DM Kathy Wednesday January 28th, 2004 9:11:38 PM
Baldis give Mira the name of the customer who ordered the coat; it is on the list that Conner has. It seems to remind Baldis of something.
"The list you have," he explains. "It's only people who bought custom pieces. If somebody just walks in and buys one of the ready-made items," he waves his hand about the shop, "I don't take their name down or anything."
He bids you farewell and goes back inside to ply his trade and worry about his son.
Out on the street, the group spots Evan pretty quickly and meets for a brief moment to discuss options. Evan points out where Kadaz and Shaka have gone; the group can go in and participate in the conversation if they wish.
Meanwhile...
"Oh, I have time for this," the unseen voice says waspishly. The woman stands up from her position behind one of the tables and heaves a large book up onto the tabletop. It lands with a loud WHUMP! As she speaks, she brings up a couple more.
"I have time to do"-WHUMP!-"research before the "-WHUMP!-"books are even unpacked." She stands, fists on hips, glaring at you. "I have time to stand around talking to--to--" she takes in your appearance, your gear, and continues, "to adventurers all afternoon. I mean," a wave of the hand encompassing the unfinished shop, "it's not like I've got anything else to do, right?"
She is a young human woman, simply dressed. Her hair is covered with a scarf, which is streaked here and there with dust and grime. Her dress is protected by a big apron, which also shows smears of dirt, as well as splatters of whitewash. Her sleeves are rolled up. Short tendrils of brown hair have escaped the scarf and frame her face. Her cheeks are pink from a combination of exertion and ire, and her eyes flash with irritation. She actually looks quite fetching, but it would be a brave man who would tell her so just at the moment.
She opens one of the books and begins flipping pages. "If somebody's sick," she says without looking up, "they can take care for him at the infirmary in the Cathedral of Light." A pause, then she looks up and sees you standing there. "The---Cathedral---of---Light," she repeats slowly. She goes back to flipping through her book. "Its a building by itself on an island. I'm sure you can find it."
Mira Wednesday January 28th, 2004 10:07:55 PM
Mira laughs as Evan's fingers form rapid signs, and she reaches out to take his hands in hers, "Oh dear! You must slow down! I am only just learning your language, and am not proficient!" Suddenly, she feels something brushing against her consciousness, like a silk scarf over her skin, foreign, yet familiar. She tilts her head and studies the ranger quizically.
She looks over her shoulder briefly, at Conner and Arm, and says "you go question Evred's father, but call me if you need me. I'll stay here and go over our notes with Evan. We'll catch Kadaz and Shakka when they come out of that shop over there."
Mira then turns her attention fully on Evan.
Conner d20-2=10 Wednesday January 28th, 2004 11:16:05 PM
Conner knocks once on the door of Hrithgen's shop and enters. "Hello, anyone about?" If Hrithgen is there, the fighter will engage him in polite conversation before explaining his business.
"I've come from next door where the boy Kethlorn lies stricken. Baldis mentioned that your lad has run off. Perhaps we can be of assistance to you as well."[Diplomacy=10]
Uriel Thursday January 29th, 2004 12:42:00 AM
Uriel is confused that Evan thinks Mira can read his signs for a moment - until she explains he is only learning.
With that Uriel will move to follow Conner to Hrithgen's shop.
Kadaz Thursday January 29th, 2004 5:56:47 AM
Kadaz stands his ground, not fazed by the glaring woman in front of him. "Miss, maybe I could help you unpack. That way my presence would not slow you down. My name is Kadaz Guardson and I am especially good at the heavy items. I promise to be careful. And the poor child has already been taken to the Cathedral of Light with no success. We suspect a more malign hand at work here."
Arm d20+7=13 Thursday January 29th, 2004 5:58:11 AM
Arm enters Hrithgen's shop as well, and, assuming that he is present, adds to Conner's greeting, "yes, my kind sir...Baldis has mentioned that your son and his are friends. We are here to determine if the two incidents are connected, and offer our assistance to you.". {diplomacy=13}
Shakka Zul Thursday January 29th, 2004 8:06:09 PM
"And perhaps I could be of some use also ", Shakka says as he steps forward and cracks his knuckles. "Physical labor is good for a troubled soul."
DM Kathy Thursday January 29th, 2004 8:50:01 PM
The woman looks up, holding her finger on her place in the book, and sighs. "I'm not ready to unpack everything yet," she says, somewhat less irritably. "The walls aren't dry." She takes a deep breath, and seems to calm some more. "I'm sorry to hear that this child is so sick, but I don't see what it has to do with us. We just got this place a couple of days ago."
Meanwhile, Arm, Conner, and Uriel enter Hrithgen's shop. It is somewhat larger than Baldis's, and Hrithgen has set aside less work space, so there is much more room to display merchandise. Hrithgen is clearly a saddler; on the shelves and walls around you are a variety of saddles, bridles, harnesses, and saddlebags. Near the counter are riding crops and braided whips of varying lengths. The place smells overwhelmingly of leather.
Hrithgen himself is a tall, barrel-chested man a few years younger than Baldis. His hair is black, with a few silver strands glinting in the light. He greets you pleasantly enough, but scowls at the mention of Kethlorn and Baldis.
"So! Baldis has hired himself some adventurers. Nothing too good for that perfect son of his, I see. If you ask me, they had it coming, the two of them. All high and mighty just because that mealy-mouthed little saint never had the gumption to kick up his heels a little." He glares at you for a moment, then adds, "I've said it before and I'll say it again. I don't know why that kid's sick, and further, I don't care."
(A Sense Motive check might not be a bad idea at this point.)
Mira and Evan remain on the street, waiting for the party to join back up again.
It is now late afternoon.
