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***THE BLACK HAND ***
Posted: 28 Feb 2005 10:01 AM |
OOC -(( Any PvP must be DM approved and dealt with as described in PHB))
With the recent activity of the Black Hand...I felt it would help to post the ideals and goals of the organization. Keep in mind...this is all OOC...All and members have this information below and are expected to know and adhere to the following...those that have dealings in the underworld might have some knowledge of this...other than that FOIG! Members are encouraged to post thoughts, actions and questions here.
THE BEGINNING.......
Merum frowned at the wounds on the half-orc's chest... "Dem stupid Midorans..." he thought to himself... "Der gonna git what's comin to em soon enough..."
"Ya really oughta let dis 'eal for a while before I work on it, Jess." He said with a frown. "Ya really need ta git Walin, or Gene, ta look at yer chest, an' yer ankles... Yers too, Pick." He said. looking to the halfling seated next to Jessup as he lay on the table.
"Noez. Coverz it nowz, Merumz" Jessup said with a grunt.
"Right den, mate, but first tings first." Merum said, stepping away, and moving over to the bar. He gathers a few items, puts them on a tray, and heads back over to the table where Jessup lie, obviously in pain, but trying not to show it.
"I gots some bandages 'ere dat Walin leaves wit me. 'e puts some of 'is 'ealin magic into em. Der sposta 'elp me if I go 'splorin, but seems I don git out much lately. Dey'll be better used on de two of you guys." Merum takes a bandage from the tray, and wraps it around Jessup's ankle, working it so that it would support the injured joint. Taking another, he does the same to the other ankle, trying to support them the best he can.
"Yer turn now Pick, get 'em up 'ere." He said, turning to Pickston and removing another bandage from the tray. He tended his kinsman's wounds as he would tend his own, carefully and thoroughly. Finished, he poured Pickston a glass of whiskey from the bottle on the tray, and set it in front of him. Pouring two more glasses, one quite a bit larger than the other, he offered the larger one to Jessup, saying "Drink dis mate, it will 'elp ya git through dis." He raised his glass to clink Jessup's, downed his own, and set to arranging the needles and inks on the tray. "Lie back now, an' let's see what I kin do 'ere..."
Merum set to work, first pouring an essence of healing into the wounds, in the hopes that the scarring would not be too bad. As he inked his needles, and pressed the ink into Jessup's skin, he thought about his interactions with the people of Midor. He searched to find some evidence that any of them had ever been good, and failed miserably. They had even tried to deny the honor of one of their own, until that priestess broke down and decided to assist them. At least they're not totally corrupt, he thought as he worked.
Long into the night Merum worked, transforming the vandalism done upon Jessup into something else, something he knew the Midorans would come to regret, even fear, in time.
With tired eyes and tired hands, he looked at Jessup. "Yer done mate, but I dint cover it. Not all of it." Handing Jessup a hand mirror, he said "Take a look in de mirror an see."
In the mirror, Jessup saw what had been done transformed, but not erased. Merum had worked freeform, allowing his own feelings to flow into the tattoo as he worked. The cross remained, but had been changed. Around the shaft of the cross, Jessup's black skin had been highlighted into a large, fisted black hand, squeezing the shaft of the cross within it. The Vandal's sloppy, crooked work had worked to advantage, being extended now to give the illusion of the cross breaking under the strength of the hand. From the breaking point, a small highlight of blood red ink flowed down, a single drop poised to fall from the bottom of the cross.
"It shows yer strength, Jess..." Merum said, voice dropping to a low whisper... "Now go and let 'em feel it."
~~ There are many guilds in the lands….but none rival the power and influence of the Black Hand. Not just limiting itself to extortion, assassinations and black marketeering like other guilds…the Black Hand even threatens to topple local governments and magistrates. Using force, intimidation, bribery, blackmail….whatever it can…if there is a weakness the Black Hand will find it and use it. Only surfacing just recently…the Hand wasted no time in seizing control of Port Royale and its docks. With the money it makes off its so called protection fees for vessels docked in its harbors…the Hand has quickly became a very wealthy organization. With fat pockets and bloodied fists it continues to impose its will on whatever it wants….few have stood in opposition. All attempts at stopping the Hand have ended in failure….with the help of numerous allies and Port Royals loose laws as cover, the Hand has been able to avoid all that seek to end their reign of terror. The only thing for certain is that their base of operations is located somewhere in Port Royale….as far as who is in charge of this dark organization…tales of a Halfling and orc running the guild in the disguise of a shop are told in many a tavern.
With recent rumblings in Midor…many suspect the Hand is now expanding its sphere of influence. Whether this is true or not it remains to be seen…but one thing is for certain…no one or place is safe from the grip of the Black Hand. ~~
I. Requirements for membership
- Sponsorship by a standing member
- Successful completion of probation period
- Final approval from Jessup the Younger
II. Goals
- Continued control of Port Royale over all other guilds and businesses
- Eventual control of all underworld activities in all cities.
- Continued use of the Black Market to further financial standing
- Use of government plants to further the Hands goals.
- Prostitution, Bribery, Gambling, Assassinations, Blackmail, Racketeering
- Financially support those that help reach said goals
- Weakening and over-throwing the theocracy of Midor
- Start with Vidus Khain
- Disgrace, or Assassinate
III. Current standings with other guilds, alliances, religious sects, governments.
GUILDS, ALLIANCES AND RELIGIOUS SECTS
- Righteuous Swords- Hostile and Volatile...Created for the sole purpose to further Vidus's tight grasp on Midor...these pose perhaps the greatest threat to the Hand. These are the chief foot soldiers of Vidus..They enforce his will like with an iron fist...be wary of these warriors. These are no mere paladins.
- Fire Knives- Neutral-Headquarters- Unknown... The best known thieves guild in Vives. Led by a legendary, though semi-retired thief reputed to be a Midoran noble. In their peak they were the example which others sought to follow, living and thriving in the heart of Midor, a city renowned for its law and order. This came to an end rather abruptly, when the new Midoran regime assailed their HQ and drove them from Midor.
