Topic: Shadows over Bogenhafen: game thread [players only please!]

[rufus sparkfire]

[Klaus]

Janna laughs. "You've met a few students then, Count. You're right - while there are  time-wasters among them, many are studious and hard working. Still, that's no reason not to complain about the annoying ones! Ah, you are writing a book about your travels, Count? That does sound fascinating. Have you progressed far with it? I would be very interested to read it - as you can see, I enjoy all types of books."

The shelves in her apartments are well-stocked with books. Naturally, there are a great many academic texts with titles that Klaus cannot read, but recognises as being written in Classical Reman or the Arcane language. But there are also more frivolous books - adventure stories, travelogues, even a copy of J. W. Göttingen’s Collected Folk Tales.

"Yes, I am certainly aware of the Emperor's edict forbidding the killing of mutants. It has not been well received." She frowns. "It's a difficult issue, because there are a great many innocent people afflicted by mutations - preventing them from being summarily killed is a good thing. But on the other hand, what of the harmful mutants? The beastmen that prey on travelers? Are they protected by the edict as well?" She shakes her head. "The whole thing has been badly thought out and clumsily executed. And the same is true of the new tax laws in this city. How can reasonable, intelligent people like Emperor Karl-Franz and Graf Boris permit such divisive laws? When both of them have ruled for many years with equity and vision? As you yourself say, Count, there is surely some sinister force at work - a power behind the throne." She smirks as she says this, "rather a good title for a book, don't you think? A melodramatic adventure story, where the brave hero uncovers the traitor at the heart of the Graf's court! Ah, if only life were as simple as a good melodrama.

"Now, I am unsure how much you know about how Middenheim enacts its laws, Count. The Graf is ultimately responsible for making law, but before he proclaims a law it is first formulated and ratified by the Law Lords. There are three of them: Ehrlich, Hoflich, and Wasmeier. The guild is lucky enough to have a special connection to one of the Law Lords - Wasmeier is himself a wizard, and a member. He has not been actively engaged in magical study for many years, having decided his true interest is the law. Even so, he often visits the High Wizard, and is careful to ensure our interests are represented.

"The Law Lords always decide whether to pass a new law by a majority vote among themselves. If one of them dissents, they do not speak of it to others." She leans towards Klaus and lowers her voice. "But Wasmeier has hinted rather strongly to the High Wizard that he voted against the new taxes. As we would expect. So that means that both Hoflich and Ehrlich must have voted in favour... which itself is odd, given their opposing beliefs on most matters.

"The question remains: who proposed the taxes in the first place? The Graf? The Law Lords? Or did someone else whisper in the Graf's ear? You mentioned Rallane, the minstrel, and I can see why you would. All the rumours point to him, and certainly he's been heard to say some mean-spirited things about dwarfs. I don't know him personally... but I've heard him sing and play. He's truly a gifted musician. I play the flute myself, but I'm nowhere close to his league." She sighs. "He's quite handsome too... but unreliable.

"No, I think Rallane is unlikely to be behind the taxes. The High Wizard and I both blame Chancellor Sparsam. It's the kind of thing he might easily dream up, late at night while he's hugging his ledgers and thinking of new ways to rob the people of Middenheim." Her voice is spiteful. "I'm sure he's regretting it now, since he can't go out in public without being followed about by crowds of furious dwarfs. But he'd be too stubborn to back down.

"There's something else: a few days ago I went to see him, to try again to persuade him to reconsider the scroll tax. He... he actually made a pass at me! I won't tell you what he said, Count, but it was quite disgusting! I threatened to turn him into a rat... I think I might have done it, too, if he hadn't fled the room immediately."

