((Except for Zinnaella and Tathza Sabran who will be introduced later the rest of you are either in the fat duck inn, or passing through the square in front of this inn, the fat duck inn is on the map I‘ve PM‘d you)) [b:17o82gds]It’s 2 in the afternoon in the large port town named ‘Belfor’ and is a particularly hot day, dust swirls around the square in the mild wind. Some people are bathing there feet in the central pool and others are seeking shade in the many trees in the square. The square sit’s beside the ‘Fat Duck’ inn which is a friendly and popular place with the local’s particularly the sailors as this square also gives access to loading bays for the trade ships that come and go to this busy port. A somewhat official looking individual walks over to a notice board in the square and attaches a large poster to it, people start gathering around the poster to see what is being announced. This individual then goes into the pub and puts up a poster there as well.[/b:17o82gds]

Mitra lay beneath the branches of the tree, with her head resting against it's hard trunk. The sea air was thick down the docks and it helped to clear her head. The noise of the hussle and bussle of travellers and merchants helped keep her centred on the here and now and not wonder in a day dream. She opened one eye and watched the mob gather round the poster. She gave it a couple of minutes for the crowd to die down then her curiosity peaked and she raised herself up and walked over to the notice board, being careful not to bump or touch any one. Once she made it to the notice board she read the new parchment.

Mehlos looks up from his repast at the inn towards the commotion. He mumbles to himself for a moment before standing up and seeing quickly what is written before continuing his meal.

Feruni is feeding some horses out of the Fat Duck, nearby the docks, while he keeps an eye on the docked ship, eagerly to see some warrior-type men. He quickly stared at the man who brought the posters, following him across the square while he puts on the papers. He stayed near the horses, trying to catch some gossip from other people's conversation. If unable to figure out enough to understand the poster, he'd leave the horses safely attached to take a look at the poster at the notice board in the square.

After seeing the individual posting the notice, Val gets up from the branches and uses his superior elven vision to read the poster from distance. "A new job ?" he asks himself. "I sure could use the money..."

[b:35m6xrkz]The notice reads: ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Wanted Information or help to combat the growing crimes perpetrated by those that go by the name of “The Hidden Riders of Tomorrow”. Any person who thinks they can help may be hired. Please go to the Major’s office to see Major Kam Zname any day this week at noon. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------[/b:35m6xrkz] ((Players who haven't managed to create their character yet, or not got to this board, don't worry, I will just assume you do the same as what the majority do))

After reading the poster Mitra got bored and her mind started to slip away. The clouds were fluffy. The ship was huge and weather beaten. The horses were nice and they like apples. When she finally managed to regain her sense of where she was, she had walked over to some horses next to the inn and was stroking and feeding them. They were nice and warm. They nosed back against her hand wanting more apple. She reached into her pack and withdrew another apple and her knife. She began to cut slices of apple and gave it to the horses. She wondered who might own the animals.

"Fine with me !" Val thinks to himself, "never heard of them, so they can't be that strong..." He lays back once more to profit from the hot weater on top of the branches, trying to eavesdrop some conversations. "Who could be the other companions ? Well, that human savage seems quite strong and simple-minded, the perfect meatshield !" Val thinks while smirking. Suddenly, he noticed a woman who stood up to feed the horses near the inn and was happy to see that there were still humans (I suppose she looks like a human woman ^^) who cared for the animals in this town.

After reading the notice, Mehlos glances forlornly at his coin purse, before continuing his meal. After finishing he gets up an checks the time, preparing to go to meet this gentleman at noon.

[b:ni41n3cs]The day starts to draw to a close and the heat lessens to a more comfortable level so it would be possible to sleep outside, however although Belfor is not a particularly dangerous town there is still a small chance that you could be attacked by a thug or a group of thugs. Of course a room at an Inn offers almost complete safety and a far more pleasant sleep.[/b:ni41n3cs] ((Zinnaella and Tathza Sabran are residents and so have somewhere to go to sleep. For the other characters if your background states you are a resident of this town then you will have somewhere to sleep also.)) ((Note: it is ok to post out of order when out of combat within reason, i.e. players can still respond to some roleplay post that happened before I posted this. If you want to do this just indicate in double brackets the post you are responding to for your roleplaying or you could use the quote feature.))

((“The Notice Reads” post)) Feruni wondered for a moment. Fighting bandits wasn’t his best idea to become a great warrior, but, a chance to improve isn’t something one can just pass. Besides, he was actually going to be hired by the Mayor. “I’m in”, he murmured. But, who would the Hidden Riders of Tomorrow be? ((if there’s any check you see fit now, you may roll, DM)) As he stepped back to the horses, he wondered how many people would answer that notice. His thoughts were interrupted when he saw a young lady feeding the horses. He approached softly, and said “So, she bought you, uh?” while directing himself to the horse being fed at that moment. Following, he nodded at the girl. “Hi yourself”, he grumbled, and cared for the horses.

((“The day starts to draw” post)) “Looks like my job’s over, boys”, Feruni said to the horses. “Let’s get ourselves back inside”. He looked at the young lady, waiting for a reaction. He finally could make some words come clear out of his mouth. “I don’t know about you, but it’s safer at the Inn when the night falls here at the docks”. He untied the horses and began guiding them to the stall. “Since you like horses, lady, you’re welcome at the stall”, he said on his backs. “Tomorrow’s the day”, he wondered, picturing himself breaking some Rider’s bones.

((To know something about "The Hidden Riders of Tommorrow", If you are resident of the town you will definately know, i'll PM those about that)) ((If you are not resident roll a d20 knowledge local check difficulty 16))

She froze in her actions the voice was male. Even through it was soft, visions sprang to her mind. Her arms slacked to her side and she lowered her head, very submissive. The man went about his business with the horses and then started guiding them towards the stall. She took that moment to glance at the man's back, he was broad and dangerous with a heavy blade straped to him. She looked down again, and silently stood. So far no comment had been a direct question to her and she knew that if she wasn't being asked something then she should be quiet.

As the moon comes out, Val searches his leather pouch. Empty, of course... "Well seems that I'm gonna take, once again, my trance under your watchfull eyes, miss moon" he mutters. It's not like he would prefer to get his rest in a dead stone room, only that he knows too well that some fools like to disturb him during his meditation. As he hopes for them that tonight they will not cross swords - or in his case, arrows - he looks up to the moon and is fascinated by her beauty. "Tommorow I will see if I can get that job !"

Another night on the streets near the docks. Nothing new or unexpected, but getting tiresome. Mehlos sits under a pier, enjoying the sound of the ocean, hoping this job comes through. "The hidden riders of tommorow, where have i heard that before" [dice:32krz1tv]20+2+4[/dice:32krz1tv] Untrained, +4 int, +2 Collective

[b:22cm1ncg]Those of you who decided to sleep outside did at least not get too cold as the night was very mild. Luckily the thugs were not out in force maybe they were keeping low due to the “Hidden Riders of Tomorrow” rumours. If you stayed at the inn you would have enjoyed a pleasant nights sleep and a hearty breakfast of pork, eggs and bread for 1 sp. The following morning is another swelteringly hot day, people are either without shirt or have sweat patches. It’s the third day of the week ((I’ll give calendar details at some point, it’s not the same as ours)) so it is a work day and many people are walking off to their work place. It’s 7 am in the morning.[/b:22cm1ncg]

Woke early next to the fountain, she barely moved at all but slipped her hand into the cool water and made eddies with her hand. Her stomach growled in protest, and she splashed the water on her face and then got up and went over to the inn. She walked in and ordered a breakfast. She wondered if the nice horses were going to be back today. Maybe "the riders" had horses that she could pet and look after. She paid the barman for the food with not a word, and then went to a table and started eating the meal.

The veiled silver haired girl walks calmly along the street, her long black dress making swishing sounds as she walks. Subconsciously she keeps to the natural shadows from the buildings around her. She enters the square and squints her eyes as she faces the sunlight, her grey veil not enough protection from the glaring morning sun. She takes in her surroundings, carefully studying the buildings and those who walk around this time of the day. She ignores the poster and makes her way to the nearby Inn, drawn to it as if a mystical force pulls her toward it. She steps into the cooler, darker taproom and allows her eyes to adjust, standing still at the threshold before entering.

Feruni woke up before the sunrise, as usual. He left everything ready in the stall, but did not feed or did any other work. "You'll have to content yourselves with someone else today, boys", he said to the horses, "today I have bigger issues". He packed all his 'warrior stuff', his sword, the axes, everything in proper shape. After leaving a message that he wouldn't be working at the Inn today to a stableboy, Feruni made his massive body out to his glorious day. He read the notice again, at the square. He made a subtle gesture with his head, like saying "yeah, let's go". When he was passing through the Inn entrance, he saw that same yong lady from the day before. She was having a nice meal. The innkeeper dislike his 'workmen' to enter the Inn, "but not today", he wondered, "Today I'm no ordinary man". With a confident look on a tough face, Feruni stepped in, looking to nothing else except his way: the lady's table. No smiles and no nods to anyone. As he came close to the table, he said "Now it's >your< feeding time, right?", while pulling a chair. "I'm Feruni, lady. You got a name?", he said, in the rudeless way that he could. "I can use some talking before going for a quest". He smiled. Quest really sounded nice.

Val was already up when the sun came out. Another beautiful day, just how he likes them. The thugs in this village seem to be smarter than the most others, as he got a perfect night of meditation. Later in the morning he notices a young girl in black wandering around the parc. Was she also interested in the adventure ? No, she didn't even read the sign. How come he noticed her of all the other people around here. It wasn't for her dress, as he wasn't interested in fancy clothes; nor for the (at least for human standards) beautiful appearance. No, it was something deeper than that. Her whole charisma was so... At this moment he felt a pain in his head. It was something new and he clearly didn't see that coming, so that he fell from the tree ! "Autsch ! %/$*'§ ! What was that ?" As he stood up the girl had disappeared. He thaught that all this was his imagination's work as he clearly was hungry. "Let's see what I can find to eat today before I go to the mayor."

Mitra ate, like she hadn't eaten before. She must not have eaten much yesterday, but she couldn't really remember properly. There was a clatter of a chair and suddenly the man she had seen yesterday thumped down next to her. Words tumbled from his mouth but due to the shock of the man, his hand thrust out, she couldn't consentrate on what he said... [i:2ng62bs3]Oh god he has found me... I'm doomed[/i:2ng62bs3] she thought to herself. Her heart beat quickened, she pushed the plate towards the man and looked down saying "I'm sorry, I wont do it again. Please don't beat me." Visibly the girl shrunk into herself, she couldn't focus on the rest of the room she was just waiting for the hand to clench and for the pain to begin once again.

Evelyn's eyes adjust to the room and she notices the broad shouldered, tall man walk in her direction. His eyes are fixed not in her direction but towards a table in the corner and she sees him slide a chair and sit down in front of a pretty dark haired girl, who she instantly recognises. Panic flares momentarily in her eyes, wondering who this newcomer could be and she hastens her stride to the table. "Good day sir!" she says in a soft voice with a subtle hard edge to it, as she moves close to the pretty dark haired girl and puts a protective arm around her shoulder. "What is it you want?" she inquires with that same soft voice, her eyes studying the muscular man, noting his weapons at his side. Staring intently at the man, she falls silent, waiting for a reply, all the while, sliding her hand through the pretty girl's hair, as if trying to comfort her.

She felt a gentle hand on her head and fingers running through her hair. She looked slightly to her side and saw the familiar dress. She was back. Mitra imediately felt her heart begin to slow down and a calm she hadn't felt in a long while came over her. She closed her eyes, cooed and rubbed back against the hand, all thoughts of the scary man sat next to her were banished from her mind.

Feruni wondered if the young lady mistaken him with someone else. She didn't have to apologize at all to him. Or maybe he was way too rude yesterday. He's used to that. But before he could say any sentence - even before he could figure out any word - a long dressed girl, silve veiled like in a funeral or something, stepped close to the young lady, greeted him and embraced the lady. "Looks like they're friends", he thought. He took the plate the young lady offered him in apologize and said "It tastes good", then gave it back, "I didn't mean to scare any of you, especially you, horse lady", he says, leaning foward to the lady he met by the horses. "I guess I'll have to figure out a handle for you too, veiled lady, since the two of you seem to be nameless", he smiled. He paused just a second and then leaned foward 'em both and stated, whispering, "I'll be attending the Mayor's call this noon. The one from the notice board", he bounced his head in the direction of the board, where a man (by his looks) stood still. "I was wondering, horse lady, you don't look ordinary, neither your pal, by the way. Can any of you bear a shield and swing a sword?". The young barbarian never really thought he'd get a yes to such a question, although he certainly realized the veiled girl beared some training, he just planned to figure out which one.

After finding some apples Val decides to visit the inn before going to the mayor. He hopes to find clues about the mysterious girl from this morning. As he enters the building, he is only half surprised to see her, along with two other characters he noticed yesterday. The meatshield and the other human girl who fed the horses. He sits on a table not to far away so that he can eavesdrop their conversation.

The man spoke again he surmised things and made strange jokes about no names. She opened her eyes and looked him straight in the eye. A childish grin took over her face just the fact that her lover was back was cause enough to smile. The cohesion of thought came so much easier to her when Evelyn was around, the bad memories went away. "Silly man. If you wanted to know my name you had to ask in a nice way." She tutted and waggled her finger at the brute. "I'm Mitra and this is Evelyn." Her voice was lyrical and her speech was that of a child. "I'm not suppose to speak to strangers, but it's okay now cause Evelyn is here." She looked to the board, where the man stood. "Oh you mean are we going on a quest." She paused and thought for a moment. "I don't know." She cooked her head to Evelyn and with another wicked and childish smile she added "Can we Evelyn, I like quests. The man needs us to protect him. Maybe we can save the princess, althrough that wouldn't work cause I'm a princess. Princesses can't save themselves can they? Oh please can we go?" She gave the wobbly look and the puppy dog eyes.

Realizing there is no immediate danger and the barbarian means no harm, Evelyn's face softens and she smiles at the broad shouldered man. Removing her veil and she brushes back her silver hair from her face and grins at Mitra before turning back to the man. In a soft voice she says," Neither of us bear a shield or wield a sword in the way you imagine but we can hold our own in a fight if we have too. I am a priestess and my dearest Mitra here has a special power of her own." with that she gives the dark haired girl a friendly hug. She turns to face Mitra and in a jovial tone replies to her question "Very well my little princess! We shall protect this man on his quest" she says with a sweet smile. She glances at the elven man who sits at a table nearby, he is a handsome elf, even by elven standards and she senses something from him, perhaps even a kindred spirit. When he looks her way she gives him a smile to show she acknowledges him and continues to talk to Mitra in a playful way while enquiring of the man his name once again.

Evelyn; said the other girl... Val thinks for a few moments but doesn't seem to remember such a name, but his memery is so blurry these days. Does she have anything to do with the visions he had last night ? Does he know her ? Is he under the effect of a spell ? At this moment she looks him right into the eyes ! Val starts to blush as he seems to have been discovered, but she simply smiles and continues the chat with the other two. Should he go there and present himself ? What is this "connection" he feel ? Does Evelyn know him ? Or is he simply starting to loose his mind ?

seeing him blush, Evelyn gives the elven male a dazzling smile, meeting his eyes. "Come join us sir," she says warmly, "no need to be shy." she moves her chair further from the broad shouldered man and gestures to the open space created.

Should Val trust this girl who seems familiar to him eventhough he is quite sure that they never met ? After a few seconds he decides to join the group as he wants to know her. "Good morning myladies, sir. I'm Val, are you also here to complete the quest ?" he asks eventhough he already knows the answer. He then turns to Evelyn and inspects her. She said she was a priest, and eventhough he knew he shouldn't judge a book by its cover he couldn't hide a smile.

[i:5mfnxy96]Protect me?[/i:5mfnxy96], the barbarian couldn't hide his surprise, or a shock, to be more certain. So, they're warriors of their own kind. Even tough Feruni knew what a priest was capable of, certainly "a power of her own" is quite mysterious. Still, [i:5mfnxy96]magic is probably the answer[/i:5mfnxy96], he thought. "Very well, Mitra and Evellyn. Looks like I'll be quite secure with the two of you as my protectors", he says, with a soft joking voice. He joked, but he couldn't avoid to wonder about the mature and yet childish attitude of the younger lady. He got lost inside this thoughts, enough not to see the priestess looks at the neabry elf. Feruni finally emerged from his wonderings, and stated, while relaxing at his chair, "Mitra's a nice name, horse lady". Then, the elf arrived. Val's his name. He seemed pretty agile, yet not very strong. Even so, he emanated some kind of comforting aura. Feruni felt okay with him, like if he was suddenly protected by some divine entity. [i:5mfnxy96]Looks like everyone is somehow mystical around here. Am I the only only who actually relies on my sword?[/i:5mfnxy96] He scanned every single one of them: the horse lady, the priestess, and the elf. ((Sense Motive check, as the Hidden Riders might have sent someone to spy upon the Mayor's call candidates)) [dice:5mfnxy96]1d20+1[/dice:5mfnxy96] [color=#0040FF:5mfnxy96]((DM: You sense no motive of that nature))[/color:5mfnxy96] [i:5mfnxy96]So be it. I'll prove 'em that a sword is as much worth as this whole magic-thing[/i:5mfnxy96]. "So, y'all here for the quest? Shall we go then? Noon won't take longer to come, and my arms are tired of waiting", he said, making it sound as confident as he can, although he stumbled in a few words. Speaking out loud was never one of his best skills. Swords are. And cunning too.

She claps her hands and smiles broadly at the barbarian. "There you go then you don't have anything to worry about we are going to keep you safe." She hugs Evelyn tightly and takes all the pleasure she can from the simple gesture. She then hold on to her hand while they talk. When Val joins the group she turns to him. "Hey Val... oooo you have pointy ears. What kind of elf are you?? Let me guess... Sun... no... Moon... not quite... I don't know I give up??"

She turned to the barbarian already half forgoting the intesting new elf. "Huh horse lady... your silly... I like horses cause they are nice and calm, and it helps me think, to be around calm things. The horses were nice and friendly." He carried on after looking funny at all of them. "Yes quest... save the princess... they always turn into saving princesses...Why are your arms tired?"

Knowing that her black dress reveals a lot of cleavage, she waits for the elf to finish 'inspecting her' before saying with a smile, "like what you see?" Before he has time to react she continues, "Yes it would seem we are on a quest of import." "as this man's protector," she whispers to Mitra with a wink, before continuing at a louder tone. "Our barbarian friend here is eager to go on his quest, would you care to join us?"

"Well, as you already noticed I'm an elf, a woodelf to be precise" he tells Evelyn, as Mitra seems to have lost interest. "And yes, I already wanted to accept the quest. So I will gladly join you." Val waits a bit before he dares to ask: "Do we know each other, Miss Evelyn ? You sure stand out, but I don't think it has something to do about your physical beauty..."

[i:pl9jkogu]"like what you see?"[/i:pl9jkogu] The words slip through the chaos of her thoughts. Ths squeezes Evelyn's hand tightly and looks her in the eyes wondering if there is a problem with the Elf, and if her lover is okay. When Val askes if she knows him, Mitra squeezes harder, starting to panic slightly.

"You do look vaguely familiar..." Evelyn replies in a soft voice. She closes her eyes as if to remember, then snaps them open, "....but from where I cannot say." "Perhaps we will both remember as time progresses," she says softly before turning to Mitra smiling, "Now my little princess are you ready to go on this quest with our new found friends?".

As quickly as the anger rose inside her, it went away with a smile and a pleasant word. "Yeah of course.... we going now? To save the other princess and the barbarian? Where do we have to meet then for this quest?"

Feeling Mitra squeezing her hand tighter, during the conversation with the elf, she looks into Mitra's eyes as if sensing something is wrong. She squeezes her hand back in comfort and and smiles warmly at her, studying her expression in an attempt to read her, feeling slightly tense. Mitra's perception had saved their lives on many occasions and as such Evelyn always took the slightest tension from Mitra as a serious warning When Mitra relaxes, Evelyn relaxes also. "Where? you say" she answers softly. "Well unless i'm mistaken we have a noon date with the Mayor according to our new found friend." she gestures to the broad shouldered barbarian.

She smiles back "Well then off to the Mayor's office." She stands and makes a move to go then stops, and sits back down again "Where's the Mayor's office?"

"finally!" Xerxes breathes a sigh of relief as he approaches Belfor, feet aching with every step, walking down the coast wasn't easy. [i:1s8or7js]I could really use a good meal and a bath[/i:1s8or7js] he thinks to himself, looking down at his dirty sandy clothes. Walking down through the docks Xerxes is wary of the ships in port, keeping both eyes out for the ships he hopes he doesn't find. It wasn't hard to find an inn, with a name like "the Fat Duck" it promises to please his growling belly. It's approaching noon as he wanders into the inn, he's surprised to find a mottled group of people lounging around at a table, [i:1s8or7js]doesn't anyone work around here?[/i:1s8or7js] he thinks to himself as he approaches the innkeeper for a meal, pulling out two silver and asking if there's any work for hard-working man around here, "anywhere except for the docks" he adds.

[b:2rpi8441]The innkeeper smiles and says "Well there's an opening here for anouther hand, plenty of work on the boats, well you could check that poster over there on the pub wall, I think the major wants some hired help"[/b:2rpi8441]

[quote="Thandren":tbwh0tnb][b:tbwh0tnb]The innkeeper smiles and says "Well there's an opening here for anouther hand, plenty of work on the boats and you could check that poster over there on the pub wall, I think the major wants some hired help"[/b:tbwh0tnb][/quote:tbwh0tnb] "thanks, I'll check it out" Xerxes puts down his pack at a table on the far side of the room from the group and then walks over to the poster to check it out. [i:tbwh0tnb]sounds like it's right up my alley[/i:tbwh0tnb] he thinks to himself, [i:tbwh0tnb]I better eat quick and get over to the major's[/i:tbwh0tnb]. going back to the counter to get his food Xerxes asks the innkeeper for directions to Major Kam Kname before sitting down to eat.

[b:35692pkz]"Just go out of this pub take a left turn and follow the road till you get to a big town square and the majors office is in the town hall."[/b:35692pkz]

Feruni smiled at the question. "They're tired of cleaning off dirty, young lady. Nothing that you'd understand, anyway". He stands up, his body shadowing those sitting by the table. "I know how to get to the major office. We can move now, if you're done with your breakfast", he said to Mitra. "And the elf there", pointing his head at Val, "Val, right? You mind join us already? The horse lady here wants to see how I untire my arms". He gave a last smile while staring at the pub's crowd. [i:3bdgbsv5]So, I finally feel it again. The anxiety before a struggle. Long time, dwarf captain[/i:3bdgbsv5], he reminded, closing his face to a cold gaze, the one you'd run away scared as hell in a quiet alley at night. His wrists tensed. Bones... He then moved to the door way, leaving the Inn to find a sunny day, a damn hot day, actually.

Reyn tuned his flute, his thoughts wandering, eyes unfocused, as if the veil lay between the world and his mind. His drifting was difficult to shake, colors mingling and departing from one another in front of him, the smell of breakfast a distant reminder that life was, and the sounds of others voices flowing in concert. His flute needn't be tuned, but such was a musician. Slowly, like an early morning fog in lowland forests, his musing lifted. [i:34ab34rb]The Hidden Riders[/i:34ab34rb], he thought. Catches of songs weaving in and out of his memory. Uncertain, he let his mind search quietly on its own and brings the flute to his lips. Bartenders rarely took offense to his playing. More would wake. More would come to breakfast. [dice:34ab34rb]20+3[/dice:34ab34rb] : Bardic Knowledge Check The Hidden Riders of Tomorrow. [dice:34ab34rb]20+8[/dice:34ab34rb] : Perform check.

Reyn stops the music mid-measure. His fingers continue tapping the keys of his flute for some moments but he lets no breath escape his lips. [i:6gqj7rhl]Off today[/i:6gqj7rhl], he thinks and shakes his head. Looking out one window, he dismantles the flute into two sections for packing and sighs. Some days are not meant for music and he tries to shake the omen. Men and woman prepare to answer the summons. [i:6gqj7rhl]Company is warmer than none on a day such as this[/i:6gqj7rhl]. Settling his pack, he rises from a chair in the corner and walks briskly to the door. Might as well follow the others.

Val simply nods to Feruni, and stands up to follow him. It's a hot day, once again, but he likes it that way. [i:jn2belef]I hope this mission will be fast and rewarding...[/i:jn2belef] He looks at Evelyn, unable to get his eyes from her, but as soon as he crosses Mitra's he understands that he should be careful.

She followes the others out of the door holding Evelyn's hand. Making sure the elf knows not to look at Evelyn as anything other than a travelling companion. It is a beautiful day, hot with a gentle breeze, and she soon forgot again the silly elf. She did wonder if it was going to just be the four of them or if others were even now making there way to the major's house.

Evelyn had seen the dark haired warrior stride into the bar room emanating confidence. His skin was deeply tanned and his face weather worn as if he had travelled far. She had kept him in view in the corner of her eye allowing strands of her silver hair to fall partially over her eyes so as not to be so obvious. She continued to watch him to ensure he posed no threat to her or Mitra. Several years on the run from a sadastic killer, had made her wary of newcomers, though she would never let it show. The tanned man had given their group a momentarily glance, then moved over to the far side of the tavern with little interest in them. He was either very good at spying, or simply another traveller on the road. She hoped for the later. Evelyn watched the broad shouldered man named Feruni stand up and suggest they go. He seemed to collect himself in thought, his eyes staring beyond the taproom. A chill ran up her spine and she decided she would not like to make an enemy of him. He speaks to Mitra in a light hearted manner, which she welcomes and she glances at Val to say 'shall we go then?' with her eyes, not noticing the look shared between Mitra and Val. As Feruni makes his way to do the door, she can feel Mitra's excitement in the possibility of this new quest. She smiles inwardly and out of habit checks none of Mitra's belongings are left at the table. 'so much love and energy she has' she muses in her mind. Her mind goes back to when she first met Mitra, imprisoned in that cell, she shudders at the memory. The prompted memory pushes forward her vision of that morning. She had been making her pre-dawn vigil to the town's cemetary, to honour the dead. after lighting two candles at a chosen grave, she had walked to a tree and relaxed against it closing her eyes to let the new dawn's energy wash over her and that is when the vision had come. More vivid than a dream she had known in her soul it was a message from her god. Though she did not understand its full import she knew that a life was in danger.. ...what she saw was murder.

Xerxes eats hungrily and watches the people in the room start pouring out into the day. [i:39a1axps]I knew they looked a strange assortment, definately not common workers, I see it now that my stomach isn't distracting me. [/i:39a1axps]Not noticing anyone looking his way Xerxes sizes up everyone as they're leaving, noting weapons, possible weapons, and they way they walk. [i:39a1axps]Maybe there's only a few work openings and I may have to prove myself against one of them in order to win one, better to be prepared, you have to be realistic about these things.[/i:39a1axps] After eating quickly Xerxes heads out into the sun, bidding the innkeeper farewell, he walks briskly, following the directions he was given and trying to dust himself off along the way to make himself more presentable.

After a few steps, Val asks Evelyn with a gentle voice, knowing that Mitra is observing them: "So, I heard you are a cleric. I also got a divine gift which I can use strenghten the body and mind, like increasing courage (([i:1x7v57ct]Bless[/i:1x7v57ct]*)), defense (([i:1x7v57ct]Shield of faith[/i:1x7v57ct]**)), and the natural regeneration (([i:1x7v57ct]Lesser Vigor[/i:1x7v57ct]***))". "What is your speciality ?" he asks her in a naive way, which could be interpreted as rude. *((Bless: +1 moral to atk & ST vs fear during 1min/lvl, 50 ft. burst)) **((SoF: +2 deflection to AC during 1min/lvl)) ***((LV: fast healing 1 during 10+lvl rounds; fast healing is NOT exactly the same as regeneration as you can't grow new limbs or reattach them)).

The day dream was fleeting but the thought of Val, dead, with his eyes, ears and nose bleeding crumpled on the floor, with her standing above him telling him he should not have been so rude was so entertaining she couldn't help but smile and squeeze Evelyn's hand, smiling at her.

Evelyn turns to face Val, brushing back long silver hair from her face with her spare hand. "You guessed right of course," she says in a soft voice with a smile. "You tell me your strengths in divine spell power and i can see where you are leading," she continues softly "It will be good to have different divine spells to offer the group." "I pray in the evening, at day's end, when the night is reborn. Perhaps before this time we can discuss what spells I can pray for so that we are better prepared." "what speciality am I? you ask" she says softly to him. "As a cleric I am both a servant of life and death. With this hand," she gestures to the hand holding Mitra," I walk with life," she shows you her free hand that you note thin scars around the wrist, as if she has been tied with wire, " and with this hand, I walk with death." "Death has pulled on my hand hard in my past and one day it shall take both my hands but until then I will hold onto life." She steps closer to Val, the smell of a rose petal fragrance, drifting with her and looks him harder into his eyes, as if trying to read a reaction and whispers softly to him, "I do not fear death or what lies beyond. There are those that who know of an existence in between life and death. Some call them creatures, for me they are merely misguided lost children. I have the power to interact with these children and show them a way to goodness and to atone for all their sins in their life." and with that she steps away from him and continues her jovial conversation with Mitra, swinging their arms in play.

Mitra smiles broadly at the playful arm swinging. "So do you think it will be evil men that have stolen the princess? These "Riders of Tomorrow" or whatever they are sound like bad men. Maybe we can educate them on not stealing princesses. Of course we would have to let Feruni do the telling off as he has that look of teaching hard lessons, but we can be there to keep him safe. Ooo maybe they will have some treasure we can loot... I want some rubies. I like red rubies. Do you think it will take long?" The words just tumble out as she smiles, all the while thinking of the fun they can have with there new companions.

"I suspect so," answers Evelyn jovially to Mitra. "Bad men do like to steal princesses, but don't worry they won't steal them for long. Not if Feruni has anything to say about it," she gives Mitra a playful wink. As Mitra makes her wish for rubies she takes a sneak peek in her waist pouch and sees the grubby bits of coloured glass she has used in past quests. "Yes," she says softly to Mitra with a smile, "I'm sure we will be lucky and find rubies on this adventure, rubies fit for a princess!"

As his new found companions chat about their strengths and inclinations, Feruni keeps his mind focused on the quest. What will he face? Do the Riders have only humanoids on their ranks or do they bear alien powers and creatures? What's up with this whole princess thing those ladies keep talking about? [i:1uflwp0t]At least I'm walking along two priests[/i:1uflwp0t]. Feruni shaked his head when he realized that he's lost focus. That's why he could never attain a fighter training or something. But he had no time to regret that. The major's house was straight ahead now, a few blocks walk. Time to put that cold gaze again.

Xerxes left the inn several minutes after the group left, but his brisk stride caught him up to them in good time. He keeps his distance, following from a good 30 paces back, suspecting, but not completely sure that they are also on their way to see the Major. they chat idly and seem in good spirits, he wonders if any of them have ever seen real combat before. ((I follow the group into the town hall if they go in, otherwise I just go in by myself and look for the Major's office))

Into the sun from the tavern front door, Reyn shifts his rapier so it sits easily on his left hip. He squints into a blue sky with thin wisps of high clouds and spots a hawk being tormented by a pair of sparrows. The smaller birds diving and wheeling about the predator in attempt to convince it there is easier hunting elsewhere. Another sigh as he steps to catch the others that have joined to respond to the major's posting. Omens are grey things with little substance until future becomes present and present becomes past. Reyn looks for an old women and a bent stick to cajole him of his poor fortune. [i:2igdy2p0]There got to be one around[/i:2igdy2p0], he thinks laughing to himself. It's time to change the day. Or at least issue a rebuttal against its apparant beginning. Walking behind the others, but closing the gap, Reyn begins to sing, low at first, as if to himself, and then as the morning lets go he forgets courtesy and convention. The song is a version of [i:2igdy2p0]Field Mouse and Osprey[/i:2igdy2p0], but he sings it is Elven to let it flow and make the counter melody lighter. The field mouse talks his way out of the osprey's dinner plans by guile, humor, and a little luck, but mostly out of spirit. [dice:2igdy2p0]20+8[/dice:2igdy2p0] Perform : Field Mouse and Osprey Finishing, Reyn looks up unaware of whether he actually stayed on key or kept the tempo just right. As the singing itself was enough. Out of habit, Reyn holds out his hands palms up as he approaches the others. "Apologies, I didn't mean to skulk about and follow. It seems we are of similar purpose and I missed the turnings and directions."

The silver haired girl steps protectively in front of the dark haired girl, holding her hand, as the man speaks to them. His tone is apologetic and she doesn't sense any malice in his expression. She studies him hard before speaking, "You have a beautiful voice sir," she says softly, "It would appear today is a day of making friends." she glances to the broad shouldered man and handsome elf. "If the others pose no objections, I do not see why you can't join us if you so wish." she continues. "Do you know of our destination?"

She scowls and whispers quietly in Evelyn's ear with her hand in front of her lips, "Eve I don't know. Remember the last thing that was singing... it had wings and a stone thing and it wasn't very nice about us." She tugs the hem of her dress, a clear sign that she is worried. "You remember what happened to the last one." She arches her forehead forward and levels her eyes. "Will this one be a nice singer?"

Evelyn listens intently to Mitra before returning her gaze to the newcomer. "Perhaps you would be so kind to tell us your name sir?" she asks softly.

(([b:20hqokh7]For those that have chosen to meet the major turn 4.5 is up and a new map. Feel free to finish your roleplay here first if you want.[/b:20hqokh7]))

Evelyn squints her eyes as the sun glares down on them, she already feels the uncomfortable heat of the air building up around her. "As we are so near our destination already, perhaps we should continue our introductions in a cooler place inside." She turns and walks toward the town hall, gently leading Mitra with her. [Evelyn is off to turn 4.5]

Xerxes heard singing coming up from behind him, Elven, not unpleasant, it's a song he's never heard before. The singer is quickly catching up and calling out to the mottled group. Xerxes continues past and moving on ahead giving the group a wide berth when he sees the girls on edge. He continues up to the town square and walks into the town hall looking for the Major's office. 4.5

[i:34hsimmg]What a nice song[/i:34hsimmg], the barbarian smiled. A nice prologue to an upcoming challenge to the recently united band of adventurers, or maybe just a prelude to disaster, but such a nice song can’t possibly mean something bad, can it? Feruni did a sudden stop, then turned his body back, just in time to see the man responsible for the music greet the band. [i:34hsimmg]Same purpose, he said; I doubt any of them are here to become a hero[/i:34hsimmg], wondered the barbarian, tightening his eyes, devising a glorious road, a tough one, but glorious nonetheless. He turned again to the major’s house direction, his adrenaline raising to almost a frenzy. [i:34hsimmg]Chill down, man, the time is soon to come[/i:34hsimmg]. The barbarian entered the hall. ((Over with turn 4))

((This thread runs in the same timeline as the other turn 4 thread, however this thread is for Zinnaella and Tathza Sabran to post too as they are currently separate from the rest of the group)) [b:n1x3i1cq]Zinnaella is in the Leaky Barrel Saloon (south of Belfor) waiting for Tathza Sabran to appear. Zinnaella had a request from the Delas Chce to meet with major Kam Zname and Tathza Sabran a long time aid to the major also had met with Kam Zname. Kam Zname has told them he needs people to destroy the “Hidden Riders of Tomorrow” and to return a most important family item for his daughter Ktera Zname. They had decided that it might be best to get to know each other if they were to work together. So Zinnaella had asked Tathza Sabran to come to this pub for a chat this morning. [/b:n1x3i1cq]

Zinnaella stifled a yawn, as last nigt's crowd had kept her busy until early in the morning. Regardless, she knew when sleep came second - and to Delas Chce and major Kam Zname, it was a distant third. She spent the time waiting doing some clean-up around the bar. Even though the place wasn't rowdy, there always seemed to be something to clean - and the day's heat wasn't making the job any easier. She took a break and went to a mirror, wondering who exactly this Tathza was - and what she was going to say. Zinnaella brushes a few strands of her shoulder length black hair off her face, the heat and sweat preventing it from flowing as it normally would. [i:2p2du99j]Why me? Why would Delas Chce ask me to join this? There are many that are better suited.[/i:2p2du99j] Her thoughts tended to flow this way, her nature not allowing any sense of self confidence. She shook her head, forcing out the thoughts for now, looking herself in the eyes once again. [i:2p2du99j]Well, at least this Tathza won't be expecting much from me either, not with this outfit[/i:2p2du99j] she thought as she looked down to her work attire, the midriff cut bustier laced together down the front, and her black skirt with the high slit up her right leg. It was definitely not professional attire for the job at hand, but it was what she had for now. Thinking of the job at hand again caused a slight frown to come to Zinnaella's face; these Hidden Riders of Tomorrow were causing trouble and would continue to do so most likely until they were stopped. But how to stop them, and how to retrieve this family item were the big questions before all those that were to get involved.

The door to the Leaky Barrel Saloon swing open, flooding the pubs gloom with sunlight. Many figures cast there eyes at the intruder, hands sneaking to their weapon hilts. A figure walked calmly thru and shut the door behind him. With the rooms gloom returned to it a pair of sharp golden eyes stared back at the men. The eyes flashed silver for a moment then returned to their golden hue. Some men went back among their business while others griped their hilts all the harder now that they saw a being they both feared yet were curious of. Tathza would have prefered a better place to meet. He was slightly known in the area yet this did little to help him. This place held the old scent of his former life. But they were surfacer's and so less of a threat. More then anything they were annoying. Tathza could only hope that the customers of this hole were wiser then the norm. He took a deep breath and made his way to order from the burly barkeep. "What do you want drow?" Tathza replied "I would like a drink or is that beyond your abilities" the barkeep glared but prepared a drink and set it down in front of him. "I would also prefer some cheese" the barkeep turned to pick some from the mantle behind him. Tathza droped a silver coin next to the drink and when the barkeep turned took the cheese in a wrapper. "Hold on elf, you owe me more then a silver" the barkeep crossed his arms, Tathza turned, his golden eyes shifting to silver "If you wish to fool someone into paying you more then something is worth I would suggest you choose someone less keen on such things, the wine is common and less then a decade aged, as for the cheese it is misproduced and will soon become poison to any humanoid" with that Tathza moved to take a seat at a table against the wall. The barkeep glared from accross the pub but otherwise he was ignored. Tathza produced a small book and begain reading. He broke apart the cheese and dropped a small chunk into a pocket where his rat familiar sat. He wondered as he read when it would begin. Many had the impression that humans were true creatures of chaos, this may have been true for some humans but as a race Tathza found them largely predictable. If he was left alone he would find it a pleasent surprise, yet their was always the chance that some fool human would wish to prove himself by taking on a drow. He checked his dagger under his robe, the oiled blade could come out silently and at a moments notice with its poison ready to strike down his enemies. Tathza would never let his guard down but he had to admit that he would rather meet this female and be done with this place.

Zinnaella noticed the entry of the dark skinned elf, and based on the description she had been given she had to assume this was Tathza. She took a few calming breaths, glad that she knew the regulars at the tavern would come to her aid if she was wrong - or things went bad. She steeled herself for this talk, knowing that it had to happen even though she didn't like being the one to make contact. Although there was some tension at his arrival, Zinnaella knew that no one here would start anything either so it was now or never. Zinnaella grabbed a mug of water and made her way to the drow's table. She gave him a slight nod and took a seat across from him. She looked down at her drink, speaking softly. "Relax Tathza, these are good people and will make no move against you first. I trust that we can be civil, yes? I am Zinnaella, what do you know of these Hidden Riders we have been asked to deal with?"

Tathza thought to himself how amusing things had just become. This was the female that he was going to be working with. Nothing but a child with a few tricks he could tell by her movements. He did give notice to that skilled grace that most humans lacked which meant that she was not only quick but controlled in her movements. Her frame was not over powerful but the muscles she had seem honed well. Tathza shook his head to loosen his silver hair and locked his golden eyes on her. "Good people who will not act against me first you say, so the men who have their hands on the hilt of their blades and the barkeep who wished to cheat me are what you would call good. While I have paid fairly what is worth and have done nothing but sit here. It would seem that we have very different ideas of civility my dear, and I would rather take to my own civility over that of humans. That being said I know very little of our hidden friends for they seem to have some measure of cunning. Seeing as we have been called and enlisted so to speak they are considered a threat, not a overly large threat as of yet but that is changing." Tathza took a small sip of the wine and wrinkled his nose at the taste. "I stand corrected I did over pay, Do you have any information?"

Zinnaella nodded to the drow, then cast a glance back at the barkeep and gave him an obvious nod. He looked down, almost in shame, and shortly after the majority of the crowd at the tavern also relaxed and returned their attentions to their own concerns. Zinnaella turned back to Tathza, "Better? As far as Prave, consider his attempt to charge more as a test if you will. Maybe not the smartest move, but he is a good person. As far as these Riders - I know that they are outsiders who are stealing from our city, and apparently recently stole from the major's daughter. Hopefully Kam Zname will have some more information to share, along with some more aid, at his meeting in a couple hours." Zinnaella glances down at her outfit, "I probably should change before that meeting..."

Tathza nodded and said "I will wait here for your return" Tathza focused his mind on Aknma and the rat left his robe pocket. Aknma would follow Zinnaella and report back to Tathza. Tathza trusted no one without cause and until such a time as his trust was earned he would keep a close eye on anyone he dealt with. Not that Tathza would trust anyone completely but he would at least make sure that they could be trusted enough not to get in his way.

Zinnaella left Tathza at the Leaky Barrel and headed home, taking one of her many quasi-random routes. She checks a couple times behind her during the short trip, checking for anyone (looking for humanoids, not rats) - it wasn't that she was worried about anyone looking to mug her, but it never hurt to be a little careful. ((Spot check)) [dice:19athxdy]1d20+4[/dice:19athxdy]

Aknma follows her. [dice:lj2hi8p2] 1d20+2 [/dice:lj2hi8p2] Hide +16, Move Silently +12

((Assuming that she spots no one following her, otherwise I'll have to change something - but since the other group is ready to head to the mayor's office - I wanted to make sure that we get the entire group together as soon as we can.)) Zinnaella enters her place and closes the door tightly behind her. She then quickly goes about changing from her work clothes to those more befitting an adventurer - her armor, cloak, and pack. She slides her rapier and weapon belt into the pack as well, not wanting to walk around town with it on display, not just yet. She looks at her cloak, and decides to pack it in her backpack as well, deciding it was too hot to wear it around today. She checks her daggers and decides that she is ready to go, so she leaves, locking the door behind her, and heads back to the Leaky Barrel Saloon, taking a much more direct route back to the tavern. She slides into the tavern, and stops a couple paces from Tathza. "It's time," is all she says. Once Tathza rises, she heads out and leads the way to the Major's Office. As they walk, Zinnaella casts a couple side glances at the half-drow before finally speaking again. "Uh, Tathza, may I ask you something more personal? Umm, why were you picked to help? Tha..that is, I don't know why I was selected, so I was hoping that maybe, perhaps, if you knew the reason that it might, you know, possibly, help explain why I was."

Tathza gives a side long smile at her and hands her a vial of drow poison then replies "That is very simple, we both have useful skills. I have my magic, knowledge, and ability to speak many languages to name a few, you have your many own skills as well. But above all these things we are both very gifted at finishing what we start and not letting things get in our way or so I would hope in your case. Tathza's gaze grows cold for a moment. "The truth of the matter is that I am here to do a job and be rewarded for the completion of that job. What my reward is, well that is something you will have to figure out on your own. As for why you were chosen, I would think is because you are best suited to this little mission of ours and that you can be trusted to do what is best for those who sent you. As the pair walks father away Tathza equips his rapier and hand crossbow that he had put into his bag before. He moves his robe to allow quick access to the weapons without displaying them completly. He also imparts a mental message to Aknma to stay well hidden and a nose out for trouble.

Zinnaella takes the vial and looks it over while Tathza speaks. Although it is obviously not marked, she can guess as to the contents for the stories of drow poison are as well known as the evilness of drow is. Of course, this Tathza didn't seem as evil as the stories she heard - so she would just have to wait and see. After all, she knew all to well how deceiving preconceptions could be. She thinks for a moment on what he has said and then finally nods in agreement. "Good points indeed. Perhaps we shall work well together indeed," she says, as she slips the vial into her belt pouch for safe keeping. Poisons weren't her strength, but if Tathza was willing to hand a vial to her, the least she could do if keep it safe until he needed it again. She then made her way to the office, letting the receptionist know that she and Tathza were expected.

Tathza hated waiting. Something that the drow gave up from their surface relatives was needless waste of time. Tathza showed not a single sign of this, yet it was still annoying. "I would think that more then simply the two of us would arrive. Perphaps we are not the only guest." Tathza had Aknma take a few deep breaths. His mind had the impression of fresh food and drink but nothing to take notice of. Tathza went over the magical power with in his mind. Taking note of what he had at his call, you could never be over prepared, after all thats what had kept him alive. He noticed Zinnaella looking over the room with more then simple curiousity. A rogue at heart he thought with some amusement.

[quote="OmniChaos":11whvmaq] "Please enter into the guest room, the Mayor will be with you shortly. Feel free to help yourselves" The woman left the pair. The room was small but comfortable with food spread out and goblets next to pitchers of juice and wine. Tathza touched nothing and remained standing. He thought to himself how such urgent business could afford such time. He noticed Zinnaella looking over the room with more then simple curiousity. A rogue at heart he thought with some amusement.[/quote:11whvmaq] ((I assume this is him day dreaming, as your next visit with the major is yet to come ))

(([b:2xd0doe0]For those that have chosen to meet the major turn 4.5 is up and a new map. Feel free to finish your roleplay here first if you want.[/b:2xd0doe0]))

((Continuing the conversation, but over at the new thread since it takes place at the major's office.))

((Those who have chosen to meet the major, post here, anyone who decides not to meet the major then they should continue posting in turn 4)) [b:3u2w4e4c]The time is 11:40 am and it has turned out to be another incredibly hot day. As you walk to the town hall (it’s easy to find, and if not any local tells you) you hear people chatting about how unusually hot the weather has been this year. You all of course have noticed that too and you wonder why this year should have such an extreme summer. You walk into the town square and the town hall is easily the most dominant building on the square, it is particularly grand with pillars and large oak doors that are currently open. In the centre of the square you see a statue of the famous champion “Uklizim Byt”. That champion fought over six centuries ago in the demon wars and he along with some other key champions, grand wizards and supreme clerics were the pivotal factor in banishing most of the demons back to their own plane and locking rift gateways that enabled them to enter this world in the first place. You walk into the town hall and notice the door to major Kam Zname’s office which has a large golden plaque with his name on and the indication just below that opening hours are strictly from noon until 3pm. You have around 20 minutes to wait until noon, luckily there is seating here for around 5 persons.[/b:3u2w4e4c] [size=150:3u2w4e4c][color=#FF8000:3u2w4e4c]((NEW MAP showing the town hall, Please place your characters on it, the new map uses the same web address as the last one))[/color:3u2w4e4c][/size:3u2w4e4c]

Evelyn walks into the town hall and relaxes as the cool air washes over her skin. She is pleased with the respite from the glaring sun and walks to the Mayor's door and reads the gold plated sign on its surface. she looks around and sees the seats so makes her way calmly to one of them, and sits down.

As she waits for the others, she closes her eyes and murmurs a silent prayer to her god.

Mitra sits next to Evelyn, and tidies her dress. She starts picking at Evelyn's dress. She then get bored and begins to swing her legs while puffing out air. "Why can't we go in and see the Mayor now... is he a mayor or a major cause people call him different things?"

[quote="OmniChaos":1x0uz3m1]"I would think that more then simply the two of us would arrive. Perphaps we are not the only guest." [/quote:1x0uz3m1] Zinnaella leads Tathza into the building, quickly noting the sign and posted guards ((according to the map - otherwise, no guards to notice)). She quickly takes stock of the doors and locations of the furniture, and of those that have already arrived. "It seems others have come." Zinnaella speaks quietly to Tathza as they enter and see a few others waiting as well. She moves along the wall and takes a seat in the corner nearest the door, keeping her head down and not making direct eye contact with any of the others.

"Don't worry," whispers Evelyn to Mitra, "it wont be long now." she glances at the two new arrivals, who had arrived while she had been in prayer. She pays them little heed, but finds her attention is drawn to the dark skinned elf and her curiosity is piqued.

Tathza's eyes slowly scan the others in the room. He is not overly impressed and thinks that these fools may quickly die in a real battle. He walks over and leans against the wall beside Zinnaella and reminds himself that at least she seems to be useful. He makes a mental note, if things should go badly he will not put forth the effort to save the others but he will assist Zinnaella unless the odds are beyond his abilities. He gave a mental cammand and Aknma took a deep breath. Tathza got a mental backlash for a moment. The scent was of the dead and holy, a odd scent for humans, unless their were practioners of the divine. "We have at least one touched by the divine with us it would seem" he whispered to Zinnaella

Xerxes enters and stands on the other side of the hall near the Major's door, trying to be casual he examines each of the other people waiting there trying to determine what it was that each of them could offer to the task of rustling up bandits, [i:1qril1ao]maybe they're here to talk to the major about something else[/i:1qril1ao] he muses. His eyes keep being drawn to the dark elf, he can't help it and ends up inadvertently staring at him.

Tathza found it very tiring to have these surfacers staring at him. He gave the human across the room slightly more credit then he had given the others. He was powerfully built with well worn hands and a solid stance. He was warrior by the looks of him and a professional fighter would be useful. This was a improvement on his fortune. He looked the fighter in the eye and shifted his own to silver and noticed that his body heat was less effected by the temperature, a more resistent fighter at that. Tathza would keep a eye on him.

As Evelyn patiently sits in the town hall, her mind floats back on long past memories brought back into focus due to her vision. Anger swells within her and pure negative energy coarses through her body like an angry maelstrom, 'NO I WILL NOT LOSE CONTROL!' she screams in her mind causing her body to involuntarily shudder. She quickly gains composure and looks to the floor in sublime calm, hoping no-one had noticed.

Val follows the group into the hall and takes a seat near Evelyn, the only person who seems to be a capable ally. Eventhough he quite liked the bard's elven song, he doesn't view him as an adventurer, but only as a mere menestrel who only talks of heroic deeds without being part of it. A lone man, warrior it seems, who had been following them finally enters the room. [i:1lfgrfy4]He seems to be weaker than the first meatshield...[/i:1lfgrfy4] After a while, a frail looking woman enters. [i:1lfgrfy4]Not what I was expecting...[/i:1lfgrfy4] But she is followed by a drow ! At first he wants to stand up and ready his weapon, but then he feels pity for him, [i:1lfgrfy4]a half breed[/i:1lfgrfy4], like his own mother... Val starts to remember the whole story. How he fled from the drows and how he met his exiled mother. This sole character, an arcane magic user as it seems, embodies what he hates and loves the most. A strange feeling, one he never had. Instead of talking with the group or with the new adventures, he simply stares to the ground, looking melancholic...

Xerxes saw the elf's eyes change colour, or had he imagined it? shit, he'd been staring and the Drow had noticed... well, too late now. He decides to start checking over his equipment to keep himself from attracting too much attention, [i:3qstb0hx]maybe if I ignore them I can get away with it, the last thing I need now is to get people asking me questions and then come up short for answers before I even get the job, whatever the elf is here for it's probably related. Thank the gods I don't have metal armor, I haven't been in heat like this since that summer we lost half our crew...[/i:3qstb0hx]

[quote="Xamvim":n9gxodpv]As Evelyn patiently sits in the town hall, her mind floats back on long past memories brought back into focus due to her vision. Anger swells within her and pure negative energy coarses through her body like an angry maelstrom, 'NO I WILL NOT LOSE CONTROL!' she screams in her mind causing her body to involuntarily shudder. She quickly gains composure and looks to the floor in sublime calm, hoping no-one had noticed.[/quote:n9gxodpv] Suddenly Val is brought back ! [i:n9gxodpv]This feeling ![/i:n9gxodpv] He had it only twice before, so this would make it thrice in a single day. The first time was during his meditation when he got his strange vision, then second when he first met Evely. [i:n9gxodpv]Has she something to do with it ?[/i:n9gxodpv] As he looks at her, he notices that see seems anxied and silently asks, as it was some kind of secret: "Are you alright ?"

Reyn lets the others lead into the hall. He is tall and thin, but not nearly gaunt. He walks quietly, an easy rhythm, but pauses at the door to consider the hall before entering. [i:362him25]To close. To small[/i:362him25], he thinks. There would be little room to mark and less to use. But of course, Reyn was simply itchy. Habits and instincts are hard to retrain. A few steps into the hall he turns to take a seat in the front left. Guards were not fools. Trouble would garner concentration on those that needed separation and the door out. Danger lay in an increasing interval from the front or the only apparent exit. A meager bard could be dealt with as an after fact. That is if one didn't garrote them with a lute string. Shifting slightly inward, Reyn eyes find the drows and he forgets the hall, the chair he is sitting in, the dead heat of the day. His lips move soundlessly. [i:362him25]Brothers will be hard to forget[/i:362him25], he remembers. The words in his head unconsciously whispering in an infernal tongue. His mind turns and he smells the deep dark. He blinks once, twice, and breaks the look. Fate is not like a ball of yarn thrown out to haphazardly make a trail. It is a thin line plotted, redirected at specific points, and cut with purpose. Reyn wondered whether he wished to continue following. Up front, another man is standing about seemingly misplaced or, more for it, unwilling to place himself yet in the hall. As he is only short paces away, Reyn reaches out his hand, casting a line. (To Xerxes, assuming that is he up front - my icon not placed/made yet) "Signa von Ebb," Reyn says making an introduction, using his tavern name, the one he gave barmen and patrons upon performing. Is was not so much a lie or deception, but in truth the only name he ever gave. His born name was his and his to keep.

Zinnaella gives Tathza only a slight nod in response to his observation, as she tries to figure out which one has the touch of divine. The standing male was obviously a warrior of a sort, which left the two females and the elf sitting next to them. None of them looked much like any cleric or even apostle thaat she had ever met, but then again religion was not her strength. She couldn't help but notice the attention that Tathza was drawing, which meant that everyone was all but ignoring her. [i:2rrobgh1]I like it, but I'm sure Tathza is not too happy. Although, how he has gone any amount of time without drawing attention everywhere is intriguing in itself.[/i:2rrobgh1] She glances back up at Tathza, and thankfully he didn't seem quite as on edge as he did at the tavern. As they sit there quietly, no one willing to step up first, one of the other women shudders suddenly. Zinnaella wonders if it was a sudden chill, but it wasn't cool inside the building, simply not as hot as outside. She looked over with a mix of curiosity and concern, but as the male elf asked about her, Zinnaella figured it was being taken care of. And yet another stranger enters the building, this one looking even more frail than the others. [i:2rrobgh1]Well, this is an interesting mixture so far - hopefully we won't face to many up front fights with these bandits. Then again, I doubt that would be the way they wanted it either.[/i:2rrobgh1] She still wasn't sure how all this would work, but she had to hope for the best.

Tathza knew many tongues and among them he knew the tongue of devils. He gave one of his half smiles at the human who had spoke the words. He replies in the infernal tongue [i:3aq7pc4v]"Save the Brothers who's back finds my blade, less they be spared even a little thought"[/i:3aq7pc4v] He ignores the man after those words. Tathza was getting interested, yet he was tiring of the wait. He had his own affairs and being kept waiting by someone who had gone thru the trouble of requesting his services was a dengerous thing to do. Tathza also wondered how many of these people had been called and how many had simply shown up with some foolish thought of glory or riches. Not that Tathza would feel sadness should some or all of them die, no Tathza would do what was needed and survive as he always did. Yet he had to admit a few in this group would be a loss should things turn out that way. The world knew no mercy and so it would receive none, at least not from him.

Mitra can feel Evelyn tense and can feel her hand begin to sweat. She looks to Evelyn who is looking at the floor. She squeezes her hand to get attention and gives her a look of concern. She mouths the words "are you okay?" and smiles sweetly. All the while trying to steal the attention off of Val.

"I'm fine," Evelyn whispers to Val, wiping silver hair strands from her face. She smiles at him to put him at ease, but her smile is weak and does not reach her eyes, which have a haunted look. Mitra attracts her attention and she mouths back 'its ok i'm fine' and she gives her hand a gentle squeeze as if to confirm it, her composure now fully returned.