Now however rumours speak of their return. They say that the knives have returned to Midor. That they have a new base, hidden from all. And that their hatred for certain key figures in Midor will make for some interesting times ahead.
-Night Masks- *UPDATE* ELIMINATED-No longer a threat.
...Former rulers of Port Royale. Past dealings with the Night Masks have been bloody as they were overthrown in the first battle for the Port known as the "Black Blood War". They were replaced the founders of the Black Hand.....Pickston Rickticks...Jessup the Younger..and Merum Widt.
-Night Stalkers-*UPDATE* ELIMINATED-No longer a threat
.....Former ruling council of the Night Masks reunited to form this deadly new guild and in turn began the second battle for the Port. The only member of their ruling council that is known is their ambassador, an elf named Virallax. Nicknamed Breathstealer, for his favoured method of permanently slaying a foe is to cast a ritual upon them that steals their very last breath. It is said that any that he succeeds in doing this to may not be restored to life by any means for so long as he himself continues to draw breath. He is reputed to be an elf of his word, bound by strange ideals and a peculiar notion of honour. And something of a diplomat when the opportunity allows. It is said that he is loathe to kill any he has not been paid / ordered to assassinate. Seeming to abhor needless killing. And takes great pride in his work. How many other council members there may be...and what the night masks are doing / where they are based now remains the subject of great conjecture. This new breed of Masks has become the chief rival to the Black Hand. Extreme caution is advised when dealing with them.
The second battle of the Port concluded in the "Shadow War". Further of details of the battle and Virallex can be found here...The Shadow War
-The Guyvers- Good Standing- Headquarters- Port Royale....New to the Port is this group of would be treasure hunters...do not let them fool you. While they do things more peaceably. they can put up a good fight...they are led by the diminutive yet crafty Johe Jaxon....membership numbers as of now are a handful...but are growing. Of all the groups that the Hand has had dealings with the Guyvers have proven the most vauable..for now.
For further information on the Guyvers refer here...The Guyvers
-Unknown Guild- Hostile and Volatile- Little is known of this guild...save that they have tried an assassination within the Port without permission...this guild was in the disguise of Night Masks...it is possible that these were agents of Midor as the target of the assassination was one Blanche La Belle...former White Priestess of Midor. The Hand is in the process of gaining more knowledge of this unknown force....they must be dealt with soon.
-Order of the Light-Neutral- Very little is known about htis group save that they attacked the temples and realms of Naruth...slaughtering many of her followers. They are led by a man named Ray Hall. It is not yet known what position the Hand is to take in this matter. All contact with this group is to be done cautiously until more is uncoverd.
-Naruthians- Good Standing- Based out of a volcano…With recent events with the assault on the Naruthian temples by the Order of the Light, the Hand has positioned itself in good standing with the followers of the fire god. A pact for weapons has been reached.
*Visits to the Naruthian volcano must first be approved by Mister Jessup*
GOVERNMENTS AND MAGISTRATES
-Midor Government- Hostile and Volatile....All Hand members are to proceed with extreme caution when in Midor...It is no secret that the Lord-Bishop Vidus Khain would like none better than to bring the Black Hand down...he will stop at nothing to do so.
-Port Royale Government- Good Standing- The long cemented association between the Hand and Queen Aquinas dates back to the birth of the Black Hand and the Queen's romantic trysts with Merum Widt...former founding member of the Hand and proprietor of the famous Broken Mask Tavern and Inn. It was with the Queen's bidding that the Night Masks were removed from power as they began to pose a serious threat to the monarchy. The Queen in return gave secret permission for the Hand to begin operations in the Port. It is rumored that the Hand also has many plants in the Port Royale government...no doubt palms are being greased in some way.
-Buckshire Government-Neutral- The town of Buckhire has of yet drawn the eye of the Black Hand. Dealings with the town and its small government have been infrequent. Whie its trading post does bring in a fair amount of gold, it has become obvious that the city has little else to offer.
-Brandibuck Government-Neutral- The home of hin and gnome was one of the first cites to do dealings with the Hand. Merum Widt was responsible for facilitating the trade of spirtis and tabacco with the Buck. As of late Brandibuck has started to distance itself from the trade. It is clear the realize who is responsible for the items they are recieving and thus have quietly started to deal Buckshire instead.
-Maldovia–Good Standing- Recent dealings with Maldovia and the beautiful Lady Nakita have proven fruitful. While any such deals struck with the Moldavians can yield great reward….there is also great risk. Any future dealings must be brought to Mister Jessup’s attention for his approval.
*Visits to the dead city must first be approved by Mister Jessup and secondly the proper food offering must be supplied.
-Undercity-Good Standing- The infamos Undercity is the king of all black markets. Its docks have ships from all sorts of nefarious orginizations and powers. If there is an item you want and you cannot lovate it, chances are you can purchase it here. The docks are under the protection of Mister Mortifer. He is a high ranking member of the Black Hand. Crossing him means crossing Mister Jessup. He child of Syn and has proven his worth many times. His knowledge of gathering infromation from victims is legendary. It is said that he was taught his torturing techniques from the one and only Sugar Man.
IV. Personal Dealings with Guilds and Governments
- It is strictly forbidden to act of your own accord against any of the above unless defending yourself...otherwise permission is needed from Mister Jessup to act. no such blatant acts of violence will be tolerated as it could jeopardize current projects...While the Hand does tend to resort to violence and intimidation from time to time...it does not do so without serious forethought and preparation. Every action has a reaction
- Treaty of Midnight
No act or job from a guild shall be preformed on another guilds city or town without the expressed consent of the ruling guild. Failure to obtain permission will result in swift punishment.
Guilds that have said treaty with the Hand
-Fire Knives
-Guyvers
-Kenku
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Re: *** THE BLACK HAND ***
Posted: 28 Feb 2005 03:48 PM |
((Just an aside note, personally I think that what Vives lacks is player run guilds as it brings life to the world and gives a purpose to the characters and encourages RP, as demonstrated below.
