The Three Forks Inn (DM Lee-Anne) Wednesday December 20th, 2000 7:10:39 PM
The new day brings a sunny new dawn and a bustling inn. Sly wakes to find the young half-orc feeding the horses under Trace's supervision. Morning fare in the common room is filling, but hardly up to Alyndar's standards. The road awaits.
Trace and Radiant Wednesday December 20th, 2000 11:11:18 PM
Trace grabs some sasuage and a couple of biscuts then climbs on his horse to start the new day rideing around a bit to get to know his new horse. He pulls up sharply next to the cart and holds his arm out for Radiant to perch on and feeds him some breakfeast as well. Talking to Sly as he awakes, "Good morning little brother. everyone should be feeling fresh except for maybe Lok, he did a little celebrateing last night for all of us so he might be a little slow other than that every one should be refreshed. As soon as every one gets ready we should make it to Hook city some time today." Trace waits downsatairs in the road on his horse ready to start the day.
Sly Foxx and Luke Thursday December 21st, 2000 12:58:17 AM
Since Trace distracted the half orc stable boy for a few minutes, Came out from under the tarps. Sly is sitting on the tail gate of the wagon and listening about the action going on with Loc last night. "Don't tell him (Loc),Trace but I begining to like that little one." both Trace and Sly have a good laugh. "I think I'll go into breakfast, and let you break in you new horse. See you later." Sly put his bedroll away and straitens the back of the wagon, turns and tell Luke "Watch the wagon and the animals and I'll see to it you get some sasuages this morn." Then off he goes into the Inn to eat, to himself he thinks* I cannot wait to see how Loc feels this morn.*
Qwint Thursday December 21st, 2000 1:12:24 AM
Quint wakes with dry mouth,and he cannot wait to go down stairs for breakfast. Qwint goes to the stand ans splashes water on his face. And off he goes to breakfast, down the stairs and sets his eyes on the feast. then to himself*I'm going to get fat if I eat like this every day*
Alyndar Thursday December 21st, 2000 4:04:49 AM
Aly wakes up just before sunrise and stares at the ceiling. After a few minutes he crawls out of bed and goes to the washbasin, pours some water in the bowl, and washes his hands and face. He then puts on his freshly cleaned clothes, packs up his stuff, then proceeds to study his spellbook. When study time is over with, he heads downstairs and orders a plate of scrambled eggs and bacon and a hot cup of black. He tips the waitress a gold then goes and thanks the innkeeper for his hospitality and service, he tips him a gold as well. Aly then goes outside, and starts checking out the wagon, making sure it is fit for travel, then does the same to the animals. He hitches up the team for today's travels and before he climbs onto the wagon he goes and tips the young stableboy a gold as well. Aly then returns to his wagon, climbs aboard, and awaits the arrival of everyone else to depart.
When we hit the outskirts of town, Aly will start singing a medley about a young boy and his long lost love. A comedy more than a romance song.
Lok Mufflefoot Thursday December 21st, 2000 7:14:13 AM
Lok awakes and climbs out of bed with the ease of dragging a boulder through a swamp. Having half an eye open the halfling manages to stumble confusedly downstairs for breakfast. Midway through the breakfast he suddenly understands what the stares he has been receiving are about. Unwittingly the halfling had come down in his bedclothes still. Paying the waitress with some coins that had fortunately made their way into his bedclothes somehow, he walks upstairs and prepares to leave. Unfortunately it is at that point that he remembers that he must have gone back downstairs somewhere deep in the night wanting more wine. Shuddering at the thought of even a sip more, he makes his way to where the others are gathering after having changed and freshened some. As he approaches them, he tries to hide his aversion to the sun, and says as cheerfully as he can muster "Ready to hit the road." He cocks his head slightly at the throbbing pain that is just coming into full swing in his poor halfling head.
Uteva Thursday December 21st, 2000 11:31:55 AM
Waking to the bright new day, Teva takes a few minutes to quietly sing to herself, rehearsing her spells in her mind. Then she gathers her gear and heads down to break her fast.
"Good morn, gentlemen," she calls. "Are we ready to meet the wonders of Hook City?" She chatters animatedly while they assemble outside, grinning and occasionally bouncing up on her toes.
Spying Lok's palor and miserable expression, she quiets down some and approaches him. "I had a good time last night, and I'm sorry you're suffering now for our fun." She bends down and gives him a quick peck on the forehead. "Maybe that will help, some."
Turning to the others, she asks, "Who will ride the third horse? Come on, Ilsidur, you know you want to." She continues to tease the priest as they move out, until Alyndar distracts her with his new song.
Ilsidur Thursday December 21st, 2000 12:59:07 PM
Ilsidur wakes up to the first sun's rays coming through the shutters. He gets up and has a quick wash, thanking Marmathon Dur for another day and another opportunity to find out more about the world. Although he had had a few to drink the night before, his dwarven constitution has let him waken without the hangover he knows Lok will have. He says his morning prayers [OOC: take same spells as before], then heads down for breakfast.
After breakfast, he thanks the innkeeper for his enjoyable stay, and the information from last night, and gives him a gold piece.
Outside, he shifts his pack on his shoulder and grips his crossbow tightly, ready for the trek. He watches Trace prance around on his new mount, and mumbles, "He's going to fall off of there one day and whack his head, mark my words." Then he smiles and knocks on the stock of his crossbow, to make sure he hasn't jinxed the ranger.
When Uteva starts to tease him about riding, he repsonds, "Uteva, don't get me wrong. I love horses, I just love them with garlic and pepper and vegetables, instead." Then he moves over and takes his place beside the wagon, ready to go.
Sir Thomas Thursday December 21st, 2000 9:20:42 PM
Thomas rolls off of the floor and heads for the outhouse to relieve the cramping pain he is receiving from his bladder. He returns to the room and dresses and dons his armor. He then prays and heads back downstairs for breakfast. He eats quickly, but politely. He then stands and settles any charge for the food and, seeing that Alyndar has already tipped all of the staff, he leaves to take care of his new mount. He brushes it and then saddles it. He feeds it a little food from his hand and then allows the stableboy to feed it while he waits for everyone to gather. "I think I will call you Cammaron. It's a good name, I hope you like it." Thomas rides out with the rest of the group after they have all assembled. "What did I miss Lok? Did you meet a girl, or just have too much fun? Either way, I don't envy anything about your current situation."
The Last Stretch (DM Lee-Anne) Thursday December 21st, 2000 9:32:46 PM
Awash in golden tips, the staff of the inn are very helpful in getting the party on the road. This stretch of the Trade Road is well-maintained and well-travelled. You pass an assortment of travellers and merchants moving in both directions.
Trace quickly discovers that his new mount has a fondness for a tall, purple-flowered weed that grows in profusion along the roadside. The gelding keeps stopping and fighting the bit to grab another mouthful.
As you approach the city, it's namesakes begin to dominate the skyline. Visible over the city wall, four huge hooks hang suspended from nothing high in the air. They hold up a vast bridge by a network of cables.
The scene on this side of the wall is more mundane. Miniature city of shacks, tents and wagons surrounds the wall. The mass of people, animals and goods moving about has churned the ground into mud. Merchants out-shout each other in selling their wares. In front of the gates, a long line-up await the chance to enter Hook City.
Sly Foxx and Luke Friday December 22nd, 2000 1:25:49 AM
After breakfast, Sly takes extra meat for the trip to make sure that his dog won't wander too far. Then leaves the Inn and takes his place in line for the trip to Hook City. Sly wander to Loc and tells him," I know how you must feel, my friend, But I'll give you a little advice, That I heard from my father tell his friend, before you party and you know your going to drink at. The first thing you do, before you do any drinking of any kind, drink a mug of sweet cream. And Friend, you won't have the pain you are feeling now." then on second though turn to Loc again and ask him if he wants to ride in the wagon. then they were off on the road.
Qwint Friday December 22nd, 2000 1:35:49 AM
Qwint packs and is still limps a little and ask if he can sit in the edge of the wagon. "Loc want a hand getting on the back of this wagon ?" The trip to Hook City is very bumpy. after a few hours Qwint will walk beside the wagon,"you don't look too good Loc, if your going to whoops, Hang over the edge." Qwint tell Loc trying to ease his pain. "Want a drink of water?" Qwint ask Loc.
Trace and Radiant Friday December 22nd, 2000 3:22:00 PM
Trace sees Lok looking quite green and rides over to him. "Hey Lok maybe if you ate something it might make you feel better. Like some nice fried eggs that are still runny in the middle or some oatmeal." Trace seeing that his suggestions might not have had the right effect moves quickly ahead of the group to lead to Hook City. "Hey Aly are you feeling better today? You looked a bit perturbed last night and didnt say anything to us. I didnt do anything wrong did I?"
Lok Mufflefoot Friday December 22nd, 2000 4:00:17 PM
The halfling tries his best to keep up appearances of not feeling sick at all. Unfortunately with the suggestions by Trace, the proddings, he does not suceed well. Initially, Lok insists on walking, however soon enough his land legs turn to his sea legs and are as wobbly as a boulder held by the strength of one mouse. Gratefully taking his seat in the cart the halfling turns all shades of green during the day. Suggestions of oatmeal do not seem to make him feel much better, however by midday the halfling seems more normal. Any reference to his drunkeness is met with a complete lack of acknoledgment by him. "I was just trying to gather information covertly you see, they will tell a drunk halfling juggler anything. Why that beautiful woman sitting near the bar even told me that she really thought Trace was rather nice looking. I had to clear her mind of that drivel dravel. And you'd be surprised how many shiny coins I found!" Strangely enough he does produce a few coppers, which could be not things he aquired, but coins thrown at him by the laughing patrons.
Uteva Friday December 22nd, 2000 4:24:52 PM
Teva clasps her hands before her, eyes wide with excitement. "Just what I was hoping for -- more mud!" She drops the pose and rolls her eyes. "I guess we'd better get in line." Keeping a wary eye on the crowds, she sticks close to the cart and helps to move it if it becomes mired.
Alyndar d20+9=20 Friday December 22nd, 2000 8:07:11 PM
Turns to Trace, smiles and says : Heavens no boy, you did nothing wrong. It was the weather you see, if always puts me in a fowl mood when im drenched to the bone.
While talking to Trace, Aly spies the sweat on Lok's brow and greeness in his cheeks and brings the cart to a stop. He clambers down off the cart, and places his herbology book where he can read whats on some pages. He pours some water into a cup, pulls out his herb bag, and starts adding various roots and stems and leaves into the cup, and swirls it around counterclock wise. He then strains the mixture into another cup and then hands it to Lok saying: here son, drink this potion. It should soothe your tummy some and help you a bit.
Ilsidur Friday December 22nd, 2000 9:56:44 PM
Ilsidur falls in line behind the cart, careful to avoid all the piles of horse dung. He looks up at the bridge and tells the rest of the group what he had heard from the bar last night. "I got some interesting advice from the crowd in the bar last night. It seems that the city is full of magic, and that the people take this magic very seriously. Also, civility seems to be important to them as well, so we'd best watch our step."
