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The Halfling (DM JohnP) 
Saturday July 30th, 2005 10:33:10 PM
The halfling rises from the bench and stretches his arms. It's going to be crowded in here soon and it's time to get ready.

The Halfling Messenger (DM JohnP) 
Monday August 1st, 2005 9:00:05 PM
The halfling continues in his puttering about even though he's not an employee of the Giggling Ghost. While the crowds have mostly left since the bard Ursis finished his presentation. Slowly, the table in the upper balcony of the Ghost begins to be readied for the adventurers that the halfling has been told to expect.

He stands back, briefly, looking at the table he has prepared. Thoughtfully, he has found appropriate furniture for each of the guests. And he has placed name cards before each spot. Since it appeals to his orderly mind, the halfling has arranged the namecards in alphabetical sequence.

The first reads Appolo, Rogue, Pirate of Jack and is set before a a standard inn seat, albeit a slightly scruffy and wobbly one adorned with a carving of a sailing ship.

The second reads Ashalan, Monk and Sorcerer and is placed before a plainly finished but soot-stained chair.

The third reads Garrett Jax, Cleric and Protector of Domi. Instead of a chair, this card is placed before a stool covered in the furs of some kind of cold-weather animal.

The fourth reads Nauthiz'Ull, Ranger, Grim and Undead Hunter. It is placed close beside a stool that is almost the twin of the previous one.

The fifth card reads Syrdeth, Monk and is placed before a chair twined with jungle vines. It looks like the staff here at the Ghost have furnished extra attention to this seat.

The sixth card reads Toros, Fighter, Monk, Cleric, Mendicant and Shadowdancer. Unlike all the previous places, this card is placed before a large cushion.

The seventh card reads Uriel, Paladin and is placed before a plainly finished, sturdy chair.

The eighth and final card reads Xenia, Rogue, Fighter and Shadowdancer. Like the card for Syrdeth, this is placed before a chair twined with jungle vines. This seat also seems to have been carefully selected by the staff.

After making all of these preparations, the halfling sits in the place prepared for him and waits for people to arrive. He has a story to relate to them before they can begin their quest.



Xenia 
Monday August 1st, 2005 9:29:20 PM
Xenia makes a circuit of the table before seating herself. Before each empty place, she lifts the card. Her lips move ever so slightly as the rogue sounds the name out. At some a curl comes to the corner of her lips, the shadow of a smile. At other names, her head tips to the side, a question.

Finally, setting lightly at the spot marked for her, she waits for the halfling to begin.

Garrett 
Monday August 1st, 2005 9:36:54 PM
Garrett enters behind Xenia.

"Thank you my dear, I was having a bit of trouble finding the spot. Perhaps I will be laying off the Mead this evening. My but they do have good drinks at the ghost."

Garrett bows cordially to Xenia and then takes his place at the table, after introducing himself to the halfling already waiting.

"It appears we are early. May I buy you a drink Xenia? The night is still quite young, and I imagine there will be little relaxing soon enough."

Nauthiz'Ull [drew.icevein] 
Monday August 1st, 2005 11:28:17 PM
Striding up the stairs Nauth stops for a moment and watches as the woman seems a bit confused at the pronunciation of his name.

"Well wunjo it seems that they know much of our lands. These are the nicest chairs that I have rested my rear in."

With eagle like eyes Nauth's vision skips across the surroundings and he sets them upon the secretive woman that is there as well.

"Xenia is it? Well, your skills shall prove vital, I am sure. You should rely on my wunjo here if you become battered or beaten. His harnessing of Domi's powers is quite impressive indeed."

Uriel 
Monday August 1st, 2005 11:32:16 PM
Uriel enters the room and looks at the surroundings. He eyes the chairs and nods to both Xenia and Gareth.

Uriel is a tall man in his late twenties or early thirties. He stands several inches over six feet and has the physique of a man used to considerable exercise. He is attired in leather with tabard displaying Domi's symbol.

He carries a sturdy quarterstaff in his hand and has two swords, a bow and possibly other weapons not currently visible. While his appearance is martial, he radiates a sense of calm and warmth to those he passes.

With a frown creasing his brow, he speaks to those present, "These Fae have much to answer for. I, for one would dearly love to be one of the ones asking the questions."

He will get an ale and sit in the plainly attired chair set with his placard.

Syrdeth (Scott: Floating City) 
Tuesday August 2nd, 2005 4:29:15 AM
A tiny muscular elf enters the room and barely glances around, his eyes focused on the table. Moving fast and sure he circles the table.

He murmurs the names to himself as he reads each card. Now, he looks at the others, focused on pairing the names with faces in the room. Coming across Xenia's he smiles fondly and wishes his seat was a bit closer to someone that he knows. Finally, he sees Uriel's place card. Looking up at the tall man, "It looks like only you and I know what we really are? Everyone else is a bit indecisive."

Syr moves quickly to the seat next to his and tries out the pillow before moving over to his designated chair and patiently waiting on the halfling that called them together.

Ashalan (Randall:Cinnamon Valley) 
Tuesday August 2nd, 2005 3:29:08 PM
A half-elf with striking silver hair enters the room wearing a grin of anxious expectation. His blue eyes hold much warmth as they survey his fellows.

His garb is simple, and his belonging light. But perhaps most odd of all is that he appears to carry no weapon at all.

Making a slow circuit of the table, Ashalan makes the quiet acquaintance of those present, before finding his appointed seat and settling down with an air of patience.

Appolo{Chris Swords of Redemption} 
Tuesday August 2nd, 2005 3:31:13 PM
Appolo quietly with smile at Xenia and the others finds and takes his seat.He looks around appraising his new companions.

The Halfling Continues 
Wednesday August 3rd, 2005 7:42:50 AM
The halfling looks across the table at the assembled heroes. He takes a moment to look at each one, as if appraising their fitness for the upcoming task. Anyone who looks closely has the impression that at the halfling's eyes possess more depth and understanding than mortally possible.

After the examination, the halfling sounds a small bell. After a momeent, several of the serving staff of the Giggling Ghost appear and take orders for food and drink. "Please take a moment to refresh yourselves," states the halfling. "We will begin after the food arrives, but do not eat or drink too heavily."

Shortly therafter, over a steaming krater of mulled cider, the halfling clears his throat and speaks.

"All of you are not yet here but there is no time to waste. There is some urgency to the matter and there are others competing for the same prize. Ursis, before he left, requested that I relay a message to the group that decided to pursue his quest. And that I show that group on their way. I realize that this is moving quickly but there will be time for questions later. Ursis is too frail to pursue this himself so he has recruited all of you. While he was tracing the rumours of The Fae King Eberyon he received a message from an old acquaintance. You will have to follow this lead in his stead."

"The message is this:

Go to the Temple of Gargul in Plateau City during the noon hour when the marketplace near there is at it's fullest as the people of the city feed their hungry bellies. Enter by the front door as if going in for noon prayers. Wear black hoods and carry the new prayerbook available in the market. Inside open it to Chapter 6 and wait to be recognized.

"Now to get to Plateau City on time."

The halfling stands and removes a handkerchief tucked into the belt of his robe. He unfolds it one, twice, three times and you realize that the cloth is much larger than a handkerchief. He continues to unfold the shimmery cloth many more times until it is draped over his lap and pools unto the floor.

"Two of you tall ones, can you help with this?"

After some help, the cloth is suspended from some pegs on the wall that have been used many, many times before.

"To reach Plateau City, simply step into the cloth. I'm sure that most of you have used something like this before."

The halfling pauses for a moment, lost in thought. "Time is of the essence, but if you have any questions ask them now before you leave. I have time for one question from each of you. And do not fear, even if you step through the tapestry, the magic allows my voice to carry a short distance to the other side."

With that, the halfling returns to his seat and takes up the krater of wine.

Xenia  d20+22=28 d20+20=34 d20+13=23
Wednesday August 3rd, 2005 10:02:18 AM
Xenia smiles and does a little hand wave thing as each of the guys from downstairs comes up and takes a seat on the really different and interesting chairs. Looks like she's the only girl here. (Now why is it always like that?)

Time comes to order up, and the dark rogue chirps in for some waffles with strawberries and cream. And kaffe. A mug of hot kaffe.

"Um," the dark girl wipes a last bit of white cream from the corner of her mouth and raises a gloved hand, "so, we're, like, racing for a prize against guys we don't know about? And that's the reason for all this 'Time is of the Urgency' stuff, right?"

"So what does this racing for prizes have to do with the Fae King? You know, I mean, like, why does the Ursis guy think this is a lead?"

The dark rogue downs the last burnt roasty bit of the kaffe and then stands.

"Well, why don't I go through first and see what's there." With a stride, Xenia steps into the halfling's shadow, darkens and becomes one with it. With a second stride, she steps into the cloth, eyes and ears open for danger.

Rolls and Actions
Hide 28 (Hide in Plain Sight)
Spot 34
Listen 23


Appolo 
Wednesday August 3rd, 2005 12:30:57 PM
Just before Xwnia gets up and leaves Appolo answers one of her questions"Well the race is between us and the other teams,the first team to put the Fey Kings head on a pike wins.Remeber the others back ing the Ghost that's who we're racing against."
Then he watches her leave and stands himself gathering up the note"I have only one question.How do kill this Fey King once we find him?"He waits a few minutes for a reply then steps through the portal himself.Once there he will wait for the others then lead the way to the Market,get the Book of Gargul and head for the Temple.Saying to the others been here before.Gargul and I have a sort of deal.I keep him real busy."

Ashalan 
Wednesday August 3rd, 2005 12:55:57 PM
Slurping down the last of his spicy rabbit stew, Ash wipes his chin as he contemplates what the halfing has said.

"Just one question huh? I've often been told I ask too many questions, curiousity killed the cat and all that, ya know."

Running a long fingered hand through his hair, his face scrunched in thought, Ash is obviously having trouble deciding what to ask.

After several long minutes deep in thought, a light goes off.

"Is every group recieving the same information as we are?"

Trusting that the halflings words were true and that his response would make it to him, Ash steps through the tapestry into the unknown.

Nauthiz'Ull [drew.icevein] 
Wednesday August 3rd, 2005 1:42:21 PM
The ebony faced man scratches his scruff vigorously inthought. His ice-blue eyes almost seem to float with curiosity.

"Hmmm, let me see little one. What does the Temple of Gargul have to do with this? I thought that the gods wanted nothing to do with Ebryon."

With whatever response the hafling gives, Nauth nods and strides through the hole, keeping his senses as alert as possible through the portal.

Garrett 
Wednesday August 3rd, 2005 3:43:33 PM
Garrett finishes his meal and follows the others through the cloth. He says nothing and asks no questions, merely listening attentively as all the others speak their thoughts.

Toros (Sub/Al) 
Wednesday August 3rd, 2005 9:02:52 PM
The taur also rises to follow the others. Before he enters the magic cloth he whispers his question.

"Will they have a robe for me in my size?"

Uriel 
Wednesday August 3rd, 2005 10:17:14 PM
"What sort of duplicity will be expected of us in this temple?" the paladin asks as he partakes of the food and drink.

After listening to his host's response he will move to cloth and move through with his quarterstaff in hand.

Syr  d20+15=35
Thursday August 4th, 2005 12:17:50 AM
Syr follows Uriel but frowns at his question of duplicity. Uncomfortable with subterfuge he listens to the others with patience and then shakes his head at the questions posed.

Trying to think of the most useful information he asks, "This is a race... What's the fastest way to find the king? (Diplomacy crit 35)" Satisfied with his direct approach he smiles and steps through.

The Halfling - Through the Tapestry 
Thursday August 4th, 2005 8:01:58 AM
The halfling watches as the heroes finish their repast and prepare for departing through the tapestry. One by one, the heroes depart through the tapestry.

Before they depart, the halfling responds to Xenia's question. "Appolo had it right. The Powers of the Wold have decreed that this be a contest of sorts, setting several teams to accomplish the mission. I do not know how exactly, but the magic of the tapestries allows each group to work alone without affecting the others. And there will be rewards to all, depending on how they do."

=============================

Singly in the order that they entered, the group arrives at the other side. Stretching in front of you is a square bordered by shops with statues and fountains in the centre. The skyline is dominated by a high tower that sretches upwards into the sky. There are several other large building visible, but the heroes eyes are drawn to the grandeur of that tower.