That said I understood that they were not permitted. Has this changed? |
Never argue with an idiot.
They drag you down to their level
and then beat you with experience.
Akril
Quinellieth. 20th Circle of the Order of the Ring |
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Re: *** THE BLACK HAND ***
Posted: 28 Feb 2005 04:31 PM |
| ((They are frowned upon and discouraged due to many many reasons that have been posted about frequently in the past, so I won't re-iterate here and hi-jack Chief's thread)) |
- Solitaire, Wizard
- Ilyana Fiirhaart, High Priestess of Naruth |
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Re: *** THE BLACK HAND ***
Posted: 06 Mar 2005 08:45 PM |
Dolls eyes...that’s what they look like....funny really...they always look like they have something to say. They have nothing to say though...no life in them left for it. Jessup stared down at the lifeless body rubbing his chin.
"*BOOM BOOM*" the sound from behind the door shook Jessup back to what he was doing.
"HOLD ONZ!!" Jessup shouted.
With that Jessup quickly pulled out his dagger and with the skill of an artist popped both eyes out of the cold body. He gently wrapped them in a cloth he had brought down to the cellars with him. The noise from behind the door was getting louder and more aggravated. Placing the wrapped delicacy in his pouch Jessup grabbed the short stout legs of the body and dragged it over to the door. The glow of magic could be seen from underneath the door. He reached for the key around his neck and placed it into the lock. As he turned it a gust of wind blew from underneath the door. Slowly the door opened.....as it did a red glow from deep inside the dark room flickered.
"I haz zumtin fer ya Mr Grimorez." Jessup said a$ he threw the body inside the room with one hand.
As the body hit the ground a loud groan came from the red flickering. The eyeless body on the ground began to tremble and shake....white light beamed from where its eyes were. With that Jessup shut the door and locked it. After all even he had his limits. What happened behind that door not even Jessup would fathom a guess.
Some things are best left alone. |
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Re: *** THE BLACK HAND ***
Posted: 12 Mar 2005 01:03 AM |
S
……Letters….words….sentences….paragraphs…..endless…over and over..and …over….and…ov….
…….Sirus loved reading. Books, scrolls, maps, manuscripts….if it was possible to read…then Sirus wanted it. That was his passion….that and his 7 year old daughter Greta. Those were the only things he truly cared about. He used to make his home in Midor…he made a good living as a scribe to the clergy there…but after the death of his wife there he chose to come to the Port and make a fresh start. It was here in the southern side of the city that he made his home. Sirus was sort of a fish out of water there in the southern section…not really the place where you would expect to find him or raise a daughter. It was quite close to the docks, and that meant drunks, prostitutes, thieves and what not. There already was a rowdy tavern named the Cross Cutlass nearby… another was going up…one called the Broken Mask. Some Halfling named Merum had apparently come into some gold and was building his dream. Sirus had seen Merums mates…a huge orc named Jessup and another halfling..Pickles Rickerticks or something....this one had some sort of gastrointestinal problem. No matter…what is another tavern. What are three more thugs in the Port.? Sirus had survived this long…surely these three would not bother him.
It was a cold evening. Not normal in the Port. Rain yes. Cold no. Sirus had just finished tucking his daughter in when he heard a knock on his door downstairs.
“Who is that father?” Greta asked inquisitively.
“Only one way to find out my dear. But alas…you wont find out until morning!” Sirus grinned. “ Now close your eyes and go to sleep.” Sirus gave his daughter a kiss on the forehead and made his way out her room.
“Boom, boom”. Another knock. Sirus quickly made his way downstairs candle in hand until he reached the double doors to his house.
“Pippo if this is you, you had better have some good books or ill cut your pay in half!”
“Boom, boom”. Another knock.
Sirus stood looking at the doors. Staring. His eyebrows wrinkled a bit as he stood there.
“Pippo?” Sirus heard no reply.
Sirus slowly reached for his dagger which was tucked into his boot…better safe than sorry…after all this was the Port. He slowly lifted the latch to the door. As he opened it a gust of cold air pushed its way into his entryway blowing out several of the candles he had inside. He peered outside and saw nothing. Odd he thought. Off in the distance he saw Candy. She was new to the Port. Apparently working as some kind of guide in the city. Sirus shrugged and and shut the door locking it. As he turned around he saw a pair of red eyes staring at him…..Sirus gasped and took a step back running into the door.
“Wh…who..are you?” Sirus asked nervously
“Apologies Sirus…I meant not to startle you. I have sought you out for a proposition.” The figure said.
As the dark figure spoke its eyes stayed fixated on Sirus, never faltering…but the voice, the voice seemed to be coming form different directions.
“P..p…proposition? Wha…what are you talking about? Who are you?" Sirus said.
“Ahh yes...introductions.….I am….Mr. Loccard….."
….To be continued |
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Re: *** THE BLACK HAND ***
Posted: 12 Mar 2005 01:46 AM |
| ((ah, you just can't keep a good bad guy down)) |
Purpose in life: finding better ways of allowing players to kill themselves. Repeatedly.
--
"...Cause he mixes it with love
And makes the world taste good."
--
<@James42> Lawful good isn't in your vocabulary, it's on your menu.
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Re: *** THE BLACK HAND ***
Posted: 12 Mar 2005 05:57 AM |
| How did that old song go again... "He's dead, but he won't lie down..." |
Vurbag Usko - Missing
Melinne Carshall - Missing |
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Re: *** THE BLACK HAND ***
Posted: 14 Mar 2005 11:44 PM |
S I R
……Letters….words….sentences….paragraphs…..endless…over and over..and …over….and…ov….
Sirus stood staring at the shrouded man. The candles in his entryway had all blown out, only the glow from the few still lit in the main room gave any clue as to the size of the man. His eyes, his eyes however were as red as fire opals. The never blinked. Staring.
“Sirus? Did you hear me my friend?” Loccard asked
“Wha…what? Oh..yes…im sorry. Mr. Loccard yes…a pleasure to meet you sir. Im sorry, it’s just that it’s so dark in here, let me light thes….”
