The Next Morning (DM JohnP) Wednesday June 28th, 2006 11:21:50 AM DM JohnP - My apologies for missing last night's post. Lightning hit very close to the house and the only casualty seems to be my cable modem. So no posts from home for the next couple days.
Everyone sits about and continues to discuss what they've learned so far. Well, except for Edmund, who seems to be suffering from cabin-fever or something similar from his studies. He's simply eager to rush out and start fighting.
Mira and Conner suggest that they might be able to get some information from the Registrar due to their experience with the bureaucracy.
Mira leaned over to ask Arm about his vision following the sip from the chalice. The bard relates what he experienced, but it doesn't shed much light on today's dilemna.
Kadaz, Shadow and Thar make plans to try to make contact with the Constables. Maybe asking about in the Market will provide some leads. Kadaz also warns about travelling in small groups because there's a possibility that the cult will try to take revenge.
When they step outside to go to the neighbourhood tavern, the party sees a heavily loaded gnome walking up the street towards them. Right behind is Ash, the druid admiring a new tattoo applied to his arm.
The little gnome sets down the bag that is nearly larger than himself. Looking up at the party, he pulls out a list and begins to rapidly read the words written there.
Everyone stands there looking at Ash before they invite him to follow them to Sampsons. The tavern is fairly quiet tonight without much excitement. After a satisfying meal, some ale and quiet conversation, everyone makes their way back to the apartment. Some are earlier than others, though, and some people may choose to go for a walk.
The night is quiet except for Arm who awakens following a dream.
Arm's Dream (DM JohnP) Wednesday June 28th, 2006 11:33:05 AM
Arm only - Highlight to display spoiler: {Arm drifts through a grey featureless area. He isn't flying but he feels that this space has no directions - neither up nor down, let alone right versus left.
After what might have been an instant or an eternity, Arm realizes that he is walking along a fog-shrouded alley. The tops of the neighboring buildings are lost in the fog and he cannot see either end of the alley. The only sound that Arm can hear is a slow, rhythmic knocking.
When he rounds a gentle bend in the alley, Arm can see that the source of the knocking is a door blowing in the wind. When he approaches it, he can see a short hallway and stairs leading up. He moves to step through the doorway.
Instead of the hallway, Arm finds himself in a darkened tunnel. A glimmer of light is ahead while there is only inky darkness behind. When he moves down the tunnel, it opens into an immense space that seems boundless. Ahead of him, Arm can see rows of grey-clad people prostrate upon the gritty stone floor. Now there is no sound except for the grit beneath his feet as he walks through the rows of featureless people. Each is shrouded in a robe that hides their faces and form so that he cannot tell anything about them. Eventually he comes to a gap or space that he knows is for him. Arm briefly looks up towards the ... altar or whatever ... ahead of him.
Then he awakens.}
Thar ail Baerer Wednesday June 28th, 2006 11:42:46 AM
Before they go to Sampson's, Thar looks into the package from the Catacombs to see what they've bought. (OOC - Is this how magic items we've bought get delivered?).
At Sampson's, Thar eats a light meal, as he is getting 'stir-crazy' from being cooped up. He prefers the forest and outside world, vs. being in a structure for a long period.
"Let's get moving soon, as the longer we wait, the more time that harlot has to escape us. Kadaz, I'll follow your lead, and your plan sounds reasonable to me." he adds, with anger in his voice towards the Lady.
Shadow Wednesday June 28th, 2006 12:32:43 PM
Feeling his companion's anxiousness, Shadow also orders a light meal to get on with the evenings hunt for the two guardsman. When he finishes, "Well, whenever you all are ready, I think it is time to see if we can find those two and see what they can remember."
Ash Wednesday June 28th, 2006 1:54:36 PM
After a short meal of salad (for Ash) and Rare meat (for Shelya), Ash and Shelya go for a short walk around the neighbourhood, hoping to find a small park in which to relax.
Edmund Wednesday June 28th, 2006 4:02:41 PM
Edmund is fairly disappointed about not going to talk things over with the nobles, whom he feels certain he would get on with swimingly. (He had been hoping for a little news of his brother as well.) Nevertheless, he remains indefatigable and, when left in the apartments, begins work on various unworkable devices. He also writes in his journal,
Still haven't found the Evil Sorceress Queen, but the rest of the fellows think they know how to track her down. I'm certain I could find easily her myself, but I wouldn't want to rain on their parade. Better to let them have the glory and what. Won't make anyone happy if I keep sweeping in to save the day.
Still, I should like to get out of these apartments, at least for a little while. Perhaps I should head over to the local weaponer and see if I can help him improve his forge, even though he promised me a 'right thrashing' if I ever saw fit to help him again after the last time. Amittedly there were a lot of turnips, but that cannot be entirely blamed upon me.
Kadaz Wednesday June 28th, 2006 4:20:12 PM
Kadaz looks in amazement at Thar, Ash and Shadow and their pitiful excuses for meals. "Come on! Eat up! Don't let a little trouble disturb your meal. Kadaz orders 2 big rare steaks and then eyes Shelya's, as if he's going to wrestle the wolf for even more meat.
After the meal Kadaz treats the party to as much ale as they can drink. It's time to celebrate!
Once back home Kadaz is staight to bed. In the morning he is very slow at getting up. He slowly walks around the common room carefully not looking at any food on the table. "I'm fine," he insists. "Must be a touch of the flu."
Birdie eyes him warily, very much aware that something is not quite right.
Conner d20+6=13 Wednesday June 28th, 2006 6:46:31 PM
The fighter sits opposite Kadaz at the table and is careful to keep his limbs well away from the hungry dwarf, but when Kadaz announces his intention to supply all the ale one can drink, Conner matches him one for one. The evening slides by and a large collection of mugs grows in front of the burly fighter.
The next morning, a sparrow perches on the window sill and announces it's ownership of all the territory between the apartment and the small alley to the west. The bird's song seems particularly piercing and despite his best attempts to ignore the noise, Conner cannot fall back asleep. His tongue is stuck to the roof of his mouth, and saliva seem to be a scarce commodity. When he sits up, a sharp pain stabs at the back of his left eye.
It's going to be a long day...
[OOC Fort save vs hangover =13]
Mira d20+8=22 Wednesday June 28th, 2006 7:33:10 PM
Mira orders the special of the day, the one the server recommends, but picks at her food, and leaves her glass of wine unfinished. She watches Arm, and worries. As the pieces of information gathered by the party start to fit together, the sorcerer wonders what part the chalice, and its contents, played in any of the magics employed by Lady Iliona and the elite magic types of the Bearers of the Chalice. (Knowledge Arcana=22) She decides to keep her worries to herself. No need to alarm Arm...or the others she thinks to herself, but the sorcerer decides not to let the bard out of her eye sight.
*****
The next morning, bright and early, she knocks on Connor's door. "Rise and shine, sleepy head!" she calls out. "We'll want to be at the Registrar's early to avoid the lineups!"
Mira doesn't wait for an answer, but returns to the hearth where water and freshly ground coffee beans are brewing.
Arm Thursday June 29th, 2006 5:57:47 AM
Arm orders the same as Mira, but picks at his food as well....the vision of walking through the desert strong in his mind and just as disturbing as when he experienced it.
As soon as he awakens from his dream the next morning, he seeks out Mira and draws her to the side. Speaking in hushed tones, he tells her of what transpired in the dream, then adds, "I sincerely hope that I have not been possessed by whatever was in that chalice. I can assure you that I have NO desire to join any type of cult...perhaps we should seek out someone at the temple to 'evaluate' me.".
Morning in the Market (DM JohnP) Tuesday July 4th, 2006 4:05:27 PM DM Apology - Sorry all. I should be back to a normal posting schedule this week. Expect to see DM posts in the afternoon / evening this week.
The morning is bright. Too bright for the likes of Conner and Kadaz. But a little discomfort is a small price to pay for an evening's celebration. Right?
As planned, Conner and Mira head towards the Registrar's office. While Conner shades his eyes and winces at the sounds of the market opening, Mira ponders what purpose the chalice might serve the cult. Maybe it's a focus for some spell, or possibly an artifact. Or maybe it's simply a container for the drink which might have been magical or alchemical. Either way, it's a mystery that will have to be solved. Particularly since it seems that the effects on Arm have persisted.
After a walk into Merchant Quarter, the two adventurers find themselves outside the Registrar's office just after the doors open. The pair enter and walk towards the counter. It's Conner's luck that the same snotty clerk isn't serving anyone. When the man sees Conner's bloodshot eyes, he gulps.
"How can I help you?," the man asks in a quavering voice. He doesn't seem to notice Mira at first.
Meanwhile, Kadaz is slowly organizing the trip to Open Palm Market. Both Thar and Edmund are eager to go. Shadow hushes the two while Kadaz looks for a floppy brimmed hat that can keep the sun from his eyes. Since this seems a little more active, Ash trails along too.
It's only a short time before most people in the market know that the group is looking for the Constables. The collection of five people, a dog and a wolf are anything but inconspicuous. Some men sporting the armbands of the Defense League looked ready to say something to Thar and the others, but then seemed to have business elsewhere.
Finally, after walking through the market for a while, the five end up standing in the centre while Edmund explains exactly what went wrong when he helped the weaponsmith.
Then a quiet voice asks from the shadows of a stall, "You're looking for us. Why do I think that you don't simply have a crime to report?"
