I would encourage Wes to start a blank campaign (one I am not invited to) so the party can brainstorm plans. (Just use the forum of that blank campaign... Wes can send the link by PMs.) Here is some information to work with: Target: Duke Percy Manfred Warburton of Newwall Messenger of King Norben Chorster, “First King of All Men.” Guardian of the “Red Chamber.” Protector of the “Earth Staff.” Hero of Foo. Minister of fashion and fine arts. Plan to watch and follow him... uncover his daily travels. Understand what each of the key buildings are for him (greenish blue buildings.) And understand his movements (path lines.) The red buildings are party buildings and Saul did a less than perfect job setting them up. One is party “living space/hideout” but its actually in the “Shield Ward” Two is the “shop” in the Lower Ward the walls are paper thin so neighbors will likely complain if too much “activity” is heard. Three is a legal office Saul is opening for himself, its forward thinking for his own business, however its receiving too much attention, due to it being in the “gossipy” Market Ward (no one told him to do this.) The harbor is under intense inspection. The Last Vagabond crew is under close watch and constantly boarded. They are skilled at handling such inspections but its risky for the party to visit them. This is a "Game Over" moment for the party. Killing Percy is a chaotic act, he is more valuable alive. You are each going into Scribbler's city and he is a 20th level Wizard. You are sticking you head in the lion's mouth, all the lion has to do it "bite." Players can die here, quickly, and likely hard to recover the body (you would be resurrected and imprisoned... game over, roll up a new character.) The plan needs to be really sound, winging it wont be helped. The only way I can think to stress the risk at this moment to the party (and the campaign overall) is with stating the reward: 8,000 XPs per player... that puts the party well over 5th level and almost to 6th level. Thinking, planning, sneaking, manipulating.... Swords are of no use here.... you cannot "cut" your way out of trouble.
