2008-02-12 The Master's Return

The Masters have returned, they say not from where. All seems back to normal, and even the imps seem to be somewhat subdued, at least for the moment.

Jovia was in the stockroom, doing inventory on various items from a locked chest. Definitely not Inn business, and only she had the key to that heavy laden box. While she worked Jovia puzzled about the response she had gotten from the Masters after her reports of the GF's conquests in Blackfathom Deeps. Clearly pleased with the growing power of the group, and content that they are back to full strength, she still sensed an undercurrent of unease when she reported the death of Aku'mai, a hydra that held some sway over the denizens of that place. The hydra was certainly powerful, so were they surprised that the GF were that capable so soon? That did not seem right, but she had no other explanation.

Jovia pulled the latest missive from the Masters received just this morning out of her robe pocket. She did not need to unroll it, as she had already read it's content. The adventurers confidence soared with the ease in which Blackfathom Deeps was forced to give up it's watery riches. Now the Grunt Foundation has decided to test their growing independence and have elected to pursue private matters for a time before gathering together for their next mission. The Masters are giving them some rope, but it comes with a price, and Jovia hoped the leeway the Masters were allowing did not come with a noose on the other end.

The first part of the Masters note Jovia understood. It was a task seemingly unrelated to the main focus of the group, but it would test both their allegiance and their progress. And perhaps Jovia's ability to control them as well.

The first part read: Task them to slay the Alliance outrunners that have been using the Barrens to deliver enemy messages. Take [The Runed Scroll] and let it lead them back to the sender - and kill her. Report when it is done.

Jovia knows the outrunners by their deadly reputation, and who they report to. It is a dangerous assignment.

The second part chilled her deeply. It was written on the same single sheet, but it was written in no Masters hand that Jovia knew. It said:

Aku'mai is returned to his place. Do not disturb the pet again.

The unseen hand in the Masters affairs that Jovia had sensed earlier was still at work. Jovia needed more information, but she dared not openly seek what she feared she might find. Jovia needed help. Huldu had taken an interest in the history of Azeroth, Jovia had noted. Perhaps that would serve her purpose now. She penned a short note and left it in his room at the Inn, along with the task she would set them on:

Grunt Foundation - Those to whom I report are pleased with your success and progress. As further proof of your allegiance you are directed to intercept the Alliance outrunners that are violating Horde territory in the Barrens and take [The Runed Scroll] they carry. Then trace and kill the sender. Take whatever time it takes to complete.

For Huldu: If you would aid me, I have need of information about the hydra Aku'mai, who was slain by this group in the deepest depths of Blackfathom Deeps. Research this for me and report back. Tell no one of what you find other than the GF.

Jovia Sends