Sir Thomas Saturday December 23rd, 2000 12:30:13 AM
"I agree with you Ilsidur. On top of this being a strange place, it is still a strange land to some of us. I think that we should stick together as much as possible. . . you know, to watch each others backs." Thomas rides along side of the cart and takes in the awe inspiring scene from atop Cammaron.
Queued Up (DM Lee-Anne) Saturday December 23rd, 2000 3:00:54 PM
The party settles in behind a group that is using the familiar plank trick to move their wagon. Those of you who are on the ground are soon filthy, and the rest become lightly spattered with mud. In the line and in the tent city, the more prosperous-looking folk are heavily guarded by armed warriors. The unguarded keep their hands on their purses.
A thin young woman in line just behind the party confides to Ilsidur, "I hear they kill those who don’t have proper credentials to enter for wasting their time!" She watches the crowd around her, clearly anxious as the line lurches forward another wagonlength.
An older woman approaches Sly, holding out her arms. They are covered from wrist to elbow with leather, cord, and chain bracelets set with small, shiny gems. "A gift for your lady, good sieur? A beautiful jewel to show her you care."
Trailed by his guard, a portly merchant leads a well-laden mule toward the front of the cart. "Ah, sieur Elf. I've a fine bargain for you. Elegant throw rugs, hand-crafted by virgins of the Sargassi tribes!" He reaches into one pack and draws forth a corner of bright, intricately woven cloth.
A bearded man, brandishing a similar carpet, elbows him out of the way. "Charlatan!" he shouts. "Inferior product. Note the genuine workmanship and authentic detail in the rugs I have to offer. I will not cheat you as this one would," he tells Alyndar. Behind the two men, their guards face off against each other, looking more bored than threatening.
Similar incidents occur up and down the line as the queue inches toward the gates. Cammaron grows restive and nervous, perhaps bothered by the crowds or the noise.
Sly Foxx and Luke Monday December 25th, 2000 12:05:19 PM
Sly tell the merchants,"I have no time now, maybe later." Then Look at Loc and tell him " OH you look better already." and Daydreams of hot baths and a cool ale, But most of all a nice Cherry Berry Pie. So while he has the time he will study spells out of his book.
Qwint (ceil) Monday December 25th, 2000 12:12:28 PM
Qwint walks along wishing that there was a better way to get through this mud. Walking along the side of the wagon and talking to Uteve,"I don't understands this, BUT I'm told that WOMEN like to put this mud on their faces, they say it makes them pretty? You know something, I can not see the differance..."
Alyndar Monday December 25th, 2000 2:18:18 PM
Aly sits there as the 2 merchants almost come to fisticuffs, arguing whos product is better. Then, out of the blue, Aly starts roaring in laughter, and when the 2 merchants and their guards stop to see what he's laughing at, Aly stops for a second, then roars even louder. Aly turns to see the group not on horseback, covered from head to toe in mud, and almost falls off the wagon, from laughing too much and too hard. He's laughing so hard and so much, that tears are just streaming down his face.
Ilsidur Monday December 25th, 2000 10:20:36 PM
Ilsidur slogs through the mud, trying to avoid the larger potholes. He smiles at the antics of the merchants trying to sell their goods to Sly. "Isn't that always the way," he thinks to himself, "picking on the elves. Those merchants know better than to waste a dwarf's time with such frivilous items. Now, if that costume jewellry were real, that would be a different matter." He tries to scrape some of the thicker layers of mud from his cloak as he nears the gates.
Sir Thomas Monday December 25th, 2000 10:21:43 PM
Sir Thomas can see the difficulty of all of the situations that are going on at once. "I can see why they would protect their city so closely. I hope the inner city is not so crazy." THomas leans in to the ear of Cammaron and speaks quiet words of assurance the horse can not possibly understand. As he does so he strokes the thick muscular neck of the animal. "Shhhh. It's ok Cammaron. It will be ok. They aren't going to hurt us. let it go. Let it go." Thomas stays near the cart and the group. he keeps one hand on his purse as he sits straight-backed upon the riding horse. "What is our destination inside the city? I would like to visit the temples of Alemi and Domi. Whatever the case, everybody keep their heads. I don't think this is going to be very fun."
Trace and Radiant Tuesday December 26th, 2000 2:50:20 AM
Moveing back next to Sir Thomas, "Well I suggest that we find that fellow the inn keeper told us that would help us. If I rember correctly we have come here to find help or guidence in ridding the forest of orcs or have our plans changed?"
Lok Mufflefoot Tuesday December 26th, 2000 10:12:43 AM
Seemingly cured of his former sickness, the halfling bounces around happily and looks for shiny things in the merchants pockets with his eyes and not his hands. He becomes ever happier with the antics of the merchants and winks at them. Bouncing around Qwint he says "If mud makes them pretty maybe we should make you pretty like them too!" The halfling picks up three small handfulls of mud and mashes them into balls and begins juggling them dangerously close to Qwint.
Mud City Blues (DM Jerry) d100=92 Tuesday December 26th, 2000 2:47:32 PM
Someone has put up a very beat up sign on a tall post that says, "Welcome to Mud City!"
A trader having reached the front of the line is overheard to say, "Hey! I got 3 full hours of trading and 6 hours time in the city! Not too much of a delay either. 13 days! Now, if I can only keep my goods safe in this den of thieves until then. Roust, we'll need to hire some additional mercs for the duration. Take care of that my friend."
Suddenly a group of "cleanfolk" on horses comes racing from the distance and begins scrutinizing those in line. One, holding a orange glowing staff in one hand, casts a spell and with amplified voice announces. "We are the Mudhound Mercs: licensed Mud City Bounty Hunters . We look today for a confirmed thief! She is wanted by the Northhook Guard, who are offering a 3 Red Chit reward for information leading to her capture."
One of the mercs, a noble looking and yellow bearded fellow, drives through the line to the opposite side for a look at something in the distance.
The slender lady in line behind you is pushed forward and tossed into Alyndar's cart. She says, "Ow," but instead of anger, turns a fearful look upon the bounty hunter.
The bearded man turns and looks hard at her as if he's about to go off on her verbally for being in his way. However, he instead spins his horse and begins rides off in the direction of whatever it was he saw.
The slender woman spotting Alyndar's cookies, nervously says, "Oh those look good."
The party is now 4th in line from the gate. There a kind looking woman sits inside the gate, clean and keeping those she talks to at bay so to remain so. She talks to a middle-aged man who presents citizen's papers and is welcomed inside.
Meanwhile, a distant bards music floats for a second over the wind and you hear the words, "I got the Mud City Blues."
(DM roll of 92%--will explain later--sneaky Jerry)
Alyndar Tuesday December 26th, 2000 4:17:14 PM
Aly turns when he hears the crash in the wagon, he sees the woman laying there, frightened and turns to see what caused her grief, sees the man on horseback, and gives him a scowl to make an orc weep. He then hears the woman's compliment and says: Here <offering 2 cookies> take these before Mr Glutton <points to Sly> gets to em.
Aly will watch the woman until she gets out of the wagon and wanders off.
Aly also puts one foot on the chest containing group items and stuffs the pouch with party treasure into his shirt.
Sly Foxx and Luke Wednesday December 27th, 2000 12:22:25 AM
Sly wanted to go for his sword, when the girl was pushed into the wagon, BUT though better of it. then Smiled at the lady, offered his hand to make her decent down off the wagon (with cookies in hand). Sly stop her from running away for just a moment, because Sly wanted to give her the two biskit he had put away for later. After she ran away, Sly look back at Alyndar and Qwint and tell them " She's too skinny for my taste."
Qwint Wednesday December 27th, 2000 12:28:06 AM
Qwint clutching his heart,"OH! NO! Did I see what just went on? Sly giving his food away? to a stranger? Alyndar maybe we should put Sly into the wagon, HE must be very ill."
Sir Thomas d10=6 d10=6 d10=3 d10=3 d10=6 d10=8 Wednesday December 27th, 2000 12:37:50 PM
Reacting much too slowly to achieve anything of any good gets the strong urge to ride down the rude fellow that pushed the lady into their cart and tell him about manners. He turns his horse about to do just that and then decides better of the action. "Dang!! I wish I had been paying better attention. That fellow was rude in the worst way, and I bet he is pretentious enough to think he's noble. What an *&%, pardon my tongue." On top of his slow reaction, in the time of his outburst he misses his opportunity to apologize to the lady. Instead of dwelling on it he turns back to Trace, "Yes, you are right, I had forgotten. It seems that entrance into the city is going to be a little more complicated than we had originally thought. "Who has that letter to the barkeep? Get it ready because if we can't get in we may need that sooner than later." As they get closer to the gate guards, Thomas dismounts into the mud of the road and leads his horse up to speak with the guards.
(The rolls are for new HP if we do that. I used hero points on the rolls that came up as 3)
Ilsidur Wednesday December 27th, 2000 11:26:53 PM
Ilsidur pulls out the letter from Maurice, and reads it. [OOC: Jerry, what is in the letter? If you tell us what it says, we can try to use it to roleplay past the guards.] "This letter refers us to Maurice's uncle, who owns a tavern called the Frosted Glass in SouthHook. Maybe it can help us get into Hook City? Now, we had better come up with some sort of reason for enterring Hook City. I suggest we tell the guards about our attacks on the road here, and state that we intend to go back along the same road to clean out the orcs that attacked us. If we can make the case about how important that is for travel and trade, it might make a difference. What do you all think is a good strategy to get in?"
Trace and Radiant Wednesday December 27th, 2000 11:48:40 PM
Trace continues to wait while Sir Thomas goes up to the guards to gain entrance into Hook City.
Ducking and Weaving (DM Jerry) Thursday December 28th, 2000 1:18:11 AM
Suddenly, the rude man on the horse comes galloping back, looks at a drawing and at the skinny woman in the wagon. "I've got her! She's the one! I'm sure of it. Woman, reveal your left elbow... Now!"
The lady with incredible quickness jumps up leaping off the wagon and begins weaving her way back through the line, ducking and weaving.
Alyndar Thursday December 28th, 2000 2:05:49 AM
ALy watches with wild bewilderment as the woman nimbly runs off into the crowd, he looks at the man on horseback and out of the blue, starts coughing and hacking and wheezing, he does so for a few minutes then snorts, and spits a glob of red onto the ground between the oxen. He then wipes his mouth with his kercheif and is astonished to see blood on it. Aly then feels his forehead, and cheeks, at which time the group sees his face pale and without warning, topples off the cart onto the muddy ground, unconscious.
Sir Thomas Thursday December 28th, 2000 12:18:22 PM
Before Thomas can get up to the guards he sees Alyndar topple from the cart. "Alyndar!" Thomas exclaims as he lets go of his horses reigns and rushes over to his fallen friend. He scoops his friend up into his arms and evaluates Alyndar to the best of his ability, but he knows that Ilsidur will do a better job. He ignores the antics of the chase that is going on with the 'noble man' and the woman. "Ilsidur, I think this might be your department. I have still have my healing powers for today and I would be more than happy to use them now, but if what is going on with Alyndar is a disease then that won't help. However, I think I can cure a disease. Let me know what is appropriate."