“NO!” Loccard grunted. Sirus gave a look of slight shock.
“Forgive me Sirus; it’s just that im in a bit of a hurry. If we could just have a seat…im sure what I have to say will interest you.” Loccard lowered his tone as he finished his sentence.
“Of course sir….please follow me into my study.” Sirus lead the way to a door that appeared to lead to the cellar of his shop. An aged wooden door swung open. Down below the dripping of water could be heard off in the distance. With a candle to guide them Sirus lead the way down the steps.
“Interesting place for a study Sirus.” Loccard observed.
“Yes.” SIrus chuckled. “I’m afraid im a bit short on space. I assure you this is all going to be renovated soon. My study however is more comfortable.”
As the two approached the entrance to the study, Sirus began to have second thoughts about this. Who was this man? More importantly, how did he know my name? What was this proposition he had to offer?
“All good questions Sirus…all of them will be answered in time.” Loccard said.
“How? How did you…” Sirus gasped. He turned to look at Mr. Loccard but as he did he realized he was not there. He was already seated in a chair in the study.
“Please Sirus, sit. All your questions will be answered.” Loccard said.
Sirus slowly enterd his study. Books were everywhere. Manuscripts, ancient scrolls. A historian would be in heaven in the study. All were treasured by Sirus. As he sat down Loccard began to tell Sirus of his proposition.
“I understand you are a collector of rare books and such Sirus. Well I have a special book for you Sirus. A very special book. A most powerful book.” Sirus listened intently to every word Loccard spoke.
Loccard pulled out what appeared to be a book wrapped in cloth. White cloth. As Loccard unwrapped the cloth from the the book. Sirus felt a tingle in his fingers. An urge. An urge to grab the book. Sweat began to form on his upper lip. He slowly licked his lips in anticipation. When Loccard had finished unwrapping the book he slowly slid it over to Sirus from him to examine.
“Now I know it doesn’t look like much…but I assure you it is more than valuable. Especially to you my friend!” Loccard grinned.
As Sirus looked down at the book he noticed it was as white as could be. With three latches on the side of the book acting as locks. Nothing on the cover…nothing on the back cover either. Nothing.
Sirus looked up. “What is it?”
Loccard leaned in closely. With a slight grin as though he were about to deliver a punch line to a joke. “It is the future Sirus. Not just any future. Your future!”
Sirus quickly looked up with a slight frown. “I see…eh…Mr. Loccard im afr…”
Loccard chuckled. “I know what you’re thinking Sirus. You think im just some kind of madman off the streets of the Port. Well I assure you im not. I also assure you that within that book lies your future. I have read it. I should know.”
A look of skepticism came over Sirus, but before he could say anything Loccard spoke again. “I can tell you are still in doubt…well then. Ill give you an example. Your daughter. Greta is it not?” Sirus slowly nodded. “Well she is about to come down here to speak with you. She is missing something of value.”
With that Sirus looked to the dooe to his study. No one was there. As he was about to turn his gaze back to Loccard he heard a soft voice.
“Father…father? Have you seen my teddy? It was Greta. Sirus opened his mouth but nothing came out. “Oh hello there sir. Greta said. Loccard did not turn. He kept his gaze on Sirus. “Hello little one. I believe what you are looking for is underneath your father’s desk.” Sirus shook his head in disbelief. He looked down and there lying at his feet was Greta’s teddy. He picked it up and handed it to Greta who by then was already smiling to herself.
“Oh thank you so much! I just can’t sleep without him. Thank you, thank you!” Greta beamed.
“Greta…off to bed now…this gentleman and I are just finishing up some business. Sirus kept looking at Loccard as he nudged his daughter on. He could hear her footsteps up above as she bolted up the stairs.
“You have my attention now Mr. Loccard. Yes indeed. Now what…do you ask in return for this book?” Sirus glanced down at the book examining it further.
As he touched it he could feel it vibrating ever so slightly as if it wanted to be opened.
“Well Sirus…it wont be cheap. What I ask is not gold in return. Why im actually after something that is quite readily available here in the Port.” Loccard was now standing over Sirus looking down at the book as well. It didn’t even faze Sirus who kept feeling the book.
“Readily available? What is it then? Sirus asked.
Silence. Nothing could be heard. Sirus looked up and Loccard was again sitting down in the chair.
“All I ask Sirus….is three souls………
To be continued…………… |
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Re: *** THE BLACK HAND ***
Posted: 21 Apr 2005 01:32 AM |
"How much ya think we gonna get for that thing mang?" Gregor asked. Mister Jessup sat back in his chair examining the glowing warm ruby. Gregor and Vic stood waiting for Mister Jessup's answer. Conn a new comer to the lands watched quietly in the distance in a chair. The little gnomes words echoed in Mister Jessup's head.
"My master will be most displeased!! He will come for it!!!" Siam had shouted as he left angirly.
Let him be angry Mister Jessup thought. This was business. Gold was owed to him. Jessup would collect one way or another. No one stiffs the Hand. No one. Dead or alive. Whis would not be the first time Mister Jessup had dealt with the servants of the dead. One thing you could always count on. Bargains could always be struck. Profitable ones. Surely some would suffer from it. That is the price one pays. But payment is what it is all about after all.
"Well?!" Gregor blurted out.
Mister Jessup looked up. "Lotz Gregorz....lotz." |
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Re: *** THE BLACK HAND ***
Posted: 30 Apr 2005 10:37 AM |
So many memories were hanging in this shop. From the inception of the tour group to the formation of the Black Hand. Jessup looked down at the painting in his hand and gave a slight smile. He rememberd that day clearly. No one had ever ventured that far into the realms of Naruth. Jessup , Pick , Wailen, and Merum...what a group..Jessup had just been complaining about hunger....in their haste to escape a group of fire giants they dropped The blank space on the wall where the painting hung looked like a hole in the wall. So the pack containing most of their rations...those that were left had quickly beeen consumed by Jessup within the hour. After all he was a growing orc. In another hour hed be sizing up Pick and Merum for a spit. Stomach growling he pressed on. Until they came across an entrance....one that seemed to have been carved by giants. As the group discussed what could be behind the gates, Jessup caught the smell of something cooking....something tasty! FOOD!!! Without any rhyme or reason Jess burst through the entrance. He was too far to hear Picks cry of "Jess ya twit wait fer us mate!!!"