Reyn hand waivers, catches for a moment. His head tilts, ear gathering dark sounds. [i:178wz6so]Methes is that you[/i:178wz6so], his thoughts smirk at him as Tathza words stab sinuously through the air. And he realizes his mistake. Another slip. An unconscious moment. Did he say something? Or simply move his lips? He knows it would have took little for the drow to notice. Keen like a sharp edge. Methes had been so, even in despair. [i:178wz6so]Foolish man[/i:178wz6so], he chides himself. That dark skinned boy died long ago in the deep when his brother in toil skinnied along a unknown shaft to the light and stole away from their tormentors. [i:178wz6so]You left him and he is dead. You left him and are not.[/i:178wz6so]

A lean man walks in looking about him as if paranoid, giving the drow more than a half glance, did he say something? talking to himself maybe... but then... [quote="GeneT":2cd1mzox] Reyn reaches out his hand, casting a line. (To Xerxes, assuming that is he up front - my icon not placed/made yet) "Signa von Ebb," Reyn says making an introduction, using his tavern name[/quote:2cd1mzox] Xerxes is at first shocked, but then strangely comforted by the normal act of a handshake, it helps keep everything on the level. clasping the man's hand he says "You can call me Xerxes", it was the first time he said the name out loud in a long time, the word not yet rolling off his tongue easily. about to ask him a question he's interrupted as the Major's door suddenly opens... off to turn 5

Feruni entered the hall without looking to the sides and went straight to a wall, where he layed his broad back and crossed arms. Waiting is not something that pleased him. He quietly observed as one after another, the volunteers for the job arrived, each one with one's own story, own sorrow, own road, unique abilities. He gave each one of them a quick glance, but kept his face closed. The time for smiles has gone. The time of despair is arrived. Fitting the mayor's door, the barbarian wondered about each of his companions wannabe: the elf priest, certainly of valour; the veiled girl, priestess of spine chill; the horse lady, a mix of mysticism and childhood, a strange mind for sure; the bard, a man of melody and tongues, as he could tell; the quiet warrior, weapons at bay, a firm grisp; and there was that dark skinned elf, a drow probably, an uncertain ally or a deadly foe; the thin woman, cohort of the drow or his equal, certainly much stronger than she shows. [i:2zgmqyrf]All of them are here for the job. But are any of them here to be heros?[/i:2zgmqyrf]. The barbarian stayed still. No moves, no nods, no words. His eyes closed, catching breath. He knew there was a struggle to come, and if so many are reunited, then it must be a big struggle. This was his meditation. He fed from this, from the antecipation of a battle. He renewed himself, grew stronger, felt better. Feruni was ready .. to save the day. And he was glad to have companions by his side. The barbarian smiled, his eyes more confident than ever. The Mayor's door opened. ((Off to turn 5))

[b:3lp9981b] The major’s door opens and a member of Kam’s staff opens the door and politely says “If you are here in response to the recent request from our honourable major then please enter he is ready to see you“. You walk into a room that has desks, lots of shelves containing papers and books. There are workers in the room who seem to be doing administration you assume for the town affairs. A very large bald middle aged man stands in the office looking directly at you. To his side is a rather ugly young lady who his sitting on a stool looking very sad. The man is very finely dressed but it is rather spoilt by the fact that his belly is huge. He is obviously the mayor Kan Zname as he wears a majors chain and symbol of office. He also has a number of medals attached to his jacket which seem to indicate he was a leader of several battles, although you wonder how long ago this may have been given the size of his stomach now. He suddenly bellows “Welcome. Right the business to hand is dealing with these pigs that call themselves ‘The Hidden Riders of Tomorrow’”. He pauses for a bit then continues “They have caused no end of troubles in the last few months, it’s enough that I we are having such hot summer that farmers can barely cultivate there crops but then we have to cope with these hit and run criminals.” The major is getting very red in the face but continues “And the worse of it is they have taken my daughters necklace, she is to get married in two months”. At this the rather ugly looking lady who looks around 18 years of age sitting next to the major suddenly bursts out into fits of sobbing. The major signals to his staff and they leave the room. The lady says in-between the fits of crying “I need that necklace, my husband will never want to live with me if I don’t get it.” She carries on crying. Ken Zname looks visibly upset with the condition of his daughter, he bends down and say’s some comforting words to her and she then too leaves the room still crying. Suddenly Ken Zname slams his fist on his desk with such force that a cup of coffee bounces and falls to the floor smashing, sending coffee everywhere, luckily the cup is pewter and so doesn’t break. He ignores the coffee and says “Damn them, Ktera was supposed to get married in two months, now she refuses to without the necklace she won’t even meet with her husband to be.” He pauses for a little then says more calmly “That necklace was a family heirloom that was handed down from my mother to my daughter when my daughter became sixteen. That necklace is magical, but only when worn by a female of our family line. It bestows the women of our family with greatly enhanced beauty. To anyone else it’s worthless and does not give off any magical aura. So you can see why she wants it back before her wedding.” After another short pause he says “I can equip you all well, a reward of 1000 gold pieces will be given to the group who destroys the Hidden Riders and another 1000 gold pieces would be given to the group that can get back this necklace. My workers will draw your portraits, take your details and give you each 150 gold pieces so you can equip yourselves better. That’s if you are up for the mission, it is dangerous. Don‘t think of running of with the 150 gold as I have many connections and you would be caught” “We can also provide a group with horses are carts for your travels” Pointing to Tathza Sabran he says “this is Tathza Sabran he has aided me greatly in many tasks in the past, I have briefed him in the location the Hidden Riders were seen last, he will help guide you and help in the mission.” Pointing to Zinnaella he says “This lady has skills that may help also, she is to join the mission.” “Are you all still for this mission?”[/b:3lp9981b] ((see map))

Tathza shrugs being tired of the whole thing, the duys heat was not helping. "A guide cant very well give up before he starts now can he" Tathza had been advanced some gold already. He would get another 150 gp before the mission, 1000 gp divide upon his return, and if he played his cards right another 1000 gp divide up as a bonus. With that much gold and his magic, well he would be better off after this little job no matter what as long as he came back alive. Tathza did not harbor ill will towards any of the others but if some should decline or fall, his share would be greater. But he was no fool and would not risk his mission over gold, after all raiding theives had plenty of gold and the dead have little use for such things. "I will do my best to return what was taken and complete this mission" Tathza gave the mayor and the young female a bow, then steped back to allow the others to take attention off of him.

Zinnaella quickly moves into the office when the staff member invites them in. She takes up a spot in a corner to the right of the Mayor, waiting for things to get going and the others to enter. As the mayor provides a little more information as to the quest, she listens - but watches the second group and their reactions discretely, her head still downcast somewhat as she seems to be simply looking at the floor. As the Mayor introduces Tathza and herself, she can't help but cast a quick glance at the half-drow when the Mayor says he has been briefed on the Hidden Riders' location. [i:2z359c0w]Interesting, I wondered if he was actually giving out everything[/i:2z359c0w], she thinks, an understanding smirk coming to her face. Then the Mayor turns to introduce her and she returns to her stone face, although she does raise her head to look the others in the eyes momentarily as she scans their faces, just as they are likely doing to her. She then waits to see who will stick around and join the mission, although she seriously doubts what was said will scare any of them off.

Reyn approaches and nods to the mayor. "Signa von Ebb," he speaks in introduction. "Major Zname. My respect. It would seem that the Riders have been a pestilence not only to the men and woman working the land but to your own lovely daughter. Obviously, they are more than a nuisance and, given the sum of money you offer for their removal, more than a simple matter. Else you could have cheap men track them down and bring them do heel. But why such a pittance to equip when success and retrieval of the necklace is the desired result? Surely, the chance of returning your daughter's necklace and a marriage would improve if any party could more aptly outfit for the task at hand. It is brash to suggest, I understand and mean no disrespect. But, rather than receiving 150 gold now and, by calculation, upwards to 300 gold after, the tactical advantage of outfitting each by giving 300 gold with a chance of more later would bolster the liklihood of defeat of such disreputable and mean souls. There is no risk of a breached agreement with Tathza Sabran and the lady acting as guide and leadership." [dice:2qtd1dw0]20+8[/dice:2qtd1dw0] Diplomacy. Retrieval of Family Heirloom.

Evelyn walks into the Mayor's room, her black dress making swishing sounds as she walks. She still holds Mitra's hand and takes a position to the back of the group. She stays silent allowing her silver hair to fall partially over her face to mask her eyes. She stares intently at the two women, the mayor and the dark skinned elf. Noting their reactions as the Mayor briefs them with his predicament. When the young woman runs out sobbing, she looks to the two to the side of the mayor, to see if there are any other connections between them. When the mayor reveals who these people are, 'so that explains the drow' she muses to herself. The drow has an air of arrogance about him, but she dismisses it and watches the woman. The woman is intriguing for she shows little emotion, she wonders what her skills might be. When the mayor finishes his speech, Evelyn deliberately stays silent, choosing to wait instead. 'its Feruni's quest after all ' she muses to herself, she wouldn't want to steal his thunder. All the while she fixes the Mayor's two 'aides' with an inquisitive stare.

Xerxes says simply, "I'm in", giving the Major a curt nod. He waits for the others to respond and then asks "you mentioned there have been raids, do you know how many men normally attack on these raids and do you have any information about their resources or motivations? what do they have against your fair town?"

Mitra was full of excitement, till she got in and saw the ugly girl, the fat man, the half-drow, and the other woman (who was at least a little bit more interesting). The mayor did his speech, his hand slaming, more speeches, then pointed to the half-drow and the other woman. She stood next to Evelyn and like her waited for everyone else to speak. She was already bored, having worked out that the half drow was a wizard, the woman was a rogue, they had the babarian, a more regimented fighter, a bard, the elf who was divinely touched. She had profiled them all in the time it had probably taken them to think she was nothing important. The room was nice, it had that well used sense about it. The ugly girl had left so the room felt... brighter.

Tathza listens and measures every word and action, in some cases the lack of action or even words. One of the humans was asking for more gold, plain and simple regardless of his honeyed words. Another human a rather large and simple one at that, but his physical aspects were more then enough to make up for any short comings. The two females were childish for the most part, but Tathza was not fooled. He came from a world were females ruled thru being vicious and cunning. Their was more to them, of that he was not mistaken he could sense a priestess from any god but for the other one he sensed no magic of any kind or physical abilities but he did sense power. He would keep a close and silent eye on that one for regardless of her looks she did not move like a human. Tathza would not be surprised if she was not even human but he doubted if she was a shapeshifter. He let the question pass for the moment. Thay had a long road and before they were even on it they had one asking for gold, two that were hiding things, and another that was overegaer to get into something that he had no experience in. Tathza hoped this could be done quickly or at least work with some seasoned allies once these fled or died.

Feruni waited a little, letting a few others enter the Mayor's room. He was to show no hurry anymore. Not now, not until they let him do his things. He stood by the door, stepping foward as the mayor's daughter left, face to face with the mayor, meaning that he had to look down a little. Certainly anyone else staring them would see a huge difference, a warrior -maybe - from times past and the fresh blooded warrior of today. Feruni listened carefully. He cared nothing for the necklace. Such distractions can be left to the horse lady and other to worry. He was interested in the Riders, for they wouldn't last long by his sword's edge. [i:pbv3dr5d]After all, the drow will lead and the girl will do some dirty work[/i:pbv3dr5d], he thought, staring them, but unwilling to scan any emotion or reaction. [i:pbv3dr5d]Fine on me. I don't want to worry with details and stuff.[/i:pbv3dr5d] Still, he knew he'd have to keep his sense keen if he wanted to survive this quest. What would be left of the band after this moment would be facing an entire organization of criminals. No, the barbarian was no fool. He knew things would be tough. That's why he smiled. Before he could say any sentence, the bard stood from behind, and parleied with the mayor, an annoying sequence of words that ended up as one: gold. Feruni pitched, his body turning to the drow and the skilled girl. "Cut the easy talkings, man", the barbarian stated, "let's get to the business". He nodded at the drow and the girl, making them know that he was with them and disaproved any delays. "Tathza, skilled lady, you get the intel you might need. Same for the others", he said, while waving his head around to see everyone. "The warrior there and I are waiting", with a quick nod to Xerxes. Feruni turned back to the mayor. "You do your thing, providing what might be needed, we do our thing. What else needs to be said?". Then he began to scratch his chin, his head up, like if saying "Oh well, how long will this still take"?

Tathza felt a tinge of annoyance. But he kept his face and body from revealing anything. The large human was little more then a novice. Like many humans who have never truely been on the blade of death. He moved and spoke as if he held any sway over the gathered here. All were here by choice and their own purpose. They were not here for some grand adventure or glory and he was not the leading knight in some foolish tale. Tathza would simply dismiss it for now. They will all find out the hard way what battle and death are. But most humans would not learn their lessons easily. They had shorter memories then they did lives. Hopefully he would learn quickly and be useful.

[quote="firewall":isgk6nt9]"Tathza, Zinnaella, you get the intel you might need. [/quote:isgk6nt9] ((Note of interest: Zinnaella was not actually introduced by name by the Mayor. Although, I say let's assume that he actually did.)) Zinnaella simply stood by, shifting her weight from one foot to another, as others of the group spoke up. She mentally noted that the two other females did not speak up either. They are not turning down the job, but yet not agreeing verbally. Either they were simply followers of another in the group, which Zinnaella found unlikely, or they had long ago decided to accept this mission. The two warriors had both agreed, which improved the group's chances with up front fights. And then this Signa von Ebb - trying to alter the arrangement. Zinnaella understood the process, but doubted that it was going to work in this case. [i:isgk6nt9]It's a little larger group, stealth will not be easy. But, it just might work - should even be an interesting distraction from work.[/i:isgk6nt9] Zinnaella then returns her gaze to the floor, waiting to see what answers others give so that they can get started.

[b:2rr2unia]"No more gold now, just the 150 gold each I stated, however the success of the mission is important. We could also let you borrow 3 suits of Breast Plate armor and 3 chain shirts, if you want that. They must be returned at the end of the mission."[/b:2rr2unia]

[b:2eht65lu]Kam rings a bell and his staff return to the office. "For those that do accept the mission please wait here for your details to be taken, then you will be given the 150 gold each and you can go about the mission."[/b:2eht65lu] ((Those who want the mission can take a seat and the process he mentioned is done quickly and you can leave and do some extra shopping if you wish, this town can sell you anything you could buy with that gold. The staff will also bring out the armor if anyone wants to borrow it))

Val follows the others into the Mayor's room. He doesn't really listen to the story, he isn't interested in it. But suddenly, the Mayor claims that each one should get an advance ! [i:3ggb4o29]Great ![/i:3ggb4o29] But then, after a few moments, the menestral starts talking alot to say that he would prefer twice as much, but later. [i:3ggb4o29]What a fool...[/i:3ggb4o29] Val interrupts: "I would prefer the advance of 150 gp right now, as you suggest it, Mister." [i:3ggb4o29]... So that I can get the money without having to fight...[/i:3ggb4o29] With 150gp he could easily disapear especially from humans. Eventhough it seems a good plan, he dismisses it directly thereafter. [i:3ggb4o29]I need to know what the vision this morning and this girl Evelyn have in common, I need to understand that before I can leave.[/i:3ggb4o29] [i:3ggb4o29]So, it's decided[/i:3ggb4o29], he tells the mayor's workers his whole name "Val'anthis" and answers all their questions truthfully. He then takes the gold. "Thank you, oh and I would gladly borrow one of your chainshirts please"

[b:3uzg6jrr]"Also in reply to the question of do we know how many of them come here on the raids. We are not sure but we think between 6 and 10. However there could of course be many more at their hideout."[/b:3uzg6jrr]

Zinnaella sidesteps as the staff return to the office, putting her back against the wall so that other have more room to give their names and sign up. She keeps her head low, but is keeping a close eye on those that sign up - committing their liknesses to memory, just in case. She didn't always like everything she was asked to do, but she could understand the rational for this one at least. She was a little surprised at the bowman, Val'anthis by name, who was the first one to officially sign up since he had been so quiet. [i:3yia6exj]Then again - it was the quiet ones you had to watch, the loud ones are easy to track.[/i:3yia6exj] With that thought, she cast a side glance at the two females that had remained quiet ever since entering the office.

Evelyn listens to Feruni's scolding words to the bard and cant help but smile. She had mistrusted the barbairan at first but his rough and simplistic yet honest approach was a likeable trait. She noted the woman shifting her weight from one foot to another and took it for an eagerness to get on with the quest. She didnt care much for the gold and instead focused on the brief given by the mayor. As a question formed in her mind the warrior asked it and was answered by the Mayor. 'Good' she thought, he asks the right questions, he will be good in our company. She sees Val step forward and give his name to the registrar, she is pleased he wishes to join them also and is comforted by his presence. Letting the others step up and say their views, ask their questions and make their agreements, she decides to step forward. Still holding Mitra's hand she addresses the Mayor in a soft calm voice, "We are at your service, sir." she gives a small curtsey and continues, "We can see how much this necklace means to both you and your daughter and will return to you what once was taken." she glances to the half-drow giving him a sharp look and adds in a soft whisper with no emotion, "The offenders will face the consequence of their crimes and shall be judged and punished in accordance." With that she leads Mitra to the registrar and gives her name, 'Evelyn Good' She then gestures to the dark haired girl by her and says 'and this is Mitra' "I too would like to borrow a chain shirt, if one is still available." she adds as an afterthought She takes the gold and hands one of the pouches to the dark haired girl, and says to her "The first of many treasures to come" she winks and smiles at her before leading her back to a seat.

Mitra waited for Feruni and Evelyn to sign up since it was only polite that she wait for her new "hero". The one hundred and fifty gold coins, was a disappointment as there were no rubies in the bag. Still the Tomorrow people would probably have rubies and she was more than ready to go and see how the others coped. She would keep Mr Choppie alive, just like she promised. She could feel all the minds around her and couldn't wait till she could peak at some of their secrets. She leaned closer to Evelyn and whispered in her ear. "I need to go and get some little baubles, do you think we could go to that nice stone shop on the way out, maybe even get you a tattoo if you don't have anything else to spend fifty gold on."

Evelyn smiles, "Of course, let's see what this town has to offer!" Before they leave she asks someone what time they should meet up and when satisfied, She returns her veil over her face and leads Mitra out into the bright afternoon sun...

When they are outside she tugs Evelyn's hand. "Eve we have to wait for Mr Choppie... the drow might eat him... or the elf might, erm wodd him to death?? Besides we don't know where we are going once we have finished shopping." She gives her a mockingly scoulding look and hffs her dark threads of hair "And you think I'm forgetful. Althrough I am glad to be outside again away from all the secretive people." She then smiles broadly, "and I have you all to myself and not sharing you with that stinky elf, what is up with you and him?"

Val proposes to meet back infront of the town hall in two hours. As he exits the room he simply nods to Evelyn and wanders off, hoping to find some interesting equipment which would help him in his first job as adventurer.

((You are right Zane, my bad. I edited the post, swapping your name to "skilled lady")) When the mayor settled the issue of more gold, Feruni felt relieved, turned back to the warrior, and said "A breast plate could be of some use, uh. I'll be getting one". He then saw Evelyn and Mitra signing up, as well as the others. The two ladies left, hands tight. He was yet to receive the gold and the piece of armor. But, what would he buy with that extra gold? Feruni stepped closer to the skilled lady, disregarding the closeness of the drow, an ally, for now. He put his back over the wall and crossed arms while waiting for the mayor's workers to bring him his needs. "So, skilled lady, where exactly are we heading? I was thinking that, if you're stepping by any shop before you get started, I could join yourself, so we can share informations. I've being in Belfor for a long time, useful things about the Riders might come into my mind as we talk". As the workers bring in the armor, he prepares to don in, hopefully with some help of a companion, as he doesn't want to carry it around. Besides, it looks more like a true warrior. Aftet that, he steps for the door, turning back once again to see who's coming already and, beholding the bard, he grumbles, "C'mon, song speaker, you're gonna get some more gold when the Riders get dismounted". ((Feruni is lending a breast plate, and he'll leave his studded leather with the mayor's workers, to be given back when he's done.))

"We are just friends of course!" Evelyn smiles sweetly at Mitra, "but it is probably best we don't call anyone stinky right now, we don't want to upset our new found friends do we." "oh silly me!" She says," I did forget to mention a location, for our meeting point." "it's not like me to forget such things," she muses "I must have too much on my mind" "But luckily i have you to point out my mistakes!" she gives Mitra a friendly hug. She steps back inside to hear Val declare a time and place to meet and immediately ducks back outside, relaying the information to Mitra. As Val passes outside and nods, she smiles back and watches him go. "Now to our friend Mr Choppie," she says with a wink to Mitra, "I think he is making new friends of his own inside. But we can wait for him if you wish."

Reyn smiled and stifled a laugh. The big man was simple enough. Eager. Making a short bow to the major, Reyn joined the effort. "Agreed Major. You offer of outfitting is appreciated. If there are no others in need of a chain shirt, then I will gladly take the loan of the last" he says, looking to Xerxes who has yet to speak. The fighter may not be accustomed to heavier armor and Reyn knew well enough the the group's survival could depend on more direct men of arms. He couldn't blame eager men. The game was not about more gold. It was judging the mayor, his motivations, and the risk. Reyn thought a simple dismissal of his words would have bode an easier ride. Slightly more gold, a plea to the greedy. But in offering armor, Reyn thought the mayor knew the danger was greater than he would state. Lesser men could ride off with it as easy as coin and, if they were smart, probably would. Armor didn't give them a chance to spoil themselves with beer, mead, and a woman. It meant to supply them with what was needed as opposed to giving them a choice. There was danger here. Whether it would be from the Riders or simply allying with those in the room, Reyn was uncertain. But surely, there would be a song to sing in its end. He hoped, at least for the big man, it would not be a lament.

Mitra waits till the elf has walked off and no one else is around, then she whispers, "I don't like him Eve, he asks questions and the way he looks at you... just makes me want to pool his brains out on the floor." She eyes the back of the retreating elf's head. She snaps back to what she is talking about, and a look of concern crosses her face "What's wrong with you Eve ever since we sat down in there you have been thinking of something else. I don't need powers to tell me something has you spooked. If it's the elf, I'll..."

"She looks at Mitra, the haunted look in her eyes returning." In a soft voice she says "You are right of course dear Mitra, there is something." She looks around so that no one pays them attention and whispers into Mitra's ear, "come let us go somewhere private and I will tell you what it is." [will pm conversation]

"I'll take a breastplate" Xerxes says to the Major's men, returning Signa's look he calls over "Hey Signa, perhaps your silver tongue could be put to use on the town's merchants? care to go shopping?" Turning to Tathza he says "Tathza? can you tell me around how far the Hidden Rider's compound is? I'm off to get supplies and I am unsure how many days travel I should prepare for".

Seeing that the warrior had no interest in his words, Feruni realized that this was going to be far more complex than he imagined. It's not like people would agree on things with ease. He glanced the skilled lady again, just to check if she was coming, while managing to let her know, by his looks, that he'd be waiting outside. As he passed the guards, the barbarian began to wander his thoughts, [i:svjht8e2]so, it appears that the people here aren't heroes, indeed. Am I the only one here for glory?[/i:svjht8e2] That was a thought that made Feruni a little sad. He began to question everyone's motivation and questioned himself about the trust he'd put on everyone. [i:svjht8e2]They'll have to prove themselves out[/i:svjht8e2], he concluded. [i:svjht8e2]From now on, I'll be the bad ass people always thinks I am. Let's use this mass for some advantage[/i:svjht8e2]. He stepped outside, the air renewing his thoughts. The square had an intense flow of people by this daytime. He scanned the walking corpses for a moment. [i:svjht8e2]Which one of you are going to tell the Riders we are coming[/i:svjht8e2]. The barbarian was no fool. He knew those Riders had spies, they must had. And they'd be prepared when the band arrives. He closed his face to a cold gaze again. Time to focus. Time por antecipation. Time to let the blood runs through the veins. Time for bones. He looked forth for a place to sit and wait the others. He found no trail of the favored elf, the horse lady and the priestess. Sudden disapearance's got mean they are on a hurry to get supplies. Or that he misjudged their motivations earlier. They sure were mysterious, specially the horse lady. Still, Feruni had his supplies very well packed: his keen senses and sharp mind, just like the dwarf captain told him. He was ready, although he didn't know what was about to come. He sat and waited, keeping an eye for suspicious attitudes around the town hall. ((Spot check here, looking for suspicious attitudes, like someone eavesdropping, taking notes etc.)) [dice:svjht8e2]1d20+1[/dice:svjht8e2] [color=#FF8000:svjht8e2]((DM: Not with that roll you don't))[/color:svjht8e2]

She mulls over what Eve tells her, then after a minute she says "Well sounds daft to me. We wouldn't need to any of that to get that information. Maybe we should go and teach that guy a lesson?" She pauses seeing that Eve isn't really getting the joke. In a moment of pure clarity and wonderment she says. "Okay well if it has you upset then we will sort it out together, this new form is a bit. Well rubbish at the moment and I've forgotten a lot, so give me a few days and this crazy adventure for the fat ugly girl. This necklace better be able to work miracles. Then I should have remembered a few more powers that I can use to help solve this puzzle." She kisses Evelyn's cheek as she hugs her, and the clarity fades from her eyes. "Come on then, lets go get some tattooes so we can match the brutishness of the other boys." She says with a purely childish smile on her face.

Seeing the large man donning a breastplate, Xerxes goes up to him. "hi, I'm Xerxes, do you need any help with that?" ((assuming a favorable response)) "I believe you're a local, maybe you could help me gather some supplies by showing me around? it would be prudent to try and organize as a group. Also, as a friendly suggestion I'd recommend bringing your studded leather with you to sleep with in case we get ambushed at night"

((This is an interaction with Xerxes that happened before I left the town hall, if allowed.)) Feruni nodded at the question to help him. He donned the armor in, and was happy it fit his broad shoulders. "Thanks", he grumbled. "I'll be outside, at the square, while the other finish their stuff here", he said, while stepping to the door. "Sure we can get some equipment together. Catch me out there when you're ready". The barbarian left the mayor's office. He took the studded leather with him, taking the advice of a trained fighter. Finally, a chance to learn something useful about fighting. ((This little change isn't disruptive, IMO, but still subject to the DM's approval.)) [color=#FF8000:uff6vpwt]((DM: I'm good with that))[/color:uff6vpwt]

Reyn finishes whatever 'paperwork' the major's administrative staff require and throws a chain shirt over his shoulder. The day seems to be turning brighter by the moment. He catches up to Xerxis and the big man watching the square. He wished it would be that easy, finding sell-outs and informants, but they were likely long gone. "A silver tongue has it uses," he smiles, as the chain shirt glints in the oppressive sun. "The enemy will be so keen on trying to cut it out of my head they'll forget the louts with swords," he finishes laughing. He waits with Xerxis to head out and pick up a few extra items and thumps the big man scanning the crowd on the shoulder. "If I die, you can have my share of the gold big man. That way you'll have more to spend before you join me." Pause. "Signa von Ebb," Reyn adds offering handshake. "Sometime singer. Sometime talker. But if you drop, I'll drag you out by your feet, even if I have to fetch them horses you've got to help me do it."

For Evelyn the time passes quickly and she soon finds herself returning to the Town Hall square with Mitra who is still giggling about Evelyn's new Tattoo. She wriggles her spine to try and get used to the new addition to her body, but the tingling sensation on her lower back simply doesnt go away. The pair arrive at the square and Evelyn finds herself drawn to the statue in the middle and studies it for a moment, anything to take her mind of the tingling sensation.

Zinnaella looks up to Feruni when he joins her against the wall. She smiles meekly at the large man, "The name is Zinnaella, many call me Zinn. I'm not sure where we are headed, that's Tathza's department. Hold on a moment." Since the others had already signed in, Zinnaella stepped up and officially gave her name to the mayor's staff and collected her 150 gp. As she did so, Feruni apparently needed some air and stepped outside. "Well Tathza - you coming shopping too, or waiting here alone?" Zinnaella then heads outside where Feruni has a hand up to his eyes, as if looking for something. Zinn can't help herself and quietly moves up behind Feruni. ((Move silently and Hide rolls)) [dice:3am804s1]1d20+8,1d20+8[/dice:3am804s1] Zinn steps up behind Feruni and taps him on the shoulder. "Hi again. I do have a couple items to buy, you're welcome to join me." With that said, she heads into town, toward a certain innocuous appearing shop. ((Heading to a shop that is a cover for Delas Chce so she can get masterwork theives' tools and a potion of cure light wounds, and also buy a sling and bullets.))

Tathza had things to do. "Prepare for at least half a tenday of travel" he said to the fighter and dismissed himself. Tathza made his way thru the maze of the towns more seedy lacations and left them just as quickly with a few more doses of poison. He also got two potions and made sure all his spell components were well stocked. He made his way back to the town hall to await the others.

Feruni watched as the bard approached him, coming closer to the square. At the same time, the priestess and the horse lady arrived, standing by the statue. Looks like everyone was showing themselves as they really are now. As the bard spoke, Feruni studied him. He was a man of smooth talking, it wouldn’t hurt to be precautious. Sense Motive on the bard friendly approach. [dice:22xvz556]1d20+1[/dice:22xvz556] He handshakes the bard, “Feruni, song talker”. Before he could make any jokes, the barbarian stood up in a second, looking behind to the sneaky creature that approached him from the back. He couldn’t hold a smile when he saw Zinn, but before the could manage to balance well, he fell sat near the fountain. Laughing at his own clumsiness, Feruni stood up again, tapped his legs to take off the dust and said to the lady, “you DO have skills, don’t you. It’ll be nice to join you”. He gave a quick look to the town hall entrance. Xerxes was probably coming out already, but he saw the drow stepping outside fast, really fast. No words, no nods, just amazingly drow-ish. “You coming too, man of chords”? He then proceeded with Zinn. ((Feruni will acquire one potion of cure light wounds (50 gp).))

[b:ejvnxdh2]When you had your details taken by the staff they told you to see “Dost Clovek” the stable master at 3pm as he will have a couple of carts and horses for your group, which of course you must return after the mission. The time is now 3 pm and Dost Clovek welcomes you in to his stables, he is a charismatic well built man with a rough but likeable and friendly manner. With a smile he says “I have some fine carts and horses for you. These two carts are for you and I will chose some fine horses for them”. At this point you see an old man pass the doors with a bill board over his front and back with the words “The end of the world is nigh”, he is shouting “we are doomed, doomed DOOOOMED, DOOOOOOOMED, doomed, doomed, DOOOOMED, the rifts are opening, we are doomed, doomed, DOOOMED, DOOOOOOOOMED.” Then you see several guards rush over to him, pick him up and take him away. The stable master goes “Oh dear, poor fellow, poor fellow”. He continues “Now these horses yes I know which ones now they should serve you well”. Be on the watch when travelling due to crops failing in the farms food prices are increasing lots and people are getting desperate so crime is on the up”.[/b:ejvnxdh2] [b:ejvnxdh2][color=#FF8000:ejvnxdh2]((New map, take a look))[/color:ejvnxdh2][/b:ejvnxdh2]

Tathza makes his way to one of the carts and takes a seat towards the back. He has Aknma take a breath and it seems clear. He exams the cart in every detail. The cart is well built and in good working order. Tathza prefered lizards but these horses would serve well enough. He had little experience with these surface creatures that the humens rode.

Evelyn & Mitra enter the stables and while Mitra greets the horses... [just a guess] ...Evelyn makes her way to the cart the half drow sits in. She walks calmly before him and sits down opposite at first ignoring his presence. Then she removes her veil and looks at him direct and says in a soft voice. "you sit at the back when I thought you might lead from the front. Who is this group's leader. you or your lady friend?"

((My first instinct is to make a joke about a kobold named Deekin and his Doom song, but I'll pass.)) Zinnaella arrives at the stables, after having altered her equipment a little back home so she wasn't being weighed down at all. She slips into the stables, hanging back as others arrive and just taking in the situation. As the old man passes by, she mutters "An omen or not?" She shrugs, unsure she even wants the answer at this point in time. After a moment (giving Tathza time to respond to Evelyn), she joins the others in one of the carts, nodding to them. "Uh, does anyone know how to work one of these things?"

Tathza keeps his face expressionless at the females words. "You assume much, while you know little. I am a guide and ally nothing more or less. I do not make choices for anyone other then myself, and I do not hide who and what I am unlike you and your friend" Tathza did not like these people. He could understand and work with the rogue and even the fighters. But not those two, he would not work with them until that time. Zinnaella arrived "I would think that one of the large males could manage, once we have everyone and we have left the town, I will guide us" he said to Zinnaella

"You are right of course" she responds to Tathza, "I do know so little, but then only a fool would believe to know it all." "Thank you for your clarity in your position in this," she continues softly, "i would not want to assume wrongly, later on." "You say i hide who I am," she shrugs, "yes you are right I suppose... as do we all, hide aspects of ourselves..even you sir, have things about yourself, I believe you would rather not tell to everyone..." "am I right?"

She steped round the corner of the stables and smiled a full toothed smile, clapped her hands and went and petted the horses. She loved horses. They were simple creatures that didn't require anything but would accept whatever you gave them. After petting the horses and feeding them half an apple each, while nuzzling them, so that they knew exactly how much they were appreciated. She moved round to the back of the wagon and clambered on board sitting next to Evelyn. The other two sat on the other side were the experts that the Mayor had said would help them. She was to happy to finally be on another quest, the horses had cheered her up, and Evelyn's winsing from the tattoo. Before she had been sad because Evelyn was sad but that had sorted itself out, so with a broad beaming smile she said "Hey I'm Mitra, pleasure to meet you both."

Tathza gives the female a bored look "I never spoke of knowing anything then what I am aware of and how would you know if I hide anything of myself when you have failed to ask. I do not speak of things that have no bearing and so it is not that I hide anything but rather it is of no concern or effect to the mission. If you can say the same then you will hear no more from me" Tathza turns to Zinnaella "We should take the south road out of town then head for the forest, once we are with in the forest I will give you more information"

Zinnaella smiles at Mitra, "Hi Mitra, I'm Zinnaella." She then looks to Evelyn and back to Mitra, "Did you two come to town together?" As Tathza gives out information, she nods to him - but keeps her focus on Mitra, trying to understand her companions more.

[b:1bws2l4z]Dost Clovek while attending to the horses hears the conversation. He turns around to Tathza, raises an eyebrow and says "Well, you're life and soul of the party". He then returns to attending his horses without waiting for a reply.[/b:1bws2l4z]

"Let us finish this debate before it turns down a road I suspect neither of us will wish." she says softly to him "It would appear we have gotten off on the wrong foot sir," Evelyn smiles at the half-drow "My name is Evelyn Good, I am a divine servant of both life and death." she holds out her hand and waits. [after tathza's response] She turns to Zin and repeats her address once more holding out her hand

(when Evelyn introduces herself) Zinnaella smiles to Evelyn and shakes her hand, "Zinnaella - well met."

Tathza crosses his fingers in his lap and looks at the female for a moment then he narrows his eyes. As if being insulted and stays silent. ((Make a dice roll in a sense motive or knowledge skill to figure out what my actions mean unless your a drow or half drow))

sense motive [dice:ml3k259p]20+3[/dice:ml3k259p]

Evelyn waits for him with her hand out [if he doesnt respond at all] she simply shrugs and turns to Zinnaella

"Nice to meet you Zinnaella." She tries to ignore the arrogance coming from the Half-Drow " So your a... erm... what is your profession? Some kind of scout?" [dice:1fwoewna] 1d20+2 [/dice:1fwoewna] Sense Motive ((Just because Mitra can multi-task.))

((Sense Motive result: Drow spellcasters cross their fingers in their lap to show trust (so to speak) and that they are not going to cast spells. Not doing so is a insult and a show of mistrust or future enemy and attack))

Xerxes arrives with arms laden with supplies, ignoring the terse conversation he sets it all down beside the first cart and carefully packs in on. After making sure it's all secured he reluctantly changes into the breastplate armor and secures a longsword, shortsword, two throwing hammers, and six daggers on his person, rearranging them until he's sure he can sit. While he waits for the others he walks around sucking on a lime and taking a few swigs from a wineskin eyeing the horses warily and then offering the same to Signa, Feruni, and Dost Clovek before introducing himself to anyone that doesn't look outwardly hostile.

Zinnaella chuckles at Mitra's suggestion. "Not a scout - well not exactly. I've managed to pick up a few skills here and there that can help, especially help us get in places these Riders don't want us." Zinnaella holds up her right forearm and slowly twists her wrist is a circle. As she does, she suddenly has a dagger in it, which she keeps pointed straight up so as to not be a sign of hostility. She then balances the dagger on a finger for a moment before flipping it into the air. She lets it fall a little, then catches it with her left hand, and uses it to point to her right hand, now holding three pieces of silver, each one held between two of her fingers. ((Slight of hand checks for feats of legerdemain - DC 10))[dice:s9cq7s3n]1d20+8,1d20+8[/dice:s9cq7s3n] Zinnaella smiles, blushing a little, "And skills that are just fun at times."

She looks absolutely amazed at the trick. "Wow... I wish I could do something like that... but I can barely walk in a straight line some times. That must take some incredible skill. Did it take you long to learn?"

Tathza see's Zinnaella doing her tricks and makes a mental note of her skills, as well as her lack of sense in exposing her skill with no need. He wonder how long with would take to get underway. He saw one human with more then enough supplies for the trip. In fact it had been the same human that had asked him the extent of the mission. Tathza mentally shook his head at how some humans just went overbored on even the most simple things.

Zinnaella puts her items away, pleased that Mitra was amazed. "It took a year or so, along with other lessons. It helped that I also had some natural talents as well. So, if you don't mind, what do you do?" Zinnaella looks down, "Sorry, that sounds rude, doesn't it. What I mean is, you must have some talents to risk going on this mission, but I haven't been able to figure out what they are." Zinn looks over to Xerxes as he prepares and gives him a curt nod of welcome, but otherwise keeps her attention on the other two women.

Evelyn is delighted with Mitra's response, and takes an instant liking to Zinnaella. "you are very skillful" she remarks to her "I'm glad you are with us on this trip, it is good to see Mitra so happy."

She stops and looks at those that are nearby. The drow being the closest would probably get annoyed and more arrogant. Eve nods gently and Mitra swallows hard. "I... well... I... let me show you." She reaches out a hand and places it on Zinnaella's hand. "Don't be afraid." She closes her eyes and opens her mind to the world, focusing on Zinnaella's mind and Evelyn's mind since she is holding on to her hand. The links were fairly easy to by-pass as she had no formal training, to stop Mitra. ((Your call either attempt to save or place some trust))

Zinnaella almost reflexively draws her hand back, but then stops herself. [i:dzadsspp]I did ask[/i:dzadsspp] she thinks, letting out a breath and returning her hand to Mitra's. ((Place some trust, gotta start somewhere.))

Evelyn notices Zinnaella's apprehension so says to her, "dont worry Zinnaella, Mitra will not harm you." in what she hopes is a soothing voice.

Tathza removed himself from the cart and went towards one of the horses. He may as well get to know the animals that would take them across the surface lands.

Feruni steps in the stable, taking a deep breath as he recognizes the smell. He'd rather not admit it, but such a place renewed his energies. The horses, long term friends, showed him each day the strength that no man could ever taught him. He could run faster than any human, and have learned to understand the signs everywhere leaves back when they pass, be it animal, human, or else. [i:3f1mzxam]Now, why is that man beign arrested? Did I put eyes on him before? And that thing about rifts and doom?[/i:3f1mzxam] ((Knowledge Local check)) [dice:3f1mzxam]1d20+3[/dice:3f1mzxam] He nodded at Dost, gave a quick glance at the farther cart, loaded up with his companions, yet none would take the seat in the front to guide the horses. He greeted Xerxes, finding more and more confidence in the warrior. By tasting the wine, he says, "Looks like you're not just a warrior, Xerxes. You know how to appreciate the good things of life". He smiles at Dost. "Isn't that true, man"? "Now, look at that. Four on the cart, yet none at the front seat", the barbarian raises his voice. "I imagine you're gonna just fly around with your magic skills and mysterious abilities, right? That's why you need no horses". He laughs. "Which one of us is going to save 'em, Xerxes? I'll be riding this cart here, either let that priest elf guide the other and come with me, or get bored with the mystic ones there." He remembered Zinn was at the cart and yelled, "Hey, skilled lady, I was wonderind if you'd leave the mystics there and come over here with the mundane ones". He handles the bottle back to Xerxes. "Is everyone ready"?

She accesses the part of her mind with her powers and uses one of the new powers she has obtained. She links the three minds together as she was able to do ever since she was a child, so many decades ago now, in another time and another place. She lets go of Zinnaella's hand and looks to Evelyn lovingly. [i:2jsc524o]This link will only last for an hour but we can speak to each other without outside interference. You asked what my power is, mine is the power of the mind. Only we three are linked.[/i:2jsc524o] Her speech within your minds has none of the childishness of her nature and none of the distracted'ness of her being. ((Omni... don't over jump your boundries... you really don't feel anything and have no reason to suppose anything... if you want to find out ask but don't assume. Just like I wont assume I can feel anyones powers, unless I have a power that lets me. I would suggest you edit your post accordingly.))

[i:2igncmj1]You see, you have nothing to fear.[/i:2igncmj1] Evelyn's voice whispers through your minds.

Tathza walked over to the big human Feruni. "You should learn to behave yourself in a less insulting manner. If not you will quickly find yourself as the target of many beings. We have no need to place so many casters with in a single easy target. I will ride with you." Tathza made his way to the back seat. He felt better around the simple humen males. The females were vicious in his mind and until they proved otherwise he would avoid them. Zin was the only female that had shown to be useful. She was skilled, knew when to speak, and more importantly when not to speak. She alone had shown to be capable and professional in her dealings.

Feruni held his lips, which were ready to say some bad words to the drow. [i:1t2prbam]Not yet. Such a feeling must come in real combat. Word dueling is not the arena for me[/i:1t2prbam], he thought. "Welcome aboard then, dark skinned". He glanced Xerxes one of those pheeww looks, eyebrows risen and mouth contracted. "Bet be going then. We don't want anyone else is this whole town to know that we are chasing the Riders". He pumps up in the leading seat of the cart. "Except for those that already know, right"?, he turn his head and gave Tathza a one-eyed gaze. ((Of course I won't leave until the bard and the favored soul post. I'm assuming they are just delayed but RL issues.))

Zinnaella simply lets her arm fall back to her side, her mouth agape a bit as Mitra's 'voice' sounds in her mind. She simply looks back and forth between Evelyn and Mitra a few times, almost in shock. [i:g3veop4a]This... this is, well - it's incredible![/i:g3veop4a] she thinks to herself. Mitra's thoughts then sink in and she looks Mitra in her eyes. [i:g3veop4a]So, you heard that, right? So, we can think, and each of us will hear it? Even as just a taste of what you can do Mitra, this is most impressive.[/i:g3veop4a] Zinnaella then gets a smirk on her face, [i:g3veop4a]And this will definitely be useful in the future, in so many possible ways.[/i:g3veop4a] Zinnaella starts running though all kinds of possible scenarios quickly in her mind, but then suddenly stops, worried that she might overwhelm the other two. [i:g3veop4a]Sorry[/i:g3veop4a] she thinks to the other two, [i:g3veop4a]I obviously need to work on getting used to this, but I promise I will. And speaking of working, although this really isn't speaking is it? Anyway - I believe Tathza will be an important and a good ally, but I know it's easy to take him the wrong way early on. I don't know him well yet either, but I ask that you both give him some more time.[/i:g3veop4a] Zinnealla's focus is then broken by Feruni. She looks over to him and lets his question sink in before looking back to the woman and Tathza. But before she can reply, Tathza agrees to go over to the other cart. Zinnaella gives Feruni a slight smile, "Thanks for your offer, but I see you have a volunteer already." So instead, she leans back against the cart. [i:g3veop4a]There are worse ways to travel.[/i:g3veop4a]

[i:1zvlv7f4]Don't worry about private thoughts, I have been doing this long enough to be able to connect the link so that privacy is still there if you want it. As for your... companion... I suggest if you have an influence on him that you control his arrogance, and watch his tone. Mitra is not the most stable of girls and it's best not to agitate her otherwise, something regretable might happen. Time is something you have for now, but just like water it flows away and then there will be nothing left. Since we are the only woman on this trip then it is best we look out for each other. If you have anything you wish to ask then feel free to do so.[/i:1zvlv7f4] All the time this conversation is happening Mitra has drapped herself next to Evelyn and is waiting to see who else will get on the cart as well as playing with Evelyn's veil.

[quote="Evil Wabit":33dn32xi][i:33dn32xi]Mitra is not the most stable of girls and it's best not to agitate her otherwise, something regretable might happen.[/i:33dn32xi][/quote:33dn32xi] ((Was that intentional - Mitra saying that she wasn't the most stable, in the third person? It may have been, I just want to make sure before responding to it.)) Zinnaella chuckles out loud, likely drawing looks for the other cart since nothing has been said for a little while. [i:33dn32xi]*I* influence Tathza? I'd be surprised if even the mayor has any real influence over him. I just, well, I think I understand a little bit what he could have gone though - being rather different and everyone knowing it. I'd just like for us all to work together well.[/i:33dn32xi] She mentally shrugs, knowing that nothing of the sort was guaranteed.

((It was intentional.))

Reyn is last, or so it seems. He had been lounging in the shade of a tree after leaving the company of Feruni, Xerxis, and the lady after shopping when the guards went past him dragging the damning man kicking and screaming down the lane. He continue his rant until being cuffed hard in the mouth by one of the guards. Reyn stayed motionless. The man was wrong. The rifts were not 'opening'. They were open. It took a while for him to rise and eventually make his way to the stable. All were gathered. Seeing Xerxis, he had to smile. It would seem the fighter had put his money to good use and held a wineskin out to Feruni. "Feruni has decided you have good taste. Let's see if the brute is right," he says with some humor and accepts the wineskin from Feruni. "Passable. Especially for riding in the back of a wagon," Reyn winks, following Feruni to the other wagon. Looking back at the others, he pauses. Time enough to sort those out, he considers as the drow leaves them to join Feruni. [dice:1ezxq6tg]20+2[/dice:1ezxq6tg] Spot the conversation between Zinn, Mitra, Evelyn "Xerxis, why don't you take the other cart. I'm needed here to protect Feruni against the Dour Drow's tongue," he shouts loud enough for the stable dog's flees to hear. "And to protect the casters by drawing the enemies fire singing the never-ending refrain of The Over Proud Sow should we chance upon them on the road." Climbing up in the seat next to Feruni, he glances back at the dark elf. "You don't sing by chance good guide?"

((Nope you can't spot the telepathic conversation.))

[quote="Evil Wabit":2mvjyi7g]((It was intentional.))[/quote:2mvjyi7g] ((Figure it will be easier to make a new post than to add to the previous.)) Zinnaella then stops all thought and motion - just looking at Mitra for a moment, watching her play with Evelyn's veil. [i:2mvjyi7g]Yes, we wouldn't want to upset Mitra, or Evelyn, or you that matter I am sure.[/i:2mvjyi7g] Zinnaella knew she might be pushing her luck now, but if you didn't push now and then, what fun was life.

((I meant Spot the interaction. But no matter. The only thing I can spot at the moment is the horse dropping one in front of the cart))

[i:35qaizi8]Don't make assumtions. I'm Mitra, we are all Mitra. I know it is hard for you to comprehend, but there are many of us in here. No doubt you will meet a few more of them.[/i:35qaizi8] She winked at Evelyn so that only the two of them could see. She kissed her on the hands and carried on twirling her veil.

Tathza gives the human a blank look "I give voice only to my art." Tathza had enough of the petty emotions and ego's of these self interested beings. Only one had shown any value. They had little interest in the mission but more then enough for their own goals. They reminded him of what he had left behind, yet they had not the drive or focus. He would let the others fend for themselves. How many would fall he wondered.

Zinnaella actually visibly relaxed, as the response was a lot better than it could have been. [i:2lirx0w1]Very well,[/i:2lirx0w1] she thought back to the other two. Zinnaella then decided to not focus so much on the two females but to see what everyone else was doing and what was keeping them. As far as she could tell, almost everyone was back - except for the male elf, Val by name.

When Tathza speaks of spacing out the caster's Xerxes turns to him and says "a mage eh? I can assure you I know the value of magic; no ship, or crew for that matter, should be without a ship's wizard, lime?" Turning to Reyn (Signa to me) "I would go with the others as you suggest, but I fear I have no experience with horses whatsoever" calling to the ladies he says "Is one of you able to manage the horses? if so I will join you, if not, then perhaps the archer can assist" Xerxes puts the wineskin away in his pack and dons a blue and black bandana as the sweat starts to bead on his brow

[i:1412yxbw]She took that well. A lot better than most.[/i:1412yxbw] She passed the messages only to Evelyn. [i:1412yxbw]It fealt nice to trust at least one of these new companions. However I still feel uncomfortable about the drow. The others feel fine, at least the others don't seem to be faking anything. Val seems to be very interested in you.[/i:1412yxbw] She moved closer and sighed. [i:1412yxbw]At least we are together again.[/i:1412yxbw]

Val rushes to the stables. "Sorry for being late, had trouble find find a good bow in this town." he tells, quite exhausted. "Did you already came up with an a strategical division for the group ? It seems that it would be better if I go with you guys, as the other cart already got a healer." He looks at Evelyn, quite disappointed not being in the same cart to have an interesting conversation about her divine powers.

Zinnaella looks to Val as he enters, "If you have any experience with horses, please join us."

Val turns to Zinnaella. "To be honest I never tried to ride a horse, but I assume my natural agility will serve me better than nothing"

Zinnaella gestures him to the driver's seat of the second cart and the group is soon underway. ((On to Chapter 2))

[b:1lvvpnqe]Dost loads the carts with 2 weeks rations for all of you then at 4pm you leave with your horses and carts and Tathza tells you to take the south road and start travelling through the forest path. As you head towards the forest you realise that the fields are very dry and wonder if these crops will fail too. The “Dela Vidim” forest sits close to the south of Belfor and Tathza tells you that it will be at least 2 days of travel through the forest. You come to forest and continue on the road that leads through the forest. You travel for several more hours and it’s 11pm when you arrive at a forest clearing next to the road which obviously has been designed as a place for travellers to stop and rest off from the road.[/b:1lvvpnqe] ((As usual those who have not posted on the previous thread can still do so and then assume they are here, the good thing about a separate thread for each turn is that if you miss a couple of days it‘s easy to join in and catch up)) ((New map guys, place you characters)) ((It's up to you if you want to rest the night here, if you decided to then would someone please PM me the watch order if you have one.))

"I would suggest we rest here for the night" Tathza's body had dust on it and was sore from the long ride. He wanted to clean himself and look thru his spellbook. There was little point in finding the riders if he was sore, dirty, and tired. Maybe the humans were used to their own smell but Tathza hoped never to become accustomed to it. "I would also suggest that if any of you have the ability to see in darkness thru magical means or otherwise that you take a watch after night falls."

((sorry to be a pain Than - but my cleric needs to pray each day at dusk - which represents from life to death - if possible i would like to insert this before we arrive at 11pm)) [color=#FF8000:11kz5lbx]((DM: That's fine for this type of game, some time back tracking will need to be done. In things like 'Lost' they do it all the time, so a little of that here isn't too much of an issue))[/color:11kz5lbx] As dusk fast approaches, Evelyn begins to get aggitated as she knows she must complete her daily vigil to her god. She doesn't wish her new found companions to think her a hindrance but her god wishes come before all others. "I'm sorry," she says softly (to the person driving) "but can we stop the cart, I must fullfil my vows. (assuming the cart stops) She walks off the cart to the side of the road and facing the setting sun she kneels on the grass. Carefully she produces a small black roll of velvet. From within the roll she brings out two candles, one black and one white. She places the candles on the ground before her and brings out two metal half pipe shaped objects and place them around the candles. From the velvet roll she carefully slides out a collection of finger bones, of varying sizes. She arranges the bones on the ground into a neat symbol of an Ankh. Once done she produces a small piece of partially burned parchment, and places it over each candle, burning it further. With the parchment over the bones, she blows on it gently, causing the burnt area to break up, sending paper ashes, to gently fall on the bones and earth below. Once done, she lowers her head in prayer and gently sings a sorrowful lament. When the song comes to an end she stays quiet in prayer until the sun disappears and is gone for another day. She gets up and smiles to those who watch. "Thank you," she says, as she climbs back onto the cart.

"I agree Tathza, it's late and we won't be safe travelling in the dark, as an elf don't you have the keenest eyes of us all in the night? I could take first watch with Signa, maybe Val and Feruni could take second and you and Zin could take third?" turning to everyone "what do you all think?" he says while pulling out a bullseye lantern and some oil.

"I will need at least four hours of complete rest, other then that I could keep watch as long as needed" Tathza picked up a strong smell. He had to control himself to keep from showing any sign of his disgust. "I think I will need five hours instead" Aknma did not mind the smell but agreed about the cleaning as his fur was full of dust and dirt, making him itchy.

Evelyn steps forward, brushing the dust from her dress as she walks, "I too have means to see in the dark, and am most comforted in its presence." she says softly, "I will gladly put my name forward for one watch, should i be needed."

"Seems fine to me, but you and I could take the first turn, then let the drow and the elf take it until dawn. I heard they don't sleep much anyway", the barbarian states, while he tied the horses to nearby trees, checking if they're all okay. "I'll manage to put a camp fire on". ((Survival check for basic camping, fire and stuff)) [dice:24i6a51d]1d20+5[/dice:24i6a51d] [color=#FF8000:24i6a51d]((DM: You start a fire easily))[/color:24i6a51d] "While you arrange yourselves, I'll take a look around. Do you mind joining me, Tathza"? ((Survival check to find trails, as per the Track feat. I want to know what recently bypassed the nearbies outside the road.)) [dice:24i6a51d]1d20+5[/dice:24i6a51d] [color=#FF8000:24i6a51d]((DM: you notice some bipeds, human perhaps and fourlegged perhaps wolves or dogs))[/color:24i6a51d] ((I'll PM Tathza with some info ifhe joins me. Thandren, it's about that Knowledge local check you PM'ed me.))

Zinnaella silently watches Evelyn's ritual, impressed by the dedication required. When they reach the camp and are discussing watches, Zinnaella listens as they discuss plans for the evening's watch. As Evelyn agrees to one of the spots, her words cause Zinn to make a mental note to talk with her at some point in the future. Zinn was ready to agree to the third watch, but now the plan seemed to be for only two watches. [i:1ap6nn0g]As long as we're covered, I guess it doesn't matter.[/i:1ap6nn0g]

Turning to Feruni and Evelyn, "if you have means to see in the dark all the better, how about Feruni and I take first watch as he suggested and then I will wake you so you can take watch when the night is darkest, you can pair up with whoever you wish and then have Tathza and someone else relieve you until dawn" Xerxes starts to turn away and head to the road, but then stops and asks "also, I brought a tent.. uh, if you and the other two girls wish to use it you are more than welcome to it, I am not used to travelling with women, but I'm sure you would appreciate the privacy if not the shelter" ((Thandren, just so you know, I'm lighting my bullseye lantern and I'm taking up first watch on a vigil of the road, scanning the forest and the road, I've got my shield and other normal combat equipment with me, as shown on map))

Evelyn smiles at Xerxes and says, "Thank you Xerxes, you are most kind to let us use your tent." "I am happy with your arrangement, so shall retire until I am needed. I will watch with whoever, wishes to watch with me." she bows graciously and turns to walk toward the others in the camp.

"the tent is in the canvas sack over there, I'm sure some of the other guys will help you put it up, I have to go on watch now otherwise I'd help" Xerxes takes up his position on the road, his lamp ready, but covered behind his shield for the moment.

"Keep the camp simple, Xerxes. We are just here for a night's rest. We should be able to move with ease and speed". Feruni finished the camp fire, and took a ration out of the cart to replenish his energies. "We shall stay no longer than we need".

Tathza accepts with a nod and starts to walk with the human around the area. "What is it that you wish to speak with me about?"

Val jumps down from the cart and goes to Xerxes. "My eyes see further than those of humans, but in the darknes of the night I'm as blind as you. So I will let Miss Evelyn and the dark elf take the second watch instead. My abilities will be better used if I take the first watch with you."

[quote="Kurzio":368x45bu]Val jumps down from the cart and goes to Xerxes. "My eyes see further than those of humans, but in the darknes of the night I'm as blind as you. So I will let Miss Evelyn and the dark elf take the second watch instead. My abilities will be better used if I take the first watch with you."[/quote:368x45bu] "sounds good, I plan on staying close to the road and then doing walks around the camp every once in awhile" Xerxes doesn't say anything to Feruni, he just nods and watches him walk away with Tathza. turning back to Val he says "I am not used to travelling on land, but I can see that Feruni has a point"

While taking an arrow from his quiver "Ok, I will watch near the campfire. We can wake up the dark elf after 5 hours he said"

Tathza walks away from the human and makes his way into the near by tree's. Tathza thinks to himself of what a tiring day it has been. He lets Aknma take a near by post to stay hidden. Tathza disrobes and begins using his most basic spells to clean and refresh his body. Many drow spellcasters took for granted these simple spells for they rarely came in use with in the dark cities. Tathza thought of the bathing pools with their warm sweet smelling water and the servents with their trays of cold juice and fine wine. Tathza truely wished to make his fortune so that he could build his tower and never be without such comforts again. Tathza knew his magic could clean him but it could not give him the pleasure of a warm bathing pool and that was something he indeed regreted. Tathza would take his time returning. He had been insulted enough and was in no hurry for more.

(( When someone does a roll check that needs a resolution from me, I try to reply by editing the post and giving my resolution in orange text starting with "DM:")) (( If I miss one, you could give me a nudge by PM'ing me what you want me to do and what the roll was)) viewtopic.php?f=59&t=298&p=2110#p2110

Feruni approaches Xerxes, before going to rest, "Seems like wolves or something akin have being wandering the whereabouts. Some humanoids bypassed too, but I couldn't figure out any more details". He taps the fighter in the shoulder. "Let's rest with an eye open", he twinkled, and then prepared his bedroll in the ground, nearby the camp fire, for a renewing quick sleep. ((Than, maybe a camp fire token at the map would be nice .))

Wagon travel had some benefits. One could more easily compose and dawdle with an instrument than on horseback. So, Reyn sang and played. Of course he quieted when the wagons stopped to allow Evelyn to pray even though those that truly meditated could hear nothing when they found that space. The other good thing about wagon travel was one could sleep when the company was boring, or the road monotonous, or one' s muse had departed, skipping ahead to the next town and finding a rowdy tavern rather than suffer also. And so Reyn slept. His road into Belfor had been a harried flight with out sleep. A dead run to get ahead of whatever it was that pursued him and his exhaustion ran deeper than expected. Making the campsite was a welcome distraction. He jumped from the wagon, thanking Feruni for such a wonderful ride, and stretched his legs. Settling his gear in place, he helped Feruni gather firewood and then sat cross legged on a large boulder and played while the others busied themselves with idle tasks meant mainly for them to recover a space of their own after traveling in such close proximity with near strangers. The had yet to share battle or any arduous task and so, per Reyn observation, had yet really to become a comfortable unit. "I'll take second watch with the Drow and the good Priestess," he said around an ascending arpeggio split into three note groups of the root and minor third. The notes flowing into the dusk light. Of course, he couldn't see in the dark nor, for that matter, was he trying to imply any gift. His hearing surely was sensitive, but then that wasn't the reason either for placing himself in the later group, although he'd likely claim such if asked by another. Honestly, he could say he had no idea why he had said it, but then that would be untrue. So, he continue to play as if it didn't really matter and pretended to become absorbed in the song, forestalling any direct inquiry. A moment with Evelyn was the obvious choice. Not in any sense an attempt to woo the woman, he thought, misplacing a quarter note shy of the tempo for the humor it suddenly brought him. But, even if conversation by normal means while on watch was unavailable, then time itself. As a bard, Reyn knew the difference between a busy piece with too many notes and one that was right. Sometimes, the quiet, the rests between phrases could mean just as much to the continuity and meaning of the music. It created anticipation in the listeners for whatever would come next and made it all the more memorable.

Evelyn thanks Xerxes once again and makes her way to the large canvas sack containing the tent. She looks around but everyone seems to be busy so decides to try and put up the tent herself. (she's never put up one before - so for fun survival check - guess dc10? as it should be easy?) survival check [dice:301g3c6n]20+3[/dice:301g3c6n] [color=#FF8000:301g3c6n] ((DM: tent is up))[/color:301g3c6n]

The tent is built with little stress ' simpler than it looked' she muses, she looks at it with her hands on her hips looking pleased with herself. She looks around and sees if anyone else would like some help with the camp.

Tathza would not have to take watch for some time so he prepares his spells and sits to take Reverie. He focuses his mind and feels his body relax as the days trails melt away. The meditation refreshes his mind as well. Aknma will keep watch to alert him of any danger. These humans ask for my aid yet do not treat me as a ally. They are concerned only with their own ends and care little for the mission. "I will complete this task with or with out them" with these final thoughts he falls deeper into his Reverie.

Zinnaella sits back as the camp is set up and discussion turns to the watches for the evening. [i:nizv3q0v]At least a number of people volunteered, we didn't have to force anyone to take a watch,[/i:nizv3q0v] she muses. She decides to just follow everyone's lead and see how the first night works out.

[b:68dfj1ds]As you get ready for the nights rest and discuss the watch arrangements suddenly 4 humans dressed in working clothes with 3 rather large dogs each come out of the woods, one of the humans say "Give us your gold, valuables and weapons now, or we set the dogs on you."[/b:68dfj1ds] ((your go....))