[Fandir Nightshade]

Klaus gaze is fixed concentrated on Janas face while she tells him the details of what she knows. Nodding at places he agrees with, that also have been already uncovered by the party and smiling at her curiosity about his book, his brow furrowing about the advances of the Chancellor Sparsam

"Well I can´t blame the man for trying to impress a wonderful woman such as you are Lady Eberhauer but he should be ashamed if he didn´t do so in a proper way, if you please so I will talk to the man and teach him some manners. I agree with your conclusions and I think the key to help uncovering what is going on are the law lords...but also talking to people high up in favours with the Graf. Do you think the High Wizard could get us invitations to the dance that will happen at the courts? I will meet up with Rallane and the secretary of the Law Lord Ehrlich this very day too. Regarding my book....I guess you have to wait at the very least until our business in Middenheim is done, as right now my mind is focussed on matters at hand I don´t want to hand it over without at least the first chapter finished. Should you find out anything else you can send me a message at the Templeras arms inn [i hope this is the right place, where we are staying?]. I will now leave you dear Fräulein but hopefully the gods will cause our paths to cross soon again." With this Klaus will graciously bow to the wizard and leave ...if there is enough time before the elven dancers start their show he will leave for the office of the law lord ehrlich.

[Karl Voss of Averland]

Admund will congratulate Heinrich, Allavandrel, and Max on a well shot match if they come near the viewing stand.

"Well shot, lads. Allavandrel, you did quite well, though I'm sure you're more used to shooting game than archery butts. I've only used a crossbow myself, and that's more for punching holes in a man's plate armor than hunting game. Careful though, they might replace you as hunt master with Jacob of Hochland when they start taxing elves!"

He will also render proper military courtesy and warm greetings to Marshal von Genscher and Sir Prunkvol should his path cross theirs.

As the time comes, he will depart for the stadium to see if there is an opening available in the Minotaur fights. On his way across the Square of Martials he will admire the statue of Bildhofen. Admund's never met the current Duke of Carroburg personally, but he's served in a couple levies, and respects him much. He's never met the Trodbringers, but seeing Middenheim so embroiled in this tax business has him questioning the Graf's character. Why would Todbringer let such nonsense go on in his own city? Laws like this can only start a riot amongst the dwarf and wizard minorities. That will be good for no one. Old Bildhofen would never let this happen. He thinks back to his home town warmly as he makes his way to the stadium.

At the Stadium he will see if he can get information about the minotaur fights. He left his shield back at the Templar's Arms, and will go get it if the stadium doesn't provide him one. He will enter the fights, if allowed, as "Admund of Carroburg".

[rufus sparkfire]

[Klaus]

"That's very gallant of you, Count, though unnecessary... I don't think he'll trouble me again. You know, talking about it with you has made me realise something... I was shocked and angry when it happened, of course, but it never occurred to me how out of character it was for Chancellor Sparsam to behave like that. He's nearly sixty years old and unmarried. He's totally devoted to his work to the exclusion of anything else. For him to suddenly make such a graphic, lewd advance on me is very strange indeed. Could it simply be stress? I'm not sure. I wonder if he has made similar advances on other ladies? Petra will know. Do you know Petra Liebkosen, Klaus? She lives at the palace, and is a great one for gossip. According to her, one of the ladies of the court is paramour to the Graf - surprising, considering how deep in mourning he is said to be for his late wife. Or perhaps not surprising at all.

"The guild still has some influence with the Graf, so if you can uncover evidence of treachery we will be able to support you, Count. I'm not sure though if the High Wizard will be able to obtain an invitation for you to the garden party. I'll ask him to try. He and I will be attending, of course, so I hope to see you there! I'm already looking forward to your book... I hope the latest chapters will recount how you exposed the malign influence at court and caused the tax laws to be repealed!"


[Klaus has time to visit the Law Lord's clerk at the Guild of Legalists before the elven dance display. He can go there now if he's finished talking to Janna.]

[Fandir Nightshade]

"Well dear Lady Eberhauer you have been of great help and well...if you don´t mind I would suggest that we could meet up this evening perhaps with the High Wizard present too and exchange news if there are any....or if there are none enjoy a meal and some wine together at an appropriate place, without the High Wizard." Smiling at his suggestion Klaus will leave for the offici of the Law Lord Ehrlich trying to talk with the secretary.

[rufus sparkfire]

[Admund, Heinrich, Julian, Max, Ragni]

"Ah, now an elf tax would be a cause for real concern," Allavandrel says lightly, "taxing dwarfs is a fine idea, for why shouldn't they share the gold they spend all that time grubbing around in the dirt for? But to tax elves would be to tax air, light, and beauty!" He laughs, obviously meaning it as a joke.