From the light and length of shadows, it appears to be morning, perhaps an hour after sunrise. Across the square, you can see a small group of people clustered in front of a building serving food and steaming beverages.

A closer look at the square shows the signs familiar to some of you from the past weeks. There are traces of mud and silt soiling the cobblestones of the square and lower parts of all the buildings. Tendrils of weeds and grass still cling to the street and other bits of flotsam are still lodged in corners. The buildings have suffered too, with loosened mortar in the walls and wooden fixtures weathered and warped by unendng rainfall or flood.

Above the group hangs a signboard bearing a bright red dragon or wyrm. From inside the building comes the sounds and smells of a morning meal being prepared.

Uriel looks around and recognizes the location. He announces to the group, "We're in Adventurer's Square. And if I'm not mistaken, this is the Red Wyrm Inn."

As the party stands there, they realize that the tapestry is not visible. Still, the magic of it lingers and the halfling's voice answers your questions.

To Xenia, the wind seems to carry the voice of the halfling. Highlight to display spoiler: {One question only, dear. And the other groups are not the only contestants in this race.}

To Appolo, the halfling's voice seems to whisper from the air beside him. Highlight to display spoiler: {Why, I suppose that you'd kill the Fey King the same way that you'd kill any other immortal fey Power. Cold iron, magic, and many swords. There is no specific weakness of the King beyond those of his kind.}

Ashalan hears the halfling's response in the creak of the sign overhead. Highlight to display spoiler: {Yes, if they think to ask.}

The halfling's response comes to Nauthiz'Ull in words fleetingly written by shadows on the wall of the inn. Highlight to display spoiler: {The Temple of Gargul is merely a place to meet, today.}

Toros hears a laugh carry the halfling's words to him. Highlight to display spoiler: {Adventurer's Square has everything an Adventurer would ever want, for the right price. Even a robe for a liontaur.}

Uriel does not hear the halfling's words. Instead, he knows the halfling's intent in the same way that he knows good and evil in the Wold. Highlight to display spoiler: {No duplicity at all in the temple. Be true to yourself and others. Follow the instructions from Ursis.}

A cricket's chirp conveys the halfling's words to Syrdeth. Highlight to display spoiler: {Follow the instructions from Ursis and be truthful in all things.}

============================

Back on the balcony, the halfling watches Syrdeth enter the tapestry. Then he grasps the bottom and shakes it loose from the pegs. The magic of the tapestry is spent and is now nothing more than a very finely woven silk tapestry. A fitting gift to the Temple, the halfling thinks.

He returns to his seat and finishes his light meal, knowing that his work here in the Giggling Ghost is not completed.


Xenia 
Thursday August 4th, 2005 10:49:58 AM
Huh? What?

The square. The food. The folks just going about their stuff.

Xenia drops from the shadows at the prosaic non-threatening setting.

"But that's stupid!" She shakes her fist and shouts into the air. Oops ...

"That's stupid," she continues in a lower voice. "That's dumb, isn't it 'Ppolo? A race! We should be workin' together. This thing is out there spreading misery and messing things up all over the place. Framble mackin horse hummies. Sometimes you gotta wonder what the powers are thinking, huh? You just gotta wonder."

Then, with a sigh, her arms drop and her palms slap against her outer thighs. "Oh well. Maybe they think it'll make us work faster."

"We're here. Might as well get on with it, huh?"

She turns to the Uriel guy who looks like he knows his way around this place.

"So, um, you know where we go to get this new prayer book thing? And something with a black hood. A cape maybe. Yeah, a cape."

"Hey, I wonder if we all need one of these prayer books," says the ever thrifty rogue, "or if we can get one for all of us?"

Garrett 
Thursday August 4th, 2005 11:56:33 AM
"Better safe than sorry. If time is of the essence then we best each get a prayer book."

Garrett turns to Uriel. "This appears to be your neck of the woods, Lead on to cloaks, hoods, and prayer books."

Other groups may already be here looking for the same things, so we should try and keep moving as quickly as we can. Wouldn't do for the store to run out right before we arrive."

Ashalan 
Thursday August 4th, 2005 1:49:27 PM
Clearly having enjoyed his magical journey, Ash is turning in place surveying the scene around him.

Pausing to listen to the wind he smacks his palm against his forehead in disgust and shakes his head ruefully.

Tricky halfling! Leave it to me to ask a yes or no question... ugh!

Quickly getting over his obtuseness Ash nods his head in agreement to Garrett, Ash is content to let Uriel lead the way.

Nauthiz'Ull [drew.icevein] 
Thursday August 4th, 2005 9:01:49 PM
As the group begins formulating hte obvious Nauth catches a glimpse of something ont he wall of the RedWyrm Inn.

Great! So was the damned Giggling Ghost!

Nauth casts his eyes about, flashing like an eagles over a fast running mountain stream.

Appolo 
Friday August 5th, 2005 4:42:14 AM
Appolo recieves his and curses."What aload."he looks at Xenia"Well the God have a sick twisted sense of humour.Well you know what I say.Gods start wars Mortal heroes win wars and everyone else just get in the way.Gods aplentiful ,but not goos for muuch.'

He then turns to the rest of the group "Well let's get our bibles and head for Gargul's place.Don't expect muich though.Just be ready for the ambush." he head over following the instruction and buys the pbible.Then Appolo heads for Gargul's Temple.

DM JohnP 
Friday August 5th, 2005 6:59:47 AM
Giving Uriel a bit more time to post.

Uriel 
Friday August 5th, 2005 7:56:46 AM
{Sorry about the delay - bad storm frazzled the internetwork...}

Uriel shakes his head at the thought of a race or competition with the fate of the world at hand. "As Domi wills," he mutters, with the sense he is trying to convince himself.

To the others he says, "This is adventurer's square. All manner of tools and equipment can be had here, I have never had need for this specific equipment but I am sure we can find it here."

He begins to look with Appolo for the prayer books and black robes.

Shopping In Adventurer's Square (DM JohnP) 
Friday August 5th, 2005 10:03:54 AM
By the look of the sun's shadows across the cobblestones, you estimate that you have probably five hours before your noon appointment at the Temple of Gargul. Lot's of time for shopping. But, as they say, the early bird catches the worm.

Heading into the square itself, the party can see several signposts that seem to advertise clothing and gear for adventurers. Not to mention many weaponsmiths, armorers, trinket vendors, jewelers, and small animal merchants. As Uriel said, all manner of things imaginable (and probably some things unimaginable) that adventurers could want.

The nearest clothing store bears a sign showing a sitting man sewing. However, the door of that store is still closed. A closer look shows an accumulation of mud and silt in front, as if the store hasn't been opened since the flooding.

Across the square there are some other clothing stores, some with people opening the shutters and sweeping the pavement. The other side of the square also has stores with signs showing books and writing implements.

To get there, the party will pass close by one of the storefront businesses serving food and drink. A small group of men and women are standing in front, eating their morning repast and conversing.


Xenia  d20+13=28 d20+3=21 d20+20=38
Friday August 5th, 2005 11:07:08 AM
The dark rogue gives Appolo a grim nod of agreement and follows after he and Uriel. Though she's just eaten, the smells of food stir the interest of her slim and highly food oriented nose.

"Hi," she says looking over one man's shoulder at what might be the local morning fare, "whacha eating?"

"I mean, not to interrupt your breakfast or anything, but, I mean, like, we're from out of town, you know. And, you know, I've found that every place has it's local cuisine. Kind of, you know, hidden culinary jewels scattered in the rough. And, you know, the only way to find out about stuff like that is to talk to the folks that eat it, right?"

"Hi, my name's Xenia. Looks like you folks had a little water here ... "

It's fun to chat. And friends are good. The dark rogue keeps her ears open as she gabs with the locals. One eye, of course, on her group so as to make sure they don't run off and leave her.

Rolls and Actions
Listen 28
Gather Information 21
Spot 38 (Just for, like, you know, interesting stuff.)

Ashalan 
Friday August 5th, 2005 5:48:25 PM
Eyes a wonder at the hustle and bustle around him, Ash sticks close to the others in the group.

Nearing Garret and Nauth Ash mutters,

"I don't know about you two, but I am certainly not used to this many people all in one place. Kinda makes me jumpy."

As if to support his comment, Ash leaps and spins about fists at the ready, soundly terrifying the poor merchant who was only trying to get his attention to show his wares.

His face a scarlet red from embarrassment, Ash tries to sooth the vendor with soft words and exclamations of great craftsmanship, as he examines what appears to be some sort of sundial set upon a leather band, that the merchant swears keeps perfect time and supposedly attches to the wrist.

From the look on Ash's face it seems he is not so sure how this works.

Garrett 
Friday August 5th, 2005 8:36:42 PM
"I hear ya Ashalan. Too many people in one place. I'm used to looking to every horizon and seeing only a handful of folks. Let's get this done with as best we can."

Garrett stops the nearest merchant. "Excuse me good sir, I am from out of town ,and was wondering where one might find prayerbooks? and perhaps also cloaks and hoods to ward off the burning rays of the sun?"


Toros 
Saturday August 6th, 2005 2:17:55 AM
Feeling a bit dizzy, as if tired from a long journey, Toros looks for what he will need for the following days. Fortunately, he does not experience any difficulty to find items that fit to his large size. He also forget to buy neither something to take notes on and with nor a couple of souvenirs. At a small corner, he finds small sea-shells in the shape of a heavy steel shield, on which one hammer and sword crossed over an anvil is pictured. Choosing the three most beatiful ones he gets one for Garrett, Uriel and himself, hoping that his new friends will like these shells that represent all the symbols of Domi. Bowing in fornot of them, Toros comments,

"My mighty Paladin and Protector! Please accept these symbolic gifts to bring courage and luck that we would need soon..."

OOC: Glad to be back and ready to post finally. Thank you for subbing Toros, Al.

Appolo  d20+10=14 d20+8=27
Saturday August 6th, 2005 9:11:10 PM
Appolo stays close to Xenia.When she stops to talk to the locals,he stops as well.Silently watching and listening,Finally he says "Come on let's go.We'll grab a bite eat later."

Spot 14 Listen 27

Uriel  d20+8=18
Sunday August 7th, 2005 10:53:15 PM
Uriel graciously accepts the symbol, bowing his head respectfully to the liontaur.

"Thank you friend. I hope I can find the means to repay your kindness!"

He will observe those people eating at the restaurant as the group moves past for anything out of the ordinary. Spot:18

Syr 
Monday August 8th, 2005 4:37:58 AM
Syr moves along with the group. Occasionally pausing to admire all the wares. He mutters to himself, "Where is Tionel when it's shopping time. Never thought I would miss the guy..."

He continues to manuver through the crowd with one hand on his belt to ward off thieves. He seems to be waiting for the rest of the group for further actions.

You Eat What ? (DM JohnP) 
Monday August 8th, 2005 7:24:26 AM
The party moves up to the sidewalk food business. Most people seem to be eating handheld food, pieces of dough wrapped around meat, vegetable or fruit and then baked or fried. There's also a small group standing downwind of the others eating what smells and looks like poorly cured fermented fish paste spread over noodles. Except that there's lumps of semi-transparent goo clinging to some of the noodles. Even Xenia doesn't approach closer for a better look.

Xenia strikes up a conversation with some of the locals. Mostly it's talk about how poor business has been since the flooding, or how some businesses lost most of their merchandise and probably won't reopen.

Xenia and Garrett do find out that hooded cloaks should be easily found at the clothing vendors in the square. They suggest going to "Ezekial's Outdoor Clothing" since the store has been open since the flooding. Of course, if you're short for cash, there are some second-hand stores closer to the Temple of Gargul.

Inquiries about prayerbooks are met with the response that the local temples allow any vendor to sell them. Usually, however, only vendors close to the temples will stock them. Xenia's new-found friend suggests looking in Temple Square just outside the Temple of Gargul.

=================

After Toros makes his purchase and small gift, and anyone buys some snack food, the party heads across the square to "Ezekial's Outdoor Clothing". A boy is sweeping the area in front of the business and an older woman can be seen inside, straightening piles of clothing. Sure enough, looking through the open double doors shows a good selection of hooded cloaks and just about any outdoor clothing imaginable, from double fur lined parkas to lightweight desert clothing.

