The Price of Success (DM Lee) Thursday June 21st, 2001 10:20:37 PM
The last of the web burns away, Bear breathes his last, and the young hyena disappears. Uteva's friends find that the bard is beyond all possible healing.
Ilsidur locates many magical dwoemers in the area, but all of them prove to be localized around his friends, Bear, and the globe-lights suspended from the ceilings.
Sly Foxx and Luke Thursday June 21st, 2001 10:51:23 PM
"Is the fight over? I hope some one will give Uteva a potion Because I set fire to the web. I wish I had a Dispel Magic Spell." Said Sly as he cram back into the Dumb waiter and up he goes again to pick up the orc alive he hopes.
Ilsidur (electricity resisted, blessed, magic weapon) Friday June 22nd, 2001 7:59:51 AM
Ilsidur hustles over the the bard's side, and quickly check for signs of life. Not finding any, he looks up to the rest of the party and says, "I'm afraid she's gone. Nothing we can do will bring her back. We need to get her to a nearby friendly church; they may be able to help us bring her back."
Then he looks at the last spot Void was standing before he disappeared. "Now, you headless freak, you must know that you have made yourself a target, and we will hunt you down and kill you without fail."
"Sir Thomas, can you make Uteva's body as comfortable as possible, while I make the best use of the rest of this Detect Magic spell? Ael, could you come with me and help me collect the items?" Then he hurries around the Inn, checking all the dead (and the one live) orcs for signs of magic, and collecting the items that register positively with Ael (assuming he comes along). If the spell runs out, Ilsidur will use his other detect magic spell to finish the search.
Ael (SeeInvis, DetectMagic) Friday June 22nd, 2001 9:07:29 AM
Ael nods to Ilsidur, and mumbles, touching his fingertips to the sides of his head. (Casting Detect Magic on himself.) "I will assist you, my own detection is now active."
The mage does not seem to perk up, even at the mention of searching out magical items.
Alyndar d8+5=6 Friday June 22nd, 2001 9:14:56 AM
drops out of the Webbing when the fire touches his robes, pats out the little fire it causes, the scoops himself up, pops another clw potion and drinks it, healing himself of all the fire damage he took.
Aly mourns the loss of Uteva in his own way, not by tears, but by other means the group will find out about later. Aly goes back to where the chest and Kevil is parked, and drags the chest back to where the group is gathering at.
says: ALL of this crap began because of this DAMN chest, I want to see what exactly cost the life of one of our friends.
with that, Aly attempts to open the chest. (if Aly has to go and find a crowbar, he will, he is determined to have that chest opened by the time Ael and Ilsidur returns).
Sir Thomas Friday June 22nd, 2001 10:17:20 AM
"No" is all that Thomas can think. His actions speak the same as he stares blankly at Uteva. "I will do as you ask Ilsidur." He sheathes his sword and puts his sheild on the ground to free his hands to be able to pick the woman up. He cradles her in his arms as if she were a baby. "Alyndar. Be careful opening that chest. I thought Chloe told us it has a firetrap on it. Let Lok try first." Thomas looks at Trace as his friend hovers just over the ground. "Friend. This is my suggestion. Take Bear's body to the warehouse and show it to the captured orcs there. Explain to them that there is a price on their heads as well as Void's. Then release them to carry the word."
Thomas walks toward the door, getting a head start for the temple of Alemi. He addresses the group from over his shoulder. "I'm going to the House of Alemi. Meet me there when you are finished. I met some people there this afternoon that may be inclined to help. Will someone please grab my shield for me? "
Thomas then pleads with Alemi in a prayer as he walks. "Hold your judgement Alemi. We do not wish to be finished with this one's company just yet. But if you must, judge her fairly." After closing his prayer he begins to appologize to Uteva for his inability to save her. Tears begin to stream from his rapidly aging eyes, but Thomas manages to hold back the sobs of his sorrow.
Lok Mufflefoot d20+9=24 d20+9=29 d20+9=20 Friday June 22nd, 2001 11:49:15 AM
So struck with grief the halfling nearly doesn't catch Alyndar before he goes after the chest. With care the halfling says "We don't need somebody else dying". Fearing that the chest were trapped Lok preferred that he be at risk than his friends. At least he'd have a better chance against the trap. Pulling his lockpicks from his belt pouch the halfling first searches the chest thoroughly for any signs of traps or anything dangerous (search check 24). Then he carefully attempts to disable any traps that he encounters (disable device 29). After completing this, he attempts to open the lock (20).
After he is done, the halfling offers "Do you need help carrying her" he sniffles.
Angels at the Gates (DM Lee-Anne) d100=50 d100=19 d100=44 d100=3 Saturday June 23rd, 2001 1:03:45 PM
Lok does, indeed, find that the chest is rigged to set something off when the lid opens. He manages to anchor the trigger wire to prevent this. The locks are another matter, and he recognizes when he tries to pick the first that the two mechanical locks are very well made (DC 30). The third resembles the magical gem-locks that Madame Chloe seems to favour; the only obvious way around it is Alyndar's crowbar idea.
Ael and Ilsidur between them find a few magical items on their fallen opponents. Sly's prisoner wears a pair of bracers with a moderately strong aura. He glares when these are taken, but doesn't speak. They find a magical brooch pinned over Brod's heart, and a full potion vial that looks to have fallen from his lax hand. In a pouch tucked inside his shirt are the 452's champion group card with its glowing magical writing, and 5 white Hook City chits, along with some mundane coins. Bear's boots, and 4 white chits in his pocket, also have magical dwoemers.
Four living orcs remain in the area, including Sly's spellcaster and the thief near the concealed door.
The Obscuring Mist gradually disperses from the lobby, and most other spell effects fade away. (Bull's Strength will last well into the night.)
A man's tenor voice calls out from the street, "Non-combatants entering the Challenge area! Don't fire -- we're unarmed!" A man and a woman swoop in through the broken front door to hover at height in the lobby, apparently held aloft by the hand-sized wings fluttering at their ankles. The pair wear flowing white tunic and trousers, blond ringlets, and cherubic smiles. Framed against the stained-glass swan window, they make quite an impressive sight. "May we approach?"
Alyndar Saturday June 23rd, 2001 5:03:52 PM
Aly looks up at the sound of the flying people and goes to see them. He stands next to uteva's body.
Sly Foxx and Luke Saturday June 23rd, 2001 7:24:08 PM
Sly gets out of the dumbwaiter and walks over to the Orc prisoner and takes his bracers off of him. "I know you don't like me for taking these things from you, I want you weak in magic power as possible. Now You Will Come With Me." Sly pick up the wounded Orc and carries his down the stairs. As Sly steps in the foyer, Sly hears a voice that want to come in side. Sly look out side and his mouth hang open, as a male and female comes flying through the broken front door, "Bbby aallll means ccccooommme in." Sly will call Luke to him.
Luke hears his master call, and run to his side.
Altemia, Tara, and Kevil d8+1=8 Sunday June 24th, 2001 9:14:59 PM
Altemia watches as the two come flying in. Reaching into her belt pouch, she pulls out a CLW potion and quaffs it, never taking her eyes off their new guests (8 hps). Kevil moves closer to Altemia and rubs his head against her thigh. Tara moves closer to Uteva's body, sensing that she can no longer protect herself if need be.
Sir Thomas (bull STR 21) Sunday June 24th, 2001 10:36:59 PM
When Thomas hears the two figures announce their non-combatant status he stops heading for the Temple of Alemi. He makes sure he is out of the challenge area so that he cannot be attacked if it's a trick. He continues to caress Uteva's lax body as if it were a cobweb that he didn't want crushed. He looks at the two white-clad figuers and listens to what they have to say.
Ael (SeeInvis, DetectMagic) Monday June 25th, 2001 9:10:58 AM
Ael finishes the search for magic items among the fallen and living, and glumly walks out to observe the newcomers.
He does, however, seem moderately interested in the contents of the chest...
Trace and Radiant d8+5=13 Monday June 25th, 2001 11:03:24 AM
Trace removes all valueables from Bear. He then puts on the boots and bracers that he was wearing and looks to the others. Trace takes out a clw and drinks it down(gains 13hps) and notices that he has only two left and makes a mental note to do more shopping soon. "I am going to wear these while I take Bear to the others. When I return I will take them off and we will decide what to do with them. Maybe we can sell enough of this stuff to afford a raising for Uteva." With that, Trace lugs out the troublesome trash back to choles place. There he throws bear down onto the floor and makes the orc's look at him on their way out. "You all now have prices on your heads. For the life you have taken from us and many others and for all the trouble you have caused. What short life you have life will be filled with the haunting of us tracking yall down. Go now and tell the others includeing Void. Were comeing." With that Trave continues to hover over Bear while the orcs leave. After they leave he will lock Bears body where the orcs were kept untill they know what to do with it.
I'll Take That (DM Lee-Anne) Monday June 25th, 2001 6:38:21 PM
"We represent Celestial Life Assurance," says the blond man, holding out one of the by-now-familiar glowing employee cards while his companion occupies herself with a tiny needle and a delicate thread. "One of our clients has recently perished in this locale and we've come to collect his remains."
"There he is!" The woman points at Trace, and the two insurance agents glide back out the door after the ranger. "Wait up, sieur!" They come to a stop in front of Trace, and the woman gestures to indicate Bear's corpse. "We'll just take that off your hands, if you please."
Sly Foxx and Luke Monday June 25th, 2001 7:55:24 PM
Sly watches the blond man (with card in Hand) and hears him say something about collect some remains. Sly wonders about all this as he look toward Lender and the rest of the party. Then he see Steve laying there so still, "Alyndar is - - - is Uteva a sleep or is she - - - no - - - not not DEAD! Please tell me she's all right."
Luke sitting next to master starts to howl a mournful cry, "oooWWWoooo!"
Alyndar Monday June 25th, 2001 9:59:31 PM
Runs to Trace and the 2 unusual people and says:
Actually, before you can take possesion of his body, you must 1, show us proof what you say is true and 2, provide us with compensation. We are the victors of this challenge and I do believe to the victors go the spoils, and this orc is part of that spoil.
Aly motions for Trace to take Bear's corpse back to the group in the Bath house.
And, until those in charge of discharging this challenge, you are not authorized to enter the area until the challenge time has lapsed.
Trace and Radiant d8+5=13 Tuesday June 26th, 2001 8:04:50 AM
Trace moves back over by the group and lays down Bears body and lets Aly handel the situation. Radiant tired of standing watch over the door returns back to the swan and lands on Trace's shoulder badly bleeding. Trace speeks softly to Radiant strokeing his feathers while he searches for another clw. When he finds it he will feed the potion to Radiant, (a slight glow seems to come from Radiant as the postion gose down gained 13hps to max his 8)
Sir Thomas Tuesday June 26th, 2001 1:57:02 PM
Thomas stops waling toward the House of Alemi when the two make their announcement. His face contorts in anger, but Alyndar seems to have things well under control, so he simply stands in the street for second. Then deciding what his priorities are, Thomas turns to continue on his way to get Alemi's help. he calls over his shoulder. "I'll take care of Uteva, if you guys take care of this." Thomas disappears into the night with Uteva's body, clanking in his armor the whole way.