Ragni's face turns red. "What was that about grubbing in the dirt!" he says. Allavandrel pretends not to hear him, though he does roll his eyes very slightly.

"I'd better be off - I need to practice shooting at tame targets, as you say," he says to Admund, "I'll leave you to your crossbows and your bearded friends."

The Marshal nods politely to Admund in response to his greeting. The Knight Eternal, however, looks down his nose at him while giving a painfully-correct salute.


Max and Ragni are keen to watch Admund fight the minotaur [and I'm assuming Heinrich and Julian want to go as well]. The fight is to take place at the Bernabau Stadium, on the far side of the Great Park.

The stadium is a large amphitheater, with room for five thousand spectators - two thousand seated on wooden benches, the rest standing on terraces (the terraces are favoured by real fans, apparently). The large area inside is used for Snotball matches, chariot races, and, of course, pit fights. There are four entrances to the stadium, each guarded by watchmen. There are only a few watchmen here today, since the crowd rarely become violent during a pit fight. Snotball matches, of course, are another matter entirely.

Admund inquires about the rules for fighting a minotaur, and finds himself speaking to the stadiums Kislevite owner, Aleksandr Yarblinsky. "You fancy your chances, mate?" he says, "very good. Well, there's no fee to pay, and we supply all the gear you need. That's a club and a shield only - no armour, and no other weapons to be used. You go in and you fight the minotaur, until you subdue it or it finishes you." He laughs, "don't worry, if you're doing badly I've got some lads on standby to rush in and hold it off so you can get out. We've been running these fights for years, and hardly anyone ever dies. That said, if you fight it's at your own risk. You win, you get 10% of the ticket price: you'll get at least 200 crowns, maybe more. Not bad for one fight! You'll be on third, if you choose to do it. We've got a dwarf trollslayer going up against the first mino, if you believe that. He'll be a hard act to follow! So, do you want in? Your friends will have to buy tickets if they want to watch."

If Admund agrees to fight, he'll be shown through into the fighter's area of the stadium, where he can get ready. The others will need to buy tickets: these vary in price depending on how close they are to the front (10 shillings up to 5 crowns). Betting is encouraged! Admund will be rated at 3:1 to win.

[rufus sparkfire]

[Klaus]

"I have enjoyed talking to you, Count," Janna says, "and I wish you luck in your investigation. I'm afraid I'm going to the opera this evening - do you like opera? I already have my ticket, so I don't want to make other plans. I would certainly like to join you for dinner on another night, if you're free."

[Karl Voss of Averland]

"Aye, I'll have a go at this minotaur." Admund says, and enters his name "Admund of Carroburg" into the lists.

"You lads fancy a fight?" Admund says wolfishly. "Max, you coming in? Here, take my things and watch them during the fight, if you will. Keep that medical kit nearby. With my luck of late, I might need it again." He says with a wink.

Admund will enter the fighter's area. He will meet and joke with the other fighters and watch the other combats, sizing up minotaurs. He will look for any persons of note at the fight.

[rufus sparkfire]

[Admund, Heinrich, Julian, Max, Ragni]

"Very good!" Aleksandr says, "in you go, and good luck to you!"


Max actually looks tempted by Admund's flippant offer... but then comes to his senses. "Of course I'll look after your things, Admund," he says, "and I'll be ready to help if you need me! I'm sure you'll be great though. Sigmar grant you strength! I'll be cheering from the crowd."

Admund goes into the fighter's area, while the others buy tickets (Max insists on paying) and go through to the stands. Julian places a 10 crown bet on Admund, which Ragni copies (as usual). The stadium is already crowded with spectators, and more are arriving all the time. A lot of them have pints of beer in their hands, and meat pies bought from the many halfling vendors. Ragni buys a pie and eats it messily.

Some spectators are even wearing novelty hats with pretend bull's horns on them (these are also available from the halfling vendors). Max buys one!

The group are on one of the terraces, not too far from the front. Opposite from them, in one of the seated areas, they notice Dieter Schmiederhammer and his fiance Kirsten. He waves to them.


