Fable - Ask Electricity and Consequences

A roleplay which may be open to join but you must ask the creator first

Jonathan Burr

The Fireworks Master
Member
Messages
257
Character Biography
Link
OOC: For the purposes of this quest I’ll be playing as Emelia Bram and the various NPCs of Volta. Remember, there are real consequences for ignoring the dangers of the Lightning City!




Volta lay on the coast overlooking the sea. It was quite the strange town, in that no one had been so ambitious as to build something in such a dangerous area. The soil was stained green, but not from any plant life, as very little could grow in the salt-soaked soil. The green stains came from the gigantic copper deposit that the city sat on, that combined with the salt and water in the air to make a maelstrom of electrical activity. Lightning storms were as commonplace as sneezes in Volta, and anyone wearing metal armor or weaponry would be fried to a crisp upon getting too close to the city.

To warn against this, there were gigantic towers of wood, stone and copper wire reaching to the sky roughly half a mile from the city. These towering lightning rods were the highest thing on the plains, except perhaps the main dome of the University of Volta itself, and drew away most of the lightning from the city. Fortunately for the residents this had the dual purpose of making the area surrounding Volta prohibitively dangerous.

Various wooden signs in a dozen languages warned of the dangers of crossing the plains while wearing metal. There were booths dotting the plains’ perimeter, each manned by a single representative from the Voltese Office of Conductivity. These booths enabled visitors to wrap up their metal objects in a thick padding of wool, to be reclaimed on the way out.

One such representative was a young female elf, dressed in smartly pressed linen, and seated on a stool in her booth. She was the booth in direct line of sight to the city, and the one most in demand. Even so, it was a boring job. Anyone familiar with the city had already left their metal behind; traders and citizens returning home just regarded her with a friendly wave as they passed.

Balta sighed and put her head in her hand, leaning on her counter and gazing out across the copper-stained plains. There had to be someone out there visiting Volta who needed a weapon wrapped up or some information? She half-heartedly activated the spell atop her wooden booth, which loudly proclaimed ‘Volta’ in glass tube lettering lit by magic. It was a genius thing really. Magelight contained within glass tubing artfully curled into letters. It definitely grabbed one’s attention.

Kiros Rahnel
Kara Orin
 
Last edited:
  • Yay
Reactions: Kara Orin
Preparations would be required; and Volta necessitated a few more than most destinations would. First was the matter of conducting metal; thankfully, his staff contained little of it. Regretfully, the most important component of his arcane focus was cast from brass and bronze. So, with a makeshift kiln, Kiros had the symbol molten down and destroyed – This symbol of his reclusive deity was simply not one that could be trusted to safekeeping. It had taken a good while to cast, and the chore of making another was an arduous undertaking he did not relish having ahead of him. But such a potential reward of coin made the task worth his time; certainly enough so that a few extra hours of labour could hardly be considered off-putting.

A replacement symbol carved from oak wood was ready to replace the one of brass, and a few whacks with a mallet secured it into place. He tested it; the thing seemed to remain secure. Allowing his arcane senses to check over his own work re-affirmed him that his new staff head would be a suitable replacement. He still wielded Her power, despite the lesser materials he now worked with and Itra's warnings to use only bronze and brass for such a depiction. For a moment, he was concerned this might upset Her.


...Oh who was he kidding. She was bound to be upset, either at this or something else. Better he incur Her ire over something worthwhile, like fifteen-thousand gold, than whatever other fault She might construct this fortnight. He needed the money after all.

* * *​

From afar, he wondered what vegetation stained the horizon with such an odd shade of green until stepping on the earth, copperized and stained the odd shade it was. He easily recognized it for what it was, having become necessarily aware of copper deposits by appearance alone ever since he became a requisite bronzesmith.

It was further odd that there seemed to be no guards about when he should be quite close to the city. Only the towering lightning rods hinted at his proximity. And though he read about their purpose before he made his departure, it still struck him odd that such an enchanted structure could provide protection at all. Kiros expected there to be a ward or a spell within it; but his incantation of insight found nothing of the sort.

He’d spot one of the booths next. Convenient enough – he could at least get his bearings. He had to head to this ‘Office of conductivity’, and he had no idea where or what that even was. Aside from fifteen thousand gold of course.

“Good afternoon. Are you able to provide direction? I seek the ‘office of conductivity’” He greeted himself politely and tactfully upon approaching the booth. He eyed the magelight sign as well. It too, was not magical – yet it glowed as if it was?

Kiros maintained his polite composure however, and hid his apprehension. This and the tower was just so unnatural to see firsthand. Is the land possibly cursed? This sort of thing simply ought not be physically possible, mused the priest with ability to mend wounds and summon barriers with gestures and uttered words.

Kara Orin Jonathan Burr
 
  • Yay
Reactions: Kara Orin
Balta straightened up when someone approached the booth. Not one of their merchants or those really irritating bandits who, for some reason, were under the impression she kept a lot of money under the counter. No, this looked like a proper visitor! She tucked away her book and sat up straight, fixing her hair. She smiled at the man. Not only a visitor but a handsome one at that!