Conner d20+1=9 d20+3=8 Thursday January 29th, 2004 10:22:38 PM
"Easy on there" Conner stiffens under the verbal onslaught, "We didn't say you were responsible for the boy's ills. We heard your son had run off and wanted to know if we could help you find him. Maybe the two things are related, thats all." Conner looks about the displayed wares for anything unusual and tries to judge the sincerity of the saddler [Sense motive=9; Spot=8].
Mira d20+2=14 d20+2=20 Thursday January 29th, 2004 10:49:01 PM
The sorcerer waits with Evan. She experiences an odd sense, as if an invisible wall around her thoughts has fallen away, and she is free to reach out with her mind...
Mira shakes her head, her reverie broken by raised voices from Hrithgen's shop. She tries hard to listen (Listen=14), and keeps her eyes open for anything unusual in the area (Spot=20).
If any of her companions exit into the street, she will wave them over.
Arm d20+7=21 d20=4 d20+2=6 Friday January 30th, 2004 6:01:49 AM
Arm tries his best to placate the outraged shopowner, "Be at ease, my friend...our intentions are entirely benevolent...yes, we were hired by Baldis to find a cure for his son, but we would like to help you as well. As a child, I was orphaned by an orcish raiding party...I am WELL aware of what it feels like to be without parents...you son must be terribly frightened and lonely, and I, for one, would like to help you find him.". After saying this, he approaches the man, holds out his hand, and says, "My name is Armathen Ebano, but you may call me Arm. It is my distinct pleasure to make your acquaintance.". {diplomacy=21} As he says this, Arm tries to get a feel for why this man is so angry {sense motive=4} while taking a cursory glance around the shop {spot=6}.
Kadaz d20-3=10 Friday January 30th, 2004 7:05:01 AM
Kadaz tries his best to be diplomatic in face of this woman's disinterest. "How many days ago? And was this shop empty when you moved in or did the previous owners move out just as you entered?" (diplomacy check 10)
Uriel d20+2=18 Friday January 30th, 2004 7:43:13 AM
Uriel looks sharply at the man{Sense Motive 18}. "I suppose that is attitude you wanted to receive from everyone who found out about your son? Disdain and pettiness are not what either you or Baldis need. You need help, and we are reaching out a hand to help. We ask not any money from you, I also have known the tragedy of the unexpected loss of a loved one. Can you put aside your differences and history with Baldis to help out two young men that may both need help desparately?" Uriel holds out his hand to shake, waiting.
Evan d20+6=22 Sunday February 1st, 2004 12:35:32 AM
Evan gazes at Mira with a curious, yet intense gaze. Oddly, for just a brief moment when Mira took his hands in her, he felt.......something, like a spark maybe, or a tingle. He smiles softly at the bemused expression on Mira's face then begins his gestures again, only this time much more slowly, pausing to repeat when it appears that Mira does not understand. I cannot ask questions without you or Uriel. And to be honest, you are much prettier! Evan waits, grinning, for Mira to catch up with what he said. I am not good with people. But I am good with evidence. Until we find evidence, I would like to stay with you. So that you can talk for me.
Evan also glances towards Hrithgen's shop, frowning at the raised voices. After determining that there is no danger in the raised voices, Evan begins to 'speak' again. I would like to follow the boy's backtrail. See where he was and who he saw before he fell into this endless sleep.
DM Kathy Sunday February 1st, 2004 8:41:05 PM
Impatiently, the woman brushes a strand of hair out of her face, leaving a grimy smudge behind. "Um...two days ago," she replies to Kadaz. "The place was empty when we got it. It's my understanding that it had been empty for some time." She looks around and sighs. "I hate to be rude, and I'm sorry if I snapped before, but I really have a lot to do. If there's nothing else--?"
Mira and Evan continue their conversation. Neither one notices anything unusual. Even the raised voices from Hrithgen's shop can barely be heard above the general bustle of the street.
Neither Connor nor Arm spots anything unusual in Hrithgen's shop, and both are inclined to take the saddler's brusque manner at face value. "There's nothing to be done about it," he says in response to their remarks. "Boy's run off and don't want to be found. And if he's scared and lonely, well, he knows where he lives."
Watching the man closely, Uriel realizes that this seeming callousness is Hrithgen's way of hiding the fear, worry, and guilt he feels about his son's disappearance. He also senses that Hrithgen only wishes he were indifferent to Kethlorn's suffering--that the boy's illness, coming on the heels of his own troubles, is almost more than he can stand.
"I've got no quarrel with Baldis," he says in response to Uriel. "Just don't like to see folk putting on airs is all." He glances around at all three of you. "And I don't know anything about why his boy's sick, so you're wasting your time with me."
Uriel Sunday February 1st, 2004 10:08:31 PM
"Hrithgen, then you don't want any help finding your son? We would be willing to make some inquiries on your behalf as well. We are not looking for money but only want to help you because it is the right thing to do." Uriel waits for his response.
Kadaz Sunday February 1st, 2004 10:40:25 PM
"And about two days ago is when the child went ill. And I'm sure he and his friends would have enjoyed playing in an empty building. If you happen come across anything you think may help him would let the leatherworker Baldis know.
Thank you for your time. We'll leave you to your setting up. My name is Kadaz. May I ask yours?"
Arm d20+7=17 Monday February 2nd, 2004 6:18:35 AM
Arm resigns himself to the fact that Hrithgen, even if he DOES know something, is either not willing or unable to share it with the group. In parting, he says to him, "Kind sir, if you should need to get in touch with us, we can be reached through Baldis next door. Also, if you would be so kind as to describe your son to us, the least we can do is keep an eye out for him in our travels.". {diplomacy=17}
Mira Monday February 2nd, 2004 8:15:53 AM
Mira notices that it is late afternoon, and wonders if there will be enough time to visit the Cathedral of Light before the place closes up to visitors. Hungry, she munches on some bread and cheese that she had found at the flat, and thought to pack in one of her belt pouches. She offers some of her food to Evan while they wait for the others.