When the group looks more closely, they see a slight halfling leaning against the stall where they would swear he hadn't been an instant before. His half-elf partner is nowhere to be seen.
"Samwell Rabbitsfoot, at your service. What did you want?"
Conner Tuesday July 4th, 2006 7:37:28 PM
Conner's head throbs with each step he takes. The blood pulsing through his veins sounds like a waterfall, and a cold sweat envelops his body as he fights off the effects of the previous night's celebration. "Never again" he thinks to himself "never again!"
It takes the fighter a moment to recall the clerk who had served him on his last trip, and despite the fog that clouds his thoughts, Conner recognizes the uneasiness in the man.
"I'm here to get official permission to erect a monument" he emphasizes the 'official' part. Before he can continue he feels a terrible pain in his belly and an upwelling of gas. "Burrrrp!" Conner knows just how foul the contents of his stomach are by the acrid taste in his mouth. The unfortunate clerk is also far more intimate with those contents as well.
"As I was saying, I want official permission to erect a monument along the river by the Open Palm Market in remembrance of those who perished. You can help, can't you?" He leans a bit closer to the man as he finishes his question.
Ash Tuesday July 4th, 2006 8:48:29 PM
Ash turns around upon hearing the halfling's voice. Looking at the figure for a second, his only reaction is a raised eyebrow and a muttered "interesting".
Shelya, not used to be surprised is a bit more vocal but a calming motion from Ash convinces her to relax. She is still not comfortable with the situation though.
Kadaz d20+1=18 Tuesday July 4th, 2006 9:44:13 PM
Kadaz shields his eyes from the too-bright sun as he quickly looks around in surprise. His pounding head has gotten better over the last hour or so, but Kadaz is by no means at his best. He glances around to make sure there isn't anyone obviously trying to evesdrop on their conversation.
"Good day, sir. We are the group that uncovered the death cult operating in Lady Illona's cellar. Sergeant Tomlin warned us to be on watch for retribution from the cult. Instead of waiting for them to come to us we hope to seek them out."
Kadaz pauses, a little nervous at talking to these senior officers. "The sergeant also indicated you may be involved with this investigation. We'd like to offer our assistance. We've proven our abilities and our loyalty to Plateau City. And the Sergeant can vouch for us if you have any questions."
Kadaz stops and waits nervously for a response. He looks around trying to spot the halfling's partner. (spot 18)
Thar ail Baerer d20+10=21 Tuesday July 4th, 2006 10:06:35 PM
After the first constable appears and isn't apparently accompanied, Thar nonchalantly looks around for the second constable. He remains silent and lets Kaz do the talking.
He does notice that people are staring at him with some trepedation (due to him b/n an elf) but he stares each one of them down, daring them to say something to his face.
Spot (for 2nd constable or other threats) = 21
Arm d20+4=13 d20+9=17 Wednesday July 5th, 2006 5:55:30 AM
Arm leaves the negotiation to Kadaz as well, content for the moment to stay on the lookout for trouble...his hand never far from his sword (spot=13, listen=17).
Shadow Wednesday July 5th, 2006 8:45:32 AM
OOC: anyone know what is going on with John?
DM Request (JohnP) Wednesday July 5th, 2006 1:12:20 PM
I'm still looking for updated character sheets from most of you. Please send them to petherick AT personainternet DOT com
I apologize for the posting blip last week. Modem failures at home, server problems at work and a trip out of town screwed up my posting schedule. I should be good for the remainder of this week. Once my cable modem is replaced, I should return to evening posting later this week.
The only potential problem on the horizon is my father-in-law's health. Sometime in the next couple weeks, I'll need to go to his funeral.
ADM Scott - Once we're through this investigation stage, look for portions of the module so you can take over if I have to go out of town.
Registry Office Woes ... and The Constable (DM JohnP) Wednesday July 5th, 2006 2:03:19 PM Conner leans forwards and nearly intoxicates the clerk.
"Approval?," the clerk squeaks.
"Ahhh. That's the Planning Office. Unfortunately, yes. But I can tell you how to get there. It's upstairs ... and downstairs, too. Ahh, sometimes you can see the Official Planners meeting here on this floor. Why don't I go see if they're in the conference room."
The clerk scurries off while Conner leans against the counter. He's trying to be quiet but the other people are looking at him. Mira simply shakes her head.
Finally the clerk returns and looks at Conner.
"You're in luck. They are meeting and ... well ... wouldn't mind the interruption ... probably." He points to a corridor.
When Conner and Mira head towards the corridor, the sounds of loud 'debate' are coming from the meeting room. Conner winces slightly as one of the voice climsb higher in pitch.
"Blockhead!"
"Airy fairy nincompoop! It will never stand!"
"Hamhanded oaf! And it will never look right with that base!"
"Cretin! Those ... thing-a-ma-jiggy's ... just give birds a place to nest!"
"Toadstool! What's wrong with that?"
When Conner looks in the door, he sees an elderly male elf looming across a table at a craggy female dwarf. A tired looking gnome is watching both of them. All three of them look at Conner.
"What do you want?," the elf asks in a scratchy voice that makes Conner's brain hurt.
"He's here to tell you that you don't know beans about design!," the dwarf replies.
++++++
Despite everyone looking, the halfling's partner is nowhere to be seen. The little Constable seems to weigh Kadaz's words.
"Ahh. Gormley thought that you'd show up. So ... you want to help. How about you start helping by buying me some brunch? There's a nice place not too far from here."
The halfling starts walking to the east, towards Guild Quarter. He comes to a small restaurant with seating outside on the street, close to the west edge of the Open Palm Market.
"Nice place, run by good people. Serves the best crepes and pancakes in town. Almost as good as my mother's, in fact. Want to join me?"
Rabbitsfoot plops himself down on a stool at the table closest to the market. There are chairs for everyone.
"What exactly are you proposing to do in way of helping Gormley and I?"
Kadaz Wednesday July 5th, 2006 2:53:08 PM
Kadaz looks at the halfling curiously. This is an odd setting for an interview. Well, he's the constable. Kadaz sits down by Rabbitsfoot and orders pancakes. Come to think of it - some bland food might sit well in his stomache.
"My fellows and I are very unhappy with recent happenings in Plateau City - starting with the idiots in the Defense League and then Illonia's followers. We'd like to help set things right. We followed our leads and they led to Lady Illona's. She escaped through the sewer and we were unable to follow. We want to finish the job by apprehending her but aren't sure where to look."
Kadaz pauses and looks at his fellows around the table. "There are 6 of us. We are willing to run down leads, go into places where the Guard may not want to enter, and fight those who would harm Plateau City. I understand that you and Gormley have better contacts than us. But with more helpers you will be able to cover more territory, run down more leads. And if you come across minor problems that should be corrected but would otherwise be a distraction to you we can handle them. And it never hurts to have some strong arms at your back."
Kadaz turns away from the halfling and concentrates on the pancakes. He slips one of his pancakes onto the ground for Birdie. Birdie sniffs at it and ignores it. He wonders where the beef is.
Edmund d20+9=29 Wednesday July 5th, 2006 5:09:39 PM
"...and so that's how we managed to remove the turnips from his ears. It really wasn't that big of a deal, you see."
Having thus finished his explanation, Edmund sets off with Kadaz, Ash, Shadow, and Thar. He talks the whole way there about nothing in particular. If they do not answer him, he doesn't notice.
Upon meeting the strange halfling fellow, and sitting down for some pancakes, Edmund chooses his moment and launches into another verbal barrage whilst the others are eating and probably unable or unwilling to interrupt him too frequently.
His hope, of course, is to convince the constable to not only accept their offer of assistance, but additionally secure their pledge that anything found in the progress would be considered rightly belonging to the party. (Diplomacy=29)
"Yes, so we're here to help you, old bean. Going to seek and destroy, find and dispell, hunt and annihilate, hide and go seek--the whole ball of wax, if you know what I mean. Can't ask for more then that, what? Surely, you'll find it useful. In fact, you might even find it relaxing. A chance for you to sit back, kick your feet up, and let us do some of the work--provided, of course, we also reap the benefits. You're well off enough that you surely don't need anything which these vagabonds have, anyway. Shouldn't need to stoop to that, you, with your mighty fortresses, well-crafted armour, and implacable defenses, what?"
Edmund smiles good-naturedly, raising his glass a bit to the halfling constable.
(OOC: Sorry about the missed post yesterday. I was out of town, wearing a red uniform, waving a musket about.)
Thar ail Baerer Wednesday July 5th, 2006 9:22:18 PM
After Thar takes a seat and again orders a light meal, he asks the Constable "We have been trying to look at the local Registrar's office to see the Lady's records, but were told they were sealed. They could give us a lot of leads towards where she could be hiding out. We'd greatly appreciate you helping us look at the records."
Seeing that Kadaz is now looking less hungover, Thar smiles and is glad he was able to get healthy naturally, without needing alternative measures to recover, like the old elven paste that Thar used to have to drink after his long nights out, as a youngster.
Conner d20-2=11 Wednesday July 5th, 2006 11:09:58 PM Burrrp! The fighter brings a fist up to cover his mouth. Conner winces when the half-elf addresses him.