((Well, that didn't take long to get to combat. )) Zinnaella had been sitting down between the two carts, so she figured she was likely hidden from view from most of the intruders. Smiling to herself, she looks under the carts, determining the placement of these bandits. [i:1v04kzre]Not bad, they came from all directions. Let's see how they handle the shadows.[/i:1v04kzre] Zinnaella quietly pulls out her rapier and twists into a kneeling position, waiting to see just how her companions react and for a moment to strike out. ((Forgot the hide roll))[dice:1v04kzre]1d20+8[/dice:1v04kzre]

[color=#FF8000:fz5eup97]((I've put numbers on the map, if any of you attack, please give the number of the foe you are attacking))[/color:fz5eup97]

Val makes a small step in the direction of the aggressors and takes a panicked voice: "Wha... ? Please don't hurst us..." At the same time, he starts to pray in Elven "[i:27wjf4n0]Saverana, donne nous du courage[/i:27wjf4n0]" At this very moment, Val and each ally standing within a 50 feet burst of him feel bolder and ready to take the challenge. ((Val casts Bless. Each one of us, except Zinnaella, has a +1 morale bonus on attack rolls and saving throws against fear effects fo 1 min. Sorry Zane, but your character was too far away, it was impossible to get the whole group))

Evelyn was just about to suggest Mitra to rest in the tent when she is alerted to the sound of the newcomers. She looks up and sees the savage looking dogs and rough men handling them. She feels Val's spell wash over her and feels better and more confident. The men are not phased by her companions appearance or numbers, so suspects that a fight will likely ensue. She considers her options, and decides if there is a way to 'scare' these men and avoid the fight, then it is worth the use of her spell. Evelyn closes her mind to the scene around her and focuses on the spell from her deity. She softly sings the divine words as a soft sorrowful chant and feels the negative energy within her, surge forth and wrap around her like unseen tendrils. But with it, comes an anger, a burning hatred, that she forces herself to control and stay calm. The unseen whirlwind of energy, expands at the speed of light, searching, seeking through the forest for its kind. It does not have to go far, she senses it in her mind, its life force stained with arcane necromantic magic. It walks through the forest, rotten vegetation, stuck to one leg as it makes its way through the dark forest, ever alert, ever sensing for the proximity of life. It senses her as well and cold fingers of death grasp tighter around its sword. It glances sharply around the forest but cannot discern her location as the words of the chant begin to grow louder around it. At first it resists but the pull is too strong and the unseen tendrils of negative energy, wrap around it, thrusting it through the earth and it is gone. [sorry forgot to add game info - evelyn casts summon undead 1 ]

Evelyn starts muttering and Mitra knows what is going to happen next. She accesses her defencive powers and summons her armor choice, she then grips a stone and prepares for the dogs. Usually dogs were nice but these ones didn't look nice at all. ((Sorry for the quick post borrowing a friends laptop while I'm away. Oh the Power is Inertial Armor, +4 AV, No visible effect, for those that are not distracted by the four men and twelve dogs and are within ten feet of Mitra they can make a listen check DC15 to hear a chime sound but no direct for the noise, it just sounds in your head.))

((Listen check)) [dice:28fooa13]20+2[/dice:28fooa13] Val hears a chime in his head. [i:28fooa13]What's going on ?[/i:28fooa13]

Reyn smiles at each man, turning in a circle and beginning to laugh. "An unwise decision my friends." Loudly he begins the song with words while setting his rapier free from his belt. An impromptu poem meant to fill one with dread and make the men reconsider, to decide there are easier targets to risk their dogs and prey upon. "Foolish men tread upon other's dreaming. Become mired in their fate. And in the wood die screaming. Feeding its frenzy." [dice:t0ny7hd1]20+8[/dice:t0ny7hd1] Bluff. ((These men will loose their dogs and life. It would be better to attempt another target.)) And then he continues. His voice shallow like waves caressing a shoreline at low tide. Momentum building in the deep blue as he sings a song of a storm, a battle, and triumph. (Reyn sings inspire courage: +1 to attack and damage rolls for all who can hear it) ((Lingering song Feat - sorry I'm at a sand soccer weekend with a resource and can't remember how much it increases the effect time))

"I guess I was right after all, uh, Xerxes", he gives a quick glance at the fighter, while drawing his greatsword and stepping forward to the closest band of dogs. "Except they're not wooollveeess", he screams, while swinging the sword at an unlucky one. ((Attack roll on dog 2 with greatsword.)) [dice:hy15qzlr]1d20+4[/dice:hy15qzlr] ((Damage roll, in case I hit.)) [dice:hy15qzlr]2d6+4[/dice:hy15qzlr] ((Feruni draws the weapon as part of a move action, which makes the drawing a free one.)) EDIT: ((Add +2 on the attack roll, making it a 17, and +1 on the damage roll, making it a 9. Bonuses from Val and Reyn.))

[i:qys6cwc9]surrounded... at least combat on the sea was upfront, you often had hours to prepare before you could even make out the details on the other ship...[/i:qys6cwc9] Xerxes backs up towards Val, Eve, and Mitra, not able to charge a group without leaving them exposed to the enemy on two other sides, he drops the bullseye lantern onto the ground where he was standing ((free action)) and draws his longsword ((free action as he moves)) as he moves to stand by Val and prepares for the inevitable attack. ((prepared action, attack any enemy that comes within 5 ft)) ((attack roll in case that happens (includes bonuses from Val and Reyn))) [dice:qys6cwc9]1d20+7[/dice:qys6cwc9] and the damage roll [dice:qys6cwc9]1d8+4[/dice:qys6cwc9]

Tathza never seemed to get a break. He had just finished cleaning himself now he was going to get blood and dirt on him. Maybe he could kill them before they got to close to dirty his robe. The dogs looked filthy. Tathza cast Lesser Orb of Acid on one of the Humans. (Human 4) [dice:1tbpws7w]1d8[/dice:1tbpws7w] [color=#FF8000:1tbpws7w]((DM: requires a range touch attack, so rolled as follows...))[/color:1tbpws7w] [dice:1tbpws7w]1d20+2[/dice:1tbpws7w]

((Everyone's posted, i'm resolving combat for this round, please no posting or map changes until round 2))

[b:t8qaz7wn]Xerxes and Feruni kill a dog each, Tathza kills a man. One of the men see's his fellow die and thinks the singer may have a point, he signals to his dogs and flees into the forest with them. PLAYER STATUS[/b:t8qaz7wn] Effects:Bless,Inspire courage, +4AC (Mitra) [code:t8qaz7wn] Xerxes ac:19 af:18 at:14 hp:11 dm:02 HIT for 2 Feruni Inner ac:17 af:15 at:12 hp:13 dm:03 HIT for 3 Val'anthis ac:17 af:14 at:13 hp:08 dm:02 HIT for 2 Zinnaella ac:16 af:12 at:14 D hp:07 dm:00 Evelyn Good ac:14 af:14 at:10 hp:09 dm:03 HIT for 3 Reyn Elini ac:14 af:13 at:11 hp:05 dm:03 HIT for 3 Mitra ac:12 af:10 at:12 hp:10 dm:00 Tathza Sabran ac:12 af:10 at:12 hp:05 dm:00 Mehlos, Synad ? ac:12 af:10 at:12 hp:10 dm:00 [/code:t8qaz7wn] ac=armor class, af=armor class(flat foot), at=armor class(touch), D=+1 AC when against 1 apponent for dodge. hp=max hit points, dm=damage taken, if dm same as hp then you fall over. notes: Feruni has -2 armor classes and +2 hp when raging. ((combat resolved, now round 2, your go...))

((Crosses indicate dead foe))

Zinnaella notices all the dogs converging on the center of camp, so she moves out of the shadows and up behind one of the dogs. She then strikes out with her rapier, aiming for it's vital unprotected midsection. ((Attacking Dog #13, flanking - so add sneak attack damage (third roll) below.))[dice:270jzxpl]1d20+4,1d6+2,1d6[/dice:270jzxpl] ((If it does not die - use dodge bonus on it. If it does die - dog #15 will be my dodge bonus))

Surrounded by dogs Xerxes turns and slashes at a dog "back to the mud!" longsword attack on dog 11 [dice:5ifu779d]1d20+7[/dice:5ifu779d] if I hit, damage is: [dice:5ifu779d]1d8+4[/dice:5ifu779d] ((if I kill it I 5ft step into the square it was occupying))

Tathza saw his target fall and noticed a enemy group flee. He hated leaving enemies behind but their were many others to deal with. The large human managed to kill one of the beast but had two others to deal with. He would assist him and move on. Tathza cast Acid Splash on Dog 1 [dice:hxsf9dcc]1d20+2+1[/dice:hxsf9dcc] [dice:hxsf9dcc]1d3+1[/dice:hxsf9dcc] He then moves to give greater assistance.

Pain lances through her as the dog savagely attacks her leg. concentration check (DC13) [dice:264szhyi]20+2[/dice:264szhyi] (woohoo natural 20!) but more severe pain she has endured in her life and it does not distract her from her spell. Thrust through the ground, without an explosion of earth, a skeletal humanoid appears nearby, rotten vegattion falling from one of its boney legs, pinpoints of red light smouldering in its empty eye sockets. "PAY IT NO HEED, IT FIGHTS FOR US!" she shouts in a commanding voice. "Attack the man there standing by that tree!" She commands it, pointing her finger to the rough human (12) standing near the trees The skeletal warrior already close to the human when it had emerged from the ground, turns to face the human and lunges at the man, swinging it's scimitar in a wicked arc. Attack roll (18-20 potential crit) [dice:264szhyi]20+1[/dice:264szhyi] damage roll (if hits) [dice:264szhyi]6+1[/dice:264szhyi] [info for skeleton - human warrior MM1 p226 A/C15 hit points 6 - lasts for 1 round - so this is its first and last attack - but doesnt disappear till my next go - so man may think it a real threat for next attack]

Val watches as Zinnaela attacks a dog and decides to help her. Taking his longsword he slashes at one dog near him ((Attacks & flanks 13 if it survived Zinn's atk, else attacks 11 and reduce the attack roll by 2. As Val hasn't used his bow, his AC is improved by 1, making it 18)) [dice:8gh7fha1]20+5[/dice:8gh7fha1] [dice:8gh7fha1]8+2[/dice:8gh7fha1]

Feruni steps back from the two remaining dogs, knowing that they'll be less effective without the human to taint 'em, put down by an incredible magical effect that came out from the woods, a little before Tathza showed up. He gives the drow a quick smile, then strikes the dog attacking the bard. If he can take some hits for his companion, then he'll be able to keep that inspiring song of his. ((Feruni takes a 5-ft step as per the map and attacks dog #9 with the greatsword.)) [dice:100uvyp8]1d20+6[/dice:100uvyp8] ((Damage roll, in case of a hit.)) [dice:100uvyp8]2d6+5[/dice:100uvyp8] ((EDIT: Since the bless and singing bonuses for attack rolls don't stack, make the hit roll a 17.))

Seeing Evelyn take a bite from a dog, Mitra loses it. She digs into her abilities and find her most basic attack power. She hears something rushing behind her but ignores it, instead focusing on the mutt. She reaches out with her mind and grasps the dogs mind. She then pushes all her will into cracking the mutts brain, scrambling it like an egg. She steps closer to it, not because she has to but because she feels complelled bring the full might of her power down on this poor dog. Damage to Mutt 10 (+1 dam from the Inspire Courage) needs to make a Will Save [dice:kyb6vkuq]10[/dice:kyb6vkuq] Concentration check to hide the power (DC10) [dice:kyb6vkuq]20+9[/dice:kyb6vkuq]

There is one thing that a singer can not do. His mother taught him. No matter what comes before you, no matter the danger, a singer must sing until the enemy is forced to still you. And they will hunt and focus on the song bearer for a singer can affect so many in battle. Reyn thinks little of the choices. Action in combat, as is creating a impromptu musical line over a known set of chords, comes down to instinct and character. He moves toward one of the dog's masters and standing in the back of a wagon weaves a convergent harmony into the song of inspiration. Unlike wizards who study books, or priests that pray, his magic just is. He doesn't call it or will it into being. It's not gifted to him from another. He sings it from within and his spirit does the rest. There are rhythms and motifs of notes that are bewildering to hear. They are a flickering fire on a dark night. Eyes bright. ((Reyn Dazes Human 16)) ((Comment : With the Chain shirt = Reyn's AC should be 15 vice 14 with studded leather.))

[b:1o0e0u8z]PLAYER STATUS Feruni kills anouther dog, Zinnaella kills a dog, evelyn kills a man, Mitra damages slightly a dog, Reyn Dazes a man. Feruni and Evelyn are badly bitten. Effects:Bless,Inspire courage,Mitra AC+4[/b:1o0e0u8z] [code:1o0e0u8z] Xerxes ac:19 af:18 at:14 hp:11 dm:02 Feruni Inner ac:17 af:15 at:12 hp:13 dm:08 Dog bite for 5!! Val'anthis ac:17 af:14 at:13 B hp:08 dm:02 Zinnaella ac:16 af:12 at:14 D hp:07 dm:00 Evelyn Good ac:14 af:14 at:10 hp:09 dm:07 Dog bite for 4!! Reyn Elini ac:15 af:14 at:11 hp:05 dm:03 Mitra ac:12 af:10 at:12 hp:10 dm:00 Tathza Sabran ac:12 af:10 at:12 hp:05 dm:00 Mehlos, Synad ? ac:12 af:10 at:12 hp:10 dm:00 [/code:1o0e0u8z] ac=armor class, af=armor class(flat foot), at=armor class(touch), D=+1 AC when against 1 apponent for dodge. hp=max hit points, dm=damage taken, if dm same as hp then you fall over. notes: Feruni has -2 armor classes and +2 hp when raging. ((Your go guys...))

Tathza see's the dog he hit earlier still standing. Some creatures did not know when to die. He takes out his Hand Crossbow and shoots the damned thing. Tathza shoots Dog 1 [dice:opgth0ek]1d20+2+1-4[/dice:opgth0ek] [dice:opgth0ek]1d4+1[/dice:opgth0ek]

As the fight goes on, Val notices that Evelyn got biten from a dog. [i:1alokguc]We will need to end this quickly so that I can heal her.[/i:1alokguc] He slashes once more with his sword at the nasty dog near him. ((Attack dog 11 with longsword)) [dice:1alokguc]20+3[/dice:1alokguc] [dice:1alokguc]8+3[/dice:1alokguc] ((Edit: thought I rolled a possible crit, but no))

Evelyn screams in pain as the dog savagely bites her again. With a mixture of determination and desperation she unhooks her mace and swings it wildly, hoping it will connect with the dog's head or back. att [dice:ppouubnx]20[/dice:ppouubnx] if hit mace dmg [dice:ppouubnx]8[/dice:ppouubnx] the swing catches her off balance and she staggers backward (5') to avoid losing her footing, feeling the strength from her leg draining away. [5' step back after attack] [edit dont think i can take a 5' step and draw weapon as a move action? so ignore above movement - so moving eve back in orig postion]

[quote="Xamvim":1mzugr3p][edit dont think i can take a 5' step and draw weapon as a move action?][/quote:1mzugr3p] (( Actually, via SRD: "You can move 5 feet in any round when you don’t perform any other kind of movement." So, a move action (drawing a weapon) is not movement, so you should be fine to draw a weapon, attack, and step back. And if you do, it will work well with Zinn's move.)) Zinnaella hears Evelyn cry in pain once again and notices her wild swing at one of the dogs before stumbling back. [i:1mzugr3p]Now[/i:1mzugr3p] she thinks, spurring herself forward. She moves forward and slides in where Evelyn had stood a second before, placing herself between the dog and Evelyn. "Stay back Evelyn," she says. Zinnaella angles her rapier before her, keeping her left foot behind her and her body turned to face the dog, watching it carefully. Zinnaella strikes out carefully, more trying to keep it at bay more than actually deal damage. (( Defensive fighting, +2 dodge bonus to AC, and use Dodge feat +1 on dog #10 - total AC against #10 this round: 19. Rolls are attack and damage; and a second set for an AoO if the dogs move past her threatened areas. ))[dice:1mzugr3p]1d20+2-4,1d6+2,1d20+2-4,1d6+2[/dice:1mzugr3p]

"Thank you Zinn!" says Evelyn, as her leg begins to throb from the pain. [3 words/free action]

The rough human crumples at the feet of the skeleton, it looks at the slain man with no emotion. it feels the pull of the spell weaken. It turns to face the group out of its own accord, but before it has time to advance on another living soul, it is thrust through the ground and is gone.

Xerxes is focused on the dogs within the chaos of the battle, he renews his attack on the dogs harrassing his companions while keeping a dog to his side at bay with his shield. ((if dog 11 is still up after Val's attack then I attack dog 11, otherwise I 5ft step into the square that 11 was in and attack #10)). attack with longsword [dice:1ht3jqsk]1d20+7[/dice:1ht3jqsk] Don't know if you play with this rule, but reflex save to see if I hurt myself because I rolled a 1 [dice:1ht3jqsk]1d20+1[/dice:1ht3jqsk] if so, then I take 1 damage

"Damn you, dog", Feruni screams as his leg bleeds badly. He channels his anger, take a firm grasp at the sword, focusing his strength while letting the blood flow more frely through his veins, and then his eyes turn inferno. ((He rages.)) He sees one of the dogs going down pierced by a bolt. [i:cqdj47k5]The drow. Nice[/i:cqdj47k5], he can barely put those words in order while swinging the sword at the remaining dog. "You're not making me down". ((Attack roll on dog #3, greatsword, raging.)) [dice:cqdj47k5]1d20+7[/dice:cqdj47k5] ((Damage roll, in case of a hit.)) [dice:cqdj47k5]2d6+8[/dice:cqdj47k5] ((Take a 5-ft step to position shown on map. The above lines about Tathza and the dog falling are assumptions Feruni is making after he rages. The dog might not really have fallen.))

Reyn gathers the human's eyes to his and lets everything else blur. It is just he and the dog trainer occupying this space. The trees rustle in the wind and he smells the iron of blood, but it drifts by like fall leaves on the surface of a swift moving stream, colors amid an indistinct blue. Some colors eddy and swirl, persisting for a moment trying to drag his attention. Evelyn' scream. Feruni's rage. The growl and snap of dogs. Unconsciously, he pulls at the lyre secured like a bow around his back and settles it in his hands. To a common man, it appears regular. A singer would know the difference. The lyre's masterwork pale cedar top seems to glow when the sunlight catches it, contrasting with the black unmarked ebony fretboard, each which are firmly molded into the mahogany bowl and one piece neck. The only ornament serpent carved black ebony turn keys securing strings to the instruments swirling headstock. His fingers brush the strings and they vibrate. His eyes sparkle. His voice fills the air. And he draws the human in like a moth to flame. ((Reyn dazes the human again))

She stopped concentrating on the dogs mind, took a step backwards and saw it had attacked Evelyn again. People were diving in the way to protect Evelyn, she got angry that she had been so stuck in the mind of the dog that she had lost the oppertunity to protect Evelyn herself, so she turned all that anger, all that rage and again thrust her mind into the dog. This time seeking the most fragile part. She found the dogs happiest memories of being a puppy, playing with a child, she saw a red ball and felt the dog's joy. She then exploded that memory inside the dogs mind, causing a chain reaction that forced the rest of it's brain to try and cope. Mind Thrust - Dog10 needs to take a Will Save DC15 - +1 Damage from Bard's Spell [dice:2vwz32a1]10[/dice:2vwz32a1] Concentration DC10 [dice:2vwz32a1]20+9[/dice:2vwz32a1]

[b:2z508nw7]PLAYER STATUS Feruni kills anouther dog, Val'anthis kills a dog, Mitra kills a dog, Reyn Dazes the man, Tathza wounds a dog. Xerxes is badly bitten. Effects:Bless,Inspire courage,Mitra AC+4 Notes:Zinnaella fought denfensively, Feruni raging[/b:2z508nw7] [code:2z508nw7] Xerxes ac:19 af:18 at:14 hp:11 dm:06 Dog bite for 4!! Feruni Inner ac:17 af:15 at:12 hp:13 dm:08 Val'anthis ac:17 af:14 at:13 B hp:08 dm:02 Zinnaella ac:16 af:12 at:14 D hp:07 dm:00 Evelyn Good ac:14 af:14 at:10 hp:09 dm:07 Reyn Elini ac:15 af:14 at:11 hp:05 dm:03 Mitra ac:12 af:10 at:12 hp:10 dm:00 Tathza Sabran ac:12 af:10 at:12 hp:05 dm:00 [/code:2z508nw7] ac=armor class, af=armor class(flat foot), at=armor class(touch), D=+1 AC when against 1 apponent for dodge. hp=max hit points, dm=damage taken, if dm same as hp then you fall over. notes: Feruni has -2 armor classes and +2 hp when raging. ((Your go guys....))

Taking a small step, Val slashes one more dog, hoping it will be the last. If he doesn't finish it, at least he made room for others and openend the possibility to flank that animal. ((Takes a 5ft step, attacks dog 15 with longsword, +1 AC from buckler)) [dice:2t7t6y13]20+3[/dice:2t7t6y13] [dice:2t7t6y13]8+3[/dice:2t7t6y13]

Tathza saw the stubborn dog take the bolt and keep moving. "Why wont you just die" Tathza cast another lesser spell "yrev arcaniss" A spark dances on his finger tips and flares white hot then shoots off toward the dog. Tathza cast Electric Jolt on Dog 1 [dice:tl4bj0vg]1d20+2+1[/dice:tl4bj0vg] [dice:tl4bj0vg]1d3+1[/dice:tl4bj0vg]

[SRD says i can cast a touch spell on a friendly in combat automatically if this is incorrect i wont follow through with action below - choosing to wait till dog 15 is dead] Evelyn sees Xerxes take a wicked bite to the leg from the savage dog, The wound looks bad and with still at least one human left to fight and possibly more on their way, warned by the one that ran away, the need of an able fighter is as important as ever, so she runs to Xerxes's aid. Seeing him sway from side to side in an attempt to avoid the dog's attacks, she times her opportunity and casts her spell, feeling the positive energy flow through her, she feels a joy, as she chants the words, "Maly hojit" (cure light wounds) [dice:2b40nb4r]8+2[/dice:2b40nb4r] [xerxes can of course avoid Evelyn's spell if he wishes - touch attack is [dice:2b40nb4r]20[/dice:2b40nb4r] ]

Xerxes sees Evelyn coming towards him from the corner of his eye, his concentration being on the snapping jaws infront of him, thinking she is going to lean on him or something he suddenly feels invigorated as the bleeding suddenly stops from the two bites he received. Redoubling his efforts he puts the dog between him and Val and comes down on it with a viscious strike while it's distracted ((5ft step as shown on map)) attack including flanking [dice:36i1z74r]1d20+9[/dice:36i1z74r] damage if it hits [dice:36i1z74r]1d8+4[/dice:36i1z74r]

Listen. Quiet. Stand. Breathe. Again. Listen. In the melody, a dissonant line mingles, a diminished fifth symmetrically dividing the root octave. Death's interval woven in subtle; a black thread meant to unravel the whole, hidden in a falling tritone paradox. Silence. Comes. ((Reyn dazes the human.))

Zinnaella notes Xerxes stepping up and landing a solid blow on one wolf after Mitra seemed to just give another wolf a look, causing it to fall over. [i:2tu7ltow]This just gets even more interesting,[/i:2tu7ltow] she thinks as she moves up to Feruni's side. "Need a hand?" she asks him as she moves from behind him, spinning as she does so the dog doesn't see any opportunity to strike her as she moves past. She ends her spin after a few feet and ends it with a thrust of her rapier, aimed directly at the dog after having put herself around the side of the animal a little. ((Rolling Tumble (DC 15) to avoid AoO, then attack and damage))[dice:2tu7ltow]1d20+10,1d20+2,1d6+2[/dice:2tu7ltow] ((Rolling crit check, if hits - x2 on damage))[dice:2tu7ltow]1d20+2[/dice:2tu7ltow]

[i:251yrbbr]One more[/i:251yrbbr], Feruni quick-thinks it. He prepares for another blow, at the die-hard dog. An electric discharge hits the dog, while the skilled lady quickly passes-by, pretty much like the bolt, spinning like a dancer, delivering a precise blow at the dog, which howls in pain. Presuming it's dead, the barbarian realizes that it'll be useless to waste a blow there. "One more", he grumbles, while turning around to check on more enemies. He has a limited view of a human around 60 feet away, and with a single move of the muscles, he rushes closer, moving through his companions, cutting the wind with his massive body. "You won't escape. Surrender now!", he states at the remaining human, his gaze telling the mob everything he'd need to know about the other option. ((It's not an Intimidate check, since it's a standard action to demoralize in combat, and I made a *retreat* to avoid AOO - double moved.))

The barbarian rushes by but she barely notices. The noises of the combat died down around her and she felt her heart thuding in her ears. She holds out her arm and tears start to stream down her face. She rushes forward and falls to the floor pulling the dead dog towards her. Cradling the dead animal close to her breast she whispers to it "It's okay Duke, the pain is gone. You can be with the boy, and chase the ball." She rocks side to side with the dog, as it's tongue laps lazily out the side of it's mouth and blood begins to pool out of it's eyes, nose and ears.

Players Status [code:2qyv2e57] Xerxes ac:19 af:18 at:14 hp:11 dm:06 Feruni Inner ac:17 af:15 at:12 hp:13 dm:08 Val'anthis ac:17 af:14 at:13 B hp:08 dm:02 Zinnaella ac:16 af:12 at:14 D hp:07 dm:00 Evelyn Good ac:14 af:14 at:10 hp:09 dm:07 Reyn Elini ac:15 af:14 at:11 hp:05 dm:03 Mitra ac:12 af:10 at:12 hp:10 dm:00 Tathza Sabran ac:12 af:10 at:12 hp:05 dm:00 [/code:2qyv2e57] [b:2qyv2e57]Zinnaella kills a dog and xerxes slays the last dog. At Feruni’s demand the dazed human puts his hands up and surrenders to the group. Shortly after another man steps out of the forest, he doesn’t look like the other hostile men, instead he looks like a tribesman, strong with a look of wisdom in his eyes. He puts his hands up. “I mean you no harm I saw you were attacked by men with many dogs and maybe I am able to help you”. He stands calm with his hands up awaiting your response.[/b:2qyv2e57]

[minor note Xerxes is on Dmg 3 now - was healed by spell last round] Evelyn puts pressure on her injured leg to stop the numbing sensation taking hold. The combat has all been a blur, quick and deadly the group have defeated the rough humans. Immediately infront of her she sees Mitra craddling the dead dog, sobbing. She kneels down next to her, wincing at the pain in her leg and says softly, "Mitra dear its ok, he's gone to a better place now I assure you. He is happy now." She puts her arm around Mitra to comfort her. While she attends to Mitra she scans the scene and gauges their injuries. She sees Feruni tackle the remaining human and smiles 'there is little that would stop him from his course." she notes a pool of blood where he had been moments before and makes a mental note to check him later. As Val is nearby she calls softly over to him, "Val we need to address who is injured. I only have one major heal spell and some very minor ones left. We will need to work together to ensure we are not vulnerable to another attack." Only then does she note the newcomer and hear his words. She looks at him with suspicion. As both Reyn and Tathza seem the closest to the newcomer, she waits to see if they will react to him first.

Reyn jumps down from the wagon and walks to Feruni and the caught man. He keeps the newcomer in sight, but is not all that concerned over the man at the edge of the wood. Blood still pumps in all their limbs and the energy is throbbing. The newcomer would be foolish to be anything but genuine and he still had enough left to make the man start smiling and counting flowers in the field between them. At Feruni's side, Reyn speaks quickly. "Tie him up to the wheel of the wagon. We all need to tend to our wounds and discuss his fate. I'll watch over him while you get settled friend." Questioning a man just after battle when blood still runs is rarely a good idea. Reyn figures he's likely to get a red line beneath his chin unless the group takes care of their wounds first. And he can still sing the man into a stupor if he attempts to run. Their attackers need to be searched for gear and information. "Running would be wrong for your health," Reyn finishes with a stare at their captive. It is no bluff.

Tathza see's the end of the battle and the lone human taken. He had used up some of his spells in the battle. He made note of those that had been useful as well as those that had been hurt. They had shown themselves as novices in battle....at least some had, some did very well or at least enough to be expected. His role was over, the new comer was no enemy as he could tell him to be a human of nature by his dress. He had seen the actions of the two females and he was...... disappointed. One had shown herself to be unwise in battle and the other used some sort of power but as he thought was unstable and therefore useless in his eyes. He was glad for one thing, he had managed to keep himself out of the fighting and so had no wounds or flith on his person. Tathza had a bitter thought "How will this mission be completed by a divided group of petty novice" He moved to watch the captured human and what would happen now.

She carries on weeping and stroking the dog. "I didn't want to hurt him, but I couldn't tell him to stop attacking you. Why did they do this? He was such a happy dog before he just wanted to be a good boy. He just wanted to do as master asked him to." She howls the tears running freely down her cheeks her eyes going red with the salty water. "Chase the ball now. You were a good boy."

Reyn swirls in a half circle hearing Mitra's howl. Unconsciously he strums down on the strings of his lyre and arpeggiates the notes on his hands return to the top strings. Words of a song nearly escape his pressed lips as he seeks the man at the forest's edge. A deep inhale cut short when he finds the girl huddled over a newly dead animal in no danger. Turning back to the caught man, Reyn castes a lopsided smile at him. "A singer never knows when a melody is needed to hold one still for their death, aye savage."

Seeing that Feruni and Reyn have the last one under control, Xerxes finally takes a deep breath and collects his nerves, [i:ug8qac8d]Alive, still alive![/i:ug8qac8d] he thinks to himself and grins as he hurries over to the cart with his stuff, pulling out one of many 50ft lengths of rope from inside, leaving it beside the cart's wheel, "I've pulled out some rope for you mate" he calls over to Feruni. Xerxes quickly heads over to where the two men had fallen and checks to see if they're still breathing, putting his hand and face up to their mouths and feeling their chests for any sign of movement. ((if I find any still alive I carry them to the cart)) Quickly checking over them he pulls off any useful equipment and drops it in the middle of camp near the fire, noticing Mitra's distress, but not knowing what to say to comfort her. "does anyone think we should be concerned about animals now? I'm concerned about there being fresh blood everywhere and the bodies of these dogs, it's going to attract predators no? anyone have any ideas? maybe we should eat them..." as if on cue a man suddenly appears at the edge of camp and begins to speak...

"I shall perform a crossing," says Evelyn softly to Xerxes, gestering to the dead bodies strewn around. "I suggest we bury the bodies if we do not wish to attract further animals this night." [apologies - misread ppls posts earlier - so have edited the original thought]

She stops crying as if on queue. Sniffing she says "Thanks Eve'y." She notices the wet slick of blood coming from Evelyn's leg. She looks concerned. "Eve'y your losing blood. You should heal that, before it goes bad." The others seem more concerned with the captive and the newcomer to notice.

Leaning over Mitra, Val asks Eve "is she alright ?" At this moment he notices Eve's wounds and remembers she had been biten by one dog. "Please stay still for a minute, this will help to mend your wounds." He recites a short verse in elven: "[i:3g0crblz]Ouvre ton esprit, ferme tes plaies...[/i:3g0crblz] and Evelyn starts to feel better as each second passes. "You are right, we should divide our healing abilities. Even if my restoration power seems to need a minute, I'm pretty sure I can bring Feruni our friend the bard back as new" he smiles. "And my weaker spells should be enough for myself. You should only heal Xerxes and take care of Mitra, for I can't heal her with my magic. I believe, that is something only you can achieve." he says with a voice full of sorrow. Val then turns to Feruni. Here my friend, this should help you. Once again he closes his eyes and whispers: [i:3g0crblz]Ouvre ton esprit, ferme tes plaies...[/i:3g0crblz] "I belive you could also need some assistance" he tells to the bard as he approches him. You should feel better after this, believe me." He then simply poses his palm on Reyn's body and concentrates. After having finished he lays back on the cart exhausted, concentrating on last time to finally heal his own injuries; not noticing the newcomer at first... ((Casts Lesser Vigor on Evelyn & Feruni: each heal 1 hitpoint each 6 seconds until fully healed (or until 11 hp are healed) Casts cure minor wounds three times on Reyn, giving him 3hp back, and twice on himself healing 2 hp))

"My thanks," Reyn responds as Val heals him. He shudders a little unconsciously as if suddenly chilled. "No worries," he says looking at Val, "feeling my skin knit together does it every time." Reyn keeps a little distance from Feruni and the captive, ready to still the man in a moment.

AS Val approaches her leg, Evelyn begins to make an objection, but before she can say a word, he leans down and casts his spell on her leg. She finds herself blushing at his touch and looks quickly away from both Mitra and Val confused by her emotion. His spell complete, she thanks him with a smile and says softly, "Thank you Val, I can feel the wound closing already." "Very well I shall tend to Xerxes." she adds, casting a glance at the newcomer. He does not appear threatening so she acknowledges the newcomer with a nod. Whether he has seen or not, she is not sure, for she is not close to him and thinks his gaze is on Tathza. As she passes Zinnaella she stops momentarily and says, "Thank you Zinn, I wont forget what you did for me earlier." and continues on to Xerxes Evelyn moves to Xerxes and says, "You fought well, let me heal your wounds." The wound does not seem deep, partially healed from her earlier spell, so she casts three small orisons in succession and to her satisfaction his wound closes. [casts cure minor wounds x3 = 3 hp - converted spontaneously 1 light spell]

Before he could slash his flesh, the remaining man raised hands and dropped any weapons held. [i:3gvakcmj]Surrendered[/i:3gvakcmj], he thought, and moved closer to the man. Feruni catched his breath again, his muscles beginning to relax and his eyes seeing everything again, not just the enemy. Suddenly, he realized he's badly injured from the dogs. He gave a quick glance at the wounds, without showing any weakness, and raised his head again to the hostile. He held his arms in his back, just in time when the menestrel arrives and suggests they rest before they interrogate. "Very well, songman. You do the talking later on, as it seems you are very skilled at it", he smiled at the bard, "I feel sorry for this hostile". The barbarian moved the man until they get between the carts, from where he nodded at Xerxes after taking the rope he readied. [i:3gvakcmj]He's a good fighter, with precise moves[/i:3gvakcmj], he wondered. Meanwhile, the elf came closer and gave Feruni some soft words, which were more comforting than he would expect. He couldn't say anything else but a thank you, he just didn't have the right words. He hoped his smile could say more to his companion. He tied the man as strong as he could, using a horse knot he's so used to. "It might looks messy, but that's just because I feel pitty for this man and doesn't want to break any bones .. yet", he says to Tathza, with a smile. "Hum, that magic of yours is pretty strong, dark skin. It'll be nice to have you around". ((Use Rope check.)) [dice:3gvakcmj]1d20+2[/dice:3gvakcmj] Then, a voice came from the forest, and he stood up as fast as he could. Seeing that wildly dressed man at first gave Feruni the impulse to take on his sword, what he indeed did. But then, he said he could help, so, the barbarian was willing to hear more. So he shouted at the newcomer, from between the carts, "say your words, stranger, and make then wise ones".

Tathza hears the barbarians words and let them past. He was still standing after the many wounds and still seem to have energy to spare. Tathza did not regret giving him aid in the battle. Feruni would prove a useful shield in the days to come indeed and he had a good understanding of when to keep out of his way. Tathza also had to admit the bard had not been completly useless. The warrior as expected did well and took much damage without waviering. The rogue too did as expected of her and proved her skill without taking a single hit. The surface elf had survived well enough and was tending to the wounded. He did not fight like a claric yet had divine power, he would keep a eye on that. Tathza kept his detailed watch. He said nothing and showed no signs of his thoughts as he let the actions take place. He wanted to rest and restore himself to full power but would not allow himself to, until the area was deemed safe and the two humans taken care of.

Zinnaella relaxes as the last dog goes down, although she does take a moment to look at her rapier, [i:3glbnamm]Wow, that was a better strike than I thought I would do. Maybe I don't have to just sneak up from behind all the time.[/i:3glbnamm] It was not the way she was taught to strike out, she was caught up in the battle and actually expected to serve as a distraction and allow others to finish things off. As she mused about the battle tactics used, a stranger appeared at the edge of the woods, claiming peace. She kept an eye on him, but no one else rushed over to him so she let it be for the time. She kept an eye on the new wild man as she wiped the dog blood from her weapon, using the clothing of one of the dead human attackers. She then slid it back into place and started searching the bodies of the two dead men, aiding Xerxes in the process. ((Search check))[dice:3glbnamm]1d20+6[/dice:3glbnamm] [color=#FF8000:3glbnamm]((DM: You find 3 copper pieces on one man and what looks like a list of birthdays on anouther man))[/color:3glbnamm] During this time, Evelyn passes her by and gives her thanks to Zinnaella's actions. Zinnaella gives her a warm smile and a nod, focusing on the task at hand. After finishing the search, she moves back between the wagons, leaning on one as she watches the wild man and those that go to talk with him.

Umslopogaas turns and faces feruni. with his arms wide with staff in one hand and says " you have no need for that sword with me, i bring no violence. I was traverling through the woods when i herd the noise of your battle, the wind whisperd that a brave party where being attacked by baseless men and there dog slaves, so i rushed here to see what aid i could give" " if there is any more injured among you , i have some skills in the healing arts" Umslopogaas looks round the clearing and takes in the carnage wrought and waits for a reply

Mitra shoots Val a look and even through there is anger in her eyes, she mouths the words thank you to the elf. Then dismisses him from her mind. She lays the dog down on the floor, and pats its head. She sniffs one more time then turns and then looks to where Evelyn was. She looks round and sees her off healing others and talking to them. She sighs and makes her way over to the tent. The voices running through her head speak soft whispers in her mind, as she enters the tent and starts rummaging around there bags for some food.

Feruni listened to the woodsman speech. He claimed peace and even offered healing, too many an offer for complete strangers. He gave a quick glance to Reyn, just to let him know he'd like some aid in this talking. The barbarian was willing to have some aid after such a wild fight, but knew that the enemies were many, and the allies would grow fewer with each battle. So, he checked the ties he made once again and then approached the woodsman, with careful. "Very well, how about we start with a name, staff man?", he asked, his senses scanning the surroundings for more men, dogs and the like. ((Spot check.)) [dice:91kq35ik]1d20+1[/dice:91kq35ik] ((Listen check.)) [dice:91kq35ik]1d20+5[/dice:91kq35ik] [color=#FF8000:91kq35ik]((DM: you don't see or hear any more dogs or men or anything out of the ordinary))[/color:91kq35ik] "And then, how about some quick information about bandit activities, and maybe a safer spot to rest around here"?, the barbarian asked again, with a cold gaze, one of intentional disbelief in the answer. ((Sense Motive check on the information asked.)) [dice:91kq35ik]1d20+1[/dice:91kq35ik] [color=#FF8000:91kq35ik]((DM: you don't sense any motive other than what would appear to be))[/color:91kq35ik]

Finishing her healing spell on Xerxes, Evelyn looks around at the group activity. She sees Mitra wander off to the tent and hears the rummaging sounds of their backpacks and hopes she is ok. She didn't mean to blush when Val touched her, it was an involuntary action but she hoped it had not been spotted. Val is resting on the cart and looks exhausted, Zinnaella has a huge grin on her face as she helps xerxes search the bodies. She liked Zinn and xerxes they both seemed like very optimistic and outgoing people,taking each hurdle in their stride. Zinnaella friendly and lively while Xerxes the ever prepared optimistic adventurer, she smiles to herself as she continues to look. She hears the barbarian, Feruni, say his rough words to the newcomer and she is pleased someone is dealing with him. She wonders why the drow hadnt spoken up to the newcomer and notices his attention is turned toward the group, expressionless his eyes scan the others as if in thought. 'He's making a report on us,' she thinks to herself. 'He is the Mayor's man, so makes sense. His expressionless gaze causes her to stare longer at him in thought, 'unlike Zinnaela who is happy to integrate in a relaxed way, he seems uncomfortable or perhaps reserved' she muses, ' perhaps it is the way of his kind, never truly knowing what others think of him, perhaps he is lonely,' she wonders. She knows little of drow except from the children's tales in order to frighten them. but makes a mental note to learn more. She looks at the human bodies that lie on the ground. [Xerxes has already checked them so mentioned he'd move the alive ones - if any are dead this happens:] As the others confront the newcomer, Evelyn make her way to the closest dead, he is newly dead so his spirit may yet to have crossed over. She looks into his lifeless eyes and kneels down before him. [first she checks him that he is definitely dead - dont know if need a check or not but incase I do guess heal check? [dice:27xi709f]20+3[/dice:27xi709f] [color=#FF8000:27xi709f]((DM: seems to be dead)) [/color:27xi709f] Carefully placing his rough hands to the side of his body. With his own blood, she paints a symbol on his forehead and then she opens his palms. She takes out a copper piece from her belt pouch and places it carefully in his right hand, Softly wording a prayer. Once complete she closes his fist and walks away to the next body in full faith her god has taken him to a better place. [does this ritual to all dead]

Reyn keeps watch over the man at roughly 15 feet. For any reason, struggling against his bonds or making a run for it, Reyn will daze the man without hesitation. He remains watchful, waiting for the others to join him and discuss their captive. He can greet the other after loose ends are secure. ((Reyn moves no closer to the man for any reason. Wimpering, pleading, or attempt at parlay will not work. He will daze him for any provocation and has his rapier drawn ready.))

Umslopogaas maitains steady eye contact with feruni ! and with a honest smile bows and says " my name is Umslopogaas which among my tribe means , He who walks with spirits, as to your question of bandits a safer place to rest, i have been traveling thease lands hereabouts for a few months.. and im sure i could guide you to a safer palce to rest. as for bandits i havnt really ran in to any." Umslopogaas pause,s and look thaughtfull for a moment and then contiues " ... yes maybe i should guide you.... i must consult the spirits on this matter...." Umslopogaas reaches for a pouch on his belt and lifts it to the air shaking it producing a dry rattle he chants a eries noise " aieeeennaaiee... aieeeennaaiee... aieeeennaaiee..." then emptys the pouch of its rune carved bone tiles on the floor and squats to study the omens

Feruni kept his feet. Although the woodsman looked harsh, he had soft words, something the barbarian always seemed to distrust. Even so, he was obviously different from the bandits he just fought with the party. A man of the wild. Then he started to thrown in some ritual, and an image immediately crossed the barbarian's mind. He didn't hear the chanting before, but he saw, at a glimpse, a deformed creature in the middle of the struggle. At the time, he didn't have time to see where it came from or anything else. No, he was focused on beating the aggressors down. But now, he can even picture the creature in his mind. He closed his gaze to a cold look. "So, you're the one who brought that creature into the battle before?', he questioned the woodsman. "Hope you're not doing any of that thing again". The barbarian stood ready for another fight, and mentally thanked Val again for that healing spell. He could take on more now, if needed. Still, as Umslopogaas continued the ritual, he could recognize it as a shamanic one. He'd heard about that, and even crossed paths with a healer shaman once, during his travels in the outsides of Belfor to improve his survival skills. ((Assumption here, DM may negate this if wanted.)) "If you're a shaman-kind, you may join us for a while. But first, you gotta meet someone", the barbarian smiled, a mad smile. "I call him dark skin", he said, and moved closer to Tathza.

After thanking Evelyn for her aid Xerxes investigates the new stranger. As the newcomer speaks with Feruni and then performs some kind of ritual Xerxes just looks on at a loss for words. [i:a5b6rogr]Feruni can figure out what the hell that's supposed to mean, lucky guy![/i:a5b6rogr] with a sly grin he moves on to their prisoner, giving Signa (Reyn) a nod, seeing that he's ready to rumble at the slightest sign of trouble. "alright shark biscuit" Xerxes speaks quietly, bringing himself right up to within a foot of the guy's face "the ferryman of the other side has already been put to work on your friends, we wouldn't want to overburden him would we?" Xerxes continues speaking after his rhetorical question, "answer our questions and we'll take mercy on you, if you don't answer or if you lie to us then I'm going to let the others speak to you in private" Xerxes looks around to see if anyone has any objections and then continues while Feruni watches the strange new man. "are you a member of the hidden riders of tomorrow?" ((intimidate, mostly with the tone that I'm saying it in, maybe give me a circumstance bonus since we've already defeated them?)) Intimidate roll [dice:a5b6rogr]1d20[/dice:a5b6rogr] sense motive roll [dice:a5b6rogr]1d20+0[/dice:a5b6rogr] [color=#FF8000:a5b6rogr]((DM: you don't sense any motive))[/color:a5b6rogr] Xerxes waits for an answer and then turns to see what Signa thinks ((I've taken off my shield and laid it on the ground beside the cart, I've sheathed my longsword))

[b:5fx32g25]The captured and tied up man looks thin and tired, his eyes have dark rings around. As you talk to him he looks truly terrified and is visibly shaking. He replies in a very meek nervous voice “Please, I just needed to feed my family I don’t know these Hidden Riders. I have six children and with the food prices going so high and my crops failing with the lack of rainfall we got desperate to get some money to feed our families. Please have some mercy, I have a family to care for and if I die they will be sent to the sweat houses to work as if they were slaves.[/b:5fx32g25]

Tathza stayed silent as he heard the man's words. He cared little for the reason for his actions. He had attempted to rob them and even attempted to kill them. These actions he had taken and so he would pay the price regardless of the reason. One life held no more value then another or at least not when it came to humans. What would have happened if these humans had come across weaker beings. Tathza knew the answer to the question, as would anyone who did not have the foolish thoughts of conflicting idealiogy as so many did. He would wait until the others gave voice as what to do with the human. His mind was made up, kill the man or send him back as a example to any other would be theives. But Tathza had a feeling that some of his group would feel pity and that could lead to complications.

Umslopogaas finisheses studying the bones and returns them to his pouch and rise,es slowly, looks up at feruni " the spirits say that thease people" nodding to the party " have aventfull fate ahead of them...." Umslopogaas trails off the last part of the sentance and pause before contiuing "yes take me to this dark skined one, is he your leader?" i let feruni lead Umslopogaas towards Tathza. " oh and what creature are you talking about before"

Signa remains quiet for a moment. He gathers the captive eyes to his as they have been in the last minutes of the battle. He nods at Xerxes and takes a step forward so the man has to look up at him and he fills the captive line of sight. Calmly, he sheaths his rapier. "I don't believe I need this," he begins, alluding to his ability at any given moment to hold the man still with a whispered word. "You and I have a problem. You see, I'm not the bloodletting type. Surely, I can hold a man still or make him unwilling to fight against his coming death, but I let others do the killing. Our problem," Signa pauses and looks over his shoulder at the Drow Tathza, "is that the others are hurt and angry. A poor combination. Their likely to let your blood from frustration and madness if they think your with-holding what you know. I can't stop them without your truthfullness. And I can tell the difference between the truth and a lie like a devil binding you to contract." "It's your life. And your choice." [dice:2xb9ya5t]20+8[/dice:2xb9ya5t] Diplomacy. Signa wants cooperation and for the captive to understand that if he is less than forthcoming his life is truly in danger. He considers the man's statements so far. Plus any situtional modifier that may be present, i.e. I did hold him, he is in a bad state, their are angry men and woman whom he has offended. [dice:2xb9ya5t]20+8[/dice:2xb9ya5t] Bluff. Signa does not know his companions well enough to understand what they will do with the prisoner, but he is being dramatic, which is sort of a bluff. This role is up to Than if he thinks it is fit to use. Signa does not care if the man dies though and think he will be complicit in allowing the man to visit meanness and death on others if he gives him freedom. Signa asks the following question to ascertain the man's compliance. Others are watching and can make their own decisions regarding his answers. 1. Names, quickly, of all your children. The man should be able to rattle them off like steam from a hot kettle. 2. His name. And name of the men killed and the man that ran. 3. Hideout and directions to it. He assumes there is one unless the man disavows it. 4. Information regarding the area as the man must know of all the ins and outs. 5. Have there been others terrorizing the country as he has been and specifics he knows. The name of the Hiden Riders he may not know, but rumors of such men travel far and wide when people lives are at stake. ((I would like to state that the auto roller and I are at odds and the dislike is reciprocal.))

Feruni gave Umslopogaas a sign with his hand, meaning that he should wait there instead of following. He then walked to Tathza, where he saw Xerxes and Signa questioning the prisoner. "Dark skin", he whispered, "since you're the one who knows the directions, I thought you might want to check if the wildstaff there really knows the whereabouts, and if he could be of any help. I checked the vicinity. He's by himself". He glanced the hostile while he talked about children and farming, and then nodded to Xerxes. "Or you can wait here and watch that man peeing himself", he said out loud again, and then gave the half-drow a tap on the shoulder, as if knowing what would the answer be.

She let out a little woop quietly to herself as she pulled out a sandwich. It was a ham and lettice delight with a light bit of mustard, all wrapped in a crusty bread roll. She walked out the tent clutching the sandwich like the most precious thing in the world. The others had barely moved round but she politely stepped over the bodies of the fallen and walked up to the wagon then hopped on it and walked to the back, she sat down next to the tied up man but above him, with her legs swinging to one side of him she watched the intimidating diplomacy of the the questioners. She took a bite of her sandwich and watched the show.

[b:3rha46f3]The man does seem to be speaking the truth, he is nervous but gives the names of his children and answers your other questions truthfully or at least you think he does..... but he is unable to answer questions 3 and 5 [/b:3rha46f3]

Signa looks at Mitra and smiles. It's a quirky kinda smile, lopsided. Her dangling feet swaying in and out like the arm of a metronome strikes him as oddly poignant. As if, despite the blood and death, the man and his seemingly fall to treachery due to difficult circumstance, and no doubt the dire state this place must be if such a man could be created, there is still easiness to be found. Still laughter to be made. A rhythm stills pulses and a melody is there if you just listen close enough. "Hmmm." "Mitra, is your sand witch good," he asks offhandedly, twirling the words a little. "What do you think little one. Should we trust this man who has led his dogs astray?"

Xerxes patiently listens to the man's story and then calls out to Feruni "Feruni, what do you think about those dogs? do they look like they're in good health? have they been eating well?" Turning to Signa he says "if the dogs are well fed then I'm not so sure about this man's story about starving children" while watching the man's face all the while. ((can I make a heal check or a spot or something to note the man's health and if he looks like he's been going with less food than he should?)) if so, here's my wisdom roll (no ranks in spot/heal etc) [dice:2zid5l12]1d20[/dice:2zid5l12]

[b:3fiuahl9]The man looks under fed as he is rather thin and the dogs although large are also obviously in need for more food, however that would not do them much good now as they are scattered about the place in pieces.[/b:3fiuahl9]

Zinnaella turns back to Xerxes and Reyn, reaching across the wagon to hand out a paper to them. "Found it on one, and only a few coppers on another. Supports the story." She frowns a bit, "Unfortunate situation," she adds before turning back to the wild man, studying him a little and his interactions with Feruni. Although she watches those two, she also keeps an ear on the conversation now behind her - curious as to how they are going to handle the prisoner in the end. ((Paper appears to be a list of birthdays.))

Evelyn completes her short prayer ritual for the dead man and looks up noticing most of the group have collected toward the human captive and the cart. She sees the newcomer patiently waiting, although from her distance she can not make out the expression of his eyes, he appears relaxed and calm and non threatening in his posture. She stands and walks toward the group, The remnants of positive energy still flowing through her, she feels happy and light in heart, she walks with in a spring in her step, resisting the urge to skip over to them. Feruni, Xerxes and Signa are in discussion with the captive man as she approaches, so she addresses them with a nod of her head. "What have we learned from this man?" she inquires in a soft light hearted voice. [if someone updates her with the questioning etc] "If you believe this man speaks the truth and he truly is a result of poor circumstances. We have a dilema on our hands. Taking this man's life or turning him over to the authorities, leaves his family to potentially starve, if they cannot be supported from other family members, they too will find unlawful ways to survive through thievery prostitution or worse." She adds softly, "These men, demanded our money and threatened us with violence, but there is a big leap between a threat and the follow through of that threat. We must remember it was us who stuck the first blow. One of these men fled when it did come to violence, the others, perhaps entrapped by an indecision on whether to leave their comrades, who may even be their friends, in combat." "I will not judge your decision," she says softly to Xerxes,, Reyn and feruni in turn,"As what will be will be and my god will accept his soul should you decide to end his miserable life. I only say these things so you understand the full weight of your choice." She finishes and stands and waits, her eyes glancing from one person to the next.

She smiles with innocent joy at the bard. "It's a good sandwich." Looking at the man and the terror on his face she feels a slight pang of pity. She sighs at the bard, and seems to make up her mind. "Pretty words and dangerous words are all well and good." she takes another bite out of her sandwich and lettice leaf sticks out of her mouth. With her mind she reaches out and finds the peasant's mind, the terror is strong but she easily slips round the fear and sooths his mind. Concentration Check DC10: [dice:2yr2chph]20+9[/dice:2yr2chph] She looks down at the man, and finishes eating the mouthful. "Now are you a friend who wants pretty words, or an enemy who wants dangerous ones?" ((Psionic Charm - Exactly the same as Arcane Charm Person, his mood instantly changes to friendly towards me and he acts accordingly. He gets a Will Save if he wants to take it. I know if the power fails or succeeds.))

"At first I was going to suggest bringing him to the authorities, but the way you put it Evelyn... I think we should let him go, I have plenty of extra food, I can spare him some for his family and provide him with some coin. I'm not going to feel sorry about us killing two of his friends because it was in self defense... but what's done is done and we have to think about what's best now" Xerxes sighs and stands up "If you had only asked us for help I would have given you all the food I could spare and some supplies,it didn't have to come to this" "regardless, I can't allow any of you to kill him, but I will abide by a decision of either bringing him to the authorities in the next town or releasing him, what say you all?"

Signa watches Mitra. There is less girl in her now. Something dangerous. Purposeful. The wind whispers as Xerxes speaks. [dice:1d3j6bpp]20+3[/dice:1d3j6bpp] Bardic Knowledge check regarding Mitra's actions, i.e. psionic ability lore/possibility. He waits. Letting the interaction between girl and captive play out. In reality, he knows the decision has already been made, or basics of it are done. Evelyn planted the seed of compassion and in only those evil does it truly not sprout.

Feruni listened to the words of Xerxes. The dogs did seemed thinner than usual, but that's something you can't figure out easily in the heat of a fight. Before he could say anything, Evelyn spoke her soft words about letting the man live. In the end, it seemed that they were attacked by a bunch of farmers that were starving. "Let him go, Xerxes, we cannot be delayed so much. Give the man some rations in the exchange for his copper pieces, so that he remembers that he paid for the food. He didn't stole nor was it given for free". ((Back to Umslopogaas and Tathza.))

Tathza see's the newcomer making his way to him and makes no move or action. Tathza did not feel pity for the captured human and would have prefered to be done with him but if the group was in agreement he cared little. If their actions came back to revisit them in a less favorable turn he would remind them of their actions and would not suffer for it. Tathza had his theories concerning this one but would listen to what he had to say and base his words and actions on that. Personally Tathza had little respect for those who were bound by nature but he was first and foremost objective and logical in his reasoning. He would listen for now.

Feruni saw that the wizard made no moves, so he waved at Umslopogaas to move closer. "Looks like he wants to listen to what you have to say first, wildstaff. Your go". And then he back at one of carts and crossed arms, waiting for Umslopogaas words.

Umslopogaas moves in front tathza standng with strengh in his back and wisdom in countanance and humor in his eyes, staff held with his left hand along the side of his body with the feathers attacthed to hit rustling in the wind, with a nod to feruni Umslopogaas starts to speak in clear soothing baritone. " greetings ... i am Umslopogaas, a traveller of thease lands for many a moon too see what i can see, letting the spirits guide my footsteps, letting them fall on the path that they have laid for me... and it is the will of the spirits tha finds me here in front of you." " may i ask what is the your name, so we can be strangers no more and ask what brings you out in to the wildeness and to camp in such an exposed place" " it looks that your group does not know the ways of the wild very well , maybe if you tell me your intensions i could help by guiding you through the wildness"

[b:3nq2jlwi]Feruni and Signa take some pity on the poor farmer, they offer to escort him back to his home. The farmer promptly agrees to this, glad to be able to see his family again. At that moment a cart appears and stops at your camp. The cart has two guards dressed in the Belfor town guard uniform and also in the cart is a stocky looking dwarf with a mace, a metal shield and wearing breastplate. The dwarf has a hard look about him, he is very hairy and rather ugly, although that's not unusual for a dwarf. The dwarf says "Coor damme me laa, stone de croze where did all this bloody blood come from aye. La dee daa, you lot been avin a pig fest or somtin aye?" After a short pause and not waiting for a reply "Anyways, da Mayor like he says ta me like ya can andle youself in a fight aye, so hoows abouts ya get to dat party I sent and elp em eh, der be good rewards if ya do. So like me tinks well stone de croze i got notin betta ta do at da mo so why not eh, and he lends me dis breastplate gives me an offical notes and I get dis cart and guards to escort me to ya lot. I presume ya lot are da lot looking for da hidden riders aye?" He shows you a letter with the mayor's offical seal. He say's "dis is da letta sayin I am ta join ya lot on da mission aye." [/b:3nq2jlwi] ((DM: edit, dwarf has mace not axe))

As Feruni and Signa are aiding the peasant on his journey home and the wild looking man is speaking to the drow, Evelyn decides to approach the dwarf. She takes the rolled up scroll from the dwarf's hand and unrolls it, reading its contents. Satisfied with its contents, she bows slightly to the dwarf and says softly, "Welcome," she glances at the scroll again," Mordel, my name is Evelyn Good. let me allow the others to introduce themselves to you as they wish," and gestures him to follow her.

"Allo ta you too Avelyn, me's be likin ta get off dis cart, good ta get a streach aye." Mordel De La Fort follows Evelyn.

As they walk toward the group, Evelyn says, " It is fortunate you have arrived we are to lose a fighter and bard. Your skills will no doubt be very welcome here."

Tathza had to remind himself that humans had strange ways. The wild human had used more words in his introduction then a high priestess. Why did they insist on honeyed words and long winded titles. Tathza saved the answer for another day. "My name is Tathza Sabran formerly of House Sabran and acting guide for this group. We camped here tonight so that we could start back on our mission quickly after some rest and be on the road to find the hidden riders. We were then attacked by some theives and shortly after the battle you showed yourself. If you wish to assist us that is your choice but we can not be overly delayed. Once we rest I would suggest we get back on the road. But as I understand it not all among us require such little rest as elves do. So a safe resting place would be welcome, for it appears being near the roads is no longer safe with more then the riders to deal with." Tathza saw yet another newcomer and made no show of his thoughts concerning dwarves. The surface dwarves were said to be different from their kin in the deep. But Tathza knew that they were akin to the drow and the surface elves but only in that rare sense. Tathza had a hard enough time with the humans but now a dwarf. Perphaps he would share is tiring thoughts of them or most likely be as them.

(( map updated to show arrival of cart with guards and Model who has got off the cart and follow evelyn ))

[as Mordel interacts with group Eve slips form group to Zinnaella) Evelyn walks to Zinnaella and passes the scroll to her and in a whisper says, "is this authentic? I know little of forgeries, so looks authentic to me."

umposlogaas says " yes camping along the road side might have been a mistake but there is a clearing a little way in the wooods if you where to drive the wagons in to the tree line we could disguise them with bushes a branches so that it is not seen and then camp in the clearing wher your campfire would not be seen for miles around" "or you camp here for the rest of the night and trust in the spirits to gaurd you... maybe your kind actions with the your surviving attacker will show his fellow bandits you are not worth attacking..." "what ever you decide i would like to here of your mission! who are thease hidden riders you speak off? and what will you do when you find them?"