Xenia  d20+4=24 d20+1=20
Monday August 8th, 2005 10:16:24 AM
Clothes! Clothes! ClothesClothesClothes! hehe!

Xenia breezes down the aisles from parkas to ponchos, thinking maybe she might even be able to find something to put together a pirate outfit. And while she goes, the dark girl always looks at ... the prices.

"Good stuff," Xenia beams at the woman. "I mean, like, wow. You really have somewhere around here where folks can use this cold weather gear?" She tries on a rakish desert hat. "How's this look? Hehe. I love your store. I'll have to come back through here when we have time. But, um, right now we're looking for some dark hooded cloaks. We need 'em for eight. One big enough for a liontaur."

"If you please." Xenia smiles.

"Oh, yeah. And by the by," she asks in an over-casual voice, "anybody else been in here asking for cloaks?"

"Oh. And, um, couldja give us directions to the Temple of Gargul, please?"

Rolls and Actions
Appraise 24 (Nat 20!) /Now watch me suck in combat.
CHA 20

Nauthiz'Ull [drew.icevein] 
Monday August 8th, 2005 11:10:16 AM
The ranger follows the group around like a puppy dog, eyes as large as ice ants, as he tries to take in the scope of his new surroundings.

"Wunjo, this is not natural!"

Ashalan 
Monday August 8th, 2005 2:23:15 PM
Following the others through the muddy streets, Ash tries not to be overcome by the barrage to his senses.

So much noise! How can they hear themsleves think?

Heading into Ezekiel's with the rest of the group, Ash does his shopping quite efficiently, somberly doling out the coins neceessary for the thick hooded cloak.

Garret 
Monday August 8th, 2005 2:40:50 PM
Putting his hand on his wunjo's shoulder, Garret hopes the familiar touch will help calm him, though to be honest, he to is just as jumpy and uncomfortable. It is a strange thought indeed that crosses his mind next. Wish I were home

Garret stays near the group, to be seperated in such a crowd, <shudder> the thought is put down, it would only make things worse.

At Ezekial's, Garret grabs the first cloak that might fit him and pays for it.

Toros  d20=8
Monday August 8th, 2005 7:27:59 PM
Toros looks around to find the best quality goods to the most reasonable price with his untrained eye, trusting serendipity embedded in the circumstances. 8 cloaks for 8 heroes, rolling an 8 for an appraise check in the 8th day of the 8 month. Would it be appreciated in the Wardd`s Eye or the 8-th day DM post of their adventure, the Mendicant cannot help but wonder...

Appolo  d20+8=13 d20+7=24
Monday August 8th, 2005 8:42:29 PM
Appolo remains silent as let's Xenia do the talking.He enters the store purchaes his cloak and heads outisde for alook around.

Spot 13,Listen 24

Uriel 
Monday August 8th, 2005 10:16:06 PM
Uriel stands by Xenia as inquires about the supplies, ready to chime in if needed. He also pulls his pouch to help pay.

Newly Dressed in a Fine Black Cloak .... (DM JohnP) 
Tuesday August 9th, 2005 7:30:14 AM
Xenia bargains with the proprietor of Ezekial's Outdoor Clothing for the purchase of 8 cloaks, including one large enough to fit Toros.

While this is going on, Toros feels the little rush of pleasure that tells him Wardd is pleased with his endeavours.

"Hmm, eight black cloaks. We stock a lot of black cloaks, seems to be very popular with adventuring groups for some reason," the woman says. After looking the party up and down, and noting Uriel's ready purse, she summons the boy and sends him off to a ladder. He quickly returns, his arms burdened with a pile of cloaks. The woman takes one and shakes it out over the counter to show the party. "Well, I like to start the day off right. That'll be 5 silver each, a gold for the large one. It's a good thing that you came in before it started getting busy here in the square."

As Uriel and the others pay, the woman replies to Xenia's question about directions to the Temple of Gargul.

"Going to pray for a dear departed companion, I guess. Well, from here you head north to just past Red Dragon Castle, you should see it no problem once you step outside. Turn right at the Adventurer's Repose, then head down Red Dragon Road. The group of you should be okay, this time of day, at least. Just stay on that street and you should see it soon enough right in front of you. The main entrance fronts on Temple Square, bordering the river."

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Your business concluded here, the party re-enters the square. If Garrett and Nauthiz'Ull thought that it was crowded before, it's worse now. A person can't go more than 10 or 20 paces without having to sidestep another shopper.

Following the directions of the shopkeeper, the party finds it's way to The Adventurer's Repose. Looking down the street, it looks decent enough. The nearby signposts advertise other taverns, gaming houses and other, less reputable, places of entertainment. Hardly anyone is on the street, however.

Xenia  d20+20=23 d20+13=19
Tuesday August 9th, 2005 10:14:28 AM
Yeah. Dear departed. Sump'in like that.

Or so the thought goes as Xenia looks right, up Red Dragon Road. Empty. Almost spooky next to the crowd of folks shopping that they had just come through.

Yeah. Ok. The tavern crowd is mostly a night thing. Still ...

"The group of you should be okay, this time of day, at least ... "

"You know, I'm thinking this is supposed to be a rough neighborhood, guys," the dark rogue says. "Can't let that kinda thing stand in your way, though."

She pulls the hood of her new black cloak up over the bandana that wraps her red hair. Secretly, she smiles at the enigmatic figure that she imagines that she cuts. With a subtle movement of her shoulders, she makes the cape swirl and billow a bit. hehe.

"Temple Square, huh? Hokay. Lets go."

With a jaunty stride, the dark rogue heads up the street.

Rolls and Actions
Spot 23
Listen 19


Appolo 
Tuesday August 9th, 2005 11:14:33 AM
Appolo puts his cloak.Smiles and nods at the storekeeper.He then makes his way to Gurguls Temple.

When Xenia mentions that they are entering a rough neighborhood,he says"That's ok I a rather rough kind of guy.Besides I've been here a couple of times.Don't worry it's no more dangerous then anywhere else I've ever been."he says with a smile as makes striaght for the temple.

Toros 
Tuesday August 9th, 2005 2:51:03 PM
Toros gets his cloak and finds a mirror to see how he looks like. Not bad, actually I like it He looks at others then and complements Xenia how she looks pretty with her new cloak. Having chat with the stopkeeper, he is a bit late to leave the shop but still able to keep up with others.

Garret  d20+9=25 d20+8=22
Tuesday August 9th, 2005 5:03:39 PM
Garret pulls the cloak about him out of habit to ward off imagined cold and also to help put at least a mentally percieved barrier between himself and the throng of people. Unseen dangers of a city are completely foreign to the Icelander, civilization is the only remotely safe areas in his world.

Keeping alert for possible dangers and staying close to Nauthiz'Ull and Toros, Garret follows Xenia and Appolo.

Spot 25
Listen 22

Syr  d20+12=20 d20+6=21
Tuesday August 9th, 2005 6:21:27 PM
Syrdeth shrugs on the cloak and immediately is uncomfortable. He shoulders fidget beneath the thick material. Not quite staying with the group he trails behind slightly but is still able to keep up (Reflex 20). In the rear he tries to keep an on on anything suspicious coming at the rest of the party (spot 21).

Nauthiz'Ull [drew.icevein] 
Tuesday August 9th, 2005 11:07:33 PM
Nauth grabs his cloak and throws it on.

"Not bad but not wolf. This wouldn't last a night in our lands."

The ranger goes about in wondernment as he walks down the street.

"We are supposed to fear people?"

The Maddening Crowd (DM JohnP) 
Wednesday August 10th, 2005 8:14:24 AM
Toros is pressing his luck, almost getting caught up in conversation with the storekeeper and being left behind.

The group passes down Red Dragon Road, looking at the sights. Close to Adventurer's Square, the street is clean and neat. To the south,Red Dragon Castle looms over the street behind its neatly kept grounds and wall. The party doesn't go very far, however, before they reach a street heading to the north. Looking up it, Garrett and Xenia can see some small groups of people lounging on building steps and at the mouths of alleys. But that's not where the party has to go. Trailing behind the party, Syr doesn't notice anyone paying attention to them. Maybe it was Appolo's intimidating presence.

Nauthiz'Ull's attention is on the tall buildings that loom over the group. Taller than any structure built in the Ice Vein.

Ashalan and Uriel are quiet, simply trailing along with the rest of the group.

Not much further along, Red Dragon Road turns to the east away from the Castle. Looking ahead, the three spires of the Temple of Gargul loom over the nearby buildings. Continuing along, the party reaches the broad boulevard that circles the Temple. The main entrance of the temple is across the boulevard while the main part of the square is on the opposite side of the temple. Booths and stalls circle the entire temple, however, even over to this side. Standing at the side of the road where the road meets the boulevard are three uniformed guardsmen, leaning on their halberds with their visors pushed back. The guards' attention is on the crowd, scanning for anything out of the ordinary.

Uriel, or anyone else with knowledge of Plateau City, recognizes the uniform of the City Guard.

If some members of the party thought that Adventurers' Square was busy, this square is teeming with people buying and selling food, tools, services and other items. There's a hubbub of voices advertising wares, bargaining and trying to shout over one another. Listening, the party can hear vendors shouting out:

"Spices! Get your hot, tasty, pleasing spices here!"

"He-yah, he-yah! Donations for the homeless! Help your fellows who've lost all in the flooding!"

"Fresh fish! Fresh from the river!"

"Fortunes told! Learn your future! Will you love, will you leave? Learn it here!"

"Ha-ha-ha! Books, all kinds. Newest and bestest! Oldies, goldies and moldies! Hu-huck-uck! From the funniest vendor in the Square!"

"Knives sharpened! Get your knives sharpened!"

"Dried fruit, raisins, currants! Prepared for the trail or kitchen! Get them here!"

"Symbols! Charms! Talismans! We'll make them to suit!"

"Alms! Alms for the poor!"


Listen DC 15 to determine direction and distance to the vendor that you choose. If you want to find something else, it will take a bit longer to find a vendor. The crowd will require the party to bunch up or risk getting separated.


Spells, etc. (DM JohnP) 
Wednesday August 10th, 2005 8:20:05 AM
I should have asked before this, but could the characters who need to prepare spells post what they have selected for this day?

FYI, it's a multi-day adventure and you will have time to prepare and renew your spells.

Xenia  d20+13=20 d20+20=39
Wednesday August 10th, 2005 10:03:22 AM
"Books!" Xenia calls over the noise of the crowd. "I hear someone sellin' books!"

"This way!" the dark rogue follows the direction of the laughing voice announcing the sale of books. Through the magic lenses perched on her slender nose, she sweeps the crowd for sign of the vendor.

One, two, three, four, five, six, seven. With each sweep of the crowd, she counts her own party, keeping tabs lest they get separated.

Rolls and Actions
Listen 20
Spot 39 (For both the bookseller, and to keep an eye on the rest of the party.)

Qustion
Do we have line of effect in this crowd for a Message spell? That is, were someone in the group to *have* a Message spell. (Hint hint.)

DM JohnP - Sure, if someone who happened to have a Message spell cast it before entering, or while you were still together.

Ashalan 
Wednesday August 10th, 2005 12:11:33 PM
Ashalan sticks close to Xenia, as she apppears to be quite comfortable in these confines.

From time to time Ash reaches into the folds of his garment to fondly pet something furry stowed away there.

Garret 
Wednesday August 10th, 2005 3:52:04 PM
more post later...
Spell List
0-6 Create Water, Detect Magic, Detect Poison, Purify Food and Drink, Read Magic, Resistance
1-6+1 Bless, Bless Water, Divine Favor, Doom, Endure Elements, Shield of Faith (Enlarge Weapon)
2-5+1 Align Weapon, Bear's Endurance, Remove Paralysis, Spiritual Weapon, Status (Spiritual Weapon)
3-4+1 Curse, Dispel Magic, Prayer, Searing Light (Magic Vestment)
4-3+1 Airwalk, Divine Power, Restoration (Divine Power)
5-2+1 Greater Command, Righteous Might (Flame Strike)

Toros 
Wednesday August 10th, 2005 8:37:54 PM
"Xenia! Wait! Please!!" With a smile on his face Toros takes a scroll from his haversack and casts a Message spell on Xenia in case they separate inside this maddening crowd, and start following her. He also regularly looks around to see where the others are. Meanwhile, Liontaur's large body sometimes make it easier and other times harder to stay with his friends.