Lifting his head, and squaring his shoulders the tattooed fighter moves through the doorway and into the room. "My name is Conner, uh, Conner Baelson, and I wish to have a bit of space to put up a monument to those in the trade quarter who perished as a result of the recent catastrophe." Conner looks at his boot clad feet, then back at the Planning Officers in front of him, before continuing. "A bit of ground in the wee park by the river off Open Palm Market." He continues, "A simple stone monument, polished, to reflect the river, and the names of each of the victims from the Trade Quarter inscribed in rows. Master Thurl done the carving. I got the names, all the names." The big man looks away from the dwarf, the gnome, and the half-elf, and his voice cracks as he repeats hoarsely, "all the names..."
Diplomacy=11
Mira d20+5=17 d20+2=21 Wednesday July 5th, 2006 11:24:34 PM
Mira trails after the civil servant as he threads through the maze of the public building. She cringes when she hears the bickering, but has to stiffle a laugh when she spots the source.
The sorcerer gets serious when Conner makes his heartfelt request, then adds her voice to his petition. (Aid Another/Diplomacy=17) Standing at the fighter's elbow, the green-eyed woman says, "there are many in the quarter, and beyond who support my friend's endevour. Master Thurl himself is carving the monument. Conner has paid the Registry for the names of the citizenry who perished. The City Guard have endorsed the project and provided the names of those who died in service. The clerics ask for gestures of kindness. Now is the time for remembrance and reconciliation." Mira tries to gauge the mood of the planners (Sense Motive=21). "Can we count on the city's support? Will you grant dispensation to a small plot of land for the monument?"
(OOC: Wrapping up a purchase in the Catacombs. Character sheet this weekend?-Carla)
Shadow Thursday July 6th, 2006 1:30:03 AM
Shadow uncertain of what they will actually accomplish listens intently and tries to pick up what the others get out of the halfling. He will join in the meal because of his smaller meal earlier.
ADM stuff Thursday July 6th, 2006 1:30:45 AM
OOC: Edmund, I still need you to post what your email is for me. Thanks, Scott (ADM)
Edmund (e-mail address) Thursday July 6th, 2006 3:18:49 AM
OOC: Scott, I posted it here on June 28th, marked private to DMs--thought you were able to see those, sorry! Here it is again: spcooper@oakland.edu
Arm Thursday July 6th, 2006 5:54:20 AM
Realizing that the gruff little dwarf in the room is not very dissimilar to a certain dwarf they are well acquainted with, Arm pinches himself to keep from laughing aloud as they overhear the exchange. Smiling admiringly at Mira's soulful exchange, he realizes that he has little left to add, and is content to nod in a friendly manner at the ruling group, even though he picked up on a return of Conner's grief.
OOC: Sorry for yesterday's post...I forgot which group I was with :-s
Things to Say and Do (DM JohnP) Thursday July 6th, 2006 3:59:44 PM
The elf, dwarf and gnome look up at Conner when he proposes the construction of a monument. Mira's words further spark their interest.
"Excellent idea! Just the sort of public philanthropy this town needs," says the elven man.
"What exactly do you have in mind?," asks the dwarf.
The gnome continues where the dwarf left off. "Do you have plans and drawings? Have the plans been stamped by a engineer or architect licensed to practice in Plateau City? It's all well and good for you to plan something like this but there's an official process, of course. If you give me a minute, I can go to the Planning Office and get you the forms that you need. You'll have to get them filed in triplicate and notarized, of course. Then they'll be subject to review by my esteemed colleagues here, of course. You haven't started work on this already, have you?"
The elf and dwarf are slightly more observant than the gnome so they notice how the vein in the side of Conner's head starts to throb. Both try to divert his attention.
"Ahh, Trade Quarter you said?," asks the elf.
"Who is making this monument for you?," the dwarf asks.
"Endorsed by the Guard, you mentioned?," the elf continues.
"I'm sure it will be structurally sound if you get any competent dwarf to do the work. You did, didn't you?" finishes the dwarf.
Arm simply stands back out of Conner's swing radius.
+++++
The halfling looks up when the elven waiter comes by and orders his food. "The usual, but a triple stack of pancakes. Feeling a little hungrier than usual."
The waiter looks to everyone else and takes their orders.
While they're waiting, the halfling listens to the party. He nods when Kadaz, Edmund and Thar explain what they want. He was about to reply when the waiter and a hulking half-orc busboy return with the orders. The waiter sets down everyone's food while the busboy holds a tray with two covered platters and several jugs, one of which is steaming. All of this is set down in front of Rabbitsfoot by the waiter with a flourish.
When the covers are removed, one platter contains a high stack of thin rolled pancakes covered with fruit sauces and whipped cream while the other has what looks like four fried eggs, a rasher of bacon, a half dozen small sausages and toast. Rabbitsfoot then pours some syrup over the pancakes and ladles a generous serving of some kind of red sauce on his meat and eggs. There's still a couple covered containers that the halfling hasn't used yet.
Then he starts eating with gusto. Everyone decides that speaking is worthless until the halfling slows down a little bit. Kadaz, in fact, has to look away when he starts dabbing the toast into the eggs to make the yolks run around the bacon and sausages. Shadow simply wonders where all this food is going to go. If he ate like this, there's no way he could climb or do anything remotely athletic.
After the halfling has eaten most of the pancakes, he looks around the table.
"So, you found out that Gormley and I had ... ahh ... been working with the records at the Registrar's office. Smart, really."
He pauses while the waiter starts removing the empty dishes. When he finishes, people realize that Rabbitsfoot now has some papers in his hands.
"Here," and he holds the papers out to Thar. "Hold these so they don't get dirty. Egg is really difficult to get out of these papers. I'll take them back when I'm done."
Rabbitsfoot continues talking while mopping up the remnants of whipped cream, syrup and fruit sauce with the last pancake.
"Interesting idea. Of course, it would have to be strictly informal. Gormley and I couldn't share official records or information with you. But if you happened to ... come across information in this matter, it would be appreciated."
By now, Rabbitsfoot has finished the pancakes and is wiping up the egg yolks with toast. Finally, he pours some sort of hot beverage from the steaming carafe into a mug. The waiter returns now and clears everything away. Now that you've seen him several times, there's something about the waiter ...
Shadow Thursday July 6th, 2006 4:59:28 PM
Shadow is watching the goings on and he notices something about the waiter, so he watches him out of the corner of his eye. (He is trying to determine if he has seen the man before or what it is that has his interest up.)
He thinks the halfling might be a major resource in their tracking down of the rest of the cult. He will try and get the papers to scan what is on them, but will let one of the others that might have more knowledge look at them closer.
Kadaz d20+1=19 Thursday July 6th, 2006 6:49:52 PM
The recovery Kadaz has made in the past hour is destroyed by the sight of the halfling eating enough food for a family of 6. Kadaz concentrates on nibbling at his pancakes while trying to convince his stomache to settle down again. But an accidental view of brown sausage and white eggs in a swirling mixture of red sauce and yellow yolk .... He tears his eyes away from that unholy mess and swallows, managing to keep everything down.
Birdie, turning up his nose at the pancakes Kadaz offered, creeps under the table to Rabbitsfoot's side of the table and whines a bit, hoping for some bacon or sausage, or maybe both.
Kadaz listens to Rabbitsfoot's offer. "Thank you. That sounds acceptable. We will be glad to share information we uncover. And I trust that you will be able to point us towards productive lines of inquiry."
Kadaz pauses to consider practicalities. "Can you give us a way to contact you if we uncover something interesting? In turn, you can send messages to us at Sampsons in the Trade Quarter where we take most of our meals. And do you have a suggesting for our next step?"
"And finally, thank you for introducing us to this fine eating establishment." Kadaz's slightly greenish face makes it clear he is just trying be polite when he says this.
Kadaz stops eating (after finishing almost an entire pancake) and looks around to see if anyone is taking notice of them. He finally notices the waiter and examines him more closely. (spot 19)
Ash Thursday July 6th, 2006 8:24:19 PM
Ash just sits listening to the discussion,rubbing Shelya absently behind her ears.
Thar ail Baerer Thursday July 6th, 2006 9:09:18 PM
As Thar sits watching the Constable eat, he says "Thank you and I appreciate any help you can give. How do you recommend we get to the "unsealed" records at the Registers office?" He glances at the papers, trying to read what they say but not letting the waiter or any other strangers get a glimpse of them.
Once that is finished, he gets up and hands the papers to Shadow, as he notices the waiter behaving oddly. He walks over to him, and stumbles into the waiter, hopefully making a huge mess and knocking both himself and the waiter to the ground.
As they lay on the floor, he'll mutter "I'm sorry for falling into you, but you looked like you were someone I should get to know better, as you seem very very interested in our table."
Conner Thursday July 6th, 2006 10:56:11 PM
Conner wipes a thick hand across his brow as the pint-sized planners pepper him with questions. "Aye Torkelson's a dwarf. He's the stonemason over on Purse Street who's been working on the monument. Yeah, Sergeant Tomin gave me some names, men and women of the Guard. The other names, I paid for them. Paid that scrawny little..." Conner looks over his shoulder to see if the clerk from the Registry is still around before continuing, "paid the clerk to give me the names, and filled out papers. Lots of papers."
The fighter looks kind of perplexed. Like he doesn't know what else to say.
Mira d20+8=22 Thursday July 6th, 2006 11:02:09 PM
Mira steps back out of the room, and looks for the clerk who had previously been so...helpful...to her and Conner.
