Chapter Four: The Manifest of the Harikan Squall

"I begin to understand why you were all tight lipped and reluctant when you first came to the Trading Company," Domarc says, looking at the bodies on the cart. "It does seem that everyone even slightly touched by this tale is at risk, even those we try to shield by limiting their involvement. Heroism is clean and simple in the stories, but rarely so in real life." He takes a deep breath, smelling the soot and ash. "We likely shouldn't linger here, lest we attract more attention. But I am at a loss as to where to go. Chorcarz does not seem welcoming, though at least Zora still seems to be under his protection."
Domarc quietly walks up beside her. "He has lost much this night, and anger comes from that. Whatever business you bring him, give him time if you can. Decisions made in the midst of anger and grief are often wrong."

With the crowd dispersal etc, I'll just assume that I didn't get much out of the Ibetbal group talking about Gorham. Vhezyen also wasn't sure it would be wise to mention that he himself had met Gorham in the past, and knew him by name.

Vhezyen lingered, curious as to what could be pieced together between himself and this most curious group of individuals he had recently met. They were clearly part of something greater, or so it seemed. Drawn out of contemplation by Chorcarz's frustration at the woman, he cast about for the group, and noticed the tiefling. Certain that he, and his companions, were attempting to wrap their minds around recent events, Vhezyen approached him, seeking to somehow replace questions with answers.

"Have you found something? All I could gather from the crowd was that a man named 'Gorham' seems involved in the attack. Gavrel Gorham. I know of him, from my younger years." Lost in thought for a moment, in the recesses of time, he caught himself.

"Please, allow me to introduce myself. Vhezyen Khagbal. I am an academic by trade." Remembering the tiefling's honesty when they first met, he elaborated. "And a dabbler in the arcane arts." He grinned, reaching out to shake hands as part of introduction. "Although recently, I have reinvented myself. I suppose you could say I'm an archaeologist now, eager to trade the libraries I've long cherished for experience in the field."

Does that mean anything to Mordred? And can he tell what it is wet with?

"Do you live here in Hazard, Vhezyen? My friends and I are in need of somewhere to stay, and if you know anything about anyone tied to this attack, we should talk somewhere private. Though I must warn you, as my friend says, people that get involved with this mystery find themselves dead on a surprisingly regular basis."

Mordred does not yet reveal the string to anyone, for what it's worth.

Domarc pauses for a moment. "I do not know Chorcarz well, but he strikes me as a man who might be looking for the political angle behind your presence at this time and in this place, though I have no doubt your message is free of any such intent.

"If you would be so kind, however, please tell Gethro that the Pointy Hat Gang was behind tonight's actions - if he doesn't already know this. I believe the city guard may have two of their members in custody as a result of an incident tonight near the Temple of Ziu-Pater. Tell him that we still wish to avoid any appearance of intrigue, but look forward to talking again soon, if he thinks it prudent."

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See also Quipu

Leth glances at Vhezyen. He had heard him asking questions earlier, but amid all the commotion and the urgency of the moment, he hadn't bothered to pay him much attention; but now he's claiming to know the man that abducted Martjan.

People acquainted with our enemies who aren't also trying to kill us are rare... Seems like he could be worth talking to. Leth decides, and then is suddenly hit with a wave of exhaustion. As a huntsman, he is no stranger to being awake for long periods of time, or at unusual times, but today had been an exhausting day, and he is beginning to feel the need for rest. He agrees with Mordred, saying, "It does seem that an exchange of information is in order, but not here or now. We should first find ourselves a place to stay, and get some rest. It's been a long day."

"Worry not about my death, friend. It would simply be a new beginning, would it not?" Vheyzen pondered for a moment. "Regarding lodgings, I believe I can help you. When in Hazard, I myself reside at the temple of Thoth, and although I unfortunately cannot offer you rest at the dormitories, I can, however, recommend an excellent inn, the Caryatid. It's an antiquated establishment, with more than enough room, near the temple district. I know the proprietor quite well, and believe we would find the accommodations and amenities provided more than suitable to meet our needs."

Vhezyen could see that the man with the bow, a woodsman it would seem, was exhausted. He imagined the others might be as well. "Perhaps we could gather your friends, and make our way there soon? I am a glutton for mysteries and the unknown, and would hear more of your tales regarding devils and the like."

Felor yawns and wishes he'd prepared a "Summon Caffiene" ritual last time the party rested, whenever that was. He's having trouble remembering.
"An inn with a trustworthy keeper would be most welcome, friend. I feel there is not much more we can accomplish without first resting."