She puzzles over the mysteries of the day, wondering what to do next.
Evan Monday February 2nd, 2004 9:56:01 AM
Evan motions for Mira to follow him. Now that Baldis and Zully have had a little time to them selves, a chance to sort of calm down, Evan needs to question them. He signs to Mira as they enter the store. I want to follow the boy's back trail. He laid down and went to sleep. Did he say or do anything different from normal? Was he as chatty as he normally is? Did he seem overly quiet or boisterous? What did he do before he went to bed? Did he act noramlly at dinner? Was he home all day? If not, where did he go? Who did he see? I want to know everything the boy did, everywhere he went and everyone he saw. I want to know if there was anythingno matter how insignificant that was different about the boy today. Evan motions for Mira to ask Baldis and Zully his questions.
Conner Monday February 2nd, 2004 5:37:06 PM
Conner has heard and seen enough. "Good luck to you then" he says to Hrithgen and leaves the shop.
DM Kathy Monday February 2nd, 2004 10:02:46 PM
"My name is Maline," the woman replies. "It's nice to meet you, but now I really must get back to my work." She bends her head once more over the book.
Hrithgen shrugs at Uriel's question. "I suppose it won't hurt to ask around," he says. His air of studied indifference is a poor mask for the hope that flared suddenly in his eyes. "I thank you for your concern." He bids the others farewell as they leave.
Baldis willingly recounts Kethlorn's last day of health. "He got up, as usual, helped get Zully off to school, then came down and helped in the shop all day. I didn't send him on any errands, so he and I were there the whole time, working. Well," he seems to remember something, "I did leave him in the shop for about a half an hour while I got a bite to eat at noon. Afterward, he told me that he'd had one customer--a woman we know. Her daughter is at school with Zully and had been asking for a leather satchel like Zully's. She haggled for a bit over the price, then said 'we'll see,' and left. She hasn't been back so far." He shakes his head. "That's everything. After work we had supper and played for a bit with Zully, then went to bed." He chokes a bit. "And the next morning---" he breaks off and does not continue.
Kadaz Monday February 2nd, 2004 10:09:40 PM
Kadaz leaves Maline to her work with a final "Good bye" and returns to the leatherworker's shop to join the others. Once there he will relate what he has found (a lot of nothing).
Uriel Tuesday February 3rd, 2004 12:14:25 AM
"We will let you know if we find anything, Hrithgen. I am sorry that he has gone missing."
With that Uriel leaves the shop and looks for the others so they can regroup.
Arm d20+7=13 Tuesday February 3rd, 2004 5:54:24 AM
After leaving the shop, Arm notices Mira and Evan in Baldis' shop, and saunters in to catch the bulk of the conversation. After which, Arm says to Baldis, "Thank you for your time and information. If you should think of anything, you know where we can be reached, and we will certainly be in touch with you when we find out something. Stout heart, my friend....you are not alone in this.".{diplomacy=13} After saying so, he leaves the shop and waits expectantly for the rest of the group to follow. "We are going 'round like the wheels on a wagon....we MUST be missing something, but what?" he thinks to himself as he waits.
Mira Tuesday February 3rd, 2004 5:35:06 PM
Mira shares what information she has gathered and her observations with the group. Sighing, she says, "I agree with you Arm, this is a difficult puzzle." Mira looks at the sun, and by it's position tries to gauge the time of day, before volunteering, "I would like to speak with the healer at the Cathedral of Light. Chersy Whiteberry, I believe. Even if she could not wake the boy from his sleep, she may know something about the nature of the curse." The sorcerer lowers her voice, so that only her companions can hear what she has to say, "if we could learn the type and nature of the curse, we might have a better idea of it's provenance and could narrow our search."
Conner Tuesday February 3rd, 2004 6:08:12 PM
Conner returns to Baldis' shop where he waits outside and keeps an eye on the street. The fighter is frustrated by the day's events and is anxious to regroup and discuss what has been learned, hopefully over an ale!
Shakka Zul Tuesday February 3rd, 2004 7:07:23 PM
With dismay Shakka follows Kadaz back to the others.
Evan Tuesday February 3rd, 2004 9:04:15 PM
Evan takes out another piece of precious paper and folds it so that it will provide its own support so that he can write on it. After listening to the reports from the others, he makes a list of possible clues they have that can still be persued. The Healer; the not yet opened shop, building needs exploring when tenant is out, is there any way to find out who past history of building; woman who came to shop at lunch when the boy was by himself
Evan show the list to the others, hoping that perhaps they might be able to think of something he hasn't. Evan also notices how late its getting and wonders where the day has gone. He still needs to take poor Ariel out for a run.
DM Kathy Tuesday February 3rd, 2004 9:55:18 PM
The team meets up on Saddler's Row and compares notes. They seem to have exhausted the possibilities on this street--except for that shop at the end that might bear watching.
There are still several possible leads to follow, though, including the healer at the Cathedral, the list of customers, the woman that came in the day before Kethlorn was stricken, and the fletcher who was robbed.
The shadows have grown long, and a few shops are already closing for the day, though most remain open. There is, perhaps, time to follow up on one more lead before the end of the day.
On the other hand, you began your investigation at noon, and those of you who ran errands in the morning probably had no lunch. Bellies are beginning to growl, and the occasional cooking smell wafting into the street from nearby apartments only makes the need more acute. And Evan, for one, still has chores to be done today.
So, what is the next move? Visit one more potential lead, or fuel up and start fresh tomorrow?
Mira d20+2=19 Tuesday February 3rd, 2004 11:22:47 PM
Mira sighs. Trail rations, and a little bread and cheese have staved off hunger, but the smell of home cooking makes her mouth water. "How about we head back to the flat and review the names on the list, and the clues we've collected thus far. We can get something to eat, and figure what to do next." The sorcerer tries to read the faces of her companions, before continuing (Sense Motive=19), "we can start fresh early tomorrow morning."