Mordel spots the fire and casts a spell, suddenly the fire is quenched by water. "STONE DE CROZE!!! Who lit a fire ere. Da as been such an eat wave ere dis year dat there should be no fires lit anyway near da forest, or we could get da big forest on fire like, an Jeden Zelený would be very angry ta dat. Praise be ta Jeden Zelený, Praise be ta Jeden Zelený. ((He cast 0th level create water on the fire))

Tathza noted the dwarf's use of magic. He thought it was a pure waste. But noted it none the less, surface dwarves were not known for their magic unless it came in the form of craft working with weapons and armor. "It is up to the others what they wish to do concerning the camp. But I see no reason why we would not take cover to rest. As for the riders we are to find them and make sure that they no longer plague the people with their actions. The means are our own to choose." The humans words made sense about keeping themselves hidden and taking steps so that their passing was not known. This human he could work with. After all, you simply had to look at the wounds of the others to see the wisdom in his words and the price of being a fool.

((Seeing as I never got a response about my Psionic charm i'm going to take the PsiPoint back)) She waved after the bard and the barbarian as they went back off on the cart with the farmer. They would be safe with the guards and horse. She would miss the barbarian since he had been nice enough to ask for their help, but it seemed now that it would be up to the others to svae the ugly princess, and turn her into a beutiful swan. Althrough the magic of such things was completely lost to her. She finished the last bit of her sandwich and turned to the rest of the group speaking to the new comers. Mitra was tired from the day and the fight at the end and all she wanted to do was rest. The dwarf had doused the fire and the night was starting to get cold. She walked over to Eve and tugged on her shawl to get some attention. "Evey it's cold why can't we have a fire. He doesn't speak in a language I know, and he is smelly, I don't think he has bathed in a while."

Zinnaella gives Evelyn a helpless look, "A forgery? I have no idea what to look for either." Zinnaella gives it a look though, seeing if it looks like what she remembers of the Mayor's writing style. As she does, the new dwarf douses the fire with water, destroying the light so she can't look it over anymore. Although it meant things might be cooler overnight that actually sounded good after the heat of the day, and it could be interesting camping out in the dark. She looks up to the dark sky and the stars [i:1mzrepgt]And without light, we are going to have to camp soon[/i:1mzrepgt]. She didn't care where they camped, but she knew that some were going to need rest soon. She then looks around at her companions, recalling the battle and the aftermath. Evelyn, Val, and Tathza had all used a number of spells and from what she knew, would need rest to recover those spells. Tathza had mentioned that he only needed four to five hours, must be the elf blood. If she and Tathza took one watch, that left Xerxes to take one with either Mitra or one of the newcomers. [i:1mzrepgt]I hate to admit it, but I'd feel safer with one of the newcomers on watch...[/i:1mzrepgt] Once the group determined where they would camp, then they could worry about watch shifts.

Plunged into darkness, she sees Zinnaella's face strain, no longer able to see the contents of the scroll. She turns to see the cause and gives the dwarf a sour look. knowledge religion check [dice:372hh9pj]20+4[/dice:372hh9pj] (think thats enough) Upon hearing him say 'jeden zeleny' she understands his actions, 'the green one' she muses, he must have an affinity with nature she surmises. Upon that discovery her facial expression softens just as Mitra tugs on her shawl. She turns to face her, "I know Mitra, dear, it is getting cold. I will see if I can find out our next plan." she whispers into Mitra's ear before leaving, "I don't think he can help being so smelly," she gives Mitra a wink. Walking over to Tathza, she addresses him, "Tathza, you have chosen us this campsite and we have been waylead by peasants turned thieves." "I do not blame you for that, for I believe you could not have foreseen such an incident. But what I need to know is, how current is your knowledge of this area. It will help us to determine how we should proceed. Are we safe to stay or do you have other thoughts on the matter?" She sees the wild looking man and turns to face him, "Forgive me you must think me rude, My name is Evelyn it is a pleasure to meet you... ....and yours is?"

Xerxes introduces himself to the dwarf. In dwarven "well met, I am Xerxes, we will get aquainted soon, I have things that need doing at the moment, I'm sure we are pleased to have you". Xerxes then also introduces himself to the man from the forest "Hello, I am Xerxes, I am pleased we have been fortunate enough to have attracted the attention of someone who has the knowledge and skill to help us on the road, especially so late at night. I agree with your proposal, if the others also agree then we shall make out at once" Xerxes begins to pack up everything that's not already stored on the wagons and waits close to the tent ready to pack it as soon as the group has decided one way or another.

umposlogaas looks around the group as they discusses his surgeestion and thinks that night is drawring and thaese people are tired when they decide we will need to move quickly. i must be ready to move quickly myself. so while they discuss and pack up this camp umposlogass turns to the wooods and lets out a low wolf cry " aawooooo" shortly afterwoods a big grey wolf trots out the woods ad comes and stands his feet, umposlogaas bends down and gives the wolf a affeconate hug and ruffles his fur as the party react to this he will turn o the ppl looking at him and say " this is my friend bollo he will not harm you" when the party are ready umposlogaas will lead the carts a liitle way from this camp site before parking them in the tree line nd then will use his woodland sklls to hide them ((rolling a survival check)) [dice:1w6hjbii] 20+6[/dice:1w6hjbii] after taht is done umposlogaas will lead them to the clearing in the woods [color=#FF8000:1w6hjbii] ((DM: You manage to hide the carts))[/color:1w6hjbii]

Val stands up after a while and notices a change around him. Some are missing, and new ones appeared. The bard and meatshield both left with the thief and now two new characters, a man of the wild with his wolf companion a dwarf who can use magical arts are present. He greets them "You can call me Val" and after a little chat he understands that he should follw them. (( turn 5))

[b:3g8ufixo] The Guards leave with their cart. Thoose that wish to are guided to a "safer place" in the forest which is a clearing 10 minutes walk into the forest that the horses could be led too.[/b:3g8ufixo] ((New map, place your characters if you want to go to that clearing....)) ((DM: edit, should have been chapter 2, have changed title))

Evelyn looks around the small clearing, eyeing the treeline then turns her attention back to the group. The clearing seems very secluded and she hopes she can trust this newcomer who guided them here. "Thank you umposlogaas for guiding us here," she says in her soft voice. "as said before I am happy to take my turn as watch should i be needed." "We were waylead with little warning by those thieves, so if anyone has ideas to give us an 'advance warning' if such a thing should occur again, your advice im sure will be most welcome." She feels Mitra shiver next to her and turns to face her, "I do not think our new found friend Mordel would be happy if we start another fire especially in such a small clearing." she whispers to Mitra. She removes her travelling cloak and wraps it around Mitra, gently rubbing her shoulders to create warmth. "lets get you comfy and warm" she smiles at her. and looks around the clearing for someplace to rest.

Zinnaella moves along with the group to the more secluded spot. As they move, she approaches the dwarf. She keeps her eyes low, not comfortable with making introductions. Nonetheless, she speaks to him in dwarven, "I am Zinnaella, I'm glad the mayor thought to send you our way." She raises her head and gives him a slight, but sincere, smile. "Would you be willing to help with a watch tonight?"

So far the two newcomers were not on Mitra's good list. One had douced the fire so she would be freezing cold tonight and the other had made the walk even further to find what looked like the smallest clearing in the world. All this extra security and she bet it wasn't needed. The fire would not have burnt the forest down it wasn't exactly huge and the nine dead dogs and two dead men would have been enough to keep any more from coming even if wolves decided to turn up they would have eaten the dogs and the men not the ones still walking around. She shivered in voluntarily. Eve wraped a cloak around her and started to rub. She began to get warm but not nearly as warm as a fire would make her. She was half tempted to set the forest ablaze just to serve the stupid dwarf right. It wasn't friendly to walk inot a cmap and douse there fire out.

Mordel walks over to umposlogaas and says "I can see you are a man of da forest. I too respect and love da forest, it tis so important to da world we da lives in aye. Me's is glad a fellow like yous tis guidin us." Mordel offers umposlogaas his hand to shake in friendship.

Val follows the group, closing the distance between him and Evelyn, who he trusts the most. "Do you think we can trust them ? They both seem to have some connection with natural magic, which is a little bit too much of a coincidence for me, espacially when one of them is a dwarf..." he whispers. "Perhaps we are going right into a trap, you should be prepared. Tell Mitra about it."

umposlogaas looks athe the dwarfs hands quizzicaly as if not sure what is called for then tentatively reachs forward with his hand and shakes it " your respect towards the forest does you credit, my name is umslopogaas" " The forest is triible thirsty with this drought! but with precautions it would be safe to have a small fire come ill show you" umposlogass gets a stick and digs a fire pit with the end and lines the edges with any stone he digs up and any lying round the clearing, the earth he digs out the hole he puts in a mound next to the pit to use in case the fire get too high then starts to put a fire together (( if no one stops him))

Mitra eyes Val. Does he really have to be this close, she could smell his musk. It made her almost sick that smell, the musk, the haze, the testosterone. He was really to close, so she gave him a glare again, hopeing he would really get the hint and stay away. If not then she would have to up the stakes and start testing him. Never had a man taken such an interest in Eve or her, this was beginning to be annoying.

Mordel says to Zinnaella "Yea I am glad da mayor sent ma toos and it be nice ta meet ya, I would da bees happy ta take a watch ta night". To umposlogass he says "But da trees are soo dry cus of da months o eat wave we been avin, evan dat type of fire risk a forest fire now, da mayor as declared no fires in da forest"

Mordel motions to umposlogass to not light the fire. He says "Please da not light da fire."

at mordels insistance umposlogaas he dsnt lite the fire umslopogaas dosnt look paticualy pleased that mordal dosnt trust his ablities to make a safe fire but shrugs his shoulders in acceptance of strange clerics whishes

Tathza moved off on his own a little ways. The dwarf was making foolish demands of the group and being a newcomer had no right to make any demands. The darkness and lack of heat bothered Tathza not at all but the humans were blind in the darkness and seem to be bothered by the chill. The dwarf was forcing his ways on the group without reason. Dwarves could see in darkness and their thick skin meant they suffered little from heat or cold, so while he may be comfortable at the moment the humans are cold and blind. "Dwarf you do know that humans can not see very well in darkness and are not as resistent to the cold as you. If the way of your god demands that you take care not to start a forest fire then by all means keep watch on the flames. But I for one have no intention of suffering a cold night because of your fear. Umslopogaas by all means take care to start the flames and protect the forest as is your calling. I will take my rest and keep watch afterwards" Tathza had said his peace and if the dwarf insisted then let the humans be the author of their own suffering as it was so often. Tathza found a soft patch on the ground and began to study his spells after which he sink into reverie.

Evelyn listens to Val's concerns. She too is suspicious of the newcomers but does not know how much of it is old nerves. "Both of our newcomers with an affinity to nature could seem suspicious," she whispers in reply to Val, "yet we can also argue we are in a forest, so the likelihood of that may well increase." She considers her next words then whispers softly in his ear, "You are right though, it would do us no harm to be wary of these people thus we should avoid letting our guard down." "When watch is assigned we should ensure we take different watches to look out for each other." she steps back and smiles at him. She glances over and sees the interaction between the dwarf, the wildman and the drow. The drow is right of course and she hopes a solution that benefits all is found. she rubs her arms subconciously to stave off the ever creeping cold.

"Mordel tis be wonders why some of you peoples da not understand da we bin havin eat wave in da last few months an we canna risk a fire and also dat it tas been disallow by da mayor and Jeden Zelený would be not wan da. Why ya talkin about da cold, tis not cold in da evinins dees days not evan for da humans." "Just me, I canna stop ya all from startin a fire but da is a good chance if ya da dat it ill start a forest fire even if da put it in a hole, it take just one emba ta float high inta da trees and start da fire high in da tree leaves."

"Peraps Mordel should return to da mayor an inform im of yous wishin to disobeys his orders. Orders dat ad been made for da good of da forest".

Mitra was starting to warm to the Ugg man at least he was making a fire... the dwarf was smelly, ugly, and didn't want a fire. He was throwing around big sweeping statements about the mayor, but not mentioning his ugly daughter, at least that was something. She began the process of reaching out with her mind, to feel for the dwarf but before she got a chance Eve leveled a look at her and she closed her mind and huffed. "If you paid me some more attention, then I wouldn't have to make my own entertainment." She whispered in her ear. She leveled a look at the elf then back at Eve "Or has someone caught your eye." She then looked at the rogue and her slender form. She yawned, "I'm tired can we just get the fire going, and set the tent up?"

Evelyn sighs softly," I'm sorry Mitra dear, you are right of course, I should pay you more attention." "We have been traveling on our own for so long, mixing with all these new people well...well its...its all new...." she trails off, sitting cross legged next to Mitra. she shakes herself from her thoughts and adds in a cheerful voice. "Come on then let's build that tent, we can play a game if you wish while we build..." "I'll start. I spy with my little eye. Something beginning with 'Ugly'!" she says with a smile.

umslopogaas takes his que from tathza and starts the fire whilst doing so he says to mordel " maybe whilst you where worshiping nature in your temple in the city they didnt teach how to make a very slow burning fire which dosnt have embers flying up " umslopogaas thinks to him self that tathza showed stong leadership in this

Mordel without anouther word leaves.

Xerxes stands and watches the interactions in silence, the shift of people is unnerving. Out at sea it's you and perhaps 20 men, that's it, every day for months, sometimes years on end. Unless someone dies, the people around you don't change very often; this was a little much. not knowing who to trust, the ways of lubbers, he had been getting along best with Feruni and Signa and now they were both gone, [i:2jogyd1a]maybe I should have gone too, but I have a feeling I'm going to be needed, let the dwarf suit himself, this guy Umm looks like he can handle a fire.[/i:2jogyd1a] "Thanks Tathza, we appreciate it" Xerxes helps Eve and Mitra set up the tent and then sets about walking around the small clearing slowly, peering into the woods. Saying to no one in particular "This isn't any use, I can't see a damn thing in this canopy and I can't use my lamp because it will attract too much attention. I will rest here by the fire, but I'm afraid I'm not going to be much use" Xerxes changes into his studded leather armor and hunkers down near the smoldering pit.

Mitra claps her hands together "Ooo I like games." She thinks hand while setting up the tent. "Something ugly... hmmm... has to be something you can see so it can't be the mayor's daughter... unless she has snuck after us?" She takes a look around the camp but can't see the mayor's daughter any where. "Hmmm... Oooo I know the dwarf." She beams a smile then looks over to where the dwarf was not fifteen minutes earlier. "Oh... it can't be him he isn't here any more." She scratches her head and goes back to her thinking.

"Really?" says Evelyn glancing around, "that's strange he was here a moment ago." she shrugs. "Perhaps he is scouting around our camp" she suggests. "Anyway as you guessed correctly, perhaps you would like a go now? Or maybe Xerxes would enjoy a turn?" she glances at Xerxes who is helping them build the tent.

To Evelyn "I'll try and keep watch as best I can for a time and then get some sleep while Tathza relieves me, the rest of you can fit in as you please, we've lost and gained members, any schedule is better than none at this point"

[b:1uzvr93k]Eventually you decide it’s really about time to get some sleep or trance. Those that have allocated a watch take their allocated watches. The night is relatively peaceful here and you feel rather safer here given the troubles along side the road you experienced earlier. The night goes by with no one else encountering this hidden place. In the morning it’s seems to be yet another hot day, where are the clouds you wonder there should have been some rain now, it’s been weeks with no rain. Also the smelly rather preachy dwarf is still gone, but at least everyone else is still here.[/b:1uzvr93k]

Tathza greeted the day by checking his person. Aknma was content and by all the gods be damned he was dirty once more. Even thru the night he had gotten some of the surface words filth on him. He could not wait until he could take a proper bath. He settled to dusting himself off. He checked the others in the group and the dwarf was gone, like shifting winds they come and go yet the mission remains undone and none have fallen. What selfish beings these surfacers tended to be about their own little actions, Tathza was glad the truely powerful were nothing like their weaker kin. Tathza had a single comforting thought and that was "My power is restored". He could not help but feel better with his spells back in full and his power flowing thru him.

Xerxes packs up everything not on carts unless someone is still using it, changes back into the breastplate, and then eats some breakfast while waiting for everyone to get prepared. It's only morning and already it feels like it's going to be a hot day, Xerxes dons his black and blue bandana to keep the sweat out of his eyes [i:3op21tpr]blasted metal armor...[/i:3op21tpr] When he sees everyone still sleeping or sluggish Xerxes pulls out his fiddle and sounds off the morning while singing "On the fourth of July eighteen hundred and six, We set sail from the sweet cove of Cork We were sailing away with a cargo of bricks For the grand city hall in New York 'Twas a wonderful craft, she was rigged fore-and-aft And oh, how the wild winds drove her. She'd got several blasts, she'd twenty-seven masts And we called her the Irish Rover." ((I take 10 on my perform check = 12 (10+2))) ((for the full song go here http://www.shanemacgowan.com/lyrics/irishrover.shtml))

Zinnaella spelt for a number of hours, but woke a couple hours before sunrise and moved to the edge of the small clearing, taking a spot in the dense foliage and thick trees - where even starlight could not reach her. In that complete darkness, Zinnaella relaxed, letting all concerns, worries, and thought flow out of her to be swallowed up by the shadows. This was not a necessary ritual, but one that always helped her. With all the new people she met today and the battle they faced, Zinnaella needed to re-find her focus more than ever. [i:p8b9tr48]Well, almost more than ever..[/i:p8b9tr48] Zinnaella shuddered as the thought crept in and threatened to bring back those memories again. She curled up into herself, becoming one with the darkness as she forced the thought to an end. After an hour, she finally brought herself to open her eyes, to find complete darkness around her. She didn't fear the dark as so many did, but yet she expected to be able to see out of the darkness she placed herself in. She remained there, still calm, and as she took a breath she realized what happened - her face was in the ground! Zinnaella rolled her eyes at herself and sat up, but still couldn't avoid smirking at herself - glad that no one had been around to see her. She remained there a little longer, looking out from the shadows, watching the camp and all that around her, although very little moved at that hour. Then suddenly there was soft music coming from the camp, drawing her attention. [i:p8b9tr48]Did they return?[/i:p8b9tr48] she wondered, thinking maybe the bard and the warrior had returned during the night. However, the music and voice had a different sound so she figured it must be one that had remained. [i:p8b9tr48]I guess that means the others are arising as well.[/i:p8b9tr48] With that, Zinnaella removed herself from the shadows to greet the morning. She wiped the dirt from her face as best she could and re-entered the camp, seeing what everyone was up to.

Just like every other night Mitra had not slept. It was fear of the dreams that kept her mind awake, but her body and her mind didn't need sleep, just rest. She had laid down next to Eve and waited till she had drifted off to sleep. Once she heard the sweet sounds of her lover sleeping, she opened her eyes and let her mind wonder a bit. Everything that had happened to her in the thousands of years of her life was lost, she remembered snatches of the first time she had met Eve, the restaurant, the meat and the maggots. She had fallen in love that day and she had tried her hardest to be ever close to her since, due to her blackouts she couldn't remember much of the in between times. Just like she had no idea how she had come to be here but her powers had been signifcantly weakened since the last time she remembered. She wondered what more of a purpose there was to this existance, but she cast the thought from her mind as she gently stroked Eve's hair. She would protect her friend, sister, daughter, co-conspirture and her lover, from anything that would treaten her. Eve stured and Mitra sliped into her mind and soothed her dreams with soft music, she had once heard, many thousands of years before or after this existance, it was hard to remember these days. The hours passed by as they ever did and when the first glimpses of light started to filter through the trees and the others began to stir, she closed her eyes and waited patiently like always for Eve to awaken.

Tathza suddenly remembers something that he had forgotten due to the battle and other distractions. He spots Zinnaella near by. His mind was not made up about her due to her actions with the other two females as well as during the battle, but he would use her to speak to those he would rather not deal with himself. "Zinnaella could I have a word with you?"

Zinnaella looked over to the side as someone called her name. Tathza was there, asking for a moment. Zinnaella nodded in agreement and followed the half-drow, wondering what he wanted to speak about.

[i:3uqchpqw]She can see nothing but the greyness all around her. The stone floor is cold on her bare feet and her steps are so silent she can only hear the beating of her heart in her chest. Yet she is not afraid. The temperature drops, sending an icy chill up her spine. Unseen hands caress her feet and ankles as she passes, their touch the chill of the grave. Shadows rise from the nothingness around her until they form a circle, an impenetrable ring of death. A black cloaked form rises within the circle, Its ragged hood flapping with an unfelt breeze. Towering above her, its long pointed skeletal maw ending in long jagged teeth draws closer to her face. She does not feel the long wicked blade until it bursts out of her back with a spray of blood. Intense pain wracks her body but she stands firm. “You are weak, you will fail...” The creature hisses into her ear. The blade is thrust through again, causing blood to dribble from her lips. “…and I shall have what is rightfully mine,” the creature continues. “ENOUGH” comes a firm voice. A tall, cloaked figure glides into the circle. The creature and shadows shrink back. “COME CHILD” the tall figure commands. She does as bid, the pain already gone, knowing the knife wound is no longer there. She follows the figure, finding herself stepping onto a long skiff made of ebony wood. Her hood falls onto her head and she realises her clothes have changed to a black velvet hooded robe, tied with a black rope sash. The boat glides from the shore, its long thin shape cutting through the heavy low mist. When the shore can no longer be seen, the cloaked figure turns to face her. A skeletal finger points to the water’s surface and she looks over the side. At first the water’s reflection is inky black, then an image appears, a dark cavernous tunnel… the scene plays out, followed by another and another. When complete the water returns to its inky blackness. She looks up as a question forms on her lips “DO NOT FORGET WHO OR WHAT YOU ARE” the cloaked form instructs. Just then a soft music begins to emanate through the air and she feels a calming sensation within. A soft glow like the morning sun appears on the water, which grows in size with a sudden movement and suddenly she sees the inside of the tent[/i:3uqchpqw]. She rolls over with a yawn and sees Mitra seated patiently nearby and she smiles a warm smile.

Zinnaella returns to camp and aides in everyone getting up and ready to move out. As the sun rises, along with the temperature, Zinnaella can't help but think back to the shadows she found and how cool and comfortable they were. The memory of that short time keeps her comfortable enough to get through the morning heat. As the group prepares to move out, she takes the cart with the other two females again. (( on to turn Prejete thread))

[i:hwkw5oyb]Another vision ![/i:hwkw5oyb] Val doesn't kow what they mean, not does he remember what happened exactly. Waiting for the rest of the group to wake up, he concentrates to regain his divine powers. After completing it, the others seem ready to continue the journey, at least. (( Ch. 2))

Travel becomes tedious. As the party moves inland away from the moderating sea, the temperatures swing from unbearably hot during the day to very cold at night. It is as if the land has given up the struggle to stay green and the Lords of The Desert Lands are laying claim to it. There is no relief, nor refuge from the blazing sun. Skin chaffs under armor, the horses wither under the toil of the wagons, and life slips away in a mirage of choking dust during a time when it should be cooler so close to the Turning. So near the fall of bright leaves from trees readying for snow. And yet, the heat worsens. Day by day. Ten kilometers outside Prejete scattered farms begin to be seen. The party rides by a few and stops. All are empty. Crop lands dry in drought, fissures in the parched soil a hand's length deep. Closer, the farms become more regular and a silence sits in the air where there should be the sounds of harvest. Then, you smell it first, trudging over a low rise. The stench of rotting. Five kilometers out and the party passes failed live stock. Twenty three cows lay bloated and ruptured by the heat in a shriveled field. Not even the crows or buzzards dare eat under the blazing sun. They wait for the coolness just after dust. Those are best times. The few hours after dusk and those close to sunrise are bearable. The rest are filled with either miserable heat or intolerable cold for sweat wet clothes. Finally, Prejete. Up the dirt road the wagons roll, horses heads down, yellow froth on some of their mouths. The party pass two teams of men who have begun digging about 30 meters from the town's low wall as the sun sits near setting. Oddly, ten men guard the town's entrance, five to a side, with spears. Thick oak doors set into a low, nearly perfunctory, 3.5 meter stone wall are open. Having watched the party move to the gate, a single man, an officer by dress, holds a hand for the wagons to stop. Two of his guards level spears at a slight angle from vertical toward the wagon. The officer looks over the wagons and the party, seemingly in no hurry. Eventually, he addresses the party in a loud and deep voice. "What business brings you here," he asks, searching for a voice amongst the group. ((I started a new turn to begin with. Please finish posting in the last if you wish. When posting, you may state actions that you consider during the travel and roll for those as you think necessary, for example gather info, knowledge skills.))

Tathza hated traveling these damned lands. Only his thoughts of the cool dark tunnels and their endless silence gave him any comfort. But the lands around him did not go without notice to him. They seemed out of the norm even for surfacers. Knowledge (geography, history, nature, local) [dice:3obvf5su]1d20+4[/dice:3obvf5su] [dice:3obvf5su]1d20+4[/dice:3obvf5su] [dice:3obvf5su]1d20+4[/dice:3obvf5su] [dice:3obvf5su]1d20+6[/dice:3obvf5su]

Tathza. 1. There are the beginning of mountains close. Four days ride from Prejete. (Local) 2. Klavir Bile has been the Mayor of Prejete for 15 years. The town is moderately large and nestled within the the early hills. Miners call it home as do herders and terracing farmers. (Local) (Post Edited from original)

Tathza had to stop himself from giving a cutting remark as well as a profond sigh. He was tired, sore, and by all the gods above and below dirty once more. Aknma was even giving his complaints about the conditions, which was a feat in and of itself. Now this overpuffed human was nearly yelling at him like he was some sort of ruler addressing commoners. Tathza pushed his control on himself along with a deep breath. "I am the guide for this group and am here on business from the mayor of Belfor. You will let us pass and I would also ask of you to direct us to The Lonely Miner for we are tired of the road and the day. I thank you for any aid you can give us and will be sure to mention it to the mayor. Is there any customs or laws we must be aware of while we are in your domain?" Tathza kept his voice level and clear of any ill intent. Even the most stubborn of guards could not find fault or reason with such a manner, but then again these were humans and they rarely needed reason for much of anything.

Mitra hasn't really felt the heat or the cold at all. Since her body is completely self sufficient she hasn't taken on much water or food except token gestures when it is offered to her. She is still in a chirpy mood when the guard askes his questions and she lets the half-cast answer for the group. She watches the men as they toil away at digging the ditch. She leans over to Eve and askes "Why they digging?"

Unlike Mitra, Evelyn has felt the unbearable heat as they traveled. Sweat runs down her brow as they make their way to Prejete, her veil giving small respite from the sun's glare. At one point in their journey she walks close to Val and whispers, "I think we need to talk at an opportune moment. There is something I need to discuss with you." As they pass the bloated corpses of the cattle she says a short prayer and for the most part keeps her thoughts to herself, occasionally answering an inquisitive question or responding to a remark from Mitra. As the half drow speaks to the guards, she feels Mitra tug at her dress and hears her question. "I too am wondering this," she replies softly. Now that they have engaged in small talk with the guard she deems it unwise to walk from the group and approach the men toiling in the ditch so instead she walks to stand beside Tathza. Not wanting to interrupt she waits till an appropriate time in their conversation to address the Officer by saying. "My name is Evelyn, I am a priestess of Vecer." she bows slightly, "I hope I do not step over my bounds in asking but wish to inquire what the ditch is for?" She hopes the answer is a mundane one but fears it could be for something much worse. By announcing her faith, she hopes the guard understands why she may ask such a question.

Xerxes sits by patiently, sweating, happy to let the others do the talking.

Val was still thinking about his vision when suddenly Eve appears near him and whispers in his ear. Half afraid, half ashamed he blushes as she says she wants to speak with him. He whispers back, getting closer to her ear: "So be it. Tell me when you think the opportunity is right."

Indeed, Alesandr was an officer, although there had been plenty of men who stood by him during his carrier as a soldier who needed no sash to tell them he was a man to follow. He inspected the wagons and those they carried closely. He cared not for whether the one who spoke was drow or, for that matter, an orc, gnome, or mountain dwarf. Each could be counted on in battle and each could also be an enemy. It mattered not in his view. It all depended on which side of the line one stood. But, no matter how put or whether veiled in even spoken words, Alesandr was not one to be told. And the drow had distinctly told him what it was his duty to do. A city guard may have bristled at such, but a fighting man worth his iron wouldn't make his displeasure so easily noticeable, although there were subtle signs for a swordsman to see. Alesandr dropped his arms to his sides and hooked his thumbs into his belt. It put his hands much closer to his sword. And his head turned a bit, just a little, an involuntary movement just after the drow says that he 'will let them pass.' Alesandr waves his fingers as if brushing away a fly and a guard steps up promptly despite such a small motion. "Names and occupation," Alesandr says without looking at the guard. "Yes Captain." Alesandr turn back to the drow as his man goes about receiving names and occupation. The guard is young. It will do him good to interact with these folk at the gate and to learn after a proper way of handling them. For now, Alesandr lets him make his own mistakes. One can't learn without them and Alesandr knew these folk would not likely be a threat. The drow had truth about him even if his words were condescending. "Funny," he starts, eyes on the drow. "I thought letting you pass was my decision." He opens his mouth to continue, but is interrupted by a priestess of Vecer. Cool words on tinder. He knows Vecer. Many of that Gods disciples tended to the wounded and dying when he campaigned in the north against the King of Birds. "Priestess. Welcome." A short bow of respect. "May Vecer find favor in you. Those men are digging a earthen works. Not for the dead, but for added protection of the city. Times seem to be turning and a change in weather often brings about the worse in the wicked or down hearted. Do you travel with this drow," he asks. "And what is this business you have in the city?" ((The other guard goes about the wagon asking names and occupation. He is inquisitive. Just out of boyhood.))

"Thank you for your kind words" Evelyn replies softly to the officer. She stalls for a moment to take in the weight of the officers previous words about letting them pass and says "Yes we travel with Tathza" she gestures to the half drow, " he is our guide through these lands." "If we have offended or over stepped our bounds, in anyway ,I apologise to you and ensure you, any sleight is likely a result of this unbearable heat. We are traveling through these lands on a matter of import for Ken Zname, mayor of Belfor. We merely look for a place to stay, for a small reprise from the glaring heat and to rest awhile before we continue on in our travels. We mean no ill and wish for no trouble, we have gold to pay for any services required, and a bed to rest on." [not sure if this needs to be a diplomacy roll if yes] [dice:1j9pvjp5]20+4[/dice:1j9pvjp5] (doh! lets hope it doesn't rely on a dice roll! )

Tathza took the guards words and was not surprised by it. "Yes indeed, your actions and choices are always your own to make. But rarely are the actions of the one suffered alone by that one. Do as you wish but I beg you consider your actions well for the well being of those around you are effected by your actions. After all you have already prepared for what will come and so will only add to it by baring us from giving aid that your own people have asked for. I can speak only for myself but I care little for what you and your kind do, but I have agreed to work towards a goal and I have every intention of completing my task. You do not appear to me as a foolish man that would let pride blind him to the well being of his people. I have stated my reason for coming to your land and your gates, I have asked for nothing more then what is expected. I have not asked for respect or manners and I expect none, what I do expect is for you to fulfill your duty and nothing more." He had been asked to guide them and he had been asked to bring them here. Yet these foolish humans did not even send word to their own guards and kin of their arrival. He had not even put his true services to the test and yet these simple things became overly annoying. Tathza wanted nothing more then to be done with this nonsense and get away from all the smells these humans gave off.

As the young man came up to Mitra she could see he was nervous. "Erm miss, can I have your name and occupation?" he stuttered. She smiled he was after all about the same age as the body she inhabited. She thought back to the conversation she had with Eve about men and boys. She didn't really trust men, after what had happened to her and she was already in love with Eve and in a relationship of a sorts with her. However Eve had blatently flirted with Val and him with her so maybe it was time for some friendly pay back. She slipped off the cart and bent down dusting the dirt off of her dress, then stood up straight and accidentally let gravity take the straps of her dress letting them slip down her arm. Her hair was loose and played over her skin. She pursed her lips and put on a cute little smile that Eve liked, she just hoped it would have the same effect on the boy. "My name is Mitra, but I don't have an occupation." She curled her hair between her fingers and leant forward to see what he was writing on his pad, holding the young mans eyes till the last second.

The young soldier's mind stutters briefly. His mouth open to catch flies as Mitra coyly tells him her name. It takes a moment for his brain to return to normal function. "Ah, yes," he says, tilting the paper so she can see. "Name, Mitra. Occupation, pretty," he continues. He actually starts writing 'pretty' on the page with Mitra watching and then, with a pause, realizes that instead of just thinking 'pretty' and writing 'none' for occupation he got the whole process reversed. Stammering a little, he tries to clear the whole thing up and begins scratching out the 'pretty' he's written. "Not pretty," he says blushing with a smile at Mitra. "I mean your occupation," he quickly adds making more errors. "I don't mean your not pretty, argh," he ends in a sigh and puts his head down quickly moving onto the next person. Things like this don't happen in the epics. The heroes are much smoother and dashing. Bylun thinks to himself that maybe he should of paid more attention to the signing bards and he'd have more luck, at least maybe on this occasion. As Bylun stumbles about his business, his Captain makes a decision. Seems best in his mind. Provoking the drow further simply wasn't worth it. Spent blood complicates matters and this issue was too small to spend that much energy on. The drow is right at least on some count. One doesn't ask for respect and the drow surely doesn't deserve it. He ignores Tathza. "Priestess. The Lonely Miner Tavern is on the east side. Inside the gate turn right along the inner wall. The tavern has a rear area for your carts and horses. Miro owns the place and is a good man. No trouble there," Alesandr says bringing his hand up over his heart in a brief salute. A long scar curls from the inside of his elbow to the outside of his hand, two fingers missing. His men relax and make way for the wagons. The Captain shouts at Bylun. "Boy, hurry up. And stop flirting with that girl." (on to Lonely Miner once everyone is done RP here)

Evelyn bows to the officer and replies, "sir, thank you." She turns at the officer's remark about his junior and sees Mitra flirting with the young soldier. She frowns, then smiles but says nothing. Turning to face the half-drow, she says with a sweeping arm movement, "Shall we?" She walks in with the group, following the officer's directions. [onto lonely Miner]

She laughs a girly laugh and holds her hand in front of her face. She scribbles a note on a piece of paper and slips it on to the little board the young man is using. It just says find me later. She then laughs some more and get back on the wagon, giving him a smile and a wink before settling back down again. If that didn't get Evelyn's attention then she would flirt some more with the young man when they got to the tavern. [Game set and Match... on to the tavern ]

Tathza speaks no more and simply wants to clean himself and get on with this business. He notices the humans scar's and holds back a laugh. What pride they had in displaying their shortcomings, he for one would never bear a scar for if he ever failed then he would die. Nothing that failed to kill him would make him bear any mark, after all those who spared gold or anything in restoring themselves deserved whatever suffering and shame came of it. Tathza would take care of his affairs and then move on with the mission. But he truely wondered at times. If such beings were worth saving at all, perphaps only when they fell would they temper themselves. But he had a mission he had agreed to and so he will complete it even if they did not deserve it. (on to the tavern...where by boy can finally get a bath )

The party either walk or ride in wagons bumpy along the cobbled way edging the inside of the low wall. Occasionally, in a seemingly haphazard way, streets branch off, some large enough for the wagons and others not. The sun is near setting, but heat still radiates from a ground and stone soaked by the sun during the day. Directions are gotten from passersby and in short order the company is slowing wagons at The Lonely Miner's back entrance, an open yard big enough for both wagons and a covered stable squeezed into row houses on either side. The tavern is three stories of wood with a brick foundation to the second floor. The ground floor is the largest and each next floor somewhat smaller, settled off center against the side facing west so as to shade the back yard near the sun's height. Entering, you notice two small pick axes mounted above the door crossed at the handles. Although still hot within, immediately the sun's grip releases. This place smells good. The smell of meat and ale, the sound of conversation and laughter, and a subtle meandering melody perfuses the Lonely Miner. It feels good. Like one's own place to rest and live. A tapper sits at a small desk before the entrance way to the main room. Stairs lead up just to his left. "Ho," he says with a smile, sipping a little at a small glass and putting down a wood flute which he had been fingering silently. "Rooms, I imagine," he continues scanning the group. "Mixed company. Can share a large room enough for all or separate. Cept the Big Room is 10gp per night an the wanderers quarters are 5sp per night. The wanderers rooms are bunkhouse style and everyone sleeps together." Once you've decided on the arrangements, the tapper tells you that you can get settled and make it to the main room for food and drink or pay extra to have it brought to you for a more quiet meal. If you choose to sleep in the Wanderers rooms, there are a mix of wooden and metal chests without locks to store your stuff and you'll claim open beds. You can all stay together in the same room, although there are others that also occupy other beds. Plans will likely have to be made for the morning as meeting the Mayor this late in the day will not happen. Furthermore, an audience with him must be arranged. If you should venture back to the main room you find that it is large enough for a hundred, yet cozy enough for four. The room is slightly round with a dormant fireplace in the center. A man with a lute plays next to the fireplace when he's not in conversation with nearby tables or drinking. The floor has two levels. Six large row tables line the lower level and smaller tables that can seat about four are arrange along the upper level. Two doors from the main room lead to the kitchen and a serving girl weaves in and out to get what is wanted. A short bar with a window behind it has another tapper in conversation with people seated on stools drinking this and that. In all, the room is about a third full with roughly 30 people in clumps here and there reliving the days. The majority are towns folk with 7 travelers intermixed, except 4 that sit around a small table in the upper section. ((Map up for Main Room))

Postavi?ka stands by the bar chatting. His hair is wavy and he has dark brown eyes. He wears a simple cotton shirt, cloth trousers and dark leather boots. Occasionally he goes around the tables and collects empty tankards. ((A portrait of Postavi?ka is shown as my avatar))

Evelyn turns to the tapper by the door and says "Sir, do you know of a temple nearby that is dedicated to all gods? Or is there a room in your tavern i could use in private, for an hour? I must perform my daily prayers." [if the party go for the big private room, and there are no other options, Evelyn will simply go there to pray for an hour]

Resin, the tapper by the door, thinks for a moment before answering Evelyn. "Miro, he's the owner, has a garden on the roof. He might let you up if you smile at him. Else, most of the temples are around the main square. Surely, thems got room to spare."

"Thank you sir," Evelyn replies and walks to the bar, brushing back her silver hair to look more presentable. She stands at the end of the bar and patiently waits for the man behind it to approach her with her drink request then says, "Good sir might you be Miro?" [assuming he says yes] She continues by saying, "My name is Evelyn and I am staying at your inn. I am a priestess and I'm looking for a quiet place to pray that will allow me to watch the setting sun. I have been told that you have a garden on the roof. Such a place would be perfect. Could i possibly appeal to you that I be allowed to pray there? it will only be for a short time." She gives him what she hopes is a dazzling smile and softens her look.

Tathza was relieved to finally be back in a town. He would feel all the better once he was clean. Aknma was taking in the smells and wanted to go off and find something tasty once he was clean as well. Tathza reminded himself that he needed to gather information and would have to do so after he cleaned up. "I would prefer the larger room but it makes little diffence to me. Do you have a place to bath?"

After dropping off her bags in the same room as Evelyn, she left her alone as it was approaching time for her prayers and she knew that just like lack of sleep if Eve didn't prayer to her god she would be mighty cranky. Mitra made her way to the bar and ploped herself down on one of the stools, it had been a long and uncomfortable journey, not just the bumpy wagon ride. When asked by the barman what she would like she just asked for a glass of milk, she would wait for eve to return before having a meal that night with her.

Postavi?ka looks towards Evelyn as her striking beauty catches his eye, but he plays it cool, she is an outsider and by her looks a rather different individual to the average foreign lady that may frequent his place of home and work. He listens with interest to what she says at the bar.

The barman was indeed not Miro, although he chuckled deeply at Evelyn's assumption. "Miro be the fat dwarf in the kitchens. He's the reason for good business. Dwarf can cook he can," the barman says. "Name's Manska. Just go through the door there behind me and look for a raging cook," he continued pointing her the way, while turning to Mitra whose voice nearly interrupts him. "Got goat's milk. And a wee bit of cow's, but it smells a bit rank. Most'en the cows have had it hard with the heat." Evelyn, should she go into the kitchen, finds a fairly fat dwarf taking a large drink of dark beer while sitting on a stool in the corner. He's wearing a white apron covered in the night's kitchen work and looks tired but bright. He's sees Evelyn and perks up, standing and trying to brush most of the cuttings from his front. "Aye, lady," he starts on hearing Evelyn's request. "Come, I'll take you up." He climbs a spiral staircase just outside the kitchen door and takes a silver key from his shirt to open the locked iron door at the top. The garden, planted in numerous wooden boxes, sit on the roof of the kitchen. It is a marvel despite the heat. Flowering plants and vegetables abound. A small fountain bubbles under tall tomato bushes and a wild blackberry bush trellised high. "I'll leave you be ma'am," Miro says politely. "But the peace has a price," he says with a twinkle. "Once dinner's done and the heat's gone you promise to let me show you the gems of my labor, aye." "Little garden she is," Miro says. "Wee bit of trouble to keep her going with the heat, but she's mine.

The tapper looks at Tathza. "Certaintly man. The public baths are just around the corner. Hot and cold. Kindra keeps the place clean and bright. Ask for her and she'll take care of you just don't bring any weapons. No weapons allowed in the public baths. You can check'em at the door, but we being so close and all...." The tapper collects the fees and adds a gold piece for stabling the horses and storing the wagons. "Miro will run a ledger of your expenses if you want. Or you can pay as you go," he adds as everyone gets ready to settle in.

She nods along with the barman listening to the words but barely focusing on the conversation. "Well then I guess goat's milk will do. Thanks." She turned with her back to the bar and looked at the people around the bar. They all looked like nameless faces in a sea of faces. Those she did recognise were busy enough. She shuffled on the bar stool trying to find some comfort on the hard wood, it was slightly more comfortable than the wagon and at least it didn't rock and bounce around. She noticed a gnome looking at Evelyn as she spoke to the barman. [i:3lz9n841]Great another admirer that I will have to keep an eye on.[/i:3lz9n841] She sighed these men were getting more tiring by the day, but by far the worst so far had been Val his constant staring, blushing and eye contact was beginning to grate, either Eve would have to put a stop to it or Mitra would find a more perminant solution to the problem. The image of the elf pinned to the wall of the room by pure force of will, begging for his life as she ripped trendrils of brain away with her mind. The thought was... satisfactory.

Tathza moves quickly after hearing the man's words but does not run. He checks in his so called weapons and moves for a cool bath to get rid of the sweat. Aknma sneaks in as well to enjoy the water. He brought down his body until only his head was exposed with his silver hair floating behind him. Finally some peace, but he had to admit it was funny how these humans bothered with his weapons considering he was a wizard. After his body had cooled he made his way to the warm baths and allowed himself to relax. The work was not badly done but he still wished for a more lexurious bath. "Better then nothing I suppose" He would have to leave soon and gather information around town as well as see if he could pick up some useful items. He doubted he would be able to find a lizard mount. These horses had no grace in their movements, lizard mounts would move from side to side at great speeds but they would not rise and fall as these surface mounts did. But for the time being he could enjoy the warm waters and sweet peace, if only for a time.

Kindra Bathhouse was certainly well keep, albeit small. The floor was white and blue tiles. A meandering patchwork. Baths were mostly small. Singles and slightly larger that could, perhaps, if necessary fit three. Baths were separated from each other by panes of wood or opaque glass and towels were sprinkled about the house, folded neatly and stacked on pedestals of stone. Tathza simmered in a warm bath. It was not all quiet. Catches of conversation filtered about, mostly distorted by the sounds of water and the dividers. Folk were used to the baths. "........says he saw it. Large as cow he says. Black like some great beetle............" ".........couldn't do it today. I'm sorry........." "But you said you loved me. Such a fool am I," splashes of someone leaving and muffled crying. "Quiet. Jordan got the issue. Three ten suns. No less. Night comes on the life of flies."

Tathza catchs a view bits of conversation. Wonders the meaning of one but dismisses it for another time. He leaves the bath house clean and armed again. Tathza wonders what the town had to offer him. Knowledge (local) [dice:2hx6gyur]1d20+6[/dice:2hx6gyur] (Information about the town)

Prejete. Overall, the town is somewhat unremarkable, unless of course you need a miner, a miners gear, or things that come out of the earth from below. The town is an industrious sort with less seediness than most. People work hard and sleep well. The Bored Patron offers wrestling for prizes on rest days. The north west side of town is less reputable. Things could be found. The Mayor rules with a firm hand. In the main square on most nights, people mill about. Jugglers, fire breathers, and singers entertain. Townies play games for little money on tables set up on the east end of the square. The town population is around 4,000.

Tathza makes his way to the north west to see if he could find any information before the night became to long. He wonders if their will be any information to be found or stores. The more shifty sections of towns normally made a great place to visit and more so when you were a drow. He made sure to keep Aknma's nose up for anything, after all he was no fool. Purphaps if their was a pub he would be able to over hear a few things of interest over a drink if anything else. Tathza spoke softly in Infernal "Look at the little ones run and run and run, so quickly their time is done, but once they burn to dust and take a taste of that, oh my how much fun"

umslopogaas sit in the bar at a table with bollo under his feet both looking very out of place. umposlogaas looks very uncomfortable in the unatral suroundings and dosnt seem to know what the inn is even for

Zinnaella sat quietly through the trip to town, not really having anything to talk about or add as of yet. She instead spent her time thinking about Tathza's words and trying to work any possible way in her mind for this group to actually get along and function together. [i:3mqrzbsr]Tathza may not realize it yet, or maybe just not want to admit it, but I'm afraid that we will need everyone to get this solved.[/i:3mqrzbsr] It wasn't that she knew any more of these Hidden Riders than anyone else, but she knew how annoyed Delas Chce was getting - and failure was not going to be an option here. [i:3mqrzbsr]I'm no leader, but I might be able to be the glue - at least to start.[/i:3mqrzbsr] Zinnaella followed along with the group all the way to The Lonely Miner. Very little had caught her attention until they entered and she saw the main room. She looked over it for a few minutes, wondering what it must be like to serve at a place with such a large serving area. Most of the short conversation passed by her, but the mention of prices for the rooms did catch her ears, as did Tathza's request for the larger, and obviously much more expensive, room. [i:3mqrzbsr]Well, we would have the privacy then, away from others.[/i:3mqrzbsr] "The larger room would be nice, if we all combine our money," she meekly offers to those still around. "And we would have only ourselves to worry about," she adds - indicating the added privacy compared to the Wanderers' rooms. She then adds with a halfhearted shrug, "Either way though, it beats the outdoors." Zinnaella then takes a seat next to Mitra since Evelyn and Tathza had left, making sure the other girl had a friendly face around. Zinnaella didn't try to start a conversation, hoping her presence would be enough for now as she took more appraising looks around the establishment and the arrangements of the seating - and of course of the current patrons. She made sure not to stare at any of them, but included them in her glances, checking for any that were checking out her or her companions. If any were noted, she would try to judge their interest based on how they were looking, reacting, or even by how they held their mug of ale. ((Spot check for noticing interested parties, then Sense Motive to well, determine intent of any paying extra attention to her companions, if needed.))[dice:3mqrzbsr]1d20+4,1d20+4[/dice:3mqrzbsr]

Evelyn takes in the garden, eyes wide, truly impressed. "This place is a marvel indeed!" she exclaims softy. She turns to face Miro and says, "Thank you Miro, this will be perfect for my prayers." and bows to him. "Of course I would be honoured to join you after dinner is done. I would be gladdened to hear how you have helped life thrive in such difficult times. I will be here for an hour then you will find me in the main tap room." she smiles. She bows again graciously, then steps into the garden viewing but not touching the wonderful flowers. She walks to an open area where she can kneel and once again proceeds with her prayer ritual. [if not disturbed during that time] After her prayers are complete she once again looks around the garden, marvelling at the flowers and surrounds. [If Miro has not returned, she returns to the main tap room and looks for the others - will look for Mitra first there]

Mitra smiled to Zin as she sat next to her. She was at least good company, althrough she seemed worried more so than just the normal worry of hunting down criminals in the name of a quest. Because she had already contacted Zin before it was now easy to link there minds to speak mental thoughts. She reached out at the mind next to her and felt the consciousness, stroking it gently and calmly till it excepted her link. [i:225xjzbw]Why are you so nervous? Your mind is racing, your heart is pounding. It is only a tavern, and your comments about only having ourselves to worry about, while true the room is expensive and just because it is a large room doesn't mean it will fit all of us. Besides it does not mean we all want to share with each other. I for one would like a night away from the others, even if it's just us three women it would be nice to be away from the men for a while. Besides there is only so much arrogance I can take in one room and some of them fill two rooms all to themselves.[/i:225xjzbw] At the last comment Zin can hear something a kin to a chuckle. Mitra picked up her glass of milk in two hands and sipped it blinking her hair out of her eyes.

After Evelyn leaves he thinks to himself, well that was one fine looking lady, although he also thinks, she probably won't be interested in a gnome, most non-gnome women are not interested in gnome men. He thinks he won't waste his energies on her as there were plenty of lovely gnome ladies around and he really prefers his women smaller than himself. He had never had much troubles attracting those lovely gnome ladies and had kinda got a reputation for it amongst the gnome community of this town. Postavi?ka moves around the tables collecting empty tankards. As he checks the far table ((table 11)) he says to the man sitting there "Hi, you are new to this town? That's a healthy looking wolf you have, animals are always welcome here, should I get a bowl of water and perhaps see if they have a couple of bones to chew on ?"

umposlogaas replies "that is very kind of you stranger! my name is umposlogaas its is true i am new to this town to be honest i have never been in a town! how ppl can live all cooped up like this is surprising to me!" "please what is your name, please join me! i would like some one who could explain the ways of this strange place, i would be most greatfull!" "and im sure bollo here" he says pionting to the wolf would enjoy your kind offer of water and bones"

[u:34zhxmh9]Tathza.[/u:34zhxmh9] The night is yet young, the sun newly to its resting place and Tathza wanders to the northwest quarter. He circuits past the main square, never nearing it for a full view. The houses change as he walks into the quarter. Less well kept or repaired. Men and woman who perform the more menial jobs for the town or the brunt labor for the solitary mine still functioning. Early in the evening it is noisy and Tathza can see over crowded for the size of the houses. Laundry is being pulled in and people settle for meals on curbs, front steps, or rickety balconies to get out from the heat of their rooms. A number of taverns, if they could be called that, are already open. A few sell beer and mead by simply passing out what is wanted from open windows or holes cut in walls. Men who know each other cool off and boys run, playing their own games. Makeshift tables are set up near such places. "Ae, you look like a interestin fellaw," an old man says as Tathza passes. "Sit'own for a few rounds of dice. Bit a bettin?" [u:34zhxmh9]Zinnaella[/u:34zhxmh9] The room seems harmless enough. A few heads turn Umslopagaas's way when he enters, but it is the wolf that get looks. There seems no undue attention placed upon the group. Surely, individuals look and gauge, especially the handsomer members, but overall it is polite inquiry. Tathza is not present. The barman, Manska, asks you what you'd like, if anything, drink or meat, bread, mead or ale. [u:34zhxmh9]Evelyn[/u:34zhxmh9] Miro does not return. The garden, although small, is remarkable. [u:34zhxmh9]All[/u:34zhxmh9] The night moves and the Lonely Miner is lively with good cheer. Many of the towns folk wish news from elsewhere and as their drink gets flowing approach and make introductions. Seems Miro keeps a friendly place. Later, a very large half-orc enters and is hailed somewhat ruefully by the crowd. Seems Miro employs a bouncer later in the evening, mainly to keep less desirables away and occasionally to ferry the too drunk patron home. The bouncer settles at table 8, lays out some paper and starts chewing on a writing instrument, now and then making scratches on the parchment. Miro, now that cookin is done, begins to mingle. He's a fun sort, yet there is respect in the eyes of those who know him. His arms are strong and his demeanor easy, polite. He makes his way most if not all those in his tavern, having a small word here or there, a loud back slapping laugh, or simple pleasantries. He approaches Umslopagaas with slower feet and stands a bit wide of his table or area, keeping an eye on the dog, but greets him warmly none the less. Miro banters with Mitra. Asking whom she is with and to stay safe. If any bother her just yell and he'll set them straight. He talks with Zinnaella, if there is a moment. Asks her name, where she from, and whether she has any news to sell or trade, maybe for a pint of Mountain Dark or Spring Pale. He's got a few casks left downstairs. And eventually, stories are told. A singer or two stop in a tell taller tales. One about the deep mine whence gold and ore flowed at a price of the miner's souls. And seemingly in jest, a song about a full round dwarf and the battle of Turan against the marauding Green Kings men from the sea. Most know the Green king, that war fresher, no more than forty years old. The long ships by the dozens beaching in the west and placing his army on the shores of Turan. The song is well sung, but it would seem Miro had business in the kitchen for he leaves near its beginning and returns some time later during the singing of a bawdy version of Spring Mistress, both hands full of tankards As the night winds down, Miro approaches Evelyn. "Priestess," he says, but adds nothing else. It is a half question. Something one would say to another when they know the rest.

Tathza looked at the old man and made a choice. "Well I am not into betting all that much but a friendly game would be fine if we could talk of recent news to help pass the time as well as keep me from being to sore at losing" Tathza luaghed "So what is the game and what are the rules" All information came at a price and Tathza doubted this would cost him much. Also a game or two would improve his mood about the state of things for him at the moment.

"Good. A gameful loser. Those are the best," The old man says laying three cards down in front of each of them. "10 coppers per card, for now. Best three wins. So. where you from Blue skin," he says counting the coppers in front of him, but leaving Tathza to turn first. "Spent my life here in Prejete. Miner I was. Terrible weather aye? Seen some like it before, but not at this time of year. Oddly late aye?" "What you travel for?"

Tathza eye's the cards, then turns the middle one up slowly. "I am just coming thru with a group on business with some of the vagnabonds that have taken to raiding once to often. As for the weather I know little of it, why do you consider it odd?"

Postavi?ka had gone to get bollo a bowl of water and some bones from the kitchen. Postavi?ka sits down introduces himself and has a drink with umposlogaas and says "I help out around here, it's nearly always full of locals in here but we get others too from time to time. The town it's full of down to earth folk and many of the men work in the mines. People here can be hard to get to know but once you do they are solid and can be relied upon. I'm yearning to follow a life away from here and to travel some.

Val enters the lonely Miner after wandering a little bit through the town. As he scans the room, he notices that some companions are missing, one of them being Evelyn. [i:1qi7hh2g]Mitra should know where I can find Eve.[/i:1qi7hh2g] He approches Mitra and asks her: "Do you know where Evelyn is ? She said she wanted to discuss something with me."

Evelyn stands up from her prayers and looks out to the town beyond the garden, seeing the warm glow of light of the windows nearby, to the slowly emerging stars twinkling in the starry night. It is a beautiful sight and she revels in its presence. Breathing deeply she relaxes her body and breathes again. She leaves the garden and carefully turns the key in the lock to shut the iron door. Making her way down the spiral staircase, she walks into the kitchen and hands the key back to the dwarf. "Thank you Miro, until later then." she says with a smile. She enters the taproom and scans the room to look for anyone she might recognise and quickly spots Mitra and Zinnaella sitting across the room. Val enters and walks up to Mitra to ask her something, though she cannot hear the words. She walks toward them with a spring in her step and addresses them. "Isnt it amazing that in the least likely of places, the most beautiful things can be seen." she says softly with a smile on her face.

The old man looks at Tathza card and murmurs. "Dark Knight," he says somewhat slowly. "Peculiar." [attachment=1:1wrekg0b]darkknight.jpg[/attachment:1wrekg0b] He turns his card over. "Sun." [attachment=0:1wrekg0b]sun.jpg[/attachment:1wrekg0b] "So, it seems you tell the truth at least, but Sun beats the Dark Knight. So far, I'm ahead with two to go." The old man scratches his beard awaiting Tathza to turn another card. He seems interested in the drow. "Odd. Well, weather like this is nothing new, even if the heat is a story its own. Felt similar I have, but never this late in the season. With it so close to fall harvest, the winter could be difficult. I've seen famine and its son war. Nothing to shake at. At least the Mayor's nervous. Why else built a trench before such a laughable wall and underground storehouses to stock up on food." "So, your after raiders are ya."

The nerve of the elf to walk up to her and ask so blatent a question. She forgets herself for a moment and Zin can feel the anger that Mitra is feeling through the mind link. [i:ts9s0go8]I should pop his head for being so in fatuated with my love.[/i:ts9s0go8] She is about to speak her mind when Evelyn bounces up so care free and calm. She looks to Eve and smiles "It's true in all the worst places we have been to, there has always been some beauty to be found." She looks to Val and raises an eye brow and her next words are said with vemon "Val would like a word with you about visions. Then maybe afterwards we can finally have dinner. Now go have your secret words." She turns to Zin with her back to the two of them. [i:ts9s0go8]I'm sorry, sometimes my temper gets the better of me, and it is difficult when every man looks at her with the same eyes. I love her but sometimes she doesn't understand, what it is like.[/i:ts9s0go8] A tear rolls down her cheek and she shuts her eyes.

[u:3h0zednw]All[/u:3h0zednw] You may enter conversation with another. After most have eaten, there are many who introduce themselves and ask you name and travels, except the four in the top section, who mostly drink and smoke some and throw a little dice. Should you wish to extend a conversation in RP with an NPC, simply post your beginning end of the conversation and I'll take it further. Miro greets you all, as do the tappers Manska and Resin. Miro's kitchen help, a young girl named Cervene, also joins the room once most of the clean-up work it done. The bouncer mostly writes and reads a from a small green book. He looks up when the doors open and occasionally to scan the crowd, marking Miro every time. Tathza is delayed. Evelyn, once all the RP you wish to accomplish is done then please play out Miro's request as I earlier posted.

Tathza feels something from the old man. He was more then he let on and not only his words gave him a sense of that. He had Aknma take a breath to make sure. Knowledge (arcana) [dice:38ny7efu]1d20+8[/dice:38ny7efu] "Yes in a sense I am after them, but I dont think the winter will be to bad if you have the right people to help. After all I have run into a druid and they know much about how to get things to grow by magical means and not. But famine does bring out war as I have already begun to see. But then again if people work togather and deal with each other fairly then the burden can be lessened for all. And what pretell is the story about the heat, has it brought about this kind of event before and so is a natural cycle of things here? If so then the people should have prepared for its return. I hope my luck improves I dont like losing right off the bat" Tathza chuckles Tathza slowly turns another card over. (-.- that dice is evil beyond measure)

Evelyn looks to Mitra then Val. The harsh edge in Mitra's voice makes up her mind and she says to Val. "Val would you mind if we had our discussion later or another time? I'm rather hungry and what we need to discuss needs to be when both our minds are fresh." Squeezing his hand gently she gives him an apologetic smile and walks to a seat at the end of the bar. Trying to keep the atmosphere lighthearted she says softly to the two girls, "Well what food delights can be had in this establishment, I hear the cook is very good." Evelyn tries to keep the conversation between Zinn and Mitra lighthearted, occasionally whispering to Mitra in a jovial conspiracy manner [if she lets her]. She tells the girls about the garden and her later appointment with Miro when finally the evening draws to a close and Miro approaches her she responds, "I'm ready," she says with a smile and allows Miro to lead her away.

Tathza looks closely at the man. He's old like a gnarled tree. Whiskers thin on his skin and the hair on his head thinner, so that his white head skin gleams through. If he is anything but old, Tathza can not tell, but the cards he uses are not ones normally used for games. Either way, the world closes about them and the life around them dims. Tathza turns a card. "Universe," says the old man's gravely voice. [attachment=1:151ghg8p]universe.jpg[/attachment:151ghg8p] "My card," he says turning his with a quick hand. "Hanged Man. Black Knight and Universe against Sun and the Hanged Man. Seems even we be." [attachment=0:151ghg8p]hanged.jpg[/attachment:151ghg8p] "Fairness is a story for children. If life was fair, then we'd need not sneak about with," he pauses for a second. "Weapons. And war would be unknown." "People are not mystics. They live and plan for the common, not the unexpected."