Garret 
Wednesday August 10th, 2005 10:15:50 PM
He seems almost a bit put out by the crowd and noise, then looking towards Nauthiz'Ull, "Well one of the reasons we adventure is to take in new and different places and this surely qualifies. I think we should keep close to that one." Pointing to Xenia. "She sems in her own here. Garret makes sure to keep her as close to himself as he can.

Syr 
Thursday August 11th, 2005 3:23:57 AM
Reluctantly, Syr nods at Garret, "She's definitely a city girl." The elf follows calmly along as he manuevers through the crowd.

The Bookseller (DM JohnP) 
Thursday August 11th, 2005 8:09:47 AM
"Ha, ha, ha! Look! Books!"

The party forges their way through the crowd following Xenia. She whispers back and forth with Toros, keeping the liontaur advised of where she is headed. All of the party can hear the braying voice of the bookseller ahead of them. Ashalan stick close to the dark rogue while Garrett and Syr trade some conversation.

Nauthiz'Ull is speechless in the throng of people, while it is commonplace to both Uriel and Appolo. As the party moves through the marketplace they see a pair of men walking through the crowd, watching other people instead of merchandise in the stalls. The men aren't wearing an obvious uniform but Uriel identifies them as constables, members of the guard who investigate and patrol places such as this.

Don't ya know? Let me show, books to you! Big ones, little ones ... you'd know about that, wouldn't you, Marisel?"

A woman's voice replies, "Don't say any more, Teufel! Or I'll tell how little your book is!" A chorus of laughter follows that remark.

"Good one, Marisel! That's why we all love you."

The bookseller must know how to work a crowd since his voice carried almost the entire way across the boulevard. The party squeezes past some people clustered in front of a vendor selling spices and comes into a opening in the stalls. A human male is standing in front of a small stall covered with an awning protecting bundles of books. The man is shorter than average but has a round kettle belly that he slaps his hands on as he speaks to the crowd. It's easy to see since he is lightly dressed, wearing some knee breeches and only a vest that won't close over his belly.

"Ma'am, want your little boy to grow up smart? Buy him a book from me, Teufel! Or he'll end up slinging vegetables in the market like Freddie, there!," as he gestures towards a neighbouring stall. The target of his gibe simply shakes his head and continues bargaining over a bundle of carrots.

As Xenia approaches, the bookseller turns towards her and beams a big, toothy smile at her. How do so many teeth fit into one mouth, even one as big as this? Otherwise, the man is nondescript but your eyes are drawn back to those teeth, jutting every which way in his mouth.

"Looking for some bedtime reading, little lady? Or some other book?"

Xenia  d20+20=30
Thursday August 11th, 2005 10:11:44 AM
"Looks like this is the place."

"What's with this guy's teeth, huh Toros?" Xenia whispers "Anybody know anything 'bout this kinda thing?"

"Hi," the girl rogue does a little hand wave thing by way of introduction, "I'm Xenia."

"Pretty crowded here. We're from out of town." Xenia returns the smile, her even white teeth gleaming in her dark face. "Too bad about the flood, huh? Doesn't seem to keep folks down though."

"Acshully, we're lookin' for prayer books. The New Prayer book. Got some of that?"

Rolls and Actions
Spot 30 (To figure if this guy just has bad teeth, or if something else is going on here.)


Appolo  d20+8=22 d20+7=11
Thursday August 11th, 2005 11:08:52 AM
Appolo follows along letting the others move closer to Xenia while quickly and deftly stepping through the crowd.Agian he let's Xenia do the talking while Keeping his eyes and ears open.Scanning the crowd.

When she mentions prayer books but doesn't specify which one Appolo steps forward."Ah yes for Gargul Prayers for the temple.You see we have some business there."

Spot22,Listen 11

Nauthiz'Ull [drew.icevein] 
Thursday August 11th, 2005 11:55:18 AM
Scratching his stubble some more the ebony man keeps his eery-colored eyes flashing about.

"Wunjo, this is odd. New places are wonderful but this may be pushing it. Where are the trees and mountains and rivers?"

The bumpkin ranger constantly looks around in suspicion and uneasiness and keeps as close to the group as possible.

Uriel  d20+7=25
Friday August 12th, 2005 12:26:58 AM
Uriel will keep an eye out for other adventuring types that seem to be in a rush to get to the temple while Xenia talks to the bookseller.

Spot:25

Toros 
Friday August 12th, 2005 1:18:35 AM
Good question Xenia... Wish I would know... Perhaps trying to give a big smile to you... I wonder if he is aware of his disturbing smile... Lets get what we need and get rid of here... Oh, now I have an idea, his teeth could be his natural weapons, not for biting but for shooting, just like little but sharp darts!?!... Please dont take me serious...

... 
Friday August 12th, 2005 1:20:28 AM
whispers Toros

Teufel, Bookseller to the Masses (DM JohnP) 
Friday August 12th, 2005 7:58:30 AM
"What's that?," the bookseller replies, looking back and forth between Xenia and Appolo. "The new prayer books for Gargul? Why, I've got them right here!"

Xenia concludes that Teufel's teeth, while rather disturbing, are entirely natural. Maybe his parents came from a small village where everyone was cousins.

Under the eyes of Xenia, Appolo and Toros the bookseller steps back into his booth and picks up a book. Coming back to Xenia, he leans in close enough that Xenia can tell he was eating garlic the night before. "I can give you a good price on this one, only 12 gold. Look at the printing and the quality of the binding." He pauses and looks up at the group. "Err, how many did you want?"

Assuming that every member of the party wants a copy, Teufel goes back into his stall, sucking in his belly to avoid toppling a stack of other books. He collects a handful of the slim books and returns to Xenia and Appolo. "There. I'll give you a bargain of 10 gold apiece, since you're getting so many."

While the bookseller bargains, Nauthiz'Ull stares at the crowds. Ashalan, Garrett, Syr stand by quietly and allow the shopper in the party to make the purchases.

Uriel was looking more at the surrounding crowds rather than the bookseller. He gets a glimpse of a rusty red cloak swirling away as its wearer notices the paladin's attention.

Xenia  d20+1=16 d20+4=17
Friday August 12th, 2005 8:41:57 AM
"Ten gold?" Xenia raises a copper eyebrow. Her words are quiet. Measured. "Ten gold? Each?" She tips her head to the side, a comment born from gesture that might mean nothing. But, then again, it might just be a cousin to the slow disapproving shake of the head at the way things have gotten so expensive these days.

Xenia holds a book in each hand, comparing the relative weights. From her haversack she draws a merchant's scale. Each book spends the briefest of moments in the brass hanging tray to be replaced quickly by the next and the next and the next. Xenia takes in the measure of each as they pass.

"When Wynn and I go on trading expeditions with his mother," the dark rogue speaks as she works, "this is a little trick we use to judge the evenness of craftsmanship. You've heard of Brightsong Trading? We haven't set up a base of operations since Magpie Crossing, but we're looking." Xenia flips through the pages.

"Um, well, these look great. You have some fine merchandise here. But, a'course, you know that, huh? Now, I could offer you three gold, and you could counter with eight. We could go back and forth and back and forth, and that would be part of getting to know each other. But, instead, why don't we just jump to a number. I'll give you six gold each for the books and throw two gold on top to complete the lot. That's six times eight plus two equals fifty gold even. How's that?"

"Then with the rest of the time you could tell me how they craft this amazingly fine lettering."

Rolls and Actions
Bluff 16
Appraise 17

Ashalan 
Friday August 12th, 2005 10:06:07 AM
Ash watches the exchange between Xenia and the stout little merchant intently, trying to ferret out the secrets of trade.

But from the pained look on his face, it appears he is having litle luck.

"Isn't that a lot of gold for a couple of books?" He whispers to whomever is in earshot.

DM Addendum (DM JohnP) 
Friday August 12th, 2005 10:39:06 AM
Xenia and Ash, please make Sense Motive rolls, please. Anyone else who is concerned about the price should do the same.

If you can't make the rolls before I post next, I will do so for you.

Garrett 
Friday August 12th, 2005 10:40:23 AM
Garrett Quietly waits while Xenia attempts to acquire the prayer books. "My she is right at home here, I just can't get used to this place" Garrett thinks to himself.

Turning to Nauth Garrett quietly whispers to him "As far as I'm concerned, let's do what we need to do here as fast as we can. hopefully we will be directed to go somewhere a little less....Crowded."

Spell List
0-6 Create Water, Detect Magic, Detect Poison, Purify Food and Drink, Read Magic, Resistance
1-6+1 Bless, Bless Water, Divine Favor, Doom, Endure Elements, Shield of Faith (Enlarge Weapon)
2-5+1 Align Weapon, Bear's Endurance, Remove Paralysis, Spiritual Weapon, Status (Spiritual Weapon)
3-4+1 Curse, Dispel Magic, Prayer, Searing Light (Magic Vestment)
4-3+1 Airwalk, Divine Power, Restoration (Divine Power)
5-2+1 Greater Command, Righteous Might (Flame Strike)


Xenia (2nd Requested Post)  d20+2=3
Friday August 12th, 2005 11:01:42 AM
Terribly engrossed in her own assessment of the merchandise, the hidden motivations of the Laughing Bookseller go completely unnoticed by the dark rogue. (Sense Motive 3 /Nat 1)

Appolo 
Friday August 12th, 2005 1:08:33 PM
Appolo apparwently doesn't care to haggle and steps forward."Everyone grab abook."He then hands the bookseller apurse with 80 gold pieces in it."Come on let's go.We don't have time to haggle."He picks up a Prayer Book and heads for the temple.

Toros  d20=20
Friday August 12th, 2005 8:41:54 PM
A sudden spark of intelligence and charisma spreads out from the Liontaur (**sense motive natural 20**) "Your books are fine quality and could worth the money you ask for but I would think twice to say the same for your bargaining methods... OK, lets finish this business fair and quick..."

Syr 
Saturday August 13th, 2005 3:27:24 AM
The elf leans a hand against a nearby pole and looks on the barginning as a necessary evil. He mutters to Uriel, "Isn't this a race? Just buy the books and let's go!"

Uriel 
Monday August 15th, 2005 12:38:25 AM
Uriel mentions what he saw to those closest to him. "Someone in a red cloak saw that I spotted him and ghosted..." Uriel trails off.

"He went in that direction," he says pointing out the direction.

Caveat Emptor (DM JohnP) 
Monday August 15th, 2005 7:37:08 AM
Appolo is about to slam down a small purse of gold on the bookseller's counter when both Xenia and Toros interjects.

"Hey! Look at this!", the dark rogue explodes. She's pointing to the books handed to her by Teufel, demonstrating that they aren't identical. "They don't start with the same prayers!"

Toros makes a point of his opinion that the bookseller is vastly overstating the value of his books. Ashalan is of the same opinion, too.

Teufel looks back and forth between Appolo and Uriel pressing close, and Syr and Garrett muttering together further back. The silent stare of Nauthiz'Ull is almost as unnerving.

"Ummm ... ahhh ... I don't know how those got mixed up together. Ya ... umm ... let me take those back and ... I'll make sure that you've got the new ones." The chubby bookseller is wringing his hands as he looks back and forth between Xenia, the imposing size of Toros and the danglign temptation of Appolo's purse. "Is that all right to you?"

The party's objections weren't very quiet or subtle, so some of Teufel's neighbours overhear. That brings a chorus of catcalls and jibes from them, particularly the ones who were targets of Teufel's tongue.

The bookseller moves to the back of the stall and collects a pile of books identically bound with dark grey cloth. He brings them to the front and presses them into Xenia's hands.

"Here ... ahh ... with my compliments. Just ... ahhh ... don't mention this to the constables. All right?"

Xenia  d20+20=33 d20+3=15
Monday August 15th, 2005 10:57:21 AM
Hrmph!

"Some people have the nerve. Huh, Syr?" the girl rogue makes sure her voice is just loud enough as she checks through each of the books. "Just 'cause we're from outta town."