Ael d'Gaiaim (SeeInvis) Tuesday June 26th, 2001 3:35:54 PM
Ael listens intently to the dialogue between his comrades and the two newcomers. He walks over to stand next to Aly (assuming that the gathering of the spoils is complete), and frowns.
"Are we to understand, Sir and Madame, that Bear, this Orc, has taken a policy with your establishment, or has had one taken on his behalf? If so, I must admit to a lack of experience with such legal matters, such as to whom 'ownership' of the body in question devolves upon death."
Ael raises an eyebrow and awaits a response.
Altemia, Tara, and Kevil Tuesday June 26th, 2001 3:54:58 PM
Altemia sees that other members of the party seem to have the matters well in hand. She sets up base near the chest and sends Kevil and Tara off to watch over the rest of the Swan. She just doesn't trust Void not to try and return.
Lok Mufflefoot Tuesday June 26th, 2001 4:35:31 PM
The halfling seems too distraught to be worried with the newcomers. He comes to Sir Thomas's side and supports Uteva's head as they walk. Sniffling he says to the life insurance people "Your client is a piece of dung and we need to find somebody of the clergy that could help our friend if possible. Now get the heck out of the way."
Lok seems irrational and irritable, and the tears rolling from his eyes speak far more than his words.
Companionable Quiet (DM Lee) Tuesday June 26th, 2001 7:00:43 PM
The insurance agents exchange a look, then flash identical, cherubic grins. "That's an interesting interpretation of the law," the man says. "However, I think you'll find the court monitors don't agree. If you insist that we wait until the Challenge is over, it is only civil that we do." The pair retreat across the street, where they sit on a public bench to share a sparkly pink-skinned pear.
The night wears on with no further interruptions at the Swan.
Meanwhile, Sir Thomas and Lok arrive in the temple district deep in Southook. Already somewhat familiar with the place, Sir Thomas leads the way across the night-hushed grounds of Lemniac's temple complex. An acolyte on duty in the outer nave of the grandiose cathedral approaches as they enter.
"Lem's peace to you, sieurs," she says in a rather loud whisper. "We've knight candidates keeping vigil this eve, and I beg your quiet. What brings you to the temple so late? Is your friend ill?"
Sly Foxx and Luke Tuesday June 26th, 2001 8:33:45 PM
Sly hurries to Alyndar side and waits his turn to speak. Then ask of the the ole grey Elf, "What happen here? Where is Uteva? Who are those two people? Did I do something wrong?" Dew is starting at the corner of his eyes. Then Sly tells Luke to be quiet.
Alyndar Wednesday June 27th, 2001 12:04:02 AM
Aly comforts Sly and says: no, you did nothing wrong. That Bastard Void cheated as usual and Lok and Thomas has taken Uteva to the temple to be Healed. Come with me back into the Swan and help me clean up.
Trace and Radiant Wednesday June 27th, 2001 12:43:32 AM
Trace turns to the others, "What if we dismember Bear in a manner that would make it impossible to revive him? I don't think there are rules about that and it is still in the challange time. I don't want to take care of Bear again, he has nearly killed me twice and Sir Thomas once along with Altimea also. I say we chop him up and use the fire pits upstairs and have a Bear of a fire." Realizeing how violent this is Trace tries to understand what he is saying but his desperateness for ridding himself of the ruthless killer keeps on driving him to finish the task of getting rid of Bear.
Sir Thomas Wednesday June 27th, 2001 8:19:44 AM
Sir Thomas looks at the lady of the cloth with his sad eyes. "My lady. My name is Sir Thomas Hurley, devote follower of Alemi's justice. I'm sorry to call on you at such an hour, but my friends and I were involved in a little skirmish this evening and my dear friend was struck down. We require your help to bring her back to walk among the living. She is very dear to us and we'll pay any price you name." Then Thomas adds as a second thought, "You can bring her back can't you? Her name is Uteva Nerine."
Ael (SeeInvis) Wednesday June 27th, 2001 10:37:32 AM
The mage grumbles at being ignored by the Assurance Agents and turns to Trace. "I do not believe it would be prudent to destroy the body. First of all, even if we hold ownership, it would look bad for us to not defer to the authorities in the matter. We do not wish to alienate the law enforcement in this city. And secondly, would it not be well for us if he were questioned posthumously about the...less legal...acts we believe him to have comitted?"
He frowns even deeper than usual and glares at the agents across the street. Almost inaudibly, he can be heard to grumble "Damn Arrogant Elitist Cantrip-muddling Agents."
Ilsidur Wednesday June 27th, 2001 12:49:05 PM
[OOC: Lee-Anne, please don't have the night progress until the group at the inn have decided what to do with Bear's bodily remains.]
Ilsidur moves up to Trace's side, and gives Bear's body a good, solid kick. "I am only sorry you and I never got to dance," he says to the corpse. He looks up at Trace and says, "Congratulations to you and Sir Thomas for removing this piece of otyugh-dung from the planet. But you are right, Trace, this leads us to the problem of how to make sure he stays removed from our fine world.
"There are three ways I can see that can be used to raise Bear. The first is the Raise Dead spell (5th level) which requires the body be almost completely intact, and must be cast in the next 8-10 days. The second spell is Ressurection (7th level), and requires only the tiniest part of the body that was attached when Bear was killed, and can be cast any time into the near future (years away). So, if the "insurance agents" could get ahold of the least bit of ash left over from burning up Bear, this spell would work. The final method is the most powerful: True Ressurection (9th level), and does not require any of the body present at all; only the knowledge that the target creature is indeed dead. I say that we have little opportunity to stop the last two spells from taking place, but we can certainly stop the first one (Raise Dead), just like so."
Then Ilsidur takes out his axe and cleanly severs Bear's head from his body, and takes the head over to the stove in the kitchen. He prepares a fire and cremates the orc's head in the stove, collecting the ashes in a small jar. "To the victor belong the spoils, and I claim these ashes as a trophy of our defeating Bear the orc." He moves over to Trace and presents him with the jar. "A token of your victory; you can carry it with pride." Then he shakes the ranger's hand. "Now, I think the "insurance agents" can come and collect the remains, as the law seems to demand. Is that alright with the rest of you?"
"Just to let you all know; there are spells that make it impossible for raise dead and ressurection to occur, but they are all very high level, and would likely be very expensive to purchase on a scroll."
Dissing the Dead (DM Lee) Wednesday June 27th, 2001 7:59:09 PM
At the Swan, the cherubs in the cheap seats grow quite agitated when Ilsidur removes Bear's head. The woman flitters off somewhere while the man approaches to hover within 10' of the front door. He gesticulates wildly to get Ael's attention and waves the wizard closer. "Sieur, sieur! A moment, please." The man looks rather pale beneath his blond locks. "You asked earlier about the law. I am not qualified to advise, but --" He hesitates, looks swiftly around. "-- your fellow Champion is mistaken. You no more own our client's remains than you own your prisoners. You open yourselves to serious legal repercussions by, ah, disturbing his corpse." He checks the empty street again, then retreats to his little bench.
Ilsidur finds fuelwood handy to the hearth, and begins stoking the fire.
In the temple district, the acolyte nods sadly and leads the two grieving friends deeper into the temple. "Was she killed in Challenge? The priest will try to help as they can," he says, his voice, and the three sets of footsteps echoing crisply down the long passage. "There is no one available at this hour, but you can leave her here safely." The room he indicates is one of several, each with a plain stone bier in the center, a narrow bench, and a single wall sconce for a torch. "When you return to speak to the priests, you'll need to bring the Revue of Challenge. They'll also ask you for an accounting of your friend's death and a donation -- one blue chit, or thereabouts."
Alyndar Wednesday June 27th, 2001 8:31:16 PM
Aly comes running in, tells Sly to dump Bear's corpse outside in front of the guy on the bench. Then makes a beeline to Ilsidur, snatches the head from him before he can react, and then rushes outside and hands the head to the Male Cherub. Then turns around and goes back in to start explaining things to Ilsidur.
Calms Ilsidur down then begins to talk to him.
Look, all they need is a tidbit from him to rez him, whether you burn him to a crisp or not. Do we want to start reverting to our enemies standard by desecrating the dead or do we want to be 1 step or more ahead of them and respect our Honor? I am sorry if my decision angered you, but he is right, I was wrong. Bear made an agreement with these people in case he died and they are just following the letter of the contract. It's better we just let them take the corpse and be done with it than to prolong things.
To the rest, As for Uteva, she is on her way to the Temple now, and she should be back with us within a couple days, she may have fallen tonight, but she will return to our sides shortly.
All in all, we performed Honorably and succeeded in our contest, yes, Void got away by cheating, but he is still gone. And there will come a day when we will meet him and we will extinguish his flame once and for all, as well as Bear's.
Aly then goes back to the chest, after hearing that all the traps have been disarmed, and pulls out a crowbar and breaks open the locks, then opens the chest and looks inside.
Alyndar Wednesday June 27th, 2001 8:31:44 PM
Crossbow = Crowbar
Sly Foxx and Luke Wednesday June 27th, 2001 8:45:27 PM
Sly feel a little better and wipes the dew out of his eyes with his sleeve. "Are we going to take this orc along with us? I wish that Sir Thomas waited for me, I still have two potion of healing and one of extra healing Left? I could have help a little. I'll bring Sir Thomas shield with us. Come on Luke, let's go to the warehouse." Sly, Luke and the wounded Orc will follow Alyndar to the warehouse.
Trace and Radiant Thursday June 28th, 2001 12:31:23 AM
Trace thanks Ilsdur for the gesture and gives him a big hug. Then he takes the head and body of Bear and drags him across the street to the collectors. "Here is your contract and beware, you bring this filth back alive and he kills one of my friends, I will come and question you."
Sir Thomas Thursday June 28th, 2001 2:16:15 AM
Thomas responds politely to the acolyte. "Yes ma'am, she was killed in challenge. An unfortunate thing that evil can and often does manage an upper hand despite the odds against it." Thomas lays the limp body on the brier that the acolyte indicates. "Thank you for your help. I have a few questions for you if you will set my mind at ease please. What time should I come back in the morning to speak with priest? Where will I be able to get a copy of the review of challenge information? How long do we have to raise the funds equivalent to a blue chit? Do you accept other forms of payment than chits, like gold or trade of service, or trade of merchandise? I appreciate your patients." Thomas remains quiet in respect of the acolyte's request to do so for the vigilant guards. Thomas begins to find a reasonably clean piece of clothing to wipe his hands on so that he can shake the acolyte's hand when they finish their business.
