Session 7

As we were heading to the Lighthouse, we saw smoke rising in the southeast. It was coming from somewhere within the city. But as we considered investigating, we thought it might be better to stay out of the way. Besides, given everything else going on, a fire might have been a distraction by the thieves’ guild. We decided to be about our patrol and set out for the lighthouse.

We were allowed up for a look about from the rooftop but also wanted to speak to the keeper of the guard. Maelz filled his canteen up with some dirt before we headed up to the landing to meet the keeper. After a few min the keeper showed up on his work and we asked if we could take a look at the fire. He denied our request for all of us to go up and have a look about but ‘invited’ Suliman to come up with him, have a look, and help carry the oil. Suliman joined him, and when he had an opportunity, got a good look down at the town with the Keepers spyglass. He returned to inform us that a riot was occurring! The docks have activity, but not anything suspicious. However, near the fire was a mob with what looked like torches and pitchforks! We considered proceeding to the riot but also taking this opportunity to raid the thief’s guild for more information. Ultimately, we decided to raid Special K’s office at the thieves guild and see what we could discern.

We passed some responders from the fire and riot, but few people were out and about. Knot went about to scout and found a few guards waiting. 2 people in the main entry, and 2 more inside + the barkeep. We knocked at the door when asked for a passphrase; however, we got the door slammed shut on us. “The moon wains, but the sun shines” Xanie reminded him. The slat opened, with a sigh from inside, then the door opened. Aren went in like a mouse but the rest of us went right on in. For some reason, no one cared that we were all in guard uniforms. Special K was NOT happy to see Knot. After he scurried back, we picked him up and got out. At last, he showed a cipher he’d acquired. Xanie and the others puzzled out something about the code being backward, changed or otherwise cleverly disguised and that it said:

“Your valued service will be rewarded, K. Once you've started the fires in Lowdocks, make sure you take care of the guards that come to fight it. We need to draw the largest possible response away from High Dock and the city proper. The fleet will move in once we see the smoke, so you have 1 chance to do this right. Do not disappoint me. C.”

We summoned 8 magical horses and rode for the general quickly. Apparently, the fire was a successful distraction – now we needed reinforcements. Typical Chultish behavior. We tried to convince the guardsmen at the bridge, but he was unbelieving. We raced past to the barracks. Bells began to ring.

At the barracks, the state of things was chaotic and confusing but we found the General barking orders outside. “I hope these troops are going to High Dock!” Suliman said. We informed him of the threat and that it was very real! He shouted, “seal off the bridge, focus on the defense of the city immediately!” He gave us our last chance to get out of the city, we wanted to unleash our savagery against the thieves. At last, we were about to get our chance to fight! When we got to the front, we saw a mighty fleet incoming that would be landing with the first light of dawn.