"*hehe*" The dark shopper chortles in secret delight when the group puts a little distance between themselves and the crooked bookseller. Nothing better than free stuff!

"Nice catch Ash, Toros. hehe." freefreefreefreefree! "Free stuff, 'Ppolo!"

"Um, so, like, what's this about some guy in a red cloak?" She looks around at the crowd, eyes searching for a flash of red. "You recognize anything about him, Uriel? Maybe local group connections, that sorta stuff?"

"Hmmm." With one eye on the crowd Xenia ponders the ramifications as they wend their way toward the temple of Gargul. "Who would be watching us? Not one of the other groups. Someone, maybe, who picked us up while we were going up Red Dragon Road? But what would they want? Maybe just to keep tabs, huh?"

"And let me ask ya," the rogue laughs and her white teeth flash in her dark face, "what idiot would try and tail a group while he's wearing a red cloak?"

Rolls and Actions
Spot 33 (For Red-Cloak boy)
Knowledge Local 15 (Even though Plateau City is not this girl's neck of the woods.)

Garrett 
Monday August 15th, 2005 11:35:21 AM
Garrett winds his way through the crowd, staying as close to the group as he is able. The press of the crowd and the sheer noise of the place are obviously a bit unnerving.

"What I wouldn't give to see nothing but ice and snow in every direction. How do these people even think here."

Appolo  d20+8=15
Monday August 15th, 2005 5:43:15 PM
Appolo takesa closer look at the bookseller and whispers to him"You ever try anything like this again and I'll comeback and put you out of business."He takes back his money grabs his copy moves off toward the temple.

Lookimg at Xenia"Yeah free.Thank you for spotting that."Now to the Temple.'He also keeps an sharp eye out on the crowd.

Everyone do a package check make sure you all still have your purses and gear.Appolo checks himself.

Spot15

Ashalan  d20+5=7
Monday August 15th, 2005 6:07:43 PM
Thinking to himself about the education in trade he had just recieved, Ash almost missed the rest of the group dissapearing into the crowd.

Grabbing his prayer book, Ash hurries after them, trying to keep them in sight. (Spot Check: 7 uh-oh!)

"Hey guys, wait for me!"

With the yell, a furious squeaking, sounding somewhat admonishing, emits from somewhere in the folds of his clothes. Ash, grinding his teeth, responds to his familliar.

"Well who asked you? Keep it up and there will be no scraps for you!"

Nauthiz'Ull [drew.icevein] 
Monday August 15th, 2005 8:00:57 PM
The ranger grabs his copy of this bible and holds it in his left hand. With a smirk he begins thumping the cover with his right thumb.

Looking towards Garret with a warmhearted smile the ranger chuckles, "Well wunjo, looks like I am one of you now. Bible thumpin and all..."

With sure strides the ebony man keeps pace with the rest of the group as they head off on a wild goose chase of Xenia.

Uriel 
Monday August 15th, 2005 9:22:40 PM
"May Domi grasp you firmly in his hand Sir," Uriel says with conviction while he looks hard into the eyes of the vendor.

Uriel laughs and shrugs at Xenia's comments. "Plateau city is full of peacocks, it is almost assured that you would stick out if you tried too hard to look unobstrusive. Let's keep our eyes open."



The Enemy Threatens (DM JohnP) 
Tuesday August 16th, 2005 9:33:17 AM
After distributing the prayer books, the party tries to keep together as they pass through the fringes of the market towards the temple. Xenia leads off, followed closely by Garrett and Appolo. Ash almost loses sight of party but the imposing size of Toros makes keeping up relatively easy.

Once the party clears the last of the vendors, there is a strip of clear pavement around the temple of the God of Death and Life. The party is too close now to see all three lobes of the temple, but the main entrance doors are just to the north of the party.

Easily spotted by anyone looking for them, a cluster of eight people stands near the entrance. Each of them is outfitted as if for adventuring. The common element among them is a red cloak like that glimpsed by Uriel.

The cluster of red-cloaks notice as soon as the party steps into the clear area. Examination of the group shows that their gear includes heavy armor, with half of the group armed with mace and buckler while the other half carry bastard swords. The sword-bearers also wear cruelly spiked gauntlets on each hand. With the visors on their helms and the bulk of the armor, you cannot tell more about the red-cloaks.

Closer examination would reveal more.
Spot DC 10 required Highlight to display spoiler: {Each of the group wears two holy symbols: a symbol of Marteaus, and an Eye of Gargul that is red instead of the usual black.}

Anyone who makes the above Spot roll can make a Knowledge: Religion DC 12. Nauthiz'Ull gets a +5 on this roll.
Highlight to display spoiler: {Those who wear the Red Eye of Gargul used to worship the evil side of Gargul before the Year of Ascension. Now, they follow Marteaus, yet refuse to give up their former allegiance, choosing to believe that some godly force has corrupted their former God for good.}

If Uriel (or anyone else) chooses to Detect Evil: Highlight to display spoiler: {The group radiates evil. Continue to concentrate for more information, if you choose.}

The cluster of red-cloaks stands between the party and the entrance of the Temple. What do you choose to do?


Xenia  d20+20=36 d20+22=38 d20+22=26 d20+13=14 d20+2=16
Tuesday August 16th, 2005 10:15:51 AM
The Red Cloak Boys. And there's a bunch a them.

The dark rogue gives them the eye over, but one Clerky type is just like another. They wear dangly things. These guys look pretty tough.

Xenia's green eyes flick over their lips, trying to suss out what they're saying. She lets the folds of her own dark cloak drop and enfold her in it's depths. With a casual step, she drops back behind Appolo. Another step takes her to Garrett's side. A sidestep, and the rogue's cloak blends in a perfect match with the dark of Toros' shadow. She is, effectively, gone.

"I don't like the looks a them Cloak Guys." The whisper comes out rough, throaty, almost sensuous. "I'm gonna skip ahead and listen in on what they're talking 'bout."

"See you when you see me. I'll be around."

Rolls and Actions
Spot 36 (Both to scope out the stuff their wearing and to Read their Lips.)
Hide 38 (Hide in Plain Sight)
Move Silently 26
Listen 14 (To their conversation /Nat 1)
Sense Motive 16

Attempt to move from shadow to shadow, get close to them and listen in on their conversation. Is the Message spell between Toros and Xenia still active?

DM JohnP - Duration on the Message was 10 minutes, so it has expired.

Appolo  d20+8=28 d20+2=22
Tuesday August 16th, 2005 11:25:31 AM
Appolo Appolo moves lightly back"Well guys we got followers of Matreus up ahead and they're ready for action.Half are former followers of Gargul who switched to Matreus after the Year os Acsention,that's the red Eye of Gargul from before that year.These guys are evil incarnate.I hope you guys brought your dancing shoes,becuase it's time to dance.Then again they could be on the smae quest we are,but I doubt they'll let us pass.Let's spread out and move forward."Appolo moves quickly forward and to the right.

Ashalan  d20+5=10
Tuesday August 16th, 2005 4:01:02 PM
"So these guys may be trouble eh?"

Pausing a moment to concentrate and move his hands in an intricate pattern, a invisible shield seems to ripple forth from his body, making his silver hair stand on end. (Cast Mage Armor)

Better safe than sorry...

Feeling a tad more secure behind his arcane armor, Ash positions himself at the rear of the party, ready for anything. (Spot Check: 10)

Active Spells
Mage Armor (9 Hours Remaining)

Spell List
0 Level (Max Known 6, Castable 6)
Dancing Lights (Creates globes of light surrounding caster)
Detect Magic (Detect spells and magic items within 60 ft.)
Ghost Sound (Figment Sounds)
Prestidigitation (Performs minor tricks)
Read Magic (Read Scrolls and Spellbooks)
Resistance (+1 on Saving Throws)

1st Level (Max Known 4, Castable 6+1)- 6 Left
Mage Armor (+4 Armor Bonus)
Enlarge Person (Humanoid Creature Doubles in Size)
Expeditious Retreat (Speed increases by 30 ft)
Shocking Grasp (Touch Delivers 1d6/level elec. Damage)

2nd Level (Max Known 2, Castable 4+1)
Cat's Grace (+4 Dex)
Scorching Ray (Ranged Touch attack deals 4d6 fire damage/+1 ray for every 4 levels: Ash gets 2 rays)



Syr 
Tuesday August 16th, 2005 5:12:24 PM
Syr looks at the cloaked men with apprehension, "Well, if they hadn't already seen us, I'd offer to distract them while everyone sneaks in? As it is, are there any other less obvious ways in? Otherwise, like Appolo said 'we will be dancing.'"

Toros  d20=17 d20=15 d20=13
Tuesday August 16th, 2005 7:34:31 PM
Knowing the Message spell has expired already, Toros gets and casts another scroll, pointing to Xenia, just before she disappears. Not knowing exactly where the Shadowdancer is Toros then whispers to the direction of the red-cloaks Xenia, be careful out there, and if need any help just let us know

Thinking about what Appolo has acknowledge, Toros also relies on his own perception and information to get a better sense of what is waiting ahead of the group. (Listen, 21; Spot, 19>10, DC, Knowledge Religion, 13>12, DC)

<<Sorry to miss the previous post, a bit busy nowadays.

Would there be enough vegetation around to make casting Entangle worthwhile?>>

Uriel  d20+7=10 d20=7
Wednesday August 17th, 2005 7:46:05 AM
Uriel makes the spots but fails the religion check.

He does detect evil and he concentrates for more info...

Garrett (AC:27, HP:80/71)  d20+9=28 d20+13=19
Wednesday August 17th, 2005 7:56:36 AM
Spot:28
Know Religion:19
Active Spells: divine power(+2BAB,+6str,+9hp)

"You're right on Appolo. These guys are trouble. Looks like my dance card just filled up. Since they've seen us, Xenia probably won't get much of a chance to listen to them, but she can get behind them if they come for us."

Garrett casts Divine Power and then pulls his sword from it's sheath. He then calls out to the red cloaked men, "Hope we didn't keep you waiting. Would you like to beg for mercy now, or wait a few moments?"

Spell List
0-6 Create Water, Detect Magic, Detect Poison, Purify Food and Drink, Read Magic, Resistance
1-6+1 Bless, Bless Water, Divine Favor, Doom, Endure Elements, Shield of Faith (Enlarge Weapon)
2-5+1 Align Weapon, Bear's Endurance, Remove Paralysis, Spiritual Weapon, Status (Spiritual Weapon)
3-4+1 Curse, Dispel Magic, Prayer, Searing Light (Magic Vestment)
4-3+1 Airwalk, Divine Power, Restoration (Divine Power(cast))
5-2+1 Greater Command, Righteous Might (Flame Strike)

Nauthiz'Ull [drew.icevein]  d20+13=22 d20+12=15 d20+13=30
Wednesday August 17th, 2005 8:14:02 AM
THe eagle eyes of the ranger keep flashing this way ans that but manage to settle on the ornaments of these strange figures{spot-22:Know:religion-15ack!}.

"How can these guys walk around in the open like this? They should be locked up somewhere."

Nauth chuckles to himself as everyone takes alarm and breaks into a fighting posture. He merely scratches his jaw and steps away from the group a bit.

Once there Nauth scans the area for any other potential threats that may be in plain clothes{spot-30}
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Nauth will move 30' to the outer flank of the group and the Red Cloaks. Basically putting the Red Cloaks between himself and the temple if possible.

CS almost done! Promise it by the end of today!!!!

An Unfriendly Welcome 
Wednesday August 17th, 2005 8:18:04 AM
Looking across the open space, some of the party realize what faces them and they share this with the rest. Lookign closely, the party can see that the four bearing bastard swords are clad in armor crafted in the appearance of demons from the nether realms, complete with spikes on the vambraces and gauntlets.

The Red Eye of Gargul ... whispered about in the training halls of all of the Gods of teh Wold. Reviled by most followers of Gargul, those who have embraced the change in their deity following the Year of Ascension. Feared by many, both for their actions and their unknown goals.

Xenia disappears into the shadows and moves ahead to scout. Toros quickly manages to retrieve and invoke a scroll before she disappears.