“Good afternoon!” She greeted him brightly. “The Office of Conductivity has its main headquarters inside of the city of Volta. It should be just past the main gate, on your right hand side. You can’t miss it. You can store any weapons, armor, or metal objects that are too heavy or too large to store with me. You can also exchange currency, and be fitted with a lightning rod so you don’t zap yourself.” She gestured to the city. “However before crossing the plains, I’d really advise you take advantage of our services here. We can provide wool to wrap your metal in and damper some of the conductive properties. I really encourage you to do so with anything steel, iron or silver, but especially with anything gold or copper.”

She smiled charmingly at him and tucked her hair behind one ear. “Are you here because of the murder? Mayor Bram said she was going to call for adventurers.”

Kiros Rahnel
Kara Orin
 
He had on him a small pouch of gemstones in preparation – likely more difficult to barter with, but he wasn’t sure how much faith he could really place in such a banking system. It smelled like a possible scam; and he was cautious to place his immediate trust in it for that reason. When she mentioned the currency exchange his brow shifted in thought though. Maybe it would be best to cautiously test this after all.

“Thank you much. I do have coin – perhaps it might be better to exchange this?" He replied, reflecting the polite and cheery demeanour Balta displayed in providing him direction with a warm but subtle smile. Pulling out a sizable mass of wool, he unwrapped the thing carefully to unveil what scant few coins he still had on hand until the gleaming metal of the golden coins was unveiled. Taking care to only handle the wool by the edges, he left it delicately on the counter. It was enough for minor purchases, but a far cry from a display of wealth.

"That is exactly what has brought me over - I received one of such notices she sent out." He replied, lighting up a bit at her inquiry. He had arrived with minimal information; namely how to prevent himself from being electrocuted to a crisp on arrival. Any more information would be welcome in this strange land he found himself, and he looked to her with a return of her smile with a subtle one of his own - a rarity for him.

"I had heard it was a shocking event for the city - But alas, that is all I am aware of - everything I truly know has been written down here. Could you tell me anything more, about the murder, or the city?" He asked, referring to the notice he had brought with him, while standing at rest with an arm on the counter.

Kara Orin Jonathan Burr
 
  • Yay
Reactions: Kara Orin
Kara approached Balta’s booth. She carried a sheathed sword wrapped in cloth in one hand and a jingling pouch in the other. Arms and money.

Silently, Kara waited for the person in front of her to finish his business. Yet as she listened to his exchange with Balta, Kara leaned to the side in order to get any look at his profile.

Rahnel?” Kara asked as she came to the realization. They met before after the terror at Elbion.

It being Volta, Kara wore slightly different attire than back at Elbion. Pouches with metal latches were replaced with ones that used string and wood. A belt made of rope and tied in a knot instead of a buckle. A necklace she normally wore was absent, as well as some rings.

Kiros Rahnel Jonathan Burr
 
Balta smiled and picked up the wool batt with the coins nestled inside. She counted them skillfully, then wrapped them up and settled them inside of a small wicker basket with the number “982” on it. She pulled a long string of glass coins out from her counter, and counted out the amount of gold coins.

“Each glass nel corresponds to one gold piece. Walnut wood is silver, and beechwood copper,” she explained as she untied one end of the string. Each glass coin was roughly 1/4” thick, with a square hole in the middle and intricate designs recalling the sea and storms. She counted out the amount of coins she needed and put the larger strand away, making Kiros his own. “So when you return, I’ll subtract the amount you spent in Volta, or add the amount you gained in Volta, and you’ll have that amount of gold coins to pick up. Doesn’t matter the number; the Iron Mountain Bank keeps a strict tally on the coins they make for us.”

Balta offered him his strand. “Remember not to lose your coins. If you lose or break them I can’t replace them.” She reminded him, but her face fell slightly at the mention of the murder. “I can tell you that the situation isn’t good in the city. Everyone is pointing fingers....Mr. Scalero was very beloved and looked to upset Mayor Bram’s seat. I would have voted for him. His poor wife...I can’t imagine how she’s feeling. We haven’t been told much about the murder, but I believe you’ll be heading to Emelia Bram’s office to be briefed. So when you enter Volta, head down the main road, take the first major right, and you should see signs pointing to her office.”

Balta had barely noticed the woman approach with a weapon and her coins, and offered Kiros a leather tag with the 982 number. “Well, here’s your tag. Fair warning; if you lose it we confiscate anything you held here. So keep it close.” She told him. “Memorizing the number can also help, but I need this little thing back to give you your coin.”

She straightened up and nodded to Kara. “Good morning! You two know one another?” She asked brightly, and to be honest a bit disappointed. She was just slipping into a segue to ask the handsome man out for a drink in the city. She squatted to get a wool batt big enough for the woman’s weapon, rolling her eyes to herself behind the counter. Who got cock blocked out in the middle of nowhere? Her, of course.

Balta stood up with her smile back in place and gestured for Kara to come forward. She attached a similar tag to the end of the weapon, 625, and exchanged her coins under the same number. “I would recommend you two start walking. When you live here long enough you start to recognize the signs.”
Balta told them as she offered Kara her tag. There was a pressure in the air, a scent unlike any other, like freshly minted coins and blood.