Althrough Evelyn out of kindness turned Val away, Mitra still feels things are unresolved between them. She speaks quietly, and not often. Creating (even through Evelyn tries her best) an air of tension. She is also upset at the fact the young guard hasn't appeared either so she obviously failed there as well. Eventually the dwarf turns up to whisk Eve away, at which point Mitra huffs loudly and gutrelly. "Fine, go with the dwarf then, I'm tired and going to bed any way. Maybe I'll see you later." She storms off acting more like a teenager than the young girl the others have witnessed so far.

Tathza kept his body and face normal but his mind was racing. He could feel something but not explain it. "Well I will not disagree with your words, but if we learn from our mistakes and from the past we will not be doomed to repeat it. So what would seem unexpected is in fact known and so can be common. After all one knows that in a desert their is little water and so they bring some and prepare for it but the same would not be true by those that live by water. As for weapons well only a fool would think that all they meet in this world or any other to be kind and gentle beings. I must admit I find this little talk of ours enjoyable and I have netheir gained or lost anything. Do you wish to play again or have you grown tired of this game?"

Eve looks on and watches Mitra storm off with a helpless look on her face, then sighs and continues on with Miro.

Val looks quite surprised at Eve and Mitra's reactions. He asks Zin: "Did I miss something ?"

as Postavi?ka sit down and inroduces him self, umposlogaas thanks him for bollo who hastily tucks in! " the people here do seem happy" he says " though i dont know what amine is i assume that it is a happy place for people to live so close together" "my self have left my home to travel and wonder the lands though i often whish i coud go home! you should be carfull for what you whish Postavi?ka you might get it," umposlogaas shruggs "but it is good to travel and see what the world is like, i never would have seen this town and it wonders if i havnt left my village, im here with some people i met on the road and im traverling with them for the while till the spirits put me where thay want me" he says while pointing out the party whith his hand" if you would like to hear there storys i will intruduce you!

Miro leads Evelyn back to the roof-top garden. He asks her where she knelt or sat when praying and bids her to sit for a moment. Ignoring Evelyn, he goes about checking the plants in the immediate vicinity, humming slightly. He checks the stems and newly forming buds. Close inspection he reserves for the leaves. Each plant he chooses a few leaves and caresses them in between his thumb and forefinger. In the end, he bends and collects a bit of soil in the palm of his hands and rubs it in. Satisfied he turns back to Evelyn. "Seems your good enough," Miro say. "Leaves still green. No spots or yellowin. Earth still healthy." He looks at her long enough. Thoughtful. There is no greed of flesh in his eyes. "The sun is too bright. Men get nervous and a priestess of Vecer in my rooms," he waves a hand to forestall any question. "Not much misses me priestess. My ears are large. So, who has need of you I wonder and for what purpose." He lets the question hang. It is obvious. Miro had no plans of showing you the best of his work by moon-light.

"Mistakes are costly," the old man responds. "The price is somewhat high at times. Higher than most are willing to pay." He waves his hand at Tathza in mock annoyance. "You think too much drow," he continues naming Tathza for the first time. "Talk in circles. Uncommon to common by fancy use of words. Fact is most lives are common and if they becomes else it usually bodes the ill. Turn your last card." Tathza turns his last card. The old man whispers low, his hand scratching his chin. "An unexpected development." He looks at Tathza's card a long time while tapping the top of his own. Then calmly he turns his over too. Tathza's Card [attachment=1:1zepuo4p]death.jpg[/attachment:1zepuo4p] Old Man's [attachment=0:1zepuo4p]magician.jpg[/attachment:1zepuo4p] "These men you are after must be strong or your not traveling the road you think," the old man says standing. "Thank you for sitting and sharing your spirit," he continues holding Tathza's eyes and sweeping the cards up deftly with one hand. "Keep the money. You won this round. Sun, Hanged Man, The Magus against Dark Knight, the Universe, and Death. Mayhaps we meet again." Before Tathza can reply, the old man turns and walks away into an alley between two buildings. Tathza can follow, but it would be fruitless. ((Tathza gains 30cp))

Evelyn turns slowly to face him, her expression remains calm but she wonders if she is in any danger from him [sense motive on is stance, facial expression and tone of voice] [dice:16x17pq7]20+3[/dice:16x17pq7] "You are indeed right I am a Priestess of Vecer, though I do not hide that fact." she says softly. "But before I can answer any of your questions I would need to know why this would concern you and why you think I should tell you?"

Evelyn knows without doubt that Miro is no enemy, at least for this moment. His stance is easy. His hands open. He sits next to her. "Been her a while, I have. Saved my money. Bought the land when this place was small. Dug the earth with my own hands with a shovel instead of a spear tip. To reach water instead of bury warrior dead. Built a big place for me even when this town didn't have the numbers. A proper hall." Miro looks at her closely. He is sitting within reach. "I'm no fool priestess. My axe is under the bar and a man be craven to suppose that I've always just cooked. Nervous men make foolish choices. Information is one's best defense."

Tathza has the feeling he just had a brush with something powerful. He hated being left in the dark but he knew the old man's words to be true regardless of anything else. Tathza speaks to the stars "My the night seems to have brought out interesting things." He had gained more then simple coins. Their enemies were more then what they seemed and powerful on top of that. He knew the cards were more then a game. If it was what he thought it to be then the sun was a symbol of the heat, the hanged man could be mean someone's death or crime to be punished, the magus would most likely be him or a powerful spellcaster of the arcane that would fight a dark knight. Tathza hoped the dark knight was not truely as the card had said. Tathza was no fool and fighting a dark knight was beyond the power of many and more so of one alone. The universe could mean more then just a city or region, it could mean a world or even many worlds would be effected and at stake. Tathza shuddered for such things were well beyond him and nothing short of beings of legend could shoulder such a task. Finally their was death and that was of little concern for all things died. Only the death of worlds and gods truely mattered to him. Tathza again hoped that it was in the case of himself or his group for the death of a single god or world could lead to true chaos and dustruction. Tathza shook his head and let it all go in a deep breath. Let all be damned he would take things as they came and dwell on such things no more. Their mission was greater then it seemed and that was a fact. Tathza would buy a scroll or two and return to the inn. He had much to consider and hear what the others were able to gather if anything when he returned. (Let me know if I can buy any scrolls even if I can or I cant I return to the groups room and wait for any of the others)

She looks at Miro trying to read his eyes as he speaks. Can she trust him? could he become a good informant, or is he simply one of the hidden riders stooges trying to play her. She cursed herself for not being more 'worldly' in these matters 'perhaps in a few more years time' she thought to herself. Common sense told her to be silent, but there was something about the dwarf's words that made her want to blurt it all out. She decides on a different tack to test the water of trust, "You are right knowledge is the best form of defence and I wish to believe you are the kind hearted dwarf that you appear to be, but in this world full of dangers you understand it can be hard to know who to trust. So I propose an agreement, if you can aid me with curiosities of information that are out of the ordinary to your normal bar chat. I will in return look out for your interests and inform you of what I can when I can." she continues, "you are right we are on a quest, a simple bribe of one of the gate guards will confirm such information. As of yet I cannot tell you more, for I do not know you. But I can tell you if we are successful it may increase your trade." "If we are in agreement, I will send messages to you of things that may concern you, in return for information from you." She is not used to make such bargains, but she hopes she has made an amicable arrangement.

"Prudent and cautious. Good. At least you've some sense," he says standing to stretch. "Come look at these beauties," he continues as if nothing has passed between them, as if there is no hanging agreement, or concerns of the times to come. "I nursed them all the way from seed......... And around the garden Miro takes Evelyn. Showing her this and that. Letting her smell the differences in certain soils and teaching her how to keep tomato blight away with a little milk in the morning. In the end, he guides her down in the dark after locking the gate with his silver key. "Good night priestess." ((The tavern closes. After wrapping up his parchments, the bouncer heaves a too drunk man over his shoulder to take him home. Please continue any RP as you wish, i.e. in tavern or room side. I will post a new morning before I go to sleep.))

Zinnaella looks around surprised for a moment, before realizing that Mitra was simply speaking to her through thoughts once again. Zinn then gently smiled at the realization, and at Mitra's thoughts sent to her. Zinn can't help but smirk as well at the end of Mirta's words. [i:279g8222]It is not the quest per se, but more the group. I feel that we are going to need everyone, but there are so many divisions within our group, and we only just got started. Maybe a night apart would be good as well, this is the first time I've ever dealt with a group of strangers like this one. Perhaps as we go on, we will truly learn if we can work together or not.[/i:279g8222] At the barman's question, Zinnaella simply orders some bread to munch on, not really feeling like eating. She also chats cordially with Miro, giving her name and traveller as occupation. "I do wish I had news or wares to trade good dwarf, but I do not," she tells him, giving him a shy smile. Before she can worry about making further conversation with Miro, she feels a wave of anger wash over her - although she knows it's not her own. She quickly looks back over, seeing Val there. Zinnaella hears Mitra's plan, but before she can think to respond Evelyn reappears from her prayers. Things calm down for a moment, but only temporarily. [i:279g8222]I.. uh... I don't know what to say. I know that Evelyn cares for you as well, I've only been around you two a couple days and can already tell. Maybe you two can talk some tonight, it would do good.[/i:279g8222] Zinnaella then turned her focus away from the other two women as they tried to speak softly with one another, but the mind link that Mitra had created kept Zinnaella feeling Mitra's thoughts, and more importantly - her frustrations. Even as Mitra storms off, Zinnaella feels Mitra's frustration and anger more than her own feelings, so when Val asks if he missed anything - Zinn can't help but snap back with, "If you don't know what you did wrong, I'm sure not going to tell you." However, as soon as she says it Zinnaella realizes just what she said and why. So she quickly lowers her head and continues, "Sorry Val - that was unfair. However, it is not my place to get involved - but I suggest that you give Mitra, and Evelyn, a little more room over the next couple days. I know it's unfair to ask and likely makes little sense, but there it is."

"Well, the fact is that Evelyn wanted to speak with me about something urgent..." Val doesn't know what to do and orders an ale. "What a strange bunch of women you are..."

[PreMitra storming out] [In response to the first message] [i:1nzga5l3]I know your worries, there are a lot of people within this group and sometimes trust can be hard to come by, but when the crunch comes everyone will pull their weight, cause otherwise they will end up in a worse situation. Some of the argogance within the group needs to be played down. We have done this all before, and the best way to learn is sink or swim.[/i:1nzga5l3] [In response to the second message] [i:1nzga5l3]Sometimes it is just hard going. I know she loves me but she doesn't seem to realise the pain she can cause by inticing these men. Maybe I will find the courage to tell her tonight, or maybe she will appologise, or maybe we will just make it up to each other in some other way.[/i:1nzga5l3] Zin can get the feeling of what Mitra is illuding to but thankfully for now no images flash into her mind.

[quote="Evil Wabit":1a2m0r7n][i:1a2m0r7n]We have done this all before, and the best way to learn is sink or swim.[/i:1a2m0r7n][/quote:1a2m0r7n]Zinnaella just nods in agreement. [quote="Evil Wabit":1a2m0r7n][i:1a2m0r7n]Maybe I will find the courage to tell her tonight, or maybe she will appologise, or maybe we will just make it up to each other in some other way.[/i:1a2m0r7n][/quote:1a2m0r7n]Zinnaella blushes slightly and turns away, focusing on her bread. [quote="Kurzio":1a2m0r7n]Val doesn't know what to do and orders an ale. "What a strange bunch of women you are..."[/quote:1a2m0r7n]Zinnaella is unable to suppress a grin. "You don't know the half of it." She finishes her bread and waits for everyone to return safely before heading to bed herself.

Evelyn follows Miro around the garden, listening intently to all he has to say, asking questions on how such a wonderous feat was achieved. She doesn't bring up their previous discussion, allowing him time to raise the topic but when he doesn't she stands confused. 'are we in agreement or not' she muses to herself, 'is this part of a test or is something else going through that dwarf's mind.' She had presented an opportunity to talk with him privately by asking a favour of him, he had not searched her out. Yet would he off if circumstances had played differently. Of course she did not know. But feeling there was an opportunity slowly passing when Miro bids her good night she says in her usual soft tone, "Thank you Miro, it is a wonderful garden and I have learned many new things about the nurturing of life, which I thank you for." She continues, "But I am confused as to where we stand on our previous discussion. Where you merely asking me out of curiosity or do you wish to build up a mutual trust so that information gained can be shared?" [regardless of his answer she says,] " I believe you are an honest dwarf so will tell you this." her eyes harden and she feels emboldened as she thinks of her faith in her god as she speaks, "You are right men should be nervous, what is happening in our skies is not natural, left unchecked will lead to only one conclusion...death." She bows graciuosly and takes her leave. [unless Miro's response incurs further interaction] Evelyn makes her way back to the taproom and realises she should find out more about the dwarf. 'But how to find out?' She thinks to herself. She was not trained for such information gathering and quickly realised she would need someone's help.... Tathza, 'Urgh no! not him' she thinks, 'he is as approachable as a sword in the dark. then who?' ..'Zinnaella ofcourse' She is also our guide, perhaps she might know of him from previous dealings and she is far more approachable...and likeable.' Stepping into the taproom she is pleased to see Zinnaella still there waiting, eating some bread. She walks over to her and sits down next to her. Val is also there and she gives him a smile of acknowledgement. She gestures Val leans in close, as she trust him also, and whispers to Zinnaella, "What do you know of Miro?"

Zinnaella shakes her head slightly, those not paying close attention would likely miss it but it was enough for Evelyn and Val to notice. "Sorry Evelyn, I've never worked outside Belfor so I know nothing. I, uh, could try to find some information - but I really am not very good at it. Is there a reason to worry, or are you just making sure?" ((later)) After they finish the discussion on Miro and head upstairs, Zinnaella holds Evelyn back a little and whispers to her before they head up the stairs to bed.

"that's ok Zinn" Evelyn smiles. "Perhaps you could mention Miro to Tathza for me? I'm not sure if he likes me much as we did get off on the wrong foot but i suspect he would listen to you more." As they leave and Zinn pulls back Eve, she waits patiently to hear what Zinnaella wishes to tell her. [we can discuss here or do an in character chat via pms - depending on what you want others to know]

"I will check, and see what we can find, but in the morning. We've all had a long day of travel." ((Sent pm already, although everyone should be able to guess the subject matter. :p))

In and out between his garden, Miro talks occassionally looks out at the street. "Priestess, an agreement from me to you I imagine is the first step to mutual trust. It is odd, I agree. Times bring changes in things like trust. I've open my eyes thinking to find death many times only to look into the face of a chosen one of Vecer. Back to the line and my comrades. I may have plenty of scars, but my skin is still warm for it. Else, I'd of brought up the drow, the thief, or the wild man to enter into a bargain. Figure, if I'm due for a crossing, might as well be from Vecer." "Standing arm to arm with shields and swords teaches that Trust is a choice. I've made mine."

Evelyn listens intently to the dwarf before she replies "If it pleases you Miro, I will include you in my next prayers. I will ask that vecer show you favour when your time is due, and lead you to your afterlife." She bows and bids him goodnight.

The Lonely Miner wakes. The kitchen has set bread and smoked meat upon the tables for guests. A few town folk breeze through sharing coffee and laughs. Preparations are being made for a celebration in some secret. The buzz noticeably quiets when Miro enters the main room. "Bah," he mutters joining any of the group having an early start. "Every year whispers and secrets. Like I'm soft headed," he continues. "Tis my birthday. Manska has something in store to top last year. Get ur business done early and some rest. The evenings long," he finishes with a smile despite himself. ((The party has a meeting to arrange and anything else they'd likely do. Tathza has learned that the administrative offices open late morning. Work can be had in the main square and the song of men walking to the gate can be heard. Temples open and line the one edge of the main square.))

Tathza was waiting for the others to wake and speak with them. He needed to see if they had gathered any information and if not to advise them that they do. Also about the meeting with the mayor they would need to go to. Tathza wondered if he would get used to waiting on these humans and their long sleep.

umposlogaas wake up ealy as he would normaly in the forests and come down to see the food laid out which he prcedes to feed himself and bollo muttering to him self " this isnt really good foood for you bollo we need to get out of this town and and go hunting" seeing tathza he joins him and whishes him good morning ands will ask him what the party intend and where they are going trying to find out in a friendly way if he can helpthem in anyway

Mitra hadn't slept again instead focusing her mind a bit on the events of the night. She couldn't remember much of last night which was nothing knew there were so many thoughts and whispering voices going through her head. She had watched Eve sleep, the two had not really spoken to each other as Mitra had been pretending to sleep. The sunlight began to creep in through the window, so she knew Eve would be stiring soon. She slipped back into bed, and rested her body against her lover, feeling the rythmic rise and fall of her chest. Today was hopefully going to be a good day.

[i:1367f667]Tonight again...[/i:1367f667] They were more and more frequent but didn't make any sense, at least to him. [i:1367f667]Perhaps Eve would know something about it.[/i:1367f667] but he shakes this very thought out of his head. [i:1367f667]She seems to be occupied with Mitra, the fight and death of the bandits must have been a shock for her[/i:1367f667]

After her conversation with Zinnaella the night before she decided to retire for the evening and return to their room. As she steps quietly in, she hears the soft sound of breathing all around and hopes her companions are getting a well earned rest. She spies Mitra curled up under a blanket, and slides in beside her. Putting a protective arm around her, she listens to hear soft breathing and strokes her hair gently. Kissing her gently on the forehead. She settles down into the bed and her thoughts go from Mitra to Val and to other incidents of that day. She sleeps fitfully filled with all sorts of dreams, some seem prophetic while others are more carnal. The following morning she wakes up not feeling like she is rested, she is tired and uncomfortable, everything today seems to appear black. She senses Mitra getting back into the bed and a wave of calm washes over her. It takes some of the sting from her mood and she relaxes, not realising, she falls back to sleep.

Mitra strokes Eve's hair, playing gently with the locks as if they were thread. She spied some of the others struring and getting up so she gently whispered in Eve's ear "Time to get up sleepy head. We have to see another man about a princess's locket." She drapes her arm over the soft skin and blows air across Eve's ear. "Did you have a goodnight?" before Eve can answer Mitra follows on with "You were very restless last night, so I can only imagine you had some more dreams. Were these ones god inspired as well?" She watches as the drow and then the shaman get up and go down for what she can only imagine is breakfast.

Eve gives a yawn and stretches her body, then quickly pulls up her covers so as not too expose herself. In answer to Mitra's question she says softly, "I do not honestly know, I was Hidding in a hole like a rabbit. The baying of hounds in the distance. Searching for me. I was shivering , too afraid to move. I tried to burrow but i didnt think i would escape." "What could it mean?" Evelyn slips on an under garment, still under the covers. " I also spoke with Miro last night but learned little to nothing. I cannot tell if he is friend or foe." she fumbles for her dress and slips that too under the covers, totally aware there are men in the room. "Yes of course" she adds more brightly thanks to Mitra's soothing touch, "We shall look for this princess locket, even if she is a bit ugly." she winks at Mitra then gives her a hug. She climbs out of bed and stands up looking for her things, "Come on lets go have some breakfast, I hear Miro cooks a wonderful spread."

Zinnaella rises in the morning, blinking in the sunlight that streams in the window and shielding her eyes with a hand. [i:226gp8x5]Damn sun - always too bright.[/i:226gp8x5] Regardless, she rises and prepares for the day, then heads down for breakfast. As she heads down, she notices that Mitra and Evelyn are also beginning to stir so she gives them a friendly smile in passing. Downstairs, she finds Tathza and the wild man speaking with one another. Deciding this is the best chance she might have, she tries to move around to behind Tathza without him seeing her or hearing her. ((Move silently and Hide checks))[dice:226gp8x5]1d20+8,1d20+8[/dice:226gp8x5]

Mitra looks quizically at Eve "Rabbit in a hole? What is that all about?" She waits till Eve is finished getting dress then hearing that there is food on, the covers get thrown off and she jumps from the bed, rushing to the bowl of water in the corner of the room and splashing the water on her face, and running her hands though her hair. "Bloody knots." She turns to go back to her bag and get a brush out when she notices Evelyn's smile. She looks down at the fact she is currently stood in a room full of men naked. She squeels and rushes back to the pile of her clothes and quickly starts getting dressed before the others notice. Once she is clothed again she goes back to the bowl and washes her hair in the water, she squeezes out the drips, and then fishes a brush out of her bag. As they walk down the stairs she begins to brush her hair trying to get the knots out. "You don't think anyone saw do you Eve'y?"

" Don't worry," smiles Evelyn, "I'm sure they didnt." she reassures her and they enter the taproom. Seeing Zinnaella and Tathza together, she greets them with a smile and walks over to them. Addressing them both she asks," So what are our plans now?"

Tathza see's the wild human and greets hims. "Not the kind of awakening you are used to in wild I bet. But it is something new for you to learn from I am sure. I would ask you to find out what you can of recent events and anything else of importance. As well as your aid in our little adventure, after all it may lead to more new things for you to learn. If you agree then later you should come with the rest of us to meet the mayor. Your abilities would be most welcome." Tathza found this human to lack much of the short comings of his kin. Some found his kind to be barbaric but he found them to be pure or more so in his human then the fools he has dealt with so far. Tathza gets a warning from Aknma that something is coming from behind him. He turns quickly in a smooth motion with a hand out ready to unleash a spell. He see's Zin and is not pleased in the least. (Aknma's scent ability will pick you up regardless of silence or hiding unless you take steps to mask your scent)

[quote="OmniChaos":nz257txf](Aknma's scent ability will pick you up regardless of silence or hiding unless you take steps to mask your scent)[/quote:nz257txf] ((Aye, but Zinn wouldn't know that.)) Zinnaella looks surprised when Tathza spins around at her approach, but quickly changes it to a friendly smile. "I had heard stories of drows' hearing, and even thought that I had done well that time. Sorry Tathza, but I had to try once." Zinnaella takes a seat near the two and looks to umposlogaas, "I apologize, we never actually met with all the action and moving about. I am Zinnaella, and what was your name again?" As Mitra and Evelyn come downstairs, Zinnaella looks to Tathza to answer Evelyn's question.

(Sense Zane is ok with my actions) Tathza did not like being tested, perphaps next time he would have a reflex and sling a spell at her. Humans and their petty games, why not just kick a dragon just to see what it would do. Leave it to a human to do such a thing. "We need to gather information and then see what we all know about the current state of things. But we do have a meeting with the mayor in a short time so if you have anything I would advise you share it with us now. The last thing we need is secrets that could cause our mission or lives to be risked due to lack of trust or information. Does anyone have anything to offer or disagreements?" Tathza would not give any of his own information unless presented with some himself. On the other hand he did not know if he would tell him his thoughts because their was little fact in them more theory and guess work.

Sitting down next to Eve, Mitra listens and continues to brush her hair. Trying with eventually some success to get the knots out of her hair. The drow speaks his words and she can hear the frustration in his voice. Obviously he wasn't a patient man, mor a failing of his sex than a failing of his race, she thinks. Having met a good number of drow in her life she knows that usually they are patient people who suffer fools to better themselves, however this one doesn't suffer anything much. She waits to see what information the others present before she will speak her peace. Not that she has anything to add merely observations of the distance travelled and just how bad these riders can be if it's not the talk of the town.

Zinnaella looks confused momentarily, "Aren't we meeting with the mayor here in order to obtain information? Besides, we all remained about the tavern last evening - well, expect for you Tathza."

Evelyn listens to Tathza and Zinnaella. She is pleased Zinnaella said those words first instead of Eve. Tathza will treat her with more kindness, atleast she hoped. "I too have little to add in the way of information that may help us with our meeting." "It is not easy to obtain information without raising suspicions on why we are here. I did not hear any words with regards to our quarry, so am not sure how big a part they play here, if at all. Unless all live in fear of them, they would not dare speak of them in public." With regards to our meeting with the Mayor, I would recommend we present ourselves accordingly and choose one among us who can speak with him in a formal manner, so as to gain the most information from him." She continues, "As I understand it, Tathza, you know of the place where they were last spotted. If the Mayor does not give us any fresh new leads perhaps we should go there to investigate."

Now things were spicing up. Zin was pointing things out and Eve was reminding the drow what he knew. This could be fun, but the most important thing was the mission, the fun would have to keep the quest had to be completed and the maidens honour, no matter how ugly her face, needed to be saved. Mitra began to eat some of the salad that was on the table shunning the meat. Maybe in this realm drow were different, still as cool and calculating as ever but, some how different, then she noticed it, his ears were slightly shorter his skin less... dark, he was a half-caste oh the poor guy must have had such a hard time being stuck between two worlds.

umposlogaas says " i would be happy to gather any information but i dont know what sort of information you require as i dont know what this aventure that tathza mentioned is about" "i will aid in any way i can but would ask what this party goal is?"

As the party discuss plans and actions, the staff of the Lonely Miner huddle about in quiet conversation. Smiles are exchanged and knowing nods. Finally, Miro, who is lounging a bit with his feet proped up on the cold fireplace's brick, yells out in mock anger. "Aye you bunch of fools. Get on with the birthday planning for goodness sake and stop whisperin about like this ol'dwarf doesn't know which end is up and which end sits." A bit of laughter openly erupts and the staff begin open decorations for the party in the evening. Miro, for his part, leaves the company on their own, not wishing to invade any morning privacy unless approached or beckoned. And, as his friends refuse to let him in the kitchen or assist, he is content to sip coffee and relax, looking out the windows at the beginning day.

Evelyn looks at umposlogaas in disbelief, "You do not know? If you are to travel with us, you will need to know what danger you face. But this is perhaps not the place to openly discuss. Would you be willing to wait till we see the mayor? You will be fully informed at that point. If not then return to our private room and I shall inform you of what I know" she looks to Tathza for his opinion on the matter.

" thank you! i long to learn what brings this groups together, for surely it must be noble cause!" umposlogaas lookes a little happyer to be in this strange place knowing that he would soon know the reason.

Tathza did not like being singled out like that but dismissed it. "I was out looking for certain items that would be of use to me and bits of information. I have nothing of fact to speak of. Our targets are not as weak and simple as they may seem for if that was the case then we would not have been called. The mayor may or may not have information for us and even so they are known to be looking for our targets and so would be watched while we as of yet are not known and so could gather information that those under the mayor may not be able to. I fear that window is closing the closer we get to meeting with the mayor. As for the druid he has shown to be honest and forth coming and so I see no reason not to inform him. If he wishes to help us then his talents would be welcome. If you would excuse me I would like to enjoy this little party before our meeting." Tathza excuses himself and makes his way to the dwarf. "Greetings I am Tathza Sabran and would like to wish you a very happy birthday along with many more. I would like to say I am sorry for not introducing myself earlier as I have business to attend to. So how many years are you good dwarf?" Tathza unlike many drow or even elves for that matter liked dwarves. He admired their discipline and skill ing the smithing arts. Their battle tactics and tampered skill were things of function over beauty and so were held in their own right a grace of simplisity.

"Older than my enemies thought possible and young enough to still have some," Miro says with a laugh. "And what business bring you to Prejete or should I assume it is the same as the priestess," he says sliding a chair over next to him. "Sit unless you've still business to attend to. Nuthin will get started here until evening. And then I'll suffer rolling out good casks of ale and wine."

Mitra leans close to Eve while still brushing her hair, and whispers once the drow has walked away. "He does know that the party doesn't start till tonight right? Oh and something else." She leans even closer to Eve's ear and breaths "He is a half-caste." She hums to herself, and closes her eyes, [i:ofc7ugv7]Oh it is going to be an exciting day.[/i:ofc7ugv7]

As Tathza stands to leave, Evelyn asks quickly, "What time is our meeting today?" [if he ignores her she will repeat the question to Zinnaella.] "Half cast?" she whispers back, "ah so he is not a true drow, Maybe that's why he always answers with a sharp tongue. I thought it was just because he was a man" she giggles. She whispers into Mitra's ear "I must speak with Val about my visions before this meeting. Please do not be angry." then says to the group, "I too must leave you all for a moment, there is something I must discuss with Val." She glances at Zinnaella and smiles, then stands and leaves the taproom. Hoping to find him still in their private room. [assuming he is still there] She greets him as she enters and walks up to him saying softly. "We need to talk" "in private," she adds [will pm you Kurzio with conversation.]

She nods to Eve and whispers back. "No it's fine, have your secret talk with Val." She watches Eve leave then takes another lettice eating a leaf. Then looks to Zin and the others, "So... do we go shopping before the meeting or afterwards." She says with a smile.

Tathza replies to Evelyn as he walks pass. "I need to speak with Sander Jermeka some time this mourning to arrange a offical meeting with the mayor" Tathza takes a seat making sure his robe is smooth and comfortable. "I find it interesting that you have spoken to the priestess, she is of our group. I would hope that you have a bit of elven wine in the back somewhere of a good year, it seems that only a good dwarf or a proper elf seems to know what a fine ale or wine taste like. Well I do not know if my business will take me from tonights festivities. But until I meet with Sander Jermeka I have nothing but time. Unless you can point me to a merchant that deals in scrolls I seem to be in need of a few? "

"I am rarely interesting Master Sabran. Fat maybe, interesting no," Miro says. "But you're in luck. I've a little Elven wine. I'll tell you what, I'll bet you that bastard Jermeka gets you in and out in time for the party. If I'm right, you'll give me a rousing birthday toast. If I'm wrong, I'll toast you but you'll need more than Elven wine to soothe your aching head from loosing a petty battle with that paper king Jermeka. Deal?" He watches Tathza with some humor and then sides in close making a show of slapping the drow hard on his shoulder. Pitching his voice low he adds, "Small bookseller south end under the broken clock," before pulling back laughing loudly.

Tathza liked dwarves and Miro just added to it. Tathza got up and laughing made his way out of the inn and towards the bookshop that Miro had told him about. Once he had gained a scroll or two he would be on his way to meet with this so called "paper king Jermeka" and arrange his meeting with the mayor. But he did not like the way the dwarf had spoken of this human. Tathza enetered the shop and made his way towards the counter. "I was told by Miro that this was the place to find scrolls of interest"

The book shop is exceptionally narrow. Books lean from rickety shelves all over the place. Luckily the shop is empty, otherwise Tathza could have been out of grace. The book seller looks around small circle glasses from a large moth eaten tome which she had been laboriously copying onto new parchment. Her hair is a bright Auburn and, despite the glasses, she appears young. She purses her lips. "Since when does the Bane of Halsten send me fools? Or am I to take it that since you presume the shop empty it is fine to blurt out your business, if not Miro's, so any street urchin can sell it to a guardsmen, who informs his Captain, who is honor bound to pass it ever so higher until I've blades in my lovely shop trampling bindings?" She brushes past him, closes the door, and turns the open sign to closed. "Speak, or has suddenly sense run amok in your head," she says fixing Tathza with clear green eyes.

Tathza's own temper rises at her words. But he keeps it in check for the most part but the blade of his tongue would not be stilled. "As I recall scrolls contain many things of interest such as knowledge and information that fools like youself care little about to find them interesting and so deal only in scrolls of power, so I would assume by your dramatic manner that you have drawn eyes and ears on yourself by your own actions and not mine. So by your own foolish tongue have you given me information on not only Miro but yourself, your city, and your guards. Do not assume anything from me little girl until you have gained some wisdom and therefore sense. So now that I have corrected your little errors shall we speak plainly and fairly or do you wish to keep on with this insulting act." Tathza had already gained something from this humans words and if he left with a few scrolls he would be most pleased with the day indeed. But Tathza very much disliked those with a good mind yet no sense to temper it, yet he would give her a chance after all she was young and time had a way to remedy such things if given the chance.

"Insulting is being enough of a buffoon to openly ask for issues that the Mayor is collecting and hoarding. Insulting is using another's name who would have sense enough to convey the location of needed things in confidence and quietly, obviously assuming incorrectly that the person whom he has assisted would go about it in an appropriate manner. Or should I assume that you've arrived here by directions openly and loudly stated? In which case, I'm afraid this shop deals only in old musty books and I am just a down on my luck librarian," she waves her hand in an irritated manner. "Being called a little girl though," she continues walking past Tathza, behind the counter, and into a doorway at the back, "is marvelous. If the fat dwarf hadn't sent message of you, I'd turn you out regardless of you trying to compliment my age." The woman has a rueful smile as she turns back to Tathza, framed by a low yellow light at her back. "Coming Drow or are there more pleasantries you wish to honor me with?" She doesn't wait for Tathza to follow. Obviously, he would. She heads deeper into the shop. "What is it you want and how much you willing to pay? Or should I assume to put it on the dwarf's bill?"

Tathza would have loved to slam the damnable human with a spell but such things were rude and the dwarf had helped him out. So he dismissed the words and thoughts, down to business. "I am looking for a few scrolls and I have some gold but not overly much. I would not insult the dwarf by allowing him to pay for what I need. More so on this day then any other. How powerful are your scrolls and how much gold would be required to purchase the scroll in terms of power. I am not looking for anything overly rare so basing the price on the power of the scroll would do." Tathza takes careful stock of the tomes around him.

Xerxes wakes feeling refreshed, yawning and stretching he heads downstairs and eats breakfast with zeal while listening to the others discuss. Turning to Mitra he says "Sure, I'll take you shopping, what is it that your heart desires?"

The woman mutters as she appears to rummage along the back shelves. (Tathza roll spot please) "It seems the bold forget to listen." She turns to Tathza and crosses her arm across her chest. "Let's be blunt Drow," she says carrying out the 'd' in drow. "Market value is of little use when the Mayor is acquiring most spells of significance, especially those with offensive and defensive capabilities, which means practically everything aside from create water and ventriloquism. Even if the Mayor has an affection for dummies. He's not acquiring them by paying a price. And there have only ever been two suppliers, so we understand what it means when he says that they have been donated for the good of the town. Get it." She levels her gaze with Tathza. She is slightly shorter. "I'm no mind reader or savant. I've little hidden for purposes. But as you come by means of recommendation, I can overlook the loss, not the money or the danger. Which means I won't offer what you can't afford or I can't afford to let go. Your choices are slim. I've a couple single level missile spells and an armor. Price is double the going rate, which given the circumstances is exceptional. 50gp for each. Your choice. And one more thing. If you use these within the town walls, you probably send me to very dark and uncomfortable new lodgings. Understand?"

Mitra turns to Xerxes, and as if seeing him for the first time she puts out her hand "I'm Mitra nice to meet you." before he can take her hand she slips it expertly around his arm and locks it gently, she then stands and looks to Zin "Come on then Zinny looks like this nice gentleman is going to take us shopping." With her other hand she covers the smile on her face and titters "I hope he has a lot of coin. Where should we start first... I'm thinking a new dress maybe then some hiking boots I feel like we might be going for a long walk soon." In a world of her own she starts to wonder off drag Xerxes towards the door with one hand held out for Zin to take. "See I knew today was going to be an exciting day. What colour do you think I should get? Maybe red or blue or green?"

Spot [dice:32g1qq3r]1d20[/dice:32g1qq3r] Tathza thinks about it for a moment and goes thru his gold in his mind. The going rate of a scroll would be acceptable and even two would have been a decent investment. But he did not have much gold and the price of a single scroll was just not worth it from this place. It seems the market was not in his favor because the mayor had been hoarding magic. He would look into that. "I am sorry but the price is simply to high for me. I cant risk the lost for so little gain. Thank you for your time and I will be sure not to let the mayor now that a few scraps of magic got thru his fingers."

After her discussion with Val, Evelyn returns to the taproom to find it empty. She decides to have a look at the temples available in this town and leaves the tavern and makes her way to their district. [She hopes to find a temple of Vecer - but if she doesnt she will visit a shrine/temple to a god allied or at least neutral to Vecer]

Tathza looks about the books and parchment stacked in the back. At first glance, it would seem the are not in good order. Haphazard by title, but then he sees the wisdom. They are arranged by topic, or at least the books are. He can not see any magic scrolls in plain view, but a few bindings seem altered, skewed, and subtly not matching the paper within. There are scrolls her, but not many. The woman pauses and looks at Tathza. Finally, she shrugs. "Nor can I give without thought. You know where I am and Miro knows how to get to me if I not around," she says leading Tathza out. "Good luck fair prince," she says at the door as a parting shot.

Miro watches Mitra link with Xerxes and smiles. [i:334z1bak] I'd wager that man is in for trouble. Well, might as well help him out some.[/i:334z1bak] "Market in the morning in the center square has most things, used or new. Bound to find something or someone of interest," he yells at Mitra and Xerxes.

Evelyn finds directions are easy enough. Miro had said that most temples, or at least those of reputable Gods, stood around the main square or close to it. Walking in the morning, she notices that again it will be overly hot, far hotter than normal. Even this early in the morning, people sweat and complain. She walks for some and gets directions from a cloth seller on the eastern corner of the main square. Vecer does indeed have small temple a block over. The main square is partially lined with merchants selling this and that. The temple is close. Should Evelyn continue to the Temple of Vecer she finds it as she would expect. It lies at a confluence of five streets. The streets all converge like the rays of a star on a single small circular center; people, carts, and animals weave in and out of each other in a continually changing kaleidoscope of color, life, and death. There appears no argument or coarse words. The temple is small, lacking significant decoration, and is alabaster white. The sun mutely reflects from the crowd and the laundry hung out of windows of the surrounding buildings and dances upon the temples walls. The pattern is never the same nor could it ever be. A single priest stands on the steps in the background of such movement, appearing calm like a mother overlooking a multitude of children romping in play across her yard.

Evelyn approaches the priest on the steps and bows low, "Greetings," she says softly, "My name is Evelyn and am one of Vecer's own. I have travelled from Belfor and have not visited a temple for a few days. May I enter?" she adds, "These are troubling times," she glances to the sky, "and seek guidance in prayer."

"Linel," the priests says in greeting. "The temple is yours," he continued. "Indeed many of us have been uncertain of late. Change delayed burdens us some and we've looked for council in prayer, guidance in discussion. There is no Zmena here to consult. He is traveling westward for consultation. A small garden is to the right and the prayer room left ward. May Vecer answer you Evelyn."

"Thank you Linel, May Vecer find favour in you." she replies softly. She motions to continue then stops and turns to Linel and says. "Linel, I hope you do not mind me asking this but, have you or the Znema or any others had any 'visions' of late or any dreams that don't quite seem right?"

Linel turns and accompanies Evelyn within the temples open doors. Cooler in there out of the sun. He walks her a few steps inside the entrance alcove. "Apologies. Such talk is not best done out of doors." He takes a breath. "Most of us have less vision or dreams outside the temple. But inside, we are troubled most nights. On some we are stuck between sleep and wakefulness. Some of us feel Vecer is sending us a message by holding us between in transition. We come to morning rested and untroubled on those nights. Other times we enter sleep too quickly as if one moment awake and next dreaming with nothing in between. Those nights are when we are fretful. Dreaming or its abruptness haunts us, as if we are hunted. Fall should have begun weeks ago. We worry Vecer loses favor." Linel pauses. His face full of lines. "The Zmena went westward to the meeting of the rivers Dobre Reka and Cerne Vody and the temple there to consult with more of us."

Tathza left the bookstore with some information at the least. He went on his way to meet with this Sander Jermeka at the office to make the arrangements and get back to the dwarf and his party. He enters the building and talks to the person at the counter. "I am here to see Sander Jermeka."

The clerk sniffs. Rudeness it would seem is attracted to Tathza on this day like flies to honey. The clerk responds without ever looking up or putting his quill down. "And what manner of business," the clerk begins, "do you suppose you have with Master Jermeka."

Evelyn takes in Linel's words, a look of concern on her face. she lowers her voice, naturally aware that she shouldnt speak so brazenly about such things as she had only a moment before. "I too have had dreams similar to what you describe," She hesitates uncertain of her next words. "I have seen more. I have seen someone who may be involved in this. An agent perhaps working for a higher power, I have seen..murder.. yet I do not know if it has occured or if it is yet to pass or for what purpose the murder is commited." Taking Linel by the arm, she walks deeper into the temple till she is certain they cant be over heard then she speaks to him in hushed whispers, revealling details of her dream sent visions and the identities of those involved. When she is finished she steps back and waits for his response.

Tathza dismisses the whole affair before it can begin. "I was asked to come here from the mayor of Belfor, I am the groups guide, I am also hear to arrange the meeting that was requested by your own mayor. If I am mistake I can send word back to mayor and see if this can be resolved by him." Humans had no sense of danger and then they wondered why they fell like leaves from a tree.

Linel looks at Evelyn and sighs. "Indeed sister, those dreams are puzzling and dangerous. You must have favor with Vecer greater than I or the others. I wish the Zmena was present to hear you words." He looks absently at the floor, blue and green tiles meander in swirling unison, departing each other and the rejoining later. Finally, he looks up into Evelyn's eyes. "The Zmena should return in a tenday. He would hear from you directly and perhaps the wisdom of the conclave will help clear the details. Surely there are others as fortunate as you in Vecer's vision."

"And I imagine the Mayor," the clerk says drawing the word out, "has given you a letter of introduction?" The clerk looks up and finally sees Tathza. He wrinkles his nose. It is obvious, unhidden, and undeniable.

Tathza smiles and hands over the letter. "Why yes I have and dont worry I made that same face when I first walked in here myself."

"If I am still here in a tenday, I will gladly speak with your Zmena" Evelyn replies softly. "I am on a mission of import," she continues, "and I do not know where this quest will take me." "Thank you brother Linel, I am glad I was able to share this news to the order." she adds, "I will now go to prayer. I have promised someone I will mention them in my prayers and have since learned it is that person's birthday so intend to create a small gift." She bows low and walks to the prayer room. At the entrance she removes 5 pieces of gold from her pouch and places it in a bowl on a shelf. Kneeling on the cold floor, she carefully unfolds her velvet roll and begins her prayers. When her guidance prayers are complete, she takes a single copper coin from her pouch and places it in her right hand. Holding it up to her breast she whispers a prayer. She then moves the coin to her forehead and finally places it on the ground before her. In each new position she cites a different prayer. When finally complete. She wraps the coin in a small piece of cloth and leaves the temple, bowing once more in farewell to brother Linel.

(I laughed today. Thanks.) The clerk chokes a bit on his own swallowing. The Mayor's seal is genuine, this drow empowered, and he sitting in the foyer still, even after three years of service. "Excuse me sir," he says trying to recover. He leaves his seat and walks to a door to the right. In roughly ten minutes, he returns with a very short man, impeccably dressed, and very well groomed. The clerk does not look Tathza in the eye while returning to his seat. "Sander Jermeka," the short man says perfunctorily. "Come with me please." The please sounding germane and simply by protocol. Tathza follows Sander Jermeka to his office. Jermeka sits behind a fairly large desk an motions to a chair. He occupies himself by reading the letter from the Mayor of Balfor. He turns it over and looks at the back when done and holds it up to the light coming in a single window behind him. Laying the letter on his desk, he regards Tathza before speaking. "The Mayor and his council will grant you and your company audience this afternoon. Four o'clock. You will appoint yourselves here to be escorted to the chamber. If there are no further questions, Master Sabran, I will greet you near the close of the day." Sander Jermeka pauses, his hands clasped and settled in his lap. "Questions?"

Tathza had to hold his face from showing anything. These humans were shameful even by means of their race. Was simple manners and respect only gained thru power and fear. He found the concept so much like the drow he nearly laughed. "I would like to know if you could direct me to a merchant that deals in magical scrolls and potions as it would aid my group. Also I would like to know the state of this town and its recent events as it seems to me as if not everything is as it should be?" Tathza made sure to keep his voice level and almost as if it was a little concern.

Sander Jermeka responds easily. "Master Sabran, this is a small town not a large city. There are few practitioners of the art available and less who are willing to scribe without the demand. I would direct you to Preil Findane, who has a book shop beneath the broken clock in the south end, or Boden Nepat, who sells curiosities in his shop huddled along the west wall." Sander Jermeka remains unfazed, flat even, under Tathza stare. "As for the town, it functions as all town's do. Fortune and travail happens, but leadership encourages the former while abridging the latter. I was not aware that you have been to Prejete before or lived here for a time nor was I aware of your familiarity with her history or governance. Since you must obviously be a citizen of Prejete as opposed to, say, a visitor on business who has been a guest for a single day, then I ask you write your concern on this form," he says sliding a piece of parchment across his desk towards Tathza,"and I'll insure a member of the council or the Mayor himself replies."

Tathza looks at the form and does nothing. His face grows cold and his eyes shifted to silver for a moment. "My I hope that your mayor is more honest and forth coming then you. I will return for my meeting with your mayor as agreed." Tathza turns and leaves. He would gather more information with in the town and see how well these humans would move thru their web of lies once they became trapped in it.

As Tathza stands to leave, Sander Jermeka appends his sentence seeming to completely disregard the slight. "Good. It is understood then. You will return with your company for the meeting with the Mayor this afternoon. Each of them. Until then Master Sabran. You can see yourself out."

Tathza made a mental note to ask the dwarf about that human. Tathza found that he trusted the dwarf, after all he had helped him and asked anything return and shown him trust something he had gotten very little of in general. Tathza walked to the town square to take in the sights and anything of interest. (If nothing of note is in the town square Tathza goes to the Boden Nepat shop)

The square is interesting, no doubt, but hawkers and sellers begin to wear. Eventually, Tathza would find it all tedious (I think) and continue to pursue his wants. Bedon Nepat's shop is neater with a new roof. The bell rings gently as the solid door springs open. A mild smell of incense drifts lazily throughout the shop despite what one would think the smoke would do to the books. Boden Nepat is a tall thin half-elf. His black hair is flat and has a dull purple sheen. He smiles openly. It doesn't take long. He lays two scrolls on the table without so much as a fuss. They both encased on wooden tubes with the mark of each engraved on the outside. "Armor and fang, or missile as the human's put it. 25gp for one, 40 for both."

Tathza can tell at once that it is a fellow half breed. But while Tathza had thick drow blood and could mostly pass for a drow to many even some among pure blooded drow, this one on the other hand was plainly a half elf. "Greetings I heard that you are the one to come to for certain items. My name is Tathza Sabran" Tathza gave a small bow. At the half elf's reaction Tathza is put on edge. "Why would you suppose that I am in need of such items?"

Zinnaella wasn't all that interested in shopping, but she wasn't going to stop Mitra - especially with how excited the girl was about the idea. So, she just gave a smile and takes Mitra's hand. As Mitra starts to drag her and Xerxes out, she glances at Xerxes to see how he is taking this. After Miro gives them directions, the trio heads to the town square and start looking around. Zinnaella let's Mitra lead the way through all the wares, her focus instead on looking for signs of the merchants that sell more than they show. In Belfor, such merchants usually have ties to the local Thieves Guild and she figures that would be her best chance for gathering information.

Zinnaella follows in Mitra's wake. The merchants are merchants, meaning loud and fun. They laugh and engage despite the heat or the undercurrent of difficulty. That is life for them and they cling to it. Zinnaella sees the produce isn't great, but it is not awful. There is much less than she expects, but more than what could be found in Belfor. One of the merchants, a very round woman with multiple bracelets on her wrists, catches Zinnaella's attention. A single bracelet, enmeshed with the other, bears the sign. It shifts and is gone, to reappear as she raises her voice to sell. But, although they may appear so, her movements are not random. The bracelet is like a beacon for those who know where to look.

Boden Nepat smiles. "News travels. As do many other things, but maybe I was mistaken," he says and makes to put the scroll cases away.

Tathza gives the half elf a look. "It is just that scrolls can contain many things and not all of them are friendly towards the caster. Not to mention the fact that information on someone who has only spent a day with in this town is traveling thru it. Would you not wonder why a merchant would have the items you wished to purchase before you even spoke of it?"

Boden Nepat lets his smile fade and seems indignant. He removes the scrolls from the counter top and puts them under the counter. A click can be heard as if from a lock box. Then he returns to Tathza and answers his question. "In such a case, I would shop elsewhere should I be concerned with the character of the merchant. If you'd excuse me, but the shop closes at noon."

"If I wished to shop elsewhere I would have left and not bothered to speak with you. It seems to me that this town is more then it appears and that the same can be said of its shop keepers. Can you blame me for being careful what with the attacks and such. It is not noon yet, would you have anything of interest for sale?"

((Tathza Roll Sense Motive)) "I am a merchant and well respected. I do not like selling to suspicious people. They are bad for my business and reputation. Should they err from thier own misfortune, it is I who am maligned. Be on your way, there is nothing here of interest to you," Boden Nepat says in a huff while cleaning the counter-top and settling loose paper.

Sense Motive [dice:2tmvhmn8]1d20[/dice:2tmvhmn8]

Tathza and Boden Nepat share the same space. Language ties them together only. Tathza gets a sense that the merchant is lying although genuinely disturbed and obviously believing that Tathza has insinuated that he is of poor character. It is a vague sensation, neither exactly certain or for that matter capable of disregarding on account of him overreacting to a human. It seems that indeed he is trying to outdo his competitor but there is something else underneath that is tenuous. Boden Nepat becomes a little more forceful. "The door is behind you, sir."

"Mitra, I think I see something I may like. You and Xerxes continue around here and I'll catch up, ok?" Zinnaella gives Mitra a smile and leaves her and Xerxes behind. Zinnaella heads over to the very round female merchant's table. She simply browses for a moment, waiting until any other customers have moved on. Then, she catches the woman's eye and beckons her close with little more than a slight twist of a finger. Once they have some small measure of privacy, Zinnaella speaks softly, "I travel from Belfor and was hoping to find one such as yourself that either might help me, or knows one that can." Zinnaella rubs her wrists, as if considering a purchase and quickly taps one wrist with a finger, indicating the sign she noticed.

"Sell, buy, or trade. Goods or talk," the big woman says, the sentence single words interspersed with her yelling prices into the crowd while seeming to sell Zinnaella a piece of cloth.

Xerxes is surprised when she starts leading him out, but just smiles at Zin. "I think blue is prettiest, but I don't think we're going to have time to have you fitted for a dress, plus I don't think I have enough to afford one" after walking a bit through the market and once Zin is done he turns back to Mitra and says "how about a bracelet? you've got 10 silver to spend, make it count" ((while wandering through the market I'd like to make a gather information roll to see if anyone's heard anything recent about raids or the Hidden Rider's of Tomorrow)) Gather info [dice:88nv7fkm]1d20[/dice:88nv7fkm] and the time it takes [dice:88nv7fkm]1d4+1[/dice:88nv7fkm] ((talk about lucky! woot! like they say, better to be lucky than good ))

Zinnaella takes ahold of the cloth, running it through her fingers. "Buy or trade, talk." Zinnaella kept a calm exterior, but inside was a very different story. She had, as had all members, some training in working with others, but she had never shown promise in that aspect and instead focused her training on remaining out of sight. But, this was what was needed of her know - so she would try. As long as she didn't make any major mistakes, she shouldn't be in any trouble. She may not actually gain anything, but she should remain safe as well.

Tathza makes a choice for he had nothing to lose. Tathza speaks in Elven "I see that their is no sense of brotherhood among our kind. That a simple misunderstanding would ruin such a oppertunity to converse." Tathza bows and turns to leave. He intends to leave and go back to the inn and speak with the dwarf as well as wait for the others and inform them of the meeting.

Xerxes meanders through the market. His ear is keen and his questions subtle and smooth. He finds those that talk easy and with sureness. He notes when they know what he needs or are spinning stories to sell their wares. He finds the following. 1. Briefly, there was a group of Riders that attack a few people and wagons very early in the year. They originally were called the Hollow Riders and some time after, the last 3 months or so, tales of Hidden Riders were told by travelers and linked to the original band. 2. The area around Prejete, its farms, and any mercantile trade into and out off Prejete have had no trouble with either group except in those early months. 3. A farmer and his family were killed within the last month in some grisly affair. No tracks of riders or men could be found. Pieces of them were burnt. Not many know of the tale or think it is hearsay, but it is not. A group of soldiers were sent to the farm and returned less than a tenday later. 4. Men on horseback have been seen upon the hills in the area of the old mines. There has been no trouble though, but the mention of riders brings the fact out.

The big woman calls over a sandy haired boy. He takes over the stall with little direction. She walks back without looking at Zinnaella while taking down a long dress from the line. "A little large for you girl," she says. "But Mistress Valzen can hemm it up proper. Come, I do it here so you can look." Mistress Valzen leads Zinnaella to a covered tent some paces from the stall set between two building. Its thick burlap sides cuts the light and sound from outside. She throws the dress over a pole and takes a seat in a wooden chair. "Landed or free," she asks Zinnaella, wondering if the girl is counted in a brotherhood, clan, or college.

Boden Nepat lets Tathza leave without a word. After a time, when he's sure Tathza is gone, he claps a hand across his forehead. "Fool. Fool," he says to himself, heaving a large sigh.

Tathza makes his way back to the inn. He enters and starts looking for Miro to speak with him.

Miro is enjoying his birthday and, as one would figure from the dwarf, is out back cutting wood with an axe. He whistles and has his shirt off given the significant heat. Tathza finds him easy. Walking up as he swings the axe to split another log, Tathza can see that his back is crisscrossed with thick narrow scars. The area is devoid of hair unlike the rest of his body. The edges of a tattoo are noticeable on his right shoulder, but the rest has been burned off by fire or scrapped away until angry healing replaced it. Splinters flitter about as the logs shatter.

Zinnaella follows Mistress Valzen back to more private quarters. At her question, Zinnaella's calm breaks a little as she is unsure the best way to answer. "Uh, Delas Chce?" she responds, giving the name of the Thieves Guild in Belfor, hoping that answers the woman's question.

Tathza gets the dwarf's attention. "This town seems to be more and more well mannered as I meet more of its people, I wish they were all as rude as a dwarf I would feel much more at home but alas. Remind me never to get in your way when you have an axe. Its your birth day why dont you take it easy?"

"A suitable beginning," Valzen says. "Then the first time is free. Ask your questions. As long as their not too dangerous, I'll answer" she continues and removes a bracelet from her wrist flicking it to Zinnaella. The bracelet is copper and dull, but value is not necessarily in the metal that makes it. In a small area, two bears face each other holding between them interlocking circles. A standard. "When the time comes to move on, maybe you'll remember Mistress Valzen. Of course, if we're just at it to buy and sell, then maybe you won't," she says with a laugh. Mistress Valzen is large with long grey hair, but her girth is deceiving. To the tent, she shambled this way and that, but once inside she moved with simple fluid grace. Zinnaella could see her walking a roof edge or fence without surprise.

Miro spits and laughs. "This is easy," he says around a mouth full of thin summer ale. "And this is no proper axe. It likely break before creasing your hard headed skull drow. Speak your mind or leave me to merriment," he states.

Tathza laughs. "Well its good your in fine spirits. The woman you sent me to wanted to overcharge me, the half elf I visited after my meeting with that snake you call a human seemed to know more about me and what I was looking for that I questioned his motives and got the boot. Finally it seems this mayor is causing more problems on top of those we already have to deal with. Personally I am starting to miss the road and its bandits more and more. I would like to know what is going on in this town. That and a good drink."

Zinnaella caught the bracelet easily, twisting it in her fingers so she can easily see the bears. She then faces the woman and gives her a smile, "Well met Mistress Valzen, I am Zinnaella. I am traveling at the request of those I mentioned, along with a number of adventurers, to look into a group of bandits that have been causing trouble in our city, a group known as the Hidden Riders. Any information that could help us with this would be extremely beneficial, not only to Belfor, but also to Prejete - since I am sure that they are not only bothering Belfor."

umpolslogas and bollo will take a tour of th market and town other mebers of the party might see him wondering around stareing at th tall buildings and goggling at the sights and sounds

Evelyn leaves the temple and makes her way back to the Lonely Miner tavern. The heat is unbearable so she keeps to the shadows of the buildings as she walks in the hope to avoid the sun's glaring wrath. She keeps to herself, lost in thought so does not pay attention to those around her, except to avoid them. She enters the taproom and enquires of Miro's whereabouts. She waits till he is alone [if he's still out the back she will go there] and approaches him bowing low in a greeting. "Many happy returns Miro,"she says to him softly, "I hope you are enjoying your day of birth remembrance and enjoy many more." "I have a small gift for you," she adds. Producing a carefully wrapped small black cloth she hands it to him holding it in both hands and bowing slightly. When he unravels it he sees a single copper coin, it is dull on one side and has been polished to a shine on the other. she adds, "When we first met you mentioned you have opened your eyes thinking to find death many times. This coin is a blessed token of Vecer. It has been blessed thrice, for your body, mind and spirit. Keep this token hidden in your garments and you will never need to fear death again, for when it comes and it shall, this token will ensure Vecer will greet you with due respect and safely take you to your afterlife, with or without a proper burial or funeral.."

She was excited, the sights, sounds and smells of the market were some what familiar but at the same time strange. It was all wondeful. She rushed from stall to stall looking, touching, sniffing and tasting all that the market had to offer. The other two could only be dragged in the wake of the whirlwind of excitement. Zin mentioned something she had to do, Mitra waved a hand and went on examining a tiny lizard that was in a cage. She eventually came back to Xerxes, "I can't find any blue dresses, mister." she barely looks him in the eye watching a juggler that is entertaining people towards one side of the square. "I found some bits and pieces through, can I have the ten stell, pwease." Once Xerxes hands over the coin she squeels with joy and rushes off into the crowd. About fifteen minutes later she returns, with some new braclets and bangles that go half way up her left forearm. "These were going really cheap, and this." She pulls a tiara out of her satchel, it looks old and made from a cheap metal, either a poormans silver or plated. It still looks delicate and she slips it into her hair. "Now I feel like a princess. Do you want to head back to the tavern?" She heres a band start up some where in the crowd. The music is lovely and soothing to the chaos of her mind. "Oh that sounds good. Come on lets dance." She grabs Xerxes hand and drags him through the crowd till she sees the band and some other people already starting to dance. Dragging Xerxes out onto the square (even if he protest), she joins in the dance, which seems to be a form of line dance, after a few trys she gets the hang of the moves and is soon laughing and smiling to Xerxes next to her, and with the other women. She lets out a whoop of joy, when the other people do, it seems to be part of the dance. [Wooo four pages of posts after I went to bed last night... good going guys.]

Val finally gets out of the room after thinking about his speech with Eve and waits at the tavern until the rest of the group gets back. ((Edit: Misunderstanding))

[ will edit this post if any response is required to Miro] After speaking with Miro, Evelyn returns to the taproom to see Val sitting on his own. She gives him a smile and sits down next to him. Using her hand to cover her mouth at one side she whispers into his ear. "I have visited my temple and the news is much the same. They are all getting these fear ridden nightmares that provoke fitful sleep. In tendays the highest of their order will return from a meeting with neighbouring orders and should we be passing this town I will try and gain audience to see if I can learn more." She leans back and adds, "We need to decide on how much we should tell the others. There may be some among us who are not getting these dreams. Withholding this information could work against us... What do you think?" "And if we do tell, who can we truly trust?" she adds hastily.