If she finds the clerk, she asks him if he can help her get some more records. As she fumbles with her purse, she continues, "public records mind...unsealed...about the affairs of the recently deceased Mr. deMontmorency and his wife the lady Iliona." (Diplomacy=22)
Edmund Thursday July 6th, 2006 11:54:48 PM
Edmund doesn't recognise the waiter, or notice anything particularly odd about him. He does notice the others acting a little oddly, and is especially surprised by Thar's outrageous behaviour.
"Good heavens, Thar! Roughing up waiters now? Not all Elves are members of crazy brain-eating cults, dontcha know."
Looking mournfully at his empty tea cup, Edmund occupies himself by rocking comically on his chair as he listens to the what else the constable has to say.
Arm Friday July 7th, 2006 6:03:04 AM
Grateful that Mira has removed herself from the brewing storm, Arm follows her into the other room. As she searches for coins, he stays her hand a fishes a few out of one of his own pockets for the clerk.
All Sorts of Interesting Paper (DM JohnP) Friday July 7th, 2006 1:05:55 PM Conner replies to the questions of the Planning Office. He's a little confused by the bureaucratic concerns of the gnome but at least the other two seem helpful. Just when he looks for support, he sees that the other two have wandered off somewhere.
The dwarf and elf nod at his responses. The dwarven woman, in particular, smiles when Conner mentions Torkelson's name.
"Well ...," the elf starts.
"I suppose some kind of temporary permission ...," continues the dwarf.
They both turn and look at the gnome who was starting to look a little disturbed by the thought of bypassing the review process.
"Greengrass-Farminghammer, be a nice fellow and run upstairs for a couple copies of Form 1213-AR (Revision 2A) - Request for Temporary Art Display Permit," asks the elf in a soothing voice. "They should be filed with the other permit requisition forms in the second large black filing cabinet."
The gnome slides off his chair with a defeated expression on his face. Once he leaves the room the elf and dwarf continue speaking.
"How long should we make the temporary permit good for?," asks the elf.
"How about ... twenty years? Sound good to you?," the dwarven woman asks Conner.
+++++
In the sidwalk cafe, the others are in a state of mild disgust and nausea. Not so much that they don't notice the waiter, however.
When Kadaz asks about potential places of inquiry, the halfling Constable pauses from wiping his chin.
"Well, if some people were able to learn about what buildings Lady de Montmorency still holds, they might start looking at those places."
While he's replying, Thar and Shadow are trying to inconspicuously peek at the papers that Rabbitsfoot asked Thar to hold. They see that the top sheet is a list of addresses within Plateau City, with the mansion in Wealthy Quarter at the top. There's some addresses in the Hindquarter, Trade Quarter and a couple each in Outcast and Nightmare Quarters. Knowledge Local DC 15 - Highlight to display spoiler: {The addresses in the Trade Quarter, Hindquarter and Outcast Quarter are small apartment buildings. The addresses in Nightmare Quarter are tenements.}
Rabbitsfoot looks up and asks Thar, "May I have my papers back?"
When Thar gets up from the table, the waiter neatly moves out of his way when he stumbles. The waiter helps Thar to his feet. Ash and Edmund watch this with amusement.
Rabbitsfoot smiles when he watches this little exchange.
"I see that you've met Gormley. Master of disguise, is our Mr. Gormley. He thought that I might need protection from you lot so he insisted on this little masquerade. Say hello, Gormley."
The waiter pulls up a chair and smiles. "Hello, Gormley," he says in a monotone voice. You get the impression that it's an old routine with these two. And the more astute realize that he's actually a half-elf.
Then he continues in a more lively, lilting voice. "Why don't you talk to the clerics and mages who were called in to the mansion? You know how those types are," and he makes a drinking gesture, "Can't stop talking after a drink or few."
Rabbitsfoor speaks up now. "Leave messages for us with Sergeant Tomin. We can either pick them up or he can run them to us. Shall we go, Mr. Gormley?"
The half-elf smiles and stands. "Certainly, Mr. Rabbitsfoot. Shall I summon Bearus to lift you from your chair?"
In response, the halfling levers himself from the chair and makes a dismissive gesture at Gormley. The two start walking away towards the Market.
That's when all five realize that the half-orc is really the waiter. And he's looking for payment for Rabbitsfoot's breakfast.
Thar ail Baerer Friday July 7th, 2006 10:01:42 PM
Getting himself up and wiping the food off of his clothes, Thar pays the waiter for Rabbitfoot's breakfast, while smiling at his own mess.
After sitting down, he says in a low voice, "I think that we have some good leads now. We can start one of two ways. We could start investigating those addresses that we saw or secondly, question the clerics and mages that were called in to the mansion. What do you all think we should do? Due to the risks, I don't think we should split up, and should stay together as a team."
Edmund Friday July 7th, 2006 11:14:58 PM
Edmund sits up quickly and chimes in when asked for his advice.
"Oh, question the clerics and mages, to be sure. At least, that's something I can be of use in. As for investigating... I think we should wait for everyone else before we start poking our heads where it might be dangerous to poke them."
Kadaz d20+1=9 Friday July 7th, 2006 11:42:29 PM
As Rabittsfoot and Gormley leave Kadaz thanks them. "I think this is the beginning of a beautiful friendship."
Kadaz also thanks Thar for paying for the halfling. Kadaz takes care of everyone else, sure that he is paying the lesser amount.
"First, we find the others. Then we decide together what to do. Did any of you reconize what was on the list? I'm sure Mira will know, she's a font of information. And we will have to be on our best behavior when we track down the clerics - again a task for Mira." During the last sentence Kadaz is staring at Edmund, afraid what will happen if he is sent in to negotiate a delicate point. (knowledge local 9)
Shadow Saturday July 8th, 2006 5:26:15 PM
"Well then, let's go find the others." Shadow agrees as the group leaves the cafe. He is unsure of where to start except, "Should we just wait back at the apartment? They should return there soon."
Thar ail Baerer Sunday July 9th, 2006 10:26:50 AM
Thar will follow Shadow out of the tavern and say "Yes, let's go back to the apartment. Going out again as a team sounds like our best option."
Conner Sunday July 9th, 2006 11:22:33 PM
"Aye," says Conner nodding. "20 years would be a good start."
Mira Sunday July 9th, 2006 11:23:32 PM
Mira keeps a lookout for the registry clerk, in order that she might press her point. (See previous post.) She signals Arm to put his money away.
Arm Monday July 10th, 2006 5:54:47 AM
Arm grimaces a bit, then aquieces to Mira's wishes. Waiting around, he glances curiously into the other room, straining to hear any signs of bones breaking, skulls cracking, and the like. Hearing nothing, he takes it as a good sign and resorts to the waiting game with Mira.
Here and There (DM JohnP) Monday July 10th, 2006 1:45:29 PM
In teh Registrar's office, Conner sits and waits for the return of the gnome. After what seems like an interminable wait, the small bureaucrat finally returns to the room. Planner Greengrass-Farminghammer looks up at Conner and points to the thick sheaf of papers.
"I took the liberty of beginning to fill the form out. You'll need to sign ... or make your mark on the document. Here. Here. Over here. Here again. Here. There. Twice on this page. Once more. And, nearly the end, here. Then, once more here."
Then he passes the paper to the elf and dwarf who rapidly scrawl their signatures in the appropriate places.
Finally, Conner looks at the completed document that the gnome is carefully stacking. Teh gnome looks up at Conner.
"We'll make copies for our records here. Come back in a couple days for your copies that you should take to Thorkelson."
All three planning officials now look at Conner, obviously expecting him to leave.
Outside in the main room, Mira and Arm are looking for the clerk. They spot him behind the counter, keeping his head down and appearing to work industriously. But his sideways glances indicate that he's watching them. When the pair move closer, he picks up his materials and prepares to move away.
"Please. Let me be. If I let you look at those documents, it'll be my job."
He seems honestly frightened so Mira and Arm let him pass for now. Having nothing else to do here, the pair round up Conner and prepare to return to the apartment.
+++++
At the sidewalk cafe, Thar opens up his beltpouch to cover the cost of Rabbitsfoot's brunch. He and Shadow share the list of addresses and begin a discussion of where to start looking. DM Note - Anyone with any ranks in Local Knowledge has, at a minimum, what is included on the Plateau City pages.
Strangely, Edmund voices the need for caution when investigating this matter. Kadaz also suggests meeting up with the other three before investigating, both to divide up the work and to ensure that everyone knows what is occurring.
After Kadaz pays for everyone else's meals, the five head back to the apartment to wait for Mira and the others.
+++++
Finally, shortly before lunchtime, everyone is at the apartment. The adventurers can share what they've learned and organize teh afternoon's search. As suggested by Edmund, they could start investigating the addresses on the list from Rabbitsfoot. Or they could go to the Mages Guild and to the two temples called in to investigate the mansion.
Ash Monday July 10th, 2006 7:40:32 PM
Ash, who has been quiet throughout to the point that people would be forgiven for assuming that he was clueless as to what was happening, suggests that it would be better to leave the investigation of the addresses in question until after speaking to the mages and clerics. While saying this, he absently scratches behind Shelya's ears.
Shelya merely wags her tail in enjoyment of the scratch she is getting behind her ears.
Conner Monday July 10th, 2006 11:57:24 PM
"I know how to read and write," grumbles the fighter ominously at the gnome's condescension. Taking the implement of writing from the planner, he goes through the laborious process of writing out his full name in all the places indicated by Greengrass-Farminghammer.