She loved doing this. Balta snapped her fingers, and lightning struck the first tower. It sounded like a giant had struck a gong. The lightning held fast for a moment, as though attempting to rip the gigantic tower free from the earth, and the ground beneath them became as warm as a hearth in winter. It dissipated, but the smell of burning metal wafted over them. In the distance, another tower was struck.

Kara Orin
Kiros Rahnel
 
  • Cthuulove
Reactions: Kiros Rahnel
“These are incredibly detailed.” Kiros remarked in response, eyeing the complex engravings on the coins she laid on the table. He had honestly been wondering what such currency would resemble, or how they might combat the threat of counterfeiting. These clearly were far from trivial to replicate, even considering the common materials they were crafted from. He nodded in understanding as she offered him his exchanged currency, taking them in hand and tucking them away safely in his robes as she continued to speak.

“Of no doubt; it must be serious for news to be carried so far away.” he replied in sombre tone, nodding at her directions with polite gratitude.

“And thank you kindly for the direction.” He added, before taking the leather tag as well, tucking it away much as he had done with the currency.

“It’s a reasonable system – and what of the city?” he inquired, leaning a bit further before his attention was caught by a familiar voice beside him. As Balta tactfully straightened up, Kiros followed suit, bringing the conversation to admittedly disappointing end. He slipped his arm off the counter before turning to Kara and stepping back to allow her access.

“Kara?” he responded, before turning to Balta once again at her inquiry.

“Yes; I’m ‘Kiros Rahnel’ – We worked together in Elbion during efforts to aid the wounded.” He responded with introduction and a concealed uncharacteristic flaunt of his prior activities in his sombre explanation. The normally humble priest didn’t care much for making mention of his good works; but this was somehow a different case in his mind.

“It just is.” he thought.

He was a bit disappointed when Balta suggested they depart immediately, though the odd scent in air reinforced the need for such a warning. Attention turned immediately as lightning stuck the first tower, and then the next. Fixated on the unusual sight, he stood tall to watch in the distance for any more with no small amazement at the sight he had just seen.

After a moment to ensure the spectacle was over he’d heed her words and depart with another subtle, uncharacteristic smile. Soon after stepping off, his demeanour would return to it’s normal stoic state.

Kara Orin Jonathan Burr
 
Last edited:
Kiros Rahnel confirmed his identity. Kara replied to Balta's question with a flat, “Yes.

Then turning to Kiros, Kara rather simply told him, “Good to see you.

Kara exchanged her weapon and money for the tag and glass currency.

Thank you,” Kara told Balta.

Lightning then struck a tower in the distance. Kara looked up – the light of the arcs reflecting from her eyes. Her reaction appeared muted compared to Kiros’s initial one. She did not really even give Balta a look for her little trick with the snap.

Kara began to move toward the city proper. If Kiros followed or stuck close, Kara would ask, “What brought you to Volta?

Jonathan Burr
 
Balta watched them go, and settled back in her chair. Oh well. At least she could say she had been the first to greet the adventurers. She picked her book back up, and listened to the storm gathering outside.

The plains were a good half mile from the city, and completely desolate. Occasionally one saw the corpse of a twisted tree that had dared get too tall, or the melted armor of a bandit who really hadn’t gotten the message about how conductive the field was. The city, likewise, had no gates. Only an archway leading into a bustling metropolis.

The Office of Conductivity was a beautiful building of wood and glass to their immediate right. The cobblestone streets were clear of refuse, thanks to people who seemed to have the singular employment of picking up trash. Shops of all kinds were displayed with swinging wooden signs, everything from wineries to spice shops and libraries. Magic factored in to how these shops were advertised; the taverns had illusions of beer flowing freely from a tap onto the street below, where they dissolved into cheery little sparks. The book stores had been enchanted with little paper birds that flew around passersby to lure them in.

The busiest shoppe by far was the Sugarcane. Proclaimed in curling pink glass letters that shimmered like the sugar crystals they were named after, the sweet shoppe had a line down the street. Through the windows, candy sticks could be seen contained in hurricane glasses taller than a ship was long. Workers inside threw lumps of soft candy over wooden hooks to stretch out silken ribbons. The front window boasted a woodland scene of spun sugar, complete with chocolate elk that nibbled delicately at marzipan bushes.

Treats weren’t the only thing on offer. A woman pushed a cart down the street, with a painted depiction of noodles on its side. The scents of green onions, grilled chicken, and rich broth followed her like a perfume. If one stopped and gave her a few beechwood coins, she would whip out a black glass ladle and spoon up a generous serving of her soup into a waiting wooden bowl. Open air restaurants were everywhere. A man could simply step off the street, pull up a stool, and order.

Even after rain began cascading down...the people of Volta had a solution. The guards stepped to wooden poles lining the streets, and touched a rune. Huge sheets of canvas unfurled across the roads, sheltering the busy streets. The rain produced colors as it struck the fabric, showering the city in rainbow...but not wet.

Kara Orin
Kiros Rahnel
 
“And you as well.” He replied with a tactful but friendly nod to Kara at the counter, before he too began the trek from the outpost to the city proper. He walked with his staff tucked in an arm and carried horizontally so as not to tempt the random arcs of lighting he had been warned about. It appeared different than at Elbion and was notably completely wooden in construction, wisely so for the trip. Aside from that he appeared exactly the same as he always had; in robes of linen and boots of leather. Burdensome religious requirements for attire had made that part of preparation easy, at least.