Altemia, Tara, and Kevil Thursday June 28th, 2001 3:53:00 PM
Tara and Kevil come back to where everyone else is and lay down next to one another. Tara licks at the small cut that Kevil received.
Altemia, seeing that Alyndar is attempting to open the chest, goes to help. She really wants to know what has brought them so much pain.
Dead Deal (DM Lee) Thursday June 28th, 2001 9:08:52 PM
The insurance agent looks warily from Bear's body to the angry elf before him. "Ah." He licks dry lips. "Just so. Well then." He pats about himself, finally coming up with a memory stone and another glowing ID card. "Here is our authorization to claim the remains of Bear of the CP 452. We'll just -- ah." He checks up and down the street again, then slumps back onto his bench. "I'll just wait here for my associate."
At the temple, the quiet acolyte ushers Thomas and Lok from the room. She locks the door and whispers a command word. "There," she says, leading them back toward the main entrance. "The ceremony to dedicate the new paladins is in the morning. You might catch one of the priests just after Matins, but they won't have time to do a raising until afternoon. Unless it's really urgent, afternoon might be better. The form and time of any donation is at the discretion of the priests. Explain your situation to them; they will at least listen. As for Challenge documents, they come from the Office of Champions, I believe."
The woman smiles gently and stops at the front threshold. "You both look tired. Get some rest. And come to the dedication ceremony if you like -- it's a renewing celebration. Alemniac's blessing on you."
Sir Thomas Friday June 29th, 2001 10:12:51 AM
Thomas smiles appreciatively, but it does not cover the signs that he is still very upset about Uteva's death. "Thank you for your help. May I ask you your name?" Upon receiving the acolytes name Thomas thanks her and blesses her. "Thank you very much for your help, (acolyte). May Alemi smile upon you and judge you fairly. We will return tommorrow afternoon with the required information. Come on Lok, let's return to the others." Thomas places a reassuring hand on the halfling's shoulder, then bows to the acolyte and leaves the church as quietly as one wearing half plate mail can. His form is quite intimidating as he enters the night. His armor reflects the streetlights from various spots that are not covered with blood as he returns to the swan.
Sly Foxx and Luke Friday June 29th, 2001 11:28:39 AM
Sly still following Alyendar, Sly remarks,"These things are getting heavy, Luke is getting dirty and I'm getting hungry. Got any cookies on you, by chance?"
Luke follows Sly, because Luke heard the word Cookies, and know what means. "Arf Arf."
Ilsidur Friday June 29th, 2001 12:40:58 PM
Ilsidur shakes his head. "I think the decision will come back to haunt us, but Trace, it is your decision to make. I support you in your choice."
Then he moves to the doorway of the inn, to wait the resolution of the insurance agents and what Sir Thomas was able to find out at the church.
Alyndar Friday June 29th, 2001 6:26:16 PM
Looks inside the chest.
Alyndar Friday June 29th, 2001 6:27:14 PM
OOC Sly, why are you following me to the warehouse when in fact im in the place we fought with the chest opening it? OOC
And Dawn Brings . . . (DM Lee) Sunday July 1st, 2001 4:33:41 PM
It takes some work, but eventually the chest is broken open to reveal the contents: a delicately constructed suit of half plate armor and matching small shield, decorated with a prominent heraldic device. The designs are done in green and black, and it looks as though the colour is part of the metal itself, rather than applied. For all that the metal is worked very thin, the armor weighs as much any other suit of half plate.
When the second insurance agent returns, she and her companion carry Bear's remains aloft and away. Sir Thomas and Lok leave the acolyte, Claida, and rejoin their friends some time later.
The night at the Silky Swan passes without further incident. Dawn brings a small mob of clerks and Captain Berru's familiar patrol. "Well, it looks as though you folks came out on top!" Berru looks particularly cheered by the sight. "How did you fare in your Challenge."
Sir Thomas Sunday July 1st, 2001 6:40:40 PM
Thomas arrives and reports to the group that "Uteva's body is in good hands with Claida, an acolyte of my lord Alemi. She thinks we will need to donate one blue chit to have Uteva raised. Also, we will need to present papers of the challenge. They are dedicating the new paladins in the morning, so we can't even begin asking questions of the right people until tommorrow afternoon. We will have to be patient on this point my friends. What has been going on here?" Thomas waits to be filled-in actively by going to retrieving his shield from Sly (I think), and he offers thanks accordingly.
Upon Berru's arrival, Thomas sneers but does not get nasty in saying, "It was never about being on top Captain Berru. It was always about making this city a safer place for the people to live in. Apparently we were fighting a battle that could not have possibly be won no matter what the outcome. But I have two questions for you. What time and in what office can I get documents that will review the challenge? I believe they are called the revue of the challenge. Also, where can we go to exchange gold for a blue chit?" The fatigue of the fight shows brightly in the paladin's eyes and face and tone of voice. He tries to remain as cordial and polite as he can, but he has very little patients for anything as the sun rises.
Alyndar Sunday July 1st, 2001 9:44:57 PM
Aly closes the lid on the chest when he hears the Captain approaching. 2 escaped, 3 if you count the fact that the one we know as Bear had an insurance policy and 2 cherubs came and took his body away.
We did lose 1 in our battle, but this afternoon she will be returned as long as we can come up with a Blue Chit.
Aly will answer whatever the Captain asks to the best of his ability, then asks Sly to help him with the chest and returns to Madame Chloe's house to clean up, and sleep.
Upon waking after the sleep, Aly will memorize the new spells (list to be sent later), eat, and then meet with the rest to go to the church and see about getting our friend raised.
Trace and Radiant Sunday July 1st, 2001 10:59:42 PM
Trace fills in Sir Thomas about what is going on and how their troubles with Bear might not be over. As the clerks move in Trace simply ignores them and helps with the chest. "I will take the chest back to the wharehouse and get some rest. Later this afternoon we need to sit and decide our next move."
Altemia, Tara, and Kevil Monday July 2nd, 2001 5:51:10 AM
Altemia looks at the suit of armor when the chest is opened. She hopes to be able to tell something just from looking at it.
When Sir Thomas shows up she watches him and Lok closely, knowing that they had a hard time turning over Uteva's body.
When Sir Thomas mentions needing a blue chit, Altemia speaks up. "We got some white chits off the bodies of some of the orcs. It is only fitting that they should have to pay part of the cost."
At the mention of taking the chest back to the warehouse Altemia volunteers to help.
"I'll go with you Trace. I need to get some rest too. Besides, we need to do something about the orcs still there."
Altemia whistles lightly and calls the two wolves to follow her.
Ael d'Gaiaim d20+12=29 Monday July 2nd, 2001 9:41:19 AM
Ael brightens as the armor is revealed. He moves close, looking it over. (Arc Know roll above to identify the material and possible construction, etc.) The mage mumbles, "Gaiaus, my Master, was famous for working with magical alloys...I wonder, have I seen him working with this before?"
Sly Foxx and Luke Monday July 2nd, 2001 9:42:29 AM
Sly was standing next to Alyndar, when he saw the Armor and shield. Sly stand there with his mouth open. But when Sir Thomas said that Uteva's body was in good hands, Sly (with tears starting to roll down his cheeks) turns to Alyndar, "Elder Alyndar, you have never lied to me before. Then I am responsible for Uteva's death." Sly hands Sir Thomas shield to him and slowly follows Trace and the chest to where ever they are going. Luke senses that something is wrong with Sly and will follow.
Ilsidur Monday July 2nd, 2001 4:22:23 PM
Ilsidur approaches Sir Thomas and says, "Thanks to you and Lok for taking care of Uteva. I think our first goal now is to get her back, at whatever the cost. However, we lost Bear's body to some local 'insurance' agency. It may be we have not seen the last of him. I'm certain we haven't seen the last of his brother, Void."
He moves over and peers in the chest, and casts detect magic on the contents and the chest. "So, this is what all the fight was about? Oh, that reminds me, what happened to all of the magic items that were gathered off the orcs in the Inn? I think we should give them all to our 'treasurer', until we figure out what each item is, and who would best benefit from it. What do you all think?"
When Captain Berru arrives, he Ilsidur moves over and reaches up to put his hand on Sir Thomas' shoulder. He looks up at the captain and says, "Please excuse my young friend here, he has taken this combat especially hard, and we are all worried about our fallen companion. You seem to be sympathetic to us, and I think I can speak for all of us in asking if you can help us in dealing with the bureaucracy to get our companion raised and once more with us."
Once the conversations are all over, Ilsidur will retire to the main room of the inn, to catch up on some much-needed sleep. He will get up at lunch-time, and pray to Marmathon Dur, asking for spells for the remainder of the day, and praying for his Lord's help in recovering their friend back to the party.
Who's That Knocking? (DM Lee) Tuesday July 3rd, 2001 4:13:49 PM
The only magical aura visible in or near the chest belongs to the magical gem-lok. Ael has heard of a heavy metal that can be used in the construction of armour -- adamantine. Alyndar remembers finding mention of the armour among Chloe's papers. It is a special commission for Sieur Rafe Corman, who is to collect it just before the Day of Faith.
Captain Berru cocks her head, studying Alyndar, Sir Thomas, and Ilsidur steadily. "I'm sorry for your loss, of course. I hope this doesn't put you off championing completely. You have proved a capable group, and I like having champions with solid ethics working my district again."
She spares a glance for the death wain being loaded with the corpses of fallen orcs, then nods toward the clerks departing with their trays of memory stones. "That lot will get your Revue to you when they've finished with their bean counting. There's a moneychanger on Block 451." She gives directions. "As a citizen, Sieur Rainfelt should get a good exchange rate. I think you'll find there is little bureaucracy involved in having a friend raised, but if you run into trouble, ask." With a grin and another nod, the captain heads to the entrance of the Swan, where a richly robed man is bemoaning the destruction of his door.
Morning at the warehouse passes in the quiet of sleep, but things begin to get complicated toward noon. A messenger arrives bearing a scroll sealed with the mark of the Office of Champions. She is followed almost immediately by a dwarven porter carrying a tall bundle on his broad shoulders. "Delivery for Uteva Nerine," he shouts. Two merchants of the local block hover uncertainly behind him.
Loc Mufflfoot (Ceil) Tuesday July 3rd, 2001 6:17:04 PM
Loc listens to Captain Berru for a little while, then goes and retrieve his knives. When he emerges for the room, Loc notices that Sly is not quit himself. So he follows both Trace, Sly and the Chest back to the warehouse. In the morning Loc cannot believe his eye, when he see sly refuse his breakfast. Loc is having a hard time getting up those boxes where Sly is keeping himself. The halfling sits next to the very sad halfelf and ask of him, "What's the matter, your not your old self today." Then listen to his reply. "No! Alyndar didn't lie to you, he has full faith that Uteva will come back to us and beside you are not responsible for her death, it was Void's not keeping his word. Now cheer up and go wash your dog and work up an appetite. Later there was some dwarven porter with a bundle for Uteva, and wonders 'Now what?"