As he ran on the steaming walkway the smell grew stronger. His appetite was ravanous. He could not control himself at this point. With all sense of caution gone he made his way into a massive chamber adorned with gigantic columns adorned with script that Jess had never seen before....not that he could read it even if he had seen it before. That was not what Jess cared about anyway...for as he scanned the floor a tear came to his eyes....it was as if a starving child had found the key to the candy shop.On the floor of this chamber were hundreds of steaming, charred, and yes...cooked bodies. Human, Orc, Dwarf, Halfling, Goblin....a veritable feast for the ages! Eyes widened Jess sprinted on almost slipping on the puddle of drool that had formed underneath him. Before one could whisper " Thas disgusting!" Jess was engorging himself on the cooked remains that lay. So distracted was his meal that he didnt even notice the pair of huge red eyes that stared at him atop what was perhaps the biggest pile of gold that ever was.
All of sudden Jess felt heat from behind him. Without releaseing the kobald arm he had been dining on he reached back with his other hand and felt the back of his head.....bald...bald and sizzling. with a grunt Jess shoved the kobald arm into his mouth and turned. As he looked he saw the shape of a claw so big it too him a solid minute to view the whole thing. He followed the shape of the claw to what it was attached to. With kobald hand sticking out of his mouth Jess layed his eyes on the the legendary HellFire Wyrm. "Burp!" That was the last thing Jess remembered hearing...now wheter it was from him or the Wyrm hell never know....he didnt want to know. All he remembered after that was Pick looking down at him shaking his head. Jess's clothes were completely singed off just like his hair. "Ya know Mista Jessup ya are gonna has ta control tha appetite a yers one a thes days! Itll be the death ay ye! Patience Mista Jessup..patience an control..thas wha its all about" Jessup blinked and nodded at the wise words of the Halfling.
Jess tucked the painting under his arm and took it upstairs..those two words hand served him well since the demise of his longtime friend and partner..control and patience. Those very words had solidified a deal with the Naruthians. Pick would have been proud. After all it was time for a new painting to hang. The future. |
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Re: *** THE BLACK HAND ***
Posted: 04 May 2005 07:15 AM |
| Jimmy felt the sore burn from the nape of his neck it hurt like a bugger, he had already applied four diffrent types of ointment onto it and still it hurt, Jimmy had looked using two mirrors to see what was there, just a symbol of a hand burned into his skin. He Remembered *Jessup's* words "Whatz youz doz reflectz onz mez" Jimmy smiled to himelf, now he was in a profitable organisation the -Blackhand- Jimmy rubed his hands together with excitment as he came to the door of the Cross cutlass, this was his favourite drinking hole, the kind of people he liked, not too noisey but loud enougth to have a conversation not overheard. He stepped inside and took his usual chair and sat down. Jimmy gestured to the seving girl to bring over his usual drink of ale over. Jimmy thought to himself, he had four errands he had been given one was to goto the Dwarven smithing shop to collect the ~Rent~ and there was the matter of having his morning talk with the merchants at the main square. Jimmy started to ponder which one he would do first.... |
Tom Benedict (elf cleric), Jimmy Scarlet (human ranger) Drogar Dintfin (Halfling Thief) |
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Re: *** THE BLACK HAND ***
Posted: 12 May 2005 10:11 AM |
Countless names and numbers....all debts that needed to be payed wwithin the agreed upon time..otherwise there would be penalty. The penalty was whatever Mister Jessup wanted it to be.
It could be something as light as a few cracked ribs or fresh scars on a face...to meeting Mr. Grimore.
Siam.....250,000 gold pieces....and counting. Dealing with deaders was a tricky thing. Collecting from ones master was even more dangerous. That would appear to be the only solutin to this one. That and some serious pain to be put on Siam. Jessup toyed with Siam's enchanted ruby and snorted.
Johe Jaxon.....130,000 gold pieces. Now here was a problem. Johe was as good as a friend as could be to Jessup. Though they shared different views on handling things....for the most part the end result always seemed to be the same. Problem here was that Johe was late on a payment. To top it off...he hadnt been seen in weeks. Now Jessup could easily ignore this...however..word would spread that Jess was getting soft. Words like soft to carry much weight in the underworld. Soft can get you cut. Jess would have to do soemthing about this soon.
The Hand had grown much in the past weeks...with the raiding of the Fire Knives Guildhouse there were many cut throats and scoundrels looking for work. Sorting through them was the tough part. Everyone wants to get rich.
"What do ya want me to do about Johe Mista Jessup?" Vic asked. Jessup grunted..." I putz zomeonez on it alreadiz. Zhe gon do a finez job. I wantz youz ta keepz lookin fer diz Ziam fella...Bring im ta me. I wanz im alivez. Im no gon git da pleazure a not dyin by my and!"
Vic bowed and was on his way out of the shop. Jess followed Vic in step outside...sat in his chair and waited. Tapping his finger on his staff he knew he had to get payed one way or another...and that meant getting back what he had purchased for Johe. Jessup growled.." all diz fer a paladinz!" |
ONWARD AND UPWARD! |
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Re: *** THE BLACK HAND ***
Posted: 15 May 2005 07:25 PM |
OOC all that follows is information that only a select few would know...therefore please RP accordingly.
*a note left in Jessups mailbox*
you have probably heard the rumors already, Johe was last seen in the Brandibuck area. the locals seem to think he was the last victim of whoever was behind the dissapearances of the halflings around there. however, since his dissapearance, no more have gone missing. perhaps he was more than they bargained for.
I have yet to meet with Blanche. had one meeting arranged already.. but with the trouble shes gotten herself into of late, its not suprising that she couldnt make it.
will let you know once I have been able to speak to her, if she knows any more than the authorities in Brandibuck.