Mira is secretly worried that the longer the boy is asleep, the more dangerous it could be for him, on the other hand, he might make a spontaneous recovery. She makes a mental note to ask the healer at the cathedral if she has ever observed anyone under such a curse, and what happened.
Uriel d20=13 Tuesday February 3rd, 2004 11:57:57 PM
"Sounds good, Mira. I need to train a bit still and I am getting hungry. I vote on going back to the flat."
{Obscure Motive=13 - just kidding!}
Arm Wednesday February 4th, 2004 5:52:02 AM
Arm nods in agreement, "Aye, Mira, I think that it be best we call it a day. Even though time is most important, we can't be expected to think clearly with leaden eyes and empty stomachs. If you and Evan wish to head straight back, I'll head to the inn and bring food back. That way we can all plan while we eat, then retire early, and attack tomorrow anew. Anyone with me?".
Kadaz Wednesday February 4th, 2004 6:23:56 AM
Kadaz mulls over the options. "I agree that we are done asking questions for the day. But I think we should set a watch over the boy and his house. I suggest two of us stay until midnight or so, and then two others replace them. I volunteer for first watch. Anyone else?"
Conner Wednesday February 4th, 2004 7:50:03 AM
"Yes, lets return to the flat. I would like to review what we have learned before setting out again. Kadaz, what danger do you forsee for the boy that would require a watch?"
Conner will volunteer for first watch if the group agrees that Kadaz's suggestion is prudent...Besides, first watch should end just as Amy ends her shift at the inn.
Shakka Zul Wednesday February 4th, 2004 7:06:06 PM
"Being a morning person I like the idea of starting fresh tommorrow", Shakka says. "But If we require a watch I would be happy to volunteer".
DM Kathy Wednesday February 4th, 2004 8:55:58 PM
The group decides to call it a day and heads back to their lodgings. Arm, as promised, stops at the inn to procure a nice hot dinner.
You all finish your other chores, eat, relax, and discuss strategy for the following day.
If you keep a watch on Baldis's shop, you notice nothing untoward untill full dark. After full dark it becomes more difficult to watch the place--first, because it's dark, and second, because the Guard patrols after nightfall and they really don't like to see adventurers loitering in an otherwise peaceful street. Thanks to Kadaz, though, you can persuade them to let you keep watch all night--if that's what you want to do. You see nothing to cause alarm.
The main question of the evening is tomorrow's itinerary (please post your ideas; post more than once if you need to).
Mira Wednesday February 4th, 2004 9:58:19 PM
Mira looks through the journal that Connor won at the Giggling Ghost midwinter party, and in which Evan has been keeping such meticulous notes.
"It might be a good idea to call on this Gylfi Scrummelschindt, the fletcher, as well as Lady Teeli and Malvo. They are all customers who seem to have called on Baldis' shop around the time of the boy's 'illness'." The sorcerer glances at Uriel thinking the paladin might be interested in what she will say next, "but I will voice once again my desire to visit the Cathedral of Light." The sorcerer pauses, then gives her explanation, "if we could learn the nature of the boy's affliction, the level or degree of magic required to inflict such a curse, it might better help us narrow our search, to one who has the ability."
When Arm shows up with dinner, Mira smiles warmly at him, anxious to see what he has brought back.
Conner Wednesday February 4th, 2004 11:21:16 PM
"You say this Maline has just moved into the shop? I wonder if the city guard can tell us who owned it before her and if anyone had been using the place while it was empty? The other lead worth following is the woman who visited Baldis shop looking for a satchel"
Conner listens to the others while he eats his meal and then leaves to keep an eye on the boy's home. When he is relieved he stops in at Sampson's to see Amy.
Arm Thursday February 5th, 2004 5:58:28 AM
Arm brings back enough food for the group, and although it isn't as hearty as a hot "sit-down" meal, it serves to quell their appetites, at least until breakfast.
After eating, Arm says, "I think our first order of business tomorrow is to go visit the cathedral, however the issue of the unoccupied building bears some merit, too....Kadaz, perhaps some of your guard friends can help us with that? Afterwards, I say that we meet back here, then move on to the fletcher and then Lady Teeli and Malvo...if we split up to do these, we can accomplish much.".
Kadaz Thursday February 5th, 2004 6:10:07 AM
"That's a good idea, Arm. I will try to find out who owned the empty shop. And at noon I'll be back here to share information. But I don't want to go to the guard as I am afraid that if I ask for too many favors that well will dry up. Instead I will talk to the shop owners on either side of Maline's shop."
"Any one want to go with me?"
Uriel Thursday February 5th, 2004 9:34:08 AM
"I also am very keen on seeing the Cathedral of Light. I wanted to go yesterday but I got too distracted I guess..." {:)} Uriel shrugs, "The other leads sound like areas of possible interest as well, but let's start with the Cathederal."
Arm Thursday February 5th, 2004 5:54:31 PM
Arm replies to Kadaz, "I shall accompany you, my fried. That sounds like the best plan of action at the moment.".
Evan Thursday February 5th, 2004 6:09:32 PM
Much to Evan's dismay, he realizes that he has no choice but to find boarding for his precious companion. A very small, yet niggling voice is telling him that he may be forced to release Ariel back to the wild. Keeping her in a stable will only break her spirit and Evan cannot allow his own selfishness to cause such harm to Ariel. Once he has taken care of Ariel, he returns to the house, stopping along the way to procure some more firewood. No sense in returning empty handed.
Evan listens to the many ideas that are being passed around. Obviously, he will be accompanying Uriel and Mira when they go to the Catherdral of Light. Evan smiles a secret smile at the idea of being able to spend more time with Mira. She is so very pretty and smart. Look at how quickly she is picking up on his sign language. Evan is still a bit amazed that such a pretty woman would want to take the time to get to know him as Mira is doing.