Sly Foxx and Luke Tuesday July 3rd, 2001 6:53:31 PM
After arriving at the warehouse, Sly climbs to the top of the boxes and reads his Spell Book, Prays and cries himself to sleep. With Luke by his side. In The morning Sly packs his little stuff his has and set them in the corner. Sly does a few choirs and refuses breakfast and off to his perch he goes. A few minutes later Loc climbs over the top of the crates and sits by Sly side and ask him what the matter was. "Loc for the first time I feel guilty for the death of Uteva. It was the only thing I could think of to release her from the web, she was to be hurt a little from the flames, BUT not die. And Alyndar lied to me for the first time. That's why I'm sorry, I'm so sorry." Then listens to Loc and finally it start to sink into Sly that it was not the flames that killed her, it was Void's Spell that did. Sly is mad and has to do something and takes Loc suggestion and give the dog a good bath and himself too. Sly goes in to his back pack and gets a bar of soap. It's that magic bar of soap he got someplace (Sly Don't Remember Where) and a towel. Off Sly goes (with Luke in tow) " I'll get those flees off of you and me too" Sly will wash from head to toe and Luke from nose to tail. It will take them all most an hour because Luke is less than cooperating.
Altemia, Tara, and Kevil Tuesday July 3rd, 2001 7:29:46 PM
Altemia wakes up after a few hours feeling quite refreshed. After greeting her two furry friends she sits next to her bed and meditates to renew her spells and self for the day. Just after she comes to herself, she hears the knocking on the warehouse door and goes to investigate.
"Hello. I see you have a scroll for us. I can take that if that's alright."
Her face falls a bit as she turns to the dwarf.
"I'm sorry sieur. But Uteva is not currently with us. She died in the challenge last night. Her body is currently at the Temple of Domi where we hope to resurrect her today or tomorrow. Can I take that for her or can you bring it back then?"
Trace and Radiant Tuesday July 3rd, 2001 8:58:10 PM
Trace awakens from his sleep and then moves over to the boxes below where Sly was. Over hearing the conversation between Sly and Loc Trace stares at his feet a bit, "It was my fault, Void would have let us trade for her but I ignored that and I thought I could protect her and free her and take the hit that Void would send. Instead We both get hit and she died because of my action. I am to blame and for that I beg forgiveness."
Alyndar Wednesday July 4th, 2001 2:04:45 AM
Aly wanders into the Warehouse and overhears Lok and Trace talking with Sly, he leans on a crate, pretending not to hear but does so. Everyone around notices his complexion getting redder and redder when ......... B O O M, Aly explodes in words.
Facing the duo and Sly as he starts to walk Luke to the Bath bucket, out comes these words:
WAH its my fault, CRY its my fault. Let me call now for the WAHmbucart. I have never heard anyone as sorry as you 3 complain about how things were done or how they happened. We ALL fought the best we could, we ALL went into that fight, just like we ALL have done before, knowing the possibility the one or ALL of us could die. It was in NO way anyone's fault for Uteva dying, IT WAS THAT BASTARD, VOID'S FAULT. He casted that spell, not us, He webbed that area, not us. Trace, Lok, Sly, did you cast a lightning bolt at Uteva? NO. Trace, Lok, Sly, did you cause her to be stuck in webbing? NO. Then who did? I know it wasn't I nor Ilsidur or Thomas' or Anyone elses. IT WAS VOID who did those spells.
Just when you thought he was done, before anyone could make a sound, Aly explodes in words again, saying:
Is this what is gonna happen everytime we go into a fight? Are we ALWAYS gonna second guess ourselves? If so then we ALL should quit adventuring, get married (spit), and have children and die right now. I am just as unhappy as the rest of you as to what happened to Uteva, but instead of sitting on your asses, feeling sorry for yourself, and deciding who is to blame, I would be going out, seeing what can be done to get Uteva raised from the dead and brought back into our fold.
I am not saying we should not think about what happened last night, heavens no, we LEARN from that fight. But if I hear one more peep about who's fault it was that Uteva died, other than to point the finger at Void. I will NOT bake any fresh rolls OR cookies for this group for the rest of your lives.
Aly gives the trio the "I caught your hand in the cookie jar" look, hands on his hips. And with a hrumph and a quick turn, Aly goes to his cart, harnesses up the Ox, drags and plops the chest into the cart and leads the Ox out of the warehouse, going to Sieur Rafe Corman's house to deliver his requested item.
Ilsidur Wednesday July 4th, 2001 8:41:08 AM
Ilsidur moves up beside Alyndar, and looks up at Sly and Trace. "I echo Alyndar's feelings, although I don't think quite as strongly." He frowns and continues, "It is no use second guessing ourselves and trying to figure out whose fault it was. Take some of that energy and put it into getting Uteva back, and then finding Void and avenging her. Now, get down from there, dry your eyes, Sly, and lets get moving."
"Hold up a minute Alyndar, and I will go with you. We need to get some magic items identified, and I know of a couple of people who might be able to help us." Then Ilsidur moves around and collects all the items from the two combats, putting them in a sack in the cart, and heading out with Alyndar to deliver the armour, and then to see the wizards that were on the list given to him by the bartender a couple of days ago.
Trace and Radiant Wednesday July 4th, 2001 2:38:11 PM
Trace snaps his head up and say's "quite right, I need to get past this and move on to vengenance." Trace removes his bracers and boots that he retrived from Bear, "Here, have these identified as well, I pulled them off of Bear before I gave the body to the collectors."
Deliver Me This (DM Lee) Wednesday July 4th, 2001 4:09:19 PM
The messenger from the Office of Champions hands over her scroll to Altemia with a hurried, "All profit to you, madame," and speeds away.
The dwarven porter hitches his slipping load a bit. "Stepped out of the Wold for a bit, has she? Bit inconvenient, that. Still, order's paid for. Tell you what --" He slings the large package to the floor, where it lands with a flat thump. "-- you sign for it now, and we'll neither of us have to bother again tomorrow." He holds up a memory stone on the flat of his palm for Altemia to record her receipt.
Behind him, the two local merchants wait in their work-a-day aprons for a chance to talk to the Southern Lights. Beyond them, two men approach the warehouse with purposeful strides: one very tall and spare, dressed in richly embroidered soft grey doublet and hose; the other rather short, and sporting the same type of uniform as Captain Berru.
Meanwhile, Alyndar and Ilsidur arrive before Sieur Corman's richly appointed townhouse. They are greeted at the door by a blowsy, grey-haired servant. "Good nooning to you, sieurs," she says around the edge of the door. "How may I 'elp you?"
Loc Mufflefoot (Ceil) Wednesday July 4th, 2001 7:09:30 PM
Loc notices that something is going on at the front of the warehouse. He walks up to Altemia, and ask of the package on the floor "What this fan mail already, Altemia?" Then Loc squat down and pokes at the odd looking thing. "Who is it for? Can I open it?"
Sly Foxx and Luke Wednesday July 4th, 2001 7:25:48 PM
Sly enter the warehouse after the adventure of giving Luke a bath, while wiping his hair and Luke fur. Sly walks to Trace, " I still fell hollow inside, cannot wait to see Uteva again." Then with a big smile, ask "Big Brother do you know if there's any lunch left?" Sly goes up the crates to his corner and changes his wet close, then come back down and stand next to Altemia and tells her, "Little Sister, I almost wash your wolves, but they were too quick for me. They only push me off of Luke, I don't think your pets wanted me to wash him." Then ask the rest of the party "what this a package? Sir Thomas Come here and open this.?"
Alyndar Wednesday July 4th, 2001 7:49:33 PM
<bows slightly> Yes, I hope you can. My name is Alyndar Rainfelt, and this is my companion Ilsidur and we are here on some business for Sieur Rafe Corman. Is he in that we might have a word with him?
Will follow in if asked, and will inquire if a couple youths can bring in the chest from the cart.
Trace and Radiant Wednesday July 4th, 2001 11:25:07 PM
Trace awakes from the day and begins with a prayer to Mittri and feeds and plays with Radiant a bit. "Well what news do we have on Uteva and how much do we need to earn in order to raise her. I belive that is first priority and then we begin our plan for vengance and protection of this block. I say this only to get the current situation done then move on our way. I am not too keen to become a permament fixture in hook city."
Altemia, Tara, and Kevil Thursday July 5th, 2001 5:30:42 AM
Altemia looks at Lok as he pokes the package.
"It's for Uteva. I don't know if we should open it or not. We also got a scroll from the office of Champions."
Looking outside she sees the new visitors.
"It looks like we have some more visitors. Trace, Sly, do you think you could take care of these merchants and officials? I want to get this scroll read. It might be important."
With that she steps back from the door to let others take her place. She moves over by herself and begins to read the scroll.
Ael d'Gaiaim Thursday July 5th, 2001 9:37:46 AM
Ael opens one eye as he wakes; roused by Alyndar's speech. Looking around, and realizing that he had fallen asleep (OOC: Or rather, his modem...), he stands up and dusts off his clothing.
Grumbling sleepily, he staggers out to answer the call of nature, and then back in. Rubbing his eyes, he starts to look about for something to eat.
"I just remembered something, but I dropped off before I had a chance to mention it. The armor in the chest is probably made of adamantine." The former Artificer's Apprentice will then relate his knowledge about the material (ad nauseum), until someone shuts him up. The tirade seems to have cheered him nicely.
Sir Thomas Thursday July 5th, 2001 11:39:55 AM
Sir Thomas busied himself with brushing Pryte-Honos and saddeling him when they returned to the warehouse. When Alyndar makes his explosion he listens intently. "Well said my friend." He comments just loudly enough that only those around him can hear.
When the people arrive and all of the commotion takes place THomas moves to the front door of the warehouse followed closely by Pryte-Honos. He listens to the happenings quietly. He does not move to open the package, instead grabbing it and bringing it inside the warehouse. "WE'll wait to open it this evening. WE need to go to exchange our money to get a blue chit and then go to the House of Alemi." Thomas goes and wets a towel and begins to wipe the blood from his sword and armor. he pokes some of his own injuries that still smart but ignores them for the more important issues at hand. "I'm going to go exchange the money we found and go see about Uteva. WHoever wants to come may come. Will you all please give me whatever funds you retrieved from the orc's bodies? Anyone who wishes to come may do so. Also, I should add that I have collected and recorded in the group ledger that we have magical bracers from the mage orc and magical bracers and boots from Bear and Chloe's magical armor. Did we collect anything else, other than an unspecified amount of money, from the orcs in the challenge last night? Did anyone pick up something that I missed?" THomas puts the shield thathe used last night back in the group collection to be among that which is divided out later. Thomas collects the money and takes the group pot with him as he heads off for the money exchange office. He rides Pryte-Honos to rest himself and give the animal a little exercise.
