Arrival - DM Marcin d100=69 d100=66 d100=41 d100=75 [Matthias' teleport rolls] Monday August 2nd, 2004 2:30:52 AM
The letter is checked for scent. It seems that the page of paper has passed from hands to hands since it has been dropped off at the Temple, but there is no prevalent scent to be singled out. Nothing smells even remotely like Blackwing's handkerchief.
Some of the party treat the letter with understandable suspicion. After reading the message herself and listening to Tratain Kiriana replies:
"I can't think of anyone in our employ who would match the little details mentioned in here. I think your estimate that there are just two weeks left of the time offered to you is correct."
"I think it might be a trap. And even if it isn't, your hard work is much more needed here than on some errant quest."
Seeing that the discussion is over, the old gnome motions for the party to join hands once again. Then the wizard intones his magic in a deep, bass voice, not very fitting someone who is less than four feet tall.
Matthias takes five persons with him first, and then comes back for the remaining heroes. The sensations experienced by both groups are the same.
The familiar feeling of disorientation and passing nausea washes over the party yet again. The main hall of the temple blurs and for a moment it feels as if the heroes were standing in a dense fog. Then, suddenly, a gust of wind brings new smells: the smell of fields of wheat, blooming apple trees, and summer time in the countryside.
The party is standing on a grassy hill, giving the heroes a beautiful view of the surrounding countryside. As far as the eye can see the region is sprinkled with farms, orchards, and tilled fields. A road winds around the hill. A string of usual rural traffic (carts, riders, people herding animals) passes slowly but steadily in both directions.
As the heroes follow the road with their eyes they notice that, not far ahead, it reaches shores of a river. Judging by the brownish-yellow color the water is rather muddy. There is a bridge there and the traffic has solidified there to the point of a jam.
A small grove of trees stands on this side of the river. Right opposite to it on the other side of the road somebody has set up a camp of white and green tents.
And there, on the other side of the bridge, stands the town.
Surrounded by a sturdy wall that has been reinforced with towers on regular intervals the settlement seems to be ready should less peaceful times ever come back to the valley. This impression is further strengthened when one notices that a fortified keep is part of the town's defensive network. Bright banners fly from its battlements. The only opening that has been left in the line of fortifications is on the shore of the river, where industrious halflings have constructed docks for river barges.
Standing on the hill the Hamleters are able to see roofs of the buildings inside the town. The houses have been erected densely and in a somewhat chaotic way, in a manner characteristic to the halflings. Smoke rises to the air from tens of chimneys.
Matthias smiles and points.
"Angel Springs."
Then the gnome uses teleport for the fourth time and is gone.
Renik Monday August 2nd, 2004 7:29:05 AM
The rogue looks about. "Well, this seems idyllic enough. I suppose the first question is how to gain access to the town without attracting too much attention. If my previous experience of halflings is anything to by the gossip network will have reported us entering the city gates halfway across the known Wold before we know of it ourselves."
Feng Monday August 2nd, 2004 7:58:58 AM
"Perhaps what I suggested before isn't out of the question. I can summon forth Degg and ride into town. He and I should draw all kinds of attention making it easier for everybody else to get into town."
Setanos Monday August 2nd, 2004 12:41:58 PM "I'm for lettin ya try that Feng, but the word was all of us ta be keeping a low profile here. Do ya see any reason why we canna be just walking along tha road inta town?" Setanos says with a look towards the river. "It seems ta be a welcomin enough place, an there be alot o people comming in now."
Draax Monday August 2nd, 2004 5:30:34 PM
"Setanos does have a point. Why don't we check out those tents and see if we can get a feel for what to expect in town. At least the people in the tents can tell us where people our size can be put up for a few days. We do not know how long we will need to be here and may need to use Feng's idea in the future if we need to divert the citizen attention."
Gaxx Monday August 2nd, 2004 5:37:31 PM
Gaxx nods in agreement with Setanos then hitches his backpack up better on his back. He begins to walk towards the road, idly wondering if there is a toll at the bridge. As he walks he keeps his eyes to the ground, just in case Mister Wardd wants him to find the toll laying on the ground.
Arien Monday August 2nd, 2004 7:07:48 PM
Arien pauses a moment to survey the land and this area in particular, if the party was forced to retreat for whatever reason, teleporting back here seemed like a good choice to the elven mage. Once his is satisfied that he knows the area fairly well Arien sets out after the rest of the group, hurrying a little to catch up should they get too far ahead.
Tratain Monday August 2nd, 2004 11:12:09 PM
Tratain says "Aye, I agree with Setanos, if you go makeing a big show to cover our entrence, it may turn around and bite us at a later point, plus we'd have to stay seperate the whole time otherwise people would just put two and two together."
Watching the camp - DM Marcin Tuesday August 3rd, 2004 3:16:49 AM
Arien familiarizes himself with the area should the need ever arise to teleport back on the hill [it will be "seen casually"; you would have to spend an hour to make it "studied carefully"]. Then, since the shadow of the trees provides decent concealment from curious stares of the people - well, halflings mostly - on the road, the party finds itself able to approach the bridge even closer without drawing unwanted attention.
As the heroes slowly walk alongside the road several options of entering the city are discussed. After approaching the bridge and settling under shadow of a large chestnut tree good distance away from the road the heroes are able to notice some more details.
There seem to be guards at the bridge (a few young halfling lads in leather jackets with short blades at their sides and crossbows on their backs) but it doesn't look as if they were collecting a toll. Right now they are busy trying to gather together a small herd of sheep that got scared of something right in the middle of the bridge blocking the way for everyone else. The shepherd's dog, a small, white, mangy creature, runs around barking loudly. The shepherd is just patiently standing by chewing on something, oblivious to angry shouts of people around him.
A thought comes to the minds of those who are familiar with rural life that the number of people trying to get in is right now much greater than the usual for a town of such size.
Draax watches tents. Judging by the layout of the camp and the way things are set up their occupants have been living here for quite some time. Strangely enough, there are no halflings running about in the encampment. After a moment a tall, slender figure clothed in blue emerges from one of the tents. Even from this distance it doesn't take keen eyesight to realize it is an elf.
Gaxx watches the ground diligently on the way downhill and is rewarded with a small page of paper that has been trodden by someone into the ground. It is a flyer of a sort. It reads:
"CALFAST ROWGOLD TUNNELLY FROM ADVENTURE PARTY THE ONLY SENSIBLE CHOICE FOR THE NEW BARON!
Would you like to see Our Beloved Valley flourish? Would you like to see young, energetic people being drawn to our lands to spend their gold? Would you like to keep the Valley safe from monsters and bandits? Would you like to see Angel Springs honored with the presence of the Woldian League of Adventurers?
If you do, there is only one sensible choice: C.R.TUNNELLY!
DO NOT VOTE FOR STAGNATION! DO NOT VOTE FOR HEDONISTIC ESCAPISM! VOTE FOR CALFAST!
(Ask us about our pie eating contest at the Election Party)"
Renik Tuesday August 3rd, 2004 6:10:30 AM
"Hmm, there's no getting in there unnoticed without some fairly serious diversion or subterfuge" ponders the rogue. I can easily disguise myself as a travelling merchant. Perhaps those that can disguise themselves should do so (as halflings if at all possible, but as anything that is not obviously an adventurer) and the others should be made invisible, if our mages can do that for us. What do you think? Feng, would you accept either of those two options?"
Sarigar and Black Paws d20+13=18 d20+19=36 Tuesday August 3rd, 2004 9:29:28 AM
Sarigar holds the hankerchief before Black Paws' nose once again, this time it's more of rubbing, riling up him up a little. Good scent, bad man. Find him. Sniff him out. (Handle Animal 13, Track)
As Black Paws begins sniffing out Rihad, Sarigar checks any spots that Black Paws finds as "hot spots". In these spots, he looks for tracks that seem to lead in the same direction as the scents. (Tracking 36)
Feng Tuesday August 3rd, 2004 5:30:22 PM
The half-orc sighs. "While I don't like this coarse of action getting into the city unnoticed might give us a few hours to work before they find us. I will consent to being made invisible to slip into the city."
Gaxx Tuesday August 3rd, 2004 7:27:22 PM
Gaxx studies the piece of paper for a moment then runs back up the hill waving it in the air. He skids to a stop in front of Renik, holding out the piece of paper. Squealing with excitment, he exclaims, "Lookee, lookee! A pie eating contest!" He thrusts the piece of paper into Renik's hand then wanders away, muttering, "Gaxx like pie, yessiree, he do." He heads for the bridge, with the intention of helping the shepperd get his sheep across the bridge.
Draax Tuesday August 3rd, 2004 10:51:57 PM
Draax is surprised to see the elf at the tents. Since he does not see any Halflings he wonders if it is an elven controlled area. Not seeing any Halflings by the tent also makes him wonder if there are any hostilities between the tent elves and the city's citizens. He watches the tents for a few minutes to see if there is any traffic between the tents and the town. His attention is pulled back to his comrades when he observes Gaxx' excitement about the pie eating contest. He smiles as he thinks about how he is getting accustomed to having the purple dwarf around. As Gaxx goes to help with the sheep the smile slowly leaves Draax's face.
"There is an elf by the tents and I do not see any Halflings moving in that area. If there are any bad feelings going on between the tents and the town I would hate to draw attention to us by going over there. But, I am sure that within the next few minutes everyone in town will know that a purple dwarf has just arrived."
On tracking, interracial relations, and purple dwarves - DM Marcin Wednesday August 4th, 2004 1:30:03 AM
The heroes discuss their options. Invisibility is suggested as a possible way of entering the town without attracting too much attention.
Sarigar starts searching for tracks (while getting some curious looks from the cart drivers) and soon discovers that the heavy traffic makes the task almost impossible. Hundreds of feet must have trodden over the dirt of the road since yesterday. Black Paws whines from time to time, sensing smells similar to that of the handkerchief, but when Sarigar looks down he sees just a multitude of tracks made by boots of different sizes and draft animals. Without having seen tracks of Rhiad ever before it is impossible to single anything out.
Draax watches tents for a few moments and notices an elven maiden emerge from the same tent and give a hug to her companion. The halflings on the road do not pay any attention to the dwellings and their occupants.
Good natured Gaxx decides to aid the guards in their sheep problem. The party can easily track his progress down the road by the uproar that his appearance causes in the bored crowd of halflings. By the time he reaches the bridge there is a column of little folk following him at a respectable distance, curious to see what this unusual person is about to do.
"Look, I swear I saw one fellow like that at Humble's Ford. I'm telling you he's a drow." "Dude, the fellow has a beard." "So? Maybe he's like that bearded woman we saw last year." "You think he is here for the Election?" "I bet he is coming to meet with someone in the town." "You are all wrong. He's a dwarf. I think." "You do? That's some news." "A dwarf? Good Dynora, not a dwarf. Dwarves are nothing but trouble. First one comes, then another, and soon you have thirteen dwarves and a wizard shows up and some lad weak in the head is dragged off on some crazy quest-" "You just watch your tongue, mister. Dwarven gold keeps lot of chaps in business in this city."
When Gaxx reaches the herd of sheep the crowd gathers round and other party members can no longer see what is happening. The number of onlookers increases with every moment and there are people coming out of the town gate now, too.
The guards, confused and unsure what to do, part before Gaxx, and he is now facing twenty pairs of sheep's eyes all looking at him. Even the shepherd's dog has stopped barking.
[Handle Animal DC10 will do the trick of gathering the herd together.]
***
The Baron has had a bad morning. In fact, the Baron has had a bad week. And a bad month. Nobody likes the prospect of losing his job.
Looking out of the window of the keep he surveyed Angel Springs. The town seemed sleepy and peaceful as usual.
"Free toy for every guest? Can they fall any lower than that? Next they will start paying people to attend their party! We really should have set up some rules here, but now it's to late for that. This fellow is a few cards short of a full deck, I tell you. If he gets the post there will be no end of trouble and what in the name of Ffloy is going on at the Old Trader's Ford?"
Renik Wednesday August 4th, 2004 4:21:10 AM
Renik can scarcely believe his ears when Feng agrees to be made invisible. Will wonders never cease? "Feng, old friend, you must be getting soft in your old age!" grins the rogue, punching the half orc lightly on the arm. "Right, it looks like we have a plan. Let's head for some cover behind those bushes. Then those of us that can disguise ourselves can do so, we can make the others invisible and..."
He tails off, his mouth hanging open in disbelief as Gaax goes marching up to the bridge.
"Bu...buh...but..." he splutters, pointing feebly back at the bushes. He watches events unfold with all the dreadful inevitability of a slow motion cart crash. He slumps down, kneels on the grassy hillside and begins to bang his forehead repeatedly on the ground.
"Will"
bonk
"Somebody"
bonk
"PLEASE"
bonk
"tell me this isn't happening!"
bonk bonk bonk
Setanos Wednesday August 4th, 2004 7:25:32 AM
Watching Gaxx as he walks down the road and into the commotion, Setanos cant help but smile. He realizes in that moment that he's gotten used to the odd color of his friend, and hadnt even considered it when suggesting they simply walk into town. Looking over at Reniks response, he breaks down into an outright chuckle. Walking over to him, he squats down by his head. "I could tell ya that mate, but I dinna think you'd be believin it." Standing again, he says to the rest "Well, I dont think we be raise'n many eyebrows now. Lets go shall we?"
Gaxx d20=20 Wednesday August 4th, 2004 5:25:59 PM
(Handle Animal- 20, nat. 20, how lucky! *g*)
Gaxx suddenly finds himself the center of attention. He pulls his trusty rod from his belt and taps it against his club to get everyone's attention, even though he already has everyone's attention. He points at two of the sheep and says, "You an you, go first." He points at another two, "You an you is next." He continues, occasionally pushing a particularly stubborn sheep, until he has all of the sheep lined up in two ranks. He turns to the shepherd and points towards the front of the line. "Now yous take dem where dey need ta be. Dey do not needs ta be in da middle o da bridge." Gaxx makes shooing motions until he's moved the shepherd to the front of the line and the whole group is moving off of the bridge.
Feng Wednesday August 4th, 2004 6:33:18 PM
Feng laughs when he sees the purple dwarf heading to the bridge. He laughs even more when the little folk gather around him. He understands his desire to help the halfling on the bridge and almost went down there himself.
"Well so much for stealth. I guess we should just walk in now."
Draax Wednesday August 4th, 2004 10:46:54 PM
Like everyone else Draax cannot help but laugh at the antics of the dwarf. With all the commotion going on about the dwarf no one should care too much about where the group came from.
He smiles as he waits for Renik to recover. "Hey Renik, if we get separated where should we meet? If we get separated before we get a chance to choose a new meeting place, I say we meet inside the city at the gate."
Tratain Thursday August 5th, 2004 12:27:25 AM
Tratain watches Gaxx's antics with amusement, and walks into town with the others.
Entering the town - DM Marcin Thursday August 5th, 2004 1:16:45 AM
A strange parade marches right through the city gate. First goes the shepherd, red on face and constantly looking back. Then, wonder of wonders, twenty sheep trod formed into a rough column like a squad of recruits coming back to barracks from an exhausting field exercise. Next comes Gaxx and the shepherd's dog, and after him a buzzing throng of halflings. It takes some time for the rest of the party to push their way through the crowd and into the city.
The street is narrow, with nearby buildings having their ground floors built out of stone and higher floors out of wood. The higher floors are slightly larger then the lower ones creating a kind of overhangs over the street. Most houses are halfling-sized. There is however a larger building nearby. A sign over the door reads "Glassy Gaze Inn".
Judging by the buzz and smells coming from just around the corner there is a market over there.