The fighter's area is below the stands - indeed, there's a whole warren of chambers down there, including training rooms, a smithy, a bar... and the beast cages. Any thought Admund might have had that the minotaurs are fakes is quickly dismissed - there's no mistaking their bellowing calls.

Admund is in the changing room, along with the two fighters who are due to go on before him. An attendant provides him with a sturdy wooden club, and a stout shield with the stadium's crest on it.

The first contestant is a lean young man with carefully-styled hair. The second is a dwarf... the dwarf's hair and beard are dyed bright orange, and have been cut and stiffened in the unmistakeable style of a trollslayer. His exposed skin is covered in tattoos and scars. Both contestants are shirtless, ready for the fight, though the trollslayer probably came in that way.

"Hello," the young man says, offering Admund his hand to shake, "my name is Alchred von Hintz: pleased to meet you! Have you ever fought one of these beasts before? I just went to look at them, and I must confess, they are rather larger than I expected."

The trollslayer simply stares at Admund. His eyes are bulging and his face is contorted with barely-contained rage. Either he's worked himself into a beserker rage, or he's taken something...

[Karl Voss of Averland]

"Hello there, Alchred von Hintz," Admund says taking his hand, "Nah, I've never fought a minotaur before. I'm usually killing other men." Admund says chidingly with a wink. He ignores the raging dwarf, but keeps a wary eye on him. Re-lacing his boots, he checks to see his hidden boot knife is still tucked away safely.

Admund takes the club and shield, and beats the two together a few times, and stretches. He rolls the club over and under his wrist, like he does his longsword to get a sense of it's weight. He rocks back and forth to loosen his legs up for the fight.

"So, lads, which one of us is going first?" Admund smiles encouragingly.

[rufus sparkfire]

Alchred laughs nervously, unsure if Admund meant what he said or if it was a joke. He's probably a minor noble, judging by his name and appearance.

The hidden knife is still in Admund's boot. As he stretches, he's acutely aware of the condition of his back - it still hurts, and the fight is likely to reopen the cuts. Still, that can't be helped.

"I'm supposed to be on first," Alchred says, "um... but I don't mind if someone wants to take my place."

The trollslayer beats his chest with his fist and growls! There's a trace of drool at the side of his mouth, which is a worrying sign.


In the arena, all three Midden Marshals arrive and take their seats in the VIP box. Von Genscher has his two sons with him.


[Does Admund want to go first, or let the slayer go before him?]

[Karl Voss of Averland]

"Oh come on, Herr Alchred, I was only making a jibe. Well, I am a sell sword, so maybe it's more true than not. Where you from lad? What brings you to the minotaur fights?"

Admund will offer a little help to Alchred. "Here, hold your shield up like this. Higher! There you go. Don't let it drop when you move. Soldiers often do that, and it leaves 'em open. Bend your knees a little, keep your balance even as best you can."

Admund will let the troll slayer go first, as sees no sense in fighting him along with the minotaur. He will watch the fight as bet he can to get a read on minotaurs.

[rufus sparkfire]

"I'm from Altdorf," Alchred says, "my father has cut me off from the family money... he doesn't like my fiance and told me to break off our engagement. I told him he where he could stick his money... I thought this would be a good way of raising some cash! But now I'm not so sure."

He thanks Admund profusely for the fighting tips.

The slayer still doesn't speak. He barges his way into the arena, pushing the attendants out of the way. Once he's in front of the crowd, he raises his arms and roars like an animal!

"Wow, a slayer!" Ragni says, in the audience. "Look at all his scars! He must be a bloody good fighter. I can't wait for this!"

The gate at the far end of the arena opens. The minotaur is about to appear!

[rufus sparkfire]

[Klaus]

Meanwhile, Klaus goes across town to the Worshipful Guild of Legalists, which he visted with Max the other day (it's south of the Great Park). The building is less busy today - the carnival is drawing attention away from other matters. Klaus asks at the front desk for Wolfgang Schmidt's office, and is shown to a large, neat room on the top floor. There's a nice view of the park through the window, over the intervening rooftops.

Schmidt is an elderly man with a pair of elaborate, silver-edged spectacles. "Ah, good afternoon. Are you Count Klaus? I am Wolfgang Schmidt, clerk to Law Lord Ehrlich. Please sit down. I can offer you a glass of sherry, if that would appeal? What can I do for you?"