Ilsidur d20=13 Thursday December 28th, 2000 1:03:25 PM
Ilsidur shouts to Trace, Lok and Sly, "You guys better follow that lady and find out what is going on. Sir Thomas and I will take care of Alyndar. Qwint, could you and Uteva try to talk to any of these 'Mudhound Mercs' and see what is going on?" Then he turns his attention to Alyndar, trying to figure out what is wrong. "Sir Thomas, set him down in the wagon and I will see what happened." [OOC: made healing check vs DC 22, rolled 13, +9 total bonus.]
Quint Thursday December 28th, 2000 6:37:25 PM
Quint Jumps off the wagon and into the mud, "UCK! well come along Sly." as quint takes his sword to the ready.
Sly Foxx and Luke Thursday December 28th, 2000 6:50:53 PM
"Right away, Sir Thomas". Sly reaches into the wagon, quickly get to his back pack,amd takes out the two New Very Sharp daggers. Then bends down to Luke, and lets the dog sniff part of the bisquit that Sly had offered to the female. "Smell Luk, can you follow this female scent? try hard,Boy. Try hard, Smell..." turning to Qwint,"Put away your sword, you'll start a mob riot. Here take this instead." Handing him the other Very sharp Knife, "This will be more of a silent wisper." Now they go toward the direction of that female, with the dog up ahead of them. the dog weaves in and out of the mob of people.
Claims to a Criminal (DM Jerry) d20=6 d20=15 Thursday December 28th, 2000 11:04:52 PM
One of the hunters raises a bow and fires it at the skinny girl. He misses (6). It hits a boy in line instead and an explosion goes off knocking the boy backward. He's out at least.
The hunter fires again. This time (15) he hits knocking the skinny woman back in the same way.
Just about this time, Luke lands on her chest growling the growl that all dogs use when they sense evil and fear.
The hunters gather around. The blonde bearded guy pulls up and says to Sly, "Do you claim this capture?"
He looks at him threateningly as if he might do something violent if Sly claims the capture.
Meanwhile, Alyndar shakes horribly and begins to cough up green spores. The healing check confirms that it is something magical.
Lok Mufflefoot Thursday December 28th, 2000 11:38:30 PM
Confused as to what is going on Lok runs after the woman trying to follow her through the crowd. Full well knowing that his friends were well equipped to cope with any dastardly people who would do them harm Lok tries to get to the root of it by following the woman as commanded. When she is struck, the halfling bends over and examines her thoroughly. With dagger in hand he looks back at the hunters with anger etched across his small furrowed halfling brow.
Trace and Radiant Friday December 29th, 2000 12:06:23 AM
Trace kicks his horse and barrels down after the girl. Seeing Sly searching over the girl, Trace moves his horse inbetween Sly and the blond guy. Trace draws his sword and ask, "What in the wold could this girl have done for you to hunt her down and kill bystanders in order to capture her. And to answer your question we claim this capture if we decide she needs to be captured. Lok, ask her if she caused Aly to get sick." Trace continues to talk while keeping a close eye on the blond guy. Trace then holds up his arm and calls for Radiant to land. Swooping in and causeing a disturbance Radiant lands on Traces forarm. Trace does this in order to show dominance. "Sly head back to the wagon and take Sir Thomas's spot and send him down here, he is more of a diplomat, you know me I am more likely to lop somebodys head off than talk to them."
Sly Foxx and Luke Friday December 29th, 2000 11:26:30 AM
Sly comes running up to the girl, sees that shes only out for a few minutes. Get up and steps on her hand and Tells Qwint,"Qwint step on her other hand, so she cannot make any jesters. I think she used some kind of magic." Then with the Very Sharp Knife, turns and faces the blond hunter. "Watch her,Luke." When Loc and Trace comes between that hunter and his captured girl, let's out a little sigh of releive. "Yes, Sir Thomas is the right one to handle this hunter, YES SIR!".
Qwint Friday December 29th, 2000 11:39:50 AM
Quint after getting to the sceen, and after Sly ask him to step on the other hand. Qwint will do so and take the stand with the Very Sharp Knife that he borrowed from Sly. *Hmmm, sharp on both side of the blade,very deadly.* He tells himself. after Loc and Trace get's there and they want Sir Thomas to take over, Quint will help pick up the girl,by the arm (under the arm pit and holding on to the hand), As Sly does the same on the other side. Qwint and Sly will grag the girl to the wagon, But as they are doing this. Qwint cannot help himself by telling Sly "Nobody messes with your meals, Right Buddy?"
Ilsidur d20+9=20 d20+9=23 Friday December 29th, 2000 12:53:40 PM
Ilsidur looks up at Sir Thomas and says, "Sir Thomas, before you take off, see if you can heal Alyndar. The disease seems to be some magical spore attack, but maybe you can help. And Sir Thomas, maybe your ability to detect evil might come in handy up there, to see who is and who isn't." After Sir Thomas tries the healing, Ilsidur uses his healing skill to see if it was effective [OOC: made skill check vs DC 20]. If the paladin could not help Alyndar, he says, "When you get to Trace, send him back with his potion of Heal All, and perhaps that would help." Then, while Sir Thomas is gone, he spends some time looking more closely at Alyndar, to see if he can figure out exactly what is hurting him, and if the Heal All potion would be able to help. [OOC: made another healing check vs DC 23, if necessary]
Sir Thomas d20=9 Friday December 29th, 2000 1:44:23 PM
Determined to do anything that will help and feeling the pull of responsibility in two opposing directions, THomas looks up at Ilsidur. "I will do as you say." THomas calls forth the disease curing ability that Alemi grants him one time per week. (cure disease) "I hope that was sufficient. Do you need my help here any longer?" Assuming that Ilsidur will say no and that he will call him back if the answer is otherwise, Thomas then stands and walks over the boy that got hit with an errant arrow. Thomas kneels beside the boy and asks Alemi to heal him. (Lay on hands, 10hp) He then looks up to a bystander, "look after this boy, I will come back to look after him in a few minutes." Thomas then walks up to the blonde man. "SIR!!" he exclaims, "I think you should reconsider your actions and the actions of those under your control, assuming you have any control at all. I am quite sure that there was a better way to handle this situation than to shoot innocent bystanders, but that is something that we cannot change. THis is indeed my friend SLy's capture, and we will be escorting him either to the guards or the jail. I think that the best way to deal with any dispute about this matter will be to bring the guards in to discuss the situation with us, unless you just want to leave it where it is. I don't mean to threaten yo sir, but someday someone is going to teach you some manners! Something you are seriously lacking." THomas pauses for only a second to share a look with the man who sits directly in front of him, too full of himself to lower himself to Thomas' level to speak. "Guards!! We need your assitance down here if you could spare the time." (Rolled 9, with a diplomacy skill of +7, and Cha of 18)
Sir Thomas d10=3 d10=3 d10=4 Friday December 29th, 2000 2:31:31 PM
(These are rolls for my new level's hp. I used a hero point for each of my first two rolls. so I now get 4+2 for my new level.)
Ilsidur Friday December 29th, 2000 6:57:00 PM
While Ilsidur is having the second look at Alyndar, assuming Sir Thomas' healing did not work, he will also try to assess the immediacy of his condition. Is it something we need to deal with right away, i.e. use Trace's potion, or is it something we can wait to get to a healer in the city, if the condition is stabilized enough. [OOC: I will use my healing skill roll vs DC 23 for this inspection. Jerry, if you need me to roll again, let me know.]
Priorities (DM Jerry) Saturday December 30th, 2000 3:38:58 AM
The efforts to cure and help Alyndar are not successful as feared. The spores seem to be similar to the yellow musk zombie spores, which may make the situation magical.
As the woman tries to retain consciousnes, she looks from one person to another in total confusion.
A younger member of the hunter group, a muscular redhead cleric answers your questions. "She stole magic from the city. We were contracted by the Guards of Northhook to capture her. Are you Winnie Hookhand?"
In her confusion, the skinny capture answers groggily, "Yeah, who wants to know?"
The blond hunter, anger etching his face, shuts up the cleric with a quick hand signal. He stares at each of you in turn. "You will pay for this in time. I never forget. The bounty on this one is great."
He wheels and gallops off berating his team for their incompetance.
A nearby woman shrieks. "Dancer? Oh holy Lemiac! My boy is dead!!!!! Nooooo! Aiiiieeeee!"
Alyndar throws up "cookies" mixed with spores. The healing efforts seems to have bolstered his strength to fight the disease, but not affected the disease itself.
Trace and Radiant Saturday December 30th, 2000 5:05:00 PM
Trace sheaths his sword and kicks his horse again to head back to Aly. Looking to Lok, "We need to get Aly inside quickly to find someone that can rid him of this quickly. I will make a path for us to enter." Calling back to Sir Thomas and Quint, "Bring that girl back to the wagon she will be our way into the city. Handing over the potion of full healing and another potion of healing to Uteva, "Here keep useing these while we make our way inside." Trace kicks his horse to move up in front of the wagon and then uses the horse to push people out of the way to make it up to the guards. "Guards, we must enter the city now. We have a bounty to collect upon the this girl that was called upon by the guards of North Hook." Giving enough time for the guards to move Trace begins to lead the group into the city. If there is protest Trace will reascess the situation and do what is nesscary to enter the city.
Sir Thomas Saturday December 30th, 2000 9:10:53 PM
As the blonde man turns to leave Thomas speaks up. "Good!! I am sure that since you are commissioned by the guards of North Hook that someone like myself will be able to find you very easily when the bounty comes in on your head for killing an innocent boy. I will be happy to collect that bounty when that time comes. I may even pass up any and all compensation for the simple pleasure of bringing in a lowly dog like yourself." Thomas lets his tone turn menacing as he calls after the retreating group. After getting in that very offending comment, Thomas walks over to the lady that is screaming. "Come with us ma'am, I don't know what to do now, but if I can help I will. Please, come with us and maybe we can find a temple or something that will help bring your son back." He then helps the boy to the cart and lays him very gently in it. He then does the same for Alyndar, and trusts that Sly and Quint can handle the offending woman. "IF someone will grab my horse, I'll do my best to drive the cart in." Thomas jumps up in the seat and when the guards move aside he snaps the reigns and off they go. As they start in Thomas comes up with an idea, "Ilsidur, do you think a dispel magic spell might take the effects off of Alyndar?"
Ilsidur d20+9=28 d20+9=13 Saturday December 30th, 2000 10:57:20 PM
Ilsidur answers Sir Thomas, "I think you are right, it will take magic to defeat this magical curse that has fallen on Alyndar. Perhaps a dispel magic, perhaps a remove curse. Soon I will be able to cast those spells, but not yet. We must get him to a temple for help as soon as possible. I have healing abilities that can sustain him for a while, but not too long." Then Ilsidur moves over to the young boy, to determine if there is anything that he can do [OOC: made healing skill roll vs DC 28}. After he is done with the boy (he will cast a Cure Light Wounds spell if he thinks it will help), he moves over to the captured girl, and looks her over using his healing skill (made roll vs DC 13). While he is doing that, he will search her to make sure she is weaponless, and to see if he can find this "magic" that she supposedly has stolen from the city, He will also inspect her left elbow, to see what interested the bounty hunter so much. Then he turns back to the party and says "We need to be careful who we upset here. We don't know the rules of this city, except that magic seems to be common (notice the bridge). I agree with Trace and Sir Thomas that taking lives of innocent bystanders is abhorrent, but maybe that's how things work here. Let's try not to uspet anyone that might be able to put us into serious trouble." Then he moves back to Alyndar's side, ready to cast a healing spell if he thinks it is necessary to sustain his friend.