The crowd of townsfolk has gathered around Gaxx and the herd of sheep. The shepherd is examining every animal closely and with visible suspicion as if he expected them to sprout wings and fly away. There is buzzing of hundreds of voices as halflings engage in their favorite pastime: gossip. Outrageous stories fly in all directions. From what the party can hear Gaxx has been already seen flying into the city right over the gate with a string of sheep in tow.
It takes a better part of an hour to push out of the crowd.
Gaxx feels a gentle tug on his sleeve. When he turns around he sees a very nervous, rotund halfling wearing an apron. The crowd holds its breath.
"Excuse me, good man, er dwarf, er sir..." - the voice of the halfling trails away, and he visibly swallows. "The name is Folko Appleburry. With such distinguished guest coming to our humble town, I thought, I thought, er, you know, I wondered if I could extend to you my hospitality?" He points back at the nearby inn. "Free of charge, of course, for such distinguished, did I say distinguished? I meant spectacular guest! Best room and best food, all on the house!"
In the meantime the individual party members also get some notice, but Gaxx is still the center of attention. It is actually possible, if the party wishes to do so, to gather together in the shadow of one of the buildings.
Arien Thursday August 5th, 2004 5:19:45 AM
Arien, feeling a bit claustrophobic in the crowd, makes his way over to one of the buildings to get some room.
Renik Thursday August 5th, 2004 9:04:01 AM
"Well,I suppose we should find a place to stay" suggests the rogue from the relative calm of shadow of the building. "I have no objection to Mr Appleburry's premises. Only let's try to avoid any more crowds, they make me nervous. Particularly when it was suggested we keep a low profile."
Hooded Stranger Thursday August 5th, 2004 12:39:07 PM
Hearing all the hubbub, a hooded stranger steps outside to see what's going on. Doing his best to not attract too much attention, probably goes unnoticed, as he towers at 6'4 above the rest of the local denziens. Keeping out of the way of the crowd, he just keeps an eye on the crowd of people that are talking with the purple dwarf.
Gaxx Thursday August 5th, 2004 6:39:15 PM
Gaxx grabs Folko Appleburry's hand and vigorously shakes it. "I be Gaxx OgreSlayer! It sure do be mighty lucky dat you be wantin me ta stay wit you, yes indeed! But tell me, where be da pie eatin contest? Ah wants ta eat some pie!" Gaxx seems to be completely unaware of the hubbub he is causing.
Draax Thursday August 5th, 2004 11:01:10 PM
Draax gives a slight nod and heads towards the inn Folko Appleburry pointed to.
Glassy Gaze Inn - DM Marcin Friday August 6th, 2004 1:26:12 AM
The bartender is both relieved and very pleased when Gaxx accepts his hospitality. Half walking, half running after Gaxx as he makes his way to the door, the tavern keeper starts shouting out commands: "Betty! Bring out the best set of dishes! We have a notable guest! Bobby! Ted! Make sure nobody in this lot is loitering without buying a drink!"
Meanwhile "this lot" pushes itself into the inn after Gaxx. After just a few minutes it feels as if half of the town managed to crowd itself inside the inn, while the other half is looking in through the windows. The party, as well as some other non-halflins have somewhat easier time pushing in. The main room of the tavern is clean and spacious. Several armchairs, both for large and small folk have been arranged around a stone fireplace, but it being summer in its height there is no fire going. Tables and benches of various sizes have been carefully positioned around the room. A huge head of a giant hangs over the fireplace, its empty eyes probably giving the name to the inn. Only after close examination it turns out to be an expertly painted sculpture. The walls are decorated with beer mugs of strange shapes and designs - mister Appleburry seems to be quite a collector. A buzz of activity can be heard coming from a nearby kitchen. Despite it being still morning it is dark inside, as all windows are completely blocked with heads of curious onlookers who appear to be relating what is going on inside for the benefit of those standing behind them.
While Gaxx is enjoying a glass of beverage of his choice at the best table and waiting for promised dinner the rest of the party manages to gather on one of the benches by the wall. Beer is flowing freely in the whole inn. It seems Folko will be making a fortune today.
Meanwhile, the halfling does his best to please his customer. "A pie-eating contest? That will be on the Election Day, won't it? A little game Calfast is holding to gain support?" The fat halfling winks. "Sooo, you are, Sir, an adventurer, then?" An "ooooo" comes from the crowd and there is a sudden silence. "Came here invited by Calfast, I'd wager?" Another "ooooo".
"Ahem, don't worry. Your secret is safe with me. Anyway I happen have some freshly baked pies. I hope you like blackberries? I will have them fetched now."
Meanwhile, the party notices that there is a group of halfling youths standing nearby and staring at them with their mouths open. Looks like the rest of the heroes, too, finally had their gossip value appreciated.
"Omigod omigod omigod its them its them its them!"
Something is whispered from ear to ear, and wherever the whisper goes heads turn and look at the party. After a moment Folko approaches, if possible looking even more nervous than before.
"I, er, I, er, I would like to, since you Lords were kind enough to, to, invite you, to join, I am sure my room will prove-"
Momentarily lost for words he just bows deeply and points to the main table where Gaxx is already sitting.
"Betty! Set for twelve!"
It doesn't look as if the party will be able to enjoy any privacy today, so this moment seems to be as good as any to take back control over the events.
Sarigar and Black Paws Friday August 6th, 2004 8:08:15 AM
Having seen quite a few halflings in his hunting grounds over the years, perhaps having come arcoss this village at least once, Sarigar is not as surprised about their size as one might think. He is, however, quite uncomfortable with all the attention. Too many people, too close together, too close to him. He joins the others, but tries to find a place with as much "breathing room" as possible.
Hooded Stranger Friday August 6th, 2004 12:05:45 PM
Following the group back into the inn, the stranger smiles inside his hooded cloak. Such are the times that this group has had. Keeping an eye on things, the stranger decides to wait and see what will happen, along with gauging how the halfings will deal with everything.
Renik Sunday August 8th, 2004 5:28:00 PM
The rogue sighs and tosses up his hands in mock defeat. News of their arrival will no doubt have passed to every sentient soul within a twelve mile radius by now. No point in fighting it. "Very well, I concede. Lead on, Sir Gaxx," he grins, pulling up a chair at the dwarf's table.
"You have a way about you, my friend, that is hard to resist," he smiles. "May Wardd continue to smile on you."
He gratefully accepts a drink from Mr Appleburry, saying to the halfling as he does so, "A fine establishment you have here, sir. I'm particularly fond of your giant. Excuse me for asking, but our appearance here seems to have caused something of a commotion, Mr Appleburry. Who is it, exactly, that you fine folk believe us to be, to cause such a stir?"
Setanos Sunday August 8th, 2004 8:45:00 PM
Setanos smiles at the kind offers, thanking everyone for their hospitality. Other than that he goes along with the flow and lets those more suited to negotiations handle them.
Feng Monday August 9th, 2004 12:27:01 AM
Feng takes great care when moving about the inn. He's more than twice the size of the halflings and doesn't want to step on any of them. Now he understands why Renik wanted to use stealth. This is a dissaster. By now the whole town knows they are there.
Draax d20+5=12 Monday August 9th, 2004 1:57:47 AM
Draax smiles and nods to the gathering halflings, but keeps his mouth shut. He politely declines the offer of food pretending to not be hungry and hoping the crowd noise is loud enough to hide the rumblings of his stomach. He asks one of the servers to bring him some water and sips out of the cup as he listens. He does not feel comfortable letting the halflings think that he is someone he is not especially when politics are involved. He knows that he will have no problem disguising himself to move around the town, but searching for the bard as a group is now out of the question.
He waits eagerly to hear the proprietor's answer to Renik's question about the group's mistaken identity. While waiting he scans the non-halfling guests to see if any matches the description of the bard or if any of them are carrying musical instrument (spot check 12).
Your reputation precedes you, gentlemen! - DM Marcin Monday August 9th, 2004 2:51:42 AM
Draax looks around the crowded room. Although there are quite a few larger folk in the inn they either don't fit the image shown by the globe or keep their faces hooded. No musical instruments are visible.
The party is now sitting at the main table; their host is standing nearby with his arms folded on his stomach, fingers nervously drumming. There is a moment of awkward silence filled with whispers coming from the crowd. Mr Appleburry welcomes Renik's question with a sigh of relief and is more than happy to elaborate.
"Thank you, sir! Doing my best to keep the place as pleasant as possible, sir. As for you and your friends, sir, I am sure nobody in the Valley believes you to be anything else but the greatest heroes ever walking on the face of the Wold, Mister Mordrid, sir!" There is a murmur of approval from the crowd.
Two halfling barmaids arrive from the kitchen carrying trays with bowls of hot and delicious smelling food. Folko approaches Draax with a look of concern on his face and asks: "Do you find the food not to your liking, Lord Valdor, sir?" As clean silver plates are laid out before Tratain the barmaid smiles and excitedly says: "We are honored you decided to accept our hospitality, Brother Jandar!" The innkeeper excuses himself for a minute and returns with a dark green bottle, which he presents rather timidly to Arien. "Will Aisildurian Dark Red '13 be acceptable for your meal, Lord Joe, sir?"
***
The news was spreading like a wildfire. The Gold Dragons came to town!
In one of the more elegant houses a very nervous halfing was browsing through the wardrobe of his best clothes.
"Oh dear." - he said while buttoning up his very best shirt. "A man just congratulated me on the brilliant idea of inviting Gold Dragons to Angel Springs. I must have been doing lots of sleepwalking lately because I have absolutely no recollection of doing it."
"Don't be sarcastic, Calfast, dear." - responded his better half, while furiously combing away at his rather sparse hair. "You know I hate that. Besides, even if you didn't set it up, you couldn't plan it better. This will gain our Party lots of extra support."
"I wish it was that simple, honey. If I didn't organize it then most certainly somebody else did. I'm afraid one of the other two is trying to pull a nasty trick. Well, I'm off. I will probably miss morning tea. And second breakfast, too. Gods know I sometimes wonder why I wanted this job in the first place."
Renik Monday August 9th, 2004 11:51:56 AM
The rogue's face freezes in place for a heartbeat, then slowly attempts to rearrange itself into something resembling nonchelant. It pulls off a poor incredulous.
"The, ah, the Gold Dragons, you say? Greatest heroes the Wold has ever known is it? Mighty Mordrid am I? I see. Not that I suppose it will do the least bit of good, but I should probably point out that we are in fact not the Gold Dragons at all. Much as I'd love to be them, and as much fun as impersonating them might be, I really don't think it pays to pretend you are people who could vaporise you with a misplaced sneeze. I am not Sir Mordrid. We, sir, are merely a wandering group of jobbing adventurers, new to these parts. We seemed to have walked into the middle of something a little beyond our control. I must apologise for any misunderstanding." The rogue suspects this will not be the last time he has to say those words.
He leans towards his companions and quietly says "This is getting out of hand, my friends. We need to track down our quarry quickly. And that is going to be hard to do with this entourage. I need a volunteer or two to get out of here subtly, change their appearance if possible, and start asking questions about town, whilst the rest of us draw attention here. Anyone up for it?"
He turns back to the proprietor. "Just out of interest, my good man, if we are supposed to be Valdor and Joe and all the other legends, who is he supposed to be?" He points at the smiling purple dwarf next to him. "Mordo the Minotaur, perhaps?"
Hooded Stranger Monday August 9th, 2004 1:37:24 PM
Listening in to the main coversation at the Inn. The hooded stranger gives off the impression of having a coughing fit, at the mention of the Gold Dragons.
When he once again has control of laughter, he pulls off his hood, while he intercepts one of the servers.
Taking his tray to the head of the table, Roger offers the tray of goodies to Renik as he says, "It seems we all walk into things that we cannot control, M'Lord. But if you are not mighty adventurers, than what pray tell brings you to Angel Springs?"
Taking a moment to glance at the members of the party that he recognizes, Roger watches to see if the others recognize him or not and the caution that he places in what he says.
Draax Monday August 9th, 2004 2:40:18 PM
Draax takes a sip of water and looks at the food longingly, but does not want to take the food under false pretenses. To Folko he says, "No my good man I am sure that your food is excellent. I am on a strict eating schedule and it is not yet time for my next meal. I know that may seem strange, but habits are hard to break."
He takes another sip of water when the name Folko called him finally registers in his brain. Draax chokes on the water and it takes a moment for him to finally recover. "Lord Valdor!! You flatter me sir, but you have mistaken me for someone else." He leans in close to the Folko and whispers. "If say I was this man that you say I am... and I am saying that I am not... I would not want my enemies to know that I am him... and not being him... I would hate to have his enemies coming after me." He leans back from the halfling hoping that the secretive nature will give Folko a way out of this without embarrassing himself. He winks at Folko and says in a medium voice, "So you see my good man you are mistaken, I apologize for any inconvenience this may cause you."
Draax has never been good at gathering information, but he wanted desperately to get away from the crowd. Listening to Renik, Draax gives him a slight nod and then excuses himself from the table. It takes him a moment to recognize Roger, but he gives no indication that he does. He leaves the inn and looks for an opportunity to change his appearance to his alter ego Steps.
Sarigar and Black Paws d20+14=25 d20+1=18 Monday August 9th, 2004 3:24:49 PM
At the mention of stepping out of these cramped quarters, Sarigar silently stands up, snatches a handful of food from the table and steps out the door. As he gets outside, he tosses most of the meat to Black Paws as he scarfs down most of the rest rather uncerimoniously.
He then proceeds to look around the town, looking for bard, both in plain sight as well as attempting to hide (Spot 25, Search 18). Although not trying to be obvious about his search, he's not going out of his way to hide that he's searching for something. Occasionally he'll crouch on the ground or look in a barrel, as if looking for an object.
Arien Monday August 9th, 2004 3:42:42 PM
Arien stares at the nervous halfling a moment before bursting out in a laugh. "That will do just fine my good fellow, I however am not Joe the Hand. You may call me Arien Silverbow, or Arien for short as it pleases you." Suddenly a thought occurs to Arien. Squatting down Arien leans near the halfling. "Who would I want to talk to if I needed some...information. You know, someone who would be particularly knowlegable in the recent goings around here?" Arien reaches into a pocket and removes five gold pieces and slips them to the halfling while murmuring, "For your trouble."
Gaxx Monday August 9th, 2004 6:38:29 PM
Gaxx grins to Renik and the Innkeeper as he happily shovels food into his mouth. When the plate is clean, he turns to the Innkeep, "We come for da pie eatin contest!" Gaxx snags a piece of bread off of a passing tray then asks, "Who be dis Calfast guy ye keep askin about?"
Feng Monday August 9th, 2004 7:32:04 PM
Feng chuckles at the case of mistaken identity. Surely the Gold Dragons will hear of this eventually. What a story that will be. Still, they cannot impersonate the Gold Dragons, and he is glad the others think the same.
Tratain Monday August 9th, 2004 10:48:41 PM
Tratain is amused that the Halflings think that they are the Gold Dragons, and He attempts to Correct the Halflings if they keep Calling him Brother Jandar.
"My Name is Tratain, I am not Brother Jandar" He tells them every time they call him Jandar.
Welcome to Angel Springs - DM Marcin Tuesday August 10th, 2004 1:40:07 AM
As the party assures everyone that they are not, in fact, Gold Dragons, the eyes of the innkeeper open wide and what he believes to be a cunning look appears on his face.
"Of course, of course! Silly me." He puts his index finger at the tip of his nose and winks. "All right folks, these fine gentlemen are not, in fact, Gold Dragons! They are just a perfectly ordinary group of dragons, er, adventurers passing through. Nothing to see here, go about your business!"
Of course, nobody does.
Draax mentions "strict eating schedule" and gets a confused look from Folko. Obviously this phrase is an oxymoron around these parts.
Renik points to Gaxx and asks if he is supposed to be Mordo. An expression of wonder passes over Folko's face. "He is? Poor thing must have been sick lately." Leaning closer to Gaxx the tavern keeper asks quietly: "Would you like some chicken soup, sir Mordo?"