“I’ve arrived as response to a notice in search of investigators – as result of a high profile murder within the walls.” He turned his head to respond to her inquiry, patting the slip of paper just barely visible out of the pocket in reference to it.

“Has that brought you here as well; or do you arrive on matters unrelated?”
He inquired in turn. Eyeing the fate of the tree and the electrocuted stranger, he simply continued on. By this point he hardly needed any further warning.

The city was unique, though from his research before his travels he’d expected nothing less. He looked stoic as ever, with the occasional turn of his head left or right at the sights while he continued down towards the office of Conductivity. Noting the start of rainfall gave him cause to pick up his pace in an effort to stay dry; but the rapid deployment of rain cover ended his need to do so – a small relief.

Kara Orin
 
  • Yay
Reactions: Kara Orin
I’m here for the same reasons,” Kara confessed to Kiros Rahnel as she eyed the terrain that surrounded them.

Wearing a gray cloak, Kara lifted the hood above her head in response to the rain.

How did your priestly duties bring you here?” Kara asked as the melted corpse of the bandit passed her gaze.

Kara and even Kiros seemed to want to reach the city proper sooner than later. Once within the city, Kara looked about for street signs and directions to the Office of Conductivity.

Beyond the oddities in architecture and aesthetics, the atmosphere that surrounded the pair appeared similar to other major cities. Shops, food carts, bustling citizens, and more. The reliance on runes exceeded that of Elbion’s, though.

Kara would not stop for any of the food or treats – at least not now. Though she would stop if Kiros did, and would slow her pace if her question drew out a longer conversation.

Kiros Rahnel Jonathan Burr
 
  • Nervous
Reactions: Kiros Rahnel
The Office of Conductivity was to their immediate right, not too far down the road. It was quite the obvious building, boasting large signs and huge glass windows. The rich dark wood made it one of the oldest buildings in Volta, and the interior looked like a gigantic ballroom. The floor was smooth marble, with a central design of swirling lightning bolts in gold marble.

There were seven sweeping desks arranged around the room, each with an attendant. They wrote quietly, logging different pieces from visitors and exchanging currency for traders. They lifted their heads and smiled politely. Each was wearing white linen shirts and either skirts or tailored pants, sharp and clean. Occasionally one of the attendants would rise and pour tea for themselves, heading back to their desks for work.

If the adventurers moved down the street instead of entering the Office of Conductivity, the Mayor’s Office wasn’t far. There were black street signs that had indications in three languages: Common, Elvish and Dwarvish. It reflected the multicultural nature of the city. There were races of all stripes here, from trolls to humans, and all had their own shops, street names, and different accommodations. There were nested doors on many of the official buildings: the smallest size for dwarves and halflings was nested inside of a normal door, which in turn was nested into the largest size for orcs and trolls.

The Mayor’s Office was an intimidating construction of black painted wood. An oval-shaped glass sunroom was forefront, with sweeping emerald green doors welcoming visitors. There were two Devourers sitting on either side of the walkway, black males with curving tusks. They were collared, waiting to guard the Mayor against invaders. Given how her opponent had been brutally murdered, it came as a surprise to none of the Voltese citizens.

Kiros Rahnel
Kara Orin
 
Last edited:
  • Yay
Reactions: Kiros Rahnel
Kara confirmed his guess that she was here for the same cause as he, and gave an unseen nod in response. She had a level head about her that far belied her youth; more than most adventurers he’d encountered since the destruction of Elbion left him an unemployed wanderer. She could pose stiff competition to the reward. Perhaps they could split the pay should they earn it – and should he prove useful in the investigation. He didn’t much care for asking for charity as he saw it; that was a quality of Remus.

How did your priestly duties bring you here?

Priestly duties?

“Oh right, she must think I’m with the main Annunakite clergy.”

Undoubtedly because that’s what he told everyone back at Elbion. Further, he’s wearing the same robes he wore then– a requirement for effectively wielding his magic. A terrible choice of attire in his mind for exactly this sort of reason. But convinced as he was, his deity Itra was not. Thus he was clad in ceremonial linen; awkwardly so, as Kara had caught him before he could change into more covert attire. Not that there was much point in doing so now.

Coming clean wasn't an option on the table; he wasn’t about to tell her he was a heretic. At the same time, Kara seemed too wise for one of the usual excuses he had at the ready. And to keep quiet would arouse suspicion. He would have to fabricate a reason, something his new path was uncomfortably granting him increasing experience in. By now he knew the backbone of a good lie; keep it short, and keep it uncomfortable.

“I was placed under reprimand for my tardy return. I've a fine to pay." He spoke the statement of outright fiction with a genuine tone of abashment. It wasn't fully dishonest, he was in trouble with the church, simply far, far more so than his required lie implied. As close to the truth as he could speak, the excuse should hold water. Provided she made no further inquiry about his travelling attire and knew nothing of theological Annunaki protocol.

Too concerned with the web of lies he felt compelled to prepare, the aroma of food tempted him not. Kara seemed content to head straight to the office, and Kiros followed suit. Though given the topic he took care not to do so in a great suspicious hurry.