Of all the clues they have so far, Evan feels that the most lucretive ones are the ex-empty building, and the woman who was one of the last people to see the boy awake.
Evan-ooc Thursday February 5th, 2004 6:12:34 PM
(How much will it cost to board Ariel for a month?)
Uriel Thursday February 5th, 2004 7:23:04 PM
{Evan - if you make your intentions known to us all then the following will be said.} Uriel suggests, "Evan, it may be in the surrounding countryside there is stable with large fields to allow the animals to free graze..."
Mira Thursday February 5th, 2004 7:46:47 PM
Mira listens to all the good ideas. She smiles at Uriel and Evan, "No one should go anywhere alone. While one of us makes enquiries, the others can always observe and pick up details the interviewer might miss." The sorcerer continues, "Yes! Excellent idea Kadaz. You and Arm will make a good team. Now, Conner and Shakka, will you be a part of one of our groups, or do you wish to check out a lead? Regardless, after we make our enquiries, we will rendez-vous back here at noon."
Conner Thursday February 5th, 2004 9:52:08 PM
"I shall go with Kadaz. There is more to that old building than meets the eye I'll wager"
DM Kathy Thursday February 5th, 2004 9:59:34 PM
(OOC: I think Ariel's board would be convered under normal upkeep.)
The next morning, the group splits up to pursue different leads. Mira, Evan, and Uriel head for the Cathedral of Light while Kadaz, Arm, and Connor head back to the odd little shop.
When they reach the shop, they see that Maline has not been idle. The mismatched furniture appears to be in place, and a large map of the Wold has been tacked up on the wall. Maline herself is kneeling next to a large bookshelf, pulling books out of a wooden crate and shelving them. Like yesterday, she is wearing a large apron over her dress, but this one is clean--so far. Her hair is uncovered today, twisted into a shining knot at the nape of her neck. She looks up when she hears you come in.
"Oh, it's you," she says, apparantly recognizing Kadaz. "How's that little boy doing?" She does not stop shelving, but she sounds genuinely interested.
Meanwhile, the others are approaching their goal. Built of light gray stone, the famed Cathedral stands by itself on an island in the river. It is an impressive sight, towering over its neighbors, visible from nearly any point in the city. Four spires, one at each corner, climb higher still, as if seeking entry to the heavens themselves. Each is capped with a gold finial in the shape of Alemi's symbol. The building sits amid extensive grounds, criscrossed by numerous paths. Outbuildings are scattered here and there.
As you move onto the island itself, you can see the statues that decorate the cathedral's exterior at ground level--famed Woldian heroes, noted healers, and Alemic paladins. When you get closer still, you can make out the bas-relief murals that decorate the walls between the statues.
You enter through the massive front doors and find yourselves in the main temple. Here, vaulted arches soar to impossible heights and every sound seems to echo forever. Daylight streams through skylights in the far-away roof and illuminates the interior. Hundreds of prisms, hung throughout the temple, catch beams of light and refract them, sending colors dancing over the floor, walls, and benches. Stained-glass windows in the walls provide still more colored light, which splashes in patterns on the tile floor. Banks of candles set between the windows stand ready to fill the room with another kind of light when the sun goes down.
You are directed through a side door into the infirmary. The ceiling here is at a more manageable level, although there is still plenty of light. You enter in a small foyer. There are chairs and benches scattered about, and a large, official-looking desk. A half-elf man sits behind the desk, and behind him, another door presumably leads to the infirmary proper. Off to one side of the desk, clear of the benches, a small area has been enclosed with a decorative rail--about waist-high to a halfling. Small signs are affixed to the rail at intervals: "Teleport area. Please keep clear."
The half-elf looks up at you with a smile. "Yes? What can I help you with today?"
(OOC: I'll need some kind of marching order for each group. And everybody make a Spot check please.)
Kadaz d20+1=3 Thursday February 5th, 2004 10:20:45 PM
Kadaz glances around at the furnished shop. But his attention is focused on the woman in front of him and he barely notices if there's a ceiling on top of the walls. (spot check 3).
"Good morning Miss Maline. I'm afraid to say that I haven't heard of any change in the child's condition. Thank you for your concern."
"We're investigating every possibility and I was wondering if you had any idea what this shop was used for before you took it over. I know it was empty, but for how long? And when you were cleaning it did you uncover any small toys or items that young children might have played with and left behind?"
"By the way, are you a bookseller?"
OOC: I'm going to assume that Kadaz is first in this group with Birdie at his side. Since he probably the shortest (at 4'4") the others can see over him.
Evan d20+6=16 Thursday February 5th, 2004 10:58:12 PM
Allowing Uriel to lead, Evan walks with Mira, unconsciously allowing his arm, or hip to brush against Mira as he continues to teach Mira his sign language. Upon reaching the Cathedral, Evan's natural curiousity has him trying to look at everything at once. He occasionally falls behind as he stops to study a statue or read an inscription then bolts to catch up. He has the feeling he could easily get into some kind of trouble here if he isn't careful. He is a bit curious about Alemi, although he tends to favor Flower more when praying to the Gods. Although...he is rather fond of the flask of holy water with Alemi's holy symbol on it that he got for Yule.
(spot-16)
Uriel d20+4=19 Friday February 6th, 2004 1:13:06 AM
Uriel will take the lead, examining everything with an appropriate sense of reverence for this great place of worship.
In his most respectful voice, Uriel says, "Hello, sir. We wish to speak with one of your healers. A particular healer by the name of Chersy Whiteberry. Would it be possible to see her?"