Cora |
ONWARD AND UPWARD! |
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Re: *** THE BLACK HAND ***
Posted: 15 May 2005 07:34 PM |
OOC all that follows is information that only a select few would know...therefore please RP accordingly.
*As Cora wanders the streets of the Port a crow flies above her circling...then perching on her shoulder releasing a note that was wtihin its beak. With that it flutters its wings and flies off....the note reads the following....*
" Excellent work..Mister Jessup is most pleased. Our next step is to find out about this expedition...Mister Jessup will see to this personally. Prepare yourself for this expedition. There is little doubt that Mister Jessup will include you on this adventure."
*A small imprint of a black hand lies beneath the above words....* |
"I'm not closed-minded, you're just WRONG." - Bucky Katt
My characters n portraits |
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Re: *** THE BLACK HAND ***
Posted: 15 May 2005 07:36 PM |
OOC all that follows is information that only a select few would know...therefore please RP accordingly.
*message left for Mr J*
I spoke with Miss La Belle today, in Brandibuck of all places.
She was indeed the last one to see Johe.
According to her, she was looking into the disappearances of the halflings around Brandibuck and nearly lost her life to some “madman” by the name of Malakai Fenghuul, whom she suspects to be behind the disappearances. Apparently, this Fenghuul fellow left her for dead after their first encounter, and as she put it, he said it was unfortunate to do such a thing. (perhaps he truly has a thing against halflings, but not tall folk)
Second encounter, she claims she was warned by one of them ‘quicklings’ (a creation of his, she says) that someone will fall. But she proceeded anyway. She met a lady gnome in the woods, and Johe revealed himself at that time, but then quickly disappeared and that was the last she, or anyone, saw of him. And Johe was the last to disappear.
Word is there’s a possible expedition planned, or at least a meeting to try to dertermine what corse of action can be taken to find the missing Halflings. However, I DID inform Miss Labelle that if such is not the case, there is still the matter of the outstanding debt.
It was at this point in our conversation that she realized I was there representing the BH and… *something was written and then smudged out* she spoke very fondly of you.
In any case. She knows now that 130k is still owed, and that to continue to provide such valuable and helpful services, as the kind she received, to those who have need in the future, the BH cant just give money away and get nothing in return.
She asked about a dead-line. I told her none had been given, yet, as Johe may still turn up (with a little luck from Swiftfoot) But we just wanted her to be prepared in the event that things don’t turn out the way we would all like to see them.
I guess now we wait and see what this expedition (if that is what it is) turns up.
Cora |
ONWARD AND UPWARD! |
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Re: *** THE BLACK HAND ***
Posted: 15 May 2005 07:40 PM |
OOC standard disclaimer  all that follows is information that only a select few would know... therefore please RP accordingly.
*a note left for Mr J*
I went on that expedition to pay a visit to Malakai, the fella suspected of abducting all the Halflings. This mage type named Solitare, (I’m sure you know her, everyone else did) had arranged the meeting and said he was willing to talk. Sure enough, he was the one responsible.
Along the way to his tower we were greeted by a curious fellow who wished to aid us in our task, in return for a favor. I had never seen his like before, but the others called him a deamon-kin, and for this reason they were unwilling to accept his aid. (some nonsense about the mother wouldn’t approve, and the ends don’t justify the means. Complete rubbish if you ask me)
He wished us to carry a gem of sorts into the tower, claiming that it would allow his people to bypass the wards the crazy mage had put on it, and they could enter and kill him. I found the arrangement agreeable, even if the rest of the group did not (Solitare was in favor of it, as was Connavar, but the others were not) So after the vote was to refuse their help, the gem was cast into a portal.
Luckily, I conveyed my intentions to the demon fellow before he departed, and another gem was left along the path to the tower. I took the gem into the tower and deposited it out of sight while the others talked. Malakai raved on about transforming the halflings he had abducted into these mindless, though powerful followers, and how they were happier now.. as was expected, he was a complete loony. He claimed that he had Johe as his “guest”, and that he was unharmed. He also said that as long as the “things” he created were left alone to mature, (something about the ritual becoming permanent within the month) then Johe would be returned.
And sure enough, at that point, when the conversation was pretty much at a stalemate… the demons apparently attacked, and the lunatic was apparently killed. His body dissapeared, however, so there is no confirmation.
Now that he is out of the way, Solitare said she would look into what needs to be done to stop the maturation process of his… well, children I guess you could call em.
And I think that with the crazy mage out of the way, it shouldn’t be to hard to find Johe. They will be looking into how to go about finding him also.
I think I took the best course of action possible, and while there is a chance that Johe will not be found, I don’t feel that it will come to that, and knowing his reputation and all, I think he may even find a way out himself.
But no one knows it was me who brought the gem into the tower, and so if Johe is never found (we shall all truly miss him if that is the case) then Miss La Belle wont be able to point the finger and say that it was because of the BH that he was lost, and therefore she will be obligated to pay the loan back. (something that I’m sure she will do.. albeit grudgingly)
Cora
P.S. Drogar Dintfin was along for the ride as well.. and I must say, I think you might want to limit his responsibilities in the organization. He appears to have a problem with controlling his urge to acquire gems, or I imagine anything small and of worth, regardless of the events and circumstances happening around him. And speaking out about things best kept hidden. And while he initially was in favor of accepting the aid of the demon fellow, he was easily swayed to the other side, by the arguments of the others in the group.
Connavar, however, was very reliable.
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"I'm not closed-minded, you're just WRONG." - Bucky Katt
My characters n portraits |
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Re: *** THE BLACK HAND ***
Posted: 15 May 2005 07:53 PM |
OOC standard disclaimer all that follows is information that only a select few would know... therefore please RP accordingly.
*note left for Cora*
We have recieved your report and Mister Jessup has been briefed of all you witnessed. He is most pleased with your work...twice he remarked how thorough you are. He was also pleased with your handling of the gem.