Should she question him further, his pace would slow to give reply. If Kara held nothing further and entered the building, he would be satisfied to simply do so as well.

Kara Orin
 
Oh, a shame,” was Kara’s immediate reaction to the lie Kiros Rahnel spun.

Kara then turned to Kiros to say, “You must be confident in solving this, though. To journey here instead of healing others to pay a simple fine for tardiness.

After looking at Kiros long enough to read his initial reaction, Kara returned her gaze to the road. She continued to move to the Office of Conductivity – any trip to the Mayor’s Office would be for later.

Upon entering, Kara pulled down her hood and looked about. She approached the closest desk with an unoccupied attendant. She procured the notice and placed it on the attendant’s desk – following the instructions to the letter.

I’m here for the investigation,” Kara told the attendant.

Jonathan Burr
 
  • Yay
Reactions: Kiros Rahnel
The attendant bowed to them both with a wide smile. “Welcome to Volta, the City of Lightning! We are most disturbed by the murder and are very grateful that you’ve arrived. I’m sure the Mayor will be happy to meet with you, but I am sure you are tired. I’ve been instructed to discharge you, then take you to your accommodations.” She said brightly. She took the notice and poured a little bit of wax over it, stamping it with the official seal. “This will act as your signet, so please keep the notice and stamp on you. You should be able to interview anyone you please under the direct authority of the Mayor.”

She held out her hand for Kiros’ and stamped his as well. She pulled out a pair of keys, dangling from leather fobs. They were spun glass, works of art that depicted ships at sea struck by shimmering gold glass lightning. Blushes of blue buoyed the ship against the lightning assault, a storming sea. “They look delicate, but our Transmuters have made them hard as iron.” the attendant lifted one of the impossibly delicate keys, and dropped it on the floor. Instead of shattering to powder, the key simply lay there.

The attendant picked it up, and smiled to them both. “Come with me. You’ll be staying with Miss Julie Mul, the head confectionaress at the Sugarcane. She owns apartments all over the city, so don’t worry. Your suites are well-equipped.” She said brightly. “It seems you didn’t step across the fields wearing any metal I can see, so you should be safe to walk the city. If you notice your hair rising on your neck, please visit the Office of Conductivity to be discharged before you attract the lightning. We have rods of iron to appease the storms, but they don’t always strike them.”

The attendant waved for them to follow her out of the office and down the street a ways, into a narrow side street. “If you need companionship, Electric Dreams is down the road. They serve all races, creeds and preferences. I recommend the Chipper Ship for dinner; they have very good shark soup.” The attendant told them, and stepped up onto a stoop.

The brownstone in front of them was narrow, but tall. “Miss?” She offered her key. “You get the seaward apartment, with lovely views of our ocean. You’re expected at the Mayor’s office at daybreak. Please enjoy; a bath has already been drawn for you. Sir, your apartment is next door. The same appointment applies; sharp. If you need to wonder whether you’re late, you probably are. Mayor Bram is very punctual.”

“My name is Roxanna, and if you need anything further call at the office by name.” The elf bowed. “The murder scene is on the corner of Deus and Xihuatl streets, just beyond a glassblowing factory. It has been left intact for you, sans the body of course. That can be observed at Seaful Sleep down on Quoll street. Have a good evening.”

Each apartment was equipped with two levels. On the first, a kitchen stocked with dry goods and a warm hearth, and a small sitting room with a couch. The second floor had a bathing room, and a large bedroom with a fluffy feather bed. The sheets had been freshly laundered and turned down, and there were sprigs of lavender on each pillow.

Kiros Rahnel
Kara Orin
 
He nodded silently at her response, content that the ruse was bought. Shame though, was not something the regretful priest needed to feign.

There was further inquiry however - one that would merit an honest response. He felt quite prepared for the role, despite any lack of prior detective work. Resolving mysteries had been a staple of many an inane holy quest Itra had given without guidance, direction or at times even objective. He had obtained proficient medical knowledge; a requirement to wield Her limited and awkward powers of healing. None of these were suitable answers however, all involving a reclusive goddess who must not be named.

"As if I'd even want to inflict her upon others."

Just as well; as preparedness was not confidence - these factors merely considered him to give the role an attempt. The true lure was the money; far more than he normally gained through healing. Healing sustained him on his travels, but this was a lot of money to be earned at once. It certainly paled in comparison to his income at Elbion; his station at there was quite lucrative for a time when it still stood.

"I feel suited to the task. It is also a great deal of coin, far more than healing would provide. Customers are not always wealthy now that I've lost my post among Elbion's nobles." He responded to Kara. It felt better to not have to lie this time.

He looked to the attendant with a tactful nod in response, listening on as she spoke of the murder, the mayor and accommodations. Handing over his notice to be sealed, he was grateful that he would get so see the accommodations soon. The opportunity to set aside his robes for less noticeable clothing he carried in his pack would be a welcome one.

"No, I was warned about carrying such." was his response. The warning was odd, but so much else was about this place that he needed very little encouragement to heed it. At least those hairs would be present on his neck, given his head was unshaven unlike most others of Annunaki priesthood.

He followed along, taking a look around the street as the attendant served as a guide. A brothel, and a restaurant. He was oddly curious how shark soup might taste, now that he was aware of the dish.