Coins offered by Arien quickly disappear in the pocket of the apron. Mr Appleburry leans closer and whispers: "Well, lord, ah, Arien, I am sure my old lady is as big town gossip as they get, but if you wanted someone more reliable to talk to you could try the Chief of the Town Watch. The chap knows the city inside out."
Gaxx asks about Calfast. "Ah, sir Mordo, Calfast is one of the three contenders to the position of" - he pronounces the word with a good deal of pride - "Burgomeister. His followers call themselves <Adventure Party> and want to invite adventurers to the Valley. Of course, some say that wherever adventurers go there will be adventures-"
"Darn straight there will, you'll see!" - immediately comes from the crowd. There is an instant eruption of political bickering. In the loud buzz Folko continues: "-but I, personally, find adventurer's gold perfectly acceptable. I have never turned one away when I had free rooms."
A few moments later, as the meal draws to a close, an old friend reveals himself, though the party is cautious enough not to openly declare that they recognize him.
Folko, seeing that his guests are done with the meal, promptly offers them a room. The chamber is on the ground floor, human sized, tidy, and bright. The walls have been whitewashed. The single window opens into the courtyard on the back of the inn with a glorious view of stables, barn, and a farm hand pushing a wheelbarrow of manure. Three massive beds stand in the corners of the room, the fourth corner being occupied by a cold stone fireplace. Additional mattresses have been brought in and stacked by the wall. An old throw rug is spread on the planks of the floor, with round table and two chairs standing in the middle of it. There is a note on the table that says: "Dear Guests, we hope you will enjoy your stay at the Glassy Gaze Inn. Should you plan on conducting any spellcasting, brawling, or adventuring on the premises be kind enough to inform the proprietor in advance so that he and his family may retire to the basement. Thank you. The Management." The ink is still fresh.
Draax finds the room to be the best place to adopt a disguise, as nobody is eyeballing the party at the moment. It is evident, though, that the main room of the inn is still crowded. It might be risky to leave that way.
It is for this reason that Sarigar departs through the kitchen and the back exit. A small group of halfling children follows him around at a small distance, looking everywhere he looks and picking up any objects he might have examined.
It is in the courtyard that Black Paws suddenly stops and stands still, nostrils wide open and flaring.
Renik d20+15=33 Tuesday August 10th, 2004 9:17:06 AM
The rogue closes his eyes. Mordo. He really thinks Gaxx is Mordo.
Renik resists the urge to bang his head against the table, and even manages to resist the urge to bang Mr Applebury's head against the table.
When he opens them again he has a shock, but this time a more pleasant one. His eyes meet those of the 'waiter', and a momentary smile flickers across his lips. "What brings us here? Oh, you know, the usual. The open road, with a tasty pie at the end of it."
He gets up and heads over to the room Folko has found them, and sets to work applying a disguise of his own (Disguise 33 (+2 Disguise kit, +2 Pants of Plenty). Wandering this town in adventurer garb seems a bad plan. He peers out of the window to ensure they are not observed.
Setanos Tuesday August 10th, 2004 9:46:15 AM
Setanos does his best to be unobtrusive, a difficult task for a large bearded man with a greatsword on his back. He watches the exchange between the waiter and Renik without expression, and then retires to the room afterwards.
In private, he chuckles. "Well that coulda gone better there mates."
Roger Tuesday August 10th, 2004 4:11:10 PM
With the serving of the meal over, Roger then gives the tray back to one of the hired hands.
Seeing that the others are disappearing, Roger will then head outside to watch the town, and wait for the others to come, hoping that they come disguised.
Gaxx Tuesday August 10th, 2004 6:26:15 PM
Gaxx pushes himself back from the table, belching from his pleasantly filled belly. Each time he is addressed as Mordo, he looks around in confusion, trying to find this Mordo person the Innkeeper keeps talking to. Being a rather absent minded dwarf, he quickly forgets to look for Mordo as he starts chatting with anyone who will listen about how lucky it was that Mister Wardd had sent him this way just in time for the pie eating contest, cause Gaxx dearly loves pie and is fairly certain that he can keep up with any halfling when it comes to eating pie. And if Mister Wardd is smiling on him, Gaxx could possibly win.
Privately, Gaxx desperately hopes that the others are taking advantage of the distraction he is creating by chatting with the halflings.
Feng Tuesday August 10th, 2004 7:05:52 PM
Feng watches the halflings rush about following his companions. Even if they are not the gold dragons it was nice to bring joy into peoples lives. Feng remains in the common room for some time, sipping an ale.
Draax Tuesday August 10th, 2004 9:59:16 PM
Draax goes to the room and uses his hat of disguise to change himself into the human teenager named Steps wearing a dark cloak and dark colored chain mail. "I guess the only good thing about this situation is that if things go wrong with the guy we are looking for. We will at least have alibis."
He waits until Renik gives the OK and then his goes out through the window.
Splitting up - DM Marcin Wednesday August 11th, 2004 12:30:29 AM
It is just a little after noon and the sun stands high in the sky. The streets of Angel Springs become less populated as, true to the local custom, the respected citizens retire home for lunch and a bit of relaxation in the shadow of their own roofs.
Renik and Draax apply their disguises, sneak out of their room through the window, and are joined by Roger who has been patiently waiting on the outside. Their departure appears to have been unnoticed and the trio, unpestered by the attention of the halflings, is free to move about the town. There appears to be a market nearby; other obvious landmarks are the keep, the docks, and a large green park inside city walls.
[Not sure what are your plans, but if it is just general gathering of gossip then post what topics you would like to inquire about and do a Gather Info roll.]
Gaxx and Feng stay in the main chamber of the inn; the dwarf is entertaining the crowd of admirers with conversation while the paladin is watching him is silence. Both seem to have made a striking impression on the halflings, especially the younger ones. Every now and then somebody's hand reaches out to touch Feng's armor, as if for luck, and Gaxx thinks that somebody has pocketed the glass he has been drinking out of as a souvenir. As time passes more and more voices beg for "a story".
Sarigar is still in the back yard of the inn. Black Paws, concentrated, is circling around with his nose low to the ground.
The rest of the party enjoys the relative seclusion of their room, though they had to shoo away a curious youth listening at the door and peeping through the keyhole - twice!
Arien Wednesday August 11th, 2004 4:37:53 AM
After a moment Arien shares the information he gained with the rest of the group with the suggestion that they should pay the Chief of the Town Watch a visit.
Gullion (Renik) d20+5=9 d20+3=17 d20+5=12 d20+13=18 d20+11=25 Wednesday August 11th, 2004 6:42:39 AM
Gullion is a short, stooped fellow, who might have once been healthy, but is now florid of face and running to fat. His skin is mottled, and shows evidence of a bout of the pox at some time in the past. His movements are rather maladroit, and his hands shake a little, as if he has spent too much of his time at the bottle. His lank, greasy black hair is plastered to his scalp, and a beaded cap (which has seen far better days) is perched upon his head. His face wears an ingratiating grin which reveals unhealthy looking teeth and worrisome breath. He is clad in a grubby embroidered robe of indeterminate colour, that like his cap is showing its age. His shoes are red, and have long, pointy toes. He gives the impression of a friendly, worn out and slightly pot-bellied weasel.
"Right, boys, let's do some business!" he leers at his companions.
He heads off, playing the part of a trader down on his luck and looking to drum up business about the taverns and markets of the town. In the process he tries to find out if non-halfling visitors are commonplace, and if there have been many of late. He suggests that he is looking for a business partner that he was due to meet for a secret deal and attempts to learn where he might locate this new arrival. (Gather Info 9) If sufficiently confident of the trustworthiness of his contact (Sense Motive 17) he shows them the image of their quarry in the crystal ball.
Once he has learned whatever he can he returns to the Inn. He sits at the bar, still in disguise, and gets into conversation with Mr Applebury.
"Wotcher, feller. Nice boozer you've got 'ere. Listen, little bird tells me you're a bloke who knows a wee bit, if you catch me drift." He winks conspiratorialy, then belches, as he slyly slips the halfing a couple of gold coins and launches into a similar patter as he has employed across town.
"I hear tell you got them Gold Dragons stayin' here. Quite a coup, that. Seems like there's a lot of the big folks around here lately, meself included. Where there's adventurers there's coin, that's wot I say. That's me wosname, motto, that is. And that's what I was planning to do here, see. A business partner of mine was heading this way only recently. Bit of a hush hush deal, know what I mean, son, don't let on it was me that mentioned it, like. Nothing dodgy, of course, all above board, loke. But one thing's for sure, if this deal pays off I'll be in clover! Trouble is, I've been lookin' all over, and I can't find the fella. This is him, look." And he shows the innkeeper the image in the crystal ball. "Now then, if you could point me in the right direction I'd be grateful. Why, if this deal comes off I could even cut you in, if you like. A lot of coin to be made. But don't approach the fella if you see him. He's the retiring type see, and he'll be off like a shot if it ain't me wot meets him. So, old son, any ideas? If not could you keep an eye out?" (Gather Info 12, Bluff 18).
Gullion then takes his leave, and ensuring he has not been followed (Spot 25) he slips into his room through the window, and changes back. He waits for all his companions to return, in order to find what they have learned.
Feng Wednesday August 11th, 2004 6:51:28 PM
Feng can't help but smile. The children were wide eyed with wonder and awe. Feng normally didn't like such things but how can one feel bad when you bring joy to children.
Feng smiles and says, "Okay children, gather round. I have a story I think you will all enjoy." He then proceeds to tell them the tale of the white dragon they delt with recently though some parts and edited for children.
Tratain Wednesday August 11th, 2004 10:28:34 PM
Tratain stays at the Inn being visible so that the others with Disguises can slip out to the City and learn whatever they can while everyone Focus's on the party members left at the inn.
Roger Thursday August 12th, 2004 12:06:10 AM
Having not met up with any of his comrads, Roger decides to keep an eye on the inn, to see if anyone is watching the group as they come in and out of the Inn.
Trying to engage anyone that's interested, Roger tries to play little dice games with chilren and adults alike.
Draax/Steps Thursday August 12th, 2004 1:29:16 AM
Seeing Roger here, Draax/Steps is pretty sure that the disguised Ranger knows what is going on, but he gives him the short vision just in case.
When the three of them separate, Steps locates Sarigar and Black Paws and lets both of them smell him so they will know it is him. In a low voice he asks Sarigar, "Has Black Paw found the prey's scent yet?" If not, he will ask him if he and the wolf would like to join Steps in a walk around the town walking past most of the inns and taverns.
If the two do not want to join him, Steps will still walk around the town getting get a feel for the locations of the tavern and inns.
Afternoon at the Glassy Gaze Inn - DM Marcin Thursday August 12th, 2004 2:37:51 AM
Most of the heroes stay in the inn so that those who want to have a look around have a greater chance of sneaking out undetected. Feng, Gaxx and Roger entertain the gathered halflings. The story about the white dragon is immensely popular with both adults and children. After some time the crowd finally starts to become thinner as, one by one, the hungry halflings decide to go home for late lunch. Some others (who are probably regular patrons at the Glassy Gaze) show up - mostly halflings, but a few dwarves, a gnome, and a couple of humans, too. None of the humans resemble the bard.
Arien suggests visiting the Chief of the Watch; but for a moment nobody acts on that bit of advice.
Steps finds Sarigar and Black Paws hanging close to the inn. The wolf has definitely found hints of the smell his master wanted him to look for. There is, however, no trail to pick up. After circling around the whole courtyard several times the wolf finally stops by the stables and sniffs the air all around one of the horses, a rather bony mare.
Steps steps out into the streets of the Angel Springs and, after an hour or two of walking around and asking questions, becomes familiar with the layout of the town.
Renik, on his foray out as Gullion, has mixed luck. He soon finds out that non-halflings are quite commonplace in the town, especially now, when large crowds of folk started to come to Angel Springs for the Election. Still, he manages to locate a local who recognizes the man in the globe.
"Yup, seen him. Rode into the town the day before yesterday through the Trade Gate. It was evening and the bugger was speeding like crazy, very nearly run me over with his horse."
This is, however, all Renik learns on the streets. Maybe he just had a bad luck of asking the wrong people.
It is his conversation with Mr Appleburry that reveals some additional details. Having overcome his suspicions of Gullion (with help of the gold coins offered to him) the innkeeper does not mind engaging in a bit of chit-chat and lending a sympathetic ear to business troubles of the big man. Especially if the big man is going to buy a beer or two.
When shown the crystal sphere, though, a smile appears on his face. First he asks to see the trinket a little closer, obviously never having seen such thing before. Then, handing it back, he says: "Ere, where can one get such things? I would like to get one with the painting of my daughter in it; it would be a perfect gift for her birthday."
"Well, my good man, you are in luck! You came to the right place. Your partner came into town two days ago and stays at my Inn!"
"Haven't seen the fellow even once yesterday, though. But, since his horse is still in the stables, I'm not worrying about his bill."
Gullion/ Renik Thursday August 12th, 2004 3:56:21 PM
"Been in his room has he?" asks Gullion, attempting to determine which room he is staying in. "He can be like that, timid soul, keeps to himself. Or has he been away in the town?"
Roger/Rond Thursday August 12th, 2004 6:27:34 PM
When given the update by Steps, Roger flashes a smile and continues his best to entertain and keep an eye out.
Having not learned much about the person they are seeking. Roger wonders whether he's keeping a low profile, is waiting for someone, or has already left town somehow.
Feng Thursday August 12th, 2004 7:08:50 PM
Feng sits in the common room of the inn feeling like a 5th wheel. He was out of his element in a big way. He was impressed by the way some of his companions quickly and effectively slipped out of the inn and headed about town. Feng can't imagine moving around unnoticed since he always attracts attention.
Draax/Steps Friday August 13th, 2004 1:36:15 AM
When he feels that he has a good mental image of the town Steps returns to the inn. When he believes that no one is looking he slips back through the window and switches his appearance back to normal. He returns to the common room, quickly notices Gullion and Mr. Appleburry, but then turns his attention to his comrades that are still in the room. He joins them at the table and just sits for awhile and casually watches who enters and leaves the room. If food is still being served he will order any thing that they still have prepared.
Inquiring about the bard - DM Marcin Friday August 13th, 2004 1:38:13 AM
Renik in the guise of Gullion continues the interrogation of the tavern keeper.
Mr Appleburry scratches his head. "I haven't seen him leave, but then again when one of the maids checked on his room today he didn't answer the door. Let's go have a look."
Folko leads Renik into the other wing of the inn and knocks at one of the sturdy oaken doors.
"Hello there, mister! You have a visitor! Hello? Anyone in?"
"There you have it. He must be somewhere out in the town."
Meanwhile, the rest of the party, some feeling quite powerless to help in the search, continues to mingle with the townsfolk.
Arien Friday August 13th, 2004 2:59:41 AM
Arien, tired of waiting around for the others to find results decides that contacting the local authorities would be a step in the right direction. Walking downstairs he sees Feng sitting around and asks him if he would like to come with him to visit the Chief.
Renik Friday August 13th, 2004 6:54:50 AM
Once back in his room the rogue reports his findings to the others. He greets Rond warmly, shaking him by the hand. "It's good to see you back my friend. Where have you been? What happened to you? And how did you find us?"
"I'd like us to get a look inside Rhiad Blackwing's room." he says, having recounted his findings. "I can blink in there, or if someone wants to use their magics to get in that would be fine. But I suggest whoever enters be prepared to defend themselves, and that we have backup on standby. It is likely he is out in the town, but you can never be sure. I'm keen to keep this subtle, so if we can have the infiltrator (perhaps even the backup) made invisible before they leave this room that would help. Spellcasters, how many invisibility spells can we rustle up? You know, when I get the cash I really will have to invest in one of those magical tattoos."