It is the limits that some put on themselves that sets those that are great and those that shall forever remain average. As for Drogar..he shall be spoken too with regards to his obession. Great work all around. Continue your investigation and keep us infromed..should you need anything let us know, by note or by contacting Fat Sam.
Signed,
Nico |
"I'm not closed-minded, you're just WRONG." - Bucky Katt
My characters n portraits |
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Re: *** THE BLACK HAND ***
Posted: 16 May 2005 12:08 AM |
| ((heh...nice work!)) |
Purpose in life: finding better ways of allowing players to kill themselves. Repeatedly.
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"...Cause he mixes it with love
And makes the world taste good."
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<@James42> Lawful good isn't in your vocabulary, it's on your menu.
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Re: *** THE BLACK HAND ***
Posted: 16 May 2005 07:18 AM |
<A letter is found marked for Mr Jessup>
Mr Jessup,
I bring news to you concerning the Narauth worshipers, Firstly let me begin by saying that i knew the Volcano is out of bounds currently from our organisation and that we need permission, but i was asked directly by the high priestess Ilanya to come and meet her, i know we have a trade currently in operation with them at the moment, but i felt it was my right and pride to say what i felt from my heart which wasnt too friendly. To sum up the meeting i had with them it ended up with harsh words spoken and in the end we agreed to disagree, i would strongly suggest that you do not put me in contact with any dealing with there order. As it may Jeoperdise the treaty. To report back the findings of what happened we had to goto the lands of hell accessiable by a boat under the black pearl in. There we went to the Ice plains and retrieved this ice chalice. Which we took back to the volcano where it was destroyed. Then in turn Luther .. a considerable Hero of the lands was given the Shard of the Tear which was given back to the Elves of Ferein. For you information i have built up a good relationship with the Elves and may be able to use it to seal any bargains or buisness you wish to offer them. This is only an idea though. I will drop in soon for an ale and maybe we can talk more.
Regards,
Jimmy S. |
Tom Benedict (elf cleric), Jimmy Scarlet (human ranger) Drogar Dintfin (Halfling Thief) |
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Re: *** THE BLACK HAND ***
Posted: 18 May 2005 08:41 PM |
OOC standard disclaimer all that follows is information that only a select few would know... therefore please RP accordingly.
Little Gina had a look of seriousness on her. No joking. Business. Thats what Mister Nico said as he handed her the note. "To the Cutlass my dear!...and make haste for he may be there already!" Gina new that this would pay well...a simple delivery...last time she did something for Mister Jessup she got 50 gold! 50!!!!! She would always remember the look on the Naruthians faces when they were looking for Mister Jessup.....how they fell for her act. How she told them that Mister Jessup was so mean and nasty to her. Not knowing moments earlier she had warned him of thier presance. She chuckled to herself.... a 10 year old...pulling one on the Naruthians. A wink of her eye was all Mister Jessup needed. Infromants come in many shapes and sizes...children were the best Mister Jessup learned. Now this letter needed to be delivered...business...visions of meat pies and candy danced in her head....and just maybe...maybe a little something from the Cafe del Mar. On to the Cutlass!
There she saw a man dressed in red....she had seen him in the tour shop many times....it was Mister Scarlet. She quickly ran up to him ignoring Redbeards curses at her and tugged on Jimmy's cloak and handed him the note...with a blink of an eye she was out and on her way to get paid!
Jimmy looked as the girl made her way out of the Cutlass. He shook his head. That is what made the Hand so dangerous. One never new who was working for them. Or why. Whith a shrug to Redbeard he opened the note reading the following.....
Mister Scarlet,
We have taken into account your meeting with the Naruthians and have hereby decided that the best course of action be minimizing your contact with them. We appreciate your honesty in the matter as this is a rather delicate pact. Mister Jessup is p[leased with your progress with the Fey. Please continue your investigation on the shards....These shards have created quite an interest in Mister Jessup . He wishes to know more about them and their power....please research this thoroughly. Mister Jessup has requested a meeting in person with you before you set about looking for the next piece. Continue your fine work and let us know if there will be anything you will be needing.
Sincerley,
Nico
Scribe and Accountant for P&J Enterprises. |
ONWARD AND UPWARD! |
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Re: *** THE BLACK HAND ***
Posted: 19 May 2005 10:36 AM |
After Jimmy read the note, he frowned with concern. Whilst idley picking up a mug of ale and draining the remaining contents.
Jimmy sat in thought switching himself off from the rest of the goings on of the Cutlass. He then stood up and reached for his backpack, there he opened it a produced a quill some ink and several pieces of rolled up parchment. Jimmy took his time before unrolling the parchment, Jimmy first pulled back his hair into a warriors tail.
Jimmy began to write in common.
Jessup,
I have received your note and will meet with you soon, there are some supplies I need. I have been summoned this Starsday to attend a council with the Elves concerning the next search for the fourth shard we will talk about this in person before then.
I also have some fresh information concerning what i beleive an Organisation known as The -Gathering-, they seem to have supernatrual powers. Let me start from the beginning.
Yesterday I was in the inn Mcgully's when an old man stumbled in, his eyes looked glazed over and at a closer inspection he seemed to be a young man but drained of his vitality, then the old man spoke in his voice but what seemed Alien words to him. He spoke of a wizard who died recently called Malaik or something, this Organisation claimed they held this wizards memories and body. They claimed that this dead wizard knew where the halfling Johe was held. And that he would hold over important memories. The -Gathering- were auctioning his memories and body soon, they said that they would post something at the Buckshire trading post with details when and where it would be held, they also mentioned that they has told the Neu'raths and other parties too maximise profit made. They talked about the price of one million gold. I hope this information is valuable to you.
Jimmy scarlet.
Jimmy quickly blew the ink dry and rolled up the parchment and put away the ink and quill. He hurried to Jessup's resediance to find Jessup was not in. Jimmy saw the usual serving man behind the counter in the outer room. Jimmy hurried over to him.