"I'll be back," he says, when he is dismissed with the promise that the required paperwork will be ready in a few days.
On exiting the room, he signals Arm and Mira and heads for the door.
Mira Tuesday July 11th, 2006 12:06:17 AM
With a shrug of her shoulders at the clerk's strange behavior, Mira follows Connor out of the building. As they walk down the street, she falls back behind the fighter to walk beside Arm. Looping her arm through his, she asks the bard his opinion on the clerk's strange behavior.
"I wonder who has him so frightened. They are public records, and unsealed at that!" Mira listens to what Arm has to say, and adds her two coppers, "I wonder if Lady Iliona has friends inside the civil service who would try to cover things up for her?"
+++++
Back at the apartment she listens to what the others have to say, and shares her information with them in turn.
"We can see the clerics and such, but we shouldn't wait to long to check out the apartments. The longer we wait, the greater the chance these cultists will get away with whatever it is they are trying to do."
Kadaz Tuesday July 11th, 2006 5:41:38 AM
Kadaz agrees with Mira. "We should not let the cultists get too comfortable in a new location. So let'ts prepare for trouble and get moving." Kadaz makes sure his new armor is in place, grabs his axe, and is ready to move out the door.
Arm Tuesday July 11th, 2006 6:01:29 AM
Once again enjoying Mira's closeness, he says to her, "Aye, it is VERY strange the way he acted, and I totally share your opinion that Ilonia's talons extend far and deep in this city. It seems that this will be our most difficult assignment yet.".
Once back at the apartment, he shares his opinion, "Even though Mira and I could possibly gain much from the mages guild, I think we'd be best served by checking out the other addresses before the rats find other holes to hide in.".
Shadow Tuesday July 11th, 2006 9:29:04 AM
"I guess it is the Mages or the Clerics first, and then on to the addresses we have." Shadow looks anxiously at the rest of the group.
Edmund Tuesday July 11th, 2006 3:43:16 PM
Having already given his opinion, Edmund accompanies everyone back to the apartments, listening to what each person says.
After each person finishes weighing in, Edmund leans back in his chair.
"So where are we off to? You know my opinion already. Now it is decision time, what. Of course, I'll go with you whichever choice you've made--wouldn't let you poor fellows sink without me. Couldn't conscience it."
More Visits (DM JohnP) Tuesday July 11th, 2006 10:06:17 PM DM Note - My posting scheduled may get screwed up (again). I will know my schedule for the end of the week tomorrow and will let people know.
Back at the apartment, everyone gets a chance to plan and propose what they want to do. Some, like Ash and Shadow want to visit the clerics and mages first. Obviously, knowledge is power and forewarned is forearmed. They know that clerics from two temples - Alemi and Gargul - visited the mansion as did scholars from the Mage's Guild.
Others, like Mira, Arm and Kadaz, think that the apartments are the more probable hiding places. And that it's better to nip this problem in the bud before it grows too vast.
The others, Conner, Edmund and Thar, don't really care. Of course, there is the possibility that Thar's cleric friend has found some information.
Of course, they might split up to cover more ground. In which case, meeting up at Samson's for supper is probably the best plan.
Arm Wednesday July 12th, 2006 5:54:39 AM
Arm glances at Mira and says, "What say we pick up a small bite before heading off? This may prove to be a long evening, and it's best we face it on a full stomach.".
Thar ail Baerer Wednesday July 12th, 2006 9:38:03 AM
As the group prepares to eat, Thar says "Well, I really don't care either way which direction we follow, but I had to vote, I'd say the apartments may work well first. If we have a few hours before we head out (while everyone is eating), I could run to my temple and see if anyone has information that could aid us. I'd like to have someone go with me, to help watch my back. We could be back in an hour or 2 and then update the group on our progress."
Conner Wednesday July 12th, 2006 10:34:20 AM
"I'll go with those that check out the apartments. Not much use for me among clerics and the like."
Shadow Wednesday July 12th, 2006 11:03:56 AM
"Well, I know that I am not suited for mages or clerics, so if we do split up I should probably go with the group headed for the apartments. I still think that it might suit us better to not split up, but that is my opinion." Shadow says to the group as they settle in for an early dinner (or late lunch, not really sure what time of day it is for sure).
Kadaz Wednesday July 12th, 2006 2:40:03 PM
Kadaz thinks about the possibilities. "We should hit the apartments first just in case the cultists are regrouping. And we shouldn't split up. Once we have followed up on the apartment leads we can visit the clerics - they probably aren't leaving town soon."
Kadaz is ready to leave. "If you want food, let's get it to go." Breakfast is still a bit of a tender & queazy memory for Kadaz.
Mira Wednesday July 12th, 2006 7:52:11 PM
"Let's just grab some street food from a vendor, Arm," Mira answers the bard. "I'm for checking out the apartments too," she volunteers, "and then Sampson's."
Ash Wednesday July 12th, 2006 9:37:33 PM
Ash shrugs, "Whatever people decide I guess. However, charge in in haste, regret in leasure."
Apartment Hunting (DM JohnP) Wednesday July 12th, 2006 10:43:34 PM
The party seems to have decided on looking at the list of apartments first, leaving visits to the Temples and Mage Guild to the morrow. Shadow and Thar still remember the locations, some being close and other farther afield. The apartment buildings in Trade Quarter are pretty familiar to the longer-term members of the party and it's the matter of minutes to walk to the closest.
While it is shabbier than the one that the party lives in, it still looks respectable. As does the second one, a bit farther away. Both of these buildings look to be occupied by erspectable folk and a quick word or two doesn't reveal any information to the contrary. The third one in Trade Quarter, though ... that's a bit more interesting. It turns out that Lady Ilonia owns the decrepit building where the three thieves were staying. It's still a dump and most of the ground floor is still awash in backed up sewer water. Hmmm, wonder what ever happened to Geordie ...
Since they're close to the north side of Trade Quarter and the river, the natural thing to do is to head over to the Hindqarter. It's immediately obvious that this is one of the place where elves are moving too. Thar and Ash both see some familiar faces among the groups of younger elves loitering in the streets. The addresses in Hindquarter turn out to be larger places filled with small one- and two-room apartments now filled beyond capacity. Obviously, the landlord was probably making a killing from the elves who were forced to shelter here.
After checking these addreses, the natural thing to do is to go through the Hindquarter to reach Outcast Quarter. Of course, that also means going through Rogue Quarter. Since it's now afternoon, there are more people stirring on the streets. Still, the sight of Conner and Kadaz are sufficient to dissuade any trouble.
Nightmare Quarter, though, lives up to its name. It's a den of necromancer and black magic shops, cut-rate alchemists and pawnshops. All of this is dominated by the Temple of Marteaus, Lord of Disease. The many dark windows of the temple seem to look out over the quarter, making everyone nervous. There are clumps of beggars around the temple, asking for alms from the worshippers and supplicants. As the party thread their way through the streets, they are repeatedly accosted by beggars covered in loathsome sores and other afflictions. Finally, they reach the first of the two addresses here. The tenement looms overhead, vacant windows allowing anyone on the street to look inside. Still, people must live here since there is a cluster lounging on the steps of the building. One, larger than the rest, hawks a repulsive chunk of green phlegm on the pavement near the party. He stares at them and everyone realizes that this is a bugbear.
"Whatta ya lookin' at?," he sneers at the party.
Arm - DC 15 Listen check - Highlight to display spoiler: {There is a rhythmic banging coming from somewhere nearby, like in your dream.}
The other tenement is on the edge of the Quarter, nearly in Rogue Quarter. This building is still horrid but at least there's shutters on all of the windows. And children playing outside, too.
Finally, after all of this walking, the party crosses the river again to Outcast Quarter. The apartment buildings here are nearly identical to the better ones in Trade Quarter - nothing fancy, but not decrepit either. Each looks to occupied by a mix of families and others although many are not of the "noble" races since this is the Outcast Quarter.
Thar takes the time to visit his shrine, speaking to the head priest again. The man takes Thar into his office to meet privately with him.
Thar only - Highlight to display spoiler: {The priest doesn't have a lot to say. Nothing, certainly, here in Outcast Quarter. But some of the worshippers live in Nightmare Quarter and have complained about being harassed in their building. When he describes the address, it's the one with the bugbear lounging outside.}
+++++
Finally, footsore from all the walking, it's time to head to Sampson's for an evening meal. The trip back over the river from Outcast Quarter seems longer, somehow.
When the party arrives at Sampson's they can easily find a place to sit. As usual, the servers recognize them and greet everyone with a smile. Even Ash, with that great big dog that follows him everywhere.
After eating and rehashing the day's events over a couple mugs of ale or glasses of wine, everyone's attention is drawn to a group entering the door from the street. The couple leading the group catch their eyes - an attractive dusky-skinned half-elf woman and a human man, although there's something funny about his neck. Five others follow them: an extremely striking human man; an armored blonde-haired amazon with a big sword; a halfling who moves funny, maybe because of those deformed legs; a simply-dressed elf who moves with economical grace; and, a bugbear. All the conversation stops when the bugbear and the deformed halfling enter the tavern. The arrivals stand there, obviously looking for someone or something.
Angus Wednesday July 12th, 2006 11:46:15 PM
The tall and impossibly thin human male with blond hair showing under his leather traveling hat enters the Tavern and takes a deep breath. "Smells good, and fun." The very attractive man takes off his hat and lets his companions enter.