"Thank you for your guidance, Roxanna." he replied, taking his key after a tactful return of her bow before she departed from them, making his way to his quarters shortly thereafter. He didn't need much time to settle in, stowing his belongings away before taking a hasty bath. As planned, he opted to change into the less conspicuous combination of tunic and trousers before departing.

Roxanne had mentioned that there was both a body and a murder scene to view. With the signet granting him authority to investigate, he could get started right away at either of the two locations. He mused that it might be best to start with the scene. After locking up his quarters, Kiros promptly began to make his way to the corner of Deus and Xihuatl.

Kara Orin
 
Last edited:
The Murder Scene

B027EA3A-64E6-406C-BB4C-9906A3A0520E.jpeg_________________________________

The corner of Deus and Xihuatl looked as though it could be quite gay in the daylight. Large marble buildings several stories in height loomed over the cobblestone streets. There were a few advertisements in the elegant glass tubing and magelight combination that Volta was known for, and magelight lamps lit the streets. It was here that Kiros would see a few of the secrets Volta had earning its light. Mages had been specifically employed to wander the streets at night, pouring their magic into the lamps and lights.

Here, a loud set of tubing advertising tobacco was beginning to fade and blink as the magic wore dry. A mage had but to set up a ladder and touch the tubing, and amber light blazed forth. There were maybe two or three mages patrolling this particular street at all times, repairing the lamps that enabled Volta’s night life.

It seemed the streets here were in a daze of perpetual twilight, delicately procured by the black-clad mages. Their robes all looked the same; black and with the seal of the city on their arms and between their shoulder blades. Likewise, each man and woman had a number emblazoned in yellow silk ribbon around his or her forearm, identifying which particular mage lit what streets.

Tonight the scene was quiet. The body had clearly been moved but the blood had not. It had dried and clung to the cobblestones, outlining a man who had died face down in the street. Two guards had roped off the area in loud yellow rope, and stood quietly to prevent curious onlookers.

“Good evening sir,” one of the guards greeted Kiros. They were wearing leather armor, reinforced with either glass plate or studding, and wore armbands similar to that of the lighting mages. “I’m sorry, but this area is off limits to the public. If the sight distresses you, please feel free to complain to the City Oversight Committee. However, I will say this is necessary to find exactly what happened, and the body has been treated with dignity and respect.”

The scene, upon closer inspection, was sure to surprise. The marble was blackened all around where the body had lay, and splashed up the wall. The soot had been disturbed but not cleaned, and there were footprints leading both to and away from the blood splatter.

Kiros Rahnel

OOC: Kiros, depending on what you examine, I will provide detailed clues via DM. Happy hunting!
 
  • Thoughtful
Reactions: Kiros Rahnel
He travelled at a steady pace with attention constantly stolen by the bright coloured lights adorning the street; far more striking under the dark veil of night than they'd been during the day. Glowing signs scattered throughout the city beckoned him to buy varied wares from the shops beneath their bright and enthusiastic displays. None had managed to pilfer more than a brief instant of the strolling priest’s attention, until he caught sight of one belonging to a tobacconist. The advertisement persuaded him to pull his his pipe from his pocket and have a smoke as he continued; not that he needed much encouragement for the activity.

The ritual that followed would keep his attention a moment longer, his pace slowing some to observe the dark-robed figures approaching the dimmed flickering in its own struggle to stay alight. Inhaling a lungful from his pipe, Kiros watched with curiosity as they climbed a ladder and rejuvenated the fading luminosity from the sign with a touch. Strange that his incantation of insight had revealed no magic back at the outpost; but perhaps there was another mechanism at work besides simple enchantment. Or perhaps his less-than-reliable spell had simply failed to gleam anything meaningful; a possibility he wouldn’t discount.

Having sated his interest in the event, he continued on towards his destination. Upon arriving at the intersection the scene would be clear before him, marked off by barrier of bright yellow rope reinforced by the accompaniment of guards present. After expelling the ash from his pipe, he tucked it back away before making his approach.

“Good evening.”
came his tactful response to their greeting, noting the same symbol on their garb as he saw on the robes of the mages prior.

“Concerns and security appreciated - but I arrive as investigator rather than concerned citizen.” He responded, fetching his signet from his pocket and holding it in display to both as proof of his words.

“I shall regard the deceased with but dignity and respect; naught anything less.” he added in polite response. Once the two had moved aside he carefully approached the scene of the murder, eyes scanning the marble floor marred with blood and soot. Noteworthy that the latter appeared distributed where the body had not. Giving a brief survey of the outline with the thought in mind, his attention then turned to the footprints leading to and away from the dried blood staining the ground.

Well, therein seemed his first possible clue. The size and shape of the tread would be prudent to remember; he continued to study them and the blood closely for any further details that might be determined.

Jonathan Burr
 
  • Smug
Reactions: Jonathan Burr
The guards stood aside so that Kiros could get a good look. The blood smears were still wet, but that may have had to do with the high humidity of the area. Volta was a wet and humid place near the sea, which wouldn’t have done much for blood drying even with a few days without rain. The blood was sludgy and old, with a rotten meat smell beginning to rise from the cobblestones. At least a week.