Qwint- Ceil- Sunday December 31st, 2000 5:56:19 PM
Qwint sees how mad Sly is and goes to him saying,"WHO Sly, I was only kidding, I don't like what happen to Alyndar, BUT if you lend him your sleepingbag, you know the special one? I'll bet that it will keep him alive and going untill we can get into the City... How about it?"
Sly Foxx and Luke Sunday December 31st, 2000 6:09:27 PM
"OH! Yes! I'm sorry ididn't think of it myself. But you watch her real close and make sure she don't say any thing or use her hands in any way..." Sly goes to where his backpack is on the wagon and take out his bedroll(the magic one)and hands it to Ilsidur,"Here put him in this and he gain one point of life per day, that he uses it. Hope it will help." Turns to go back the the girl, But think better of it,"Tell me what do you want me to do with her? I don't know if she knows what she has done? or if she is under the same spell? Right now I want to harm her really bad. My Mother would slap me in the back of my head for thinking that way." Look at Alyndar with the saddest eyes.
Uteva Monday January 1st, 2001 7:12:29 PM
Horrified by the unfolding events, and feeling more than a little helpless, Teva jumps to answer Sir Thomas' request. She takes Camarron's reins and follows the cart. She passes Trace's potions to the dwarf. "Ilsidur, I have a Cure Disease potion in my pack, if you think that will help him. Though if Sir Thomas' spell couldn't . . ." She trails off, and bites worriedly at her lower lip.
Lok Mufflefoot Monday January 1st, 2001 7:19:11 PM
Taking Sir Thomas's horse for him the halfling looks a bit confused and follows Trace's lead. Not sure who to be angry at yet he simply follows along blankly. "We have money, I'd be more interested in whatever the story is behind all of this. Not some stupid bounty." With that Lok is quiet and follows indecisive as of yet.
Obstacles (DM Lee-Anne) Monday January 1st, 2001 8:53:08 PM
The wailing mother seems hardly to hear Sir Thomas' reassurances. She lets him carry the boy to the cart, then grabs him up again, hugging him to her and crying. "Dancer! Oh, Dancer -- no, please. I can't lose you!" It is apparent to Ilsidur, however, that the boy is beyond healing.
People call out curses at Trace as his horse tramples and shoves them. The clean, older woman just inside the gate loses her smile, but keeps her seat in the face of his demands. Two well-armed and immaculately uniformed guards step forward from their stations to stand at her shoulders. More of the Northook Guard appear, clearly barring the way in.
The woman spreads her hands on her small lap desk and speaks calmly. "Sir, if you have legitimate business within Hook City, then of course you will be permitted entrance. There are still the formalities to observe." She gestures for the elf to dismount. "Now, have you credentials to present?"
Sir Thomas pulls the cart up beside Trace just as Alyndar begins coughing again, expelling another fountain of the green spores over Sly and the bedroll. Seeing this, the two robed merchants at the head of the line drop their complaints and back up, wide-eyed. "The Green Breath," murmurs one.
Ilsidur finds that the skinny woman is badly bruised where she was struck. Inside her left elbow is a small purple birthmark, vaguely hook-shaped. She carries only a very short, sharp knife. Winnie becomes more alert and begins to struggle as she is dragged toward the gate. "No! I didn't do it! It's a frame up!"
Qwint's firm hold on her arm loosens when he suddenly doubles over in a coughing fit of his own, leaving Ilsidur to restrain the thrashing girl. Qwint straightens and regains his grip, saying, "I've got her." His face is pale, his lips flecked with green.
Trace and Radiant Monday January 1st, 2001 10:32:42 PM
Trace dismounts and retrives the letter from the wagon. "We have this letter here and we also have a bounty to collect from the guards in North Hook City on this girl. As you can see we also need to tend to our friends." Holding the reins to his horse and waiting for the letter to be returned to him Trace wiats somewhat eager knowing that his friends life is in the ballance. "I dont mean to be rude in pushing our way in but I feel that it is warrented with our emergancy."
Ilsidur Monday January 1st, 2001 10:53:22 PM
Ilsidur shakes the young girl. "Quiet, girl!" he hisses, "We aren't your enemies, nor are we your friends. We only need you to help get us into the city, then we will decide what to do with you. If you have been framed as you say, and you help us, we can help you back, at least to get out of the city. Certainly you can see by the way we chased off that bounty hunter that we are not to be fooled with, and that we don't agree with indiscriminate killing of bystanders. Now, why do the NorthHook guards say that you stole magic from the city? What exactly is going on with you?"
Once he has heard her answer, he turns to the rest of the party around the wagon and says, so the grieving mother can't hear, "I have the scroll that will raise the dead. I can use it to restore the life of this boy. Do any of you have strong feelings against me doing so? We have the rest of the day to decide, so think it over. It is not something that I would want to do in front of a crowd of people, but if we do decide to restore the life of her son, I can at least let the mother know, and then we can go somewhere quiet later."
Sir Thomas Monday January 1st, 2001 11:21:23 PM
"I'm for that Ilsidur. Let's revive the boy, but I'm awefully worried about our friend Alyndar, and Qwint doesn't look very well. I'm also worried about you catching this disease. Trade me places. I'm immune to all diseases, magical and nonmagical. I won't catch this thing." Thomas moves to switch Ilsidur places and grabs the girl before the cleric moves away to take the reigns. He holds her down very roughly, but has no intention of hurting her. "Settle down girl!! Innocents will not be punished by us. You will have your chance to speak, but you are not makeing a strong case by fighting us. Be still and we will listen to you, I promise." Thomas straddles her to help keep her down until she settles down. "Qwint, you should move away from this girl, I don't know what's going on, but I think you are catching the same thing that Alyndar got. I have this girl under wraps." Thomas wishes he could help with the guards at the gate, but he trusts Trace to do a good job convincing them that the group has business of importance inside their city.
Sly Foxx and Luke Tuesday January 2nd, 2001 11:40:56 AM
"Ilsidur use the scroll on the boy, I speak only for myself, BUT!" said Sly, as he looks back and froth from Alyndar and Qwint. "I think I can speak for for them both. Alyndar had a full and long life, he would be the first to say 'Give the boy a second chance to life'and Qwint, being almost the same age as I, would say'The boy first,I'll take my chances in getting a cure in the city.' As for my vote I say the Boy, What say you?" Sly turns and looks at the rest of the party.[if you look closely at Sly's face, you can see moister in his eyes. Remember Elves don't cry.]
Uteva Tuesday January 2nd, 2001 7:16:20 PM
Uteva relinquishes the horse's reins to Lok, and hurries over to Qwint. "How are you doing?" she asks, ducking under his arm and wrapping an arm around his back. She leads the warrior toward the cart, putting space between him and Winnie.
"Ilsidur, I think you should help the boy if you can." Teva props Qwint against the cart and watches the crying mother with haunted eyes. "That scroll came to us out of shared and healed grief, and it can serve no better purpose than to prevent more. Especially for an innocent killed senselessly."
DM Lee-Anne Tuesday January 2nd, 2001 8:16:54 PM
Winnie frowns and stubbornly refuses to answer Ilsidur's questions. She calms when Sir Thomas takes charge of her, as her struggles have no effect on the big man. Still, she keeps her mouth clenched shut.
In the cart, Dancer's mother continues to cry, still silently rocking the boy's body. Beside them, Alyndar stirs and opens his eyes. Qwint leans against the side, looking shakey. "I'm fine," he says to Uteva. "Just -- tired."
The woman at the gate accepts the parchment sheet from Trace and fits a sapphire monocle to one eye. She scrutinizes the letter carefully, then gives a satisfied nod. "It's a bit irregular," she says, returning the sheet to elf. "but the letter is genuine. You may enter immediately as de facto contracted employees of Sieur Alphais. The sick, however, cannot be allowed into Hook City." She smiles pleasantly and folds her hands before her.
One of the guards, the only one with a brush of plumes in his helmet, calls out to Sir Thomas. "If you've a bounty to claim from the Northook Guard, then present your claim to me. There's no need to enter the City for such dealings, nor to hold up the line."
Ilsidur Tuesday January 2nd, 2001 8:41:19 PM
Ilsidur leans over to the boy's mother and whispers, "Good lady, I think we can help your son. Give us a little while to get into the city and figure out what is going on with this captured girl, then we might be able to bring him back to you. However, you must keep silent about all of this, or we won't be able to do anything at all. Do you understand?"
Then he turns back to the captured girl and hisses, so the guards can't hear, "Winnie Hookhand, is it? Well Winnie, this is your last chance to talk to me, or we will turn you over to the big guard with the feather duster hat, and collect our reward. Give us one good reason for not turning you over, right now. I still say we can help you, if you give us good reason to."
Once he has Winnie's answer (or not, as the case may be), he shouts ahead to Trace at the gate, "Trace, could you ask them if there is a place of healing outside the city that we could take our sick, if they insist that we cannot enter with them?"
Sir Thomas Wednesday January 3rd, 2001 12:03:00 AM
Thomas uses a very harsh wispering tone, "This is rediculous!! But we will abide by your rules." He then calms his tone and prays aloud, "Alemi persuade them or guide our course." Thomas leans in to Winnie's earand completely lets go of her so that she is unrestrained but still underneath him, "We honestly mean you no harm. We are followers of Alemi and his like, and will honor the promise of the cleric Ilsidur." Thomas concentrates and looks into her eyes to detect any evil intentions that she may be emanating. (detect evil)
Sly Foxx and Luke Wednesday January 3rd, 2001 12:07:46 AM
Sly stand between the wagon and slightly behind the girl (so she knows that somebody there) Sly tell Alyndar to get into the sleeping bag, after Sly cleans it up a bit. "Then you can take a nap there." Then To Ilsidur," Be careful she has made two of our party, already. I don't want you or Sir Thomas to get it." Then whispers into her ear, But it will be your last victim."
Trace and Radiant Wednesday January 3rd, 2001 12:16:31 AM
"I will enter the city .. will Sir Thomas deal with this guard and does anyone want to come with me to find help for Aly and Quint?" Trace waits for answers or better suggestions before entering the city.
Lok Mufflefoot Wednesday January 3rd, 2001 7:38:15 AM
"I will help Ilsidur care for the sick" the halfling pipes up. Not willing to be part of any major decision processes, and very worried about his friends, the halfling well knew that Ilsidur would need help with the boy and their sick. Aside to Ilsidur he whispers so no others can hear "You'll need a strong halfling to protect you if you do need to save the boy." With that the halfling takes the horse reins firmly and prepares to tie them to the back of the cart so all horses could be led by the carts horse. If they were going to split up, his hands would be needed for more than simply holding horse reins.