When there are stares at the Bugbear he announces to all in a strong voice "Don't worry he is house broken." and he then slaps the seven foot humanoid on the back in jest with his thin arm. In a quieter voice he adds "The troubles you know."
Angus looks for a bar maid, the most attrative one and calls her over with a smile. "Do you have a table that will fit all of us. The Crimson Shields are hungry tonight."
Angus asks the barmaid "So how does the food and drink at Sampson's compare to the Giggling Ghost in the Floating City? What is your name lass?" Angus finishes with another winning smile.
Edmund Thursday July 13th, 2006 5:34:21 AM
Even Edmund is caught short by the entry of the unusual people, but only momentarily. Finding his voice again, he manages to say, "Good heavens!" rather breathlessly.
"Have you ever, in all your days..." but he trails off, realising the party probably has.
Doing his best not to stare, he nevertheless arches both eyebrows before turning away with a noncommital shrug of his shoulders.
(OOC: sorry about the missed post yesterday, I've been having some trouble with Comcast lately. Everything seems fine now.)
Arm d20+9=17 Thursday July 13th, 2006 6:10:49 AM
Arm walks along with Mira, discussing the finer points of spellcasting. As they come upon the tenament with the bugbear, Arm notices the banging noise from his dream (listen=17). Leaning in to Mira, he whispers urgently, "I can hear the sound from my dream" as he wonders if she can hear it as well.
Once they are back at Sampson's, he settles in next to Mira, glad for the chance to relax. As the oddly-matched group enters, Arm looks curiously from one to the other, and lifts his chin toward them (especially the popinjay human), and tries to get Mira's take on them.
Famina Thursday July 13th, 2006 6:54:33 AM
A gleaming, silver-armoured woman only slightly shorter than the bugbear, but a lot slimmer and less imposing, is part of the group. She has a classical, almost wild look to her, with blond braids that dangle down her back and are tied into place, a hawkish pointed nose, and sharp chin. A steel helmet with horns and a nose guard obviously marks her as a warrior of some kind, as does the very large sword she wears at her side. She walks with a swagger of confidence and strength only natural with such people. When Angus settles for a table, she pulls up a chair and looks around for others of similar uniqueness, people who will stand out from the common folk of a town. Especially armored or rather large people, who usually are the most noticeable. And anyone who by then is still staring at the bugbear she stares back at, a slight smile on her face...that of someone eager to see someone else cause trouble, so that she can bury her fist in his face...
Kadaz Thursday July 13th, 2006 6:58:00 AM
Walking all over the city takes Kadaz back to his time in the guards. This is the way to see what is going in!
"That building in the Trade Quarter is very interesting." Kadaz muses out loud while at sampsons. "Since it is still filled with sewage that means it must have a connection with the sewers that Illonia escaped through. I think we need to back to look more closely at this one. "
Back at Sampsons Kadaz is enjoying his meal when the odd set of strangers come in. While Kadaz is not one to jump to conclusions this mismatched group stands out. He rests his hand near the hilt of his axe, just in case.
Xenia d20+19=23 Thursday July 13th, 2006 9:27:23 AM
The dark half-elf comes in on the arm of her handsome guy. This night her hair falls loose across her slim shoulders in a cascade of fire red waves.
'Sampsons', huh? Nice enough. Cozy.
Here green eyes scan the room from behind lenses perched on the bridge of her dark nose. (Spot 23) Suddenly, her mouth drops open into a rounded "oh" and her green eyes light up with surprise.
"Wynn! Wynn!" Xenia grabs at the bard's arm in her excitement, the arm she's already holding. She reaches behind to her back and the obliging haversack comes up with just the thing she's stored for safe keeping.
"Hey!" Her thin arm shoots up into the air and the fringes on her velvet sleeve fly as she waves it about. "Hey!" At the top of her arm clutched in a gloved hand is a yellow slip of paper. "Hey, Mira!" the dark rogue calls out.
Shadow Thursday July 13th, 2006 10:19:37 AM
"We will definitely need to check that out again to see if we can find a trial for 'Lady' Illonia there, but I doubt we will find any trace there. My guess is she would be hiding out in one of the better locations or with the elves only because of her tag along that escaped with her."
When the mismatched group enters he reaches over and gives a nudge to any of his cmpanions that do not notice the group immediately. He is very tense with how the group is looking around the room, but relaxes a hair when the dusky-skinned elf reacts and calls out Mira by name. He will keep his hand on his new dagger just in case, but he hopes this is an acquaintance of the mage.
Belkior Thursday July 13th, 2006 1:47:35 PM
The halfling cleric with the deformed cat legs looks about the tavern. At least as much as he can see of it from his position. This is another of those times when being small is a disadvantage.
Still, from Xenia's reaction, it seems that she knows some of these people. It can't go too badly wrong, can it? Not like that time during the waking of the Fae King back in the Float.
DM Note - This is JohnP's character. I will be posting for myself for a while, then recruiting a Sub. In other words, sometimes Belkior will be used to advance the story line.
Thar ail Baerer Thursday July 13th, 2006 2:59:37 PM
As the group heads to Sampson's, Thar tells them what his cleric has said. "The priest had little information, but the bit he did have concerned the building with the bugbear in front of it. The church's parishoners (who live there) have complained about being harassed in that building and I think it may be worth checking out further."
Watching the group that has entered pensively, Thar keeps his hands loose, and continues eating his meal. He watches them closely, hoping that they aren't hostile or will try to start something that could result in further bloodshed. He is somewhat relieved that Mira seems to know one of the group.
Mira Thursday July 13th, 2006 6:44:06 PM
Furrows mark Mira's brow as Arm confides his news to her. "Arm," she says, ever so quietly so that only the bard will hear, "I heard no sound. Are you very sure?" The sorcerer slides her arm down the bard's, until they are holding hands, palm to palm. Mira hopes her hands aren't cold, but she is worried for her companion.
******* Back at Sampson's Mira slumps in her chair as Kadaz, Shadow, and Thar discuss things. The mage is idly picking at her food when the door opens, and an adventuring group enters the establishment. Engrossed in the terrain she is creating with the remains of her meal, Mira pays no attention to the odd party...until one of them calls out her name!
Pulling herself to a sitting position, Mira pushes her glasses back up her nose, and squints in the direction of the entrance. It's the drow-girl she befriended a while back at the Winter Solstice Party in the Giggling Ghost. Xenia was her name, and her cute boyfriend, the bard, Wynn, and the other fellow, what was his name, Syr? Mira had met them all, though the elf had been pretty quiet.
But who was that with her? She had mentioned she was a Crimson Shield, but a...bugbear? And what was with the halfling with the cat legs? And that weird looking blonde.
"I know Xenia, and Wynn," she says, addressing those at the table. "Their party is known as the "Crimson Shields". They are from Floating City. They're pretty good," she says by way of explanation. Standing up, and knocking her chair over in the process, she waves at the half-drow. "Over here Xenia!" she calls, and then addressing her group, "pull that table over here, and get some more chairs!"
Syr Thursday July 13th, 2006 9:29:27 PM
As the group enters, the short elf does his best to go unnoticed and standing behind Lang, it isn't difficult. Aware of the many stares that they are receiving, he shows nothing but a small tight smile on his face. After Xenia calls out, he sticks his head around Lang's broad back to follow her gaze until it rests on an old acquintence. Sighing with relief and thinking to himself that this will be easier than he thought. He helps move the chairs and tables with obvious ease to join up with the Mira's group. Greeting everyone with a nod and a genuine smile, "Hiya, the name's Syrdeth Redbow... no before ya ask, I do not have a bow...Anyway, most just call me 'Syr'. The big guy and his pooch that gets all the attention are Lang and Sunshine. I'll let the others introduce themselves."
Xenia (2nd Illegal Post) Thursday July 13th, 2006 10:20:33 PM
Xenia is all big grins as she drags Wynn across the inn towards Mira and her friends. She waves the yellow slip of paper.
"Hi. I still got your address," the girl rogue says. "But now I guess I won't need it. These your friends? Hi. Alexandria Merryman Next." She drops into a curtsy then springs up. "But you can call me Xenia." She gives everyone a little open palm wave. "Hi. And this is Wynn."
"I'm so glad to see you again, Mira. But we're really here to find this group that mixed it up with a Death Cult recently." The dark skinned girl looks around the room. And then she stops.
"You?" Xenia turns back, her gloved finger pointing collectively at Mira and all of her friends.
Conner Thursday July 13th, 2006 10:26:40 PM
Conner Baelson looks up from his ale to see the dark half elf from the Giggling Ghost arrive and call out for Mira. He stands up to get a better view of the group that has come in with her.
Conner is not paricularly tall, but he makes up for height with hard chorded muscles, the kind built from heavy labour, first with a shovel and later with a sword. If his physique were not imposing enough his short cropped mohawk thick sideburns and moustache and the primitive tattoo that stretches down his right temple surely make him stand out in a crowd.
Conner hooks a neighbouring table with his foot and drags it next to their own table. "Join us?" he asks.
Wynn Thursday July 13th, 2006 10:42:17 PM
The bard follows Xenia over to the table and listens as she goes through introductions. He remembers Mira. She reminds him of a girl that used to look after the books for his father, always pushing her spectacles around.