Mistress Valzen considers her words and Zinnaella. "I'm a traveler," she says pausing, "like you. Information pulls me here and there and I make my rounds. Prejete has been peaceful. No Riders have attacked here in my time. But, I have heard news here and there of bandits in black and red to the south. I took precautions against them and traveled a more northernly route. It was safer as many merchants have found. More wagons travel this way than I expected, so I was curious about Prejete." Valzen pauses for a moment as loud voices fade in and out near her stall. She briefly checks it through the flap of the tent. "There is other news of Riders. Not in this area, but in two places in the east. Along the far shore at Prilin, where the southerners made land in the last war, and more north at the edge of frost along the border towns. But," she thinks, "I took them for bandits of the time not some signal of other events. Surely not tied to the unrest in the Capital," she adds.

Zinnaella nods at the information Mistress Valzen offers. She personally doubted that the far away Riders were the ones she and her group were after, but it also might mean this problem was not simply a local one. Valzen's final comment then struck Zinnaella and she looked to the lady curiously, "Unrest in the Capital? What unrest would that be?"

Miro laughs at Tathza in a good hearted way. "Drow, you'll find that having a good drink is the best it gets. Bandits can be fun to, but 'civilized' life has far more annoying dangers. A little advice. When you see the Mayor, be smart. I don't know much, but mistakes made while building a puzzle creates mess." "When's your meeting," he asks, picking up the axe and swinging it down. "And did you like the 'paper king' as much as I do."

Miro turns Evelyn's coin over in his hand, his forefinger circling along its edge. "Works done," he says leaning the axe against a large stump and turning away briefly from her. For a moment, his face is hidden. "You do me too much honor priestess and I have no gift to match. As yet. But I'll remember. Us dwarves don't forget even when were dead." He looks at her for a moment. "Now you owe me a dance. Tis my birthday and all and mid-day. No one's around, so you'll get in no trouble. And I like my women with a bit more bulk, so no risk you'll actually find you like this incredibly handsome dwarf." Miro puts on his shirt after brushing wood chippings from his chest and holds his hands out to Evelyn. A proper waltz. Long circles in the yard and a bit of laughter, unless Evelyn declines. Lightness amid memory, Evelyn may think for Miro. ((Hmm. I didn't catch the other dancing until Xerxes post. Odd. Must be in the water))

When he's called 'mister' he says to Mitra "you can call me X, I'm not old enough to be called mister yet" "a dance? aye aye your highness, let's show this town how it's done!" ((I'm not as graceful as Mitra, but I've got sea-legs!))

She laughs and smiles, and jokes and swings her legs and claps her hands along with the others in the line. Not a care in the world. She looks at the bang, their smiling faces, and the sweat gleaming on their brow as they picked the tempo up. She looked to the crowd between squints of her smile. She looked at them as they claped and cheered, she saw a dog jumping and barking at a young boy who was attempting to mimic the moves. The woman who had hitched her skirt up slightly and was dancing with an older man. The young girl who was dressed only in a simple black dress staring at her. The Old man on the banjo who had rocked backwards and forewards on his chair, to the rthymn of the music, so much he had fallen off. The boy who was now dancing with the dog. The girl. She stopped mid dance and stared at the young girl, something looked familiar and as she tilted her head to one side the girl did the same. The other dancers hadn't seemed to notice her. The girl didn't pay them any attention just focusing on Mitra. She looked round to Xerxes, he hadn't noticed either. The world seemsed to slow, the music becoming strained, the dancers slowing to a stop in mid air. All became quiet, Mitra took a step out of the line and the frozen faces of everyone were around her fixed in masks of joy and sweat. She turned back to the girl who had moved she was now at the edge of the crowd. She looked so familar. "Who..." as the words came out of her mouth the young girl looked at her and her eyes were red raw from tears. "Why..." The young girl didn't so much jump or move as was suddenly, stood right next to Mitra, looking deep into her eyes. "How..." Again the girl moved and the silence was golden as she clawed at Mitra's face. The blood flew as Mitra’s head rocked backwards and forwards from the blows. She had to escape so she started running. [Next bit is for those not inside Mitra's Head - Or better known as what actual happens] She had stopped dancing, stopped smiling, stopped everything, as if suddenly she was concentrating on something else. As the other dancers noticed they slowed down. Suddenly Mitra screams loudly and runs, through the crowd creating a scene by shoving and pushing through the startled people. If you give chase she runs straight into the pub and then attempts to climb the stairs, her face seems to be bleeding as if she had dug her nails into her own skin.

A high-pitched scream splits the air, cutting into the revelry. Xerxes instinctively looks over at Mitra and suddenly she's running, he springs into action and chases her through the crowd. "move! out of my way!" as he makes it into the pub he sees Mitra heading up the stairs and he stops, searching the room for familiar faces.

Zinnaella hears the blood curdling scream come from the square, where there had been music and laughter before. Zinnaella tenses up reflexively, but not hearing any more screams following it, she relaxes herself again. However, there is something about the scream, something that she just can't shake as being familiar to her. [i:z90e0umc]But what, and why?[/i:z90e0umc] She looks to Mistress Valzen ((assuming the woman goes to check on what caused the abnormal scream)), "What happened out there?" ((Thread post #100!! ))

Evelyn graciously accepts the dwarf's hand and is led in a whirl of dance moves she has never experienced before. She laughs at the steps and movement led by Miro [balance check for any adventurous moves - DC 10?] [dice:3zu6htcm]20[/dice:3zu6htcm] and manages to keep her balance as she is led around the yard, avoiding tripping over her long dress. "That was splendid!" she exclaims, "I have never danced like that before, though I feel I must learn the moves better next time." she says with a glint of excitement in her eyes. "Thank you Miro, I wish you happiness for the rest of your day!" In parting she hugs the dwarf and makes her way to the taproom.

"You should leave," Mistress Valzen says. "Noise brings inquistive eyes. There are rumors of the King under pressure from the people. Whispers of revolution and a call for the Council of Wizards to be striken down. Quickly, there is little time. Off you go. I will look for you as will my brethren to watch your progression." Mistress Valzen opens the flap and stands by her stall. Screaming echoes from teh buildings surrounded the market place.

Zinnaella nods, slipping the new bracelet onto her left arm even as she slips out of the tent. "Thank you, I will look for you all as well," she says quickly and quietly, slipping off into the crowd that is starting to mill about. Zinnaella first makes her way around the square a few times and then returns back to where she left Xerxes and Mitra, but from the opposite direction. Since she can't find them around there, she searches for a couple minutes in case they wandered elsewhere nearby. Still not finding them, she hopes that they headed back to the Inn at the first signs of trouble and so she returns as well.

Mitra couldn't feel the girl any more but it was not to say she wasn't still around. She opened the bedroom door and slamed it shut again. Backing up to the far wall and the bed. Something moved in front of the window and she didn't look to see what it was she just dived under the bed. She tried to slow her heavy heaving breaths, as she waited under the bed for Eve. Eve would take away the bed girl she would make it stop. The blood began to clot on her facial wounds.

Seeing Evelyn coming into the taproom from the back Xerxes walks directly to her and says, trying to be calm, "something happened in the town square, I think something scared Mitra or attacked her, I didn't see anything, I guess it could have been a bird, I just.. I don't know. She ran up to her room, please go and check on her, I'm sorry, I was responsible for her and I let this happen, please let me know if there's anything I can do." With that he stands at the bottom of the stairs, standing nervously and watching the door and the other patrons, trying not to seem too inconspicuous.

[quote="Xamvim":1a2g2wqr] After speaking with Miro, Evelyn returns to the taproom to see Val sitting on his own. She gives him a smile and sits down next to him. Using her hand to cover her mouth at one side she whispers into his ear. "I have visited my temple and the news is much the same. They are all getting these fear ridden nightmares that provoke fitful sleep. In tendays the highest of their order will return from a meeting with neighbouring orders and should we be passing this town I will try and gain audience to see if I can learn more." She leans back and adds, "We need to decide on how much we should tell the others. There may be some among us who are not getting these dreams. Withholding this information could work against us... What do you think?" "And if we do tell, who can we truly trust?" she adds hastily.[/quote:1a2g2wqr] Before Val could answer her, Eve was pulled by Miro and they began to dance. The dwarf was quite agile in his dance, unexpected. After they are done, he makes a sign for her to approach. [Assuming Eve goes to Val] "Wow, nice moves" he grins, but then takes a more serious expression. "I think you are right, we should share our informations with the group, but as we don't know who we can trust, we shouldn't tell them we got these informations from divine visions. But if you have a better idea, I will do as you wish, mylady" At this moment, Mitra runs through the inn, Xerxes following her and trying to explain the situation.

"My meeting with the mayor is at four. As for the paper king if I liked him anymore I would lay him out on your chopping block and call him a piece of wood. Well I have to speak with the others of my group so I will have to speak with you at the party tonight. You have my thanks on the help you have offered." Tathza makes his way to the inn room and waits for any of the group to show. If he see's any of the group he waves them over, he does not persue them or make any moves towards them if they do not come to him.

Evelyn listens to Xerxes words, a look of anxiety spreads across her face, then she forces back with calm, "It's ok, It's ok Xerxes," she says hastily, "It was not your fault, thank you for telling me of this..." she spins toward the door leading to the stairs and runs toward it, letting the door swing shut as she passes. As she hurriedly walks down the corridor, she brushes back her hair and straightens her dress. Stopping just before the door, she inhales deeply to calm herself and slowly opens the door, immediately saying in a soft voice, "Mitra? Mitra dear are you there?" She see's the terrified girl, her body just visible under the bed, she continues to talk in a calm soft voice, in the hope Mitra will recognise her. "It's ok, you are safe now my love, I have come for you." she repeats again and again. She kneels down and looks under the bed and tries not to cry out seeing the blood all over her face. She says a soft prayer of healing and slowly caresses the girl's face letting the wounds close up and the raw skin turn the bright pink of healing. She offers a hand and says, "You can come out now my love, it is safe now." [if Mitra comes out] Evelyn takes Mitra into her arms, protectively cuddling her body close to her own. She gently rocks her from side to side, singing an ancient soft song of calm and peacefulness from another time and another place.

When Zinnaella returns to the Inn, she sees Xerxes and Val both in the taproom, and Tathza entering from the back. Tathza waves to the two men and she moves to join them. As they all sit, she asks Xerxes "Mitra came back with you, right?" As long as she gets a nod or yes, she shifts her focus to Tathza and what he has to say.

Tathza speaks to those seated. "I am to meet the mayor at four. I would prefer that anyone who can will come with me to meet the mayor." Tathza says the same to any newcomer from the group. (I guess this is my last post here, going to the mayors )

She weeps, tears flowing freely down her face as even the scars melt back into the natural colour of her skin. Eve feels so warm and full of life, she pulls tightly looking for that motherly protection she has missed althrough the many years as a child, but Eve always provides in abundance. "She was so, familiar." She sobs into Eve's shoulder. "So strange, so angry." She continues to weep, listening to the song till eventually sheer exhaustion and the stress on her brain, makes her fall asleep gently rocked backwards and forwards in the arms of her only love.

Evelyn continues to hold Mitra while she sleeps, gently playing with her hair, uttering soft sounds to encourage sleep. As time passes she is aware that if she does not wake Mitra soon, they will miss their appointment with the mayor, something she is sure Mitra would not want to miss either. She moves her arm and realizes it has cramped for being in that position too long and winces as she gently tries to pump blood back into it. "Mitra dear, " she whispers softly, "It is time to help an ugly princess." she gives Mitra time to wake up slowly and talks with her to be sure she is in the right mind to attend the appoinment.

[You have no idea how tempting it is to put "Just five more minutes, mum."] She sturs gently and leans back against the bed. "Did I fall asleep in the middle of the day again?" She stretches and yawns "Oh excuse me. What a meeting." She looks at her dress and slides the straps back up over shoulders, she plays with the bangles on her arm. "Let me just, spalsh some water on my face." She goes over to the bowl and splashes water on her face careful not to get her hair wet. Once refreshed she turns to Eve again "Come on then lets not keep whoever it is waiting." She smiles as iff nothing untowards has happened.

Evelyn smiles and she too freshens up with the bowl of water. "Come on then,"she says jovially , "Lets get back to the others." Evelyn leads Mitra downstairs, holding onto her arm incase she feels faint. and re-enters the tap room. She sees the others and walks to them. "Everything is ok," she speaks to Xerxes (if he has a worried look on his face) " We are ready to go to this meeting now, thank you for waiting for us." she says softly.

After a minute of standing awkwardly Xerxes takes a seat with Tathza, joined by Zin he answers "yes, we came back together, something happened to her though, she's the one that screamed in the square, Evelyn is up with her now" to Tathza and the rest he says "I'll be there, also I found out that the hidden riders may have once been called the hollow riders who started off by raiding on the roads in the early months of each year, Prejete and the surrounding area doesn't have any troubles except during those few early months. Although within the last month a farmer and his family were killed, soldiers investigated, but no tracks were found and it was apparently a messy affair. Also, riders have been seen near the mines, don't know if it's the guys we are looking for, but if we hear something else about the mines then it might help. what's going on with you guys?" Xerxes orders and eats lunch while talking to the group. Seeing Mitra's in one piece he relaxes. "I'm glad to hear it, I'm just glad you're ok Mitra"

"Well if everyone is ready, let's go to the meeting." Val looks at Xerxes and adds "You got quite some infos, perhaps the mayor will be able to get us some more."

Zinnaella listens to Xerxes' news that he picked up, hoping some of it would match what she had been told - but it didn't, at least not directly. "I also asked around a little. I'm not positive of the source, as this is a different town, but it's possibly good. I was told of bandits in black and red to the south who might be tied to our Riders. And there are tales of those known as Riders far to the east of here around the shores of Prilin and the northern border towns of those shores as well. If they are connected, these Riders may end up being a much larger problem than originally believed. Of course, none of this seems to alter our next steps in retrieving that necklace."

She turns to Xerses and smiles "Of course I'm alright why would I not be? I just fell asleep during the day again. You know my name but I don't know yours?" she offers her hand. After introductions with Xerses, she turns to the others "Well I guess introduction will have to wait, apparently we have a meeting to go to."

Evelyn looks at Val questioning and he gives her a nod, so addresses the group. "I do not wish to distract you from your current quest but there is more information that you may not of heard yet." Evelyn speaks softly. Her voice lowers to just above a whisper so that all who wish to listen would need to lean in closer, "I, we" she corrects herself, looking at Val, "have seen things in our dreams that go beyond just dreams. They seem prophetic in nature." Our nights are often plagued with nightmares that we are being hunted and that time runs out but this is not our prohetic dreams." she whispers. "The first dream," she whispers" involves two men. one has only red pupils for eyes with short dark hair, while the other is grey bearded and old, with thin rimmed glasses. The red pupil man demands to know the location of something, a tablet of some description. but the bearded man refuses, telling the other man to give up the location would put the world at risk. With his refusal he pays with his life. His heart is cut out by the red pupiled man, who chants strange words that causes symbols to appear on the heart." She continues in whispers, " The second dream involves the same red pupiled man, yet this time he is in a cavern, filled with monstrous spiders. But they are no match to his magical power, he almost seems to revel in the destruction of the spiders, bringing them back to life before killing them once more. The man arrives at a door and unlocks it with a spell. Beyond the door is his prize, the tablet, sitting on a pedastal. He grabs it and vanishes. We see him next in a circular chamber of grey stone, with no exits or entrances. He calls forth a red skinned beast out of the fire from the centre. Also in the room is a large circular area of stone with several tables arranged around it, but there is space for many more. The man holds the tablet and places it next to one of the others. We see the town square in Belfor, then suddenly a bright line emanates from just above the ground to over fifty feet high. From this bright line we see energies pour out. Strangely no one in the town square seems to be aware of this, people simply carry on their own way. suddenly we see the same thing happen in different locations all over the realm." she sighs as she finishes, "We are in fall yet we are experiencing a weather that is hotter then our summers. There has been no transition from one season to another. My god Vecer, is the god of transition in all things, and something is very very wrong," her eyes have a haunted look in them as she reveals her concerns.

(Guess I will be posting here) Tathza hears the bits of information. "Seems to me like they are all connected in terms of power. The riders that have been seen could very well be minions and agents set to task that are above the masters. The man in your dreams may be the master or a very powerful and valued agent. He seems to be knowledgable about necromatic powers as well as summoning and binding from what you have said. The fact that he can restore life and destroy again with ease could mean that he is a claric of some power as well. These displays of energy could be rifts or gates and while they interact with our world may not be on our world, that may explain their lack of appearance unless they are not yet powerful enough or on one of the planes bordering our own. None the less they show that they can influence our world without drawing attention to themselves. This is all just thoery and my interpretation." Tathza thinks for a moment. "I find it very strange that such a item of power would be so lightly guarded. One does not need information to find something so long as they know what they seek. Even if it was warded from being found such a item would not be guarded by mere vermin and traps. A single mage of some power could make a more deadly and clever trap. It seems to me that such things are very strange indeed or that someone may have wanted this tablet to be found or used. Someone who may have had a hand in putting it there to begin with. But yet again this is just what I think."

umposlogaas turns up late and sit down and joins them and gos with them to the mayor

"I agree with you Tathza," Evelyn responds, "It does look like they may all be connected in someway. The riders could merely be a diversion for what is really occuring, keeping the towns occupied with raiders, not seeing the true threat." " The man may be a cleric if he has the power to restore life, but through my teachings from Vecer, I know that some mages twisted in the arcane arts of necromancy can also return a semblance of life." she continues. She concludes and addresses the group. " I am pleased we have all shared our own pockets of knowledge and information. The union of knowledge will be our best defence and offense if we are to seek the answer to what is happening to our world."

She listens to the half-drow and Eve discuss potentials of the man from the dreams power. Something strikes her as odd they seem to discuss divine abilities to heal but not any other form of healing. She makes up her mind and speaks "You know clerics, paladins and favored souls are not the only ones with the ability to heal creatures, of course druids and rangers can as well." she gives a nod to the shaman at the table "However those of the bardic wanderer nature can gift a reprieve from wounds, as well as those of the powers of the mind. In fact those of the powers of the mind can manifest other devastating powers to crush creatures much like wizards and sorcerers can." She bows slightly "Of course this is just my observation."

"You are right of course Mitra," but we were discussing the ability to return life from death in its forms, not healing." She smiles.

She gives a coy smile "I was talking about bringing things back from the dead too. More so then even clerics can do, but it has to be done soon after the creature has expired." there is a gleam in her eyes.

"Really?" Evelyn's interest is piqued, " It would be off interest to learn of such a thing, if you are willing to share."

She smiles again "Eve you've... It will be a pleasure to discuss it with you some other time when we aren't quite so pressed for a meeting."

"You are right of course," Evelyn replies, "Let's discuss it in detail later," she gives Mitra a knowing wink and closes the matter.

Sander Jermeka was annoyed and more annoyed than usual. He stood before the doors leading to the Mayor's meeting chamber poised to open them and take the representatives of Belfor's Mayor to meet Klavir Bile and his council. [i:1y4exnka]Damnable dwarf,[/i:1y4exnka] he thought. As if on cue, Sander pushes the double doors open. They swing soundlessly on well oiled hinges. The chamber is well built and of medium size; the exposed beams of the ceiling the hieght of three men. Klavir Bile sits on an ornately carved wooden chair set on a small dais so that the four coucillors, two on each side, sit slightly below him. Sander Jermeka clears his throat. "Master Tathza Sabran and Company," he says loudly and slowly. Each word perfect and ringing out as he strides into the chamber, stepping of to the left half way into the chamber to allow the company, those present, to pass. The Mayor, Klavir Bile, seems unimpressed. He is of average height with brown hair tinged with grey. Well proportioned and lean. He wears near black studded leather armor with a necklace bearing a medallion of a screaming hawk around his neck. A rapier sits across his lap. He waits for Master Sabran to speak. There are four councilors sitting as described. Three of which, two men and a woman, are unkwown. In the second seat to the right, sits the dwarf Miro. A massive double headed battle axe oddly sits flat on the floor at his feet. Although obviously well kept, any who look will know the axe is no gleaming trophy, but a functional piece of equipment. Impressive in size still. Miro, if any watch closely, glances at the axe and frowns, as if displaying sublte annoyance at the weapon's presence. Aside from that, he treats the company with indifference just like the other councilors and the Mayor. But his eyes flash a bit of whimsy. ((It is unimportant whether Tathza makes the whole party accompany him even though he was directed to do so, or if any choose to not go. Sander Jermeka will announce Tathza in that manner whether alone, with half the company, or all of it. Sander, and likely the Mayor, will know the talley. I understand there is unfinished business in the last post, including a discussion of who is going. Respond when ready, there is no rush.))

Tathza enters the room and takes note of all with in it. Taking care in remembering their faces and what they carry. The mayor looks ready for a fight which says much. The mayor was overprepared or not. The dwarf is here but he shows no sign of knowing him. Tathza bows to the mayor and nods to all the others in turn. He has Aknma take in a breath. "I am here as requested. How may I be of service?"

Zinnaella travels to meet the Mayor and the Council along with Tathza. She remains near the back, and silent as usual. She takes half a step to the side as she enters the room, so that she can see everyone up front. Most of them are as she would expect, but she has a double-take with the mayor of this town. [i:2uw01jzn]That one doesn't look so much like a retired adventurer, more like an active member. We'll have to see how this works out.[/i:2uw01jzn] Zinnaella also takes note of the Mayor's medallion on his necklace, trying to recall if she saw any similar symbols around town so far, particularly around the square and the shops set up there.

Evelyn too enters with Tathza and Zinnaella. Her arm is linked around Mitra's, but this time instead of keeping to the back like she would normally do, she stops the right side of Tathza, one step behind as a matter of deference that he is the main speaker, not her. She scans the room, taking in each detail of all those present, when she sees Miro, her eyes light up, not expecting him to be there, but seeing his formal expression, she understands this is not the place to make any more signs or expressions. She listens to the words of the Mayor's aide and to the answer of the drow and she prays in her mind, he has learned, a little by now, on how to deal correctly and politely with those who are superior to him.

As Val enters with the group, he is surprised to see the dwarf from the tavern. He looks at Eve and understands that he should be quiet. Mitra also seemed to have calmed down. [i:vzluht6v]That's a good thing, even if I wonder what happened...[/i:vzluht6v]

Klavir Bile smiles thinly. "I believe it is I whom a service is being asked," the Mayor answers. "Zname sent you to me for his need, not the other way round." The Mayor stands, laying the rapier across the chair, and approaches Tathza. He stops when within an arms reach and looks at each member of the party. His eyes don't linger, but they weigh and remember. "So, Master Sabran," he continues looking directly at Tathza. "How is it that the Mayor of Prejete can be of service to the hand of the thrice known Major Zname? Information? Possibly, although I imagine with such an entourage, you've figured out the next step in hunting down these riders. Surely, hospitality. But the Lonely Miner is the best Tavern this side of the Great River and I doubt my councilor Miro is any less than is spoken of him." "The old mines are northwest of the town some two days ride. There are two groups. Sources say that riders have been seen near the southern one. Usually the count is six, no more than ten." The Mayor paces some as he talks, looking out at the rest of the group. He walks in easy measuring steps. "The land is rough and there are ravines that can be treacherous where the mines have collapsed under the weight of the land. So, it best for me to provide service to completeness." He motions to Sander Jermeka and the man steps out for a moment, returning with Postavi?ka, the gnome tapper from the bar. "Master Postavi?ka's family has lived near and around these parts for some time. He is a well regarded member of Prejete. He can guide you to the mines making sure you'll arrive without an unexpected fall." Stepping back in front of Tathza, the Mayor finishes. "Now, Master Sabran, is there anything more of service I can do for you?"

Postavi?ka gives a smile to the group and a mini wave of the hand to acknowledge himself. He politely waits for the Mayor and the group to finish the discussions and stands near to Sander. H'mmm he thinks to himself so there is that lady beauty, shame she isn't a gnome but passion enough i've had here, travels is what I yearn for now. And that other chap, half drow I think, h'mmm not sure about him, but the others look a good bunch, it should be interesting.

"Well I seem to be in a strange way. You see your man Sander Jermeka told me of two lacations to find items that would prove useful to me and my mission. Yet I find them to be out of supply or a rather questionable nature, it seems that someone with in this very town has taken to hoarding all manner of useful items for themself and so left all others out of options. I simply ask your help in being well supplied before we leave. You are not mayor to a simple village but a town and one that seems to be doing well dispite the recent dangers. Other then that I will leave the rest of my group to speak for themselves and our guide Postavi?ka to lead the way." Tathza keeps a close watch on all with in the room to catch any movement or reaction. He had spoken enough to let them know that he was aware of some of the towns lies and illusions but he gave them no detail to hang on to. He gave but one name and that was of the snake for which he cared none at all of his fate. If the mayor lied he would gain no help from Tathza and let him and his own be damned.

umposlogaas eneters with the rest with bollo trailing behind he stands behind tathza gawpings athe the room and its furnishings clearly not paying attention to the men on the dias

Once the mayor and Tathza have finished their discussions and the tension in the air relinquishes to a more informal one, Evelyn approaches Postavi?ka and bows low to him. "Greetings Sir, My name is Evelyn, I think I saw you in the lonely Miner last night if I recall, it is a pleasure to meet you." she smiles.

Mitra stands next to Eve before Eve walks off to talk to the gnome. She listens to the half-drow make his social fo-pars, and sighs inwardly that he would be a great speaker if he just got over his own arrogance. She waits patiently for an opertune moment to speak to the mayor after the drow has finished his battle of words.

One would expect that the Mayor, despite Tathza laying a gossamer veil over his words, to take offense and provide instruction, but he does not. Instead, he makes a half turn and, expecting him to look at Sander Jermeka, some may be surprised that he looks directly at Miro the dwarf. The dwarf simply returns the stare, left hand in his lap, right hand absently twirling a copper coin, dull on one side and bright on the other. The heat of outside intrudes then, radiating from between man and dwarf. There is so much hostility in those two pair of eyes that warriors could unconsciously reach for their weapons, mages could rummage through remembered words, a wolf could growl low, nearly inaudible, bringing his companion to focus, or a priestess, should one be present, should she remember rough hands and a twirl of feet, could start a prayer of warding or strength, or bring worse from the dark. But the moment is so short, that none of that happens. The Mayor breaks his sight from the dwarf and Miro turns his eyes back to Tathza, his axe still at his feet. "Thank you Master Sabran. I will have to look into this issue personally," he says. "But I am not able to provide you the elixir you seek. Perhaps with your return, I will reward you for bringing this important matter to my attention." "Does any other in the company of Master Sabran have news or requests that may be useful to the town of Prejete or your quarry?", the Mayor asks looking over Tathza.

Postavi?ka says to Evelyn, "It's a pleasure to meet you and I hope to be of use as your guide I have travelled around these parts much, but am always eager to venture more."

Postavi?ka is attracted to Evelyn, but attempts to conceal that, however he does speak to her in a manner that shows he wishes friendship.

before we leave umslopogaas will speak to Postavi?ka " so it seems that you will be guiding us on the next part of this journey, im sure bollo will be thankfull for that!" he says with a wink

[to the Mayor] After he finishes his words Evelyn decides to take a few steps forward toward the Mayor and bows low. In a soft voice she says "Greetings, Sir, gentiles and lady," she addresses the others also, " My name is Evelyn Good and I am a priestess of Vecer. It is likely you have already actioned this but incase you havent I would like to suggest it to you." "A wise person once told me knowledge is our best defence," she momentarily glances at Miro to see if he catches his words,"and what is happening to your town and others is much more than what appears on the surface." You have many faiths in this town, all of whom have a direct connection with higher powers that can aid us. My suggestion is that representatives of the different faiths, put aside any differences they may have with each other and under your guidance, come together and share their own knowledge they may have gained from our curent predicament." "It is possible they have all been given different fragments of a puzzle that may shed more light on what is happening to us. As I have said you have likely already actioned such a thing, but felt it wouldn't hurt to suggest it." She bows and takes a step back [to Postavicka] "I'm sure you will," she smiles, "I'm not sure of what our immediate plans will be but perhaps we can all return to the Lonely Miner to discuss, our next move."

To umslopogaas I am lucky to have bollo with us on this journey. His senses may alert us to danger long before any of us would see it.

he gives umslopogaas a wink back and bollo a friendly pat on the back (if he will let him !)

Tathza takes slow steps back and leaves with as little notice as he can. Damn these humans, they face dustruction and all they care about are their own lives over their people. If it was their fate driven by their own hand then let it be so, but he would not stand for letting others suffer for it as well. The so called mayor had little respect for the dwarf if only for that would Tathza be more then happy to make him regret his actions. Tathza was making his way back to the inn. He would have a private word with Miro concerning this town, the events, and what was to be done about this mayor. How he became a mayor was beyond him as well as the characters that were in the meeting for no reason.

Klavir Bile nods to Evelyn the Good. Appears to soften a bit. "As always, a priestess' words have merit. Many of the temples have sent members abroad to discuss and consider. They are better than loose tongue merchants who simply sow the field in worry. Perhaps when you return there will more answers than questions." He waits for any others to respond and then dismiss the party. At first, it catches everyone off guard expecting for him to just release Master Sabran and Company. Instead, he says each of your names in dismissal. "Tahtza Sabran, drow." "Postavi?ka , gnome." "Umslopogaas , wild man and companion Bollo." "Evelyn Good, Cleric." "Zinnaella. Night Walker." (A polite euphemism) "Master Val'anthis." "Xerxes, sailor." "And, the young woman Mitra." "May your travel be light and the destination reachable," he says in a standard ranger salute. The Mayor knows all your names, which is not suprising, but the way he says them may make some uncomfortable. As if, he's committing each one to memory. Later, Miro will say it was a foolish display of power. Important and the dangerous occasionally slip and, when they do, it is arrogance that trips them up. ((Some may want to post still to the Mayor. Please continue. I will respond, but wanted to post his closure now.))

Postavi?ka thinks yes gnome, gnome i am but i feel always always destined for more....

Xerxes stood in silence at the back of the group the whole time, standing, listening, watching. When finally Klavir bodes his farewell and calls him a sailor Xerxes' eyes narrow and he stares hard into him, committing him to memory. [i:gdevgey2]let's be honest, I haven't been trying over hard, but this bothers me, time to step it up a notch...[/i:gdevgey2] Xerxes waits for the group to leave and then follows them outside where he says he'll catch up with them back at the inn and walks off down the street.

Miro gets to his feet and leans over, picking up his massive axe preparing to leave with the party. The Mayor arches an eyebrow. "We've business Councilor," he says. Miro waves a hand at him in frustration. "No, Klavir," the dwarf says, using the Mayor's first name. "You've business. I've a party to begin." "Don't worry," he continues, "I understand that you regrettably can not attend but wish me warm tidings anyway." Striding to the door, he passes Sander Jermeka and give the paper king a smile full of sharp teeth. Sander takes a step back. Into the sunlight the dwarf stands on the first step to the administrative building as the party collect to leave or go about business. "Now friends," he says. "Wasn't that pleasant. Time to ease into the night with ale, wine, women (he winks at Mitra), and good company. What say you? This dwarf needs a some merriment." Laughing, he sides up to Tathza. "Stop by the bookseller," he says quietly. "Tell her it's time she moved closer to my place. I'll send someone to help pack her things. I'll share a bit of Elven wine with you once its done."

Tathza gives the dwarf a look but nods in agreement. "I will do as you ask" Tathza moves off from the group and makes his way to the bookstore at a brisk pace to warn the woman. He later returns to enjoy the party.

Zinnaella remained quiet and gave only a slight nod in response to her name being called by the Mayor. When it was all finished, she headed back to the Inn with the majority of the party.

Mitra felt it was quite an honour to be mentioned last on the list. She bowed slightly to the mayor after he said her name. She waited for the others to begin to filter out, and followed Eve'y outside into the heated day, that actually felt cooler than the heat that was produced in the room with all the other egos. She would have to speak to the mayor another time when he was not surrounded by his council of silent witnesses and her companions. The dwarf followed out after a short time and spoke of a party that was happening. The thought of a party was comforting, at least it would be nice to unwind and hopefully the others would as well. She had only a hazy memory of what had happened since falling asleep next to the fountain in the city, but bits and pieces of the conversation had sparked off memories of the previous meeting with a mayor, an ugly girl, a wagon ride, being attacked by dogs, and the young soldier at the front gate. Eventually it would all come back but it would take time. She took Eve'y hadn and gave it a squeeze and smiled at her. She moved her hair out of her eyes and behind her ears. "Maybe a party is just what we need, and you can bring me up-to-date on what I have missed as my memory is slightly hazzy on the details." She lent in and kissed Eve'y on the lips, "Besides I'm thirsty and need a good drink."

problem fixed - thanks than

Evelyn leaves the Mayor's office with the group, and ponders on the significance if any of the Mayor calling their names the way he did. She enters the taproom with Mitra and is amazed on how the tavern has transformed to a party atmosphere. "I think I will freshen up for this evening's activities, " she says softly with a smile and walks to the door that leads to their room.

The party would no doubt be starting soon and the day was unbareably hot so the thought of freshening up and maybe a change of clothes was a great idea. "I'll come with you." Mitra followed Eve'y up the stairs and once in their shared room she delvered through her bag till she found a black dress that was held on one shoulder and was suitable for a party and evening wear. She put it in her shoulder bag as well as a pair of sandals. "I'm going to go have a bath at the bath house. Would you like to come?" She asked Eve'y.

"That's a great idea," Evelyn replies. She looks at Mitra's nice spare dress then looks down on her own. There are repair marks and scuffs from the recent combat and travelling. "Maybe we can pop into the market as we pass, I could do with a new black dress." she suggests, "Would you help me choose a pretty one?"

She smiles another warm smile "Of course we can my dear, and I'm sure we can find a jaw droping little number even in this town." She looks out the window and judges the time from how low the sun is in the sky. "However it is a little short on notice, it's almost the end of the market day, and I'm not sure if we will find a dress that is premade that will fit your measurements exactly." She rummages through her bag again and blues out a small stone no larger than a pebble, it gleams slightly as the suns rays bounce off of it's surface. "So I guess we will have to cheat. Come on lets go get washed and I will create your dress afterwards." She slips the stone in her satchel as well then makes her way to the door and holds it open for Eve'y.

Evelyn eyes the shiney stone as Mitra places it in her bag, she does not know what sort of spell Mitra could be planning on using, so her interest is naturally piqued. "..OK.." she smiles not certain what Mitra could mean, 'by cheating'. "Just one thing,"she adds as she walks to the door and clasps Mitra's hand. "Promise me this new dress wont disappear at midnight!" she laughs ,allowing Mitra to lead her to the baths. as She reaches the door she adds, "Maybe Zinnaella would like to join us?" "What do you think Mitra, should we ask her?"

She flashes Eve'y a wicked smile "I'm not promising anything, but if you not wearing it at midnight that might because of another reason." They step out the door and into the corridor, then she looks at Eve'y she mouths the word Zinnaella over and over looking quizical "Erm... Zinnaella, who is that? I'm guessing it's one of our new companions. More than likely the other woman that was with us, at the meeting as the Mayor named everyone there it was handy to know the names of our companions." she follows on to say "I'm sure she would appreciate a bath, this weather is so incredibly hot." She pops back into the room and fishes out another stone from her bag and puts it in her satchel. She rushes out the room and back to Eve'y "Just in case, this Zinnaella, needs a dress made as well." She makes her way down to the mainroom and waits for Eve'y to speak to Zinnaella.

Postavi?ka is running about the taproom, he thinks to himself: Still stuff to do, to do, better make sure everythings right for the party, just finish getting this ready then I finish work here.

"What a good idea," Evelyn replies, "But dont tell her," she whipsers in a conspiracy tone, "Let's make it a surprise, and leave it for her when she gets out the bath. " It will be like a fairy tale story." Evelyn continues in hushed jovial tones, " Zinnaealla the sweet girl who works hard and is often in the background, without a prince charming, turned into a beautiful princess, the centre of attention for the royal ball" she says wistfully. They enter the taproom and see Postavicka rushing around trying to make the party ready. If he looks there way she give him a smile, acknowledging his hard work. Evelyn looks for Zinnaella [if she finds her there then this happens] Evelyn approaches Zinnaella and says softly, "Zinnaella, we are going to the baths to freshen up before the party. Would you lke to join us?" [if shes not there Eve and Mitra will wait about for a few mins incase she turns up then leave for the baths.]

Postavi?ka smiles back at Evelyn and says 'Just finishing off my list of jobs so that the party goes with a swing. Then that's the end of my work here."

Val follows the group into the tavern. Preparations are being made for Miro's party. He sees the gnome who will be there guide working. [i:1zc16bsl]Postivack... Postavick... Argh, I will have to find a nickname for this one ![/i:1zc16bsl] "Hey there, need some help ?"

Xerxes comes in some time later, freshly bathed, in fresh clothes, and a shaved head. He nods to anyone he knows that's around and after putting away some things in their room joins them in the taproom, he orders cider if they have it, otherwise he's drinking watered down wine.

Val sees Xerxes and joins him. "Ah cider, what a good idea !" "Make it two please." he orders to the waitress Turning back to Xerxes he asks "So, could tell me what happened with Mitra when you went shopping ? I only saw her running to the room but don't want to bother lady Evelyn."

Postavi?ka finishes his work finally and gets himself an ale. He see's val and Xerxes two of the members of the party he is to lead and walks over to their table. "Hi, mind if I join you for a drink, i've been running around all day and I need to take the weight of my feet and have a good ole pint of ale."

[I suppose that Xerxes doesn't object] "Sure, take a seat. Won't you join us with a cider instead ?" After a while Val asks the gnome "Are there any competitions or games planned for tonight ? I could use some distraction"

Evelyn slips under the water, allowing her silver hair to fan around her. As she submerges herself, she closes her eyes and shuts out the outside world and all thoughts tied to it. The day had been an interesting day, filled with excitement, anxiety, worry and puzzles. Silence became sublime and all she could feel was her own heart beating in her chest. She emptied her mind until, she could feel her lungs beginning to strain, then slid up in the large bath, breaking the surface, sending some of the lovely water over the edge onto the blue and white tiled floor. Keeping her eyes closed she leans her head back against the bath side and feels a hand slowly slide up her body. She opens her eyes to see Mitra smiling at her. She returns the smile and says, "Are you looking forward to the party tonight?" "Im sure Miro's friends have something very special planned for him." she adds softly. "I guess we should go soon, but this is such a lovely bath, it is hard to leave!"

Tathza walked into the party. He had did as the dwarf asked and prepared for the party. It was impressive from how it looked like before but then again Tathza was not one for such things or at least not with the group he was in. He would speak with the dwarf later and had no intention of getting in the way. He took a seat in a corner at an empty table and cast a spell that had little use other then for entertainment. That was what he would add to the party. Tathza uses the spell to cause little music sounds and small glowing balls to hover over the heads of people near the ceiling. He just had to keep his mind on the spell for the most part until it expired. If the party wore on he could always use his spell like abilities to add to the party as well.

The water was clensing as she slide into the pool. She let out a heavy sigh as the warm water began to relax her muscles. She clamped her hand over her nose and then dunked her head under the water and pulled her other hand through her hair letting the water seperate the strangs. She lifted her head again and looked over to Eve'y who had dunked her head fully under the water. Mitra began to rub out the deeper aches in her muscles. She heard a splash as water hit the tiles on the outside of the pool. Eve'y had surfaced and was relaxing with her eyes closed on the side. She slide over to Eve'y and ran a hand up her leg and across her body then began to massage her shoulders. She nods to the first question "Yep it should be good fun." To the third statement she pushes harder on Eve'y shoulder muscles raising a pleasurable sigh and whispers in her ear "Eve'y I wish sometimes you would just relax, and stop rushing around." She begins to work her hands down Eve'y spine pressing expertly like she has done this many time before. "We just got here a good hour soak then a good hour to get dressed and spruse ourselves up a bit, then we can be fasionably late." She bit gently on Eve'y ear "And looking drop dead gorgeous." she smiled and started to work on Eve'y lower back.

To Val "The cider sure is good here but I fancied an ale. H'mmm games yes there's some drinking games, i'll be taking part."

After finishing in the bath and leaving Eve'y panting, Mitra climbs out of the bath grabing some cloth to wipe herself down, and smiling a sweet innocent smile to Eve'y as she disappears into a seperate room where they left there clothes and belongings. She dries herself with the cloth and then pulls out one of the stones from her satchel. She rolls it in between her fingers till it is held in front of her eyes, she spins it round watching as the sunlight glimers off of it's dark blue surface. She reaches out with her mind and taps gently on the side of the stone, it reacts by the tiniest crack forming on the surface. She delvers within and finds knowledge of a power that she has never used before. The power of creation to make something exist from nothing but the power of the mind, it was exciting to see but she would never be able to use it other than through these stones. She pulled the power out of the stone and as she did the stone went perfectly black in her hand, she tucked it back into the satchel and then took her time to play with the power. She first brought about the material black silk that would breath with the body and move with it's movements. She then fasioned the length of the dress, the waist size and bust were easily remembered she had memorised Eve'y body every curve and every bump. She then styled it to be a single shoulder strap that would be the opposite of her dress, with the same plunging back. She imagined the material draping and finished off the details. When she opened her eyes before her laid in her hands was the very same dress, down to the most minute of details. She placed the dress on the side and then took out the other stone in her bad, doing the same as before she extracted the power from the stone and using the same material as last time she fasioned a dress for the other part of this trio. This dress she fasioned with two thin straps and the same plunging back to the dress. When she opened her eyes the dress sat in her hands as perfect as the last. She sliped the stone back into her satchel, and sliped her dress out. She then pulled it down over her head and slide the strap onto her shoulder. She also took out the new bangles that she must have bought at some point and slide them up the opposite arm. She smoothed out the material, and when Eve'y came into the room drying herself down also, before her was the dress of her dreams sat on the bench, and the woman that loved her doing her hair, and humming a soft melody to herself.

finally dry, Evelyn enters the changing area and immediately sees the black silk dress lying on the bench. She runs to it, her eyes shining with amazement, that such an elegant, beautiful dress could be hers. Picking it up she says, "Oh Mitra this is wonderful!" With excitement, she slips the dress on and turns her body about trying to view it from different angles. "I really never expected you would make something so beautiful," she gasps. Her smile reaches her eyes and she runs to Mitra and embraces her, "Thank you," she whispers.

Mitra hugs Eve'y back "Don't thank me it is simple a pleasure that I found you my love." she kissed Eve'y "Your the light of my life, and I couldn't have you turning up to a party with nothing to wear." She looks down at the other dress "That one is for Zinnaella I hope she likes it." Motra goes back to dressing her hair up in a bun on the back of her head and stuck to thin slick red sticks through her hair. Once she has finished she pats the dress straight again. "Well ready whenever you are."

Zinnaella had followed the others back to the inn and had moved into a back corner to relax in the cool shadows for a little while. ((Hide check))[dice:3ufxah0q]1d20+9[/dice:3ufxah0q] From her spot, she sees Evelyn descend the stairs and look around, like she was looking for someone. [i:3ufxah0q]Well most everyone is back now...[/i:3ufxah0q] she thinks, and she moves up out of the shadows silently to Evelyn's side. "You are you looking for this time?" she asks, her voice a true sound of curiosity. ((Move silently check))[dice:3ufxah0q]1d20+9[/dice:3ufxah0q] Upon being asked to join the duo, she raises a eyebrow slightly, but then lets it drop just as quickly. "It would be nice to clean up, of course I'll join you." She then travels with them to the baths. Once there, she slips out of her dirty and dusty, but well fitting, clothing and into the baths. [i:3ufxah0q]Of course, I'll just be getting back into them later, but at least I'll feel a little cleaner,[/i:3ufxah0q] she thinks to herself as she leans her head back, letting her raven dark hair spread out in the water. She hears the occasional splash, giggle and moaning come from the other two, but keeps her head back - giving the two of them as much privacy as possible in these baths. After a little while, she realizes that things have gone quiet and she peeks an eye open to looks where the other two women had been enjoying themselves. However, they are now gone - but wet tracks indicate that they simply got out of the water and went to get dressed. [i:3ufxah0q]Well, I guess it's about that time then,[/i:3ufxah0q] Zinnaella thinks as she climbs out as well, grabbing a towel and starting to dry herself off. She heads to the room where the other two went and pauses, knocking softly on the door. "Evelyn, Mitra?" ((Once she's directed to enter and is offered the dress...)) Zinnaella looks over the dress, her eyes wide. "It.. it's beautiful. Thank you so much Mitra." She tries it on, finding it a rather good fit. She looks at it, twirling once to see how it feels. She then looks to the other two, with the start of a blush. "How can I thank you? I've ... I've never had anything like this before." Zinnaella stammers a little, overwhelmed by the gift.

Joined by Val and Postavi?ka Xerxes cheers' them. "How are you doing Val? pleased to meet you Posta. about Mitra, I don't know, one minute we were dancing, the next she was screaming and then she was running. I chased her to here. I spoke with Evelyn about it and she went up to see her and then before long they both came down. I can't explain it, I have no idea what happened" he says with a frown. After a few minutes and a look around he whispers "there's something off, I got the hair standing on my neck from our meeting with the mayor, he seems like a sly captain at best, a dangerous one more likely, I'm keeping my drinking to a minimum in case anything goes down, I just have a bad feeling" Xerxes nervously thumbs a trench dagger sheathed against his thigh while nursing his drink and keeping a watch around the pub. Finally he sighs and says "maybe I'm just being crazy, so where are you from Val?"

"Well, I was raised in the woods, like my of my kind." he answers Xerxes. But before he continues the waitress is back. "Ah, there are our drinks ! Cheers !" Noticing that some seem to be playing games, Val decides to balance balance his goblet. [dice:5tfm657o]20+4[/dice:5tfm657o] Val has no problem doing his little trick and soon, some other amateurs are found to imititate it, with more or less sucess. ((DC is 10 if I remember correctly, and we only roll the alcohol DC at the END of the game ? Not sure I understand it, so correct me if I'm wrong))

Evelyn admires her new black silk dress, twirling from side to side. Her cheeks redden as she suddenly realises it exposes a lot more skin than she would normally. Her hands instinctively start rubbing the scars on her wrists as if trying to hide them and she notes Mitra has some bangles on one arm so has an idea. Concentrating as Mitra had taught her, she wills the tatoo on the small of her back to slide around her body and down one of her bare wrists. The delicate symbol of Vecer taking prominence with the words in a spidery script, '[i:jfg45cur]death is a beginning.'[/i:jfg45cur] wrapped around most of her wrist. The remainder of the delicate design conveniently covers the scars, so much so, that she is satisfied with the result. She then ties up her silver hair, as nice as she can and wrapping some of the hair to the side of her face tightly around her finger, she creates two ringlets of hair. She then shortens her silver necklace of Vecer away from her cleavage, closer to her neck line, allowing a single strand of silver chain to fall down the back of her neck. Borrowing a polished metal mirror of one of the attendants, she applies some make up and rose petal perfume, that she has in her bag. Although normally not so vain, she feels the dress is so elegant and beautiful with its delicate detail and single strap that she cant let the dress down. When down she turns to Mitra and grins, "ready." [upon seeing Zinnaella wearing her new dress] Evelyn walks up to Zinnaella and admires the dress's elegance on the pretty rogue. "Turn around" she instructs, making sure the dress sits well on her body. Frowning as if something is wrong, she pushes Zinnaella's breasts up closer together saying, "thats better" with a mischievious smile, "Prince charming will approve im sure," she says with a wink. She takes some containers and a small bottle out of her bag and offers it to Zinnaella, "I have some make up and perfume you can borrow if you wish." she say, "not many colours though," she adds. [edit: yes DC for alcohol save is at end when finish game 10+number of rounds]

"If you wish," Evelyn adds to Zinnaella, "I can apply your make up for you?"

Mitra applies a little make up, around her eyes, her cheeks and her nose. She then applies some perfume to her wrists and to her neck. She then looks to Zinnaella who looks so much better in a dress than her normal unflatering clothes. She brushes Zinnaella's hair out then threads it into a pony tail. "Their now you look like a princess, and if you can't find your Prince Charming, then we approve." She says with a smile. She rummages through her bag again and pulls out a stuffed bear that is in the shape of a rabbit. "I guess we should get a memory of this then that we can share." She unbuttons the back of the bear and pulls a finger sized crystal which is a rosey colour. She puts the crystal down on the floor and says "Come on Mr Wuffles your safe here." After a few seconds of doubt the crystal wobbles and four legs made of crystal seem to extend out of it's body. It rights itself and you would swear it seems to be looking up at you. It skitters accross the floor and halfway up the wall. She gathers the girls together positioning Zinnaella in the middle then Eve'y on one side and herself on the other. "Okay now you have to wait a minute but I promise it will be worth it." You feel a little silly stood staring at the crystal on the wall and after what feels like a long minute, Mitra finally relaxes and collects the crystal from the world "Thank you Mr Wuffles." She gently rubs the crystal which changes through a rainbows worth of colours, she then slips it back inside the stuffed rabbit. She reaches out with her mind and tocuhes both Eve'y's and Zinnaella's minds, she then shares with them the view she got from Mr Wuffles of the three of them looking amazing in their dresses. [i:nctdw9ls]There you go you should be able to see what Mr Wuffles saw. Shale we make a move back to the tavern then. I think we will be suitably fasionably late.[/i:nctdw9ls] [Autohypnosis skill check taking 10 which is enough to memorise a scene. She then Mind linked with both Evelyn and Zinnaella for two power points and shared the picture. Yeah Wireless technology eat your heart out when you have a Telepath]

[[im not sure if we are on the same timeline anymore but with Val balancing a goblet of drink on his head...this was too hard to resist.. if someone has an issue with the timing of this i will delete the post]] With Zinnaella in the centre and Evelyn and Mitra, either side ,with their arms linked around around hers, they return to the tavern. When inside, Evelyn sees Val balancing a goblet of drink on his head and supresses a laugh. Adjusting her dress, she guides the trio up to him, from behind, letting the rose perfume waft in his direction. When coming into his view she says softly, "Hello Val, are you having fun?" she says with a smile.

Val is surprised to hear Eve saying that, she seemed quite preoccupied lately. So he grins at her question. "Of course ! It would be a shame to not having fun during a dwarf's party, don't you think so?" After a few seconds of thinking he adds "Hey, are making fun of me ? I bet you can't handle it as good !" He smiles, hoping his little "provocation" would make it's effect. [Edit:] Val realized that the 3 women wore party dresses, but didn't make any comment about that. To be honest, he didn't care too much. Even if they all looked fine, Val wasn't really attracted by this unnatural beauty. The parfume however did make it's effect. [Val will take a -1 penalty next round due to the little distraction]

[quote="Xamvim":ytjikzsr][[this was too hard to resist.. if someone has an issue with the timing of this i will delete the post]][/quote:ytjikzsr]((Personally, I think it's too perfect an opportunity to let something like the time space continuum interfere. )) "Thanks for the offer Evelyn, but I can manage. I may not wear any normally, but a little does help when serving drinks." Zinnaella applies only a little make-up, letting it highlight her features more than hide or overpower any. Once she is finished, she waits while Mitra, whom she notes is sounding and acting more secure and mature than before, prepares another surprise in the form of a memory flash. [i:ytjikzsr]Wow, that is amazing[/i:ytjikzsr] she can't help but think as Mitra shares the picturesque scene with her and Evelyn. At Mitra's thought suggestion to head back, Zinnaella holds up a finger to wait a moment. Zinnaella returns to her stack of gear and equipment, collecting a sheath and dagger from within her items that she had hidden from being collected by those out front. She checks the belt on the strap and the clasp holding the dagger inside. She then rests her left foot on a seat and hikes her dress up some to return the dagger to its hiding place - inverted on her thigh. She adjusts it a couple times, trying to find that line between concealed and yet comfortable. After a little while, she leaves it in place finally satisfied. She then looks back to the other two and with a slight smirk gives them a shrug as she returns to them. "A girl can't be too careful, can she?" She then falls in line with them as they gather all their items and return to the party. ((Take 2 minutes to take 20 on the Slight of Hand check to conceal a dagger, for a total of 31 on the check.))

[when Zinnaella hides her dagger] Evelyn is impressed with Zinnaella's clever concealment of her dagger. "That is very clever," she says to her, "Let's pray you dont need to use it though," she smiles. [to Val's response when Eve walks up to him] Evelyn tries to hide the disappointment in her eyes. [i:2i2eeegg]'he didnt even notice!!'[/i:2i2eeegg] she thinks to herself. Her eyes harden, and a feeling of annoyance is communicated to the other two girls through their mind link, she disguises her thoughts with a thin smile, "I dont think it would be wise to risk damaging this lovely new gift from Mitra, so soon in the day." she says matter of factly with little humour. "Perhaps later" she adds and turns to the two girls, "Come let us a have civilised drink and let these boys play their games," she says smiling. She bows to Val and the others and leads the other two to the bar.

Inside the deepest part of the many layers of Mitra's mind she jumps for joy. She had beaten the elf, without having to resorting to blowing his head off. In her fore mind she felt compassion for Eve'y. [i:1ur75i67]You never need him to pay you attention my love. I think you look beautiful, like a demi-goddess. No need to dwell on it, best we enjoy ourselves.[/i:1ur75i67]

[i:16ed20gi]Hmmm, hope she isn't one of those girls...[/i:16ed20gi] Trying to impress a little more, Val tries balance two cups simultaneously. ((DC 12; -1 due to Eve distraction, doesn't look as dumb as standing on one leg ^^)) [dice:16ed20gi]20+4-1[/dice:16ed20gi] His graceful agility makes it seem likes it's an easy task, at least for him.

Eve sits by the bar as she waits to be served, glancing over to Val who continues to play his game blissfully unaware, while her disappointment solidifies. [i:1w85lyai]'Can he really be that ignorant or was he worried about the effect on someone else?' she thinks then looks to Mitra , 'oh what am I doing!.. I'm risking everything for.... for a distraction!...' she chides herself in her thoughts.[/i:1w85lyai] She smiles at Zinn and Mitra and says through their mindlink.[i:1w85lyai] "So what would you both like to drink, im buying this."[/i:1w85lyai] ' ((added italic to mindlink speech))

She smiles trying to cheer Eve'y up. [i:wyf8x6de]I will have the house white, if they don't have one I'll take a dry white.[/i:wyf8x6de]

Evelyn takes Mitra's and Zinnaella's requests and buys them their drinks. As they sit and drink their wines she asks through the mindlink, [i:13aymy5l]'did anyone else pick up on the odd manor the Mayor addressed us as we left..do you think there is any significance? and what do you suppose is the cause and real danger in the relationship between the Mayor and Miro?'[/i:13aymy5l]

Zinnaella goes with the two women, determined to enjoy their company as long as she can. [i:3nnh8suk]I'll have whatever you two think is good, at least for starters,[/i:3nnh8suk] she thinks to them, a smile on her face. As they enjoy sipping on their drinks, Evelyn turns the 'conversation' to their earlier meeting with the Mayor and council. [i:3nnh8suk]The Mayor seemed like a rogue to me, based on dress and his weapon choice. And based on the medallion and how informed he was, I would guess he is a member of a local guild, if not the leader. Strange thing is, I think there are at least two groups in this town, as the person I met in the marketplace was with a group that had a different symbol.[/i:3nnh8suk] As Zinnaella fills them in, she twists the new bracelet she picked up earlier, tapping the bear charm on it to make her point. [i:3nnh8suk]If I had to guess, Miro and the Mayor are either old rivals, or old companions who had a falling out. I got the feeling they were on opposite sides of something, but I have no idea what.[/i:3nnh8suk] Zinnaella gets a kick out of sending these thoughts to the two women, while sipping on her drink. [i:3nnh8suk]Heh, better than any ventriloquist I've seen,[/i:3nnh8suk] she adds at the end more to herself than anything - but still sending it through the mindlink as she hasn't figured out how to separate the sent thoughts from her own yet.

Evelyn thinks on what Zinnaella tells them. [i:20g0wtw0]'yes it is better than a ventriloquist' [/i:20g0wtw0]Evelyn smiles, [i:20g0wtw0]'thank you for this information Zinn, I did not like the look they gave each other back in that meeting. It looked like the last strands of restraint between them were beginning to tear.'[/i:20g0wtw0] [i:20g0wtw0] 'Now lets talk about something more fun' [/i:20g0wtw0] she adds through the mindlink [i:20g0wtw0]'Do you think there are some games we can play?'[/i:20g0wtw0]

Evelyn looks about the tavern and sees the revelry around her. The atmosphere is lively, and lighthearted. The taproom seems crammed already with people yet she can still see more people arrive to join in the dwarf's celebrations. Scanning the room she spies a number of different games being played. In one corner some thick barreled men throw an axe at a barrel much to the amusment of the onlooking crowd. In another corner a number of tall wooden statues have been placed in a triangular formation, while a young halfling rolls a cloth wrapped ball that bounces haphazardly into the legs of one of the onlookers much to his chargrin. Drinking is plentiful and Evelyn can see more than one person who seems to be mimicking Val's newly invented drinking game. Some gather just to chat, others are dancing close to a group of musicians. One group catches her eye as several men and women crowd around a large woman holding 3 small objects. Her interest piqued she decides to investigate leaving Zinnaella and Mitra by the bar. As she steps closer to the table she stands on tiptoe to get a better view. The woman addresses the group, before her a three small wooden cups turned upside down. She lifts one cup and places a grubby looking ball under one cup and deftly moves the three cups in a complicated dance around each other on the table. to the onlooking crowd she says, "Where the ball goes no-one really knows, make your guess and I will show." A thick jawed man places a silver piece in front of one of the cups and gestures to her. "Are you sure?" the woman asks with a mischievous glint in her eye. The man nods and the woman lifts the marked cup to reveal nothing there. the man groans, then nudges his friend and says, "Well it looks like you will be buying next round eh!" The woman turns the other two cups and naturally the last one turned reveals the ball. She replaces the ball and once more sends them through their complex dance. "Any takers?" she asks when done. None step forward, so Evelyn makes a small cough and says softly, "I will try" the crowd part and let her sit down as she focuses on the cups. She was sure she had watched the large woman's movements closely but it all went in a blur. Taking a silver piece out of her purse, she places it down on the table in front of one of the cups and looks expectantly at the woman. The woman spots the symbol on her arm and says cheekly "A priestess down on her luck?" "No," Evelyn replies, "one who knows life is full of choices, this being one of them." she points to the cup to enforce her choice. (both numbers need to be same to be correct) [dice:ghacy7o1]3[/dice:ghacy7o1] [dice:ghacy7o1]3[/dice:ghacy7o1] [woot] The woman turns over the cup and the crowd cheer as the ball is revealed. The woman slaps down a silver piece over hers and whispers, "beginners luck or something more?" she says with a glint in her eye. Evelyn takes her coins and stands, and replies softly "Not all choices are the right ones, but make enough and one will certainly be correct." "Beginners luck" she adds with a wink and strolls over to the group by the skittles.

As Evelyn takes her leave to check one of the games, Zinn looks to Mitra. [i:1wjec2ll]I have to see if I can show up Val, you wanna watch?[/i:1wjec2ll] Zinnaella moves over to Val, likely with Mitra in tow. "So, is this a competition - or are you just trying to show off?"

Val looks at Zinn. "I am just enjoing my free time. Care to join ?"

"Why not, it is a party after all. Just tell me how it works. Looks like your just doing increasingly difficult balances while drinking, right?" Zinnaella balances her wine glass on the back of her hand, even though it starts to slide she recovers and keeps it in place. She then tilts her hand slightly to take a drink from it, without grabbing the glass. ((Balance checks, DC 10, and then 12))[dice:2d8eo2z9]1d20+11,1d20+11[/dice:2d8eo2z9] "That good enough to catch up to you?" She asks, with a smile.