[rufus sparkfire]

[at the arena!]

"Ladies and gentlemen," the announcer booms, "the first to prove himself in battle against a fearsome minotaur is Glugnur! Let's hear your support for this brave dwarfish warrior!"

The crowd cheer and applaud!

Bellowing with rage, a minotaur charges into the arena. The creature is fully ten feet tall, with a monstrous, ogre-like body and the head of a bull. It's completely naked and alarmingly well-endowed. Steam pours from its nostrils as it lunges at the slayer!

Glugnur dodges the initial charge, bringing his club down smarty across the back of the monster's knee. It stumbles, allowing him to leap onto its back and take hold of both horns! He actually discards his club to do this, screaming unintelligibly all the time. Holding on to the horns, he braces his feet against its shoulders and tries to wrench off its head! All the while, the minotaur punches him savagely, to little effect.

The fight goes on in this way for some time. At last, the minotaur loses its balance. Even then, the dwarf holds on to the horns. As it lies prone, he repeatedly punches it in the head.

At last, a gang of armoured men run into the arena and grab hold of the deranged dwarf, dragging him - still screaming - back to the changing room. The unconscious minotaur is carried away to recover.

"Glugnur wins!" the announcer shouts, "don't worry about him, ladies and gentlemen! He told us in advance that he goes into a battle-frenzy and loses control of himself! He'll be back to take a bow and collect his prize when he's calmed down!

"Now, the next fighter!"


In the changing rooms, Alchred looks at Admund. "Uh, would you like to go next?"

[Karl Voss of Averland]

"Hah! You aren't scared are you, Alchred?" Admund gives him a hardy slap on the arm. "You'll do fine lad. I'll go ahead of you."

Admund will trot out into the arena, and salute the crowd. He will stand centered before the Midden Marshall's and render a proper military salute, before going to face the minotaur. If all goes well, he hopes to meet them.

Admund plans to approach the fight clearly different than the raging dwarf. He wants to use the minotaurs size and strength against it. Admund is fairly quick and can dodge around, but he knows he probably can't outrun a raging bull. He will charge it quickly to get some blows in first, and then try to get behind it. He will strike the minotaur savagely in the legs and head to try and subdue it.

[rufus sparkfire]

The crowd cheer as Admund steps into the arena. He notices Max, wearing a ridiculous hat, jumping up and down and shouting his support from the terraces. It's strangely encouraging.

The Midden Marshals accept Admund's salute, clearly impressed by his decorum. Now he just has to win the fight...

"Our next valiant warrior," the announcer says, "is Admund of Carroburg! Don't be fooled into thinking he's not a serious contender because he's fighting with his shirt on! He's no beserker, but a cool-headed, strategic fighter! Let's see how those skills serve him against the king of the beastmen!"

Bellowing and snorting steam, a fresh minotaur charges into the arena. This one is just as large and terrible as the last. It stops to beat its chest and roar, and at that moment Admund rushes it!

[Admund (+10 WS charge bonus) 1: 58, hits right leg. S4+1+d6 roll of 6! (add damage = no) -T5 = 6 wounds!]
[A2: 71, miss]

His club connects with the monster's leg with considerable force! The crowd cheer! It stumbles, roaring more with anger than with rage, and tries to gore him.

[Minotaur 1: 36: hits body. S4+d6 roll of 1-T3-a1 = 1 wound. Dodge blow = 28, pass!]
[M2: 59, miss]

He leaps sideways to avoid it (his back complains as he does - he thinks he's probably reopened some of the cuts) darting around to the beast's flank (charge bonus retained).

He attacks it again, shield raised to ward off any blows that come back at him.

[Admund (charge bonus) 1: 49, hits left leg. S4+1+d6 roll of 6! (add damage = yes!)+4-T5 = 10 wounds!]
[A2: 64, miss]

Again, he clubs it in the leg. This time he hits with such force that it almost falls! The crowd cheer even more!

The beast turns with surprising swiftness and tries to gore him again.