Meanwhile, Appolo, Garrett and Syr look ahead with a mix of anticipation and apprehension. While Ashalan casts a protective magic, the remainder of the group move out into a loose formation to cross the last part of the square. Nauthiz'Ull moves out to the left, away from the temple and flanking the group.

Uriel continues to focus his attention on them, trying to discern more about their nature.
Highlight to display spoiler: {There are eight evil auras in the group of Red-cloaks. The most powerful aura is strong.
Continue to concentrate for more informatio.}

As Xenia nears the group of Red-cloaks, a palpable sensation of malignancy comes from them. She falters briefly in her resolve, feeling less confident in her ability to avoid dangers.

As the remainder of the group approach, a muffled voice comes from the Red-cloaks. "Do not continue this avenue of investigation. If you do, we will take strong actions to stop you. Fair warning has been given." Xenia and anyone else watching doesn't see any of them speak, but that may be because of the helms covering their heads.

When all of the party but Nauthiz'Ull is close enough to also feel the malignant sensation from the Red-cloaks, they shift slightly. Perhaps to allow you to move by ... or maybe to get into better fighting position. Either way, none of them have made any preparations as you approach.

Sense Motive DC 20
Highlight to display spoiler: {They Red-cloaks have made no obvious preparations, or drawn weapons. They want to provoke the party into making the first attack.}

The party is standing 10 feet from the Red-cloaks, with the open doorway behind the Red-cloaks.

Life continues as normal in the rest of the square, with no one paying any more attention to what is happening. The citizens of Plateau City have become accustomed to the posturing and rivalries of adventuring groups and no longer pay attention. At least, until the missiles and spells start flying.

Hehe ... three people people posted while I was doing the DM post. This is the revised version reflecting your posts.

Appolo 
Wednesday August 17th, 2005 10:12:40 AM
Appolo moves forward.Hr really doesn't want to take these guys on at least not straight up"We have business in the Temple and have no wish to fight you.Let us pass in peace."he turns to his firend"Let them be.Let us enter the temple with out blodshed."He hopes the others get his hint,for he doesn't like the odds with these guys being so heavily armoured.

Xenia  d20+1=10 d20+22=38 d20+22=35
Wednesday August 17th, 2005 11:15:19 AM
Gakk! These guys feel gross.

Weird, though. Them just standing there. Wonder what they're on about?

Slipping quietly up behind the armored Red Cloaks, Xenia stands in the shadow of the temple and contemplates the situation. If they get into a dust up out here, there could be people hurt. Innocent folks, just out for a day shopping or worshiping or stuff.

And being up against a wall of iron bad guys can't be a good thing.

Quickly, she turns, keeping one eye over her shoulder on the Red Cloaks. She pulls open the temple doors, and they open as though of their own volition.

"Hey Toros," she whispers, "if you still got your Whisper thing on, tell 'Ppolo and everyone to make a run for the temple. If they attack, we can maybe hold them off just inside the doors."

"Who knows, maybe they'll think twice a'cause fighting in the temple might make Gargul angry or sump'tin.

Rolls and Actions
Sense Motive 10
Hide 38 (Hide in Plain Sight)
Move Silently 35

Toros  d20=6 d20=11 d20=16 d20=2 d20=9
Wednesday August 17th, 2005 1:47:14 PM
Toros cannot sense well the motive of these red cloaks (9<20) but he notices the opening of the Temple gates (spot 15), followed by a message from Xenia. He whispers back I got it Xenia The liontaur then tells what Xenia says to Appolo and others, trying not to be seen (hide, 28) or heard (move silently, 17) by the armored red-cloaks. 'Guys do you see the gates opened, Xenia is there and asks us to make a run to the Temple, when we are ready, they would not fight us inside the temple Later Toros turns to the red cloaks and talk in an attempt to support what Appolo has said. "We do not want fight today, we are here to pray for the soul of our lost comrades, fighters like you should have respect for this, as well...", showing briefly the prayer books he has got. His bluff could seem to be a weak one (9+2=11) but this is in fact one of the things that Toros would do once inside the temple. "...When we finish our prayers and come out of the temple, if yo are still here, then we can think of something to do together..."

Garrett (AC:27, HP:80/71)  d20+5=10
Wednesday August 17th, 2005 5:03:28 PM
Sense motive:10

Garrett does not notice that the opponents wish us to strike first. But, it is obvious to him that his comrades do not think it appropriate to engage them yet. Garrett thinks to himself, yes, I guess there would be laws here to prevent open combat in the street. What was I thinking.

Garrett slowly sheathes his sword and walks right up to the group of red clad warriors, with the intention of walking right by them into the temple. Garrett thinks to himself once more "I will not run past them like a frightened child. If combat is forbidden in this city, then I will walk right by. If they swing first , then it's self defense and we can clean their clocks."

Spell List
0-6 Create Water, Detect Magic, Detect Poison, Purify Food and Drink, Read Magic, Resistance
1-6+1 Bless, Bless Water, Divine Favor, Doom, Endure Elements, Shield of Faith (Enlarge Weapon)
2-5+1 Align Weapon, Bear's Endurance, Remove Paralysis, Spiritual Weapon, Status (Spiritual Weapon)
3-4+1 Curse, Dispel Magic, Prayer, Searing Light (Magic Vestment)
4-3+1 Airwalk, Divine Power, Restoration (Divine Power(cast))
5-2+1 Greater Command, Righteous Might (Flame Strike

Nauthiz'Ull [drew.icevein]  d20+13=20 d20+12=25 d20+4=9
Wednesday August 17th, 2005 5:14:45 PM
The ranger watches as he tries to mingle casually with the other folk in the street{spot-20:Listen-25).

There is not inclination in his posture for wanting to fight, especially in a place like this. People everywhere and there is no way to tell who is on what side.

The ranger watches the people of the street as well, hoping to figure out this jigsaw puzzle of a situation{gather info-9}.

Syr 
Thursday August 18th, 2005 5:35:10 AM
The elf lingers waiting to determine the reaction of the armored men before moving. Not really concerned with his ability to bypass them he watches with interest as Garrett nears the group.

In Passing (DM JohnP) 
Thursday August 18th, 2005 8:04:12 AM
The Red-cloaks stand, not moving for their weapons or otherwise reacting as the party approaches.

Appolo speaks to the Red-cloaks, but gets no response. When he nears, one of the Red-cloaks moves aside to let him pass.

Unseen behind the Red-cloaks, Xenia opens the doors of the Temple of Gargul. With the doorway open, there is a path forward.

Toros relays the message from Xenia to his fellows, then moves up to the Red-cloaks. One of them bearing a mace and buckler moves to present a path for the liontaur.

Garrett sheathes his sword. He's uncertain, but was that a smirk crossing the face of the nearest Red-cloak? Confident in the protection of Domi, the cleric moves up to and through the Red-cloaks. He moves relatively close to the hidden Xenia, but still feels the deadening sensation from the Red-cloaks.

Syr hangs back, waiting and watching to see the reaction of the Red-cloaks.

Nauthiz'Ull hangs back on one flank, trying to blend with the crowd. The crowd ignores him, but the Red-cloaks do not. He seems to be a focus of their attention, based on their postures.

Uriel stands beside Syr, presumably to continue concentrating on the Red-cloaks to divine the extent of their nature.
Highlight to display spoiler: {The four Red-cloaks equipped with mace and buckler radiates a Strong evil aura.

The four Red-cloaks armed with bastard swords each have a Moderate evil aura. Their auras are nearly overwhelmed by the Strong evil auras coming from their grotesque spiked armour. Each of their broadswords also radiates a Moderate evil aura.}

Ashalan also stands back with Syr, waiting.

Garrett and Xenia are past the Red-cloaks, while Appolo and Toros are almost in their ranks. All of them can see into the central, main part of the Temple of Gargul. While no passersby have interrupted the confrontation with the Red-cloaks, the four can now see a small cluster of people leaving the Temple. Just inside the door sit several men and women, each of them with a small pile of rolled rugs behind them.

Nauthiz'Ull is on one flank while Syr, Uriel and Ashalan wait to see what happens. Do the rest of you move forward to join your companions? Or, do you do something else?


Nauthiz'Ull [drew.icevein] 
Thursday August 18th, 2005 10:28:17 AM
The ranger calmly realizes that the redcloaks know of his presence and decide that if the others are going in then so is he.

He strides forward and around the back of the redcloaks to the gate enterance but holds up at the gate, waiting for the rest of the group to clear the redcloaks.

Xenia  d20+22=39 d20+22=33 d20+20=32 d20+13=29
Thursday August 18th, 2005 11:08:00 AM
*sigh* Men. Always gotta be looking tough and like that.

"I'm goin' in, Xenia whispers to Toros. "Gonna take a look inside.

The dark rogue ghosts cautiously through the open door and into the temple. She slides to the right, clearing the doorway for the others.

Folks with rugs and stuff. Xenia's half-elven sight runs the periphery of the room, noting all possible places of concealment, pieces of furniture that might provide cover, the illumination within room, and the alternate exits ... Or the lack thereof.

Rolls and Actions
Hide 39 (Hide in Plain Sight)
Move Silently 33
Spot 32
Listen 29

Garrett  d20+9=14
Thursday August 18th, 2005 11:08:56 AM
Garrett does not at all like the smirk that awaited his arrival. It quickly occurs to him that he may have just moved himself between a rock and a hard place.

Garrett continues forward just into the entryway to the temple and begins looking the place over for assailants, or anything else that could be a threat.

Spot: 14

Uriel - Pressing On 
Thursday August 18th, 2005 12:06:19 PM
Uriel feels the compulsion to come to swords with the strong evil that he feels coming from the group but as he grips his sword, he remembers the mission.

The larger evil is the one affecting the entire Wold - there will always be more in the way of these to smash

He painfully releases his grip on his sword and clenches his jaw as he moves through the Red-Cloaks with his head high.

Appolo 
Thursday August 18th, 2005 2:06:28 PM
Appolo walks forward quickly and confidently.He looks at the redcloaked men as passes through them"Thank you."he says to the one who let him pass.

Once inside the temple Appolo heads forward to
to the small group of people with the rugs."Hello.Is there are priest anong you?"

Ashalan 
Thursday August 18th, 2005 4:58:43 PM
Seeing the rest of the party move past the red cloaks with little trouble, Ash hurries after them, a warning thought crossing his mind.

I'm pretty sure I do not want to be left out here with those fellows...

Trying to seem as inconspicuous as possible as he skirts a little farther from the sour-looking group as he nears he doors.

Toros 
Friday August 19th, 2005 3:50:30 AM
Toros thinks to think and say something to the red-cloak but the overwhelming tension that comes with the happening of nothing makes him forget about everything and he just wants to feel comfortable again with what he is aware and hopefully can handle.

From outside, at the moment, Toros seems patiently and silently waiting for his companions to gather again. but inside himself a storm is going on with thunderstriking questions like what we are doing here, why these red-cloaks let us pass, what is waiting us now inside the temple etc... Then he hears the whisper of Xenia, and nods in agreement in return, not paying attention to the fact that gestures will have to wait for centuries to be converted as icons into a message text. :-b

In the Temple of Gargul 
Friday August 19th, 2005 7:39:40 AM
The party moves forward, through and around the group of Red-cloaks and into the entrance of the temple. Except for Syr, that is. He hasn't decided yet whether to stay outside or enter the Temple.

As Nauthiz'Ull skirts the group of Red-cloaks, he hears muttered imprecations of "Heretic!", "Disbeliever!" and "Faithless!" coming from the Red-cloaks. When he looks at them, he cannot tell which of the Red-cloaks were speaking.

Xenia ghosts into the Temple, looking for places of concealment and escape. This entry area is rather plain, with pillars at the sides supporting a vaulted ceiling. There are shadows in the corners and along the walls. She can't see yet into any of the three wings, but can see some of the central area. Besides the seated people with the rugs, there is a small group of worshippers leaving the Temple.

Garrett continues into the narthex of the Temple, also alert for potential attackers. It seems peaceful here, with only the strangely toneless chant of the rug-vendors, "Rugs, prayer rugs", repeated over and over again.

Uriel's words do not draw any reaction from the Red-cloak beyond a fleeting sneer.