Wynn removes his hat, and the fanciful disguise of earlier in the evening fades in a shimmering of air about him. He is now readily recognizeable as a half-elf, dressed in a loose cream coloured shirt, brown leather breeches and a brown leather vest. A longsword rests at his left side.
To the casual observer he is just another half-elf, albeit a bit better armed and armoured than most. To the more vigilant there is something else. The gloves on his hands speak to a disformity, and the occassional glimpse of pink flesh partially obscured by his hair... perhaps a scar.
"Wynn Brightsong", he introduces himself and drags two chairs over to the table. "A death Cult, well that sounds like a story to be told." Wynn motions to one of the serving girls for another two pitchers of ale before slipping into one of the chairs.
Meetings & Greetings (DM JohnP) Thursday July 13th, 2006 10:48:01 PM Syr and Xenia leading the way, the Crimson Shields move over to the table occupied by the other adventurers.
Around that table, the reactions to these other adventurers are mixed. Some like Edmund and Arm, are simply curious. Others, like Kadaz, Shadow and Thar are more cautious. Mira recognizes some of them and identifies them for the others. Conner responds in a friendly fashion and Ash simply sit quietly.
Trailing behind the elven monk, the Shields are equally cautious as most of them think back to the encounter in Floating City. Of course, Famina wasn't around for that episode and she's still trying to fit onto this group so she's almost on hair trigger. Belkior is, as always, cautious. And Angus seems to making a show of everything.
Wynn allows some kind of magic to fall away and he is revealed as a half-elf like his flame-haired companion. But there's still something unusual about his neck. Still, he introduces himself politely.
At Syr's urging, the staff eventually manage to shove some tables close so that Shields can sit with the group from Plateau City. Everyone looks at one another after Syr introduces himself, wondering who will speak next.
Belkior Thursday July 13th, 2006 11:02:44 PM
After the tables are joined and the others begin introductions, the halfling cleric looks over at the other group. Since it appears safe, he moves to the smallest of them and extends his hand towards the woman with the lenses perched on her nose.
"Belkior Orvisson, Healer and Paragon of Alemi. You probably noticed me come in. late of Floating City but I attended seminary here in Plateau City. I didn't get out much, certainly not to a place like this. I spent more time looking after people in the Temple hospital."
Belkior can't help but notice the stares. He gestures down towards his legs.
"You're wondering about these? During the awakening of the Fey King, a druid went mad in Floating City. We ... and some others ... subdued her, I guess. And she repaid us by triggering a artifact. I suppose it was tainted by the Fey King's magic since it changed all of us randomly. I got these legs. A mixed blessing, really. I can keep up with the others now but they're difficult to keep clean."
Then Belkior makes his way around the table of the other group, shaking hands or sharing whatever greeting the others mentioned.
"Yes, as Wynn mentioned, we'd been hearing about a group that uprooted a death cult. I was speaking to Librarian Cadmoen in the Cathedral of Light about our experiences with some other undead and he mentioned you folk."
Edmund d20+9=22 Friday July 14th, 2006 3:20:16 AM
Edmund listens to all of the introductions with an increasing bewilderment. By the time they have all finished, he has already forgotten who they are. It was hard enough to barely learn the names of the people he was travelling with, but to suddenly have another six names thrust upon him, out of the blue, is just too much. He gives it up for a loss.
Realising, at the end of the introductions, that he has spent the past few minutes with his mouth gaping open in a surprise, he sits up straight and regains his composure, his teeth clicking to. Feeling this is the correct moment to introduce himself, and possibly make a little speech on the occasion, he launches into a veritable barrage of oratory magnificence, doing his best to ensure the new people regard him positively. (Diplomacy=22)
"Well, well, well, well, well. What ho, there, fellows. And lady. Or rather, ladies now, so it would appear. Nice to meetcha all, to be sure, what what. I'm Edmund Greenleaf, Wandering Mage, Adventurer at Large, Heroic Defender of Plateau City against the might of Evil Elf Sorceress Queens and the very like, inventor of fabled devices too strange and terrible to imagine, and sometime companion of these fine fellows--and lady--what are seeking to make the world a right better place, by defeating aforementioned Evil Elf Sorceress Queens lately plaguing the populace.
Allow me to be the first--or if not the first, the second, or whatever ordinal thereafter--to express a hearty welcome, volumnious greetings, fulsome praise, and my most voluble and profuse expression of salutation at this happy occasion of our meeting. Wheresoever our paths might take us, doubtless this moment shall be heretofore stenciled in the child's drawing book of the memory, as though etched in wax crayon, but otherwise impervious to the ravages of time (though not to a solvent cleansing solution or similar product, I can recommend several if you are in need).
I entreat you, and do heartily beseech you, each and every, to procure for yourselves a place of rest, a commodious furnishing, a comfy chair, an overstuffed ottoman, or even a big wooly blanket laid upon the floor. Join us, eat, drink, and be merry. Tell us tales of your mighty adventures, and we shall tell you tales of ours--and none mightier than mine (though I shan't tell them, not wanting to leave everyone else in the shade. I like to remain modest, giving others a chance to shine, dontcha know!) I shall be happy to listen, to learn, and perhaps to offer words of instruction where appropriate! --Did you know there are forty-seven different kind of turnip? It's true, and their uses are many. This is just one example of the valuable information we have to offer each other!
So, in summary, many greetings on this happy meeting, so let us now proceed to eating, thus ending this oratory to which I'm treating...
You!"
Having finished, and still not even a little breathless, Edmund leans back on his chair, rocking it on the floor. His hands folded over his arms, he smiles in a self-satisfied way, evidently considering this latest endeavour worthy of merit.
Arm Friday July 14th, 2006 6:10:30 AM
Arm looks gravely at Mira and says, "Unfortunately, I am QUITE sure of of what I hear, and it bothers me to no end.".
He relaxes visibly as Mira recognizes at least some of the new group. Rising along with Mira, albeit more gracefully, the half-elf drapes one arm across her shoulders as he introduces himself to the newcomers "I am Armathen Ebano, singer of songs and teller of stories...but with the current climate, I have not had much success with that lately. You, however, may call me Arm.".
Ash Friday July 14th, 2006 7:20:22 AM
Ash watches the proceedings with interest, neither commenting or introducing himself, merely scratching Shelya behind the ears and waiting.
Shadow Friday July 14th, 2006 9:28:30 AM
Shadow listens attently to the introductions, but is noticed to keep taking a look at the door. He is wondering if any thing else strange will happen in the groups normal place of security. When the group starts introducing themselves, Shadow waits his turn and then will stand and say, "Simply call me Shadow and welcome." He looks over at Mira wondering again if she knows enough about this group to really make that a firm welcome. He will then sit and wait to see where this new endeavor takes the group.
Thar ail Baerer Friday July 14th, 2006 10:23:11 AM
Once Shadow completes his introduction, Thar, a rugged looking elf, how wears a mixture of outdoors garments (similar to what a ranger would wear) and some clerical vestments (including a cross on his chest), will rise and say "Hello, my name is Thar. I am glad to meet all of you and if Mira speaks well of you, then I am pleased to have met each of you."
He also adds,"Yes, we've been tracking Lady Ilonia and if you have any information regarding her or would like to join us, then we should discuss that. I'm not speaking for the group though, as I'm really not the 'leader' of it. I mostly heal and help scout things out for the group."
Xenia Friday July 14th, 2006 12:18:45 PM
"Um ... yeah." Evil Elf Sorceress Queen? Lady Ilonia??? "Like Wynn and Belkie said, we're looking to find something about this Death Cult. And we were told that you were the ones who run them out."
Seated next to Wynn, Xenia looks first from the Really-Talky-Greenleaf guy to the Ranger Cleric guy. Trying to figure out what they're trying to say.
"Um ... and so I'm figuring, and tell me if I'm wrong here, that this Evil-Elf-Sorceress-Queen is this Lady Ilonia, right? And she's involved in this Death Cult you put down, right? I'm right, right?"
The dark girl purses her lips with dissatisfaction. She draws a deep breath and then puffs it out in a sigh.
"Hang on, why don't we, like, you know, both start from the beginning, huh? Really, Wynn is much better at this story stuff than I am ... " The rogue takes another deep breath.
"We came over from Floating City to get some orphans settled in a new home. And we got offered this plantation outside the city here by a merchant "Family" here by the name of the Van Ottens. Only hitch is we gotta go out there and look into some weirdness going on with the old owner."
"Well, looks like the place got taken over by a vampie girl who's a cleric. And after we route her and her minions we find these papers stuck in this hidden place, you see. They're letters between her and this group in Plateau City that she's a part of. Some kind of Death Cult. Same Death Cult that we heard you just put down. Which is why we're here. Looking for you, I mean."
"There was an address in with the papers. At least part of an address." The rogue takes out the document containing the address and puts it on the table. "Maybe you could tell us something about this place."
"That's about it for us. Now maybe you could tell us what this Death Cult is all about, yeah? If it's a threat to our kids we want to know about it."
Famina Friday July 14th, 2006 2:42:16 PM
The tall blonde stares at the other party's members, measuring them up. A diverse group, mainly of elvish/human blood. Nothing amazing there. This one fellow gives a speech that is impressive in its wordiness, and obviously meant to be friendly, and to Famina it just smacks of civilized manners. Well, it's best to be nice to them back. Especially since... "Yes, the Death Cult. Followers of Marteaus, right? And, um, have you in your journeys seen any green little gems that are particularly unique, like, Xenia, can you show them it?" Famina looks hopefully to the half-elf girl, who assumedly does show the other group the unique green gem they found upon the vampire's throne, as well as the dwarven patriarch had shown them.