An Assortment of Errands (DM Lee) Thursday July 5th, 2001 9:30:36 PM
* At the Warehouse *
The waiting merchants step forward to speak, but the woman, whom you recognize as the owner of the Fruit Market a few doors down, notices the approaching men and turns aside. "Sieur Alphais!" she calls. "So good to see you. I didn't know you were back in town."
The dark, rangy man quickens his pace and comes over to hug the woman merchant. "Ah, Madame Orchid. Beautiful as ever! If only I were returned on a happier occasion. We shall miss our dear Chloe terribly!"
He straightens his long frame and turns to the group at the warehouse door. "Sieur Mufflefoot, how are you today? And would these be the rest of my nephew's saviours? You must introduce us!" He waves one long arm flamboyantly, in a gesture reminiscent of Maurice, whom some of the party rescued on the Trade Road a few weeks ago, "How did you fare in Challenge last eve?"
Altemia finds that the scroll contains the official Revue of Challenge. Couched in thick legalese -- with many wherefores, hereasmuches, and parties of this and that part -- it essentially says that the Southern Lights are deemed to have won both the Challenge and Counter-Challenge. In addition, the former CP 452 are found to be in breech of Champion law because two of their unregistered hirelings interfered in the Counter-challenge. The former CP 452 are instructed to pay recompense to the Southern Lights in the amount of one green chit, and are remanded to the custody of the Northook Guard.
* At the Corman Townhouse *
The servant looks a bit flustered. The scents of lemon, hot wax, and something more astringent waft out through the door. "Oh, but I'm so sorry, sieurs. The family 'ave not returned to town for the winter. We expect them in time for the Day of Faith celebration."
* At the Money Changer's *
Sir Thomas finds Pryte-Honos strangely restive. The stallion responds smoothly to the reigns, but he doesn't seem as responsive as he was yesterday.
The moneychanger's establishment is well-guarded by 4 burly fellows sporting champion patches on their tunics. One of them, who looks as though he might have ogre blood somewhere in his family history, assists Sir Thomas in carrying anything, and shows him into the inner office. There, an older woman greets him and indicates a comfy chair. "Welcome, sieur, I'm Madame Cecile. Please have a seat. Can I have Mags bring you refreshment?"
Alyndar Thursday July 5th, 2001 10:36:47 PM
Well then, would you please give him this message. Would you please ask your lord to send me word of his arrival so that I may bring to him what he ordered from Madame Chloe. I can be found at her home.
With that said, Aly turns to Ilsidur and says: now, off to Identify those items, you lead.
Loc Mufflefoot (Ceil) Thursday July 5th, 2001 10:48:58 PM
"Good day to you, Sieur Alphais. It is nice to meet you at last. We wonthe first battle, But alas we did not fair as well in the challenge last night. WE lost one of our numbers, but we did win the challenge at the Swan Bath House. Here behind me is our ranger Trace Jacobs and his pet bird, this little hungry one is Sly Foxx and his dog Luke,this beautiful little elf is Altemia and her two wolves (don't woeey she control them well)and this is one of our best wizard Ael d'Gaiaim. The rest of our party is out getting things ready to raise our fallen Uteva. I'm sure that Sir thomas , Ilsidur and Alyndar will be back soon. Won't you come in and sit with us for a while?" Then Loc turns and tells Sly, "See to what these people and what they want or any thing else they want to know, Please!"
Sly Foxx and Luke Thursday July 5th, 2001 10:51:34 PM
"Yes, Sieur Loc,"said Sly with a smile, then turn to the people and ask," Yes can I help you?"
Trace and Radiant Friday July 6th, 2001 12:31:18 AM
Trace stands by waiting and listening for when he is needed while petting Radiant.
Ael d'Gaiaim, Clumsy Wizard Extrordinare Friday July 6th, 2001 9:25:01 AM
Ael smiles and steps forward, bowing slightly. "It is an hour to meet you; I have heard much about you from my companions. It is my only regret that I was not with them earlier."
Sir Thomas d20=15 Friday July 6th, 2001 11:03:19 PM
Thomas allows the half-ogre to help him carry in the gold coinage that he brought. When faced with the beaurocrat THomas replies, "No thank you ma'am, I would not care for any refreshments. I would like to get straight to business if you don't mind. I am a little pressed for time." Thomas begins to finger his pockets and rolling the chits that he collected from the group nervously between his fingers. (OC: I count 14 total) He places his hands very respectfully on the table before he begins. "I need to exchange some of my adventuring group's money for a blue chit. Unfortunately I don't know your exchange rates, so I am trusting you as a good person of Hook City to treat me fairly." (rolled 15 diplomacy + 10 CHA = 25) Thomas still looks like Hell, the only difference between now and earlier this morning is that he looks like he has attempted to clean himself up unsuccessfully. He is still in some pain from the injuries he sustained last night, but overall is doing a good job of subduing those feelings and the aching in his heart for his fallen friend.
Ilsidur Monday July 9th, 2001 12:46:54 AM
Ilsidur looks up at Alyndar, and says, "I have two names on a note given to me by the maitre d' at the tavern we first stopped at. They are: Madame Carguille, through 'Fabulous Elixirs' in the Four Mews and Sieur Jax, on the Street of Righteous Dreams. Not having any idea which would be the better choice, I say we try the lady first. Any thoughts?"
Assuming Alyndar has no problems with the suggestion, Ilsidur asks the locals for directions to the Four Mews, and then for directions to 'Fabulous Elixirs' once on the right street. He and Alyndar enter the store and greet the keeper. "Good day, we are looking for Madame Carguille."
Various Errands (DM Lee-Anne) Monday July 9th, 2001 12:03:35 PM
* At the Warehouse *
Alphais shakes each man's hand heartily as he is introduced, and folds his long frame over Altemia's to kiss the air over her knuckles. "Delightful! Ah, but how sad, that your victory is marred by another death. I hope that you are able to bring your friend back. I, too, bear mixed news. Our dear Madame Chloe's funeral is set for tomorrow at the close of the business day. You will come, will you not? And you also, Madame Clover, Sieur Lukor?"
Sieur Lukor nods and smiles. "Of course we will, Sieur Alphais." Turning to Sly, he continues, "In fact, this is why we have come to you. The merchants of Block 452 will host a party tomorrow night, to celebrate the passing of our friend and to honour our new Block Champions. We hope that the Southern Lights will join us."
The Northook Guard, a blond half-elf, steps forward. "And I can, perhaps, supply an additional reason for celebration. I'm Constable Ramionne, chief investigator into the madame's murder. I'm pleased to say that we've caught the culprits, thanks, in part to the work of your Champion group."
* The Cart of Goodies *
The Cormans' servant agrees to pass on Alyndar's message.
Fabulous Elixirs is a little shop in the Four Mews that from the outside appears nondescript. A tiny bell jangles as the door opens, and the two companions enter a fantastic jumble of shelves, rickety tables, and precariously leaning racks. Every available surface is filled with all manner of bottles, flasks, bladders, and vials of dubious age. The place smells of dust, glue, and hollyhocks.
In the back corner is a doorway hung with a dull-beaded curtain. An older man sits before it, hunched over his knitting. The needles fly in his fat fingers, adding a rapid clicketty-clack to the room. He speaks without looking up. "What makes ya think she's here, and what do ya want with her, then?"
* At the Money Changer's *
Madame Cecile nods and splays her hands flat on her small desk. "Your trust is well placed in my establishment, sieur. I exchange foreign currency at the current Market rate, charging a nominal commission that I may profit from the business. I assume that you wish to exchange foreign coin?" Her eyes flick toward the heavy bundle that Mags toted in. "Gold is doing very well, but the Market is flooded with silver right now. Coins of common stamp fluctuate less in value. Shall we see what you have brought me?"
Sly Foxx and Luke Monday July 9th, 2001 4:53:00 PM
Sly eyes widens and a little bit of saliva drools down the corner of his mouth. " Oh! that is wonderful, will there be some food at this Block party tomorrow night?" Luke pick up his ears at the word food.
Loc Mufflefoot (Ceil) Monday July 9th, 2001 5:01:42 PM
"That woould be very good for the merchant around here. Ihave heard some pretty wild stories about the old Block Champions. It was Madam Chloe who hired us, but still if it picks up the sperits of the people and merchant. I think we will go along." Said the little halfling and kicks Sly in the ankle," Now! Stop asking about food." Loc smiles at Constable Ramionne.
Altemia, Tara, and Kevil Monday July 9th, 2001 5:09:18 PM
Altemia smiles shyly at Sieur Alphais as he performs the gentelmanly act. Living up in the hills she never dealt with the likes of him before. Remembering the scroll, she tells the others at the warehouse quickly of it's contents.
"The green chit will help us with the fee for Uteva. At least I think it will. I'm still not too certain on the system here."
Tara walks up and sticks her head under Altemia's hand looking for an ear scratch.
Ilsidur (at Fabulous Elixirs) Monday July 9th, 2001 11:01:50 PM
Ilsidur answers the old man. "Sir, my name is Ilsidur Wayfinder, and this is Alyndar Rainfelt. I was given Madame Carguille's name by Sieur Riguo, the manager of the Frosted Glass tavern, as a lady who might be able to help us out with some magical information. We are both members of Champions 823, and have recently taken part in a Challenge with another Champion group. As a result of the winning that challenge, we have come into possession of some apparently magical itmes, and we need some assistance in identifying what the items might be. We would be willing to pay the good lady for her time, if she could help us."
Trace and Radiant Tuesday July 10th, 2001 8:28:27 AM
Trace continues to sleep, "ZZZZZ" Resting and prepareing magic fang. Radiant is perched above Trace keeping watch.
Sir Thomas (at the moneychangers) Tuesday July 10th, 2001 8:58:04 AM
"Yes ma'am, let's pull some of these coins out and see what they hold so you can give me an accurate estimate on the exchange rates. But I should also add that we have a few chits, so if those exchange at a higher rate then I am interested in exchanging them also. We only have the white variety of chit though." Thomas smiles sheepishly because he knows his lack of knowledge displays an air of incompetence and it leaves him open to be taken advantage of. Thomas gladly puts his faith in Alemi and whole-heartedly trusts Madame Cecile. He helps her pull some of the coins, whatever she would like to see out of the bags, and will show her the chits if she so desires.
Various Errands (DM Lee-Anne) d10-5=0 d10=8 Tuesday July 10th, 2001 12:57:47 PM
* At the Warehouse *
Madame Clover smiles indulgently at Sly's enthusiasm. "Of course there will be food, young sieur! The party is at Hosea's Hot Foods tomorrow evening." She points down the street, where the restaurant is just visible. "We will expect you." She and Sieur Lukor return to their shops.
Constable Ramionne hands Lok a small sack. "As promised, sieur, the madame's effects. If you will excuse me, I'll get back to work."
Sieur Alphais watches the departing constable for a moment, then shakes his head. "An abrupt man, but efficient. Tell me, my friends, how do you like Magic City? Have you been successful in the business that first brought you here?" The tall man settles in as if for a cozy chat.