Appolo also strides through the group of Red-cloaks and into the entry of the temple. He approaches one of the people seated in front of the rugs. The halfling woman that he addresses turns vacant eyes towards him and repeats her chant, "Rugs, prayer rugs" without interruption.

Ashalan scurries around the Red-cloaks, seeking to joing his companions. Toros internally debates the nature of his discomfort and impatience, then is rescued from his navel-gazing by Xenia's message.

The group, except for Syr, is now in the entry of the temple. The group of people leaving the temple approach the rug-vendors and each of them return a rolled rug. Looking into the main part of the Temple, the group can see individuals and small groups of people seated on rugs, either praying, studying or simply talking in hushed voices.

Nauthiz'Ull is most familiar with the practices of the Temple of Gargul.
Nauthiz'Ull - Highlight to display spoiler: {Worshippers are expected to either have their own prayer rug, or borrow one for a small donation, before entering the main body or any of the three wings. The temple shelters people affected by undead or soul-damaging magics, providing them with simple jobs such as this or sweeping. Of course, sometimes an acolyte or student is assigned to these jobs.}

Where do you go from here? You have some time before you really need to be in the main body of the temple.

Xenia  d20+13=28
Friday August 19th, 2005 8:26:57 AM
"Heretic! Disbeliever! Faithless!" The words drift in through the open front doors. Xenia almost slaps her forehead.

Shadows wash away from the rogue and she steps away from the wall to count the groups numbers again. ... two, three, four, five, six ...

Poking her head around the doorjamb, she spots her fellow Crimson Shield.

"Hey, Syr! C'mon, lets go. Don't pay no 'ttension to them. They're just spoiled sports. Bet they try and give the heebees to everyone comin' into the temple."

But ... then again ... Why was that one red cloak following them????

"Um, hey you guys," Xenia frames herself in the doorway with one hand on hip, "were you followin' us? I mean, when we were buying books we caught a Red Cloak guy watchin' us, but he ran off."

"Was that, like, you? Or was it some other guy in a red cloak?"

Rolls and Actions
Listen 28 (To catch the words said outside)

Appolo 
Friday August 19th, 2005 9:59:44 AM
Appolo smiles at the woman'Ah yes prayer rugs.Thank you."He says as takes a rug.

Appolo turns to the others"Xenia,Toros,everyone grab a prayer rug and being this is a temple making a donation probably wouldn't hurt either.I know the Priests of G'aal are always collecting them."

Appolo finds a collection plate puts a couple gold pieces in it.

Ashalan 
Friday August 19th, 2005 12:29:39 PM
By Alemi! Cannot we all just get along?!

With a sigh that seems to encompass his disdain for all the shortsighted beings of the Wold., Ash quietly deposits several coins in the donation plate and secures a rug for himself.

Finding himself near Appolo Ash addresses the rouge.

"I cannot speak for you friend, but a little quiet meditation would do me much good right about now."

Appolo 
Friday August 19th, 2005 1:03:50 PM
Appolo smiles at his new friend"Hey don't sweat the fools of the world.The gods love fools.I mean they must because they created so many of them.Everythings cool.We got in with out any trouble.Now getting out might be little tricky,besides life's to short to take seriously.Now let's see if we can find this person we're supposed to meet."

Garrett 
Friday August 19th, 2005 4:04:20 PM
Garrett puts a few gold in the offering bowl and selects a rug. Garrett will then move back against the wall and watch the rug vendors for a short time, as something about them seems odd. After watching them for a time, Garrett will open the prayer book to the required page and read the page to see if there happens to be anything that stands out in the writings(ie. a warning or passage that could well apply to us.)

Spell List
0-6 Create Water, Detect Magic, Detect Poison, Purify Food and Drink, Read Magic, Resistance
1-6+1 Bless, Bless Water, Divine Favor, Doom, Endure Elements, Shield of Faith (Enlarge Weapon)
2-5+1 Align Weapon, Bear's Endurance, Remove Paralysis, Spiritual Weapon, Status (Spiritual Weapon)
3-4+1 Curse, Dispel Magic, Prayer, Searing Light (Magic Vestment)
4-3+1 Airwalk, Divine Power, Restoration (Divine Power(cast))
5-2+1 Greater Command, Righteous Might (Flame Strike


Toros 
Sunday August 21st, 2005 8:38:02 PM
Toros also gets his rug to use inside the temple in return for a donation. He looks at to see what kind of rug is that. He does not expect to see cheerful colors or humour, but hopes to catch some good sense of art.

Uriel 
Sunday August 21st, 2005 11:56:30 PM
{FYI - didn't mean for that to be out loud in previous post that was what the italics were for - sorry for the confusion.}

Uriel will also give a donation in return for the prayer rug and look to the others on where to go being unfamiliar with this temple.

Into the Temple (DM JohnP) 
Monday August 22nd, 2005 7:55:28 AM
The party makes their donations and pick up prayer rugs. The clatter of coins in the collection plates prompts an interruption in the chants. "Rugs, prayer rugs. Rugs, prayer rugs ... thank you ... Rugs, prayer rugs."

Xenia steps out of the shadows in the entry hall and looks across the boulevard to her companion from Floating City. Syr is either lost in thought or too frightened of the Red-cloaks.

The Red-cloaks look back and forth between the group inside the temple and Syr. They pointedly ignore Xenia's questions. After some quiet discussion, the Red-cloaks move to the side and pass out of the view of Xenia. The tromp of boots suggests that the Red-cloaks are moving away, however.

Appolo makes a generous donation and leads the party into the main part of the temple. Ashalan joins him there.

Garrett, however, remains in the entryway and watches the vendors. After coming to the conclusion that they are harmless, he browses his prayer book. He leafs through to Chapter 6, as instructed, and finds it to be a collection of tales about the early days of Gargul.

Nauthiz'Ull would know more about that, but the follower of Gargul appears lost in some quiet devotions to his god.

Toros and Uriel each pick up a prayer rug and join Ashalan and Appolo just inside the main temple. Looking around, they see individuals and small groups seated on their prayer rugs. This part of the temple actually seems to be more a meeting place, or impromptu classroom that a place of devotion.

The time is approaching noon, when you were supposed to meet your contact. Your contact wasn't described to you, instead you were to be wearing the hoods and reading the new prayer book and your contact would recognize you.

The four find an open spot with room for the entire party. With an eye to security, the spot is neither too close nor too far from the exit or a wall. After a moment, Nauthiz'Ull joins them but he appears to be lost in thought. Xenia and Garrett are still in the entry way.

Sub Needed (DM JohnP) 
Monday August 22nd, 2005 7:57:14 AM
Nauthiz'Ull needed a sub for this week. If Garrett can't do it, I'll run Nauthiz'Ull as a robot.

Xenia  d20+20=23
Monday August 22nd, 2005 10:39:28 AM
"Hmph." Xenia turns up her nose and hmphs as the Red Cloak Guys ignore her and walk away.

"What was that about?" she mutters to herself. "C'mon, Syr." She grabs the monk's hand and hurries after the others. A few coins clink into the donation thingie, and the rogue grabs up a couple of rugs. She stops. Looks at the one she got for herself, swaps it out for another with a little different color scheme.

The dark rogue holds for a moment at the threshold of the room. She straightens her hair, making sure that all the red strands are tucked up into her black bandana. Then she pulls the hood of the new cloak up and over, draping her face in mystery. (hehe)

The rogue scans the room for signs of anyone who might be watching them.

Moving across the room, just one dark cloak among many, she sticks the prayer book out the front of the cloak so that just the book and one hand is just showing. With her fingers, she flips the book open to a random page. Xenia glances down, then up, then down again.

"So, this book any good? she whispers.

Rolls and Actions
Spot 23 (to catch anyone watching them)

Appolo 
Monday August 22nd, 2005 2:31:28 PM
Applo places his rug on the floor kneels on it turns to chapter 6 and begins reading,while keeping an eye out.Wishing everyone would get over hear.

Ashalan 
Monday August 22nd, 2005 5:48:01 PM
Ash pulls his hood up, hiding his conspicuous silver hair from sight. Slding the prayer book for a pocket up his sleeve, Ash flips through the small book, trying to ascertain the differences between the worship of Gargul and the teachings of Alemi that he was raised upon.

Quickly lost in thought (the strain evident on his face) Ash almost trips over Appolo as he comes upon the pirate kneeling on the floor. As smoothly as he can, Ash regains his balance, then kneels beside him.

Garrett 
Monday August 22nd, 2005 8:15:23 PM
(I can run Nauth this week. Just send me his CS. cnkjones@comcast.net)

Garrett follows after the others and takes his place among them, (being especially mindful of his phylactery of faithfulness while in the temple of Gargul) and waits for something to happen.

Nauthiz'Ull (sub-chris) 
Monday August 22nd, 2005 9:30:45 PM
Nauthiz'Ull enters the temple and secures himself a rug, quickly trying to catch up to the others after losing track of the time in prayer. He moves next to Garrett and kneels, then quietly begins praying.

Uriel  d20+7=19
Monday August 22nd, 2005 9:55:23 PM
Uriel will half-heartedly glance through his book, trying to keep an eye out for anyone...
Spot:19

Toros 
Tuesday August 23rd, 2005 4:23:25 AM
Placing his rug, Toros gives a concentrated prayer for the lost comrades in previous fights, as promised to himself. Then, he starts showing off that he is wearing his cloak and reading his prayer book same as his companions. However to make a little bit fun he holds the prayer book upside-down and tries to read it just like that. Well it is not an easy task to do!!

Toros addendum 
Tuesday August 23rd, 2005 4:28:34 AM
...and the Taur whispers back to Xenia. Well I do not know Xenia, it is a bit hard for me to read it, and all it has its words and words... but no pictures.

Priest and Parchment 
Tuesday August 23rd, 2005 7:42:21 AM
The party settles down onto their prayer mats, clutching the prayer books in hand. The party is almost evenly split between those who study the prayer books, and those who watch for their contact.

Toros is holding his book upside down and leafing through it, looking for illustrations. Meanwhile, there is a loose thread on his rug that is very, very tempting.

Uriel and Appolo both keep looking for their contact, while Xenia had been scanning the temple as she walked up to the group.

Ashalan, Garrett and Nauthiz'Ull were all paying more attention to the prayer book. Syrdeth, the monk, is still lost in thought.

Those who are watching the room notice several other similar groups of people scattered about the room. All the other groups, however, seem to be students and a teacher. At this distance, you can't tell what the topic of instruction might be. And no other group is entirely clad in black hoods like you are.

After a short time, a man pushes himself up from where he had been kneeling on a rug near the entrance. After rolling the rug, he approaches the party and crouches down.

"Okay, I'm here. What's up?" The man speaking is slight and appears to be dressed much as the party is, lacking only obvious armour and weapons.

Xenia  d20+2=12
Tuesday August 23rd, 2005 9:27:22 AM
From within the dark folds of her hood, Xenia scrutinizes the man with her green green eyes. Another hand reaches out from within the cloak and quickly flips the prayer book to the beginning of Chapter 6. Without saying a word, she holds the book up, face out so that the man can see.

"Either you recognize it. Or you don't," she says, trying to make her voice dark and mysterious. "My name's Xenia. And whether you recognize it or not, 'Okay, I'm here. What's up?' is not a good way for you to start. Which is something you know if you're the person who we think you oughta be."

Rolls and Actions
Sense Motive 12 (To figure if this guy is trying to make contact. Or if he's just curious about the odd group with the hooded cloaks. Or possible even mistaken us for some other group.)

Garrett  d20+5=9
Tuesday August 23rd, 2005 1:37:06 PM
Garrett looks at the man standing before them. "I do not think that we are here to see you. What's up is for you to already know."

Sense motive: 9(nuts)

Nauthiz'Ull (Sub-Chris) 
Tuesday August 23rd, 2005 7:32:20 PM
Nauth tries to get a feeling for what this person is upto, and whether or not he holds any place within the church.

(Take 10 on sense motive and Knowledge of religion. Don't have CS for Nauth)

Toros 
Tuesday August 23rd, 2005 8:56:44 PM
Noticing the loose thread on the rug and the man that starts to talk with the group, Toros is in the middle; whether to pay attention to the stranger who talks strangely or pull the thread, what he should do now? He decides to go with the second, and starts pulling slowly the loose thread. It is because not only the irressistable temptation comes with the attractive thread but also he cannot yet decide what to do with the man. The best is to see and wait, err wait and see. The thread would keep him busy meanwhile. His one ear and half brain is at the conversations with the man, though.

