In our pursuit of the truth, we found ourselves once again at The Rusty Lute, where an unexpected encounter with Captain Kip presented an opportunity to extract further information. Jarev and I sought to glean insights from him as he sipped his drink, and although he appeared resigned, his dissatisfaction with the magistrate’s governance was apparent.
In a moment of impassioned frustration, I implored Captain Kip to demonstrate compassion for the people and address the abuse of power and the distressing sight of bodies hanging in the streets. To my dismay, his response was dismissive, a cold retort of “I’m not paid enough to care.” Overwhelmed by emotion, I lost my composure, pouring my drink over him and denouncing him as a hollow figure. While I regret my impulsive action, I stand by the words I spoke.
Kip reacted swiftly, drawing his Beccian Officer sword and inflicting a grievous wound upon my chest. The necrotic magic that permeated the blade prevented immediate healing, and thus left a permanent scar across my chest. This wasn’t the first instance of me going too far and upsetting those in power, and it won’t be the last. However, what he did next did surprise me: he followed this act of violence by tending to my injury, though the gesture did little to assuage the bitterness that now exists between us. Raymond’s attempts at reconciliation seemed to ease the tension momentarily, but it is unlikely that Captain Kip and I will ever see eye-to-eye.
After Kip’s departure, I turned to the guidance of “Augury” once more, inquiring whether we should continue working alongside him in the future. The divination revealed a result of Weal, signifying that I must endeavor to navigate this relationship with caution and strive to achieve favorable outcomes despite my reservations.
Then, I repaired my clothing and the party subsequently resolved to investigate the Star and Moon Trading Company. Jarev and Kal, disguised as members of the “BIS Secret Police,” infiltrated the grand marble building. Subsequent communication relayed the details of their findings to me.
It appears that both the city and the company are involved in a project known as “Fortuna.” This endeavor involves the transportation of potent ground-up crystals and artifacts into the city, specifically to Dock 9 of the port. The crystals, which possess the capacity to amplify magical energy, are sourced from the Fortuna mine, thus lending the project its name.
Furthermore, it has come to our attention that the genuine BIS is currently conducting an investigation into this matter, exerting substantial pressure on the Star and Moon Trading Company. A lingering sense of darkness surrounds Kal, suggesting that he may have undertaken unspeakable actions within the company premises, though the specifics elude my knowledge. I could feel a pit in my stomach grow as I looked at him, and so I kept my eyes forward on the next objective instead.
Returning once more to The Rusty Lute, I employed the clandestine language of thieves, known as thieves’ cant, a skill bestowed upon me by my patron deity Thoth. Through covert communication, I relayed a request to maintain vigilant surveillance on Dock 9, the designated location for incoming shipments related to the Fortuna project. By establishing this network of informants, I sought to ensure that we would be promptly notified of any significant developments in our ongoing investigation.
Aware of the watchful eye of the genuine Bureau of Imperial Security (BIS), we made the prudent decision to relocate to another inn within the city. The BIS’s surveillance of our activities at the Poseidon’s Pearl had become evident through the reporting of my informant network as well as another cast of “Augury,” necessitating a change in our base of operations. In our pursuit of the truth, it is imperative that we remain one step ahead of those who seek to impede our progress.
By seeking refuge in an alternative establishment, we mitigate the risk of our movements being closely monitored. Maintaining an air of secrecy and subterfuge is essential to preserving our autonomy and facilitating our investigative efforts. The veil of uncertainty surrounding our every move demands meticulous attention to detail and strategic maneuvering.
With a new vantage point from which to operate, we continue our arduous journey, steadfast in our pursuit of justice. The knowledge that the BIS has set their sights upon us only serves to intensify our resolve. As we navigate the labyrinthine web of conspiracy, we remain vigilant and prepared to adapt to the challenges that lie ahead. The shadows conceal both secrets and dangers, but armed with tenacity and determination, we press forward, our eyes fixed upon the truth that awaits our discovery.