The burn marks around the blood were deep, but separated. The blood hadn’t been cooked from the supposed lightning strike, nor did the scorch marks touch the bloody outline of the body. Indeed there were some places that looked odd, as though the burn marks spiraled out from three points rather than one.

“What do you see, sir? The bloody footprints lead to a nearby alleyway, just there. Unfortunately they disappear.” The guard pointed.

If Kiros went into the Alleyway, the guard spoke the truth. The footprints stopped just next to a large garbage bin out there for the benefit of those who used the alleyway, but vanished after that point. The alleyway’s floor seemed designed to gather and dispense of rainwater, with deep gutters running along the centers of them. Doubtless any further clues had been washed away by the rain.

Kiros Rahnel
 
  • Thoughtful
Reactions: Kiros Rahnel
He took the time to study the stains of blood in depth; something the priest understood in more depth than electrical effect. The blood had not dried, but neither were the stains fresh either as he could tell from the sludgy state. And as he had suspected from afar, the blood itself was completely uncharred, but that the blood did not flow over or touch the scorch marks was a further oddity. Kiros made sure to take note of this and what it might imply for the sequence of events involved.

“But blood and soot; in keeping with what was reported.” He responded plainly but politely in response to the guards inquiry; he wasn't about to speak of mere suspicions aloud.

“Ah yes, I see.” he added, returning to his feet to follow along the path the guard had pointed out. He continued along the trail until he hit the alley where the bloody footprints came to stop – just as the guard had stated. Rain seemed to wash away all other signs here, leaving the area bereft of further clues. Kiros opened the bin laying beside the trail’s end and peered in, examining the contents for any further clues that might tell him more now that the trail did not.

He gazed into the alley soon after as if in thought, pondering the possibilities the information he’d gathered so far might hint at. He treaded a bit further down the alleyway, albeit not far; giving only a cursory survey to confirm there was no further obvious sign within.

Upon investigation, the hour was likely growing late and the time to return to his quarters would be soon. Upon bidding the guards at the scene of the crime farewell, Kiros made departure back towards his apartment while musing over what he had learned.

Jonathan Burr
 
The bin was empty. One of the guards cautiously followed Kiros, clearing his throat. “That’s where we found the knife, sir. The metal knife the victim was stabbed with. He was coming back from a meeting with Mayor Bram... we interviewed everyone at the cafe, but they said it was a quiet and polite conversation. Nothing out of the ordinary.” The guard frowned and shook his head. “This seems to be a shortcut home. His wife reported him missing in the morning and we found him here when the glassblowing studio came to take out the trash.”

He bit his lip and looked at Kiros. “This doesn’t bode well, sir. No one has been killed with metal instruments in years. We rarely have murders and when we do, it’s not this ugly. Definitely not of a distinguished citizen. The streets are safe here.” He sounded worried. “I hope you catch him soon sir. We’ll keep the crime scene up for a few days if you wish to re visit it, but the glassblowing studio has requested we clean up the area. We’re frightening people away.”

When Kiros went back to the apartment, it wasn’t unoccupied. A small, mousy-looking woman was seated in the small sitting area next to the bed, smoking a cigarette. Her hair was deep brown, and her green eyes furrowed in worry. Slightly pointed ears and slight stature indicated a possibility of mixed heritage; a common sight in a city where intermarriage was legal. She’d made use of the bar tucked away in the corner to pour herself a tumbler of something, but so far the liquor was sweating and untouched. She rose when Kiros entered, bowing at the waist.

“I’m sorry to burst in on you like this, Master Rahnel. My name is Callie Scalero, wife of Joss Scalero, the man who was murdered.” She introduced herself. “The walls have ears in Volta, I was wondering if we might go somewhere and speak privately? I want to know what you’ve learned...and tell you what I know. My husband wasn’t an evil man, Master Rahnel. He only sought to improve Volta for the better; he’s wanted nothing else his entire life. I don’t know who would want to do something this brutal to him.”

Kiros Rahnel
 
  • Popcorn
Reactions: Kiros Rahnel
“I see...Of interest they made minimal attempt to hide the act.” He mused aloud, listening intently at the information the guard spoke of. He had expected the search for potential clues to be more trying than it was. Given the ease with which he did implied that the murderer was either careless, or attempting to frame the crime upon another. All was further background to the event he was investigating; given that what the guard spoke of was true. Kiros had little reason to doubt him; but by the nature of investigation, all ought to be verified.

“Indeed and understood – I can tell the event had distraught the community. My gratitude for your information and diligence.” He replied respectfully to the guard before making his departure.

* * *​

Kiros returned to his quarters, eager to get some needed rest before the next day’s meeting; the sight of another figure already seated beside his bed caused him to straighten his posture in dismay and shock.

“Who are you? How did you get in?”
He asked after a tense pause, soon learning that he was speaking with the widow of the crime’s victim. As offended as he was about the intrusion upon his personal space, he at least held enough tact to withhold words of anger from the recently bereaved. He listened well, though her words hardly seemed to ease his bothered state. A request for his knowledge and an offer for hers; all upon the condition that he speak with her elsewhere, alone. As meek as she appeared – she had still broken into his chambers unannounced.