[Minotaur 1: 06, hits body. S4+d6 roll of 4-T3-A1 = 4 wounds. Dodge blow = 80, fail. Parry (using shield) = 16, pass! D6 wounds saved = 3. 1 wound taken]
[M2: 67, miss]

The minotaur's horns plunge towards Admund's chest. He manages to ward them off with his shield, but the tip of one rakes across his chest, ripping his shirt and making a long, shallow cut across the skin. He jumps back, trying to recover his balance.

The crowd gasp!

[attacks this round lost due to shield parry]

The beast roars, then lunges at him again.

[Minotaur 1: 97, miss]
[M2: 59, miss]

He easily avoides it, then counter-attacks!

[Admund 1: 24, hits left arm. S4+1+d6roll of 5-T5 = 5 wounds!]

He bashes it in the arm, again with immense force. The minotaur stumbles, then collapes. It lies on the arena floor gasping. Admund has won! The crowd go wild!


Up in the stand, Max pulls off his shirt and waves it around like a flag while shouting Admund's name (he's obviously had a few beers). Ragni is yelling something in dwarfish beside him.


"Admund of Carroburg has won!" the announcer says, "let's hear it for the brave mercenary! Take a bow, Admund! You've earned your prize money!"

Admund is breathing heavily, his shirt is ripped, and he can feel blood trickling down his front and his back. But he won convincingly! He can see that the Midden Marshals look impressed by his victory.

[Karl Voss of Averland]

Admund feels the blood trickle down the cuts on his chest and his back. The adrenaline hasn't worn off yet, so they don't sting, but he knows they will later. Standing at the center of the ring, he lets out a yell that eggs the crowd on with club held high, "Carroburg! Middenheim! Middenland!!!"

He faces his friends in the crowd as he rotates, tilting his head in acknowledgement. When he faces the Midden Marshalls, he lowers his club and holds it to the side, in a traditional salute.

[rufus sparkfire]

"Hurrah! Well done Admund!" Max shouts.

The rest of the crowd agree, cheering Admund uproariously. When the fuss has died down a bit, the announcer says, "we still have one fight left for today. Thank you, Admund of Carroburg! Ladies and gentlemen, please welcome Alchred von Hintz of Altdorf!"

Admund takes the hint to return to the changing room. Alchred congratulates him, before gulping and stepping out to face his own minotaur.

In the changing room, Admund sees that someone has emptied a bucket of cold water over the trollslayer. It looks like he's starting to calm down... he's stopped shouting at least.


Alchred's fight doesn't go as well as Admund's. The beast's first charge smashes his shield to pieces, forcing him to fight on without it. He lands a couple of good blows, before being hurled against a wall. As he slides stunned to the floor, the guards rush in and force the minotaur to return to its cage (before it can eat the helpless young noble). Alchred is helped to his feet and brought back to the changing room. He's bruised and dizzy, but not too badly hurt.

"Give him a cheer anyway, ladies and gentlemen!" the announcer says, "minotaur fights are tough, and he made a good show of it! Now, let the winners return to the arena to receive their prizes!"

The dwarf slayer jumps off the bench he's been sitting on and strolls towards the arena. "Come on, lad," he says to Admund, in a perfectly normal voice.

The Midden Marshals have descended into the arena to meet the victors. But first, Aleksandr (the stadium's owner) presents Admund and the slayer with a bag each, containing 300 gold crowns! "Nice big crowd today," he says, "well done lads! You fought well."

"Cheers," the trollslayer says, "I'm off then. Thanks, generals or whatever," he says to the marshals. Then he simply walks out of the arena.

Marshal von Genscher laughs, "Slayers are very single-minded," he says, "he'll be off to get as drunk as possible. I hope the watch are ready."

The Watch Commander rolls his eyes.

"Now, Admund," von Genscher says, "I think we all agree that you handled that beast very well. Have you ever considered a career with the Middenheim army?"

[Karl Voss of Averland]

Admund chuckles at the Marshal's joke, but remains fairly serious. He knows to mind his manors around officers in the military, and remembers well the beatings he received from the sergeants when he didn't. He'll speak in a respectful tone and courteously.