Setanos [Extended Mage Armor] Friday August 13th, 2004 7:56:27 AM
Setanos smiles at the success of Renik. "Good work lad, ya got us some good info there". On the question of invisiblity, he nods. "I ken make meself or another invisible once, an ken do a quick hop inta or outta tha room if things go bad"
He then casts a spell, just to be safe. He will cast invisiblity on himself or another if asked, and if he goes to the room he will try to figure out the distance and direction between that room and their own, incase he has to dimension door in or out in a hurry.
Sarigar and Black Paws d20+13=19 d20+19=34 d20+19=26 Friday August 13th, 2004 8:22:32 AM
Looking around to see if anyone is watching him, other than the halfling children that seem intent to follow him. If he feels satisfied that he is not being watched, he begins begins looking over the broken down mare. He checks its hooves, its coat, its mane and tail and finally its teeth. He's looking for anything that might give an indication of where it's been recently. (19 Handle Animal to keep it calm and check it properly, 34 Tracking to recognize trail markings, etc.)
He'll then begin searching the area for signs of recent movement, especially where a rider would most likely dismount, thus leaving a deeper impression of his boots. Perhaps he can pick up a trail from those. (26 Tracking the immediate area around the horse).
[ooc: Sorry for the low postings this week. School's starting back up and my schedule has been a little screwy. Hopefully I'll be squared away next week.]
Draax Monday August 16th, 2004 12:21:01 AM
Draax returns to the room and listens to Renik's report. He likes the invisibility plan and waits in the room, ready to assist if needed.
Making Plans - DM Marcin Monday August 16th, 2004 2:50:24 AM
Arien wants to visit the Chief of the Watch, while Renik comes up with a plan of breaking into Rhiad's room. Invisibility and blinking is to be used. Setanos, after doing a measurement of the distance between two rooms declares that he is able to use invisibility twice.
Sarigar examines the horse that has drawn the attention of Black Paws. The creature is in relatively good shape. It must have had at least a day of rest since its last effort. No twigs or leaves can be found intertwined with its harness and the skin of the horse does not bear any cuts, so either the rider didn't take it into dense wilderness or the mount has been thoroughly cleaned and tended to since its last journey.
The horseshoes are a bit worse for the wear, but still perfectly useable. A rock used to be lodged under one of them and has only recently been removed. Again, all that can be found on the hooves is the dirt of the road and straw.
The harness on the horse is a bit too showy for any self-respecting warrior, with a bit of embroidery here and there. Two saddlebags have been left hanging on the stall nearby, but all that can be found in them now are some horse-grooming utensils and a dirty bedroll.
Aside from the tracks of the bare feet of the stable boy Sarigar finds the imprints of a pair of riding boots of good quality. The tracks lead through the courtyard to the inn and vanish after reaching hardwood floors of the building.
Meanwhile, on the other side of the window, the farm hand has abandoned the wheelbarrow and, taking advantage of the fact that Mr Appleburry is nowhere to be seen, turned his interest to a jug of ale brought from the tavern by the kitchen help. The two lads are having a good time; merry laughter comes in through the thick glass of the window as well as a few rather unsophisticated jokes.
***
They watched, many pairs of strange eyes; some inhuman, some downright alien. They watched and they were mesmerized.
He knew he had them hooked. Something clicked and suddenly what was before only one of the ways to keep the coins coming became something grand.
His head was spinning, but he did his best to remain calm and observe every detail. Time to analyze will come later.
As he was looking at the face of the human he was wondering if maybe, this time, the human will not have to die.
Sarigar and Black Paws d20+13=23 d20+19=37 Monday August 16th, 2004 10:57:57 AM
When the visible trail ends, Sarigar takes a moment to kneel down with his brother. He takes Black Paws scruff in his hands and looks him right in the eyes. "Really wish I had your nose sometimes, brother. Gonna need you to sniff out this prey now." Again, he holds up the hankerchief to his brother's nose to let him get a good scent. Find him for us. (Handle Animal, Track, 23)
Black Paws begins to sniff the area where Sarigar lost the visible tracks to try to pick up the "invisible" trail (Tracking 37).
Rond Monday August 16th, 2004 11:07:32 AM
Following the others when indicated, Rond relaxes a little bit once he joins them back in their room.
"I went back to check what the drow were up to. The dark elves had moved out of the cave and boarded a ship that was anchored nearby. I noticed that several containers of cargo were being moved onboard by sahuagin, probably removed from the dungeon under the inn. I had a hard time controlling myself, as I just wanted to mow down those Sahuagin. I then followed the ship as it made its way along the shore, but it eventually sailed into the open sea and I could no longer track it.
"The name of the ship was Red Siren.
"I then made my way back to Plateau City as I figured you had moved on. When I arrived at the temple, they told me that I had just missed you. Kiriana wanted to listen to my report and updated me on the situation before she sent me to join the rest of the group. I then came here and waited for you. I have not seen anything else that I could find while I've been waiting."
Renik Monday August 16th, 2004 5:09:38 PM
"I suggest we wait until we are all reassembled before we make our move on Rhiad's room." he says. "Let's keep it under surveillnce, but I don't want to be without key party members when we strike. Let's wait and see what Arien and Sarigar have to report."
Draax Monday August 16th, 2004 11:24:52 PM
Draax lays on one of the beds and relaxes as he listens to the others.
Arien Monday August 16th, 2004 11:53:41 PM
Arien waits for a moment for a response, when none is forthcoming, Arien shrugs and heads outside. Arien asks for directions to the Cheif's office and heads there. He figures if they go through official channels should something go wrong it would look a bit better.
Visiting the Chief of the Watch - DM Marcin Tuesday August 17th, 2004 2:54:22 AM
Sarigar follows the tracks of the riding boots to the door of the inn. There the wild man lets Black Paws take over, but the big wolf just sniffs at the air and whines unhappily. The trail must be too old for him to pick up; probably Blackwing didn't pass through here for longer than a day.
The rest of the party waits for everyone to assemble in their room. Everybody is soon accounted for aside from Arien, who went to look for the Chief of the Watch.
Even though the crowd has become sparser since the morning there is still quite a sizeable group of youngsters following behind the wizard. When asked about the Chief they enthusiastically offer to lead the way; one of them even runs forward to let the officer know he is going to have a visitor.
After a moment Arien reaches a small building near the market that is being used as a guardhouse. The Chief - a rather small, blond halfling in leather armor is standing in the door, munching on a pretzel and looking over the crowds of buyers and sellers with casual nonchalance. When he notices the head of Arien standing out from the crowd he puts away the snack, dusts his britches, and, when Arien approaches closer, invites him inside, shuts the door, and closes the shutters of the windows, much to the disappointment of multiple heads looking inside through them.
Sitting in a halfling-sized chair at a halfling-sized table is uncomfortable for Arien, but the Chief doesn't seem to notice the discomfort of his visitor. The eyes of the guardsman seem to stop briefly on some details: face, weapons, magic ring.
"I'm Thomas Thimble, right now in charge of the Angel Springs Town Guards, and you must be one of the fellows who caused all that rioting at the Old Trade Ford this morning. Well, one thing is for sure: if you are Gold Dragons then I am Queen Claudia. So, why don't we start with you introducing yourself and stating what is the business of your group in our city."
[Depending on what you want to say a Diplomacy or Bluff check might be appropriate.]
Gaxx Tuesday August 17th, 2004 5:49:46 AM
Gaxx dozes peacefully curled up in the corner of the room, sort of listening to what is being said and sort of just letting his very full belly settle from the rather large lunch.
(I apologize for missing a few posts. We had some hurricane issues here)
Setanos [Extended Mage Armor] Tuesday August 17th, 2004 7:41:03 AM
Setanos waits for Renik to move forward with the plan to enter the room. He sits quietly on the side, seemingly lost in thought. Still, you sense a readiness in him, as if he is prepared to spring into action at a moments notice.
"When ya be ready lad, let's do it," he says to Renik.
Sarigar and Black Paws Tuesday August 17th, 2004 10:44:00 AM
Surrendering to the futility of trying to pick up Rhiad's trail at this time, Sarigar and Black Paws retrun to the others.
"Found his horse and some things that are probably his. Followed what little trail was left to some building. Trail's cold now, even my brother couldn't pick up his scent. He hasn't been anywhere I've looked in at least one sunset, maybe more."
Dejectedly, he sits down on the floor and leans up against a wall. Black Paws lays down next to him and puts his head in Sarigar's lap where he gets a good ear and neck scratching.
Rond Tuesday August 17th, 2004 10:50:10 AM
Having not seen some members for awhile. Rond listens to Sarigar's report and sympathizes with him about the tracks. Looking at Black Paws, Rond is reminded again of something he may be missing in his life.
Going to the window, Rond gazes out across the town and idly plays with his Hat of Disguise as he waits for Renik to determine when to head out.
Renik d20+11=24 Tuesday August 17th, 2004 2:00:32 PM
"OK, we're mising Arien, but I guess we can go ahead. Setanos, if you can make me invisible I can hover outside the window and blink inside at the first sign of trouble. Make yourself invisible and enter the room. Let's have Feng and Gaxx run interference, keeping folk away from the area by ttracting attention to themselves (shouldn't be too hard), and the rest of us just loiter in the area, in disguise if that helps. Well, unless there are any questions let's make our move. Let me reconnoiter first."
If everyone is happy with the plan as it stands Renik will have invisibility cast upon him, fly out to hover directly outside their quarry's window. He peers through the window looking for obvious signs of danger (Spot 24), then reports his findings back to the others in their room. That done he resumes his position at the window and waits for Setanos to make his move.
Draax Tuesday August 17th, 2004 7:23:18 PM
The plan sounds good to Draax. He will wait in the room until he hears a commotion or the others return with their findings.
Feng Tuesday August 17th, 2004 7:28:15 PM
"Sounds like a good idea. Another story should keep everybody distracted allowing you to act in peace."
Feng will begin another tale, drawing this one out so Renik and Setanos have plenty of time.
ooc: sorry about the absence. Been a little busy lately.
Arien d20+1=21 Tuesday August 17th, 2004 7:42:36 PM
"Well said, sir. I am in fact Arien Silverbow and I am from Plateau City. My friends and I were hired to find a thief to put it bluntly. You may have heard of the recent attack on Plateau City by dragons yes? Well in the confusion a friend of our employer was killed, whether by the dragons or the thief we don't know yet. But what we do know is that several gems, a journal, and a singular coin were stolen from the dead man's body. When the attacks were over and stock was taken it was discovered that another employee was missing and that these items were gone with him. Our employer has tried several magical means of tracking the thief but once he reached here the trail went cold. We think he is somewhere in town still or somewhere very close by. I'm here to assure you we mean no trouble to this city or it inhabitants we simply want this thief and to take him back with us."
"Any assistance you can offer would be much obliged and our employer would definitely remember your aid in the future. I am not asking you to catch the thief just any information you may have on him. He is a human, a bard by trade and is named Rhiad Blackwing. His hair is blond and he is well groomed and sports a small mustache. He would have arrived not too long before us."
(Diplomacy or Bluff check = 21)
Tratain Tuesday August 17th, 2004 11:11:25 PM
Tratain waits in the main room of the Inn with Feng to keep the halflings distracted while the rest of the party goes to search the room.
OOC: Sorry, odd work schedule's been keeping me away
Rond Tuesday August 17th, 2004 11:52:49 PM
Nodding at Renik's word Rond comments, "I'll try to keep a look out outside for who we're looking for."
Unless told otherwise, Rond will then put on his hat, and head outside as Roger.
Peeking into the room - DM Marcin Wednesday August 18th, 2004 1:30:30 AM
Officer Thimble listens carefully to Arien, as if he was weighting every word that is being said. Finally, after a short pause, he speaks: "All right Mister Silverbow, I will trust your words - for now." The halfling pulls out a small, battered notebook, and flips a few pages back. "A man fitting your description did indeed enter Angel Springs. He arrived two days ago to be more specific. Claimed he was just passing through, but there was a lot of fear in him. Haven't heard about him ever since. The gate guards didn't report him leaving town, so your bard is probably still around."
"I would like to make one thing perfectly clear. This is Crescent Valley, not Plateau City. Only the Watch has the authority to arrest anyone on these grounds. If you want to take your thief into custody you better make sure one of us is present when you do so. We'll let the man say his piece and the Magistrate will decide if you are allowed to take him away or not. Is that understood?"
"Let me assign a watchman to accompany you while you conduct your business in the city. You probably could use a local guide, and I will sleep better knowing somebody is watching what you're doing."
The halfling officer opens the door and yells: "Benny! Get in here, I have a job for you!"
"Is there anything else you wanted to ask about?"
Meanwhile, back in the Glassy Gaze Inn, the rest of the party prepares to enter the room of Rhiad. Feng and Gaxx draw the attention of the patrons away from the area of operations. Others wait, ready to lend assistance if needed, while Setanos and Renik, both under effect of invisibility, get ready to enter the chamber.
Renik peeks through the window. The room seems to be dusty and much smaller than the one occupied by the party. There is a bed, a table, a chair, and a wooden chest by the wall. Lots of personal items - clothes, grooming gear, other trinkets - have been strewn in a chaotic way around the room, as if somebody tossed the contents of his backpack on the bed and floor. There seems to be nobody inside.
Setanos tries the door. It is locked.
Setanos [Extended Mage Armor] Wednesday August 18th, 2004 7:43:12 AM
Setanos gives Renik a funny look at the mention of two invisibility spells. "Ah... mate... I kenna do that, I said I ken make meself OR another invisible, not an another. I only gots one spell ready. So it's me or you mate, make tha call." Setanos will then cast his one improved invisibility spell on whoever Renik decides.
OOC: Um... may need to back up here... I said I can make myself OR another invisible... I only have 1 invisibility spell memorized.
Sarigar and Black Paws Wednesday August 18th, 2004 10:21:15 AM
After all their tracking attempts, Sarigar would prefer to allow his brother to rest, but if they're needed, they'll follow. Otherwise, they'll stay here and rest for a bit.
Renik d20+10=26 d20+12=22 Wednesday August 18th, 2004 3:29:01 PM
"Very well, the room seems quiet so let's take the chance. Cast the spell on me and I'll blink inside," says the rogue.
Once this is done he returns to the window, blinks through, gives the apartment a quick search to ensure it is unnocupied (Move silent 22), then goes through the contents with a fine tooth comb, taking his time secure in the knowledge that his companions are providing support on the other side of the door. (Search 26).
Obviously he hunts for the stolen items, but also for anything that might give a clue as to the thief's current wherebouts.
Once he is done he blinks back out through the window leaving things as close to how he found them as possible. He then heads back to their shared rooms and reports his findings.
Feng Wednesday August 18th, 2004 6:56:59 PM
Feng pauses and take a long gulp from his glass. "Oh yes, where was I...." Feng says and continues the tale.
Arien Wednesday August 18th, 2004 7:38:27 PM
"Nothing comes to mind at the moment sir. I'll make sure and put Benny here to good use. Anyway I should be getting back to my friends sir, so good day and I shall most likely see you again." Arien stands up and bows slightly to the Chief and leaves, heading back towards the inn, moving slow enough that Benny can keep up.
Searching the room - DM Marcin Thursday August 19th, 2004 1:21:15 AM
Setanos stands by the door, trying to look as he wasn't up to anything, while rummaging noises coming from the inside of the bard's room indicate that invisible Renik is at work. If anyone glanced now inside and saw items pick up themselves and move around a rumor about the inn being haunted would start immediately, probably much to the grief of Mr Appleburry.