* at Fabulous Elixirs *
"Riguo is it?" The needles pause as their owner studies the men before him. "Aye, well, me daughter can help ya, right enough. Let's see these items a magic, then." He casts a quick cantrip while he waits to be shown the items, then studies them carefully, knitting all the while. "A yellow chit an a red will get ya names for all a this lot by tomorrow, plus a fair guess at the boots. This, one," and he indicates the leather-wrapped card deck, "is more complex. A blue, three orange, and an extra day to peg it. Ya can pay at pick-up. What'll it be?"
* At the Money Changer's *
"You may want to recheck your chits, then. The central bank revalued the colour system this morning. Inflation, you know. Here's a flyer showing the new chit schedule." Cecile hands over a small piece of paper. Sir Thomas finds, when he checks the chits, that the 14 white have changed to 9 orange and 5 red. "You have your blue chit right there, since 8 orange are equivalent to one blue. As for the coin. . ." Cecile examines a few of the gold and silver coins, weighing them on a delicate balance. "I can exchange these at the rate of 10 gold per white chit, and 108 silver per white chit."
Sly Foxx And Luke Tuesday July 10th, 2001 3:01:56 PM
Sly watches Madam Cloverand Sieur Luker (as they chat among themselves)return to their Shops. Sly waves and smiles as the rest of the neiborhood chats and slap their backs (because of a job well done). Sly turns to Loc abd ask of him, "What's in the sack, Loc? Any Cookies?" Luke pick up his ears and barks, "woof woof (meaning Yeah Food)."
Loc Mufflefoot Tuesday July 10th, 2001 3:13:52 PM
"Why Thank-you, Constable Ramionne."said Loc as he excepted the small sack, and watches the Constable walk away down the Street. Loc will open the sack and peek into it, then close the sack again. "No! Sly, no cookies in here. Just something that belong to Alyndar now. Now let's all go inside and have a mug of ale for us and milk for you and Luke."
Alyndar Tuesday July 10th, 2001 4:22:09 PM
Stands to the back, contemplating. Says to Ilsidur, lets take the items back to the warehouse, lets get with everyone and see just how much funds we have. Then go from there, plus we can go over the books and see just how much money we have in our new home.
Sir Thomas (at the money changers) Tuesday July 10th, 2001 10:54:16 PM
Thomas is stunned at how the money had changed since only an hour before when he put them into his pouch. Amazed, he continues with their business. "Thank you for your help and honest fair madame. I think that my group and I will be best served if we simply exchange the eight orange chits for a single blue chit and keep the rest as it is." Thomas places the chits that he wishes to exchange on the table and tucks the rest back where they belong, safe inside his belt pouch. Thomas smiles to have the business finished and so easily accomplished, when another thought crosses his mind, "And what of your fee madame? I only heard you mention it at the start. How much will I need to leave to account for your service?"
Trace and Radiant Wednesday July 11th, 2001 12:15:51 AM
Trace awakens from his sleep refreshed and fully charged for the rest of the day. He makes his way over to the others, "Well I have gotten my rest in, is there any errands left to be done or chores that need to be taken care of?" Trace waits for a minute then if there is something assigned he will begin it if not, "Well I am off to fetch my horse and have a ride about this fiar city and see what there is to see, maybe ask some questions about the 452 and see if anyone knows where they go when they leave the city, or maybe me and Radiant will find a tavern and see if they serve a decent wine around here. We could show off his tricks and earn a bit of trust and money to pay for the wine."
Ael d'Gaiaim Wednesday July 11th, 2001 10:31:00 AM
Ael listens politely to the conversation, and settles down to his daily meditations when it is polite. Upon finishing, he joins in the chat.
Turning to Trace, he says "I should be pleased to accompany you about town, if you desire. There is much here that I have always wanted to see; especially the academies." Ael starts to tighten his boots and recheck his spell components.
Convergence of Errands (DM Lee) Wednesday July 11th, 2001 12:17:11 PM
The moneychanger gives Sir Thomas a slightly puzzled look, but shrugs and hands over a blue chit in exchange for his 8 orange ones. "Anyone in Hook City will accept smaller denominations for larger amount. My fees are included in the exchange rates, but I couldn't charge you a fee to exchange such a small amount of Hook chits. All profit to you, sieur."
Sieur Alphais, feeling ignored, wanders off. Sir Thomas, Alyndar, and Ilsidur return to the warehouse just as Trace and Ael are getting ready to leave.
In the sack, Lok finds Chloe's whip and her belt pouch containing three gems like the magical keys Chloe gave the party: purple, red, and orange (shop, warehouse, unknown). There are also a few chits (1 yellow, 1 orange, 3 red, 3 white), 3 memory stones, Chloe's identity card, and a couple of employee cards of hers. On the cards, most of the writing has faded to barely legible, and a glowing red "Deceased" is scrawled across each.
A runner arrives out of breath at the doorway, wearing an Office of Champions patch. He leans against Sly, gasping, and pulls a small folded piece of parchment from his pouch and pushes it against the half-elf's chest. "Your reparation from the -- gasp -- former CP 452. They've been disbanded --" He takes a drink from a small flask. "-- and deported! Gotta go the -- gasp -- CP 37 have claimed greivance on behalf of their patrons against Block 182." He runs off down the street. Sly finds a green chit folded inside the parchment.
Sly Foxx and Luke Wednesday July 11th, 2001 3:17:19 PM
Sly waken to a new day, take his mother Spell Book and says his prays. Now makes his bed and packs his stuff (this always makes him ready to travel). Comes down and eats breakfast. Then does a few chores for Alyndar. "OK! Alyndar I'm going on my rounds now, be right back. Come on Luke!" And out of the warehouse he and the dog goes. Sly has gotten about to the door when he meets this runner and he's all out of breath, he's also wearing an Office of Champions. "Woe!" said Sly, "Take it easy, Catch your breath, What's the hurry?" But he give Sly a folded piece of parchment and pushes it against Sly Chest, then after a few words. He runs off down the street. Sly reenters the warehouse and walks up to the first ones there. "Altemia! Ael! This guy from the Office of Champions and gave me this piece of a note. He said 'Our reparation from the former CP 452. They've been disbanded and deported!' then he said something weird 'CP 37 have claimed grievance on be half of their patrons against Block 182' then he ran off down the street??" Sly holds out the folded parchment and out falls the green chit.
Loc Mufflefoot Wednesday July 11th, 2001 3:47:55 PM
After Alyndar and Trace rises for the day, and there's a moment of peace around the breakfast table, Loc brings out the sack and opens it. "Loc takes out Madam Chloe's whip and her belt pouch and in it was three gems (like the magical keys She had given the party) a purple one, a red one and an orange one. Hmmm! Shop, Warehouse and this one (orange) is unknown to me??. There is also some chits in here (as Loc takes them out) 1 yellow, 1 orange, 3 red and 3 white. Also in the sack are 3 memory stones, Chloe's identity card and a couple of employee cards (was faded and barley legible, and glowing red "Deceased" is scrawled across each)" "Very interesting, Yes very interesting" said Loc raising his head and ask the others, " Any comments anyone?"
Sir Thomas Wednesday July 11th, 2001 11:51:27 PM
Sir Thomas arrives at the warehouse and holds the blue chit up proudly. "I have what we need my friends. Let's go get Uteva!" The excitement in Thomas' voice shines through over top of his fatigue. Thomas then reings in Pryte-Honos and heads for the House of Alemi. He lowers his head down to Pryte-Honos' ear and whispers, "This will be wonderful. We'll get our friend back, I'll get to my morning prays . . . better late then never eh friend . . . and then I'll get to rest from the fight. All in just one more trip. Maybe you'll be a little more agreeable after I have spoken with my Lord Alemi." Thomas makes a teasing clicking sound in his friend's ear and then sits back upright in the saddle. With heavy eyelids, a weary body, and an ever lightening heart Thomas hurries to get his friend back from the clutches of death.
Trace and Radiant Thursday July 12th, 2001 8:44:09 AM
Hey Sir Tom, me and Ael was just about to leave, we will follow you to raise Uteva. Oh and there is something about a greivance on our block so I am not sure what that means but probaly a fight is being picked." Trace stands ready.
Temple of Alemi (DM Lee-Anne) Thursday July 12th, 2001 1:29:10 PM
Sir Thomas and those who accompany him find the temple grounds teeming with party-goers. Chatting people cluster around a long buffet table heaped with food, an ensemble of musicians provide music for a small army of dancers, while a pair of illusionists perform a religious story for an audience of youngsters.
A bald man with a ruby chasuble draped over his shoulders spots the group's grey champion tabards and approaches them. "May Lemniac's truth light your hearts. I'm Patriarch Raime -- I've been expecting you. Let's find a quieter corner to talk."
He leads you to a small side chapel where the noise of the party is muted. "I'm prepared to perform the ritual for your friend right away, if you wish. I will need to see your Revue of Challenge to be sure there is no legal impediment to raising the young lady. The fee may be left there," he says, gesturing to a small offering bowl nested amid tiers of votive candlesd. "After today's revaluation of the chit system, the appropriate amount is one blue chit and one green." The patriarch waits politely, a smile in his warm brown eyes.
Loc Mufflefoot Thursday July 12th, 2001 3:27:06 PM
Loc head snaps up when Trace yelled at Sir Thomas. "Yes,! Sir Thomas wait for us. We also want to be there for Uteva." Loc grabs the sack and also grabs Sly wrist. "Come on Sly let's go." Once at the Temple of Alemi follows the other into small side chapel. After hearing the fee of offering for the raising of Uteri. And witnessing Sir Thomas put the Blue Chit into the plate. Whispers to himself not thinking that anybody else can hear him, ' A Blue and a green -- a blue and a green, quick Loc THINK. What is the makes up a green?' Loc opens the sack and takes out the yellow chit and puts it in the plate. "Oh! No! we are one yellow chit short. Now what do we do?" ask Loc.
Sly Foxx and Luke Thursday July 12th, 2001 3:53:19 PM
Sly is taken by surprise, why everyone wants to go with Sir Thomas. Now Loc grabs his wrist and pulling him along, but Sly does not resist and goes along. When they enter the Temple of Alemi, Loc tell him to take his hat off. Sly wonders why? but takes his hat off any way. Sly tell Luke to stay at the entrance of the temple and the dog lays down to wait for Sly. He follows the Patriarch and the others to the side chapel but keeps looking back to the long buffet table with all that food on it. They all come to a stop and nearly pins Loc between Himself and Sir Thomas. Sir Thomas puts the blue chip on the offering dish, then Loc put in the yellow chip and the halfling frantically looking for another chit. Sly look through the door and there is Uteve's body. She Looks so beautiful. Sly takes his hat and under the inside band takes out the yellow Chit (that he received yesterday with that note) "Here Loc, is the other yellow chit we need." Said Sly. Watches Loc put it into the dish.