Uriel Friday February 6th, 2004 1:13:34 AM
{OOC: Didn't point out my spot roll of 19, sorry}
Conner d20+3=19 Friday February 6th, 2004 10:09:31 PM
Conner stands by the door of the shop and listens to the conversation between Kadaz and Maline. He keeps an eye out for any potential trouble, and if he spots any children of Kethlorn's age he will take note of what they are doing. [Spot=19]
Mira d20+2=8 d20+5=24 Saturday February 7th, 2004 8:44:41 PM
Mira walks a little to one side and behind Uriel as they pass through the elegant structure. She is distracted by the artistry of the stained glass windows, and then the sectioned off space indicating the teleport area. (Spot=8) Her attention is brought back to the task at hand, by Uriel's assured voice. Mira smiles at the clerk in return, and adds her voice (Diplomacy=24), "Yes! If the shepherdess of Alemi could spare a moment of her time, we seek information in order to help a boy struck by a rare affliction."
DM Kathy Monday February 9th, 2004 12:38:06 AM
(OOC: I know this is late, and I apologize; I was held up elsewhere)
Maline continues setting books on their shelves. "I'm afraid I don't know anything about what was here before," she replies. "I'm from out of town myself. The landlord would probably know--Jelzix Otterbrook. He has an office in the Wealthy Quarter."
"Toys? No, I didn't find anything like that. Candle ends and dust. Lots and lots of dust."
She smiles. "No, we're not a bookseller. These books are reference material for our members, or for those who have purchased our services. This is the Plateau City branch of the Society for Draconic Research. Or it will be once I get everything unpacked."
The half-elf smiles and says, "Certainly. I'll see if she's available." He disappears into the infirmary and comes back a minute or so later. "She'll be right with you," he says, and resumes his post.
You wait for a bit more, and then a middle-aged halfling woman comes bustling out to greet you. Her greying hair is pulled back into a bun; her dark eyes sparkle with warmth and good humor. "Yes?" she says. "I am Chersy Whiteberry. What did you want to see me about?"
When you tell her of your errand, a look of sadness comes over her face. "That poor boy. Yes, of course. Come with me and I'll tell you all I can."
She leads you through the infirmary door. You get only a vague impression of a light-filled room, several cots, and the faint, coppery smell of blood before she whisks you into a small parlor and invites you to sit. She retrieves a small leatherbound notebook from her apron pocket and begins searching through it as she speaks.
"I remember the case, of course. His father brought him in around midmorning. Let's see...ah, here we are." She glances over the entry, giving you the gist as she goes. "Pulse and breathing normal, if a little slow...pupils react normally to light...no sign of fever or poison." She looks up at you. "But that much I'm sure you've ascertained for yourselves. Let me see...I performed the standard divinations and discovered a faint aura of magic and of evil. I performed a Remove Curse, but nothing happened."
She pauses, considering for a moment. "It's very odd," she says. "I've had spells fizzle, you know, dears, and I have encountered the resistance when evil magicks oppose the blessings of Lord Alemi. This didn't feel like either of those things. It's as if--as if the spell didn't have anything to affect. Very strange."
She sighs, and consults her notes again. "I then performed a Cure Disease and a Dispell Magic with the same result." She thinks again for a moment, tapping one finger absently on the journal entry. "I don't have anything to back this up," she says, "but in my opinion this curse--whatever it is--can only be removed by whoever cast it. I've never seen such a thing myself, but I have heard rumors...well, who knows."
She looks around at each of you. "Did you have any other questions?"
Arm d20+2=18 Monday February 9th, 2004 5:11:47 AM
Arm smiles warmly at Maline, content to allow Kadaz to do the talking for the moment, but all the while his eyes are alert for any possible clues {spot=18}.
Arm Monday February 9th, 2004 5:13:38 AM
OOC: sorry....forgot my place in the marching order...Arm is standing behind and slightly to the right of Kadaz.
Kadaz Monday February 9th, 2004 6:19:15 AM
Kadaz ponders what he has just learned. "We will certainly visit Jelzix Otterbrook today. Thanks for the information. I'm just curious here but what is the Society for Draconic Research? I've never heard of that before."
Evan Monday February 9th, 2004 6:05:51 PM
Evan taps Mira on the wrist and begins to sign to her. When she signals for him to slow down, he taps Uriel's elbow to get his attention as well then begins to sign again. Ask her if the results she got could be due to the boy's soul being somewhere else, for instance if it had been captured by something.
Uriel Monday February 9th, 2004 6:36:09 PM
Uriel will relay Evan's thoughts to the healer. Then he says, "I am sorry, Master Healer, for my ignorance...What would be the nature or profession of a person with the ability to prevent healing except by their own hand?" Uriel waits in deference to Master Whiteberry.
Mira Monday February 9th, 2004 6:51:31 PM
Mira nods in agreement when Uriel advances his question. The sorcerer adds, "could you elaborate on the rumours you have heard? We are willing to track down any lead in order to help this poor boy."
Mira watches Evan make his signs, but she still isn't fluent in his language of dancing hands. She fishes around for paper and an implement for writing, which she offers to the ranger with an apologetic smile. "Evan, take heart. I will soon be able to understand as well as speak your language, although at this time I am not proficient."
Conner d20+3=14 Monday February 9th, 2004 6:57:05 PM
The fighter stays where he is, one eye on the street and one eye on his friends as they speak with Maline. (Spot=14) He mentally files away the name of Jelzix Otterbrook.
DM Kathy Monday February 9th, 2004 9:11:04 PM
"We're a guild of sorts," Maline replies to Kadaz. "Made up of people interested in learning more about dragons. Not all of them are evil, rapacious beasts, no matter what popular legend may tell you. We spend some time, too, researching the phenomenon of part-dragon offspring, like King Claudia's poor children."
The healer can only shake her head. "Such a person would have to be a spellcaster, obviously," she replies to Uriel. "Other than that, I really couldn't say. As for rumors," she continues, "well, there are rumors of a kind of spell that can only be removed by the caster. Such things have been circulating for years and I always dismissed them as mere fables, but now..." She sighs. "I can't give you specifics, I'm afraid. And as I said, this is only my own notion. I have nothing to back it up."