The bed appears not to have been slept in. The travel gear of the bard that is left lying all around gives the impression of having been picked through. Some items have been left behind: two blankets, a cloak, two books (one with poetry and the other a romantic novel), and other, similar things. Other items have been obviously removed, as testified by an empty box that, judging by its smell, used to hold a vial of perfumes. There is a half-empty bottle of Aisildurian red wine standing on the table, as well as two cups that have been drunk out of. A pair of riding boots stands under the bed. There is a short stub of candle standing in the middle of a sizeable pool of dried-up wax on the table. The chest, obviously provided by the innkeeper for the convenience of his guests, is empty aside from a few dirty garments and other trash.
As Arien walks back to the inn alongside Benny he has some time to look at his new companion. The guard is maybe in his late forties - a young adult as far as halflings go. He is rather quiet, answering questions with monosyllabic statements in an official tone of voice.
[Sense Motive check DC 18 made by Arien will reveal extra info.] Highlight to display spoiler: {Something is bugging the lad. The halfling is not enjoying the company of Arien and does not seem to be terribly enthusiastic about he job he got assigned.}
Renik Thursday August 19th, 2004 3:50:15 AM
Renik reports his findings to the others. "Nothing of great interest I'm afraid. The only obvious clue was the two mugs. It would seem that our quarry met with someone before heading off, clearly in something of a hurry. But where he went, or why, I cannot say. I found no direct evidence of a location. Perhaps further interrogation of the tavern owner and town populace will reveal something more. I suggest we wait Arien's return, then head back into town in disguise to see what else we can learn."
Gaxx Thursday August 19th, 2004 5:37:10 AM
Gaxx wanders outside while Renik does his thing in Rhiad's room. He briefly wonders if he should tell Renik that he can become invisible too but doesn't see how that would help Renik's plan so he does as he is told and strolls down the road hoping the halflings will follow. Once he's well away from the Inn, he motions a few of the street urchins closer, speaking softly in a conspiratorial manner since everyone seems to think he's some kind of hero or something. "I be needin' some help. I is a lookin for dis guy, he be a human wit blond hair and a mustache an can sing real purty like. Ha' anybody be seein him roamin about town? I sure would like ta see him."
Roll Gather Info, Jim. M.
Sarigar and Black Paws Thursday August 19th, 2004 10:50:57 AM
While sitting on the floor, Sarigar and Black Paws both drift off into a light sleep. It's one of those little naps that most every animal seems to take at any given moment.
Roger Thursday August 19th, 2004 7:01:32 PM
Strolling about the perimeter of the tavern. Roger does his best to listen in to anything that might be of interest. Occassionally is searching eyes will slide over the room that Renik is searching. Wishing his friend Wardd's luck, Roger keeps pacing around the tavern.
Arien d20+1=5 d20+1=20 Friday August 20th, 2004 12:52:10 AM
Arien nearly misses the guard's tone but after a few more answers Arien catches on to the effect that the guard is obviously not happy. Arien files that away without letting Benny know that he has noticed the guard's displeasure. When Arien reaches the inn he pauses in the main room to see if he notices any of his friends.
Feng Friday August 20th, 2004 1:02:07 AM
As the half-orc tells his tale, part of his mind wars with itself. His ideals about himself, life, and everything are conflicting with what needs to be done. They need to find this bard before many people get hurt. But do the ends justify the means? Is it now right to commit illegal acts? Feng didn't think so.
An afternoon in Angel Springs - DM Marcin Friday August 20th, 2004 2:26:39 AM
It is now late afternoon and smoke is rising from almost every chimney. In every self-respecting household dinner is being prepared. Mr Appleburry, too, knocks on the door of the heroes and asks if they would like to have their meal in their room, or join everyone in the main hall of the inn.
Renik comes back from his forage and reports what he has seen. Roger and Gaxx wander the nearby streets keeping ears open [please roll Gather Information - both of you]. Feng, still in the main room of the inn and surrounded by halflings, ponders the ethical side of the actions that are to be taken.
As the sun slowly makes its way down the sky and the evening approaches the first day of the party's stay in Crescent Valley slowly draws to a close. There are maybe three more hours of daylight left. The party has confirmed that Rhiad made it to Angel Springs, but where is the bard now?
Arien arrives at the inn with Benny in tow. The withdrawn halfling watches the "big people" with visible distrust.
Sarigar, bored to tears with the search for the bard, curls up and goes to sleep. Others are better at concealing their impatience. Still, time is running out, and, if there is to be any chance of recovering the sensitive documents, the tedious investigative work needs to be done.
Gaxx d20=9 Friday August 20th, 2004 5:52:42 AM
(gather info-9) After listening to the chatter of the street urchins for a bit, he realizes that they probably haven't seen Rhaid so Gaxx makes his way back towards the Inn, still wondering when the pie eating contest will be taking place. A soft rumbling from Gaxx's belly informs him that it must be time to eat and rather than eat bugs, he decides to take Mister Appleburry up on his offer of food once more.
Renik d20+6=20 Friday August 20th, 2004 6:31:44 AM
The rogue is rather shocked to see Arien arrive with a representative of the law, but does his best to hide his displeasure.
He makes no mention of having searched the room, instead suggesting they again head out to see if they can learn anything around the town.
He finds some privacy, changes back into his guise as Gullion, and resumes his questioning of the populous (Gather Info 20)
Roger/Rond d20-1=16 Friday August 20th, 2004 11:20:45 AM
Realizing that Renik has had enough time to reconnoiter the room. Roger heads back to the team's room and tries to find out what's happening.
When there appears to be no update, Rond takes his dinner in the room. Afterwards, he'll hunker down for some sleep. He plans on waking up around midnight to set up a watch on the Inn to try to watch for any other comings and goings. (Gather info 16)
Sarigar and Black Paws d20+19=27 Friday August 20th, 2004 12:17:24 PM
At the smell of food, the two wake up and begin searching around for the nearest helpings. Not much for manners, if a plate does not obviously belong to someone, they stake their claim on it. Understanding enough to know that such things are often traded for the shiny metal disks, he looks around to see how many others are giving in trade and gives a like number (though not necessarily like types) of coins.
Once done, he sees Feng in the main room still telling his stories. He tells the big man, "Gonna go run for a bit, we've been stuck in here too long"
With that, he and Black Paws dash out into the streets and make for the edge of town. The whole while, Sarigar keeps a watch for the bard and while on the edge of town (the opposite end the bard likely entered from), he'll search for a possible trail again (Tracking 27).
Draax Sunday August 22nd, 2004 10:30:38 PM
Draax eats his meal in the main hall of the inn. After the meal he goes to the stables and chats with the stable boy. Draax?s main reason is to just keep an eye on the bard?s horse while the others gather information, but he also ask the stable boy?s advice on the upkeep of horses.
Day two, morning. Glassy Gaze Inn, Angel Springs. Five days before the festival of Gargul - DM Marcin Monday August 23rd, 2004 3:54:54 AM
Gaxx finds, much to his disappointment, that all the hobbit youngsters are telling him are made-up stories. They are simply so eager to help that they let their imaginations run wild.
With Benny around Renik finds it very difficult to find the privacy he desires. The guard doesn't seem to have a single bit of cheerfulness or sense of humor in him. Still, after having changed his appearance, he manages to sneak out and continues asking around.
He soon finds that there are quite a number of people employed at the inn. The servants remember the bard well - after all, he arrived only a few days ago. It was a late evening when he came into the inn. The man seemed to be very distracted by something, constantly looking back, as if he was afraid he was being followed. He paid for his room without much haggling, had supper in the main hall with other guests, and then retired for the night. However, an hour later he ordered a bottle of wine and two cups. The serving maid says he was having a visitor, but she couldn't see who that was. The kitchen help who glanced into his room through the window while walking across the courtyard says it was one of the elves who used to stay at the inn at the same time. Nobody has seen the bard since that evening.
Sarigar circles around the walls. While this town doesn't have slums, it does have more and less well-off parts. In the better neighborhoods his presence is noted with visible displeasure by pairs of eyes glancing out of round windows of houses with small gardens. The wild man notices that security is rather tight. Guards patrol the walls and the gates are manned by small squads of halfling soldiers. Non-halfling visitors are questioned by them when they leave. As expected the city turns out to be a giant maze of trails crossing one over another. It would take an epic display of skill to find the tracks of Rhiad in this chaos.
Draax spends some time with the stable boy. The young lad is very pleased that somebody is showing him interest and soon lets his tongue loose. His horse-lore is a mixture of sound facts and superstitions, but, among other things, Draxx learns the boy knocked at the door of Rhiad in the morning after his arrival to ask if he would like to have a horseshoe replaced on his mount, but there was nobody inside to answer. Same thing happened in the afternoon. Blackwing didn't come down to the stables to look at his horse even once, and the halfling is a bit disgusted at that show of disinterest.
After a sizeable supper the party lays down to rest. Benny goes to sleep in one of the corners on a small mattress he had brought in, turns his back to the room, and goes to sleep.
Rond spends the night watching comings and goings. It seems that there is quite a lot of activity going on well into the night. In fact, the merrymaking and drinking of ale continues in the main hall until early morning. Young cousin of Folko takes care of the taps. In the meanwhile, servant girls sweep the corridors. Roger doesn't notice any movement at all near the room of Rhiad. Asking around, he learns that nobody remembers ever seeing Blackwing leave the inn!
After a night of uninterrupted sleep the party is woken up early in the morning by Roger. As the Hamleters sit by the table having breakfast (Benny slurping on a bowl of oatmeal) they look out of the window and see that the weather has turned to light rain. There is gentle tapping of drops of water on the roof and the gutters have turned into small streams. It is the morning of the second day of their search. Five days remain until the festival of Gargul.
Roger Monday August 23rd, 2004 10:31:57 AM
Being sure to stay in character with Benny around, Roger passes on, "There was no real activity over the night to note, other than extended drinking. I have not come across any signs of our target."
With that Roger orders his breakfast and prepares to take a quick nap. As he downs his breakfast he'll listen in to the others as they report what they've been up to.
Renik d20=17 d20=11 Monday August 23rd, 2004 11:33:47 AM
Switching back to his Renik guise the rogue get's a night's sleep and heads down in the morning. He informs the others of his findings, and suggests that they try to learn more about any elves recently staying at the inn. He also suggests they try to find out what the encampment of elves outside the city walls is about.
He does as much of this as he is able out of earshot of the taciturn Benny. "Why did you bring Smiler along?" he asks Arien, a bit put out that their secret mission is under such scrutiny. "It's not even as if he's any help. Try pumping him for information, he must be useful for something."
After breakfast he continues his research in the Guise of Gullion, focusing on who the elves at the inn might have been. (Disguise 17+mod, Gather Info 11+mod)
Sarigar and Black Paws Monday August 23rd, 2004 1:02:05 PM
After spending the night outdoors, the brothers return to the inn. They both shake off the rain and mud they've no doubt collected and head over to the area the party's gathering.
"I hate cities. Too many trails. Couldn't find a thing, and won't be able to now with the rain. Scent's being washed away."
He grabs some grub and sits down with Black Paws, sharing with his brother.
Arien Monday August 23rd, 2004 3:31:10 PM
Arien shrugs when Renik asks about Benny and says, "I wanted to see if the authorites around here knew anything about our mark and I wound up with him in tow. I thought it would look bad if I said anything so I just smiled and went with it. Besides that, if anyone was to try to stir up a fuss about outsiders being here, I thought it best if we had connections to the guard. Anyway, did you find anything out about Rhiad? I think I'll go check out his room for myself. Maybe I can find out if any magic has been worked in there."
Arien heads back upstairs, checking discreetly to make sure Benny wasn't following, then standing outside of Rhiad's room, Arien dimension doors inside. Once inside he casts detect magic.
Tratain Monday August 23rd, 2004 11:43:09 PM
Tratain rests the night and memorizes some new spells that will hopefully help to locate the bard.
He tells the others discreetly that he is going to cast some spells to locate the Necklace of Health that was stolen.
He takes any of the others who wish to join him and casts locate object and attempts to locate the amulet of health that Kiriana described to them at the temple.
OOC: Tratain has memorized the spell 3 times. He will walk around town and cast the spells in different areas of town and see where it leads him.
------------------------- Condensed List of Spells Memorized: 0 level: Cure Minor Woundsx2; Detect Magicx3; Read Magic 1st Level: Bless; Shield of Faithx2; Divine Favor;Prot. From Evilx2;Comprehend Language(Sanctuary) 2nd Level: Endurance; Align Weapon; Locate Object(Spiritual Weapon) 3rd Level: Invisibility Purge; Prayer; Dispel Magicx2;Searing Light; (Protection from Energy) 4th Level: Freedom of Movement; Divine Power;Death Ward;Dimensional Anchor(Spell Immunity) 5th Level: True Seeing; Righteous Might;Quickened Divine Favor(Flame Strike) 6th Level: Heal; (Blade Barrier)
Feng Tuesday August 24th, 2004 12:00:46 AM
Feng eats quietly, thinking about their problem. They are finding some clues but nothing substantial. There is no way of knowing where he went or what happened. Hopefully they would get lucky.
Draax Tuesday August 24th, 2004 12:10:10 AM
Draax continues to befriend the stable boy. He goes to the stable for a couple of hours just to talk to the lad. He compliments the lad on his care of the horses and promises that when he comes back to the city he will make sure that he puts the care of his horse into the stable boy's hands.
After spending time with the stable boy and ensuring the horse is still there Draax goes into the main hall to sit, observe, and wait until the others return with whatever information they found.
Looking for clues - DM Marcin d6=4 [DM roll] Tuesday August 24th, 2004 1:38:14 AM
Roger goes to sleep as everyone else sets off to continue the search.
Draax spends some more time with the stable boy. The lad is delighted to have company other than horses and cows, but Draax does not learn anything new from him today.
Tratain uses Locate Object spells to hunt for the magic item that was supposedly carried by the bard. With three castings of the spell and relatively long range and duration of each he is able, when moving quickly along the streets with the spell active, to cover most of the city with his divinations. However, not even once he gets a mental ping. It is as if no such items were to be found in Angel Springs.
Renik, after finally being able to shake off Benny, who for a moment stays with Feng, is able to slip into his disguise yet again. Folko is glad to provide more information - as long as the strange human trader is willing to buy a drink or two.
"Ah yes, I used to have three elves here as guests. Arrived four days ago. Pretty rare to have the pointy ears in my inn, I tell you. Most of the ones who come to Angel Springs stay in the camp outside of the city walls. Elves mostly keep to themselves around these parts, especially since most of them come from the Forest of Culver. These three, however, were different. Looked like wizards. Long flowing robes, hoods, you know the fashion. Seemed to avoid contact with any of their kind. Took the room on the furthest end of the guest wing. Paid with shiny coins too, they did, and told me they wanted to stay for a week, but left two days ago. Pity."
Arien sneaks into the room of Rhiad and casts Detect Magic. Slowly turning around with his eyes half closed he concentrates on picking up any magic auras. There is the lingering aura left by his Dimension Door, and...
Bingo.
A lingering aura of multi-school magic. It fills the room like coils of an insubstantial serpent, as if whatever was its source was being carried around quite a bit. There is also one point where it has different structure, as if some effect has been activated there. The magic trail continues out of the room, but closed doors block the divination.
Gaxx d20=18 Tuesday August 24th, 2004 5:42:47 AM
Gaxx makes his way towards the elven encampment as this is the only place they have not looked for Rhiad. Along the way, he questions the halflings that are following him about the elves as to why they keep their own encampment rather than stay in town. (gather info-18)
Setanos Tuesday August 24th, 2004 7:58:29 AM
Setanos travels with Tratain, looking for any and all signs of their quarry, and generaly keeping him company.
Sarigar and Black Paws Tuesday August 24th, 2004 12:22:30 PM
The brothers finish their meals and doze off in a litle nap once again. From their posture, it's obvious they could awaken in an instant, fully alert.