Altemia, Tara, and Kevil Thursday July 12th, 2001 7:54:38 PM
Altemia looks up out of her small trance and sees that everyone is hurrying to leave. She quickly motions for Tara to come with her and for Kevil to stay put. She quickly catches up the others as they head to the temple.
At the mention of the revue, Altemia hands the Patriarch the scroll she received earlier in the day. She stands near the back of the group as she waits.
SIr Thomas Thursday July 12th, 2001 9:24:40 PM
Thomas places the blue chit in the offering plate and notices the rest of the group pitching in what they have. "All right then Patriarch Raime. Let's get on with this ritual. We are in great appreciation to you for taking the time." Thomas waits patiently with his friends for Uteva to emerge from the room.
Ilsidur Thursday July 12th, 2001 10:44:53 PM
Ilsidur and Alyndar arrive back at the warehouse with the cart and magical gear in tow, only to find that the party has left for the church to help Uteva. "Come on Aly, if we hurry, we can catch them and be there for the ceremony. After that, we are due for a huge party."
When they arrive at the church, they quickly find Sir Thomas and the rest, waiting for Uteva's return. "Well, we were given a price to identify all the magic items. We need one green chit, one purple chit, four magenta chits, 3 pink chits with yellow dots, one half of a brown and silver striped chit, and... oh hell, we need to give someone a whole bunch of different chits, and we can find the stuff out." Clearly, Ilsidur is frustrated at the ridiculous monetary system of this bureaucracy-ridden city. "I'm sure some middle-level functionary invented this system, then made hemself indispensible at applying the system, to make sure he had a job for life."
Trace and Radiant Friday July 13th, 2001 1:09:40 AM
Trace gives a quick prayer for Utevas return then rises and turns to Sir Thomas, "I am not sure how long this will take but since everybody is here I think someone needs to stand guard over the shop and things. Please send word as soon as Teva is back with us." Trace blows a kiss to Teava then sprints back to the wharehouse.
Ael d'Gaiaim (On Soapbox) Friday July 13th, 2001 9:13:46 AM
Ael smiles as Ilsidur and Aly comes in, and puts his prayers on hold. "Actually, in a society which is based on the practical application of magic, it makes sense that the economy be based on such a unit as well. After all, the great sage Mordalphus the Golden proved that unenchanted base metals are a very bad choice for currency when he transmuted a cartload of cheese into gold bars. The fact that he was later hung for counterfitting is of no consequence."
The mage continues. "These chits appear to be a crystalline substance, and most likely are heavily enchanted. I would be most interested to learn their anti-reproduction/duplication procedure. ... Another point of interest in how they obtain their ratios between different denominations. While it may not be the most intuitive, I believe that it relates to the requisite quantity of energy which must be transmitted across interplanar lines (for instance, the ethereal energy involved in telekenesis.)"
Ael then takes a cookie out of Aly's pot and smiles, having made himself perfectly clear.
When Breathing Is Good (DM Lee-Anne) Friday July 13th, 2001 12:09:04 PM
The patriarch studies the scroll briefly, then returns it to Altemia with a kind smile for all. "The ritual will take only a few moments. While you wait, turn your thoughts to your friend. That may help to guide her soul back to her body."
He leaves the chapel to return a short time later leading a very pale and a badly burned Uteva. "I'll leave you in your friends' care, my dear. Lem watch over you."
Uteva Friday July 13th, 2001 12:16:00 PM
"Thank you, Patriarch," Uteva says softly. She grins at her friends, laughter dancing in her eyes. "Well, that was a bit of a bollocks, wasn't it? Did we get them?" The bard wavers a bit, then slumps against the doorframe. "I think I need to lie down."
Ael d'Gaiaim (Not on his soapbox) Friday July 13th, 2001 12:49:38 PM
Seeing the bard alive shocks Ael somewhat. He knew that they were coming to have her raised, but on some level did not believe it would happen.
"So...my uncle wasn't lying..." He sits down, looking almost as pale as Uteva.
Sly Foxx and Luke Friday July 13th, 2001 2:14:56 PM
Sly walk up to Uteva and takes one of her hand,"Yes! Uteva, WE did get most of them. Come let's us all go back to the warehouse. There's a lot of people who want to see you" said Sly, then kisses Uteva on the cheek," Thanks to you Uteva." Sly turns to the rest of the party and ask,"Hey! GUYs! did ahy one bring a horse? I don't think she can walk back by her self, you know???" Sly will try to guide Uteva to the entrabce and to Sir Thomas's Horse.
LoK Mufflefoot (Ceil) Friday July 13th, 2001 2:21:18 PM
"Here! Here! I'll carry Uteva in my arms." Lok walks up to Uteva and looks as to where he is going to put his arm around(?) her. "Hmmm! Your torso will be fine, but your legs will drag a bit!" said the halfling.
Sir Thomas Friday July 13th, 2001 7:26:10 PM
Thomas grabs uteva's hand, "welcome back friend. Would a little curing help your demeanor?" Thomas lays his hand on the bard and asks for Alemi to grace her, unless those with more knowledge about the raising process tell him that she just needs to rest, in which case he will not try to lay on hands. Thomas escorts the party to Pryte-Honos and helps get Uteva up on the horse's back. He hands the reigns to Lok. "You guide them back my little friend. I have a driving urge to speak with my Lord Alemi for today before I even rest myself. I will go pray and join you at the warehouse later. I hope my prayers don't make me late for the block party you spoke of on the way over here." he winks fatigued eyes at the group, smiles weakly, and walks back into the House of Alemi.
Altemia, Tara, and Kevil Saturday July 14th, 2001 9:28:38 AM
Altemia walks beside the horse to help steady a not too steady Uteva. Tara seems to sense that they are heading back to the warehouse and leads the way. The wolf seems to part the crowd in the streets as not even the large paladin mount can do.
Ilsidur Sunday July 15th, 2001 11:13:54 AM
Ilsidur smiles as Uteva walks shakily back to the group. "I'm glad to see you up and about. I know how you must feel. Welcome back." Then, a shadow crosses Ilsidur's face. "I imagine Bear is feeling much the same way right now."
He and Alyndar follow along behind the group, dragging the magic-item-laden wagon. "What do you think about selling some of Madame Chloe's items, and using the money to bring her back, as well? I'm sure we can have it done the same way Uteva was helped. I, for one, do not relish being part owners of an armourer's shop in this bureaucracy-ridden city. Even if we can't get Madame Chloe back, I still want to sell the shop and get back on the open road again. I am starting to get that itch between my shoulder blades, up high where I can't reach it with these stubby arms of mine. That itch only seems to come around when it is time for me to get on the move again."
"Oh yes, I still need those 42 chits of various colours to get all the magic items identified. Clay, can you tell me what all we have in chits and money? I need a yellow chit and a red chit to ID all the items except the deck of cards. I need a blue chit and three orange chits extra to ID the deck. Do we want to pay the extra price for the deck?"
Trace and Radiant Monday July 16th, 2001 12:40:43 AM
Trace waits back at the wharehouse for the rest to arrive and readies his gear for a new day.
Alyndar (by Lee) Monday July 16th, 2001 11:48:58 AM
The wizard smiles at Uteva and pats her arm. "It's good to see you up and about, youngster." He leads the cart-ox into the warehouse, narrowing his eyes when Ilsidur mentions Bear. "Chloe's papers mention some savings on deposit, as well as her debts. I'll finish sorting through them and see what we've got." Alyndar sees that Uteva is well fed, then immerses himself again in Chloe's office.
Party Time! (DM Lee-Anne) Monday July 16th, 2001 1:08:40 PM
Uteva doesn't look much better after Sir Thomas heals her. The effort leaves the paladin feeling a vague sort of emptiness. His later prayers are equally unsatisfying.
After hitting the books again, and a quick trip to a local repository, Alyndar is able to report on their financial situation. (Sending by email later today.)
Meanwhile, Uteva rests, and Trace and Ael explore the city. Sly discovers, after eating lunch, that stray crumbs and grease seem to slide right off his skin.
The time for the party arrives, and Sieur Lukor shows up at the door to escort you to the restaurant. "Hurry, hurry," he urges. "Everybody is waiting for our guests of honour!"
Ael d'Gaiaim Monday July 16th, 2001 1:34:40 PM
Ael strolls around the city with Trace, closely examining everything in sight. He seems to have memorized almost nothing but detection spells for the day, and keeps casting them at mundane objects. A whitewashed wall, a lamppost, and a soiled post are all closely examined, among other things.
The mage miraculously fails to bombard Trace with endless conversation about how the city has applied magic, and seems almost subdued (except for his outburst of joy upon discovering the city's magically enhanced sewer system.)
Sly Foxx and Luke Monday July 16th, 2001 2:32:06 PM
After Sieur Lukor came by to hurry his guests of honor, Sly takes a rag and wipes his chin and see and feel grease slide off his face and hands. Sly takes soap and water and washes his face and his upper part of his body. Then Sly turn to Luke and asks "Want to come with me?" And of course Luke jumps up and follows Sly about six feet ahead of him.
Loc Mufflefoot (Ceil) Monday July 16th, 2001 2:43:17 PM
Loc was get ready when Sieur Lukor come along to hurry all of the Southern Light to the feast. "We are almost ready and will be right there. I have to check on the girls." And went to the girls to see if they were ready. "Are the two most beautiful girls ready to go to the party? I will personally escort you two there." And off goes the very odd looking three down the street.
Alyndar Monday July 16th, 2001 7:53:21 PM
Follows everyone to the party, but he obviously has other things on his mind. When asked, he waves everyone off and smiles. Then goes back to thinking about something.
Trace and Radiant d20+9=12 Monday July 16th, 2001 10:11:32 PM
After exploreing the city Trace rembers that they are to be at a party this evening, "Ael, we must hurry back for the party, hopefully they will have good wine." Trace is somewhat relived to be headed back, although he loves Ael like a borther, his magic talk flies over his head and when he does understand what he is saying he is not impressed. Instead Trace focuses on local guards and military along with any other adventureing types walking around.(rolled a 12 for spot check)
Altemia, Tara, and Kevil Monday July 16th, 2001 10:41:10 PM
Altemia smiles at Lok when he comes to get them.
"I'm ready to go. But, if you aren't feeling up to it, Uteva, I'll stay with you. Big huge groups of people like that just aren't my thing really."
If Uteva is up to it, Altemia and the wolves join the rest of the party.
Ilsidur Monday July 16th, 2001 11:33:59 PM
On the way to the party, Ilsidur swings by Fabulous Elixirs, and says to the old knitting man, "Thank you for your offer. I would appreciate it if you would work to identify all the items except for the deck of cards tonight. We will return in the morning to make payment and find out what you have discovered."
Then Ilsidur heads over to the party, stopping to pick up a cheap pewter flagon along the way. "Can never have too many flagons at a party, I always say," he thinks to himself. He arrives at the party as the last of the group is being led in by Sieur Lukor.
