Chapter 1: Uncertain Times

"I must admit, this is a fascinating subject. Working with animating bodies is one thing, but being unconcerned with attention." Kolya pours himself a drink, then leans forward. "Whoever is behind this must want to be discovered, or should be stopped...possibly both." He takes a sip, swirling the alcohol in the glass. "I think our next step is to question the guards."

agreed, but I am best at analysis, not mind magic

I've some skill with mind, but I would be..hammering where a finer tool is required

Dragomir cracks his knuckles. "There are other ways to get information. Let us go make new friends."

The Cossack begins grabbing his gear to head back to the crime scene.

Yes, lets go back there..... that will be fun

As the sun progresses through the sky, after a few hours of research and study, you return to the ill-fated house. There are two different guards standing in front. As you approach, they stiffen defensively, clearly ready to defend the house.

Dragomir watches the guards as he walks toward them. He looks to Babushka and whispers to her.

"Perhaps it best we take a softer approach first. Would Baba Diya like to do the honors? Dragomir is handsome and charming, but maybe not their type..."

I will stay out of sight, and perhaps learn more when you leave after the interview. Call for a scribe (Pisatel) if you need me to join you.
Stepan goes into an ally and cast Invisibility. After that he finds a good spot to stand.

Good day gentleman. I am here to assist in this tragedy. Surely you have heard of me, and how I help all of the people in the city who seek me out

The guards look at you and one gestures courtesily. "Of course, Babushka. You assisted my sister's sister with her birth of little Rochena Dopovich." The other nods in recognition of the story (soldiers repeat stories endlessly, it is known).

The first thumbs back at the door behind him. "You're welcome to view the scene when Borislav Artemovich is done." He leans forward, whispering. "From the boyar's house, he says."

Fascinating! My associates will assist me, if that is alright

The waiting commences. Is invisible dude patient, or curious?

Twenty minutes later, a pale faced nobleman emerges, holding a hand to his side, cold greasy sweat on his brow. He rests his other hand on the door frame and takes a long deep breath. Seeing your motley band, he straightens. "What's this then?" he demands of the guards.

The first guard gestures idly, "They're the local, um, midwives?"

The three look at you questioningly.

Wisewoman, midwide... she shrugs. The locals are worried, and I was afraid I would need help gestures to the others.

The guard says, "Borislav Artemovich Dellov, this is Baba Diya, the Babushka. And these are..." the guards trails off.

Borislav had focused on Kolya. "Doctor Kolya. Spy for the pretender regent."

Stephan can't help raising an eyebrow, from his corner, when Borislav addresses Kolya. He thinks to himself: This is news to me

Kolya smiles softly and gives a soft bow. "I see my reputation precedes me. I serve the Crown, and any who require my medical knowledge. I leave the politics to others, though in these troubled times, it seems some will do what they can to disparage others."

Stehan carefully writes a note to one of his Cabal members, that he will follow this nobleman Borislav. He then slips the note into the pocket of whoever it is easiest had it of to.

I apologize if my companion upsets you. But he is skilled and in this dire situation....