"You really are a quick learner. Should we increase the challenge ?" Val takes a 3rd glass and starts to balance one in each nad and one on top op his head. (DC14) [dice:cy7rv6o9]20+4[/dice:cy7rv6o9] "Show me what you got !" he brags, still smiling.

Zinnaella give an approving nod, "Well done." In response, she grabs the glass from Val's head and places in on top of her wine glass (which she keeps balanced on the back of her hand). "And let's make things interesting," she uses her left hand to grab her wine glass out from under the second glass, catching and balancing the second glass on the back of her hand. As the second glass falls, it wobbles only slightly - but remains upright, not a drop spilling. ((Balance checks DC 14 and 16))[dice:2gppezv8]1d20+11,1d20+11[/dice:2gppezv8]

Val is fascinated. "I bet you trained quite hard for this little move, didn't you ?" His smiles gets bigger, I doubt I can top that, but luck favors the bold !" He lightly throws his glass in the air, during which he grabs one of Zinn's and tries to get the throwed one on top. [dice:wis5q2g6]20+4[/dice:wis5q2g6] [i:wis5q2g6]It worked ![/i:wis5q2g6] Trying to hide his surprisement, Val grins.

"Trained to flip glasses? Nah, just natural ability and time spent moving mugs to and from tables." Seeing Val perform his latest trick, Zinnaella pauses to think for a moment and takes another sip of her wine. After a moment, she smirks "Ok, let's try this one next." Zinnaella stands up on the seat of her chair, and leans it back a little. With one foot on the back and one on the seat, she balances the chair on it's two back feet. ((Movin' on up - DC 18 now.))[dice:15jejj6f]1d20+11[/dice:15jejj6f] It takes her a moment to find a good spot, but she manages. Smiling at Val, she takes another sip of her drink while precariously balanced.

"Wow, you really are gifted ! I sinerly never tried something like that..." He tries to copy Zinn's moves, quite unsure how to do it. [dice:2x481zod]20+4[/dice:2x481zod] He has no idea how it managed it, but he copied Zinn's trick without major problem. "Not that hard" he lies, sweating.

Evelyn senses excitement coming over the mindlink from Mitra and Zinnaella so wanders over to see what is happening. She sees the group supporting Zinnaella and Val, who each inturn are making more and more outrageous stunts with several glasses, taking a drink from one each time. She eyes them both wondering what will happen next.

Zinnaella frowns for a second, looking down for a moment. [i:vk6ky0k7]How the hell? I can't believe his luck,[/i:vk6ky0k7] she sends through the mind link to Mitra, and Evelyn. She then turns her head back up to face him, a slight smirk on her face now. "Your luck has to run out soon Val. You can always admit defeat at any time." She slides her right foot down to the base of back of the chair so that it is half on the back, and half on the seat. She then bends her left knee, putting her left leg behind the other and off the chair so she is now balancing the chair on two legs, while standing on one leg. ((DC 20 check, come on dice...))[dice:vk6ky0k7]1d20+11[/dice:vk6ky0k7]

Evelyn claps her hands smiling at Zinnaella's performance. [i:2nxvdew5]'I imagine his luck will run out soon, hes doing very well though isnt he?'[/i:2nxvdew5] she voices over the mindlink

Val is impressed by Zinn's balance. "Good to know you on our said." He wants to abandon as this seems way over his league but at that moment he's notices that Eve is watching. [i:ui72ychr]Great... What should I do now ?[/i:ui72ychr]

Zinnaella looks at Val, tuning out everything else in the tavern, other than the voices in her head. [i:31ufp6ng]Yeah, unfortunately,[/i:31ufp6ng] she replies to the sent thought. She takes another sip of her wine and notices that it is almost gone. "Better hurry and decide Val, my drink is getting low."

Knowing that this was too dangerous as he was feeling more and more dizzy from the cidre and also hoping that Eve would apreciate honesty more than blind overestimation, Val gave up. "Sorry, that surely is something I can't do; and breaking some bones before goint to the mission seems more dumb than bold. I declare forfeit, for you have proven yourself quite agile, more than any human I know." "What do you want to drink next ? I pay." ((Fort check DC 7+5 rounds= 12)) [dice:2x14mstq]20+3[/dice:2x14mstq] ((EDIT: OMG, I could have done it if that was the roll for balance 16+4=20 ^^))

Zinnaella smiled, [i:1in9zyup]Finally![/i:1in9zyup] she thought but she said out loud, "As you wish." She carefully lowered the chair back to the ground and stepped off the chair, the solid ground feeling a little strange to her after balancing for a while. "I must admit, you did well yourself. Here's to knowing when to quit." Zinnaella raises what's left of her drink to Val in a toast, and then finishes off the last couple swallows. ((Fort save - DC 13 I think, DC 7 base + 6 rounds))[dice:1in9zyup]1d20+1[/dice:1in9zyup] Zinnaella smiles a little bigger. "Ask Evelyn, this wine she ordered last time is good."

[i:2z2jl2ho]"Well done! you were amazing!' [/i:2z2jl2ho] Evelyn sends over the link. She steps toward Val and says, "I think what you did was brave," she smiles, "Zinnaella's dexterity is exceptional and it is hard to admit defeat sometimes if pride is allowed to swell." "you are a gracious loser, Val," acknowledging Zinnaella's comment, she adds, "Yes, OK, let me buy you a drink. Consider it a runner up prize." she smiles and walks to the bar.

"Only a fool would not know his own limits, and I'm glad that you both understand it. I bet you are worthy companions." he says without really realizing. Val thinks a bit and blushes. "A runner up prize ? But I think I already drunk enough for now. I would prefer a dance, mylady." "Only.. if you want... of course." he adds, stuttering. While waiting for an answer he orders a drink for Zinn. "For our winner !"

Evelyn pauses and glances to Mitra and Zinnaella uncertain. [i:vv8oe0ls]'I don't know what to do....Should I accept?..'[/i:vv8oe0ls] she sends over the mindlink she considers his words then ,making her mind up she replies, "Yes it is probably wise for you to not drink any more, atleast for a while. Very well I will join you in a dance." She curtseys and offers her hand to him.

Val looks surprised for a moment. He then takes her hand. "Thank you, mylady" and leads her to the centre of the room. As they approach it, the bards in the tavern start to play a more classic song, which is more adapted to dance. Val notices that quite some have formed a big circle around them as they are ready to start. While smiling he admits to Evelyn "While playing extravagant games with Zinn, the crowd wasn't half this big."

Evelyn looks around and sees more people starting to join them, "I guess this is a more popular style of dance?" she replies softly, their hands clasped, very aware that while her other hand is on his shoulder, his hand is on the small of her back, on her bare skin. She knows it is the correct position for the dance, but cant help to redden nonetheless. "So Val," she says, as she steps into him as part of the dance, "had you not stopped, do you think you could have completed your next trick?" she asks, her eyes fixed on his.

"I think it has more to do with your charisma than the popularity of the dance." He blushes as he touches her skin [i:2iax8alh]It's really soft. Why does she use make up ? It only hides her natural beauty...[/i:2iax8alh] As Eve asks him about the trick, Val doesn't know what to answer. "Haha, who knows ? Perhaps the gods know it, I surely don't." Taking his breath, he continues. "And right now I don't even care about it. It belongs to the past..." He whispers "and I prefer to enjoy the moment right now" [i:2iax8alh]Perhaps I could have won against Zinn, but right now even if I abandonned I feel like the winner.[/i:2iax8alh] Val grins like a child.

She blushes when he pays her the compliment, then laughs to his response to her question, "that is a good answer," she smiles. Val twirls her on her feet and catches her in his arms as part of the dance, the closeness of their faces is almost too much and she hastily changes the subject, as she spins back to her feet. "This morning you told me that you followed the teachings of Saverane, the archer. It is interesting that you told me you do not always agree with her priests and follow your own code. Yet you are obviously divine, are you not a priest of her order then?"

"Well, do you really want to talk about my religious beliefs now ? Am I really that bad as a dancer ?" he asks still smiling. "You are right, I am no priest, as I never studied in a temple. I was a mere archer the biggest part of my live. It was only later..." He stops for a moment, thinking about his past, his homevillage, the slaughtering, the escape. He tries to hide his sadness. "...that I discovered I had a divine gift. I was a chosen one." "Let's talk about you, that's more interesting I bet. So, how did you become a priest ? And where are you from ?"

"You are a far better dancer than me," she smiles, "I don't mean to pry, I'm merely interested to know the person behind the face." "My past?" she jumps slightly at the question, "My past is best left where it is, in the past. But I dont wish to be rude so I will tell you something of myself." she continues. "I am a decendant of a celestial creature not of this earth. While, I'm not of pure blood, I do bear a lot of the heritage of my celestial ancestors." "When I was very young, my parents were killed in a ravine. I was trapped with their bodies for many days. I remember little of that experience except that I was rescued by a family who thought I had lost my mind and left me in an orphanage as someone elses problem." "I was sold to an evil priest who wished to sacrifice children to his unholy god. My actions on that day saved my life and he decided to keep me alive and initiate me into his faith, but I had never accepted his faith and in secret followed Vecer. He did not find this out till it was too late and I had already escaped with Mitra." "We have been on the run for many moons and do not know if he will catch up with us or not. That is why I am often wary of strangers. For I never know if that person is an agent for the priest.... You were the first I did not feel any fear off." She gazes directly at him as she speaks.

Zinnaella gets her "winnings" - another drink, and she makes her way back to the table her, Mitra, and Evelyn had shared originally. She can't seem to stop grinning, between the win and the alcohol now going through her body. Thankfully, she is content for the time being to just sit and watch the events around her.

[i:2swhmver]'You did really well Zinn in that game' [/i:2swhmver]Evelyn communicates across the mindlink,[i:2swhmver] 'perhaps you would like a dance with Val when im finished?'[/i:2swhmver]

[i:1kmjr2qm]Sure, I can take him off your hands for a bit. Uh, I mean, you know.[/i:1kmjr2qm] Even using the mind link, Zinnaella finds herself stammering at times.

[b:wlo9wikb]'OK Zinnaella,' [/b:wlo9wikb] Evelyn giggles over the mind link, [i:wlo9wikb]'I think I know what you mean....this song will be finishing soon, be ready.'[/i:wlo9wikb]

As he listening to the story he understands. "So that explains your... relation with Mitra" "Really ? do I look that trustworthy ?" he smiles at the thaught. "It seems that you also get along with Zinn. Feminine intuition ?"

"Perhaps," she smiles a mischievous glint in her eyes. "So now ive told you a bit about myself, what do you want to share with me?" she smiles, spinning once again into his arms.

Val is taken by surprise ! "Well, I don't know how to answer that one to be honest. Perhaps we could take a walk outside... ? I feel like it's getting hot" Val seems quite nervous and doesn't look Eve in the eyes.

'outside?' now it is Evelyn's turn to be surprised, "Are you feeling ok?" she asks with concern. she is unsure what to do, but if Val isnt feeling well... "OK let's go outside for a moment, let you get a breath of fresh air, it will do you good.." [i:ud9dxzjb]'Val isnt feeling well,[/i:ud9dxzjb]' she communicates over the link, '[i:ud9dxzjb]im just taking him outside by the door for fresh air. I think the alcohol has mixed with the movements of the dance. I wont be long.'[/i:ud9dxzjb] She leads Val out of the main door into the cool street outside.

Xerxes watches Evelyn and Val dancing, it reminds him of the dancing in the square earlier that day, he heads over to Mitra and leaning over and extending his hand says "care to finish what we started young lady?"

"Aaaah, thank you. That feels alot nicer !" he says, without thinking about the words he uses. "Don't you feel the same?" "One of the conveniant things about this heat wave is that you won't freeze during the night even while only wering a party dress." Val considering that perhaps humans, even with celestial, wouldn't endure cold as good as his kind. So he asks her gently: "Or are you feeling cold ?"

"Yes it certainly is lot cooler here," she remarks softly, instinctively rubbing her bare arms slightly. "But im glad you feel better here." she continues, "Are you enjoying this quest so far?" "Is it what you expected it to be?" she asks gently.

"Not really. I didn't know what to expect." There are a few moments of silence during which both enjoy the fresh, calm air. "I didn't expect anything special, but I met you. So you can say that it turned out quite differently than what I had imagined for my first time." He blushes After hearing what he just said, he quickly adds "I mean, it turned out better." Not knowing what to say and not wanting to say more stupid things, he waits for Eve to reply or say something.

Evelyn spares him any more embarresment and focuses on his correction instead, "better...yes things are certainly better..." she says wistfully. she takes a long deep breath and relaxes in the darkness. Looking to the sky, she notes the twinkling lights of the stars above, she remarks, "Val, do you ever wonder if you are here for a higher purpose?" "Would you want to know? she asks.

After the first question, Val answers fast. "If I say yes, would you think that I am arrogant ?" He laughs Val isn't sure he understood the second question. "Could you show me ?"

"What I mean," she turns to face him, "if you were for destined for bigger things, would you want to know what they were." "By knowing it could be a large burden on your shoulders but the advantage would be being more prepared for it." She smiles, "but im taking this conversation too deep, and this is supposed to be a celebration of life," she laughs. "Now we've not finished that dance yet," she smiles mischievously. "Care to finish it here outside?" she asks with a grin. She holds out her hand for him to take.

"You are right, let the gods decide if I truly am worthy of being a hero. Only time will tell. We should enjoy the time we have while we still have it." He smiles at Eve proposition and takes her hand. "It would be an honor, mylady." And there both start to dance once again. Val feeling more confident, he grasps Eve more tightly.

With the tension in the air dispersed, Evelyn allows herself to enjoy the moment. Val grips her more tightly and she finds herself spun faster in his arms, causing her to laugh outloud. They glide around the street, occasionally veering close to people passing by. "Oops sorry sir!" she laughs as they slip out of the way of a villager, who gives them an odd look as they spin past him. An overzealous lift from a spin causes their faces to get very close, her chest pushed against his, yet she does not blush, and simply enjoys the dance.

Val seems happy to see Evelyn enjoying the dance. [i:pvyv1tby]She really isn't one of these women...[/i:pvyv1tby] He smiles as they dance through the villagers, through the street, through the night. "Quelle magnifique soiree" he says, instinctively; noticing only a few seconds later that he spoke in elven. "Sorry, I wanted to say: what a wonderfull night."

"It certainly is!" she gives him a dazzling smile. "But...I think.." between gasps of air," ..we really should head back before people start asking questions," she gives him a wink. "let's go inside." and she starts to lead him inside before stopping outside of the door and says, "Thank you for a wonderful dance." she says, and kisses him on the cheek and walks inside.

"The pleasure was all mine, miss Evelyn Good." he says sincerly. They both walk back to the tavern and search for their companions.

Postavi?ka had tried the balancing glass on head thing but very quickly realised that he was much better at drinking it than balancing it, so after a few tips he gives up on that. He see's Val and Evelyn go out together for a while and then Postavi?ka raises an eyebrow and think's to himself: h'mmm wonder if anything's going to happen with those two.

Evelyn leads Val back into the taproom and says to him softly, "You are in big demand tonight," she grins, "I believe Zinnealla would like a dance with you. You had best go and ask her, to avoid any offends." over the mindlink in a mischievous tone she says, [i:2qexrplg]'Ok, Zinnaella, he is all yours,'[/i:2qexrplg]

"Well, as far as I know, it's my the first time tonight a girl demands a dance with me. You didn't, I asked you." Val says to Eve, grinning. He then whispers, slightly confused. "But it that's what you want..." He approaches Zinn. "Would the winner be so kind and dance with me ?"

"is not one girl demand enough," she laughs. Before he goes she takes hold of his arm and whispers, "It may be of no interest to you, but can you do something for me? Zinnaella wears a new dress, something she perhaps would not wear often. It would do her really good, for her confidence, to pay her a nice compliment, no matter how small. I would really appreciate it too." "I hope that is ok," she adds, and lets him leave, to approach Zinnaella.

He laughs when Eve says that Zinn is shy. "She seemed quite confident whila balancing on that chair !" "Well, I can do it for you, if you want. But that dress really suits you better than her." he says while going to Zinn and hoping that Eve didn't noticed he blushed.

Evelyn's face reddens at Val's comment,, "..thank you," she stammers in response, not knowing what else to say. Evelyn returns to the table where Zinnaella and Val had played their game. She sees Postavicka (Mitra and Xerxes?) and sits down on an empty chair and greets them. "Are you enjoying the party?" she addressses them with a smile. Turning to Postavicka, she leans closer to him and asks softly, her eyes sparkling with interest, "Would you be willing to tell me abit about yourself? It would be good to know who will be leading us through these dangerous lands, over the next few days."

Zinnaella looks up to Val, "Sure." She takes another drink from her wine and moves out with Val onto the dance area. ((And just because I can - Perform(dance) check))[dice:2hvbhdtx]1d20+4[/dice:2hvbhdtx] Zinnaella pulls off the dance fine, with no mistakes - but also with not very much that would wow anyone watching.

"Haven't you already got enough wine ?" he asks her, smiling. "A fine looking lady shoudn't drink too much. Let me lead, I will show you." ((I thought perform dance was dex based, but it seems cha based, so let's give it a try ^^)) [dice:3sqoa1o8]20+4[/dice:3sqoa1o8] Val leads gracefully the dance. "Isn't it better so ?" He places his mouth near her ear and whispers softly "This challenge, I won !" Laughing, he looks a her. "Are you blushing ?"

To Evelyn he says "Well i've worked here for ages and i'm glad to finally get to travel a bit, actually i'm looking rather forward to it." Postavi?ka feeling quite merry now after several tankards downed. He looks around seeing several dancers and spots Juilettava who is a cute little gnome who Postavi?ka knows has a crush on him. Postavi?ka goes over to Juilettava, offers her his hand and they do a rather adhoc and expressionate gnome dance.

Evelyn considers Postavicka's words. It was not much of an answer and certainly doesnt tell her anything about this, apparently friendly gnome, but she notices his slight swaying and ever increasing grin and realises he is probably a little too drunk to converse. She watches him go and ask a pretty female gnome, who blushes when he offers her his hand. They dance an unusual dance, which causes her to stifle a laugh, but somehow it seems to suite the pair as they move about the floor. She notices Val and Zinnaella dancing gracefully aswell. Val seems to have a large grin on his face as if enjoying a private joke, so much so that she can't resist to send over the mindlink to Zinnaella, [i:2e5x6o7b]'having fun?'[/i:2e5x6o7b] Her eyes glance about the room as she takes in the nights revelry. The large woman still offers her game, some are losers and some win. The skittles nearby makes a loud clanging noise, followed by a loud cheer as the man bowling, knocks down them all in one go. She makes out for a few seconds at a time, between the moving crowds, the half drow, sitting on his own. He seems to be concentrating on something but not sure what. Staring at him longer she notes several glowing balls floating in the air much to the amusement of those nearby and she wonders if it has something to do with him. She speaks to a passing waitress and asks for a wine, and when she receives it, drinks it slowly, her mind filled with thoughts.

As Evelyn sits, sipping her wine watching the other revelers, she thinks of the words she had told Val. Her mind slips back to that night they had escaped. [i:3aa99uti]She had crept down the dark corridor barefooted, as silent as a mouse. She had arrived at the ironbound door and inserted the key she had 'borrowed' from Dhanzamar. She had stolen it while he had been distracted with some of his 'pets' and had taken it to the keymaker to create a copy. Turning the key in its lock it clicked, making a louder sound than she had wished. Opening the door she saw the young woman lying on the cold stone slab. She was curled into a ball, her long dark hair shrouding her face. She approached with caution as she always did since she had befriended this girl and uttered soothing words to slowly rise her from her sleep. With the girl still drowsy, She had guided her out of the door and back through the maze of dingy damp corridors that made up the master's evil abode. As they neared some steps going up, a young man had stepped out in front of them. "So what are you doing here Evelyn," his voice sneered, "Oh my! The little rat girl, well well well," he continued in his usual gloating tone, " Wait till the master finds out about this, you will pay dearly for this treachery." Kalin, stood taller than her and was at least five years older, his body odour, filled her nostrils and she flinched at the smell. Knowing she couldnt back down, she swung her fist at him shouting , "Go to Vecher!" Kalin easily dodges her swing and back hands her in the face causing her to crash against the wall and tumble to the ground. At this the dark haired girl reacts for the first time, her eyes focus and stare fixedly at the boy. Kalin screams and falls to the ground holding his head, blood dribbling from his nose. Evelyn gets up, collecting her backpack and checks on the boy, looking at the dark haired girl in amazement, "He's still alive.." she stammers. Realizing their time is short, she snatches up her things, puts on her shoes and the girls and guides the girl up the stairs into the courtyard beyond. "We must run!" she urges the girl and they run out of the courtyard, knowing a silent alarm has been sounded in the master's chambers. Evelyn and the girl flee through the streets and do not stop until they are far out of the town and into a nearby wood. Evelyn collapses beside a tree, utterly exhausted a pain in her side from the running. THe girl is sitting crosslegged under a tree picking flowers in an almost dreamy fashion. Only when Evelyn's breath finally returns the girl looks up and says, "Where is Mr Wuffles? Evelyn smiles and reaches into her backpack retrieving a cuddly toy and hands it to the girl, "Its ok he is here" she says softly, ", everything will be alright, everything will be alright."[/i:3aa99uti]

Zinnaella chuckles at the suggestion to not to drink as much. "If I didn't, you would have won earlier." But it does seem like the drink is starting to effect her, for she can't seem to stop smiling. Regardless, she follows Val out to dance. "You dance very well, I'm used to something a little different." Zinnaella laughs at her own comment, continuing with the dance. As Val leans in and whispers, she does indeed blush and looks away. "Uh, maybe?" She's not sure why she was blushing this time, but something about the way he spoke to her, something about him - she was starting to understand the problem. Then she felt a voice speaking to her, she started to look around before remembering what it was. [i:bvz1uz0i]Yes, I am. Thank you,[/i:bvz1uz0i] she thinks back, a little forcibly as through she was yelling. And she was, she was indeed having a good time - better than she has had for a while. Sure, there was the overall mission and quest, but those pressures and concerns could wait until tomorrow - right now was right now, and Zinnaella was determined to enjoy the party as much as she could.

After the song finishes Val leans to Zinn. "Thank you very much, now I'm exhausted." he smiles. "Should we go back to the others ?" Val returns to the table with Zinn to find their companions.

It felt like she had closed her eyes for just a second but almost half an hour had past in the party. Games had been played, dancing had occured and she had felt it all. She had felt the emotions of Eve'y and Zin whose control of the mind link were far weaker than her own. Xerxes had asked her for a dance but she was to lost in the feelings that Eve'y was feeling, so she hadn't answered. The betrail that Mitra felt with Eve'y emotions was almost to much to bare, she felt the rush of emotions the surge of Eve'y labido. Unlike the other two she could fully control the link, she just couldn't fully control herself. She reached out with her mind. She reached for the elf. She reached for his mind. She.... retracted. Breathing a deep breath and sighing heavily. She stood up and walked over to Eve'y as Eve'y was replaying how they escaped from their master's layer. That was another life time ago, on another plane of existance as far as Mitra was concerned. She looked into Eve'y eyes and pushed the one emotion she always felt with Eve'y and that was love. The woman smiled back at her. Gods were stupid bastards any way. "You remember the escape. You remember that you love me. You betray me with your emotions." She said calmly, almost to calmly. "We need to talk. Away from everyone else." [i:2xvju3qc]Zinnaella my dear. Run interference with that stupid Elf, If he so much as utters a word to either myself or Eve'y before the end of this night, then the dwarf will be picking bits of him out of his ceiling for the next decade. Thank you.[/i:2xvju3qc]

Zinnaella stops halfway back to the table, holding onto Val's arm. She paused for a moment, unsure of her next move - but she heard, no - [i:3lvecht2]felt[/i:3lvecht2] the intensity of Mitra's request, and she wasn't going to deny it. "Uh Val - how about one more? A slow relaxing one, since I know we've been wearing you out. Please?" Not really giving him time to refuse, she takes him back out to the dance floor. It wasn't the best interference, but hopefully it would be enough. [i:3lvecht2]Hurry,[/i:3lvecht2] she thought back, [i:3lvecht2]I don't know how long this will work.[/i:3lvecht2] ((Imagine a bride & father dance - slow, but no romance to it. That's Zinn's attitude here.))

"Well, if you insist..." he answers exhausted. "I can't refuse a dance with the winner of tonight, nor can I ?" he smiles a little bit not noticing that Eve and Mitra leaves the group.

Mitra got up and led Eve'y out into the night along some of the roads away from the tavern so they could speak in private. [i:1ihgo73h]It will work long enough. Thank you Zinnaella.[/i:1ihgo73h]

Evelyn looks surprised at first as she snaps back to reality, Mitra's eyes fixed on hers. [i:58tpq7as] 'oh of course, I forget you can read my thoughts,'[/i:58tpq7as] comes over the mindlink [i:58tpq7as]'to talk?, of course, lead me where you wish."[/i:58tpq7as] Eve allows herself to be led out of the door.

See's Evelyn and Mitra leave and raises eyebrow and thinks, that Mitra looks a moody one, wonder whats up with her?

A little time later Evelyn and Mitra return to the taproom and walk back to the table they had left. Evelyn's hair is no longer up but over her shoulders loosely brushed back, her silk dress marred with dirt. She smiles at Mitra then returns to her seat, once more picking up her wine to drink, keeping to herself. [i:5gr309mj]'Everything is sorted now, thank you Zinnaella." [/i:5gr309mj]comes over the mindlink.

After a while Val says to Zinn, "Ok, I think that's enoug. Or else all the man will become jealous." He smiles as he compliments her, looking in her eyes. As he goes back, he sees that Eve's dress is dirty. Not knowing what happened he asks her, "Are you all right ? What happened to you ?" [Edit, I forgot that Val was still dancing] --------------------------------- ((Sense Motive DC 16)) [dice:199d5v63]20[/dice:199d5v63]

Evelyn looks down at her dress as if looking at it for the first time and says softly, "Oh!, oh its nothing don't worry....I just umm..fell." she smiles, as she smooths down the dress trying to work out the dirt. "Did you enjoy your dance with Zinnaella?" she asks. ---------- [dice:2enlv4gf]20+4[/dice:2enlv4gf]

Val doesn't believe Evelyn, but tries to hide it. Instead he smiles at her and asks her, "Do you want something to drink ? I haven't thanked you for tonight yet. Let's go to the bar. They're quite too much customers tonight to hope getting your drink before forgetting what you ordered !"

Evelyn looks uncertain at first, glancing at Mitra, then says softly, "OK, I will come to the bar with you." She follows Val to the bar.

As they arrive to the bar, he asks her "What do you want ? Can I recommend you the cider ? It is quite good !" He laughs and taps her on the shoulder, quite drunk. After they got their drink, he asks her silently, far more serious, while still looking drunk, "What happenend really ? Don't you trust me ? Or can't you speak freely ?" "If you think we are being observed, just take your glass and go back to the group. If not, please explain me why you lied to me." He continues to grinn like an idiot, but his eyes and ears are focused.

Evelyn listens to him and considers her words before sighing, "I love Mitra and Im attracted to you. Does that make any sense to you?" "Mitra is not happy with my...interest in you...yet I cannot stop myself from being attracted to you..." "You do not know me..yet.. and I dont expect you to understand me either. I do not see things in the same way as others do and I am not your typical girl, who only desires a husband and a baby to pop out of her, like a cork from a bottle...." she smiles. Her face takes on a more serious look, when she says,"My life code is my own...." "Look Val" she says softly, "Im sorry I lied, I felt you wouldn't understand or look me down, if you knew the truth. Let us put this behind us and I will promise not to lie to you again, even if it brings you pain...is that fair?"

Postavi?ka although somewhat drunk now is still sober enough to see Mitra looking rather intently at Val and Evelyn. He raises an eyebrow and thinks to himself there's definiately something going on here, i hope they all pull together for this mission, it's going to be harder to lead a group if they start at each other.

As Val hears Evelyn's confession he gulps. "Does that mean that... you and Mitra are a couple ? Sorry, she looks so young, I thought she loved you because you saved her. I didn't know you had the same feeling for her..." He looks quite down when he says it, but suddenly he takes a serious face. "Does that mean that Mitra did this to you ?" He looks at Eve's messy dress and hair. "Did she beat you !?" he nearly shouted it out.

"Beat me?" Evelyn says in surprise, "Oh no Val she didn't beat me.... and consider yourself lucky you didn't make me stay outside longer... or people may have thought that of you!" she smiles mischievously. She screws up her face in confusion and continues, "Val, Mitra looks a similar age as me, and Im only seventeen, so I dont understand that point, but if you refer to her apparent age you mustn't judge her as she might appear to you. It is not my place to tell you any more about her, but please don't think her a simple little girl." She adds softly, "My relationship with Mitra is far more complex than you can possibly imagine, love is but one aspect of it, but that doesn't take away what I feel towards you. I do not expect you to understand, but if you would want to know me better, in every single detail, you know where I am." She squeezes his hand as she passes him and makes her way back to their table.

"No fight ? But your clothes are dirty... and your hair..." he stumbles, "Oh... OH ! Ehm ok. Sorry..." [i:1ch837ng]That story is giving me more trouble than the quest... Only 17, she seems way more mature to me, but I assume most humans do...[/i:1ch837ng] He smiles to himself, his eyes shining, full of excitment [i:1ch837ng]It's getting more and more interesting ![/i:1ch837ng] "You are right, I don't understand it, I don't understand a lot of things, but one thing I know. And the fact that I don't understand it right now doesn't change a thing... at least not for me." As she squeezes his hand, he holds her back. It lasted only a moment, a mere second, but felt like a little eternity. He returns to the group a few moments after Eve. "That was a bloody cider, I tell you !" he yells, looking drunk again. "Who's up for another game ? Let's celebrate while we can !"

[quote="Kurzio":27163waa]After a while Val says to Zinn, "Ok, I think that's enoug. Or else all the man will become jealous." He smiles as he compliments her, looking in her eyes.[/quote:27163waa] Zinnaella nods in agreement that they were out there long enough, especially since she knew she had done her job for long enough by then. However, at Val's comment that other men would be jealous, Zinnaella could only blush and look away from him, giggling at the suggestion. As they return to the table, Zinnaella moves around to her seat and the wine she left, taking another drink from it. She looks intently into her wine glass, watching the fluid move as she rotates the glass, swirling the wine around. She gets so distracted by it that she actually misses all that happens, until Val returns asking who is up for another game. She looks up then and raises her hand, "I think... yeah, I play game. But, maybe you have room, you know, stop spinning first?"

"Evelyn says softly, "Well I would be no good at your balancing act, and a drunken priestess wouldn't be a good thing either. So I will watch your game and offer my support in applause."

"Actually," Evelyn decides, "I would like to try that wooden skittles game over there. Would anyone else like a go?" [i:ambj621a]Mitra?[/i:ambj621a] Evelyn excuses herself for a moment and walks to the crowd by the skittles. She sees that the game as been upped in its anty and now there are 10 statues instead of six, all resembling a troll or other hideous looking monster. She waits till the man finishes rolling his last ball and notices 2 still remain upright. "Bad luck, Jerad," a woman says cheerfully, "But dont worry, I lost more than you I suspect. Evelyn realises that further bets are made on the players that attend. "May I have a go?" she asks the man who finishes his game. "Course me dear," the man replies, "simply place your bet on that wooden plate on the floor and roll this ball behind that chalked line," he rolls it in his hands," at them statuettes over there." He adds, "Get em all down and you win back double your money, don't you lose of course. You get three goes me dear." Placing a single silver piece in the wooden bowl, She hefts the ball in her hands, feeling its weight and shape. She hears a flurry of movement to her side as other people place thier bets on her appearance. Standing behind the chalked line, she bends her kness together and with a single underarm swing movement, releases the ball toward the statues. [not sure if designed correctly but is 1d0 per skittle standing +/- dex mod in number of d10's further rolled minimum 1d10] [for Eve dex +0 - so no extra dice] [dice:ambj621a]10d10[/dice:ambj621a] 6 statues fall over to a cheer in the crowd. "Not bad, Not bad me dear," the man remarks, It was a lucky first roll, but the last three looked difficult to aim for. So with careful aim, she once again swings the ball. [dice:ambj621a]3d10[/dice:ambj621a] two more fall down leaving only 2 left standing Evelyn is amazed at her luck and looks at the ball with wonder. She aims at the last two balls and once more underarm swings to the statue, her eyes wide in wonder if her aim is true. [dice:ambj621a]10[/dice:ambj621a] "Ah bad luck me dear," the man says patting her on her shoulder, "You did well enough for your first attempt, Now who else wants a go?" he addresses the crowd around him.

"Aw common !" Val answers Evely, "there are lots of games here. What about that one ?" He points at some dwarves and humans throwing axes at a barrel. "I would prefer using my bow, but that would be no challenge. See it as a lttle exercise for the quest." Before Evelyn can reply, he continues asking the whole company, "So who else is up ? It seems that it's a competition. The winner will recieve a prize. And we all should have fun. It's Miro's bithday party !"

Mitra steped back into the pub with Eve'y a broad smile on her face, her dress ruffled and her hair tussled. She sat at the table and blew her hair from her face, she collected her wine glass and sipped. Val walked up and took Eve'y off to the bar, it was annoying but to be quite honest she would deal with him when the sun rose the next day, for now she was happy that Eve'y knew what was going on, and how Mitra was feeling. Eventually Eve'y came back and asked if she wanted to play skittles. "I wont play, Eve'y but I will watch you." As she passed Xerxes she placed her hand on his shoulder and leant in to speak to him above the crowd. "I'm sorry I didn't answer you earlier, if you would like a dance then I would be more than happy to dance with you, but nothing sausey, I'm a one woman kind of gal. I'm just going to watch Eve'y with her skittles then we shall dance." She follows Eve'y to the skittles and stands nearby watching as the pins fall.

Evelyn turns to Mitra after her game of skittles [i:231v4jqt]"Well that was quick but fun,"[/i:231v4jqt] Evelyn laughs over the girls' mindlink She takes hold of Mitra's hand and communicates [i:231v4jqt]Let's join in the big competition,[/i:231v4jqt] (assuming Mitra agrees to be led - if decides to dance with Xerxes - Eve walks on her own) She leads Mitra over to where Val, Postavicka (and Zinn?) are collecting around a barrel at one end of the taproom. "Ok Val we are here," she grins, "What are the rules? and what is the winner's prize?"

"I dunno what exactly the prize is. They said it's a surprise. But what I do know is that you simply have to throw one of this axes and hit that small a barrel. All those you hit take another shot, but a from a greater distance. That goes until only one is left. Oh, it costs one silver piece to take part." Looking at the company he asks once again "Seems fun and simple. Who wants to join ?" "I will start if you want, but I doubt I will be any good, those dwarwen throwing axes aren't as good as an elven bow." he already tries to find an excuse if he doesn't win. "Perhaps I should ask a little divine help, so that I can ensure victory." he says as he goes to the dwarves who are running the game. "[i:13pdv0fx]Saverana, guide mon bras[/i:13pdv0fx]" [Val casts Bless, granting only himself a +1 moral bonus to his attack rolls for the next 20 rounds. He doesn't consider the company as allies for this game ^^] He pays one sp and takes an axes. Concentrating a few seconds before throwing it. [Casts guidance on himself, giving +1 competence bonus for the next attack roll] [dice:13pdv0fx]20+3+1+1-4[/dice:13pdv0fx] AC: 13 He scores without any difficulty ! "See ? It isn't that hard." ((To hit simply make a normal ranged attack roll (d20+dex modifier). Don't forget to substract 4 to the score if your character isn't proficient with throwing axes (martial weapon). If you score is at least as high as the AC you hit the barrel, and you can throw it next round again from a bigger distance. If at one point none of our group hits the barrel, it's assumed that another customer hits it and wins the competition. AC: 10+2(tiny)+1/round (each round you go 10 feet back).))

Evelyn watches Val throw the axe and hit the barrel with a solid hit. "You make it look easy," she remarks softly. "Ok I will have a go too." she adds. Evelyn pays her silver piece and lifts the axe, feeling its weight. "It seems a bit awkward in my hand," she remarks, "but I shall try none the less." She takes a position, a marked distance from the barrel and closing one eye, looking very serious in thought, she tries to throw it a bit like you might throw a dart. The axe spins awkwardly in the air toward the barrel. [dice:7uhib00d]20-3[/dice:7uhib00d] the axe veers of course and misses one of the dwarves by the barrel by a whisker. "Hey!" he shouts, "careful!" Evelyn blushes "Sorry!" she calls to him "I think I better leave this game to the warriors in our company." she says, and takes her place to the side.

"Wow, it seems that the gods have let you down. and also this poor dwarf." he laughs "What about you, Miatra ? Care to give it a shot ?" he asks her friendly.

Mitra looks to Val after giggling at Eve'y's throw. "I never participate in games that can be highly dangerous for others. Like flirting with someone else's partner can be dangerous. Just like the axe can miss the barrel and hurt someone, your attempts can hurt others and thus mean that they might lash out." She looks at the others dumb founded looks. "Sorry did you want me to do this in private some where?" She pats him slightly on the side of the face "...and honey the name is Mitra not Miatra." She smiles at him. "Now I believe it's your throw."

Zinnaella steps up after Mitra refuses to participate. "I got this one," she says. She takes out a silver coin and places it in the hand of the one collecting the coins, or tries to. At first, she misses their hand a little and has to try a second times to pay him. "Stop moving, or I can't pay," she tells him with a smile. She then takes one of the axes and stands near the first line. Since she wasn't standing where she was supposed to, one of the dwarves running it directs her a step back to be at the proper place. "Oh whoops, sorry," she says as she finally gets the proper placement. She raises the axe, feeling the weight of it a little. As she brings it back, she stumbles and takes a step back to keep her balance. "Whoops, this is a little heavier than my rapier." Zinnaella giggles at her own troubles, getting herself set. She takes a couple moments, trying to focus the three targets into just one. "Ok, here goes nothing." ((Ranged attack DC 13))[dice:2i7z4cj4]1d20+5-4[/dice:2i7z4cj4] As her thrown axe flies into the target, it wobbles in flight and just slightly misses the barrel, hitting it but not sticking to it. As the axe clangs to the floor, she looks back to Val. "Told you the room needed to stop spinning so much."

Xerxes had noted the far away expression in Mitra's eyes and just sat at the table mingling and watching the room, when she finally responded for the dance he says "actually, I think the axe-barrel game might be fun, let's go do that with the others instead?" Xerxes watches in silence and puts down a silver piece after Zin gives it a go, lines up his shot and... ((I'm not going to take the bless bonus since I don't think Val would have included us in it's effects since he's trying to win? )) [dice:38jwsd0t]1d20+2[/dice:38jwsd0t] ((against AC 13 10ft.)) ...nails a barrel. X smiles and with a motion of his hand indicates that Val should try again from further back.

"Haha, no offense taken, and sorry about your name, but I believe that cider could have soething to do with it." He approaches his face to Miatra's, looking all serious suddenly and whispers to her. "But you can't win if you don't play, can you ?" He then turn up again, and sees Xerxes landing a wonderful shot. "Nice one, X !" he yells, "this surely isn't your first game." He then takes an axe and goes farther away. Taking some time to cencentrate ((guidance)) [dice:17b618ji]20+2[/dice:17b618ji] ((AC 14)) He throws it... but he misses ! "Argh, seems to gods have abandonned me as well !" he laughs as he goes back to the company. "Well at least we now have one more thing in common, miss Evelyn.", he says while looking at her, smiling.

Tries to throw axe, although has no idea how to... [dice:1rd0vfup]20-5[/dice:1rd0vfup] (assuming non-proficient penalty is -4)

Misses the barrel completely.... (Do we roll to see if hits someone else?)

She chuckles at the elf's back as he speaks to Xerxes. "Oh my, that was rather a threatening tone to take. I shouldn't have to play any game for my lover." She moves over to Eve'y "My, my Eve'y you do pick the strangest men." she takes another sip of her wine.

Evelyn smiles warmly at Mitra [i:ctq7eu94] 'Well you do know me better than I do'[/i:ctq7eu94] comes over the girl's mindlink To Val's comment Evelyn smiles awkwardly back and says nothing.

[i:6ry45kq6]But still I would hope you had better taste than this one, he is sandwiches short of a picnic. Still if you must flirt with the pretty thick boys do it away from me and my eyes, it's sick enough that you want to share, and I have to agree to this, but I don't want to see it, hear about it or know it.[/i:6ry45kq6] Comes back over the link. She runs her hand down Eve'y's back using just her finger tips. "Don't worry Eve'y, it is a tough game."

[i:385vjdtg]"you are right Mitra, Im truly sorry, I will be more...subtle....in the future." [/i:385vjdtg]comes over the mindlink [i:385vjdtg]"He has insulted my divine connection to my god, but I have forgiven him this time, as I have made allowances for his drunken state. But should he continue to insult me....." [/i:385vjdtg]

[i:3nz15fg2]Drunken State? He is merely acting drunk my love, I'm sure he is sober enough to whisper quite clearly to me "But you can't win if you don't play, can you ?" with what sounded like a slight challenge for more than just the axe competition. This is why I think you pick the worst men to lust after, it's still your choice and you know my feelings about it, but I love you and thus if you want to bed the thickest plank in the room, because you can't control your emotions, then do so. I will be here to pick the pieces up if he hurts you.[/i:3nz15fg2] She smiles at Zinnaella, she slips her other arm around the young woman and gives her a slight hug "Don't worry about it honey you will hit it next time." She looks to Xerses, "Come on X, show us how it's done!" She cheers and claps. [i:3nz15fg2]I wouldn't mind if you chased after X as at least he has a brain and we could share him. He is also polite, doesn't make comments about your faith being abandoned, and not arrogant about his looks, nor is he a bashful little boy. What do you think Zinnaella?[/i:3nz15fg2]

X cringes as first Posta misses completely and his axe hits the ceiling and then again as Val misses the barrel by about a foot and hits the wall. "better to be lucky than good, but luck is an unpredictable mistress" he says to noone in particular and then turns to Zin, "good luck Zin, it looks like it's just you and me now" he says smiling. X waits for Zin to shoot and then tosses another [dice:vgrzmq88]1d20+2[/dice:vgrzmq88] AC 14 (20ft) ..."bullseye! ah lady luck, she's smiling on me tonight, however, that only leads me to think of tomorrow..."

[i:15543lri]"Pretending to be drunk?" [/i:15543lri]comes a confusing tone over the mindlink. [i:15543lri]"Surely not, he doesn't look like someone who would pretend about such things....would he?"[/i:15543lri] [i:15543lri]"If you like Xerxes so much, I wont stop you or mind, if you would like to try... I can see why you like him...."[/i:15543lri] comes a capricious tone over the mindlink,[i:15543lri] "I dont think we should drag Zinnaella into this though, it is not fair to make her choose sides or give opinions on others. She may like Val for different reasons...."[/i:15543lri]

[i:58o0u40a]"I don't know, you know him a lot better than I do."[/i:58o0u40a] The sarcastic responce comes back. [i:58o0u40a]"He certainly sobered up to speak to me, in hushed tones."[/i:58o0u40a] She barely thinks before replying to Eve'y next comment.[i:58o0u40a]"Beh, you know I at least would never do that. You are plenty for me. I want to know what Zinnaella thinks of Val, if she likes him or if she thinks the same as me. Eve'y everyone is intitled to an opinion, I'm not going to tell Zinnaella she is wrong, I merely wish to know if I am missing more to him than the pretty idiot, that I see.[/i:58o0u40a]

"Wow, wonderful shot X !" Val says as X hits the barrel right in the middle from a distance where no one else has even hit it. "This adventuring group seems to be full of promising heroes I say ! It seems we have a winner here." "Come on champ, go get your your prize from that dwarf, you deserved it." As X comes back, Val taps him on his shoulder. "You know what ? I think I will pay you a drink, buddy. What do you want ?" Before X has the time to answer. "Ok, get this man a cider !" he orders the waitress, "Wait ! Make that two and put it on my tab." He then turns to the company "I never thaught the life of adventurers would be so much fun ! Let us celebrate this very moment !" he says, holding his glass high. "To X and to the company !"

Postavi?ka enjoying the moment also congratulates X. Just after Val speaks to the waitress he says to her "Sandretta would you be a sweetie and please also get us seven tankards of that special extra strong cider we have in the back, I'll settle in the morning". To Val and X he says "Ok lads, LETS GET PISSSSED"

Evelyn not knowing the rules of the game, accepts X as the winner. Raising her wine glass, she adds to the toast, "And to long lasting friendships and success on all our quests, unless the gods will it otherwise" she smiles.

On hearing Evelyn he looks at her and says "Yes the quest, weyhey, get those bloody riders, they are not as hidden as they think they are".

Mitra raises her glass of wine "Yes, to the success of all our quests in the future." She refuses the cider presented by the bar maid. "If he must buy a drink then another wine would be lovely."

before he knows what's happening the bar erupts in a frenzy of cheers and laughs, a drink is thrust into his hand and hands are clapping him on the back, X turns to Zin and shrugs giving her a smile "to the long hard road ahead" he says while lifting his tankard. "thanks guys" ((this is so weird having other people think things about me and me having to act normal and pretend like nothing's happening since my character has no idea! darn telepathic links!))

Seeing Mitra refuse her cider, she too turns hers away also asking for a wine instead. [i:1dgw27oe]'I think this needs to be my last'[/i:1dgw27oe] comes over the mindlink,[i:1dgw27oe] ' Ive drunk enough as it is.'[/i:1dgw27oe] She turns to Xerxes and says softly, "congratulations Xerxes, it was a great throw." She adds, "Perhaps when you are tired of your celebrating, you might join Mitra and myself and indulge us in some of your seafaring stories. Mitra loves tales and I would be interested to hear what stories are woven on the great green." she smiles at him, a mischievous glint in her eye.

Listening to Eve, Xerxes' expression suddenly drops into a stern frown, "I, uh... I grew up on the sea, but not by choice and even though I've grown to love her just as much as any sailor, I've been a party to some things I'm not proud of and I've finally decided to leave that life behind and right now I'm trying not to think about it, I figure if I can keep busy enough then maybe I can keep myself distracted and not deal with it I guess.." suddenly noticing that he's maybe said more than he should have he ponders and says "well actually, there are a few stories of seamonsters and one particular ghost ship that I know of, but I'm warning you, after I tell you what I know you may choose to never sail again! the nightmares of the deep are more true than some would like to admit" he finishes with a cockneyed half-smile, gesturing to some seats in the corner he says "So if the grog has either made you brave or foolish enough then I will regail you with a tale of old One-Eyed Morgan, the fiercest and most dangerous captain to have ever sailed our beautiful seas and some say that he sails them still, brought back into the world through foul magics to serve the sea-queen of tempests once more..."

Evelyn takes in Xerxes words and says softly, "We have all done things in our past we may not be proud off, that is why the future is so important, as you can shape it to be whatever you want it to be." "A ghost ship? now you have my attention," she smiles, "come sit with us Xerxes," Evelyn takes his arm "I'm sure Mitra will love your tales whatever you are willing to retell."

Mitra looks at the sailor "There are always stories. I would love to hear any that you wish to tell, but no pressure on the ones that will upset you." She places a hand on his. "Take your time." She pats his hands. [i]I can't wait for this. It must be good, maybe he was a merchant... or a pirate."[i] her eyes sparkle at the last thought.

Zinnaella looks to Mitra as she consoles her for missing. "Stupid spinning room," she mutters, but then gives Mitra a smile, "I guess I can't do it all, huh?" Then as Xerxes steps up to continue the challenge, she starts to cheer him on. He then hits the barrel solid and is awarded the title of winner. [i:y6rg235u]At least one of our group won,[/i:y6rg235u] she thinks outloud to the other two women while she cheers Xerxes over his victory. The questions to her through the mindlink then sink in and she looks back to the two women. [i:y6rg235u]Uh, who are we talking about now? Val? He seems harmless to me, a good guy. He wasn't overly polite or anything like he was trying to hide, he seems to just be himself.[/i:y6rg235u] She also sends a noncommittal shrug feeling over the link. [i:y6rg235u]And I don't mind being asked, even if I don't have much to say in this case.[/i:y6rg235u] As Mitra gets another wine, Zinnaella does so as well.

X turns to you each in turn and gives you a good hard look in the eyes, "I've never told this story to anyone, to say it is to admit it's true... years ago my father knew a man named Morgan, he was a free-trader that transported goods sometimes for our family, he was a good man, fair and stern, and one hell of a captain. he didn't just work for our family though, he took whatever work was offered. back when there was a major work shortage, the crops had been bad and there wasn't a lot of cargo that needed moving and so half the time the great cargo ships were in dock rather than at sea. Morgan was visited by a man representing a trading company he hadn't heard of, the deal was to transport a great number of barrels, but that he wasn't to know what was in them or try and open them, no questions... he didn't have much of a choice, business was bad, so he took the job and on this voyage he also brought his wife and two daughters as he would be staying on the southern coasts after that for the better part of the next year as there was more work down that way. well it was a hot summer, of the likes that you'd never seen, actually, quite like this unnatural heat we're experiencing now... it had hurt the crops and it made working outdoors unbearable and life aboard a ship like living in a furnace. their ship the Horizon Arrow was late and it was only weeks later that another ship finally found her out at sea, drifting, not a whisper on board, not even a single bird they found the bodies of the crewman all over the ship, the entire crew including the ship's dog were found in terrifying positions, teeth bared, with their upturned faces to the sun, staring as if in fear... what did the crew see that frightened them so? many have proposed that a sea witch killed them with her screams or that ghosts came from the sky and froze them all with their touch... The ship was brought back to port and the crew was buried and the ship docked to be refitted, but there was a curse on that ship, sunk deep into her and it couldn't be escaped. the entire crew of workers that were fixing her up soon became very sick and most of them died, there were cries of it being cursed and it was finally sunk in that very bay, but to this day, if you go and dive down there you won't find her, because she's risen again to sail for vengeance... my father knew the dock foreman who spoke to Morgan before he left on that last journey and with some digging around and a lot of coin he got some answers; old Morgan was given materials that were to be used to make drugs and poisons, illegal. some of those barrels got damaged during the voyage and it wasn't long before the crew was poisoned entirely, it had seeped into their water without their knowledge. they all died in terrible pain, the lot of them, they knew something was wrong at first, but by the time they figured out what had happened it was too late. there was a cover up on the other end, but the damage had been done and the chemicals had seeped into the hull and it killed so many of those workers that worked on her afterwards. now Morgan sails with his ghost crew and hunts the seas for other agents of his mystery employer, but since he still doesn't know in death who it was he just attacks whatever traders he comes across. we saw him once, we were reefed up near the shore because we couldn't sail through the heavy fog, our fleet was three ships strong and we were making slow progress. out of the fog came the Horizon Arrow, we could be sure by her rigging and flag, we couldn't believe our eyes and then she opened fire on Sea Cutter our second ship, we tried fighting them, but anything we sent at 'em sailed right through as if they weren't even there. we escaped that day damaged with only two ships... we never really spoke about it after either... old Morgan, who took his own eye, for he couldn't bear to watch his girls die, then keeping one so that he could spot his vengeance, so he could still use spyglass and hunt the seas, I've heard it whispered in the nightmares of some of our crew that in the hole where his other eye used to be you can see the crying faces of his girls in the dark... I was only 12 when it happened, but it's a day I'll carry to the end of my days...." after finishing his story X looks suddenly very tired, "I think I'm going to call it a night, I'm sure we're in for a hard day tomorrow, but don't you worry, you're safe on dry land ye lubbers, old one-eye won't get you tonight"

"It is a dark tale and I thank you for your willingness to share it, "Evelyn says softly. [i:39lq7d0z]'Mitra, is there anything you can do magically, to help Xerxes sleep?"[/i:39lq7d0z] comes over the mindlink, [i:39lq7d0z]" I fear the recounting of his tale may bring unwanted nightmares. Dont worry if there is not, for I have nothing to help with either but with words."[/i:39lq7d0z] "I have many questions about your tale and any others you wish to retell," Evelyn continues, "But, yes lets leave it to another day. It has been a long eventful day, today." she smiles. "Perhaps before you retire, to set your mind from things, dark and sorrowful, we can try lift your spirits a little and tell a tale of our own." Evelyn then goes onto retell a short tale of Mitra and herself and how Evelyn had accidently stepped in a small bog and got herself stuck, dragging Mitra who tried to help with a stick into the mud also. "...we were covered from head to feet and smelled like old mouldy socks!..." Evelyn laughs on its recounting, encouraging Mitra's own recount of the tale to enhance the humour.

[i:2thdz5w6]"Thank you for your opinion Zinnaella. See Eve'y he is a simpleton, pretty and thick."[/i:2thdz5w6] Mitra looks sad for the loss of life and holds Xerses hand and gives it a gentle squeeze. "You are very brave to recant such a tale to us. I can see it affects you still this day. I wish there was something I could do to ease your rest tonight, but sadly I don't have any tricks I can offer. Tomorrow we will take a trip to the market and i will see if I can find you some herbs that will aid you in getting a less fitful dream." She listens to Eve'y still squeezing Xerses hand gently, to reassure him. When Eve'y pipes up with the mud story she rolls her eyes. "Okay so let me set the scene. We are travelling through a bog to make our way to an out laying village that is fairly deep in the marshes. Eve'y is taking the lead cause she thinks that she knows the safest path. Suddenly theres a squelsh, a shlope, and Eve'y is knee deep in a bog. She let out a squeel as it started to seep into her boots. I rushed off and grabbed a stick from near a tree about this long." She spreads her arms about three foot wide. "So she takes one end and I've got the other. After a lot of heaving and huffing between the two of us. We here a sucking sound as if the mud is going to let her go. Then suddenly the stick snapped, I went flying forwardlanding on Eve'y, the mud gave way and we both ended up horizontal in the mud." She spreads her arms wide and bends down to represent the motion, she sits back up again her hair sweeping forward with the motion. "I'm sure you can imagine the scene both of us covered in mud. Well there was not much more we could do other than laugh and attempt to get up, which failed and we ended up having to sort of swim to the edge. We eventually made it to the village but we were covered in mud from head to toe and it took a good few baths to get it all out." She unconsciously starts to brush the mud off of her body. "I hope with that thought Xerses you can have a better nights sleep tonight." She smiles sweetly at the sailor.

Evelyn ignores Mitra's comment about Val, not wanting it to spiral into an argument, no matter how playful, or drag Zinnaella further into their conversation, although she is tempted to ask Zinnaella directly about Mitra's statement later, she ignores the urge for now. Evelyn lets out an involuntary yawn, "Yes it is getting a bit late I suppose," she says. "But we have yet to see Miro, so I can't go to bed yet." she smiles. She looks around at the others for something to take her mind of her tiredness.

"thank you both, that is a funny story" X smiles as he imagines the two girls, who are currently the picture of civility, covered head to toe with just the whites of their eyes peeking out and lets out a chuckle. "As for sleep, you needn't worry about me, aye it was a dark day, but I'd rather have a fitful sleep than not wake up at all, let's not forget that we're a long ways from home. I don't want to seem paranoid, but there's something about this town that gives me the creeps"

"Agreed" replies Evelyn, "I feel we are on the verge of something happening, I did not like the look between Miro and the Mayor."

"I don't think it is anything we can influence, we just acted as a catalyst in whatever it is." She sips her wine "There is no point fretting about what we cannot change. Some wheels turn and even we cannot slow them. To coin a phrase, 'We just have to ride the wave.' That is a sea phrase is it not Xerses?"

"I've been hearing gossip of tensions between the towns mainly due to food and water becoming in short supply." "Still, not to worry about all that now there's still plenty of cider to drink for tonight at least in this pub. Best to drink it while it's still available." Smiles broadly.

"As the night is drawing to a close and our merriment is turning to conversation and alcohol, lets try tale telling," suggests Evelyn. She gestures the others to sit around the table (if they are not already), conveniently gesturing Val to sit next to her on one side (Mitra on the otherside), in a subtle fashion. "Does anyone else know of a good tale to tell us?" she says eyes bright. "Val? Postavicka? Zinnaella? [i:3glhu7lp] 'Mitra?'[/i:3glhu7lp] She says with a smile.

"If not a tale, perhaps a story of your past," Evelyn adds. "So we might know and understand one another better."

Val gladly accepts Eve's invitation and sits next to her. "Well, I'm not a good story teller... I prefer to hear stories from others. In fact I'm an excellent listener, that's why I got big ears !" he laughs.

Evelyn smiles and politely laughs at Val's joke. She turns to the group saying, "Ok then let me tell you a short tale, that I heard while travelling here with Mitra." she leans closer and speaks in a hushed conspiratal whisper, "There was once a monk at a mission, who loved money and power more than he loved his God. He would hear the confession of the good folk who attended the mission, and then would blackmail them into giving him gold and silver to keep their darkest secrets. He turned many a wayward sinner's feet towards the fires of hell rather than the gates of their god's heaven, encouraging their crimes in secret while he reviled them in public. It was after he beat one poor old woman to death that the evil monk was imprisoned and sentenced to hang for his crimes. But just after he was cut down from the noose and pronounced dead, his corpse began to transform before the horrified eyes of the people! The face twisted and small tusks sprang from either side of his nose. His shock of white hair grew long and greasy, and two pointed canines emerged from his slit of a mouth. The goblin-monk opened eyes that glowed yellow even in the light of noon-day, and sprang to feet that now ended in claws rather than toes. The people screamed and fled, and no prayer of his former brothers-in-faith could banish the goblin. It disappeared deep into the forest, only to return at night and prey upon the monks of the mission who had been responsible for its death. After five of the brothers had fallen to the goblin, the rest of the monks abandoned the mission and moved to another part of the realm. Since that time, the mission-house has slowly.... fallen.... into ruin.... Anyone that enters or stays the night never returns..."

She outwardly smiles sweetly to Val but on the inside she is laughing at the elf. [i:2ug34cex]Yeah... he is a truely magical wizard with lines like that... pretty thick.[/i:2ug34cex]

[i:35undl7u]'he was just trying to be friendly...' [/i:35undl7u] sounds a friendly but defensive tone over the mindlink. Evelyn instinctively squeezes Val's hand at his side as she retorts over the mindlink and immediately retracts it, when she realises her action, giving him an apologetic smile.

[i:31gn04k6]Thats fine you can defend him, he would probably get lost in a conversation any way. Xerses was more vocal than the supposedly drunk Elf, and his story was very interesting, if not exactly about him.[/i:31gn04k6] She sips her wine and listens to Eve'y's story, nodding every now and again to confirm the story they had both heard.