Uteva Wednesday January 3rd, 2001 6:25:45 PM
Teva joins the ranger at the gate. "I'll go with you, Trace," she says, lightly touching his arm. "I would rather see our friends safe first, though. We could take them back to the Three Forks. Or --"
Hearing Ilsidur's request, she turns to the pleasant functionary. "Is there a place of healing nearby? Could we persuade a priest to come out of the city to help them?"
Her amber eyes narrowed, she turns to the fastidious merchants next in line. "What do you know about the Green Breath?"
DM Lee-Anne Wednesday January 3rd, 2001 7:21:52 PM
The mother quiets and finally seems to focus on Ilsidur's face. A spark of hope lights her eyes, then quickly vanishes. She shakes her head. "I have no way to pay you for such."
Sly's fussing with the bedroll jostles her back. She turns to see, and start's batting at the young half-elf's hands. "Here now. If he has the Green in his lungs, he won't thank you for trussing him up."
Winnie sighs and unclenches her jaw. "They say I took something -- big magic -- past the tax people. But look at me." She shrugs and directs her pleading gaze up at Sir Thomas. He can perceive no evil about her. "I got nothing. I don't toss powerful magic around."
The polite woman at the gate shakes her head at Uteva. "Anything outside these walls is no concern of mine. Your letter of reference will get you only one entrance to the City. Now, what's it to be?" Raising one eyebrow, she stares pointedly at Trace.
The robed merchants sidle closer to the woman, giving Trace and Uteva a wide berth. One gestures with an uncased scroll and starts talking about cargo manifests. His companion says, "Only that it's a coughing fever, madame."
Sly Foxx and Luke Wednesday January 3rd, 2001 9:09:57 PM
Sly let's the mother do what she want with the bedroll, and what she said #If he has the GREEN in HIS LUNGS#. "Hmmm" think Sly , then turns to Sir Thomas and the girl Winnie, "Just a minute Sir Thomas, there are only halve truth here. She admits that she has taken Or tuch something? But it does not bother her, She does not have the Green Breath. She only Passes it along." Then takes his arm, with the big knife in hand and bring it almost to her beautiful neck. Telling her "That's not all of it, there more? maybe even somebody else?" With a mean look in his eyes "YOU better tell us the whole TRUTH or you be needing more help than people around here want to give you." Sly's eyes has gone from sadness to Hate.
Sir Thomas Wednesday January 3rd, 2001 10:41:07 PM
In complete conflict about the situation, Thomas makes the choice that his heart tells him is right. I silently asks Alemi to be with him and his friends and then puts his hand between the knife and Winnie's throat. He puts his other hand on Sly's forearm. "Friend, you may be right, but threats will not resolve this situation under these conditions. We must make a choice about Winnie's fate, and we must make it now." Thomas looks Winnie in the eyes and with a very stern look he speaks loudly so that all, and especially the guard that they are to deal with about bounties, can hear him very plainly. "We have only ONE purpose in this city, and that is to seek out the man to which the scroll is addressed. Trace, would you be so kind as to accept the invitation into the city. We will be close by awaiting your return. Go quickly, you know the stakes. I trust you to do a good job." The word invitation drips from his lips as more of an insult than a compliment to the nobility of the city. Still looking at Winnie with no hint of false intent Thomas addresses the girl quietly again, "you are on a VERY short leash. You owe us, and we expect ALL of the story." He stands and leans in to Sly's ear, "I could detect no evil intent from her. I agree that there is more to this story, but losing her is not an option. She holds the key to helping our friends and we must get the answer. She will only tell us if she trusts us not to harm her or turn her in. She must believes we will use the information properly. We should treat her with more respect until she proves to us that she does not deserve it. Help me keep an eye on her if you will please. We will speak to her when we are out of the public eye." Thomas looks around at the mass of people standing around where all of the commotion had occurred. "Let's go somewhere else." If no one else is in the driver seat of the cart Thomas will take the reigns and get them somewhere more private to pursue the matter. IF the drivers seat is occupied he will request that they leave and sit next to Winnie and place a gentle reassuring hand on her shoulder, "We will not harm you and we will get to the bottom of this, if only you will trust us. By the way, I am Sir Thomas."
Uteva Thursday January 4th, 2001 6:09:44 PM
The slim bard turns back to the woman with the lap desk. "Some of our group wish to enter the city now, and some will join us when the ill have recovered. How can we arrange this without holding you up much longer?"
DM Lee-Anne Thursday January 4th, 2001 9:06:18 PM
The mother snorts when she hears Sly's words. "I never heard of a person giving someone Fallon's Breath. On the coast, the Green gets in the air after a heavy rain. He been near the sea lately?"
She lays her son's body carefully on the bed of the cart, dries her reddened eyes with her sleeve, and faces Ilsidur. "I'm Jancis. You say you maybe can help my boy. Well, happen I can help you friend, here." She bends over Alyndar and loosens his robes at the throat, then glances at Qwint as he coughs again. "Or friends. Ain't much can be done for the Green but make 'em comfortable and let 'em ride it out. They look healthy enough -- they should come through. But it takes mages hard, so they," and she points with her thumb toward the city gates, "are powerful scared of it." Pushing off the bedroll, Jancis begins to remove the elf's shoes.
Poor Winnie becomes wide-eyed with terror from Sly's threats. Tears of relief cut tracks through the mud on her face as she follows Sir Thomas in climbing to her feet. She positions herself so that the big man is between Sly and herself.
The gatekeeper nods calmly to Trace and Uteva. "I can do that, for an administrative fee of one white chit, payable when each additional group enters. I will need the names of each person in the group. Please speak clearly into the memory rock." She selects a smooth grey stone from the small pile on her desk and passes one hand over it. It begins to emit a soft lavender glow as she holds it up.
Most of the uniformed guards return to their posts at a signal from the one in the plumed helm. He remains, watching the activity around Winnie very carefully.
Trace and Radiant Thursday January 4th, 2001 11:01:30 PM
"Uteva give this lady the information that she needs, I can not wait any longer, I must go find Sieur Alphais dal Costo so that we can get help to our friends and gather information that we need." Without another word Trace mounts his horse again and moves into the city quickly heading for the center of town. When he arrives he looks to find another guard and ask, "Good sir, I am looking for Sieur Alphais dal Costo Through the offices of the Frosted Glass, Southook Cityscape. Can you help me in that direction?" If he is shown the way Trace makes his way quickly in that direction.
Sir Thomas Thursday January 4th, 2001 11:14:47 PM
Sir Thomas sits calmly surveying the crowd as the cart moves away to a more private location. "Let's not get too far away from this gate. When Trace comes back out we will need to be able to spot him. Also, since we have already made such good friends with those bounty hunters, we should keep a stout watch." When they are away from earshot of most people, and all people that would care, Thomas turns to Winnie. "Can you start at the beginning and tell us the whole story about why the bounty hunters are chasing you. Please include why they think it was you that took the magic and what the magic is. It's ok, you can trust us. We'll treat you fairly. Go ahead. Try not to leave anything out." Thomas sits and looks at her intently but calmly. He encourages her with nods from time to time as she recounts her side of the story.
Sly Foxx and Luke Thursday January 4th, 2001 11:45:11 PM
If you say that there's no evil in her, then i believe you. this is not magic then, Because Alyndar is a gray Elf, elves are imuned to magic of this kind. But I have a bad feeling, a real bad feeling." said Sly as hes putting away his very sharp knife, then winks at Sir Thomas, bends a little so that (Wennie) can see his face. "I'll be watching you, very very closely." then turns to Ilsidur "Is there any thing I can do?" Sly will make his friends comfortable, "Here, Mother Jancis, Let me help you.
Ilsidur Friday January 5th, 2001 12:38:02 AM
Ilsidur turns to the boy's mother and says, "I am Ilsidur Wayfinder, initiate of Marmathon Dur. I wish that we had met under better circumstances. Anything that you know to help us would be appreciated. Are you familiar with this disease? It does not seem to be a normal disease; otherwise my friend would be able to stop it." Then he calls ahead to Trace, "I suggest we move back up the road about a half-mile, to find a quiet spot for what we need to do, and to give Alyndar and Qwint a place to rest. Look for us back there when you come out with help." Then, unless the group disagrees, he leads them back up the road to find a quiet spot alongside the road. Whne they get there, he asks one more time, "I plan to use the scroll to try to raise the boy. Are there any objections?"
Uteva Saturday January 6th, 2001 12:06:48 PM
A little startled by his abrupt departure, Teva calls after the ranger, "Trace, wait for me, you stubborn male!"
She rushes to dictate the groups' names into the rock. "I'm Uteva Nerine, and that was Trace Jacobs. We'll be entering right away. The other elves are Sly Foxx and Alyndar Rainfelt. Lok Mufflefoot is the halfling. The humans are Sir Thomas Hurley and Qwint Edsa, and Ilsidur Wayfinder is the dwarf."
The brunette turns to acknowledge Ilsidur's dirctions with a wave, and bounces on the balls of her feet while waiting for the woman to finish her paper . . . ah, her rock-work.
As soon as she is permitted, she says a hurried thanks and runs to catch up with Trace. "Whatever happened to the legendary elven patience?" she asks, glaring at him.
Back Through Mud City (DM Lee-Anne) d20+3=17 Saturday January 6th, 2001 2:01:31 PM
As the group wends, slurps, and churns its way back to the quieter outskirts of Mud City, Qwint's condition worsens. He leans weakly against Sir Thomas in the driver's seat, and his cough deepens.
In the cart's bed, Alyndar appears to be unaware of the people around him. His body curls up tightly whenever he coughs, and there are soon green spores stuck to the mud that coats everything and everyone. Jancis removes most of Alyndar's clothes and asks Sly to find her some strong drink.
"It will help ease the coughing," she tells Ilsidur. "They'll run low fevers off and on, and probably get a rash. The best thing for 'em is to stay cool and breath dry air. Cared for right, the worst of it will pass in a few days. They'll be weak as kittens for some days after, though. Priests can't do much more for Fallon's Breath without powerful magic."
Winnie follows meekly, keeping as far as possible from Sly and Luke. When the group stops, she answers Sir Thomas. "Look, I don't know why the Guard think that. Best I can figure is it's a frame. Or a mistake. I ain't done nothing wrong." (3D characters who are listening to this may roll Sense Motive vs. DC 17 to know that she is lying.)
Just as she finishes, a familiar mounted figure emerges from the crowds, followed by the rest of the Mudhound Mercs. The bearded blonde glares at Sly and Sir Thomas. "Well, who is committing crimes this time? Aiding and abetting a known criminal." He tsks incincerely, shaking his head. "Such a shame. But I might be inclined to overlook it if the little elf cedes his claim to me." He grins and fingers the hilt of his sword.
Strange Customs (DM Lee-Anne) Saturday January 6th, 2001 2:46:44 PM
Trace's route is cut off as the guards reassemble, pike's at the ready, to block his way through the partially open inner gate. The plumed officer follows him and says in a firm, but reasonable tone, "No one passes this gate on my watch without the proper clearance. Greams!" A young guard stiffens and steps forward. "See this gentleman" he drawls the word, "through Customs. I believe he'll bypass the baths."