"Good day" Jimmy spoke in a gruff voice, the man nodded. Could you make sure Master Jessup gets this note, Jimmy showed the man the rolled up parchment. The serving man replied "Certainly", Jimmy handed over the parchment and with a nod of thank you, turned on his heels and headed for Brandibuck..... |
Tom Benedict (elf cleric), Jimmy Scarlet (human ranger) Drogar Dintfin (Halfling Thief) |
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Re: *** THE BLACK HAND ***
Posted: 24 May 2005 05:06 PM |
OOC: standard disclaimer: all that follows is information that only a select few would know... therefore please RP accordingly.
*Letter addressed to Mr. J*
Blanche La Belle claims she knows nothing of the incident with the vampire and the Midoran priestess, though she was very interested in the name of the priestess and the vampire in question. Perhaps if we had a name to give her, she could give some insight into who the priestess was. But as it is now, short of going to the Midoran temple and asking straight out, which wouldn’t be a good idea, I cant give you any answers.
On a different note. I am getting to know Blanche well enough that she is comfortable telling me things about herself. Which is a good indicator that she truly does NOT know anything about the vampire thing.
However, there is always the possibility that she is attempting to manipulate me because of my association with you and the BH.
She stated she was totally against your methods, and related an incident when you held her hostage, and you had killed two of her friends, paladins of Midor. She also stated that you were mistakenly under the impression that she had given an order to have you assassinated.
She seemed genuine in relating this to me, however; again, she could just be a very good actor.
One last bit of information that may be of interest. She no longer has any allegiance to Midor. Now that may have seemed self evident, but it goes much deeper than her association with the Midoran temple. She admits that the Midorans blindly follow Vidus’s word without knowing the truth about him. Though what that truth IS, she did not speak of. I shall try to find out more in the future.
But, what is really curious, is that she also claims her magics come from herself now, and even demonstrated this by casting a spell without giving acknowledgment to any god. I suggested the possibility that it WAS still granted to her by a god (after all, where else could such abilities come from) but that she may be being manipulated for some reason. As I think about this now, this also raises the question of whether she is delusional. However, the fact remains she was able to call upon the powers of the gods, without any acknowledgement of them.
I will keep you informed if I learn more of this.
Cora |
"I'm not closed-minded, you're just WRONG." - Bucky Katt
My characters n portraits |
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Re: *** THE BLACK HAND ***
Posted: 25 May 2005 01:25 AM |
OOC: standard disclaimer: all that follows is information that only a select few would know... therefore please RP accordingly.
The sent of fish is in the air....always seems to be when Betty is around. As Cora makes her way to the shop Betty calls out to her..."Oi wee one! Got something here for ya!" With that she tosses a rather large tuna at the diminuative halfling. With the grace of an agile cat Cora quickly snatches it out of the air. She looks up to question Betty but she is already helping other customers. With a shrug Cora prepares to put the fish into a sack for cooking later. As she does...she notices something sticking out of its large mouth....a note reading the following...
Lady Cora,
We recieved your last note and wish you to proceed as follows. Mister Jessup has hired another to seek out information as well....this one in particuler has a link to the dead...it should prove fruitful. Under no circumstances are you to go anyhwere near the castle in Maldolvia. Until thismatter with Mister Conn is resolved, Mister Jessup has ordered that none in the orginization enter the dead city. Continue tailing the White Maiden as she may as yet give us fresh leads. As for her opinions on Mister Jessup and the orginization suffice it to say that we hold little in her statements towards the orginization. It is only because we share the same goal at the moment that this one still walks among the living. It has been ordered by Mister Jessup that she be kept alive until further notice. Disregard any rants she has about the nature of the Hand and Mister Jessup. Please continue to keep us posted on your investigation.
On a side note...have you by any chance seen the one named Claudia? It would seem as you reported earlier that she may be able to pay off Johe's debt. Time is running out in this matter. Mister Jessup is not happy with this delay. He has already set into action the finding of the White Lady's spouse Phillipe. Though he has not as of yet stated what he is to do with him when found.
Nico
Scribe and Accountant of P&J Enterprises |
ONWARD AND UPWARD! |
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Re: *** THE BLACK HAND ***
Posted: 29 May 2005 10:28 PM |
OOC: standard disclaimer: all that follows is information that only a select few would know... therefore please RP accordingly.
*Letter Addressed to the Offices of PAJWT*
Mr. Jessup, as division manager of the Southern branch of the enterprise, it is my duty to inform you that this quarter's expectations are falling just short of our expectations. I had anticipated some backlash due to this office being bound primarily by politics over the last quarter, causing a significant reduction in productivity. The new work assigned to this branch has been fruitful, though only marginally so. As per your request, I have monitored the employee in question for signs of loss of productivity, and attempted to provide solutions to the third party that is distracting the employee from his duties. The third party was momentarily kept at bay by my efforts, and then was more soundly protracted by the influence of a lady who once wore white but does no longer. Luckily, my previous contact with her proved to aid the process. I have since lost contact with the employee in question, given his tendency to delve with a stout gentleman, but I will be sure to schedule a conference to reacquaint myself with him and the issue at hand. The complete identity of the third party is still in question, though previous assumptions have gone unchallenged. It may also be the case that this third party is influencing others not of our enterprise. Motives and strategies of this entity are still unknown. I will be sure to inform you should changes arise. Please inform my secretary should a meeting be necessary.
Southern Offices of PAJWT |
Do not ask of them questions. You will receive three answers, all of which are true and horrifying to know. |
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Re: *** THE BLACK HAND ***
Posted: 29 May 2005 11:35 PM |
OOC: standard disclaimer: all that follows is information that only a select few would know... therefore please RP accordingly.
A message left for Mr. Jessup at the wild tours.
Mr. Jessup i have found out the name of the one tormenting me. "Maria". I am in contact with a powerfull Vampire. He is the one who sired her. I will let you know in person all the details. The next time i see you.
She is becoming more and more violent. She has controled me and biten me, but i was assured that she was only feeding. She haunts me every day and gives me little rest. I wish to meet with you as soon as possible to disscuss how her hold on me may affect my abililty to serve the hand. I do not wish to compromise You or the hand in any way.
signed Connavar |
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