Draax Tuesday August 24th, 2004 10:41:44 PM
Draax follows Gaxx example and heads towards the elfs' tent area. Knowing the type of attention the dwarf will create, Draax does not accompany the Dwarf. He follows a good distance behind the dwarf, ready to use the dwarf as a distraction if needed.
If he is not challenged, Draax will walk around the tents and get a feel for how friendly the elves are to strangers. If he is challenged, Draax will tell them that he was curious and wanted to know why the tents were located outside of the city.
Arien Wednesday August 25th, 2004 1:22:51 AM
Still concentrating on the spell Arien opens the door and follows the aura, ignoring anyone that might impede his tracking. If he sees any of the party members while tracking the aura he will wave them over to follow him.
Elves and magic - DM Marcin Wednesday August 25th, 2004 1:54:49 AM
Hoods drawn over their heads Gaxx and Draax travel to the elven encampment, and soon are soaked through by the warm rain. There are not that many people on the streets - a boon if you are a purple dwarf and do not want to draw a crowd. There are few people willing to spare a minute to stand in the rain and chat, but Gaxx manages to get some information out of the merchants on the market who tend to their stalls with rather bored expressions on their faces.
"Who knows what the elves are really thinking? Still, them keeping to themselves might have something to do with this druid problem we have. You see there is this Yoke - a bunch of crazy wild men - who would like nothing better than to see no halfling in the Forest ever again. There have been some... misunderstandings... in the past. My guess is, since the elves live in the wood, they might not want to take sides? Or maybe they just don't like our city? Eh, who knows what them fey folk think."
Soon both of the Hamleters pass through the city gate and over the bridge. The guards ask a few questions and take note of their names.
The tents of the elves are still where they have been seen yesterday. The rain has dulled their colors with shades of gray. An elven maiden in a white, flowing robe stands in the middle of the camp with her eyes closed, hands outstretched, and face turned to the sky. The heroes are still outside of the camp when she opens her eyes, turns to them, and says:
"Aiya, auta i lómë. Aurë síla lumenn' omentielvo."
[If you speak Elvish Highlight to display spoiler: {"Heya folks. How is it going?}]
Arien, still concentrated on his spell, tries the door handle, and is displeased to find the door locked, just as Setanos did yesterday. The key is nowhere to be seen. Unless Arien has another Dimension Door he might find himself trapped inside.
Benny, out in the main room with Feng, suddenly remembers his duties. "Where is everybody?"
Gaxx d20=2 Wednesday August 25th, 2004 5:37:15 AM
Gaxx stares at the elf maiden standing in the rain, idly wondering if anyone has ever told her that when white cloth gets wet, it becomes see through. His expression becomes bewildered when she speaks to him because he doesn't understand a word so he stops, figuring she wanted him to halt. He raises a friendly hand and waves. "Hi! Ummm......kin I come in ta your camp? I's got a question I was a hopin someone could hlep me wit." If the elf allows him, he approaches and asks about Rhiad. (gather info-2)
Feng Wednesday August 25th, 2004 8:04:00 AM
Feng orders himself a nice meal and looks for Benny. Perhaps a warm meal and friendly conversation will get him to relax.
Roger Wednesday August 25th, 2004 11:59:25 AM
(sorry for missed post)
Seeing as how it is evident that the target seems to be no longer in the city. Roger leaves it up to the spell casters to figure out what may have happened to their target.
Keeping open to Wardd's luck, Roger decides that he'll do his best to wander around town and keep an eye out. Even in a gloomy day as today, sometimes you might pick something up, that you wouldn't otherwise.
Sarigar and Black Paws d20+13=21 Wednesday August 25th, 2004 1:06:29 PM
The brothers stir every so often to get more comfortable, but continue their nap. ZZZZ ZZZz ZZzz Zzzz zzzz
Although seemingly oblivious to their surroundings in the commons room, they are both quite alert for things such as their names, sounds that might be construed as an attack, or sounds that people are approaching them. (Listen 21)
Setanos Wednesday August 25th, 2004 2:25:43 PM
Setanos continues to travel with Tratain, keeping eyes and ears open for clues as to the where abouts of their quarry.
Arien Wednesday August 25th, 2004 2:44:04 PM
Annoyed that the door was closed, Arien casts dimension door and exits into the party's room so as to not startle anyone who might be passing by. Arien walks downstairs and orders a meal and sits down by Feng. Arien will wait for the rest of the group to get back to report his findings.
Renik Wednesday August 25th, 2004 3:21:44 PM
(Sorry for the missed post)
Renik chats a while with Arien, interested to learn of his discoveries. If there is time remaining he will try to pursuade him to continue his magical trail where he left off.
Tratain d20+1=13 Wednesday August 25th, 2004 10:59:39 PM
Tratain says to Setanos "My Spells are not detcting the amulet of health, its either not in the city limits or something is blocking the spells. I should have picked up something even if it wasn't the necklace we were looking for. We should probably go tell the others, though lets see if there is a Temple to Domi here in the City. We can inquire there about the man we are searching for or any other oddities about the city and surrounding land."
Tratain Looks for a Temple Dedicated to Domi and asks the priests there about the man they are searching for or if anything is amiss in the general area (Gather Info 13)
Draax Thursday August 26th, 2004 12:05:53 AM
Draax smiles at the maiden and replies in elven. "It is going well my lady. How is it going with you? I am Andraaxius and my purple dwarven friend is Gaxx. May I ask what your name is?"
He lets Gaxx ask his question and will translate if needed before asking the elf about the encampment. "I am surprised to find a small elven community outside of a halfling town and was wondering why. If it is not too great of a secret, can you tell me the purpose of the people camping out here? If it is none my business, that is acceptable too."
Draax waits to hear what the maiden has to say.
Continuing the search - DM Marcin Thursday August 26th, 2004 1:33:23 AM
Feng, who is in the common room, is joined by Arien. The little halfling guard seems to be getting impatient, but apparently does not dare to show that to the Hamleters.
"Well, what are your plans for today, sirs?"
Quiet snoring of Sarigar can be heard coming from the party's room.
Gaxx and Draax walk up to the elven maiden. Gaxx notices that her robe is made of wool, not silk, and can be worn with modesty even in rainy weather.
"Her name is Silianna." - comes a voice from one of the tents. "And she doesn't speak Common."
A slender elf emerges from the tent. "I am Gileal, a herbalist by trade."
After the heroes state their business and ask their questions the elf answers in a melodic tone of voice: "Of this man Rhiad I know not. I haven't been inside the city walls for a few days."
"There is quite a lot of us passing through Angel Springs, and when we camp, we camp outside. Normally there are fewer tents, but we are expecting many of our blood to come here soon for the Election. Maybe some might see our voluntary separation from the rest of the community as something elitist and arrogant, but I assure you all there is to it is the fact that some of us like to wake up and see sky over our heads, not roof and walls around us."
Tratain and Setanos find the worship place of the followers of Domi. It is more a shrine than a temple, and they find an older human sweeping the small yard. "I'm Shepherd. Well, that's not my real name, but the kids around here started calling me that and the nickname stuck. I am the resident cleric of Domi in Angel Springs. I have heard of your arrival and was very curious, especially when I was told some of you bore symbols of Domi on your armor."
The man invites the heroes to a small house on the back of the shrine and offers them tea. When the purpose of the visit is explained he takes a few sips from his mug and says:
"Nothing is <amiss> in the town, Domi be praised. Not since the Giant Towers were erected. You couldn't find a nicer town to stay in within a hundred miles, I'm sure. In fact, my assignment here is more like a retirement" -he smiles. "No duties more serious than to set a broken leg from time to time or assist in the training of the local militia."
"This man you ask about? I haven't met him, but then again I don't get to rub elbows with newcomers all that much. Was he a follower of Domi? Why do you want to find him?"
Roger wanders around the town. Soon after he leaves the inn he notices he is being followed. In fact, there is a small procession of older halflings dressed in bright clothes trying to keep up with his long strides. A rather rotund fellow is in the lead, huffing and puffing, and trying to do his best to maintain a semblance of dignity and not to step into a puddle of mud at the same time.
Gaxx d20+8=16 Thursday August 26th, 2004 5:43:29 AM
Gaxx looks around the encampment with curiousity while Draxx talks to the elves since he can understand what they say. He is a little disappointed that they haven't seen Rhiad but isn't really surprised. Rhiad is proving to be quite a sneaky guy. As long as Gaxx doesn't spot anything to catch his curiousity, he will wait until Draxx is done then thank the elves for their help and leave. (spot-16)
Renik Thursday August 26th, 2004 7:32:37 AM
"Well, Arien? Shall we follow this magical trail together?" asks the rogue.
Sarigar and Black Paws d20+19=33 Thursday August 26th, 2004 10:52:53 AM
Done with their quick nap, the brothers awaken, take big stretches, then head on downstairs and out the door without so much as a word. Once outside, they circle the building, just on the off chance they can spot/smell something. They focus on the area under the window of the room the others have determined is Rhiad's (Tracking 33).
If no salvageable trail is found, they will head back to the stables where he found the horse. If the stableboy is still around he'll start questioning him. Although not trying to be intimidating or mean, he is quite blunt which could easily be construded in that way.
Rider of this horse, where is he? Did he leave anything besides this stuff? pointing to the tack. If yes, Lemme see it, which definitely comes across as an order and not a request. Where'd he go from here? Have you seen him since he left?
Draax d20+5=15 Thursday August 26th, 2004 3:00:34 PM
Still speaking in elven Draax says, "Well met Gileal, as I was saying to Silianna, my name is Andraaxius and this is my friend Gaxx." Switching to common for Gaxx's benefit Draax says, "That explains why the only elves I see in the city are adventurers. I kind of guessed that those in the tents were staying out here for the open skies, but when the proprietor of the Glassy Gaze Inn told me that some non-adventuring elves stayed at his inn a few days ago, I thought that maybe I was wrong, and my curiosity made me come out to see for myself." Draax takes a moment to scan the area and look at the tents (spot check 15). If nothing catches his eye he will switch back to elven and says, "Thank you for answering our questions and good day to you sir." As he turns to leave Draax bows to Silianna and addresses her in elven. "And good day to you too lady Silianna."
If there is nothing there that catches their attention Draax will head back to the inn with Gaxx.
Feng Thursday August 26th, 2004 5:45:48 PM
Feng takes a long gulp out of his glass to wash down the last of his meal. He turns to the halfling assigned to watch them and says,"I was wondering if you had any stories you'd like to tell. Angel Springs is a big place. Surely you've been involved with some interesting situations."
Tratain Thursday August 26th, 2004 11:44:56 PM
Tratain says to the Priest, "Not long ago Plateau City was attacked by several Dragons -- I'm sure you have heard. During the attack one of the Temple Priests was killed, either by the man we seek or the dragons we do not know who actually killed him. But that priest was tasked with protecting an item important to the city, we know that the man we look for took it, and everything else the priest had. The other clerics were able to use their magics and determine that he came here. But when he got to Angel Springs something blocked their magics. I have cast several spells myself attempting to locate one of the items taken, an amulet of Health, but my spells have turned up nothing. I should have been lead to it or another like it but I got nothing, like there are none at all here. Tomorrow I was going to use one of the spells to locate something I own so I know whether or not the item isn't in the town, or if something is blocking my magic."
Roger Thursday August 26th, 2004 11:55:07 PM
Roger slows his pace to see if his followers will catch up to him, or just trail behind.
If they decide to catch up, and if the wheezing continues, Roger will eventually turn and ask, "Is there something I can help you with?"
If they do not decide to follow, Roger decides to lead them on a merry chase around Angel Springs, just to see if they have the stamina to keep up.
Arien Friday August 27th, 2004 2:15:24 AM
"I wish I could, however at the moment I have no more spells memorized to detect the aura, should some of the others return, they will probably have the ability. Then again we may just want to wait until morning so we will all be about. You know, none of that divide and conquer thing going on."
Trying to find a bard in a halfling town is like - well, you know - DM Marcin Friday August 27th, 2004 2:50:20 AM
Gaxx and Draax exchange some polite remarks with Gileal. When told about elves staying inside the walls he looks genuinely surprised. "Well, they must have been from other parts of the Wold. Any elf from Crescent Valley knows about our camp here, and even if he decides to stay in one of the inns he comes here first to see who else is in town and say his hellos. Still, as I said, I haven't left the camp for a few days and haven't seen them myself."
Gileal turns to Silianna and exchanges a few words with her in elven.
"Wait. Silianna says she remembers them. Three fellows who looked like mages and seemed to carry arcane equipment with them. She saw them near the bridge. She says they were talking among themselves, but not in elvish. She greeted them, but they just pulled on their hoods and rode by."
Draax and Gaxx discretely look around. The camp seems to be prepared for an arrival of a large number of guests, but aside from that nothing of significance can be seen.
Tratain and Setanos continue their conversation with Shepherd.
"I would be very surprised if something was blocking your spells" -says the old priest. "I am using magic in various parts of the city on a daily basis and I have never encountered any kind of blockade. You shouldn't be too surprised that your spell didn't pick anything up, though. Seven thousand gold is more money than most of the townsfolk will ever see pass through their hands during their entire lives. There probably are less than twenty people in Angel Springs who could afford it, but most prefer other, utilitarian magic."
"Not sure how I could help you in your search, but if I can be of any use just ask."
Refreshed from his sleep, Sarigar resumes his search. The window itself hasn't been opened in a long while - maybe not even once since it was set in. The small panes of glass are dusty and hard to see through.
Wait.
There are some tracks here, a few days old. Small feet. A halfling child? The person was standing there for some time, and then left. Sarigar is able to follow the tracks, even though they go through the courtyard that is right now being rained upon. They get more difficult to follow when he reaches hardwood floor of the inn, but still he manages to walk along them as far as to the kitchen, where the floor has been swept and the trail destroyed. There are several halflings in here busy with cooking and preparation of meals. The air is full of steam and smell of various foods and spices.
On his way back the wild man has a little conversation with the stable boy. The halfling doesn't know where is the rider of the horse, doesn't know about any other items belonging to him aside from the saddlebags (and, just in case, swears he didn't take anything), hasn't seen the bard since he left his horse at the stables, and, unlike Folko, is sure that the man is gone and won't be coming back.
Renik suggests following the magic trail, but Arien is out of Detect Magic spells.
Feng tries to loosen the tongue of Benny. The halfling's stare is blank for a moment and the paladin thinks that there might be no answer, but finally the guard blurts out: "Oh, I have a story to tell all right, mister."
Benny continues after a short pause. Feng notices a lot of emotions hidden under an impassive tone of voice.
"It will be about a guard and a girl named Ivy. The guard was madly in love with her. She liked him more and more with every day. Then, one day, another halfling came. This little bastard had his pockets full of his father's gold and was throwing it all around. 'A magic ring for you, my dear', he said. 'I'll be an adventurer, my dear', he said."
"He kept putting thoughts about 'adventure' into her head until the lass, who should have known better, agreed to go with him on some crazy journey."
"Two weeks later he shows up alone and says Ivy 'got lost in the Scab'. Then the little filth, having had his 'adventure', returns to running his father's mill in Humble's Ford."
"The guard is left alone walking the streets. The guard sees more and more adventurers show up in Angel Springs with every year. The guard sees children playing adventurers and giants and he wonders how many of them will run away from home and pointlessly lose their lives somewhere in the Scab or Red Hills."
There is a moment of silence. Then Benny suddenly says: "Nothing too interesting going on lately in Angel Springs, mister paladin." His tone of voice is calm again, as if his sudden outburst never happened.
Roger lets the group of halflings catch up to him. The leader takes a moment to catch his breath and run his hand through his wet hair. Then he speaks out in a solemn tone of voice:
"Dear Sir! I am Faragast Sheepshearer. On behalf of Calfast, the future Burgomeister, and the Adventure Party, I have the privilege to extend an invitation to you and your friends to attend our Election Party. We would be honored if you agreed to grace our humble enterprise with the presence of you and your esteemed companions."