Behind them, the lady speaks a few terse sentences into the memory stone before passing her hand over it and setting it down. She chooses a small card from those stacked before her and says a quiet command word. After a few more more words, she hands Uteva the card, covered with blue glowing words. "Your companions will be issued a separate pass card when they enter."
The bard catches up with Trace as Guard Greams leads him to a long table, behind which stand a man and a woman, both middle-aged and robed. Behind them, rows and rows of small shelves are filled with rounded stones like those on the gatekeeper's desk. "Pass card please," says the man in a bored voice. His carefully arranged, greying curls bounce as he holds out his hand.
The woman rolls her eyes. "If you'll just dismount and set your backpacks and saddlebags on the table, we can begin. Do you have any magic to declare?" She hands the young guard a slim wooden rod.
Sly Foxx and Luke (Mud City) d20=10 Saturday January 6th, 2001 7:08:08 PM
Yes, Mother Janis." With this said Sly will jump onto the wagon and crawl to the back and under the seat of the wagon. There was some new and older wine. "OH! what to take. Well, if Alyndar (after tasting the wine) Don't yell at me, and he falls asleep, it will be the right wine." Coming back to Mother Janis and giving her a bottle of the Wizard's wine. Jumps off the wagon. Sly spots the Tall Bearded Blonde pain, and he is coming toward them. Walks to Sir Thomas, "Here comes trouble! I think if you put the girl in back of you and I will also stand in back of you and a little to the side so that i can use some magic." Then Sly turn to Loc,"I think we will need you here,Loc." As Sly points toward the company coming down on them. And he listen to what Blond Goatee has to say.
Trace and Radiant Sunday January 7th, 2001 11:32:08 AM
"For the love of Mittiri! Are we going to have to do a dance also to get in?" Trace continues to grumble as he takes off his back pack and pouches. "I have no magic other than myhealing potions." Trace watches as they rummage through his pack and pouches. Turning to Uteva, "Sorry about that back there but I didnt think they were going to let us both in. To tell you the truth my elven patience is running thin. I have never seen such trivial activities as this to enter a city." Trace stands and waits with arms folded.
Sir Thomas d20=8 Sunday January 7th, 2001 2:44:21 PM
"I don't think this horses' *&^ is going to leave us alone. Winnie that is NOT the answer I wanted to hear. My patients is running thin." Thomas' voice becomes very stern, but not menacing or threatening. He grabs her arm, not roughly, but so that she can not easily run away "Do you understand that we are risking ourselves and our frineds for you . . . a stranger and believed criminal who we have no obligation for. Do you also understand that we want to do the right thing and that you are making it more and more difficult to do that. If you give us no other options than to hand you over to this bounty hunter then that will be on YOUR head, not ours. To avoid this consequence, you need to tell us EVERYTHING about the last few days that might concern you with being mistakenly identified or what ever it is that got you into this mess. I believe that you have a good heart or we would not be risking our futures, but there is much that I don't understand about the situation. You have only a few seconds to answer. I will go deal with blondie. You had better tell Sly everything you know our your fate is out of our hands. Do you understand me? We want to help you, but you must help us to understand . . . WHY have they picked YOU?!?" Thomas' interrogation gets a little heated at the end because he knows that the time for answers has again become short.
He hands Winnie's arm over to Sly. "We are very short-handed friend. I will do my best to avoid conflict, but I can not promise that result." Thomas strides out to meet the approaching group of mercenaries and on the way tries to determine their intent with Winnie. (Detect evil in the groups direction)
Thomas tries to intercept the group well in advance of the cart. Thomas stands boldly in front of them at attention. In response to the leaders threat Thomas speaks calmly and tries to invoke all of his skill as a diplomat. "Pardon me sir, but I think that we got off on the wrong foot. I am Sir Thomas Hurley, messenger of Alemi, protector of justice. I believe that we may have similar intentions with this girl Winnie, but I don't believe that all of the correct questons have been asked in order to get to the bottom of the situation. We may be inclined to give you Winnie, but it won't be because of your strong-arm techniques. I don't believe that Winnie did what you say she did and so to simply give her to you without doing my best to evaluate the situation would violate the code by which I live. My friend is looking into the matter that we are discussing." Thomas pauses to evaluate the efect of his words upon the group and their leader. Before any one of them can speak, even if he must cut them off Thomas will continue. "I'll tell you what. Why don't you get down off your horse and we will discuss our options. For instance, we will over-look you and your men killing an innocent boy, if you over-look our aiding and abiding a known criminal. Let's talk this over like true gentlemen so that we can come to a conclusion that is consistent with both the law and what is right in the eyes of our most precious lord Alemi." (Diplomacy roll of 8 +10 = 18. made vs DC of 18)
Ilsidur (in Mud City) d20+4=12 Sunday January 7th, 2001 10:02:09 PM
Ilsidur lets Sir Thomas deal with the mercenaries, while he tries to make Alyndar and Qwint as comfortable as possible. He looks up at Jancis and says, "What kind of powerful magic is needed to help my friends? Is it some sort of magical disease that is resistant to a normal priestly 'cure disease' spell?"
He overhears what Winnie says to Sir Thomas, but is too busy with his sick friends to take much notice [OOC: missed the Sense Motive roll]. He is leaning more and more to turning the girl over to the mercenaries, given how uncooperative she is being. Once he can see that Jancis has the care of his partners well in hand, he climbs down from the wagon and moves over beside Sir Thomas, ready to back up his friend if needed.
Uteva (Hook City) Monday January 8th, 2001 3:12:58 PM
Teva hands the card to the Customs agent and shrugs out of her pack. "I have potions, too," she says, thumping it onto the table. She opens it and starts digging inside, pulling out vials one by one.
She grins at Trace. "Look at it this way: it's an opportunity to repack your gear more efficiently. Hmm. Maybe I should start carrying some of these at my waist, Trace. They'd be easier to reach in an emergency."
"That's everything," she tells the agent, pointing to her little pile of potions. "Oh! And there's these." Teva covers a ruby-pommelled hilt with one freckled hand. "My daggers have some magic in them."
Strange Customs (Hook City) Monday January 8th, 2001 4:07:43 PM
The Customs man accepts the card and reads it carefully before turning to busy himself with the shelves of rocks.
His partner efficiently searches Trace's pack, quickly locating one potion that glows a deep red, and another with a faint white glow. She lines these up beside Uteva's pile, now also glowing in an assortment of red and white shades. "Yes, set your magical weapons here as well, please," she says to the bard, and moves on to search her bag.
Greams approaches Trace with his rod. "This will only take a moment. If you would just hold out your arms, please?" He sweeps the rod through the air around the elf's body, as though painting him in broad strokes.
The coiffed Customs man returns with a pair of memory stones in his hand. "Has either of you ever visited Hook City before?"
A chime sounds from the Guard's rod as it passes near Trace's sword. The young man gulps and flushes, darting a quick glance at the ranger's expression. "Ah, Sieur. Is it at all possible that your sword, or perhaps the scabbard, has a magical dwoemer?"
DM Lee-Anne (Mud City) Monday January 8th, 2001 7:02:13 PM
"Don't let him fool you, Sieur Thomas!" Winnie shouts, shaking her fist at the hunter. "Hook law don't reach farther than the city walls."
Then she sort of slumps in Sly's grasp and drops her voice. "I had to do it; they got my brother. Just take it past Customs, they say, hand it over to the contact. And I done that, quick and easy." She shakes her head. "Now I get back and there's a bounty on me. I don't know how the Guard found out." She shakes her head and looks at Sly, pleading, "They have my brother!"
Among the four Mercs, only one heart shows evil in Alemi's light. It belongs to the dark-whiskered archer who sits behind the blonde, apparently more intent on cleaning his fingernails than on the conversation.
The blonde laughs unpleasantly and responds to Sir Thomas. "I propose a different arrangement. You release the girl to me, and I collect my bounty. I might be willing to cut the elf in for a percentage. Say, ten percent, for bringing her down. Then you and your fine principals can take up your doubts about her guilt with the Northook Constables." He drapes his crossed wrists on his saddle-horn, showing no signs of dismounting.
Jancis answers Ilsidur absently. "Don't rightly know. Just that our local priest suffers the Green same's everyone else." She stares at the dark archer, her hand clenched around the neck of the wine flask.
Sly Foxx and Luke Monday January 8th, 2001 9:18:10 PM
"I see," said Sly,"I knew it, theres is more. Your brother is a captive, and you must do them a favor. Now that you did the favor for your brother, they'll know want to kill you? Hmm sound like an a game, get the package out, then kill the captive and the messenger. Nice real nice. Tell winnie which one of these dum dum do you think is in on this?" (Sly will prepare Magic missles.) Luke growls and is restless. "Picking up anything odd among our friends? Sir Thomas".
Sly Foxx and Luke- Mud City- Monday January 8th, 2001 9:20:00 PM
Sly and luke is in Mud City.
Lok Mufflefoot Monday January 8th, 2001 9:30:05 PM
Lok tries to comfort those who are sick. The halfling asks Jancis bluntly "Do all die that get it? Any common features of those that don't". The halfling pats the poor dead boy carefully and watches the situation with little idea more of what to do.
Sir Thomas (Mud City) Monday January 8th, 2001 9:52:45 PM
Relief washes over Thomas at the blonde man's initiative not to fight. "I applaude your efforts to be civilized about the situation sir. I will consult Sly, the elf that made the capture. It is afterall his bounty to negotiate. I will get his wishes on the matter and I will return to consult you very shortly. On my honor." Thomas makes a slight bow of respect and returns to the cart. He speaks in low tones, but not a whisper. "What is the story Sly? Winnie?" Thomas pauses to get the revealed information. "It appears that you did commit the crime, and for that you owe. However, being forced into such a situation presents awkward circumstances. Fill us in, tell us everything and we will do what we can. I don't know the punishment for your actions, but by the way we have been treated this far I don't think you will deserve what they have in store for you. Ilsidur, will you please make sure Winnie doesn't go anywhere? I must speak with Sly privately." Thomas pulls Sly aside far enough that if they use low tones Winnie won't be able to hear. "Sly, she was your collar, and these men want her. It is your decision where to go from here. I can not make this decision for you, but I will say this. No matter what you decide I am beside you, and I will also do my best to help catch whatever crook is into making people sick if that is what you decide. Understand that we have many options here, but that we are in a bind since she did what she is accused of. They want an answer, and if you say they can't have her, then they can't. If you want to escort her in and hope that we can buy enough time to track down the real crook, then we will do that. If you want nothing to do with this then we will worry about our friends and wait for Trace and Uteva. Choose quickly my friend, but choose wisely. This girl is not a bad person and her life is probably in your hands." Thomas waits patiently for his friend's decision, but looks uneasily at the dirty group of mercenaries.
Ilsidur (in Mud City) d20+4=13 Tuesday January 9th, 2001 12:57:22 AM
Ilsidur listens closely to Winnie's tale of woe, trying to figure out if she is finally telling the truth (sense motive roll vs DC 13). He takes hold of Winnie's bonds and moves back to the wagon while Sir Thomas and Sly discuss things quietly, knowing that he will back them in their decision. He looks into Winnie's eyes and says sternly, "You better hope that you are telling the truth now, and that my friends believe you. If there has been injustice done to you, we will try to help, but you just better be telling us the whole story now. Who has your brother? Who was your contact outside the walls? What did you need to carry outside the walls, and how can we find it now? If we can return it, we might be able to clear your name."