Angus d20+9=19 Friday July 14th, 2006 3:11:54 PM
Angus slides over to the offered table and takes a seat and drops his big leather traveling hat on the back of his chair. The thin man barely makes the chair creak when he sits down. "Hi All, Angus Deminoff and he nods and smiles at all the new faces."
Angus adds to Xenia's comments "The vampire was real tough, her name was Sarah, if that means anything to you. She would not have mixed well with the orphanage we were setting up. Been having a bit of trouble finding these kids a home. One was burned down and we lost the next in the troubles. The Floating City was overrun by plant creatures, not a nice place to grow up right now. That is why we are in your lovly city."
Angus clears his throat after Famina adds her piece. "We actually did not find any gems, although we are always looking, but a green stone in the shape of a spider. Does than mean anything to you?
Angus sips from his wine and continues "Our new friends the Von Otten's, you must know them, have informed us that you routed this death cult. All taken care of then? We just don't want any problem to crop up for our orphans, as we would hate to have to find them a new home again. It has been a full time job for too long."
Angus barely eats and instead takes out his flute and beings to play "It helps with digestion you know."
(Perform 19)
Between notes Angus adds "Anyone have any words to add to my tune?"
Mira Friday July 14th, 2006 5:42:37 PM
Open mouthed, Mira just gapes in astonishment until the newest member of their party finishes his dialogue. "Well, then," she says, settling herself back in her chair, "well, then," she repeats, and steepling her fingers, she explains, "we were investigating a case concerning a piece of stolen jewelry. All clues pointed towards a couple of rough types who styled themselves as part of this new Plateau City Defense League. They seem to be a vigilante group sprung up after the "troubles" as you call them, targeting those with elvish blood as responsible for the Fey King and the upsurge in natural phenomena." Mira beckons for a server, and orders a couple of bottles of wine, and jug of water to round out the previously ordered beer.
"Anyway," she continues, "we traced the missing jewelry and these goons from the Defense League to a pile in the wealthy quarter, owned by the widow of a merchant by the name of de Montmorency. Lady Iliona, as she is called, seems to be the sponsor of a weird cult called Bearer's of the Chalice." Mira's eyes slide over to Arm, then she leans forward on the table and lowers her voice, so that those gathered 'round must also lean forward to hear her, "we witnessed the ceremony, and it seemed pretty harmless, just a big show for those who showed up." The sorcerer's green eyes cloud, "later we heard about a high placed elven priest of Flower who was murdered. The description of the murderer's fit our Defense League/Chalice goons and we went back to check the place out, after the big to-do. There was another "ceremony" going on in a secret chamber...and there were undead..."
Mira hangs her head. How does she explain to these experienced adventurers that the ring-leaders got away?
Conner Friday July 14th, 2006 5:51:21 PM
The fighter pours another mug of ale from the pitcher in front of him and takes a long pull of the frothy liquid. He starts to relax as the strangers settle in and begin to tell their tale. He knows nothing of vampires and the undead, and frowns at Edmund's over-glorification of the events that unfolded in the mansion. "Lady Iliona escaped" he grumbles. "Got away through the sewers. We're working with a couple of constables to try and track her down." He takes another drink and says no more.
Syr Friday July 14th, 2006 6:02:32 PM
Leaning back in his chair and propping a knee on the edge of the table the elf seems quite comfortable with the new group. His grin widens as he winks at Arm, "hmm, Arm was it? I like the shortened name (go figure)! Anyway, is Conner always this wordy or does he save it up to tortue unsuspecting strangers?" Putting his hands together a few times, he claps, "Just kidding Sir Mage, that was well thought out and said."
Kadaz Friday July 14th, 2006 8:24:06 PM
Kadaz is sitting back from the table a bit, observing the newcomers. He looks like a walking metal shop -- full plate mail, big axe, flail, multiple knives. He is also rather ugly with sparse facial hair, a disaster for a dwarf. But he has a loyal companion in his dog, a mutt named Birdie that's wearing a good looking collar.
"We've made some friends in the local guard by breaking up the cultists at Lady Illona's. We also have some clues as to other possible locations and are planning to investigate one or two in depth. Would you like to come? And you say you have an address. I wonder if it matches any of the locations we have."
He looks over at the other dwarf and says in dwarvish "Hello Belkior. Good to have another dwarf in this party. If I may ask, what's with your legs?"
(OOC: I am going on vacation from July 24-29 and am looking for someone to play Kadaz for me. Any volunteers?)
Wynn d20+10=27 Friday July 14th, 2006 10:57:55 PM
Wynn listens to the discussions swirling around him and the good natured banter that has broken out between the two parties. Mixed in amongst all the chatter he catches the strains of Angus' flute and joins him in song [Perform=27]. The lyrics are somewhat stilted as is often the case when they are so quickly improvised, but Wynn's voice is well practiced and strong.
Sarah was a vampire, a creature of the night Older than the oldest elf, upon the land a blight Three young girls and their father, she captured in her snare In eternal darkness, she chained them in her lair
Each passing day her power grew, and undead gathered near Empowered by each victim, she spread her cloak of fear Silently each night she crept and hunted by the lake Innocent souls she tracked her blood lust for to slake
The Shields arrived in search of home and bed Instead of peace and quiet we encountered the undead Sarah's spawn and zombies pressed us in the night Her wolves leapt upon us, their wicked fangs a deadly sight.
Despite her worst intentions and her minions evil might We stood our ground and bested them and lasted out the night Their corpses now lie buried beneath the grassy mound In time the rain will fall and crops will grow upon the killing ground
Now truly dead, her body burned, her soul as black as tar The vampire was but one of many in cities near and far A spider stone, a letter torn, the clues are precious few To trace this rot within the Wold, a challenge for the true.
DM Announcement (JohnP) Friday July 14th, 2006 10:59:17 PM
Too beat to post tonight. Will post over the weekend.
Belkior - 2nd Illegal Post Friday July 14th, 2006 11:09:24 PM
The halfling cleric listens to the stories that roll around the table. After a while, Belkior withdraws some pens and paper and starts making notes.
"Well, Wynn's got the long and short of it from our perspective. We went out to the farm, defeated the vampire and her undead minions and then tried to make the place safe."
"We found some things when we cleaned the place. Like Famina said, a stone carving of what looks like a statue. We've just come from the Von Otten's where we learned that some others nearly identical were found near Floating City."
"And some papers, including letters between the vampire and some addresses here in town. As Xenia said, we checked them out. Found out one was the mansion where you beat the death cult. The other was a stinking tenement in what's called Nightmare Quarter. Not too far from the Temple of Marteaus. Nasty looking bugbear ... no offense intended, Lang ... hanging on the doorstep. Seemed to be suffering from some sort of lung ailment, if I'm any judge."
"So, you're busy chasing down the ringleaders who got away. You checked out some places, you said?"
Angus (Second Illegal post) Saturday July 15th, 2006 7:02:20 AM
After Wynn adds his voice to his flute, Angus laughs good naturedly and responds to Kadaz in dwarvish "Master Dwarf, please remove your helmut. You are mistaking our halfling healer of Alemi for a dwarf. We had a dwarf in our company, but he was recalled to his clan. The Von Otten's are dwarfs you know. So much practice for me with languages lately, very nice." Angus leans back and casts a winning smile at the new group of adventurers.
Arm Saturday July 15th, 2006 12:07:13 PM
The sidelong glance from Mira is not lost on Arm, as he realizes that she is quite probably not ready to tell everyone about what has been happening to him.
Taking a liking to him, Arm leans toward Syr and whispers with a smile, "I believe you are referring to Edmund and not Conner... but yes, unfortunately he is ALWAYS wordy."
After listening to Wynn's performance, Arm applauds loudly, regretting deeply the current situation that has prevented him from doing much the same. As an afterthought, however, he realizes that since Wynn is brave enough to call attention to himself, perhaps he can once again practice as well.
Xenia (2nd Illegal Post) d20+9=26 Saturday July 15th, 2006 11:06:26 PM
Xenia grins wide at the applause that Wynn receives for the ballad he's just made. After the stuffy banquet at the dwarven mansion, this is just the perfect thing. She rises to her feet and begins putting her hands together as well.
*clap*clap* *clap*clap*
She keeps a measured beat with her hands, her shoulders turn in constant motion and her hips sway side to side, as with short shuffling steps she dances a circle around Wynn. Then breaking from the circle, Xenia dances a path around the clustered tables. She syncopates the beat, spinning a pirouette in the space between Syr and Arm.
"Yip! Yee!"
Passing Mira then Conner, Xenia adds voice to her hand claps.
"WOOOO!!!"
Just past Shadow and Thar the dark rogue whips off her cloak and throws it high into the air. As she breaks her pattern and spins like a dervish on around the table. Past Ash, Edmund, Lang, Angus and Famina she whirls, while her cloak flutters down, and down, and down to settle over the heads of both Belkior and Kadaz.
Coming full circle around the table, Xenia comes to an abrupt stop. She stands poised, in a moment of perfect stillness. Then she bends like a willow, in a languid backward arch. Her chest heaves with the heat of her dance, and her dark lips tremble as she looks up into Wynn's face up above. (Perform Dance 26)
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