Having said his piece, the halfling stands in the rain with his hat in his hands. The crowd behind him is silent and tense, waiting for an answer.
Gaxx Friday August 27th, 2004 5:40:13 AM
Gaxx, realizing that they are having very little luck in finding their target, pauses at the bridge to ask the guards if there is a temple or shrine to Wardd in the city. If so, he asks for directions then heads that way in search of a bit of luck.
Sarigar and Black Paws d20+19=38 Friday August 27th, 2004 10:37:30 AM
With the discovery of the little footprints, Sarigar decides that he should find Rond/Roger as he seems to be another tracker. Perhaps the three of them might be able to determine who the footprints belonged to and perhaps pick up the trail (Tracking 38 to pick up Rond/Roger's trail and locate him).
Once/if he catches up to Rond/Roger, "Think I got somethin'. Might need your help in pickin' out the prey though."
Feng Friday August 27th, 2004 7:26:06 PM
Feng takes a deep breath. He felt Benny's pain and knew that he could do something about it.
"Benny I do not know the area very well. If you can provide me with a map to the Scab I will find Ivy or learn what happened to her. We have a pressing matter but I will make time to do this."
Draax Sunday August 29th, 2004 5:40:32 PM
Draax translates what Silianna says to common for Gaxx. In elven again he says, "Thank you Silianna. Do you remember seeing them leave? Their impolite manner makes me think that they might have something to do with the disappearance of the bard, Rhiad. Anything else that you remember about them could be helpful."
Whether Silianna can or cannot provide anymore information, Draax formally bows to both and heads back to the inn.
Renik Sunday August 29th, 2004 7:35:10 PM
The rogue suggest to Arien that they join Feng and Benny at the bar. Before they go he says
"I think we need to regroup and tackle this thing together. Let's wait until the others return from their investigations, compare notes and decide what to do next as a group. I just wish we could shake our halfling chaperone. He doesn't look right to me. Not one of the team."
Tratain Sunday August 29th, 2004 11:41:49 PM
Tratain says, "Hmmm, I'm not sure how you could help. Do you know of any areas near the town where one could hide out if necessary? The man we are looking for was here not too long ago, I don't think he could have gone far unless he has accomplices with Travel Magics."
Roger d20-1=7 Monday August 30th, 2004 12:41:47 AM
Having paused to find out what the little troupe wants. Roger groans inwardly to himself as he realizes that the party may or may not be in for a treat should the join the party.
Not wanting to offend the people, nor wanting to commit the group to anything, Roger attempts to reply (Diplomacy=7), "It is kind of you to offer the invitation to the group. I will be sure to put the invitation on the agenda for my next meeting with my leader. He will be the one to be able to give a response in due time. I do have several things to complete before I meet up with my leader, so if you gentlefolk will excuse me, I must be attending to my duties."
With that Roger moves briskly out of sight, doing his best not to let them ask any follow up questions or comments. As he walks away from the group, Roger shakes his head from in side his cloak. He wishes he had the skill with words, the way his friend Bill did.
Shrines, tracks, maps, and halflings - lots of halflings - DM Marcin Monday August 30th, 2004 2:01:18 AM
Draax questions the pair of elves for another moment and learns nothing new. Neither has been interested in finding out more about the rude strangers and neither knows if they are still in Angel Springs. Seeing that there will be no more information coming from this source Draax and Gaxx leave for the inn. On their way to the Glassy Gaze the purple dwarf inquires about a shrine to Wardd. As it turns out, the city has a small park dedicated entirely to worship places of various gods. The place is empty at this time of day and Gaxx wanders for a moment in silence among the shrines and trees. He quickly locates a statue dedicated to Warrd. On his way back he spots one honoring Gargul, too.
Tratain and Setanos question Shepherd some more. "A place to hide? It would be both easy and hard to find a secluded spot outside the town. You see, most of the land around Angel Springs has been claimed by farmers. Somebody camping in a patch of woods would be noticed pretty fast and at the very least questioned. But if reasonable excuse was given, would the farmer ever bother to tell anyone about him?"
Roger tries to politely decline the invitation and sees that it didn't quite work. Mister Sheepshearer goes red on his face as if he has been just deeply hurt. "But... but..." The crowd murmurs in amazement. Apparently nobody expected this kind of answer. Roger quickly leaves behind the bewildered halflings and, moment later, stumbles into Sarigar, who shares his discoveries with him.
Benny looks at Feng for a long time. "You would? It's been more than two years since she disappeared..."
Something starts to stir inside the little guard. Embers of hope, long cold, start to glow again. They say, after all, that hope is the part of the man that is most difficult to kill.
"Tell you what. Please wait a minute." Benny walks away and comes back with a page of paper and pencil. Then, having wiped away beer stains from the table with his sleeve, he spreads the page on it and starts to draw a map of Crescent Valley. It doesn't take much effort to see that some kind of change is slowly coming over Benny. For one thing, with every minute he seems to be filled with more and more energy and enthusiasm.
"You see, here we are - Angel Springs. The Scab is to the north, behind the wall. It is a mountainous and wild region, inhabited by giants, their kin, and other monstrosities. At least so they say - I haven't ever seen a giant, but fellows from the militia squads manning the outposts talk about seeing them occasionally on the horizon. The Giant Towers ban them access to the Valley."
"I guess the first thing we would have to do would be to travel to Humble's Ford, find Milton the Miller, and shake out of him the true story of what happened to Ivy."
Some time passes. It is late morning when Renik finally gets his wish and sees the party gathered together in the Glassy Gaze. Benny doesn't seem to be much problem at the moment. He and Feng sit at a table in the corner over a page of paper, deeply engaged in conversation.
Gaxx Monday August 30th, 2004 5:34:51 AM
When the group gathers together, Gaxx will point out the Shrine to Gargul to Renik. "Ya tink dat if we not be ready ta head back ta Plateau City in time fo da festival, dat we could work at da shrine instead?"
Setanos Monday August 30th, 2004 8:06:42 AM
Setanos nods at Shepherd. "Ye be right there, they woudnna say a thing. Cept if someone asks em about it." Setanos thinks for a moment. "Do ya think ya could come with us, ta ask some o the farmers if they saw sumthin like that? They would be wary o us alone I think."
Renik Monday August 30th, 2004 4:17:40 PM
The rogue nods at Gaxx's idea. "The rate we're going we could be here a while. It makes sense."
He tries to take stock of where they're at.
"OK, what leads do we have? Arien has been following a magical trail from the room. If anyone else can detect magic we could pursue that. It would seem the three elves are just as elusive as our quarry. Maybe that will help us track them down.
What other avenues are open to us? Have your own researches opened up any potential leads?"
Roger d20=3 d20=13 Monday August 30th, 2004 11:31:51 PM
Having met up with the other tracker, Roger follows him back to where he thinks he has picked up a possible trail.
Between the two of them they try to piecemeal things together. (sheet not avail just now) (Search and track straight rolls)
If Roger gets the time, he'll relay the invite to a party to Renik. He'll also inform him that he might have not accepted the proposal very well, either.
Draax Tuesday August 31st, 2004 12:09:35 AM
Draax heads back to the inn to hear what the others have found out. He checks in on the bard's horse and asks the stable boy does he remember the elves' horses and/or the elves themselves.
Feng Tuesday August 31st, 2004 12:21:50 AM
Feng takes a deep breath wondering how well this will go over with the others. Regardless this is something he needs to do. It is not unheard of for people to overcome adversity and survive despite the odds.
"I do not know how to say this but I must take a temporary leave from you all. I am doing no good with our current search and something has come to my attention. Benny and I are heading to an area called the scab. It is a mountaneous wild regoin north of here. Someone has gone missing and her fate must be learned."
Picking up loose ends - DM Marcin Tuesday August 31st, 2004 1:25:53 AM
Shepherd nods at Setanos' request. "I'll ask around. How did the man whom you are trying to find look like again?" After hearing the description of Rhiad for the second time he says he will do a little asking himself and suggests a meeting tomorrow in the morning.
Sarigar and Roger examine the tracks of small shoes again and both come to a conclusion that it had to be a halfling child. There are many of them around; but, true to halfling's customs, almost none wear any kind of footwear, preferring to walk bare-footed. This makes finding the person who left the tracks a lot easier. After an hour spent around the inn they notice a rather grandmotherish looking halfling lady leaving the inn with an empty basket in her hand. A young halfling girl, maybe eight years old or so, walks along her holding to her skirt. She has flip-flop sandals on her feet. The tracks left by the girl seem to match those under the window.
Draax pays the stable boy another visit. The lad, growing comfortable with his presence, offers him some wine, no doubt taken from Folko's cellar.
"The elves? I remember them well, sir. Came into the inn last week. Extraordinary horses if I may say so myself, sir. Well tended to, strong, and obedient. One of the elves used to come here every morning to tend to them, so I didn't have many reasons to look at them closer. But I did anyway and I'll tell you this." The lad lowers his voice. "The horseshoes on one of them? Magic, no two ways about it. Haven't seen anything like that ever before: no wear on them whatsoever, and not made of iron, either."
"Anyway, they left two days ago, the morning after this fellow came in. Left rather in a hurry, I would say. You usually ask around for trail rations before you leave and such. But they? Just packed up and left."
Feng declares his desire to separate from the group. Benny, visibly excited, asks for the rest of the day to terminate his employment with the guard and take care of his family obligations, and suggests leaving the first thing tomorrow morning.
Tratain Tuesday August 31st, 2004 1:27:14 AM
Tratain Tells the Priest, "If you could keep your ears open for us and let us know if you hear of anything strange it would be appreciated."
Tratain returns to the Inn and informs the others about what he has learned, that most likely the person they search for is not still at angel springs unless something is blocking his magic.
Tratain will cast detect magic and try and help pick up the trail if it is pointed out to him.
Tratain also tells Feng, "I would suggest that you help us finish here, and then we can all go to the Scab, its not a place you want to go alone, I've done it. If the person you are searching for is still alive you may need help rescueing them. Just the two of you going would probably get the both of you killed, it would be best to wait untill we can all go."
Joe OOC Tuesday August 31st, 2004 1:28:32 AM
Oops, posted the same time as Marcin almost :)
Detecting Magic - DM Marcin Tuesday August 31st, 2004 1:38:57 AM
The trail fills the inn, coiling inside the narrow corridors of the guest wing, invisible to all but arcane eyes. It is sometimes stronger, sometimes weaker, and from place to place faded altogether. Whatever was its source has been brought into the Glassy Gaze from the stables. The magic tracks point to the furthest room in the guest wing. The door to that room, like to most other rooms, is closed. Then there is another branch, leading to Rhiad's chamber, and presumably back again. Finally, the source of the aura left the inn and passed back into the stables. This final part of the aura seems a bit stronger than the rest. This is all the duration of the spell allows Tratain to learn.
Gaxx Tuesday August 31st, 2004 5:40:36 AM
Gaxx waddles forward once Tratain's spell expires. "I kin cast da seein of magic, too!" He quickly prays, asking Mister Wardd to kindly show him the magic Tratain was following and follows along the trail until his spell expires. If the party needs it, Gaxx will cast Detect Magic again to continue following the trail.
Setanos Tuesday August 31st, 2004 7:34:51 AM
Thanking the Shepherd, Setanos returns to the group with Tratain. Following Gaxx, Tratain and the others, he watches quietly. He says that he has two spells of Detect Magic memorized should they be needed.
Sarigar and Black Paws d20+25=36 d20+30=35 d20+19=33 Tuesday August 31st, 2004 10:34:23 AM
The brothers will begin to follow the Grandmother and child at a fairly extreme distance so as not to alert them to his presence. From their posture, a skilled hunter/woodsman would realize that they are actually hunting the halflings (Move Silently 36, Hide 35, Tracking 33).
OOC: Due to the distance at which he's following, it is possible they may move out of sight from time to time and the tracking roll is to not lose them in such cases.
Draax Tuesday August 31st, 2004 2:07:15 PM
Draax smiles at the lad and tosses him a silver piece, "You have been most helpful to me with sharing your knowledge of horses and being alert enough to provide me with this information. Next time I need information I will know to come to you first."
Draax goes back to the others and adds the knowledge of the magical horseshoes to the puzzle.
Draax is a little surprised about Feng's decision, but also knows that a paladin must follow his heart. He is a little ashamed that he is happier to get Benny out of their hair than he is worried about Feng's putting himself in danger.
Renik d20+9=24 Tuesday August 31st, 2004 4:41:10 PM
The rogue activates his blink ring, and asking someone to keep a lookout for him slips into what he presumes to be the elves' room. Once again he gives the place a thorough search (Search 24). He then blinks back to the others to report any findings.
"Feng, are you sure of this decision? As Tratain says, if you can only wait until this task is done I will gladly join you on any quest you deem worthy. Must you leave at once?"
Feng Tuesday August 31st, 2004 6:22:59 PM
"Wait for how long? Are we any closer to ending this? It could be another week at least if not much longer. Though I will not decide on such a matter. That decision shall fall to Benny. If he wishes to leave at once then that is what we will do."
Roger Wednesday September 1st, 2004 12:16:44 AM
As soon as they pick up the trail, Roger motions for the others to keep following, as he'll return and report.
Once back at the inn, Roger will motion that he needs a moment in the room to let Renik know of what has transpired.
Once in the room Roger says, " I've bumped into Sarigar and we've found and are following some child that may have seen something, but we're not sure what it means as of right now. Sarigar will join us as soon as he can."
"BTW we've been invited to a dinner/party with one of the candidates. I'm not so sure I said the right things."
Searching the room of the elves - DM Marcin Wednesday September 1st, 2004 2:23:51 AM
Sarigar follows the grandmotherly person and her ward. The pair walks resolutely in the direction of the market and, once there, starts browsing various stalls for food. Soon the basket starts being filled with apples, potatoes, onions, carrots, and other choice vegetables and fruit. The grandma wipes a large apple on her skirt and hands it to the girl, who laughs and starts to enthusiastically chew on it, sprinkling everyone nearby with juice. Meanwhile, Sarigar and Black Paws have a following of their own: a small group of street urchins. Some of them, with total lack of self-preservation instincts, repeatedly try to touch Black Paws fur.
After about half an hour or so the two halfling ladies - young and old - leave the marketplace and head back to the inn. The basket is filled to the top.
Meanwhile, the party has already been alerted about this strange pair by Roger, who also mentions his rather awkward encounter with local officials.
Draax thanks the stable boy. The lad is enthusiastic to make such an important friend. "Pity you don't have horses, sir. I would take best care of them. Choice oats, brushed twice a day. Well, maybe next time. You will be coming back from time to time, won't you?"
Feng stands by his decision to accompany Benny the Guard on his search of his lost love. For the moment the halfling is gone, "taking care of loose ends", as he said. He promised to show up again in the evening.
Setanos and Gaxx continue along the magic trail. There are two branches of the aura leaving the inn. One of them, somewhat weaker and seemingly older, connects the Glassy Gaze with the Trade Gate and the bridge on Crescent River. The trail extends further along the Trade Road. The second, stronger branch, passes through the city until it reaches West Gate. Then it follows along the road heading north into the countryside.
Renik invites himself into the room occupied previously by the elves. Either by design or by chance the guests chose a room with only one small window. The stable boy has been piling manure on the outside just under it, so Renik doesn't have to worry that somebody might accidentally glance through and see him at work.
Three mattresses stand lined up against the wall. A broom, a mop, and a bucket have been left in the middle of the floor, indicating that somebody is supposed to be cleaning the chamber but decided instead to go slacking off somewhere else.
Renik goes through the room and finds some details that might be of significance. The mattresses have smears of some tan colored substance on them. If he wasn't using one on his own he might have never recognized it as face paint from a disguise kit. There is an empty container of golden hair dye in the bucket, together with other, less significant trash: leftover food and such.