Then he turns around to Jancis, and whispers a question. "Do you know the dark archer? You seem to be watching him with some trepidation. Why?"
Trace and Radiant still at the gate! Tuesday January 9th, 2001 8:23:51 AM
"Yes forgive me on my sword, I didnt think this would show as magic. It is supposed to be able to hold a healing spell but I have yet to apply one to it. Just out of curosity why must you know what magic we are carrying since it is clear that the whole town has magic?" Trace lays his sword on the table handle first for them to inspect.
Uteva (Hook City) Tuesday January 9th, 2001 4:30:44 PM
Setting her matched pair of magical daggers on the table, Uteva answers, "Trace hasn't been, but I was here as a child." She frowns, thinking. "Perhaps twelve years ago."
DM Lee-Anne (Mud City) Tuesday January 9th, 2001 5:37:16 PM
Winnie shakes her head. "I won't tell you who has my brother. They'll kill him for sure if I roll. Same for the contact. I'm sorry; I told you all I can. As for these guys --" She looks puzzled and hurt. "-- how would I know who's in on it? I didn't even know the deal was blown until I heard they were lookin for me."
"Look, all I did was cheat the city of some tax revenue. If they take me in, I'll be punished -- maybe mutilated -- and banned from the city. That'll make it real hard for me to help my brother. If you help me get away from the hunters, you don't break any laws and nobody gets hurt." The skinny young woman seems sincere.
Jancis turns to Lok, surprise on her face. She snorts. "Die? Nobody dies of Fallon's Breath, unless they were feeble when they caught it."
To Ilsidur, she says, "That inhuman devil killed my boy. In a just world, he'd be punished for it."
The hunters wait, watching all carefully. Only the redheaded cleric shows any signs of impatience.
Strange Customs (Hook City) Tuesday January 9th, 2001 5:39:07 PM
Trace's sword emits a yellow-green light as it comes in contact with the table, and Uteva's daggers glow reddish-orange. Greams answers Trace. "The city levies a tax on any magical profits you take when you leave." He finishes sweeping Trace, Uteva, and the horse's tack, then returns his rod to the Customs woman.
She surveys the items piled on the table, then accepts a memory stone from her partner and activates it. "Trace Jacobs and Uteva Nerine, entered carrying magical goods assessed at a value of one green, one yellow, and 2 red chits."
The customs man watches Trace with narrowed eyes, but replies to Uteva. "It was thirteen years, actually," he says, brandishing one of his rocks in her direction. He waits for the woman's assessment, then sighs. "Very well. You may remove your belongings. He hands the card back to Uteva, along with a small map. "Your patron has twenty days to confirm your employment. Until then, you have the run of Hook City. Enjoy your stay."
Greams waits to escort you to the inner gates.
Sly Foxx and Luke (Mud City) Tuesday January 9th, 2001 7:40:57 PM
"Sir Thomas, I understand what your trying to tell me, But I don't like the idea of them coming back at us again. I fell uneasy, please hear me out. I'm having a strange feeling, we have two of our party how are sick, unable to fight. Then there is two who are going into the City, unable to be here to fight. Also two who are taking care of the sick, maybe they will or not to fight. That leave the two of us, who are standing up to them. Are you getting the same felling that they are trying to separate US? Beside Luke does not like the Archer in the dark clothes, the one on the horse behind the Blond Stone Head." Sly turn leans over to grab Winnie's wrist and pulls her to him, whispering in her ear "Go along with me and maybe we can help you and your brother." Then back to Sir Thomas, Sly tell him "Let's bluff,and tell them that she's my slave, and I have been without one for a while.(Winking at Sir Thomas) I think that will hold them for a while, and hope that they don't come back." Then Sly holds Winnie wrist with one hand and put the other hand on the hilt of his sword. To himself will now get his magic ready and hope he won't have to use them.
Trace and Radiant .....hopefully makeing there way into the city! Tuesday January 9th, 2001 10:16:14 PM
"I guess, well lets get a move on we have bussness to attend to." Trace gathers his things and repacks his back pack and sheaths his sword. He then follows in behind Greams. Once given the go ahead to enter Trace mounts and pulls Uteva up on the horse with him and then makes his way to the nearest guard in the inner city. When he arrives he looks to find another guard and ask, "Good sir, I am looking for Sieur Alphais dal Costo Through the offices of the Frosted Glass, Southook Cityscape. Can you help me in that direction?" If he is shown the way Trace makes his way quickly in that direction.
Sir Thomas (Mud City) d20=9 Tuesday January 9th, 2001 10:51:06 PM
Thomas takes a sigh and bows slightly to Sly, "I am getting the exact same feeling that you are, and I will do as you wish. I will do what I can to convince them that she is your slave, but you must be ready to speak up if I need you to. Also, be prepared to treat her like your slave, and make it believeable. Let Winnie in on the plan. I hope Alemi is with us today, but if he isn't Domi will be." As he returns to the waiting mercenaries Thomas steps over by Ilsidur, "I hope Marmathon Dur is strong today."
THomas strides proudly out to meet the men. "I apologize for the wait and commend your patience given the situation. Unfortunately, my friend Sly says that he has already taken the girl Winnie as his slave. He says it is his right according to the customs of his land. He is apparently very taken with her as well because he does not want to give her to you. He is very stubborn and will not relenquish the girl, and if that is his wish then it is also mine. I am sorry, but you will have to leave without her. How much is the girl worth to you? Maybe we can come to an agreement with you for your troubles. I'm sure that you are reasonable men. I hope that we can be civilized and work this out like gentlemen." THomas words his reply so as to avoid lying, but feels as though he is being too nice in the negotiation considering the self-involved men he is dealing with. It is at this time that he remembers the words of Sir Galdin, **One can never be too nice when trying to get what one wants. Be respectful and polite. Show a willingness to be flexible, but at the same time let the other know that you mean business or they will walk on you.**
Ilsidur (in Mud City) Tuesday January 9th, 2001 11:41:14 PM
Ilsidur can see that Sir Thomas and Sly are planning to keep Winnie away from the mecenaries. As he moves forward to back up the two of them, he whispers to Jancis, "It looks like your 'just world' is about to take place after all. I doubt if these mercenaries are going to be leaving so soon, without their target. I only hope that no-one else gets hurt that doesn't deserve it." Then he casually picks up his waraxe and shield and moves towards and a little to the right side of Sir Thomas and Sly. He whispers in Lok's ear, "Why don't you lose yourself in the crowd, and be ready to jump that archer from behind. If he has any more explosive arrows, we definitely don't want him firing them around."
Uteva (Hook City) Wednesday January 10th, 2001 1:58:42 PM
"Good day to you," Teva calls, as she scrambles to reassemble her gear and mount up. She stares curiously around the city, comparing the reality against her child's memories of the place.
She shows the map to Trace as they listen to the guard's directions, and whispers quietly, "I suggest we find a priest, first, Trace. Alyndar and Qwint need help now."
She smiles at the guard and continues more loudly, "Could you also direct us toward a temple where healing is available? Thank you so much."
The Marble Causeway (Hook City) Wednesday January 10th, 2001 3:23:16 PM
The view beyond the gates is breathtaking. Before you stretches a wide boulevard paved in cloudy white marble, lined on both sides with marble statues of every description. Buildings of elegant design and opulent materials face the street, and everthing is immaculately clean. Straight ahead, the Hooks and the broad expanse of the Bridge dominate the center of the city, commanding attention and awe by their height and shear size.
The immediate area is thick with trimly uniformed soldiers and well-dressed functionaries. Dressed in filthy travelling gear and mounted on a very muddy horse, Trace and Uteva look decidedly out of place.
Trace easily locates a helpful guard. "Well, I don't know the Frosted Glass, myself, but I believe it's on the western side of South Shore Cityscape. Once you've crossed the river, someone should be able to direct you."
"As for temples, the City of Magic has many such, madame. The larger complexes are all in Southook. You can see the spires once you've passed the Bridge. There are more modest places of worship along the Marble Causeway. I, myself, attend services at Lemiac's local church." He points toward a large, domed structure a short distance down the street. "Welcome to Hook City. May you profit from your stay." The man sketches a quick solute and continues on his way.
Possessive in Tension (Mud City) Wednesday January 10th, 2001 3:25:35 PM
The Mercs tense up as Sly and Ilsidur ready their weapons. The dark-whiskered hunter casually disappears his dagger and unslings his bow from over his shoulder. The fellow with the orange staff studies those left behind in the wagon.
Their leader, however, looks interested, and seems to relax even more. "Well, I can understand your friend's choice, if not his taste." Winnie quakes a bit in Sly's grasp, though her face remains blank. "The Northook Constabulary offer a blue chit bounty on the criminal's head. If it's worth as much to you to keep her, then perhaps we can avoid a confrontation."
Sly Foxx and Luke (Mud City) Wednesday January 10th, 2001 7:04:25 PM
Sly turn to Winnie and tells her,"You heard Sir Thomas, by you action you must act like a slave, you most not look anybody in the eyes when spoken to, you must also do what is slave work during the day, I'll give you a dagger for you to hide later on for your protection and at night you will sleep between me and Luke, You'll be safe, us Elves only need four hours of sleep per night. Don't worry Elves also can see in the dark. Starting now ... say yes Master, then go stand with Mother Jannis. If trouble arise hide under the wagon with mother Jannis." Turning back to Sir Thomas "Let's see how much of a bribe, the Lusty Blond wants. If worst comes to worst I have my magic ready, and the Archer get it first. If not I only have 1,000gp. Try not to sped it all, Please Sir."
Sir Thomas (Mud City) Wednesday January 10th, 2001 11:19:34 PM
Not having eyes in the back of his head, THomas doesn't notice his friends making their threatening advance. HOwever, he does see the mercenaries make theirs. He does not overlook the blonde and his easy-going nature in this tense situation. "I am not familiar with a chit, or whatever you claimed to be her worth. Speak to me in terms of money and maybe we can do business. I'm certain that we can come up with 10 golden lions for each. That is each except the black hair who is lucky to be alive after his murderous rampage earlier." As the tension of the situation rises, Thomas lets his own outward appearance remain hard and unreadable. He tenses his muscles and lets them relax. His warrior's wits want to take over, but he fights them back telling himself that it isn't time for that. (OOC: Just out of curiousity, how many mercs are there? What is each of their positions? As many details as possible please.)
Lok Mufflefoot Thursday January 11th, 2001 2:20:29 PM
Lok begins trimming his nails quite carefully with his mean looking dagger. Looking at the mercs from just slits in his eyes the halfling attempts to be as intimidating as possible. In his right hand he occasionally tosses the silver ball and he quietly comes to stand behind Sir Thomas as if to give some credence to his words.