Sir Thomas Monday July 16th, 2001 11:59:46 PM
Sir Thomas arrives back at the warehouse after offering his prayers to Alemi. He drags in as if he just survived a confrontation with a dragon. He avoids any and all questions in favor of trying to take advantage of any spare time before the party to sleep, since he has yet to perform that and is very tired. However, he just lies in the cot and stares at the ceiling with thoughts bouncing about his head as if they were one of Lok's little silver juggling balls. Since he can't sleep, he gets up and finds a shower with soap and he shaves and cleans up for the party. he changes clothes and puts some time in cleaning up his sword and armor. When Sir Lukor arrives, Thomas follows the group to the party and avoids as much contact as he can without being offensive to anyone. Thomas face shows his fatigue and a degree of worry that does not fit in the group's current situation.
Uteva Tuesday July 17th, 2001 3:11:19 PM
"I'm not too hurt to miss a party! Come on, Altemia we'll make sure that you enjoy yourself." Winking at Lok, the bard opens the bundle that had been delivered for her and pulls out a tabbard. Midnight blue and scattered with blurred bits of fractured rainbows, it reads Southern Lights in bold yellow lettering. A smaller patch affixed at the shoulder reads CP 452. "I had them made when we agreed to take the job. What do you think?"
Uteva passes out tabbards and shield clothes to her friends, then replaces her ugly grey tabbard with a spiffy new one. Linking arms with Altemia and Lok, she follows the butcher to the restaurant, trying not to lean too obviously on her friends' support.
Party Time! (DM Lee-Anne) Tuesday July 17th, 2001 3:14:24 PM Hosea's Hot Foods is crowded with gaily dressed people -- the merchants of Block 452 and their families. The place is brightly decorated in a riot of colour, and the air is laden with rich, spicy smells.
Hosea himself, a small, dark man with flashing white teeth, greets you at the door and shows you to seats at the head table. A sumptuous feast is laid out on the table, featuring hot, spicy meats, hotter vegetables, and extra-spicy bean dishes, with the odd chilled fruit thrown in for contrast. People dig happily into the meal, chattering loudly with one another. Toasts are shouted out, many to the Southern Lights, the block's new champions.
Loc Mufflefoot (Ceil) Tuesday July 17th, 2001 4:32:31 PM
Loc is very proud having two woman with him. With his chest all puff out, and with the new tabard on. Atlemia on one side of Uteva and Loc on the other side of her. Arrives at the party, Loc waves at everybody, then with a sense of making the girls relax. Loc sits the girls almost in the center so that every body would be able to talk to them. "Wait a minute! I'll be right back" Loc tell the girls. Then off he goes for some drinks and food. Come back and Tells them "If you want or need anything. just ask any of us."
Sly Foxx and Luke Tuesday July 17th, 2001 4:45:47 PM
Sly, after another quick wash, dressed and was given a new Tabard to ware. "OH! this is nice. Thank-you Uteva," Puts it on then out the door with Luke in tow. Looking around for either Trace or Sir Thomas, if he cannot find them, Sly will talk to them at the party. Now all he had on his mind was the food, drinks and good company.
Alyndar Tuesday July 17th, 2001 8:46:43 PM
after eating a few bites of this delicious meal, Aly excuses himself and goes to the kitchen, hoping to trade secrets with the individual who has prepared the meal. And he offers his help as well.
Ilsidur Tuesday July 17th, 2001 11:17:29 PM
Ilsidur takes his new tabard from Uteva, and smiles up at her in thanks. He puts the tabard on, and hacks the bottom off so that he doesn't trip on it. "These are great, Teva, but I hope they don't mean that we are here in Hook City for too much longer. I still say we need to sell the business, find out about the magic items, get our chits converted to gold, and get back out on the road."
At the party, Ilsidur brings his new tankard up to the bar, and has it filled with a good dark ale. He joins in the toasts, but mostly is just thankful that their last few combats have been successful, and the group is still together. He stays away from the spicy food, not wanting to submit his friends to the gas that would likely result in the morning.
Trace and Radiant Wednesday July 18th, 2001 1:00:53 AM
Trace arrives at the party with Raidnat on his sholder. Walking up behind Lok he hears his conversation and , "I agree with Ilsdur but I think we should keep the shop as a place to come and rest when needed and make extra money."
Sir Thomas Wednesday July 18th, 2001 8:49:34 AM
Before going to the party, THomas hurriedly removes Pryte-Honos' saddle and equipment to make his friend more comfortable while he is away. Thomas replaces his old tabbard with the new one. "thank you Uteva" he comments, but the words don't have much emotion. Thomas is obviously preoccupied.
At the party the paladin is only a shell of himself. He picks at his food, and doesn't drink much of anything, let alone water. He makes small talk but often excuses himself for one reason or another, then seems to withdraw into thought. After some time into the party Thomas excuses himself for the evening claiming to be tired still from the combat. He leaves the party and goes to talk with a priest at the House of Alemi.
Ael d'Gaiaim Wednesday July 18th, 2001 9:06:18 AM
Ael sits down at the party, images of Uteva's raising burnt into his mind. Not his usual self, Ael eats very little, makes no comments about the food, and in general is poor company. He spends the evening staring ahead into space, pondering who knows what.
It is because of this preoccupation that he does not notice that his friend Sir Thomas is not his usual self either. He stands and looks around for the Paladin, but does not see him. Turning to Sly, Ael asks "Where is Thomas? I have something I really need to ask him."
Uteva Wednesday July 18th, 2001 1:31:41 PM
During the toasting, the bard stands to add her own, a serious expression stealing the perpetual smile from her face. "Some of you I've known for weeks, some for only a few days." She meets the gaze of each of her companions, holding steady for a moment before moving on. "In that time, we've been through a lot, but each of you has been generous to a fault with your friendship. And today, you've given me back my life." Uteva pauses for a shakey breath. "I'm honoured -- I have no words." She blinks, then grins wryly. "Well, maybe I have a few: To friends!" The bard raises her glass to each before downing it.
Later, she replies to Ilsidur and Trace. "I don't want to be stuck here, either, Ils, but you have to give us a couple of weeks. I want to ask around about the raiders and slavers. Maybe find out where they're based on this side of the mountains. You can be sure that if they've been disrupting trade, somebody in this town will know something." Using her knife, she neatly folds a slice of meat and spears it up. "I think I'll poke around in Mud City. Lok, are you up for that? We'll entertain the masses, ask the right questions . . ."
Teva pauses to chew the meat, washing it down with fruit juice. "I don't care whether we sell the shop or not, as long as I don't have to deal with the red tape. Alyndar might have some interest, though -- didn't he say something about retiring here, later on?" She looks around for the mage.
Party a Hosea's (DM Lee-Anne) Wednesday July 18th, 2001 1:44:28 PM
Hosea refuses to let Aly help in the kitchen, but his wife, seeing the mage's obvious enthusiasm, offers to show him a few of her special recipes.
Two tow-headed little girls follow Trace around, watching Radiant raptly. An older lad gets up the nerve to approach Altemia. Hesitantly, he asks if those are real wolves.
Eventually, the party begins to wind down as parents take their drooping youngsters home.
Trace and Radiant Wednesday July 18th, 2001 1:56:08 PM
"Uteva, I too think mud city would be a good place to search for clues and with the two of us entertaining would could proably get to more people." Trace sits down in a corner with a lage flask of wine and enjoys the conversations and music. With a bit of a buzz and nothing to worry about for the time being, he simply enjoys the moment with a big smile while grazeing on cheese and cuts of meat.
Loc Mufflefoot (Ceil) Wednesday July 18th, 2001 2:45:37 PM
Loc is having a grand time at the party. The food and the drinks are of the best quality and the people are most joyous. Now Loc since the children are getting sandy eyed and drooping. Loc comes back to the girls and ask them, "It is time for the guests to go home so that the people and the parents can leave. So If we are ready to leave. we will say our good byes host Hosea and his wife. We'll say that Uteva is very tired. Is that all right with you Altemia ? Uteva ?" When Loc come back (with the Host) "It's been the best block party we have ever been to. Thank you very much. It is good to have friends like you all." Loc turn to the girls and adds,"And tomorow we'll go to Mud City, But right now it look like we will have to persuade Trace to come with us. He look like he's flying almost as high as his bird."
Alyndar Wednesday July 18th, 2001 2:52:20 PM
Aly will gladly exchange recipes with Hosea's wife. Food makes everyone smile. and the more people I can make smile. the happier i'll be when I die.
Sly Foxx and Luke Wednesday July 18th, 2001 3:08:06 PM
Sly is having a good time at the party, Sly has even dance with a girl (she was about 9). But feels ill at ease, when going back for the third time for another sandwich. Sly has seen Sir Thomas leaving the party and when Ael had ask Sly as to where is the Paladin, he answers "I think he left here a little while ago? Did you notice how unhappy he is lately? Let go out and look for him? If I was Sir Thomas and have a big problem, I would go to a Temple of his God." Sly scratches his head as they (Sly, Ael and Luke) head out the door to go looking for Sir Tom.
Sir Thomas Wednesday July 18th, 2001 8:16:25 PM
As his heart races, and his fear swells Thomas knocks on the door to the House of Alemi. He rubs his face and tries to tidy his hair with his hands hoping against hope that his suspicions are wrong. When the door is answered he presents himself formally as a paladin of Alemi. "Good evening (sir/madame), my name is Sir Thomas Hurley. I faithfully serve Alemi, and I'm sorry to disturb you at such a late hour, but I am in serious need of the assitance of a priest. I must speak with one tonight because I am very afraid. Is there a priest available for me to consult at such an hour? I would be very greatful for any assistance that you can provide. If there is not one present, may I use the alter to pray until a time when one will be available?" Thomas resists the strong urge to ring his hands in his nervousness, instead forcing himself to stand at attention.
Altemia, Tara, and Kevil Thursday July 19th, 2001 8:54:00 AM
Altemia looks up from playing with the wolves and the boy she had introduced to them when Lok brings the host by.
"It was an excellent party sieur. And the food was wonderful!"
Altemia pats her and the wolves full bellies as testement to her words and smiles.
At the mention of Mud City Altemia looks at Lok.
"I'm unfamiliar with Mud City, but I'll be more than happy to help you if I can. I also want to spend a little time on the block and get to know the people here."
Ael d'Gaiaim Thursday July 19th, 2001 11:16:48 AM
Ael walks off with Sly towards the temple of Alemi. He seems very agitated and is not very talkitive at all. "Sly", he says "Have you ever seen a raising before? Before...Uteva, I mean."
Hugging himself, the mage walks on.
Uteva Thursday July 19th, 2001 12:45:12 PM
Tired and feeling the pain of her injuries, Teva gratefully agrees that it is time to go. She pokes Trace out of his comfortable slump, and follows the others back to the warehouse that, for now, is home.
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