DM JohnP 
Tuesday August 23rd, 2005 10:03:35 PM
Syrdeth is suffering from a network card failure, so will be absent for a bit.

Uriel  d20+2=17
Tuesday August 23rd, 2005 11:20:26 PM
Uriel also tries to divine what the man's motives are (Sense Motive:17}

"We do not have times for games, sir. Please do not dally with us. We have important work to do and if you know not what it is then you are wasting our time."

Appolo 
Wednesday August 24th, 2005 5:49:30 AM
Appolo looks uo at the man"well now.I think you should tell us what's up as near as I can nature is what's up.So why don't you tell us what's up?"

What's Up?  d20+5=25
Wednesday August 24th, 2005 8:00:44 AM
The groups reacts with skepticism of the man who approached them. The thin man moves to reassure them.

"No, no ... don't misunderstand me. I was told to look for a bunch of people dressed like you are, all in black." Motioning towards the floor, he asks "Mind if I sit?"

Unrolling his rug, he moves to sit with the group even without anyone expressing permission. He speaks to the group in quick but hushed tones. "Hi, I'm Jab. Like I said, I was hired to meet a group here. Told that they'd be all dressed alike, in black. I'm supposed to help you all out. I don't know what's up, because I'm supposed to help you with whatever it is. Sorry, that was just an expression."

The man seems honest to everyone who expressed any doubts. Nauthiz'Ull doesn't notice any obvious religious symbols, gestures or anything else to suggest a connection with the Temple of Gargul.

Xenia  d20+20=37
Wednesday August 24th, 2005 8:19:28 AM
"Go ahead. Sit," Xenia says with a casual easy. She waits till the man, Jab, is all unrolled and comfy on his mat.

"Dressed in black and what?" she asks. "Just dressed in black? Is that all? Nothing else? Code word? Secret wave? Nothin'?"

"Help is great, you know." The rogues eye moves through the room, spying for someone who might be watching. Maybe from beside the door. Maybe even a secret peephole!!! "But maybe you tell us who hired you first, Jab, before we tell you anything in return, huh?"

Rolls and Actions
Spot 37

Garrett  d20+5=13
Wednesday August 24th, 2005 4:01:40 PM
"I like this not. Something is not right here. What you are saying does not make sense. There is no way that the person we are to meet was just told to help us. that would be ridiculous. Who do you work for? why have you come to speak with us?"

sense motive: 13

Nauthiz'Ull (sub-Chris)  d20+3=7 d20+13=29 d20+3=17
Wednesday August 24th, 2005 4:09:18 PM
Sense Motive: 7 (on the man meeting us)

Assuming that Nauth can tell nothing, he will begin to look around the church. If this is not our real contact, somebody nearby will be looking very nervous and/or watching us quite intently. (spot: 29)If he sees someone else watching us or looking quite uncomfortable with what is going on over here he will sense motive (roll: 17) on that person and then warn his companions to "guard their tongues, for this man may be an imposter."

Toros  d20+3=19
Thursday August 25th, 2005 2:30:08 AM
Sensing the sceptism arised among his friends about the man, Toros also relies on his senses to evaluate the motives of the stranger. (Sense Motive 19)

Ashalan 
Thursday August 25th, 2005 9:53:04 AM
Ash is content to let the others handle this meeting, when the time comes he will go where he is needed.

In the meantime he tries as best he can to clear his head as to meditate on the teachings of Alemi (quietly as to not upset the local followers fo Gargul), and the arcane magicks Ash believes his God has bestowed upon him.

What's Up? Part 2 (DM JohnP)  d20+5=20
Thursday August 25th, 2005 9:57:34 AM
Jab looks back and forth between the various people who are questioning him. "I was outside in the market and this man ... uh .. who I didn't know, came up and paid me 5 gold to come in here and meet you. He said that you'd be dressed all in black."

The thin man pauses to gauge the effects of his words. "That you'd need a local guide, I guess is what he was thinking. I'm ... uh ... familiar with some of the ... ah ... lesser known, shall we say, parts of the city. And he said that you'd pay me for my help."

While the man is speaking, Xenia and Nauthiz'Ull are scanning the room.
Nauthiz'Ull and Xenia Highlight to display spoiler: {You spot an old man dressed in robes who is standing near the entrance to the western lobe, where the Death aspect of Gargul is venerated. The man is trying to watch the group and Jab without being too obvious, but both of you noticed him looking several times.}

Nauthiz'Ull Highlight to display spoiler: {The man is dressed in vestments dedicated to Gargul. Specifically, vestments typically worn by senior priests of the Temple.}

Pressed for information about the man who hired him, Jab continues speaking. "The man was about your height," gesturing towards the silent Appolo, "and was dressed in regular clothes. Ummm ... older but not gray. And he didn't give me any codeword or anything else."

Toros Highlight to display spoiler: {The man seems nervous and you have the impression that he is making up his story as he goes.}

Toros  d20=8
Thursday August 25th, 2005 10:52:41 AM
There is something I do not like with this guy... He seems to be too nervous and the story he is telling has no beginning or end, it is as if he expects us to complete it, provide information to him... He mentions about our dress but nothing about the prayer books... Toros whispers to himself and Xenia.

Then he turns to the guy and makes up his own story: "OK. You may be right, but in addition to our black dresses we were also told to get one of these sea shells as a code symbol for courage. But you have never mentioned about it. How do you expect us to believe you?" Saying these, Toros shows the seashell that symbolizes Domi, which he just bought brom the open Bazaar. (Bluff 8+2=10) He believes the man does not know about the prayer books and hopes he will make his lies explicit in an attempt to cover his previous lies or lack of information about the code symbol.

And if he is not the right guy, where is the right guy, in trouble? Maybe they are all in trouble? Thinking this, Toros starts to get angry to the man. He just needs one little mistake from him and then... right or fight for a payback...

Xenia, how do you feel about this man... Toros whispers again to think something else.

Xenia  d20+1=16
Thursday August 25th, 2005 12:04:06 PM
... old man in robes ... standing near the death aspect of gargul ... i think he's our guy ... Within the dark folds of her hood Xenia whispers to Toros.

"Easy, easy, easy, Toros," the dark rogue says out loud. "Maybe you weren't told everything. We weren't told about some of this stuff either. Like, you know, paying you."

... i think the key here to find out what this guy is after. why he's here and maybe who sent him. keep your friends close. but keep your enemies closer, you know. lets use him ...

"Listen, looks like we're both stuck in this mess together. Maybe we can help each other out. We want to get this deal done. But we got ourselves a bit of a problem. The guy you're talking about. Sounds like the guy we need to find. The Red Cloaks outside look like they're trying to find him too. We need you to take us to where you met him."

"Problem is, I think we're being watched. *Don't* look around. We want whoever it is to get comfortable. To get the idea that we're not onto him. That way, maybe we can trip him up. So here's what you're going to do, alright? You're going to say the code word that we were expecting. Say it loud, alright? This is the code phrase, 'Chapter 6, tales of the early days of Gargul. My favorite.' Alright. Got it? Can you say that?"

Rolls and Actions
Bluff 16 (For the Lie)

Garrett 
Thursday August 25th, 2005 1:12:46 PM
As it appears that everyone else is under the same assumption as Garrett and seem to be handling it rather well, Garrett sits quietly and waits until this plays out.

Appolo 
Thursday August 25th, 2005 1:20:29 PM
Appolo looks at the man.After listening to the others he speaks.Thinking they don't ahve time to play games,he speaks up close and personal with the man.He is polite but forceful."I think you have the wrong group my friend.As we don't need a guide and you don't know who hired you or what we are doing.Now please leave us be.We are here to pray for the soul of our friend.I suggest you leave."Appolo moves slightly revealing the hilt of his sword resting his hand on it"Like I said friend you got the wrong group.Now leave us."

Nauthiz'Ull (sub-chris) 
Thursday August 25th, 2005 1:21:49 PM
Nauth observes the Senior priest watching the group as best he can, and feels quite sure that this is who we need to be speaking to.

Unsure if anyone else noticed the Senior priest watching the group, Nauth decides to make sure that this meeting does not go up in smoke due to this interloper.

"Quite right Xenia" Nauth says quietly. "He should leave here quickly though, so as not to bring danger upon himself. We should meet him at another location in an hour or so, after we draw our spy out into the open. You know the area Xenia, pick a bar and have him meet us there in 2 hours. That way we can share what we all know after we take care of our immediate problem."

Ashalan 
Thursday August 25th, 2005 3:54:19 PM
Rather confused by the mixed up signals the rest of his group is sending Ash keeps his tobgue still, afraid he would undermine their obviously complex manuverings with this odd fellow.

Uriel  d20+7=16
Friday August 26th, 2005 12:40:57 AM
Uriel is unsure of this man and tries to sense evil in him. He will also begin to scan the room for other obvious people that might be looking to make contact with them.

Spot:16

What's Up? You, that's what!  d20+2=6 d20=17 d20=11
Friday August 26th, 2005 7:49:57 AM
The is growing increasingly uneasy about Jab, doubting that he is their contact here in the Temple of Gargul.

Toros suspects the thin man and shares his suspicions with Xenia using the Message spell. Then the liontaur spins a story about using the seashell of Domi to recognize one another. "Seashell? Uhhh ... the man never gave one to me."

After listening to Toros' concerns, Xenia tries to manipulate the man. Nauthiz'Ull adds to Xenia's suggestion. The remainder of the group is watching the interaction.

The thin man is starting to look a little confused when Appolo makes a more forceful suggestion, hinting at dire results if Jab doesn't clear off.
DM JohnP - made an Intimidate check for you

The thin man scrambles back and springs to his feet. "Umm ... you know ... I think that I was hired to meet another group all dressed in black. Ahhh ... sorry for the confusion." He crouches to pick up his prayer rug and moves away quickly, not even bothering to roll it. He heads out the entrance and out of the sight of the group.

Garrett 
Friday August 26th, 2005 8:21:11 AM
"Well, at least he's gone. I would have preferred to know who he was working for, but he appeared to be little more than someone's idiot lackey fishing for info. Perhaps we can now get down to the business at hand."

Nauthiz'Ull 
Friday August 26th, 2005 8:23:23 AM
Nauth opens his prayer book back up to chapter 6 and after a few moments looks over to where the senior priest is and hopefully awaits his arrival.

"Anyone else see the priest watching that interaction closely? I would believe that to be our real contact."

Xenia 
Friday August 26th, 2005 8:36:58 AM
oooooo ... Men! From within her hood, the flame headed girl rogue glares at Appolo. Always tryin' to fix things by hitting 'em.

"Anyone here fixed up to make nice to him?" Xenia asks, while holding the stupid book so that it's real plain that she's on CHAPTER S I X!!! "I don't think I'm up to talkin' nice right now."

Appolo 
Friday August 26th, 2005 1:49:33 PM
Appolo smiles handsomely at Xenia"Oh don't worry about that fool.He was just a flunky.Whoever he works for will reveal themselves sooner or later.Preist well don't look everyone just read your prayer book.When he's ready he'll come over."Appolo turns to Chapter 6."Everyone just be cool and wait."

Ashalan 
Friday August 26th, 2005 2:28:01 PM
Ash nods and grins at Appolo.

"I agree with the pirate here, all things come to those who wait. Patience is the order of the day... as it is most days."

Taking a moment to get more comfy on his rug, Ash continues. "Let us see what will happen"

Toros 
Friday August 26th, 2005 10:24:32 PM
Toros watches the man get lost without knowing what to say and think behind him. But he remembers Belkior, wasnt he the Halfling who told them to come here, wear black and read Gargul. What he would do, if he would be here?!? where is Belkior, what is he doing, would he be just enjoying himself, sitting on his comfortable coach and having his favourite diet meal on his lap top, getting ready to take a nice nap... And we... We are just sitting on this unflying rug.., oh I found another loose thread by the way, come here you little... Were these just his thoughts whispered to himself or Xenia. Even Toros is not sure now. ...OK, now, Appolo, lets be cool and wait, I can do that...

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