Edited: (Sorry, I forgot to answer Evan's question). "I couldn't say for sure," Chersy says. "The soul is very difficult to detect, and it's certainly one possible explanation of how the curse functions. My heart, though, tells me that the boy's soul is right where it belongs."
Mira Tuesday February 10th, 2004 12:31:39 AM
Feeling like they have encountered another dead-end, the sorcerer tries to keep a smile on her face as she thanks the healer, but deep down, she is troubled. A spellcaster...and likely an evil one she thinks to herself who else would curse a young boy?
Mira suggests that the three of them return to the flat and share what little information they have gathered with the others. "I hope the others have been more successful than we have" she says to Uriel and Evan, once they are out of earshot of the healer and the half-elf receptionist.
Conner d20+2=16 d20+3=14 Tuesday February 10th, 2004 12:37:20 AM
From his position near the door, Conner feigns nonchalance as he cleans his nails with an old shield spike. His senses are alert, however, to anything out of the ordinary. (Listen=16, Spot=14)
Arm d20+2=9 d20+2=21 Tuesday February 10th, 2004 5:58:45 AM
Arm now diverts his attention from Maline to their surroundings. While waiting for Kadaz to finish his conversation, he scans the area for possible clues {listen=9, spot=21}.
Uriel Tuesday February 10th, 2004 8:15:25 AM
"Thank you for your time, Master Whiteberry. May we call upon you again if any more questions arise?" Uriel asks.
After they leave the cathedral, Uriel turns to the others. "And a powerful caster of spells as well. What does it all mean? I guess we need to see if the others came up with anything and then brainstorm to see if anything else comes to us," Uriel turns to look at the others, "shall we go await our companions at the apartment?"
Kadaz Tuesday February 10th, 2004 5:41:11 PM
"Thank you for the information," Kadaz says to Maline, "it's very interesting. But now I think we should leave you to your job."
Kadaz walks out of the store and then turns to Arm and Connor. "We will have to check out this Jelzix Otterbrook but I'm not sure we have time to do so before we are supposed to meet the others. How about we ask the neighboring shopkeepers about how long this store was vacant and its previous tenants? What do you think?"
Evan Tuesday February 10th, 2004 8:36:21 PM
Evan walks with Mira and Uriel, listening as they discuss what they learned from the Healer. He takes the paper Mira gave him and writes. Maybe instead of trying to figure out who, we should try and figure out why. Why would a powerful spellcaster care about a merchant's son? Does maybe his dad owe somebody some money, or perhaps he has come into possesion of something somebody wants. Only problem with that idea is nobody has contacted dad with a demand. What if it's not a person that has done this? What if its some kind of magical trap?
DM Kathy Tuesday February 10th, 2004 8:58:41 PM
Mira, Evan, and Uriel leave the Cathedral and begin heading back toward their lodgings. Their path leads through the Guild Quarter, where Kadaz, Connor, and Arm are just leaving the shop.
You take the opportunity to catch each other up on the morning's happenings, then discuss strategy for the afternoon. There are several possible leads to be followed up--but just now it's lunchtime, and some of you are hungry.
Mira Wednesday February 11th, 2004 12:08:45 AM
The sorcerer listens to what Kadaz, Conner, and Arm have to say about Maline and the Society for Draconic Research. She shivers a little as the hairs go up on the back of her neck. As she reaches up to clasp her pendant in the now familiar gesture of nervousness, she catches Evan's gaze, and holds his eyes for a while, before hanging her head and staring at the pattern of the cobblestones under her feet.
Conner d20+3=19 Wednesday February 11th, 2004 12:13:24 AM
"I could use a meal, and a drink," volunteers the fighter as he scans the store fronts for a tavern. If we could find the local watering hole, we might be able to interview the local gossips?" he adds with a wink.
Arm Wednesday February 11th, 2004 5:08:53 AM
Arm nods in agreement to Conner's statement, "Aye, I could use with a bit of food myself....why don't we grab a quick bite, then some of us can head back here to continue our questioning while the rest goes on to the other places of interest?".
Kadaz Wednesday February 11th, 2004 8:14:18 AM
Kadaz reaches down and pats Birdie on the head. "We're hungry too. Sounds good."
Uriel Wednesday February 11th, 2004 9:39:11 AM
"So where are we in this investigation?" asks Uriel. "We still don't have a motive or a suspect. We don't have a clear understanding of the way the child was ensorcelled. Hmm." Uriel shrugs and runs his hands through his hair a few times.
"Do we have any other leads to follow through on? I suggested early on that we might check with the rogues of the city. Maybe we could see if the Watch has seen any sign of Kethlorn's missing friend?"
Evan Wednesday February 11th, 2004 7:39:15 PM
Evan falls into Mira's gaze, a soft smile of delight coming to his lips. When Mira looks awy and hangs her head, he wonders for a moment why she should be so sad. Ever since the dreams began, Evan feels as if he knows Mira far better than he should. Evan studies Mira as she listens to the others then makes a decision. He reaches out to put a hand on Mira's wrist, holding he back so as to let the others continue ahead.
Once the others are far enough ahead that he can carry on a private conversation with Mira, Evan begins to walk, motioning to Mira an invitation to walk with him. He points at Mira then makes a sad face. He follows this up with a question mark.
DM Kathy d20+8=12 d20+8=20 Wednesday February 11th, 2004 9:17:10 PM
You manage to find an inn nearby, and in the cool, dimly-lit interior you enjoy a quick meal and make plans for the afternoon.
On the way in, Uriel, Conner, Arm, and Evan notice a human fellow hanging around near the inn's entrance. He seems at first to be just one of the crowd, but he is trying a bit too hard to be nonchalant.
When he sees that you've spotted him, he turns and disappears into the crowd.
(I'll need Spot checks and a marching order whenever you leave the inn.)