“Well, I shall find out who. But the hour grows late; I trust the oceanside will be suitable.”
he replied in state of continued unease, and little trust for the stranger who had surprised him in his room. Still, she offered potential information, albeit on conditions he disliked. He was prepared to offer a pad and quill should she insist on discussion elsewhere. Though under no circumstances was he about to roam to unknown destination in an unfamiliar city; cautious as he was about allowing curiosity to become recklessness. He also prepared what information he would divulge with her, if any. This was an investigation, and he felt that leaking clues to someone outside of it would be improper – and potentially detrimental.

Jonathan Burr
 
“Please, I was a locksmith’s daughter and a bit of a sneak thief in my time.” Callie said in wry amusement, standing. “You needn’t look so surprised. You’re investigating the murder of my husband. It’s only natural I would seek you out...forgive the late hour. I know you’re probably tired.” He suggested the oceanside, and she nodded in agreement. The sound of the water and dock workers wandering around late at night would mask their conversation.

She brushed off imaginary dirt from her dress, smoothing it, and approached him to take his arm.

The docks weren’t the quietest late at night. They were only a few blocks from where Kiros’ apartment lay; he could probably hear the din if he strained his ears the next night. The lightning catchers were constantly checking their ships and sails; unique constructions with copper wire imbedded into raw rubber coatings. Lightning would strike a ship, light up the net of copper, and be directed down into canisters. Mages studied lightning, sold lightning, and used lightning. It was, after all, a tremendous source of heat and light.

Other ships dredged ice with the assistance of mages, bringing up cold, dark seawater and using it to freeze fresh. They could also isolate salt and produce water for the city, making it a valuable asset to Volta.

Consequently, men on the docks were always working. If there wasn’t one shift performing nightly checks, there was drinking, games, and checking the weather for the next good storm. If lightning patterned the sky...they had to be prepared to sail into the black.

“I’m sorry for the secrecy, but my home is being watched.” Callie told him gently, steering him down to the beach. Fewer ears bored of dice. “Three times this week I’ve had things delivered. It seems silly but...when my pantry is empty food just shows up. If I make a comment about flowers, a basket arrives. My friends all refuse to speak to me, giving me ‘space’. Someone is trying to keep me in my home, Master Rahnel, and for what?”

Callie sighed and shook her head a bit. “Joss was a good man, but he pushed very hard against many of Mayor Bram’s laws. He thought we should share some of our secrets across Arethil, to better everyone’s lives.” She said. “It was popular with some in the University, not so much with the traders who rely on those secrets. Definitely not with Mayor Bram. I think this is more than just killing a man for his purse. I think this was planned. I think someone lured him through that alleyway, and butchered him in cold blood. Someone able to hide a knife, and not use just a glass knife like the Voltese would.”

Kiros Rahnel
 
  • Thoughtful
Reactions: Kiros Rahnel
Tempted to correct her in how her actions were truly received, Kiros relented, seeing little point. With a continued glare, he listened to her words; the intrusion of his space seemingly a source of amusement to her. Breaking and entering the quarters of another was apparently considered more a prank than a threat among the Voltese. Given the quaint safety provided by the city, it seemed potentially fitting; even the guard had mentioned the low rate of crime in passing conversation. Taking the transgression so lightly didn’t come easily to the Kaliti priest. The concept of innocently breaking in made little sense to him. Had such an event taken place back in his homeland, immediate violence against assumed assailant would’ve been his response; the lands of Amol-Kalit provided security only to those who could provide it for themselves.

But here there were guards present, and murder was a rare occurrence. Rare enough tho warrant outsourcing the investigation to him, as far as he figured. Confrontational mistrust was eroded somewhat by her acquiescence to his suggestion of meeting by the ocean side. The rolling waves of the waters would drown out their late night conversation he figured, and the open area would quell the concerns for ambush the woman’s surprise visit had implanted in his mind.

“Don’t do that to a foreigner. We don’t always assume intentions as innocent as you Voltese might.” He warned in blunt tone, hiding his ire with struggle to give her benefit of doubt.

As she spoke of her experiences, he couldn’t help but raise an eyebrow. She spoke of food delivered to her house and implication that others maintain observation over it; her reaction absent of the fury he felt at her the intrusion. He could only further confirm his musing that things were very different here in Volta.

“You believe you’re considered suspect?” He shot back candidly after she spoke her piece; abruptly pausing his speech again once she continued on about Joss and his political involvement; implicating a possible motive out of it.

“Or you suspect another?”
He paused. For a moment he was disarmed from his confrontational demeanour as he weighed the words the woman had spoke.

“Clearly when the victim is so high profile, assassination is assumed. Robbery is possible, but even the most dimwitted thug knows better than to confront someone of such notoriety. Nor can you openly assassinate in Volta; giving cause to make the act to appear to be something it is not.” he spoke. That laws were actually enforced here made matters quite a bit different than they had been back home.

“It is reasonable; I hardly expected to travel such distance for a simple investigation. But surely you didn’t go though the trouble of breaking into my private living quarters simply to suggest a politician’s murder may be politically motivated, no?” He posed her the question. Partly to confirm what she had implied, and partly to see what further information she might yield. While she seemed more trustworthy than she had in his prior moment of fright, Kiros remained a man cautious by nature.

Jonathan Burr