"I thank you, M'lord Marshal. I actually learned the sword in Duke Bildhofen's levies years ago, sir. I've been serving in Free Company's since. I'm afraid that with these new tax laws, Middenheim's ranks will start to deplete once the dwarfs start leaving. I'm a proponent of keeping the military far from politics lest we end up like old Remas, but i'm sure the affects of this politicking are landing on your doorstep regardless, sir. Middenheim is the bastion of the Empire, and warden of her northern borders. Anyway I can lend to aid you and the city, I'd gladly hear, sir."

[Subtracted 1 Wound, added 300 GC]

[rufus sparkfire]

"Well spoken, son" the marshal says, "I like your attitude. You could do well in the army, if you wanted. Hmmm, I wonder if we can find a more immediate use for you."

"In the short term, I'm sure the city could use more watchmen during the carnival," the general says, "to guard important civic events, perhaps." He looks significantly at the marshal, who nods.

"Admund," the watch commander says, frowning, "I know that name... I had a letter from some lawyer today claiming that you and some others were unjustly flogged. Is that correct? Do you wish to complain about your treatment by the watch?"

[Karl Voss of Averland]

"Thank you, sir," Admund says with genuine gratitude, "Serving Middenheim during the carnival would be a honor for me, and much more enjoyable than my times in Free Companies. I can keep a minotaur in order fairly well, sir, I'm sure any ruffians will go the same way."

Turning to answer Middenwatch Marshal Schutzmann's questions in a lower voice, "Yes sir, my name is Admund Auerswalder of Carroburg. Upon entering Middenheim, I was hired by some insane dwarf hell-bent on settling his grudge duel against Julian Stonebridge - you may have met him sir, he is the new champion since this morning. When I tried to stop the madman from beating some poor lad to try and get at Julian, he attacked me and nearly killed me."

Admund swallows, his voice dry and parched from combat, and continues, "A Sergeant Kratz from the Southgate watch saved my life, and I helped apprehend supporters of that mad dwarf. The captain of the south gate watch regardless implicated everyone for being involved, even those innocent, and had them all flogged. I took 24 lashes yesterday afternoon after aiding a watch patrol apprehend criminals, sir. I saw that a clerk from Law Lord Holfich's office was heavily leaning into the captain, and think that this Holfich is controlling your watchmen, sir. I mean not to dirty your hands with politics, but it might be a matter looking into, sir. I took my lashes, and went on with life. As you can see, I can take my licks, sir."

"I'd be happy to talk with you more in private if you wish, sir. Probably best not to have such a detailed conversation in the middle of a stadium."

[Fandir Nightshade]

[Klaus]

Meanwhile, Klaus goes across town to the Worshipful Guild of Legalists, which he visted with Max the other day (it's south of the Great Park). The building is less busy today - the carnival is drawing attention away from other matters. Klaus asks at the front desk for Wolfgang Schmidt's office, and is shown to a large, neat room on the top floor. There's a nice view of the park through the window, over the intervening rooftops.

Schmidt is an elderly man with a pair of elaborate, silver-edged spectacles. "Ah, good afternoon. Are you Count Klaus? I am Wolfgang Schmidt, clerk to Law Lord Ehrlich. Please sit down. I can offer you a glass of sherry, if that would appeal? What can I do for you?"

While walking towards the Guild Klaus if whistling a tune as he is in a fantastic mood a wide smile is on his face and his pace is spirited....he considers why he is in such a good mood....maybe because the red haired wizard seemed to be interested in him, but no it is something else. Considering his current situation Klaus realizes that, whenever he felt satiated at a place, content, he became restless and he got the itch to gamble and to take risks to once again have peace of mind...usually ending up broke and having to pick up some skullduggery [great word] to barely stay alive. It then came to him like and it hit him like a thunderstruck, he was gambling...right now. Not with dices or cards but with his life and the life of the others he met in Bogenhafen. The thrill of the game, the constant risk of being uncovered that he isn´t a Count not even of royal blood, demons appearing to tear the flesh of his skin or Etelka once again trying to kill him. All this was giving him an obscene sort of pleasure and it made him continue with it seeing it to the end. Knowing that playing with the fire usually gets you burned dampens Klaus`s mood a little bit but he decides to focus his mind to matters at hand...and also making a lavish donation at one of the hidden shrines of Ranald so his luck wouldn´t run out.