Uteva (Hook City) Thursday January 11th, 2001 5:12:18 PM
"Let's try the temple. Alphais can wait until Alyndar and Qwint are taken care of." When they reach the domed building, Teva slides out of the saddle and waits to see if Trace will come inside.
She approaches the first person she sees. "Good day to you. Some friends of mine have come down with the Green Breath. Can you tell me where I might find someone to help them?"
Possessive in Tension (Mud City) Thursday January 11th, 2001 5:13:19 PM
Winnie scowls at Sly and looks ready to argue, but turns and stalks back to the cart, where she mutters something quietly to Jancis.
Blondie smiles genially. "Chits are money in Hook City, my friend, and your gold is of little use to me. Besides, a blue chit is worth the casting of a spell of moderate power. What you just offered would hardly cover the simplest cantrip."
"As I said, the bounty on the thief is great."
"Now, I judge you by your speech and symbols to be a man of honour. If you have not the means to recompense us at this time, I will take your word that you will make the payment within twenty days. Or if you prefer," he gestures toward the man with the staff, who sits beside the dark-whiskered man, "my companion tells me that you've magic of sufficient value in yon cart. We will be satisfied with a fair trade."
The nervous redhead beside Blondie draws breath to interrupt, but shuts his mouth when the leader glares his way.
Trace and Radiant in Hook City Thursday January 11th, 2001 6:58:18 PM
Trace dismounts, assumeing there is a place to tie up his horse outside then makes his way inside with Uteva. Leading Uteva in Trace quickly looks for a preist, "Do you sir offer healing services? We will pay what ever you fee is with in reason but we need you to come with us to mud city since the guards at the gate will not allow our ill to enter." If the preist agrees Trace will lead him back to mud city and head for the meeting place arranged earlier. If not Trace will inquire where a preist is that will travel outside the city walls. In either situation Trace hurries the situation along as he feels that his friends lifves are slipping away.
Sir Thomas Thursday January 11th, 2001 9:07:17 PM
Thomas gets a quizical look on his face and replies politely, but with some attitude. "Ok, let's get this all straight. I'm not sure we all have the situation under control. We captured the girl Winnie. She is ours to do with as we please while we transport her into the custody of the Hook City guards, but we have more pressing matters to attend to until we complete that task. She will be punished for her crime, but that will have to wait. With these simple facts out of the way, I am wondering how it came about that we should be compensating YOU for OUR property. I was simply offering to you a slight compensation for your time and trouble, but you came up empty handed. I did not intend to give you the entire bounty, I mean let's be realistic here. So in all fairness, I feel that what I have offered is more than fair, it is polite and respectful. This seems to have all gotten mixed up somewhere, but I assure you that my intention is not to anger you, but you should never look a gift horse in the mouth." Thomas pauses and then adds a bit more seriously, "I am a man of manners . . . and more importantly, I am a man of honor, to every word."
Karryl (Hook City) Thursday January 11th, 2001 9:16:07 PM
The exterior of the temple is elaborately carved, and the domed roof is tiled in a pattern of red and white. Just inside the door, a young initiate waits to greet visitors. ""Welcome to Lemiac's house," he says. "If you'll wait here, I'll fetch the priest.
He returns shortly with the priest in tow, and introduces her as Karryl. She has curly blond hair and wears a simple grey gown with Alemi's ruby at her throat. Her dimpled smile is warm and friendly, but she looks startled by Trace's concern.
"The Green Breath? Unless your friends are very old or young, or weakened in some other manner, they will recover on their own with the simplest of care. The illness takes a handful of days to run it's course, then the victim needs about a week to recover."
She purses her lips, considering. "I can remove the magical illness from two people right away, with Lemiac's grace. More would have to wait until tomorrow. A donation of one blue chit per curse removed would be appropriate, and I'd like an additional red chit for each trip into Mud City."
"Are you sure you want me to do this?" Karryl dimples again. "I'm happy to help, if you feel it's worth the cost. I'll send my initiate for a mount." She waves the young man over and murmurs a few words.
Sly Foxx and Luke (Mud City) Friday January 12th, 2001 11:39:37 AM
Sly backs a couple of steps and yells at Winnie, "WOMAN, COME HERE!". Sly waits for Winnei to come to him (all the time keeping his eyes on the Mud Party) when Winnie stands in frount of him, Sly takes his dagger from his belt and hands it to her, wispering" I think we are about to have a little fight over you. So take this knife and hide under the wagon. I hope we can avoid this." Then yells at her again, " WOMAN, I'M HUNGRY, GET ME SOMETHING TO EAT!" Then Sly take his position he had before and bend down to pet Luke, "Easy Boy! wait your chance, then go for the horse. Wait a little longer." To Sir Thomas and Loc (near by) "I'm ready."
Trace and Radiant in Hook City Friday January 12th, 2001 9:38:30 PM
"I agree with your terms, I is very important that we have them a full strenght" Trace pulls Uteva up on his horse and leads in full gallop showing the way for the preist.
Ilsidur (in Mud City) Saturday January 13th, 2001 1:00:20 AM
Ilsidur steps up beside Sir Thomas, and says, "We don't owe you anything. My friend has offered you something to cover your lost time. Take it or leave it. And then just leave. We have other things that we need to attend to, and we don't have any more time to stand here discussing your supposed claims. Enough is enough."
Uteva (Hook City) Saturday January 13th, 2001 11:34:54 AM
Teva smiles at the priestess when they reach the gates. "It's good of you to help us," she says. "Thank you."
"Trace, don't run down the nice guards with their pikes, please."
Precipitous Departure (Hook City) Saturday January 13th, 2001 11:44:53 AM
Karryl follows on her large pony as Trace leads her through the gates. The Customs agents insist on performing their duties again, and not surprisingly, Trace and Uteva's goods are assessed at the same value as they were just minutes before.
People and animals dive out of the way as the mounts plunge through Mud City. All three riders become thoroughly mud-coated.
They emerge from the crowds 120 yards NW of the rest of the party. Trace and Uteva can see that their friends are facing off against four mounted riders.
Fortuitous Arrival (Mud City) d20+5=16 Saturday January 13th, 2001 12:05:04 PM
Winnie comes to Sly's call, looking absolutely furious. Standing with her back to the Mercs, she shouts, "You have a lot of nerve!" while slipping the dagger into her sleeve and winking at Sly. She stomps back to the wagon.
The blonde man's face reddens, and he raises a hand to signal, but pauses when something catches his attention. He and the dark archer, along with most of the party, see Trace as he emerges thunderously from the nearby crowds.
As the three riders approach, the bearded leader relaxes again and drawls, "As you say, she is your catch. If you intend to claim the bounty after all, then we have no quarrel with you." He picks up his reins, and the mage and cleric follow suit. "But should you let such a valuable prize slip from your grasp, be sure that we'll be nearby to hunt her down."
The Mudhound Mercs ride back into the crowds as Trace and Uteva arrive, followed by an unfamiliar woman who looks slightly out of breath.
Sir Thomas (Mud City) Saturday January 13th, 2001 2:31:41 PM
Sir Thomas holds his tongue despite wanting to further insult the man with more comments about his poor manners. In the words of Sir Galdin, *Discretion is usually the better part of valor.* WHen the mercenaries have riden away Thomas takes a big sigh, "Whew," he thinks to himself *Alemi must have been standing right behind me.* He turns to his friend standing beside him, "thanks Ilsidur. I wasn't sure they were ever going to leave, and they left without a fight." He pats Ilsidur on the shoulder and looks to Sly, "Good job to you also my friend. Quick thinking is a good trait to have. Now, back to business."
Thomas greets Trace, Uteva, and the unfamiliar lady as they approach. "Alemi stood with us today because your timing could not have been better. You helped us dodge a fireball. Welcome back." He turns to the stranger to greet her, "welcome, I am Sir Thomas." He then looks at Trace again. "I'm going to talk to Winnie while you help our fallen." Thomas then strides over to Winnie. "Please sit down because you have quite a bit of explaining to do. I want the story from start to finish. I want a description of exactly what you carried out of the city and your contact and anyone else involved. I am not joking. We put our lives on the line for you and it is time for you to pay us back the favor so that we can help you. If you don't fill us in you will only be hurting yourself, because you are the one that will have to bear the guilt of your actions and those hurt as a result. Now please be as cooperative as possible so that we can help you and your brother." Thomas sits down on a large rock to listen to her story.
Sly Foxx and Luke (Mud City) Saturday January 13th, 2001 7:33:15 PM
As the four Mudhound Mercs ride away, Luke barks at their heels.(as if to say don't come back). Sly pets and smiles at Luke and tell the dog,"That's it Luke scare them off." Then to the Trace and Uteva, Sly waves and yells," Here Come Our Big Brother and Little Sister." Turns to Luc and Ilsidur, "Thank you, the both of you. I though we were going to have a fight, and you two was too busy to help." Then to Winnie," That was very close, you better have a long talk with Sir Thomas and I mean a very productive talk." Then to Sir Thomas,"It was to you, that I was reacting and your ideas were fruitful. I will say a special thanks Alemi tonight. Please try to get the full story (pointing to Winnie) this time." Muttering loud enough for Sir Thomas to hear," That girl remind me of my Sister, a pain in the mutter mutter." Turn to greet the new comer with his friends.
Ilsidur d20+4=21 Saturday January 13th, 2001 10:08:33 PM
[OOC: I presume since we are all together, we don't need to do the location thing anymore.] "Good timing, Trace and 'Teva. I am fairly certain your appearance has stopped a more dangerous confrontation."
Then Ilsidur moves forward to greet the newcomer, whom he recognizes as a fellow priest. "Well met, good lady. My name is Ilsidur Wayfinder, initiate of Marmathon Dur. Two of our companions have fallen sick, to what this good lady (pointing to Jancis) refers to as the "Green Breath". My friend Sir Thomas has tried to magically cure the illness of one of these two, but with no effect. We would appreciate any help you could give us. I suggest we move away from the crowds and the lineup and find a quiet place to work."
Once the party gets away from the crowds, Ilsidur carefully takes the boy's body out of the back of the cart and lays it on his cloak. He looks up at Jancis and says, "Good lady, I am going to try to use a magical spell from this scroll to return your son to life. I am an inexperienced initiate, so I am far from certain that it will work. However, if Marmathon Dur will grant me the luck I need, I am hopeful things will turn out alright. Since part of the process requires that your son's soul desire to return to his body and this world, it would likely help if you were to cradle him in your arms while I cast the spell, so that he can feel your love, and make it easier for his soul to return." Once Jancis has taken hold of her son's body, Ilsidur says a short prayer to Marmathon Dur for luck, then reads the scroll, directing the healing energy into the boy's body. [OOC: Ilsidur made caster level check of 21 vs. scroll creator level 9+1. Compare 21 to 10.]
Uteva Monday January 15th, 2001 7:03:25 PM
Teva greets the others calmly. "This is Karryl, of Lemiac's church," she says. "She has agreed to help in exchange for a donation."
Once the party has moved to a quieter area, she slides down from behind Trace and leads the lady to the cart. "Alyndar showed symptoms first, and more violently, and Qwint is also sick."
As soon as she gets the chance, she pulls Sly aside and demands, "What has been going on out here?"
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