Kneeling on the floor Renik picks up a long hair.
It is white.
These activities take a little more than an hour. It is now around noon.
Gaxx Wednesday September 1st, 2004 5:46:19 AM
Gaxx looks up at Setanos, "How far do ya tink we should be a followin dis trail? Mayhap we should be a fetchin da oders ta come wit us."
Sarigar and Black Paws Wednesday September 1st, 2004 11:38:02 AM
Following the grandmother and child back to the inn, the brothers try to position themselves near the party, but also where they can keep an eye on their quarry. He watches them with a hunters gaze, barely moving, as if, should he move, his prey might try to bolt.
He says nothing, just nods his head in the direction of the pair of halflings, should any of the party ask what he's doing.
Renik Wednesday September 1st, 2004 3:52:49 PM
Blinking back out to rejoin the others the rogue shows the hair and tells of the face paint.
"I thought there was something fishy about those "elves". It looks like Rhiad was meeting with Drow."
Perhaps we should consider sharing this information with the elven encampment? They may prove natural allies..."
Feng Wednesday September 1st, 2004 4:43:17 PM
"Our own dealings with the dark elves have not been good. There is the chance, albeit a small one, that any dark elves we meet know of us."
Draax Wednesday September 1st, 2004 9:34:24 PM
When the stable boy asks Draax about returning from time to time the half-elf smiles at the boy, "Ya never know about where the life of an adventurer will take him, but if I am able I will make sure I stop by every now and then."
Draax moans when he hears that the drow are involved. He is not looking forward to another clash with the dark elves.
Roger Thursday September 2nd, 2004 12:59:37 AM
Not knowing if and when Sarigar might need a break, Roger lays down to catch a quick nap.
It takes him a little while to drift off, as he worries whether the party is too split up, trying to find their target?
"I have just one question..." - DM Marcin Thursday September 2nd, 2004 3:51:10 AM
Gaxx wonders how far the trail might go along the road. The part analyzed so far stuck to it, but does the aura deviate from the trail anywhere along the way? Who can tell? If not, it might go miles into the Crescent Valley.
Sarigar follows the pair back to the inn. There the grandma goes straight to the kitchen, where she starts a friendly argument with someone over the quality of the onions she bought. The girl runs out into the courtyard and joins a group of children playing there.
Renik reports his findings to the rest of the group.
About an hour later the heroes get an unexpected visitor. Arien recognizes the small halfling straight away: Thomas Thimble, the Chief of the Watch, walks into the Glassy Gaze, and it doesn't take very keen eye to see that he is positively fuming. The red on his face stands in a nice contrast with his blonde hair. After having a word with now rather scared Folko he heads straight for the table occupied by the party and asks in an icy cold tone of voice: "I have just one question: what have you done to my man Benny?"
Gaxx Thursday September 2nd, 2004 5:39:34 AM
Gaxx returns to the Inn to give his findings to the others, only to arrive just behind the Chief of the Watch. He waits patiently, wondering who this Benny guy is and what might have happened to him. When he gets a chance to speak with Renik, he tells him what they found and urges that they move quickly before the trail fades away.
Sarigar and Black Paws Thursday September 2nd, 2004 11:01:52 AM
Hearing the terms Drow and Dark Elves, especially in relation to their chosen quarry, an low audible growl begins to emanate from deep in the chest and throat of Sarigar. The look of intensity in his eyes shifts from keen watchfulness to one of anger, hatred and vengence.
With an almost growl he asks, "Where were they?! We will hunt them down! If they are the ones that killed my pack, they will feel our pain and anger! He looks directly Renik since he has the physical proof in his hands. The look in his eyes is almost crazed. Black Paws seems to be mirroring his brothers anger as if he's sharing the rage of his brother.
Setanos Thursday September 2nd, 2004 1:48:39 PM
Setanos looks around at the others for explanations about this Benny, hoping one of the others will speak up about where he might be.
Arien Thursday September 2nd, 2004 2:28:22 PM
Arien remembers the last dealings they had with the Drow and wondered if these were the same ones as before.
Renik Thursday September 2nd, 2004 4:01:42 PM
"Your man Benny? Ah, then you must be the Chief. My name is Renik Dacour, and I lead this group. In truth, sir, it is not what we have done with Benny, but what Benny has done to us. But let me explain.
"Your man, it seems, has been harboring a love-born rage for some time. It seems his sweetheart vanished some time ago, and he is desperate to retrieve her. It is blind chance (though some might claim it the will of the Gods) that he chose the one man on my team soft-hearted enough (some might say soft-headed enough)," he adds with a friendly wink at Feng, "to discuss his feelings with. As a paladin our friend Feng feels honour-bound to accompany Benny on his mission. So if you are angry at the loss of your man, I am no less chagrined at the loss of mine. However some things simply are; there is nothing to be done about it. I learned long ago never to argue with the logic of love."
"However, your arrival here may yet prove serendipitous. It seems the man we seek met with (and possibly left with or met his end at the hands of) three Drow disguised as travelling elven mages. We have a fresh magical trail leading out of the city, and once my companions Sarigar and Black Paws here have had a chance to pick up a scent in their room (with your consent of course, Chief and Folko) we will have an olofactory trail also. Time is of the essence! If we are to find our man these Drow are our best and most tangible lead. I would welcome your assistance on this mission Chief, but if you consider our destination out of your juristiction you can at least look on the bright side; this troublesome band of adventurers will be out of your hair, and the Drow who have infiltrated your fair city will be brought to task!" He smiles at the Chief, hoping he has won him over, or at least cooled his anger.
Feng Thursday September 2nd, 2004 5:35:53 PM
"I must disagree with you sir, Benny is his own man. I simply offered to assist him in this. He was not pressured in any way. When we return you might find that you have a better man working for you. People perform better when they are happy."
Draax Thursday September 2nd, 2004 10:59:33 PM
Draax listens as Renik addresses the angry chief and hopes that the halfling does not hamper the group's opportunity to pick up the drow's trail.
Gaxx Friday September 3rd, 2004 6:54:15 AM
At the sound of Sarigar growling, Gaxx makes sure to put Renik between him and the angry wolfman.
Talking with Thomas Thimble - DM Marcin Friday September 3rd, 2004 11:04:14 AM
The outburst of rage from Sarigar and his animal companion sends the nearby halflings under their tables. The crowd withdraws, but then spreads around in a wide circle. Some betting starts on whether Sarigar is going to tear off his clothes and change into a werewolf. It seems that the period of peace enjoyed by the Valley did a lot of damage to the self-preservation instincts of the populace.
The Chief spreads his hands in disbelief. "What mission?! There has never been talk of any kind of mission until you showed up!"
"When you return? <IF> you return, you better say, Sir! We are talking about Scab here: giant kin of the foulest kind and worse! Maybe you are forged of the stuff hard enough to withstand Scab, but Benny is not! He is just a guard who some time ago slowly started getting on with his life, and now you show up and rekindle all his vain hopes! It has been what, two years since his loss? Is there ANY real hope of this stupid girl being still alive? Is it going to make him a 'better man' if he stands for a minute over her grave, if there even is one? I don't want him to be a 'better man'. I want him to be a good halfling living in the present, not in the past!"
"And now he runs into my office and tells me he quits his job and goes off to search for Ivy!..."
The mind of the Chief is taken off Benny with the questions about the dark elves.
"These were Drow? How did you figure that out? Out of my jurisdiction? Well what IS your destination, then? You can search the room, but I want to be there when you do it. And what kind of assistance do you want from me? Oh, and yes, I would like nothing better than to have the troublesome band of adventurers out of my hair. I have enough work on my hands as it is with the Election coming up, and I don't need the Burgomeister sending people down from the Castle to ask me to keep an eye on you."
Thomas pulls out his notebook, flips it over, and starts to page through it. It has a visible calming effect on him.
"These three elves - well, drow you say - left Angel Springs the day before yesterday in early morning. They departed through the West Gate and were headed north."
Sarigar and Black Paws d20+19=34 d20+3=7 Friday September 3rd, 2004 12:12:25 PM
Fists clenched so tightly that the knuckles turn bright white and if looked at closely, a few droplets of blood begin to squeeze. With the mention of a room, Sarigar only assumes it's one upstairs. The borthers bolt up the stairs with adrenaline boosted speed and begin looking and sniffing around, spcifically for Renik's scent near a particular door other than the group's room (Tracking 34).
Once the "right" door has been found, he does have presence of mind actually try the handle. If locked and if no one seems to be coming to open it, he will try to bash it in (Strength Check 7).
ooc: Please note, he won't try to batter the door down if someone follows him up to open it in a more gentle manner.
Roger Saturday September 4th, 2004 10:22:32 PM
Rolling his eyes to himself, Roger worries to see what Renik will do.
Seeing Sarigar run off on his own, Roger is once again reminded about how sponaneous the Hamleteers always seem to become.
Renik Sunday September 5th, 2004 5:17:17 PM
The rogue awaits the results of Sarigar's investigations, hoping the innkeeper will open the door for him and the Chief.
To Thomas he says, "I hope to cause you as little trouble as possible. As I say, this perhaps suits all parties best. We pursue this Drow business and get out of your hair."
To his companions he says, "I know you are determined to assist Benny, Feng. Are the rest of you happy that these Drow are both a valid target and our best current lead in our hunt for our thief?"
Tratain Sunday September 5th, 2004 10:25:34 PM
Tratain says "Feng, wait upon leaving with Benny until we have finished our quest here. I would like to help him also, but right now, dozens of lives could hang in the balance. If we don't retrieve the item it is possible that hundreds could be killed or injured because of what happen with it falling into the wrong hands. There are several other things to consider as well, I think it would be criminal to bring Benny to the Scab. Do you think he could survive if hit by a Giants club or rock thrown at him? What if we run into a Dragon or other powerful creature, we wouldn't be able to protect him, would you bring him there to die? And on top of that we all gave our word we would be at the festival to Gargul several days from now, that is not something you can decide not to do or Setanos will fall over dead. If you give me a day or so I can memorize a spell and ask Domi if the girl still lives. I can ask several yes or no questions. If she is alive we can go find her after we complete our mission, but If i learn she does not still live then there will be no need to travel to the Scab, and Benny will know once and for all what has happened."
Where to now, Hamleters? - DM Marcin Monday September 6th, 2004 3:44:02 AM
Sarigar, excited, runs off in search of the door to the room previously occupied by the drow. Soon he can be heard pounding against the oaken planks. Folko quickly runs off to fetch the key and actually manages to unlock it before he has to send off for a carpenter.
Thimble and those of the party who wish to accompany him enter the room. "You didn't answer my question" - states the Chief of the Watch. "Why do you suspect they were drow? My men put them down as elves, and they know how to tell the difference. We don't get many drow in the Valley anyway, and I can't recall even a single instance of one ever trying to enter Angel Springs."
Black Paws circles the room with his nose low to the floor. Most scents are gone - it's been two days - but the big wolf stops at the mattresses for a long time. Here, the scents are still lingering. Three distinct if faint odors fill the nostrils of Black Paws. They definitely belong to drow, but they do not match the scents of any of the dark elf individuals met by the wild man so far.
There are tracks left on the floor - muddy prints of riding boots, an imprint of a bare foot, fingertips brushed against dusty window frame. One set of tracks belongs to Renik, and one to some halfling maid. Sarigar studies the other three.
Thimble goes over the room himself, but does not offer any comments. Then he just stands at the door, drumming his fingers on the wall.
Tratain offers some arguments for postponing the journey with Benny.
It is the afternoon of the second day of the Hamleters' stay in Angel Springs. Some clues have been discovered, but no clear image of what has transpired here has formed so far. Still, the hourglass is trickling, and it becomes more and more obvious that some kind of action needs to be taken soon.
Draax Monday September 6th, 2004 6:48:00 AM
Draax agrees with Renik, "The drow or the elves that we believe to be drow are our only targets at the moment. We should try to get to them before the trail disappears."
Knowing how much Sarigar hates drow, Draax is confident that the little man and his wolf will find the trail if it still exist.
Renik d20+9=20 d20+8=19 Monday September 6th, 2004 6:41:52 PM
Renik too searches the room (Search 20), as if he had never seen it before.
"We've had recent contact with Drow, Chief. And from what people said about them, particularly that they ignored an attempt to communicate from the elves of the encampment beyond your walls, our suspicions were aroused. Other, similar incongruities fueled our suspicions, and Sarigar and Black Paws here have confirmed the worst. They were indeed drow, masquerading as elves. If I'm not mistaken that is facepaint there on the bed. A careful disguise applied to meet a thief in an inn. This enterprise was not without risk for them. They must have greatly valued whatever prize they saught. I wonder what it was.
"Well, our best chance of finding out is to get after them at once."
Roger Tuesday September 7th, 2004 12:58:58 AM
Letting Renik do all the tap dancing, Roger lends his eyes to the open room, now that the way is not barred.
Roger briefly tunes Renik out as he wonders what Bill might say or do. Shaking his head so he can stay focused to what he's doing, he returns to the job at hand.
Feng Tuesday September 7th, 2004 1:02:07 AM
The half orc sighs deeply, his chest swelling before he exhaled. "I agree with you Tratain, but as I said before, the decision is not mine. The decision is Benny's, and if you think he doesn't know the danger out there, you are mistaken. Please argue your points with him when he returns."
Discussing plans - DM Marcin Tuesday September 7th, 2004 3:47:03 AM
The halfling guard kneels by the mattresses and whistles. "You have a keen eye, mister," he says with a hint of respect in his voice that was not there a moment ago.
Just then another guard appears in the door. "Chief, you are needed at the Market."
"Well, I got to go. You just behave and we might be able to somehow get along. Well, what is it now?..." The two watchmen depart.
The party is left to its own devices. So far no new course of action has been agreed on. Some suggest going after the drow at once, but others are either silent or want to finish up business in town first.
*** MEANWHILE, SOMEWHERE ELSE ***
He watched them, their impassive faces and half closed eyes. Their guise was hard to see through, but he knew that under these relaxed, smiling masks cogwheels of cunning and dangerous minds were turning at full speed.
He captured each and every one of them, made them all players in his game without rules. The feeling was filling him with both ecstasy and dread. It was playing with fire - nay, with thunder itself! But he has never felt so much alive before.
"Tread softly and think ahead, and you just might achieve your goal," he reminded himself. He still couldn't see a straight path leading to this goal, but by gods, he was looking for it, and looking hard.
Setanos Tuesday September 7th, 2004 7:34:34 AM
Setanos watches the swirl of activity around him, feeling as if this quest is quickly spinning out of control as all attempts at subterfuge are abandoned.
Stoically, he follows the group upstairs, ready to move when called, but clearly not liking the direction things have turned.
Renik Tuesday September 7th, 2004 3:33:45 PM
"So, are we agreed or not? If anyone has an alternate plan of action state it now. If not we follow the drow."
If there are no further objections Renik will gather his gear and head for the gate.
Feng Tuesday September 7th, 2004 7:17:29 PM
Feng leaves word with the inkeeper that he will return should Benny inquire about him. The half-orc gathers his gear and summons forth his companion, the mighty war horse. He rides to the gate to accompany Renik and the others. He could not let his friends go off without him when Benny is knowhere to be found.
Draax Tuesday September 7th, 2004 9:02:36 PM
Draax grabs his gear and heads towards the gate with the others. He is surprised how anxious his is to face the drow again. He just realized that he had a bad taste in his mouth ever since they made the deal with the drow they released.
Roger Tuesday September 7th, 2004 10:53:54 PM
Roger nods his head in agreement with Renik, for lack of any other course of action. As soon as directed, Roger will return to the party's room and pack up his gear. (long day really tired, sorry)
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