Arriving at the office he greets the law clerk Schmidt

"Good day dear sir, ahh this carnival really is one of the great wonders of the Old World and it has but only started...but I am here on other business. You know I am in the business of trade and some of my companions on my venture are Dwarves I am here on their behalf and wanted to ask the Law Lord Ehrlich...or his certainly most skilled and competent clerk about this Dwarf tax, how it came to be passed and if it is a one time carnival thing or if it is likely to stay, I would need to know so I can plan if I should even try to invest in a trade route up to Middenheim. I heard lots of good things about the Law Lord Ehrlich, that he takes interest in the fate of people and therefore thought to myself...`Klaus`....that is my name...`Klaus this doesn´t seem right so best get to the man in charge and ask him what this is all about.`I can understand, that the Law Lord Ehrlich must be an incredible busy man but maybe you can give me my answers. Oh and just water for me it is a bit too early in the day."

[rufus sparkfire]

[Admund]

"Ah, Julian Stonebridge mentioned to me that he was whipped for dueling," General Schwermutt says, "I didn't inquire further... but it seems as though there's more to this. What is Law Lord Hoflich doing intervening with the watch?"

"He has no right to," Watch Commander Schutzmann says, "it is beyond his authority. My captain should not have gone along with it, and I will certainly be speaking to him." He looks at Admund sternly, "still, I cannot believe that you were entirely innocent. My watchmen are not in the habit of whipping honest citizens."

"The lad has taken his punishment," von Genscher says, "with fortitude, like a good soldier. We shouldn't hold it against him - ha, a man who can defeat a minotaur the day after he's taken a lashing is good man in my book! And you're quite right, Admund - this is hardly the place for a lengthy conversation. Come to my house on the Square of Martials tomorrow morning, early. We'll talk properly then, and figure out how you can serve the city. All right lad? Now, go and celebrate your victory with your friends!"

General Schwermutt agrees warmly, while the watch commander only nods. The Midden Marshals leave the arena.


Admund rejoins the others outside the stadium. Julian and Ragni have each won 20 crowns on their 10 crown bets. Ragni is in high spirits. "Bloody well done, Admund," he says, "you sorted that bloody big cow out, and you won me some money doing it! Grow yourself a beard and you'd make a good dwarf! Bit on the tall side, but you can't have everything."

"Yes, very well done!" Max says, slurring his words slightly. He's kept his shirt off, and is still wearing the novelty minotaur hat. He looks ridiculous. "You made it look easy, Admund! I might fight a minotaur myself tomorrow! Ha ha! Gosh, were you hurt at all? Looks like you've got a bit of a scratch... how's your back too? Need me to fix you up? Don't worry, I'm only a little bit drunk! Hey, then we can all go to the ale festival! Can we?"

"I fancy that, Max lad," Ragni says, "what d'you say, Boss? Heinrich?"

[rufus sparkfire]

[Klaus]

"I am glad that you are enjoying the carnival so far, my lord," the clerk says, "just water? Very well, here you go. Now, to business: Law Lord Ehrlich regrets that he is unable to speak to you himself, but he is currently suffering from a minor but contagious ailment that he does not wish to spread unduly. He instructed me to inform you of this delicate fact - relying of course on your discretion - so that you would appreciate his reason for not meeting you in person.

"I am afraid that the tax on dwarfs - together with the related taxes on wizards and priests - is here to stay. Graf Boris himself insisted on it, and I understand there was substantial support in court circles as well. The Law Lords, of course, have determined that the taxes are legal and entirely within the authority of the Graf to impose. They cannot therefore be challenged, unless Graf Boris changes his mind.

"Any dwarf resident in the city will have to pay at the end of each month, with the first payment being made at the end of carnival week. Payment is also made when leaving or entering the city, though this is counted against the monthly charge, where applicable. I am afraid then that any dwarfs involved in your trade venture will be liable, and thus you may find it more profitable to limit your business to non-dwarfs."

The clerk's tone is slightly apologetic, and Klaus senses that he really is sorry about the new taxes... but since the Law Lords have endorsed them he feels unable to speak against them.

"Do you have more questions for me, my lord?"