Mira d20+2=10 Wednesday February 11th, 2004 9:48:54 PM
When Evan holds her back by the wrist, Mira brings her hand up to grasp his. She willingly stays at the back of the group to talk with the ranger. "I've been plagued by dreams of dragons," she says sadly, "and they always end poorly for me. I never seem to get where I want to go." Mira shrugs her shoulders, and makes a tiny sad smile. Then, her eyes brighten, and twinkle with mishief. She brings her face close to his and whispers in his ear, "and sometimes, I dream about you!" Mira gives Evan's hand another squeeze, and pushes her glasses back up her nose with her free hand.
Later, as the group take their meal, she wonders aloud, "Powerful magic, a spell or curse that can only be undone by he who set it upon the boy. No known motive. No prior threat to the family. The names of some customers, none who appear to be disgruntled. An empty shop, where the boy may have played, now taken over by a research group (probably all mages!) A runaway boy. Does any of this make any sense?" Mira pushes the remains of her meal around, her lips pursed and her brow furrowed as she tries to piece the puzzle together.
When they leave the inn, Mira will try to stay close to Evan (at the back? of the group) she takes some care to keep an eye on where she is going, but with her mind pre-occupied with the mystery, she takes in just enough of the sights not to loose her way in the city. (Spot=10)
Uriel d20+4=22 Wednesday February 11th, 2004 10:06:35 PM
{OOC: What was the appearance of the fellow? Was he completely nondescript (i.e. did he seem like he was trying to be a pro)? Did it look like he was wearing artisan's garb, etc...}
After Uriel finishes his meal, he turns to the others. "Well, it appears we have attracted some attention by our questions... we should see if we are being followed by trying to shadow our shadower. Does anyone have any skill at shadowing? So, we send out a couple of people to go to the market, but we leave like we have a purpose. If we are followed, then someone follows our follower."
"Anyone else have any ideas? I volunteer to be with the first group." {When we leave, Uriel would like to be first or second rank - spot check = 22}
Arm d20+2=20 Thursday February 12th, 2004 6:14:11 AM
After finishing his meal, Arm addresses Uriel's statement, "I fear that questioning the rogues would not be the best plan, for, as Kadaz said, they charge for their knowledge, and it is at best unreliable. Therefore we may end up spinning in cirles even more than we are now. I think it best if we follow up on the fletcher that was robbed and the lady who inquired with Baldis about the bag...they may not seem like much, but it's all we have right now.".
Arm continues, "I am not all that knowledgeable of the roguely ways, but I'd be glad to try my hand at observing our new "admirer". When we leave, I shall leave with you all, then feign interest in something in the shop next door. Since we have 2 objectives to investigate, there is only 1 of him, as far as we know anyway. If we split up he can follow only one of our groups. I shall attempt to keep a discreet distance behind him, but if the other group wants to observe his actions, they should keep a keen eye out to see if he is following them...if not, then they can catch up with me and follow him as well if they choose....albeit not as a group because that would definitely alert him to our plan.". {spot upon leaving=20}
Kadaz d20+1=8 d20+5=15 Thursday February 12th, 2004 10:17:19 AM
Kadaz and Birdie eat lunch and listen to the conversation about what approach to take. He thinks through the situation then offers his opinion. He holds up his hand and extends and drops fingers as he makes and then discusses each point.
"Mira, here is how I see it. If Kethlorn was chosen at random to be cursed then there is little chance our investigations will yield anything. And no logical path will take us to the answer. But if was not random, then either he saw something or he is being used as a pawn to pressure a family member. Let's look at each of these possiblities."
"If Kethlorn saw or learned something his curse may be a way to prevent him from passing along that knowledge. But why use what seems to be a powerful magic? You say the cleric at the temple tried several magical cures which should have succeeded. This means the caster of the curse was more powerful. If so, why not simply kill the child to ensure silence? Does anyone here see the benefit to a powerful evil person to spending the energy and effort on this curse (which might be broken in the future) as opposed to killing the child?"
"But the other possibility is that Kethlorn is a pawn and his condition is a threat to someone in the family. Baldis seems to be a simple tradesman. But what about the mother? Grandparents or other relatives?"
Kadaz leans back and sips slowly at his ale and absently mindely pets Birdie. "What about the possbility of mistaken identity? Could Kethlorn look like another boy in the neighborhood who was the real target?"
"I think we have more questions to ask of the neighbors. But I'd also like to tie up the question of Jelzix Otterbrook in the Wealthy Quarter. So we have two paths to investigate. I suggest that the more presentable of us go to Jelzix. They'll have better luck getting in. The rest return to the child's neighborhood and follow up on Uriel's suggestions."
"And Arm, you say someone was following us? We must be getting close to something. I just wish we knew what it was."
As they leave the inn Kadaz is mulling over these possibilities. Being short and squat he prefers to lead the group. This allows the next person to look over him, doesn't leave Kadaz looking at the ass of the person in front of him, and allows Kadaz to set a pace that is confortable for his stride.
As they leave the inn Kadaa glances around but his mind is on other things and he notices nothing out of the ordinary. (spot 8) Birdie, however, is much more observant and discovers some quite interesting smelly trash. (spot 15)
Conner d20+3=18 d20+1=11 Thursday February 12th, 2004 9:07:45 PM
Conner makes quick work of a ploughman's lunch and washes the bread, cheese, and sausage down with a mug of ale. He wipes the froth from his lips with the back of his sleeve and listens as the others explore options.
"There is one more possibility to consider before we leave...that more than one pair of eyes waits for us beyond the door. If there is a backdoor to this place we might slip out and see what awaits."
Conner will ask the barkeep if another way out exists and if so will scout it out [Search=11]. If the way seems clear he will return to the table and inform teh rest of the party. Otherwise he will leave with the rest, as close to the front of the party as possible, alert to any awaiting danger [Spot=18].
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