"where was that monk from? so I'll know to stay away from it... then again, I've never seen a goblin before" everything seems normal at the table, but for some reason the girls keep giving each other weird looks, X shrugs it off, [i:128shu6p]women, I'm not going to even try...[/i:128shu6p]

[i:3a7kk4vp]'I understand why you like Xerxes...' [/i:3a7kk4vp]come over the mindlink Evelyn looks at Xerxes, appraisingly, [i:3a7kk4vp] .....'and he may be more vocal than Val but it is a moot point as Xerxes as shown no interest in me and seems more interested in yourself....'[/i:3a7kk4vp] To Xerxes she says softly, "We heard the tale west from Belfor in one of the neighbouring villages on our way to Belfor." [i:3a7kk4vp] '.. and in anycase if I were to choose someone other than Val, it would not be him, I would approach, but would be..... oh nevemind!'[/i:3a7kk4vp]

Mitra gives Eve'y a slanted look [i:2w8i2rl2]"You really don't give up do you. I am not attracted to him."[/i:2w8i2rl2] The last sentance sounds like a strope and a foot fall if it was said out loud. She looks quizical for a second before replying [i:2w8i2rl2]"What makes you think he is interested in me? Do you see anything Zinnaella?"[/i:2w8i2rl2] A look of triumph comes accross her face [i:2w8i2rl2]"No go on if it isn't Val because he isn't the sharpest pencil in the box, who would it be? Certainly not the midget? Nor the rugged druid buff'un... OH MY GODS IT'S NOT THE DROW?!"[/i:2w8i2rl2]

Wine sprays out of Evelyn's mouth in shock. She looks at the group, blushing and says softly, "Sorry." [i:m6z780wb]'The Drow! not in a million years! not even if he were the last male in the entire universe and its entire existence depended on us mating..' [/i:m6z780wb]comes back over the mindlink. [i:m6z780wb]'Postavicka may be small, but he is big in kindness, Vox, he may be rugged but you know what they say about wild men,' [/i:m6z780wb]comes a giggling voice over the mindlink,[i:m6z780wb] 'but whose to say its someone in our group...'[/i:m6z780wb] [i:m6z780wb]'anyway I shall not say who it is, Im sure Zinnaella has heard enough of our prattle and would rather she be allowed to concentrate on the conversations outside of her head rather than inside....'[/i:m6z780wb]

Zinnaella was working on her glass of wine. [i:3rpebjke]Fourth? Fifth? Oh, who's counting?[/i:3rpebjke] she thought to herself, almost tuning out the other two women temporarily - until Mitra directed a question at her. [i:3rpebjke]Huh? I see many things,[/i:3rpebjke] she looks at Mitra and then squints a little, [i:3rpebjke]including two of you. Another mind trick?[/i:3rpebjke] As Evelyn spits her wine in shock, Zinnaella starts laughing out loud at the direction of the silent conversation. She doesn't seem to notice the looks her laughs get, although just as many are likely giving looks to Evelyn. "You know," she says once she stops laughing, "this reminds me." She takes another drink from her wine and looks at the almost empty glass. After a few moments she looks up to the others, who are looking at her as though they expected her to continue. "Oh, my story," she grins a little and finishes off her wine. "Actually, it's not a good one, and I'm too tired now." She gives an apologetic smile and then looks to the ceiling. "Such pretty lights... they," she says, and then she does a face plant onto the table, passed out.

Mitra is about to respond with another biting retort, when Zinnaella says her piece and then face plants the table. She sighs "I do think our little rogue'ish rascal has had a wee to much to drink. Eve'y would you mind giving me a hand to help her upstairs." She lifts Zinnaella up off the table and wipes the hair from her face, and behind her ears in case she is sick. Mitra stands up and positions herself on one side of Zinnaella, and lifts her gently up and puts one of her arms over her shoulder, waiting for Eve'y to do the same on the otherside.

"Of course!" Evelyn replies with concern in her voice. She goes to the other side of Zinnaella, putting a supportive arm around her. "Excuse us please," she addresses the group and helps Mitra to take her upstairs. When they reach the main bedroom, Evelyn, wipes Zinnaella with a wet cloth, to rouse her slightly from unconcsiousness. When Zinnaella responds groggily enough that she is satisfied no true harm has come from the poisoning effect of the alcohol, she undresses her and with Mitra's help places Zinnaella into her bed, drawing the blanket up high to her neck. "we should stay with her awhile, to ensure she is not sick in her sleep." Evelyn says softly to Mitra. "And I guess we should refrain from using the mindlink while her mind is joined with ours?" she adds

Mitra settles on the wooden floor her back positioned against the bed. "Your right, just in case she is sick." Mitra sighs, and rubs the back of her neck. "It's been a long night Eve'y, with a lot of hard truths. I would ask you not to be with Val but that is not your way and it would be like smoothering you." She stares at the floor "Just please remember I'm not the same as you, I can't give my heart to one person and then ride the prettiest elf that walks by or pays me attention." She rubs her arms subconsciously either to stave off the cold night air or to give herself some comfort. "I love you, I'm just not use to you doing this."

Evelyn sits down next to her, putting an arm around Mitra's shoulders. "I know..." she softly replies. "...and I love you too," and she kisses her.

Seeing Mitra and Evelyn leave, Postavi?ka says to the others still around "What's the story with Mitra and Evelyn, they do seem to be very close to each other."

As Evelyn and Mitra sit next to Zinnaella's bed on the floor, there is a moment of comfortable silence between the two. The sounds of the party below drift lazily up and Zinnaella's deep breathing, in sleep, from the alcohol, sounds behind them. As she lets her mind drift, the outside sounds seem to draw back almost to a whisper in her mind. Then from somewhere, just beyond the range of her hearing, she thinks she can hear a single... sharp...scream. Eve looks up but does not hear it again. "Mitra did you hear something?" she asks.

Mitra looks up and listens after a few seconds she looks at Eve'y "All I hear is the party below, and Zinnaella's heavy intoxicated breathing? Is there something else?"

Evelyn thinks on it for a moment, then says, "I thought I heard a scream, but maybe I heard something else.."

Val is amused by Posta's question. "I wish I knew little friend..." "All I know is that Evelyn saved Mitra's life, and since then they have always been together." "Oh, and the little one sees me as her rival because I like to chat with lady Evelyn. She even hates me perhaps." he laughs, as if it was a joke.

Mitra plays back in her mind the noises she heard since bringing Zinnaella into the room. "Nope I can't say I heard a scream. I can't even say that I heard anything like a scream. Maybe the alcohol is getting to you?" She says as she pulls Eve'y closer. "Maybe you should go to bed too Eve'y?"

"I am also going to bed, I'll see you in the morning Posta, shall we meet here for breakfast?" after Posta's response X nods his goodbyes and heads upstairs to the room, having had only 2 or 3 cider's thus far he navigates his way without incident. When he reaches the door he knocks and says "is everyone decent in there?"

Postavi?ka says goodbye to X. To Val he says "Your a rival for Evelyn's attention you say, I see. Evelyn is very attractive, she's got that 'i'll do anything under the covers' kinky look about her. I like my women smaller than me though, so I stick to gnomes, but she is very attractive." "So do you think you are going to get in there?"

"Dunno, I have no experience with human women. That could be... interesting at least I suppose." he smiles "You got any tips for me ?" he asks, laughing.

"Well, h'mmm confidence without arrogance is always a good start. I suppose if one is too keen then it gets to be desperate and that makes women turn away, women are like horses they spooke easy. But you might not need any silly advice from me man, that Eve lass, it did look to me like she fancies you. But we all know women can be rather unpredictable creatures."

"It's OK, Come in," Evelyn calls to Xerxes's standing on the other side of the door. When he walks in she says to him, "Thank you Xerxes, not all men would knock first." Turning to Mitra she replies, "Go to bed so soon?" she smiles with a mischievous glint in her eye, "We shall but before that happens I have one more dance to dance." She stands up and holds out her hand to Mitra, "would you do me the honour, M'lady?" she says in a jovial tone. "Its OK Xerxes is here now, Zinnaella will be ok," Evelyn adds, to lay any doubts to rest. [assuming Mitra agrees to dance - and Eve will do some persuading if she doesn't want too] Evelyn grabs Mitra's hand and in a haphazard way leads her through the corridor and down the stairs, laughing and giggling. Leading Mitra back into the taproom, they reach the dance floor, and in a mock 'posh gentleman' way, Evelyn turns to face Mitra, bowing to her then takes her hand and waist and guides her around the taproom, in a fun improvised dance, encouraging Mitra to laugh at every opportunity.

(Assuming Mitra comes down with Evelyn) As he see's Mitra and Evelyn come down and dance. He says quitely to Val "I think you may be right that little one could be an issue when it comes to getting it with Evelyn."

He looks at Posta. "I assume you are right. Thanks for the advice." As both Evelyn and Mitra come back down, he is surprised to see them dance, but smiles. "She sure seems happy when they are together." His smile fades as he says it.

As she dances with Mitra, she glances at their table and notices Val and Posta looking their way. As Val looks at her, she locks her eyes on his for a split second and gives him a dazzling smile, then carries on through the crowd of dancers, laughing.

"Yea man, they got a connection there I rekon, but but the way she's looking over here seems like Eve still likes you as well."

X nods to the ladies as he enters and silently goes about getting ready for bed, hunkering down in his bunk and relaxing. "don't worry about her, I'll make sure she gets to the head if she gets sick" ((a "head" on a ship is a washroom))

Postavi?ka downs the rest of his cider, "Now that's good cider." He puts his hand on Val's shoulder and says, "Well mate I'm off to bed. An I wouldn't want to cramp your style, good luck with Eve." With that he heads of to his room, the room that he's been sleeping in for years, but at least he's getting out of this place soon.

Mitra laughs almost constantly as the two glide around the floor, it's the serious look on Eve'y face that just makes her laugh every time. As the music slows and eventual the dance finishes , she curtseys to Eve'y and then when the next song start, a slow romantic number she slips her hands around Eve'y waist and holds her close as the two rotate slowly, body to body and head to head. "I love you Eve'y." they kiss passionately on the floor and continue till the music ends. They seperate again and Mitra curtseys once more, she then yawns "Oh excuse me I think it's about time I was getting to bed. Do you want to come or are you going to stay down here with the drunks some more?" She says with a giggle.

Evelyn brushes silver hair from her eyes. "You are right," she replies softly, "It is getting late and a lot of the group has already gone to bed." She guides Mitra over to the party's table, seeing Val sitting there, and says. "It has been a long and enjoyable night, but I think we will be retiring now." "I hope you enjoy the rest of the party, I only regret we didn't see Miro before we went to bed, but nevermind....Goodnight Val" she smiles at him. Her eyes linger on him for a moment longer, then she turns to Mitra and says, "Ok let's go."

As Evelyn is ready to go to sleep Val takes her arm. "Are you already sleepy ? I hoped we could use this night to discuss a little more before the true mission starts." "You seemed full of energy during the dance, if we stay we could perhaps get a word with Miro. What do you say ?" As Evelyn is thinking about the preposition, Val adds "Ok, I also buy you a wine if you want, but I really recommend you the cider." [Edit as Posta already went sleeping]

She smiles at Eve'y "Ok, lets go." then Val grabs Eve'y arm. Something in her snaps. She shoves herself in front of the elf between him and Eve'y "Don't you ever lay a hand on her again, or so help me, it will be the last thing you EVER do!" She is literally nose to nose with the elf. "We are going to bed. So why don't you stay up and talk with the wild man and the gnome, maybe even the drow will grace you with his company."

Val looks at Mitra and laughs, "Sorry, but I wanted to talk with Evelyn, not with you." he says it as if he would talk with a child. Then back at Eve, "I assume you have still the right to decide what you want to do." Ignoring Mitra he stands up and whispers to Eve "If you are interested come outside, I will wait." He then leaves the party, smiling. [i:tl0zsbdn]What an annoying little brat...[/i:tl0zsbdn]

(Note: Posta already went to bed before the dance finished. )

((Bravo)) ((I'll post shortly in another thread/section. Weaving in a little that shouldn't cause any timing issues.)) ((I believe Eve, Mitra, Tathza, and Val are still in the main room, unless Umslopagaas is present. Those present roll spot checks. All others roll listen, except Postavicka and Zinn, the later being in a state of, uhm, stupor. I am uncertain if when needed i should roll these for you or if that is frowned upon. I'll give you all time to respond and, if neccessary, post by sections (main room, boarding room etc))

continued in turn 11b....

(theres an error on page 20 so Than asked me to make post here instead) (Edit Than: I've fixed page 20, you all can look at that again) (continued on from where Val and Mitra have had a few words and Val has walked outside, asking Eve to join him) “Whomever I choose, I shall hurt the other,” Evelyn says softly to no one in particular. As Val leaves, Evelyn turns to Mitra and says, “Mitra, you know I love you and will leave with you as you knew I would, but it is not right what has just happened and it is not fair to either of you.” She adds, “Val needs to understand he can’t do what he just did. I must go and talk to him for a moment.” “Wait for me here or wait for me upstairs, but please let me do this. I will not be long.” Evelyn hugs Mitra ‘I love you’ and walks outside into the cold night. At first she cant see him, till her eyes adjust and she walks toward him. She thinks she saw his eyes light up on her approach but the serious look on her face, dissolves that moment, “Val… …Im sorry I can’t stay out here with you. I told you how I feel towards you, and that has not changed but I can’t hurt Mitra in this way.” She says softly. “This is all new to her and she needs time to adapt to who I am. If you want to spend time with me, you need to be more subtle in your actions, a confrontation in any form, will lead to people getting hurt....I have told you our relationship is complex so please understand that in this instance I cant stay here with you.” Before he can reply she takes hold of both his hands and leans into him kissing him lightly on the lips “Please be patient.” She whispers. She kisses him lightly on the lips once more and slips from his grasp, walking back into the tavern.

spot check [dice:i4zyrn4y]20+5[/dice:i4zyrn4y]

(Bravo) (I'll post shortly in another thread/section. Weaving in a little that shouldn't cause any timing issues.) (I believe Eve, Mitra, Tathza, and Val are still in the main room, unless Umslopagaas is present. Those present roll spot checks. All others roll listen, except Postavicka and Zinn who, uhm, is stuporous.) Reposted as I think it is lost on page 20.

The axe still stuck in the barrel vibrated to the will of the Telepath, just as it was about to wrench free and sink into something wholey flesh and warm, Eve'y spoke softly. The axe stopped vibrating and the dwarf who thought he had drunk far to much this night scratched his head and carried on drinking. "Did you hear how he just spoke to me." She seaths with anger the emotion plainly lit accross her face. "Either of us... either of us... I don't care for him Eve'y, and you shouldn't either I have ribbed you enough about your foulish fantasy of that Elf. I strongly urge you to go out that door and tell him where to go. You can't say you love me and then let your lover talk to me like that." The rage is building again and this time the dwarf actually gets up and take a step towards the axe as it vibrates in it's joist. "Maybe you should sleep with him tonight, cause your damn well not going to sleep in the same bed as me." The ever faint sound of wood beginning to strain can be heard by the dwarf. "Go speak to the fool but if I don't get an apology, from that cretin, in the morning then I wont help him in this quest. If he dies due to his own actions or those of the enemy then I wont shed a tear. He doesn't even want to speak to you about the quest otherwise he would have spoken here and not walked outside, and he would have included me. He is a liar, and you can't even see it Eve'y. Right in front of your nose." The axe breaks free the dwarf ducks and the axe flies and buries itself into the wood work beam next to Eve'y. She doesn't notice as she storms up the stairs thudding with each step. Spot Roll [dice:2kilip37]1d20[/dice:2kilip37]

Evelyn cringes slightly as the axe embeds itself near to her head. She watches Mitra go and sighs. She leaves the taproom to have her brief conversation with Val (as post above) then returns to the taproom. She knows shes not welcome upstairs upsetting the person there and has probably upset the person outside aswell. [i:3neelyxp]'you've only yourself to blame'[/i:3neelyxp], she thinks to herself as she stands in the taproom by herself.

Val doesn't really belief what is happening. "So you prefer that meet behind Mitra's back ? Well, I'm fine with whatever pleases you." After the kiss he just adds "You know where to find me..." After 10 minutes he walks back into the inn. As he passes near Eve he simply nods and says good night as he walks up the stairs into their room. [dice:1oovpg8w]20+2[/dice:1oovpg8w]

[dice:1vr6ovww]1d20[/dice:1vr6ovww] listen check... but I'm upstairs relaxing, so I doubt I'll hear anything.

Eve barely acknowledges Val, totally lost in her own thoughts. After a while she realises she is tired, so slowly makes her way upstairs. The sound of sleeping comes from within the room. She looks at the still forms of Mitra and Val, and sighing once more, finds an empty bed to lay down her head and sleep...

(sorry this post may be too early but im off now so wanted to set tone for Eve over next few days while im gone) The following morning Eve wakes up in a somber mood. Her eyes are tired looking and emotionless. She is quiet and stays out of the general conversation, deep in thought. [if Mitra approaches her asking what is wrong or try to be close to her she will reply] "I have caused great pain to you, and dont wish to cause more but I need some time on my own, to know my every action wont cause you more pain. I need to let you live awhile." [if Val approaches her asking the same/similar she will reply] "Val, all I do is cause others pain, you can do better than me. I need some time alone, to think things through abit, I can't say anymore than that." [if anyone else - replies with] "I'm fine, but there are many things on my mind, that only I can find out the answers too." [think that's it - Im off now - have fun!]

After hearing Eve'y go to bed, to a different bed. She waits for her to settle, into a deeper breathing. Mitra curls into a ball tightly and sobs, she has never felt lonel'ness since finding Eve'y but now she is leaving her for the elf. She will be alone again with no one to care for her. She weeps for the loss, and curls tighter. She feels something brush against her hair, and then a soothing whisper of a noise. She curls tighter she knows where this leads, the voice coos quietly and chids her. She doesn't want to listen doesn't want to go back but the choices are few. The wind blows coldly through the sheets even through the window is closed. Slipping would be so easy. [Man automated responses... she's turned into a robot!!]

He killed his first at 14. Under their favorite tree, he cupped his sister's chin in his hand and underneath it, too quickly, ran the knife across her throat. He fumbled as youth do and the cutting was not as clean as later ones wound be. For a moment, as pain flashed in her eyes, he worried and felt fear at his decision. But at the end, a faint flicker of a smile on her lips, he had her peace and let her go. His second kill would be his only regret in life. It was messily done and too quick. The only kill of all he had completed that he would wish to do again. A chance to make it agonizing slow and painful, to revel in its doing. Instead, he took the wood axe and met his father in their one room hut. He caught him with blow at angle that just allowed a moment of recognition in his father's eyes before he was twitching on the floor. In anger, he had chopped until exhausted and then sat throughout the night with the axe in his hands amid the carnage until morning and purpose filled his feet. In the corner shadows, he wondered at the return of the memory of it. Usually, he hide it deep. After so many years, it unsettled him, not the memory or the emotions surrounding it, but the fact that it should bubble up unasked for. His employer at the moment, sat at his desk in the center of the room with only a single candle for light. "Quick and simple," his employer said. "Nothing dramatic and no signature." The assassin shrugged. Occasionally, he did such tasks even though he was much more sought after for killing that needed a statement appended to them. Deaths that needed it to be known that he had done them. Artwork that sent a message and changed decisions or alliances. The man behind the desk tossed him a pouch of coins. The assassin caught them without making a sound. He turned to go when his employer's voice made him pause. "There will be other men also there." The assassin half turned. "Others?" "For show only. They will only be scapegoats to cover your trail." "You make unnecessarily complications," the assassin said, his voice staying even. He was not one who needed 'others' and they would be a hindrance, endangering both him and innocents. "Recall them." "What is done is done," the employer said haughtily, but barely had time to finish the sentence before the pouch of coins landed squarely on the desk. "Then your confidence is with them and not I," the assassin said turning to leave. "Refuse me and all will know of it," the employer said with a smirk. The assassin didn't even pause, his place in the world secure and unshakable. Death alone held preference over his impact. The employers words were empty. Disappearing through the window, the employer was left alone in the quiet and his smirk turned somber. He had made a mistake. If he ever needed the assassin again, his quibbling would cost him. ********************************************************************************************************************************* (to The Lonely Miner) Late into the evening, Miro's party sang. Games and fun. Friends, neighbors, and community. It was not without its disagreements, some drunken, others not, but it was even handed and in the end full of laughter and jokes. Through this weaved a bit of smoke, low to the floor, a sliding snake of purpose and opportunity. A little flash of steel and deadly intent in the hands of a few well placed amid the crowd, easily concealing vision fixated on prey. Val'anthis alone sees it as he heads for the stairs, left in the main room with the leaving of the others. Three men skirting the edge of the bottom step. Two others making way towards him, hands low and hidden. Umslopagaas is somewhere there in the crowd, but there is so much noise. ((All. Please place tiles on new map. Room created in somewhat 2d space. Val place icon in main room and I'll place rest. Only Val has knowledge of impending attack. All rest are in rooms and so far can not hear coming attack. Also, knowing that I am posting multiple places at once, I understand if you wish to post in Interlude first, then play on. I will amend post if Tathza spots well assuming he is still in the room also, unless my reading quickly today missed his retiring to the room.))

(I never left the room) Spot [dice:en0pvh6d]1d20[/dice:en0pvh6d]

Tathza remains at his seat, unaware of the men moving through the crowd to the stairs and Val'anthis. ((Tathza. Please place Icon in main room. There is a table up top open))

((I will edit this post when I understood the situation ^^ Is the main room the one where the party is being held or the one where we sleep ? I assume it's where the party takes place. Where should Val be as the action takes place ? On the left or right side of the door "c"/stairs. Oh, and who are the other 2 men Val sees ? I see three shadowy figures, are the 2 others those with tattoos/sigils on their face ?)) ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- As the party goes on, Val spots some sneaky figures. [i:47vjugk6]Who are they ? Assassins ? Better go inform the group.[/i:47vjugk6] Before he goes to Tathza and Umslop, Val concentrates and casts Detect Poison to analyze one of the suspects. "I hope you aren't too tired," he tells them, "it seems the real action will start now. Look at those guys, they seem quite suspicous."

((Val sees three men heading upstairs. Two others weave through the crowd toward him. The main room is the room which the party takes place, whereas the sleeping room is the one I added. Once your icon is placed, I will place the other two attackers in the room. I erased the original Val in the room. The one place by the stairs is too close to make sense. If you could place Val in any square not marked 'x', I'd appreciate it.)) Edit 1: I placed the other two in the Tavern Room after seeing Val had been replaced. They're obvious and the icons are the same as the ones in the short hallway thru the door.

Tathza gives Val a look and smiles. "Well I did not think we would be so lucky as to have such a grand party with free flowing ale and get out of it without a fight. You know its not really a party until someone gets broken. Or maybe thats just a drow saying?" Tathza goes thru his spells feeling their power. He flexes the fingers in his hands also taking note of the new ring he was wearing in one. It would take some time for him to get used to wearing the ring but then again comfort came second to power.

The shadow men close on Tathza, Val, and Umslopagaas. One slides around a table and another up the short stairs leading to the back area. The party, seeing them come, has initiative for action before melee closes. Val'anthis castes a spell. Invisible power flows like ripples of heat from desert sand and surrounds the man closes to him. A black web forms from around the dagger the man carries close to his body to hide it from view, a filigree of death, an omen of intent. These men are not here for a tavern brawl against non-residents. They mean to kill, to bring everlasting night, and transition to dust. Two men against three is even odds at most. But out of view three walk like a small breeze, cautious, up the stairs to a party mostly asleep.

Detecting what he feared, he informed his companions. "Dammit, they carry poisoned weapons !" "There are three more near the stairs, we should alert the rest of the group as soon as we can. Do you have an idea ? Perhaps a spell..." But right now, they sould concentrate on their own problems. "Has anyone a weapon he could lend ? Mine are in our room. Even a small dagger would be appreciable." [Val accepts any weapon he can get, if no one lends him one he tries to get a bottle and breaks it on the table. I dunno how many actions that would cost, if he has the time Val also casts Bless.]

Tathza lets out a breath again. Why did he constently have to deal with novice. Perphaps these assassins would be a good lesson to those that lived about being prepared. Tathza was always well groomed if he could manage it but did not bother to change as the others did. He pulled back his cloak and unhooked his Rapier tossing it to Val. And the surface elves wondered why the drow were stronger. "Here Val and make good use of it" Tathza still had his dagger if things got to close but then again any mage that was forced into melee needed far more training or had a very powerful enemy. Tathza hoped he would never find that answer and would do all he could to avoid it.

Near the beginning of the party, long before too much drinking or carousing and a fair time before any argument or hard spoken words, Miro gathers the party together. He does it quietly, so as to not make those gathered in his honor aware, but none of the party can feign indifference. After making his rounds about the tavern, talking to this person, sharing a laugh with a group of older retired miners, or simply acknowledging the presence of those who live in the city with him and have come to share community, Miro passes by each member of the party. For Evelyn, it is a brief open faced laugh at their dancing and on leaving mentioning that the garden is a great place this time of day, knowing that she'd understand and bring Mitra also, so as to save him another visit in her directions. For Xerxis, it is catching him unaware from behind in a great dwarven bear hug and whispering [i:18awgdrc]Garden in ten,[/i:18awgdrc] in his ear as he wrestles out of the hold. For Tathza, a quiet word while the Drow sits in the dark spinning magic lights about the place. For Zinnaella, it is subtle, secret, and a cautious playful game of shadows. He twinkles a smile when it dawns on her his meaning. For each party member, he makes the request to meet him in a short time in the garden then he slips out. A small time later, his bouncer eases from behind his books and out of his stool and follows. At the base of the stairs to the garden, Miro leaves the bouncer. "No disturbances Riller," he says. The half-ogre nods, his size alone daunting enough to dissuade the unwelcome. Riller smiles at Tathza as he passes, yellow sharp teeth and sniffs at Mitra and she either leads or is lead by Evelyn to the Garden. Once all are assembled, Miro begs off tending to winter squash vined in a trellis. "I'm sure there are many questions. But time is short, the need is great, and danger present. So, I've decided to assist you as I can and hope each of you return, knowing that where the danger lies, either the going or the returning, is uncertain," he continues holding up a hand to forestall early questions. "Difficult times either breed courage or foolish men. Unfortunately, each has purpose and a will to succeed. The courageous against the fools and vice versa. Oftimes that struggle takes preference over the difficulty that created them rather than a shared goal. I'm no seer and can not see the future, but this poor warrior feels change like a wound and pain is coming. What it is, I don't know. But there is something in the Hidden Riders that is tied to it and our best bet to find a path." Miro pauses. He looks tired for once, like a man of arms recently from a bloodied field. Reaching behind a bench, he pulls up a small chest. He thumps on is hard on a fast rhythm and says a word deep and grating in dwarven. The hinge clicks. ((If you know dwarven, then roll INT check DC15 to know the word. If you wish to remember the combination of hammering on the chest, roll spot and concentration DC15 and 20.)) He pulls a few items from the chest, handing out each before getting another. To Evelyn, he gives a Necklace of Remembrance. It is inscribed on the back. [i:18awgdrc]Speak softly and the wind repeats.[/i:18awgdrc] The activation word is 'Vitr.' A locket of spell storing. The spell may be activated as a free action. A spell must be stored/changed once per week. To Thatza, he gives a present and appends his giving. "From a friend." It is a flat blue ring with stars along the middle. A rings of magic missles. Once every other week, renewing. Activation is a free action by murmuring the word 'Etoile.' To Zinnaella, a small black dagger. Same stats as a normal dagger, except -2 ATT. When held and the word 'Fantome' said once per week, adjust AC by +2 for 2 hours. To Val'anthis, a seemingly innocuous length of cord. A bow wrapping from the Archers of Nuage. +1 ATT with bow having it wrapped as attachment. To Xerxis, he gives a small pendant, a red triangle on a black oval. +2 to track/move silently checks once per week. Activation word, 'Chien." To Postavicka, "Friend, may your beginning be less dangerous." He gives a Necklace of Remembrance. It is inscribed on the back. [i:18awgdrc]Speak softly and the wind repeats.[/i:18awgdrc] The activation word is 'Brise.' A locket of spell storing. The spell may be activated as a free action. A spell must be stored/changed once per week. To Umslopagaas, a weaved cord of vine. Attached to a wooden staff grants +1 to ATT. To Mitra, Miro pauses and looks at her long. It is a searching and uncertain. "I am uncertain what it does, but another young lady seemed to think it was pretty." He hands over a small anklet. "Perhaps it is only pretty. Perhaps." A number of priests have left the city to find answers to the heat and crop devastation. Miro is worried. Life turns on itself. Of the Mayor, he says little, except that he had saved his life once or more and that the Mayor had done likewise. But, he thinks, the Mayor has lost sense of himself and is concerned over the future of Prejete and it's people in the months to come. Miro entertains questions and wishes you luck along with friendship. His tavern is open in any time of need. ((A early party encounter. I understand that in RP you could have adjusted some things over the last few days, but it should sit well enough. And BTW, I enjoyed getting caught up with the posting.))

[quote="GeneT":3gt9qs5v]((If you know dwarven, then roll INT check DC15 to know the word. If you wish to remember the combination of hammering on the chest, roll spot and concentration DC15 and 20.))[/quote:3gt9qs5v]((Rolling all, in order asked - because why not try? ))[dice:3gt9qs5v]1d20+2,1d20+5,1d20+1[/dice:3gt9qs5v] [quote="GeneT":3gt9qs5v]To Zinnaella, a small black dagger. Same stats as a normal dagger, except -2 ATT. When held and the word 'Fantome' said once per week, adjust AC by +2 for 2 hours.[/quote:3gt9qs5v] Zinnaella accepts the dagger and looks it over closely. "Much thanks," she says softly - overwhelmed by the gift. After the meeting with Miro, she runs upstairs and removes her concealed dagger, replacing it with the new one. [i:3gt9qs5v]Black dagger for a black dress,[/i:3gt9qs5v] she thinks as she straightens her dress out and heads back down to the party.

Autohypnosis Roll to remember the sequence and words. [dice:1fsh17hg]1d20+3[/dice:1fsh17hg] She accepts the anklet looking it over, she raises a leg and preaches it on the bench then clasps the anklet around her ankle. It doesn't seem to do anything except sparkle but then thats enough. "Thank you master dwarf. Maybe one day we can return the favour shown to us. Althrough I'm still slightly confused by your crptic meanings. As far as we have been told the Riders are nothing but bandits. If it is just a feeling you have then I can accept that sometimes ones... gut... can be just as informative as ones, heart or ones head. The happiest of birthday wishes to you." She takes Eve'y hand and waits for the others smiling at the woman.

Xerxes grasps the dwarf's shoulder as he's given the pendant "thank you Miro, I have only just gotten to know you, but already you deem us worthy of your generosity, I can't speak for everyone, but I know we will endeavour to put these gifts to good use and seek a means to helping you and your town" ((just for clarification "To Xerxis, he gives a small pendant, a red triangle on a black oval. +2 to track/move silently checks once per week. Activation word, 'Chien" does this mean that I can apply a +2 to a track OR move silently roll once a week? or one of each once per week? thanks for making it relevant to my new level! I appreciate the attention to detail =) ))

((To Xerxis. One use per week. Single use. Your choice of skill.))

Miro listens to Mitra. "Alas, I wish it was just my belly talking. Travelers tell of other riders of similar nature across the land. They are thin, I admit. But to close, too similar. I know bandits in hard times. They rarely share a name or action. They're less organized and mean in intent. These rumors feel tied," the dwarf says. "Ah, maybe tis right and I'm getting old to long out of the field, jumpy for little sellers handing me fish for news while tending my garden and feuding with an old sword arm."

Tathza takes the gift and looks it over carefully. It would serve him well and he gave a smile and low bow to the dwarf. "My great thanks indeed, you are most kind" Tathza makes a point of moving back but does not leave waiting to have a word with the dwarf concerning his earlier task and what could come from the foolish mayor.

Postavi?ka is visibly touched by such generousity and says "Thankyou very much good friend. You are so kind to be helping us all this way. We hope to do our best in this mission and are so very grateful for these gifts." He tries examines the necklace and tries it on. After this meeting finishes and before the party begins Postavi?ka will go to his room and cast Mage armor into the necklace and hopes it will work when he needs it most and thinks to himself what a nice friend Miro is.

((Spot DC 15)) [dice:2pz4965s]20+2[/dice:2pz4965s] ((Concentration DC 20)) [dice:2pz4965s]20[/dice:2pz4965s] As Miro hands out different trinkets, Val isn't sure what to expect. [i:2pz4965s]A magical silk rope ?[/i:2pz4965s] But as his hands touch the cord he immediately understands it. He heard from such bow wrappings, well at least from one. The elder in his village had a bow, but it was lost after the raid. "Never thaught to see such a beautiful object again. Thank you very much Miro." After inspecting his gift he looks up to Miro. "I assume your feeling is right... Some of us have been getting vision. Something nasty is going on." As they all leave the garden, Val follow the group into their room and changes the bow's cord with his new gift. [i:2pz4965s]The elder named his bow Nuage, the elven word for cloud because he could shoot arrows that flew as high as the clouds in the sky... I hope it will give me the same strength.[/i:2pz4965s]

Miro sees Tathza waiting to leave the garden and gives him a nod. The drow had something to say, best as well hear it. "No offense," Miro says. "I did not mean to seem to order you about. But you angered me by putting Preil in danger. Perhaps I was too hasty and you did not realize or have sense enough to phrase your barb at the Mayor in a little less direct way."

umslopogaas is startled by the genaros gift that miro places in his hand he reconised it as somthing similer to what the tribes elder shame has tied to his staff! " thank you miro for you gift and your hospitality you are so gracius a host that you must be beloved of the spirits and the gods," umslopogaas looks again at the gift in his hand and is thoughtfull, a dark look passes over his visage " may the spirits look after you miro! and keep you well in these coming times for it seems that the very land it self is having the life sucked out of it, and surely the spirits in the pain will cause great trials and hardships to all thoughs that live on the land" and with that umslopogaas shudders and with draws in him self and stares in to the distance

Tathza hears the dwarf's words and shakes his head. "I am not angered at all or rather if I have caused this mess I must do everything I can to mend it. If you have any suggestions on the matter I would be more then welcome. You have done much for me in such a short time and I seem to have caused you trouble in return. It seems I am bound to correcting the actions I have caused. So is there anything I can do to amend what I have brought about?"

"What is done is done," Miro says. "Preil will stay in the tavern for a time," He continues. "I doubt the Mayor's minions will be so bold to step into the Lonely Miner over a mere dealer in magic items and curiosities." Miro absently scratches his beard and then shakes his head. "You've a mission to do and a place to be. By the time you return, I imagine the whole thing will blow over. Ride safe and travel light," he says shaking Tathza hand.

Tathza does not let go of his hand and gives him a hard look. "Dwarf are you not forgetting something?" Tathza brings his face in close and breaks into a impish smile. "You promised me elven wine my friend and a few old stories would not hurt"

The assassins close upon their targets. Separated and unprepared, the party is vulnerable. The distance is closed. The rest of Miro's well wishers remain unaware and continue to with much noise and laughter in celebration. Death could come without any notice, until someone slips on blood running along the floor. Val'anthis castes bless and grabs at a bottle on a nearby table and breaks it. (Unless Tathza or Umslopagaas gives him a weapon.) Away, in murky light, the other attackers quietly reach the door to the party's room. The door opens, creaking is unavoidable, and the assassins enter trying to maintain an edge of secrecy and soundless malice. (Tathza and Umslopagaas may post an action prior to entering melee as did Val'anthis. If you do nothing, then please state so and I'll continue. Those awake in the room, Mitra and possibly Xerxes, may roll listen checks for those entering at the door. Xerxes' icon is not set in the room yet.)

Mitra in her fit casts the cover off of her and rocks to one side of the bed, clasping the side of her head, she groans. Listen Check [dice:bl0dm728] 1d20 [/dice:bl0dm728] Evelyn rolls over in her sleep as the door creaks. Listen Check (-10 for sleeping) [dice:bl0dm728] 1d20-5 [/dice:bl0dm728] Mitra sits bolt upright having heard something. She looks over to the door, the masked figures look at her, they look at each other, Mitra looks at Evelyn, then they look at each other again. It's almost a silent scream, except it's quite loud and audible, so is the sound of a ping in everyones mind (everyone within 30 fee that is). As Mitra reaches out and attempts to crush the first masked figures mind. (Will Save DC16 - I marked the one I targeted with a 1) Mind Thrust Damage [dice:bl0dm728] 2d10 [/dice:bl0dm728] Evelyn still blurry eyed sits up and rubs her eyes, then she hears the scream and her mind instantly snaps back to what is going on in the here and now. She looks over to Mitra but as her head swings round she sees the light coming from the door way and three people she does not recognise standing there. Her brain takes about two seconds to register, before her body is in action. She reaches out to her god given powers and her faith is rewarded as a blessing on high baths her in the protection of her god. (Protection from Evil). She then pulls her morning star from under the bed.

Tathza see's the assassin making his way towards him. He thought him an easy target because he was a spell caster. He would regret such an insult. "Achuak ixen" A small globe of green rolling acid shoots thru the air towards the assassin. Ranged touch atk [dice:2mmgfvf6]1d20+2[/dice:2mmgfvf6] Lesser Orb of Acid [dice:2mmgfvf6]1d8[/dice:2mmgfvf6] (The dice gods hate me and next our DM will roll a crit and I will die I have gone to the casino and won on dice where everything is made to make sure you lose. Btw in case you did not catch it I gave my Rapier to Val in the other topic seeing as I seemed to be the only one that did not change clothes)

Zinnaella remains quite still in her sleep, her body completely relaxed in her passed out stupor. ((Gotta try: Listen with -10 for asleep, and -2 for drunk?))[dice:334vnzll]1d20-12[/dice:334vnzll] The sound of the door does not reach her in her sleep, but Mitra's scream does. She sits up at the scream, about to ask Mitra to be quiet. Then she notices them, the dark figures slipping into the room. She quickly draws out her newest dagger, muttering the word "Fantome" as she does. She rises to a kneel, her dagger held before her in a defensive stance - as the sheet placed over her slips down, revealing the nightgown the women had placed her in ((even if they didn't say so - they did... )) Zinnaella doesn't even have to look down to realize she's not wearing her armor, as the familiar feel of the nightgown presses against her skin. But this only causes her to blush a bit, as she knows the cloth of the gown is not the most appropriate to be seen in. [i:334vnzll]Damn attackers, damn armor, why couldn't these guys wait?[/i:334vnzll] As the *ding* goes off in her head from Mitra's ability, her left hand goes to her head. [i:334vnzll]Ugh, damn headache...[/i:334vnzll]

Listen check for scream, DC of 19 has been worked out as i'm asleep and doors [dice:3eizn5sb]20-1[/dice:3eizn5sb] (with that he wouldn't wake up if an elephant fell next to his bed )

listen check[dice:2unxg589]1d20[/dice:2unxg589] ((assuming I heard them coming, if not, let me know and I'll edit, but the result is the same)) Xerxes was lying in bed relaxing, listening to the sounds of his companions sleep and thinking about the road to come when suddenly he hears footsteps stop outside the door and the handle being manipulated ((why isn't it locked?!?!)) he instinctively puts his hand on his sword hilt beside him and then chastises himself for being jumpy [i:2unxg589]it's probably just Val or Tathza[/i:2unxg589], but then he sees them. X jumps out of bed, drawing his sword as he goes and yells out "aaahhhhh!!" not being able to think of anything in time, [i:2unxg589]say anything about Xerxes, say he's a fighter, you act or die, that's just the way of it. [/i:2unxg589] reaching the door he strikes out at the first man he comes across [dice:2unxg589]1d20+6[/dice:2unxg589] if I hit then [dice:2unxg589]1d8+4[/dice:2unxg589]damage ((no armor or shield so my AC is 11, and I am using two hands on my longsword hence the extra point of damage)) ((on a side note, I think Tathza's dice karma swung around and landed on me, thanks mate!))

Through the crowd or into the room the assassins or attackers weave. They are dressed in dark hooded cloaks and covered by cloth excepting their eyes and the skin of their hands. In the loudness of the party, they attack Tathza and Val'anthis. In the quiet of the sleeping rooms, their feet whisper on the floor and they waste no time with pleasantries. In the room, the first one through the door goes unerringly straight for Evelyn the Good. She, just barely rising, as Mitra's inaudible scream jolts her awake. He attacks. His rapier darting out seeking blood. Evelyn, scrambling, is nearly aware as the rapier hunts her and it points directly at her chest. The attacker feels triumph inexplicably fade when Evelyn turns to grab her mace, in a second foiling a killing blow and then casting her spell. At Val'anthis, another jabs with a dagger still appearing oily black to him from the detect poison spell. Death grins. But the attacker misses his footing and the blade ends wide of its intended target. Mitra focuses a numbing attack on the first through the door. He, the same one who advances on Evelyn the Good, continues as if nothing happened, shrugging off Mitra's attack like it never occurred. But he does look at Mitra and in that brief moment something passes between them. He registering her presence. Mitra knowing these men mean not to scare or rough them up, but to kill them dead. Xerxis catches the first man as he strikes at Evelyn the Good. His sword digs deep into the man's flesh and he wobbles some dropping his left arm, blood blossoming from the rent in his cloak. Tathza's spell fizzles. The assassin to slippery for him to find in the intervening distance. As expected, the man darts at Tathza, a curved dagger slices the air, but the drow easily evades the blow and the man, suddenly off balance from vaulting over the railing, bangs his hand on a barrel and the dagger looses from his grip and goes skittering across the floor. In the room, the other two assassins advance on Zinnaella and Xerxis. One misses with a dagger and the other with a short sword. A few people nearer Val'anthis and Tathza see the fight. At first they back up thinking it a tavern brawl, even if unexpected at the Lonely Miner and especially on this day. They for these brief moment take no action and the rest are still unaware. Death, at least for the moment, remains unsatisfied. ((Xerxis, I placed you in the room.))

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- [color=#0000BF:1zcvvv4a]Xerxes: ac:19 af:18 at:14 hp:11 dm: 00 Val'anthis: ac:17 af:14 at:13 hp:13 dm: 00 Zinnaella: ac:16 af:12 at:14 AC no armor (14+2(dagger)=16) hp:12 dm:00[/color:1zcvvv4a] [color=#BF0040:1zcvvv4a](Drunk) [/color:1zcvvv4a] [color=#0000BF:1zcvvv4a]Evelyn Good ac:14 af:14 at:10 AC no armor (10) hp:15 dm:01 HIT for 1 Mitra: ac:12 af:10 at:12 hp:16 dm:00 Tathza Sabran: ac:12 af:10 at:12 hp:09 dm:00 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Postavi?ka: ac:10 af:09 at:10 (10) hp:16 (16) (Asleep) ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Umslopogaas: ac:16 af:14 at:12 (Not leveled) hp:? Bollo Wolf: ac:14 af:12 at:14 hp:20 dm:00 Blessed: Val'anthis, Tathza, Umslopagaas, Bollo AC+2 : Zinnaella (Listed above) [/color:1zcvvv4a] ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ((Combat resolved. Your go. Please inform me if I missed anything.))

X redoubles his efforts and again attacks the man he wounded yelling "over my dead body!" [dice:z7sp07sc]1d20+6[/dice:z7sp07sc] to confirm crit: [dice:z7sp07sc]1d20+6[/dice:z7sp07sc] and damage if it hits with no crit: [dice:z7sp07sc]1d8+4[/dice:z7sp07sc] damage if it crits: [dice:z7sp07sc]2d8+8[/dice:z7sp07sc]

Tathza was glad for his luck. But he was not happy about allowing the enemy to get so close. "Come on then and die" Tathza had his dagger in hand and comes on to attack the assassin (1) [dice:xah1ow24]1d20+1+1[/dice:xah1ow24] If I hit [dice:xah1ow24]1d4[/dice:xah1ow24]

Val sees the second attacker loosing his weapon when trying to attack the mage. Val takes the opportunity and changes his target ((takes a 5 ft. step, attacks rogue 1)). [dice:k6ffxjrm]20+4[/dice:k6ffxjrm] [dice:k6ffxjrm]1d6+2[/dice:k6ffxjrm] ((It seems like I used my good rolls during the RP section... ))

Mitra can see the intentions of these men. They wish the greatest of harm. She focuses her mind for just a brief second while she works out the statistical probablity of the fight. She flashes a wicked grin then lashes out with her mind at the third man through the door the one that is focused souly on Zinnaella. She can feel his thoughts his emotions, the steady calm as his blood pulses through his brain. She pushes all her fear, all her anger, all her emotion into the man over riding his senses. Mind Thrust - Rogue #5 (Will Save DC 16) [dice:6e8ungyn] 2d10 [/dice:6e8ungyn] Evelyn mean while felt the pin prick in her chest, but instead of cowering away from the sources she summons all her anger that she feels for herself, all the possible hatred she feels for letting down her companion Val and her lover Mitra. She swings the morning star and the man. Roll to Hit Rogue 3 - (Just noticed Xam forgot to add his +1 BAB which counters Eve's low strength) [dice:6e8ungyn] 1d20 [/dice:6e8ungyn] Roll to Confirm Critical - (I also noticed the only weapon not in the SRD is the Morning Star, so i had to actually look it up in the PHB) [dice:6e8ungyn] 1d20 [/dice:6e8ungyn] Damage Roll [dice:6e8ungyn] 1d8-1 [/dice:6e8ungyn]

Zinnaella remains in position, just barely able to make out the position of the man before her. She knows he's there, along with some friends, but she can't seem to focus well enough to tell where. Not to mention the churning of her stomach and the throbbing of her head, this was not a good night for Zinnaella to try to fight. So, she wouldn't. [i:1znmi5ao]If I can keep this one busy, hopefully everyone else can take care of the other attackers.[/i:1znmi5ao] Zinnaella moved her arm and foot, fully taking a defensive stance before her attacker. "What's the matter?" she asks after his attack on her fails. "Can't you hit a drunk girl in a nightgown?" Even as she asks, her words are slurred a little, reinforcing the fact that she is indeed still drunk. ((Use Dodge feat on #5 and Total Defense gives +6 dodge bonus to AC, so Total AC vs #5 = 23))

Happily in sweet adventuring dreams, Listen check (DC 19 ?) [dice:xuqywmui]20-1[/dice:xuqywmui] (Looks like he might sleep through this)

Death begins to feast. Luckless souls fill the quota. But hunger is a difficult thing to quench like the thirst of a man who has walked the desert and has his first cup of clear water, cold across his lips he desires more and more. Death's appetite does not satiate. Xerxis cleaves the assassin threatening Evelyn nearly in two. The man staggers under the weight of his strike, falling back into death's arms, his eyes widening. Evelyn Good steps over the fallen assassin and strikes another. Her mace slams into his left shoulder and bones break. The assassin turns unwilling to give and run. Life is nothing without one's word. He'll die trying to kill her. Mitra lashes out. Tendrils of power unseen. The assassin before Zinnaella screams out and grabs his head, drops his weapon as blood pours from his ears and nose. Crumpling to the floor, he shudders and writhes as death takes him. Zinnaella's night grown grazing his cheek like a soft kiss goodbye. Tathza and Val'anthis fight nearly side by side. The drow swipes with his dagger and misses, but the assassin is distracted and poorly defends against Val'anthis' lunge. The rapier digs deep and returns wet with blood. Umslopagaas and Bollo attack as one, but lack coordination. The assassin easily steps out of the way. Assassins dodge and strike each with purpose to kill, each with a word to uphold. Each with poor luck as their blades swing wide. In those initial moments, the tavern begins to understand that the party is under arms against more than just fists and feet. They awaken as Miro's half-orc bouncer roars from behind his tables, upsetting his books, pens and paper. Pages scatters into the air and he crashes through tables into the fight. Miro tries to push through but so many people in his way blocks his passage. His voice can be heard over the din, yelling directions. "Defend Miners. Defend." Postavi?ka groggily turns over in his bed. Death is in the tavern and desires his presence. The main tavern room erupts and shares a wall with his room. Awake, Death says, I wish your soul. Postavi?ka's eyes snap open at Miro's yell too arms. Although having only been in the Lonely Miner for a couple days, the party has made friends. Maybe it is their association with Miro or something else, but those of the tavern think them family. A rush begins. Men and women without weapons rush to aid. A chant begins somewhere and Tathza begins to hear dark words of power muttered. Time will tell, but the Lonely Miner wakes. Evelyn Good spits a bit of darkness over her lips. It black as ink. Death whispers to her like calling a child to its side. Little time. Poison begins to settle. She looses a single point of life from it. (Editted x 1)

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- [color=#0000BF:1dhn9wik]Xerxes: ac:19 af:18 at:14 hp:11 dm: 00 Val'anthis: ac:17 af:14 at:13 hp:13 dm: 00 Zinnaella: ac:16 af:12 at:14 AC no armor, full defense:23) hp:12 dm:00[/color:1dhn9wik] [color=#BF0040:1dhn9wik](Drunk) [/color:1dhn9wik] [color=#0000BF:1dhn9wik]Evelyn Good ac:14 af:14 at:10 AC no armor (10) hp:15 dm:02 HIT for 1, [/color:1dhn9wik][color=#BF0000:1dhn9wik]Poison 1[/color:1dhn9wik] [color=#000080:1dhn9wik] Mitra: ac:12 af:10 at:12 hp:16 dm:00 Tathza Sabran: ac:12 af:10 at:12 hp:09 dm:00 Postavi?ka: ac:10 af:09 at:10 (10) hp:16 (16) ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Umslopogaas: ac:16 af:14 at:12 (Not leveled) hp:? Bollo Wolf: ac:14 af:12 at:14 hp:20 dm:00 Blessed: Val'anthis, Tathza, Umslopagaas, Bollo AC+2 from dagger : Zinnaella (Listed above) [/color:1dhn9wik] ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ((Combat done. Your go. Please inform me if I forgot something. Luck to the dead))

Evelyn steps round and clocked the one closest to Mitra. Mitra flashed a smile at the woman, who instead of joining the excitement and the joy of this combat, cluching a wound that was weeping slowly, she looked more like she was going to faint. This had to end now, she reached once more for the man in front of her she reached with as much power as she could. She felt his mind, he was weak but not beaten he still had resolve, but she would take that away. Target Rogue 4 with a Mind Thrust (Will Save 16) [dice:vutabzvg] 2d10 [/dice:vutabzvg] After the blow connected with the Rogue, Evelyn suddenly felt light headed and almost collapsed, as she regained some sense about her she raised her morning star once again and feebly atacked at the man in the hood in front of her. To Hit Roll [dice:vutabzvg] 1d20+2 [/dice:vutabzvg] Damage Roll [dice:vutabzvg] 1d8-1 [/dice:vutabzvg] She saw Mitra steping forward bending her will to crushing the man no doubt, she half smiled, that woman would never stop, to keep her safe. She stumbled to the right as a wave of nausia fell over her. Fort Save [dice:vutabzvg] 1d20+4 [/dice:vutabzvg]

Tathza was truely getting annoyed at this point. He lashed out with his dagger again at the Assassin (1). To hit [dice:k4fh6qg0]1d20+1+1+2[/dice:k4fh6qg0] If I hit [dice:k4fh6qg0]1d4[/dice:k4fh6qg0]

Xerxes continues to press the fight, only one left... but that doesn't mean he's any less dangerous... circling his opponent he makes a powerful two-hand swing slashing at the assassin ((assuming he's still standing after Mitra's attack, otherwise I grab my shield and don it and take up a defensive position at the door)) [dice:3rouqqrp]1d20+8[/dice:3rouqqrp] ((edit: crap!)) and if it hits.. [dice:3rouqqrp]1d8+3[/dice:3rouqqrp]

Val notices that the tavern's customers are willing to aid. "I doubt this will end good for you guys" he says at the assassins, smiling. At the same moment he strikes with the blade again. [dice:25nz79b9]20+4[/dice:25nz79b9] ((Edit for confirming crit)) [dice:25nz79b9]20+4[/dice:25nz79b9] [dice:25nz79b9]1d6+2[/dice:25nz79b9] ((if crit, add)) [dice:25nz79b9]1d6+2[/dice:25nz79b9] ((if the assassin is killed)) As the rapier hits the aggressor in a weak spot he yells, "this one should be finished, let's go and help our wild friends now !" ((takes a 5ft step into assassin 2's direction))

Listen to see if there is a fight in Mitra's room [dice:2ogzqnj0]20-1[/dice:2ogzqnj0] That's low, he's likely to go to the main tapper room. Crap there's a fight in the pub he thinks. Quickly he pulls on his trousers (move action) and goes as quick as possible as his little legs carry him to the main tapper room.

Zinnaella watches the man before her fall, screaming and blood pouring out. [i:1grjgftd]Thanks Mitra[/i:1grjgftd] she thinks as she steps around the body of the fallen man. ((If Mitra's Mind Thurst does not drop the last one in the room:)) Zinnaella moves up between Xerxes and Mitra, making sure that the assassin can't get to Mitra without her having a chance to hit him as he moves (prepared for an AoO). As she moves into her position she strikes out with her dagger, giving the would-be assassin yet another thing to think about. ((Attack and damage))[dice:1grjgftd]1d20+2-2-2,1d4+1-2[/dice:1grjgftd] ((If the last assassin falls to Mitra:)) Zinnaella looks at the others as Xerxes moves to cover the door, "Ok, what the hell is going on?"

umslopogass wakes from the trance that he was in and finally notices the danger the party is in and grabbing his staff he lashes out with a flurry of blows at the assassin rolling my first attack [dice:tfpjk5an] 20+2+1 [/dice:tfpjk5an] damage if i hit [dice:tfpjk5an] 6+2 [/dice:tfpjk5an] 2nd attack [dice:tfpjk5an] 20+2+1 [/dice:tfpjk5an] damage if i hit [dice:tfpjk5an] 6+2 [/dice:tfpjk5an] also as a free action im gonna use handle animal to commmand bolo to attack the assassin (dc 10) [dice:tfpjk5an] 20+4 [/dice:tfpjk5an] (( this isant the most impressive rolling))

bollo runs round the table and attacks the assassin bollos attack[dice:1lpop1es] 20+3 [/dice:1lpop1es] damage [dice:1lpop1es] 6+1 [/dice:1lpop1es]

The pace of death's feasting quickens as a beating pulse spends blood on the floor and then slows. It is this moment that transition takes place. The briefest of seconds just after eyes dilate as the brain begins to fade to the freeing of the soul. A juxtaposition of life and death in the same space until the latter supersedes the former. An interval without time when Vecer assists the movement from one existence to another and the promise or curse of what waits there. The assassins falter one after another. Evelyn Good weakens. Mitra's anger courses into the last assassin's mind. Physically he throws back his head and collapses in a fitful heap. Legs and arms flailing about like a windmill whose wings have detached from their supports but still hang by the merest of connections. A few uncoordinated last coughing breaths and he lays still. A quiet descends for just a few seconds. Xerxis and Zinnaella have no target to attack. The three bodies of the assassins litter the floor. Evelyn Good fails, poison coursing through her veins. Blood cells exploding starting a cascade of clotting and disseminated bleeding, an uncontrolled state of disequilibrium in her bodily machine. (Evelyn takes 3 more points damage) Tathza and Val'anthis work like brothers in arms. Each strikes the assassin before he has a chance to respond, Tathza slicing with his dagger and Val'anthis skewering the man with a borrowed rapier. He dies trying to evade both, flipping over the banister onto a table below. Umslopagaas and bollo rise. The assassin, seeing his comrade fall and feeling the pressure of the crowd beginning to form behind him becomes desperate. He swings wildly and missed Umslopagaas. The wildman and his companion deal blows that stagger the man but do not kill him. Umslopagaas' hears the crunch of bone with his strike and Bollo tears away flesh and cloth with his teeth. The lonely miner advance and surround the lone assassin. He twirls with his blade in his hand, blood coursing down his arm. In his eyes, Umslopagaas sees only defiance. The assassin will not quiet. He will fight to take any with him. Death is yet satisfied.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- [color=#0000BF:1xvjhqn2]Xerxes: ac:19 af:18 at:14 hp:11 dm: 00 Val'anthis: ac:17 af:14 at:13 hp:13 dm: 00 Zinnaella: ac:16 af:12 at:14 AC no armor, full defense:23) hp:12 dm:00[/color:1xvjhqn2] [color=#BF0040:1xvjhqn2](Drunk) [/color:1xvjhqn2] [color=#0000BF:1xvjhqn2]Evelyn Good ac:14 af:14 at:10 AC no armor (10) hp:10 dm:05 HIT for 1, [/color:1xvjhqn2][color=#BF0000:1xvjhqn2]Poison 4[/color:1xvjhqn2] [color=#000080:1xvjhqn2] Mitra: ac:12 af:10 at:12 hp:16 dm:00 Tathza Sabran: ac:12 af:10 at:12 hp:09 dm:00 Postavi?ka: ac:10 af:09 at:10 (10) hp:16 (16) ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Umslopogaas: ac:16 af:14 at:12 hp: 16 Bollo Wolf: ac:14 af:12 at:14 hp:20 dm:00 Blessed: Val'anthis, Tathza, Umslopagaas, Bollo AC+2 from dagger : Zinnaella (Listed above) [/color:1xvjhqn2] ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ((Combat done. Your go. Please inform me if I forgot something. Luck to the living.))

Postavi?ka carries on going as fast as he can to the rather hostile sounding Tapper room. Oh he thinks I fogot to take the necklace. He makes a mental note to always wear it from now on, even when in bed. He's had a bit of sleep but still feels somewhat drunk.

Tathza only see's one assassin left. He was already weak from the druids attacks along with his wolf. "No need to waste a spell" he thinks to himself. He makes his way behind the assassin to cut off any escape and help with an all angle attack. "It is a shame you will not live to regret your foolish choice" To Hit [dice:15ckn5gp]1d20+1+1+2[/dice:15ckn5gp] If I Hit [dice:15ckn5gp]1d4[/dice:15ckn5gp] (I really wish I could switch dice or something because I am starting to go pass unlucky up to freakish )

With a surge, the Lonely Miner patrons and the half-orc bouncer nearly surround the last assassin. The half-orc bouncer shoving a table out of the way, a guttural rage issuing from his lips. In one moment, he seemed a calm reader intent on his studies and in the next, when attackers threaten the Lonely Miner, his let slip his instinct and become fearsome.

umslopogaas continues the assult now with added flank bonus rolling my first attack [dice:37ijl2hs] 20+2+1+2 [/dice:37ijl2hs] damage if i hit [dice:37ijl2hs] 6+2 [/dice:37ijl2hs] 2nd attack [dice:37ijl2hs] 20+2+1+2 [/dice:37ijl2hs] damage if i hit [dice:37ijl2hs] 6+2 [/dice:37ijl2hs]

bollo attacks again bollos attack[dice:1r3mq2ep] 20+3 [/dice:1r3mq2ep] damage [dice:1r3mq2ep] 6+1 [/dice:1r3mq2ep] making a fre trip attempt strengh check [dice:1r3mq2ep] 20+13+1 [/dice:1r3mq2ep]

Zinnaella returns her dagger to it's sheath and looks at the other two women for a moment before turning her attention back to the now dead would-be assassins. "Uh, are you two going to get something on?" Zinnaella seems to only then notice her own outfit, "As should I." Zinnaella collects the blanket she was under and wraps it around her and then moves in to check the bodies of the attackers in the sleeping room, wondering who they are and hoping she doesn't find a couple items. ((Search check))[dice:qk6x38t7]1d20+7-2[/dice:qk6x38t7]

Feeling that their last assassin doesn't stand a chance, Val decides to go look after the other part of the company. [i:3ue60fkt]I hope that Evel... that they are all ok.[/i:3ue60fkt] He rushes through the main room without taking care of his own safety and pushing the others by side. ((Running x4, if assassin hasn't been killed, he will take an AoO)) "Let me through ! It's urgent !" he yells at them

The last one of the rogues falls to the floor clutching his head as blood dribbles out of pretty much every where. Mitra sighed it was over. There was a thud as Evelyn's morning star hits the floor, her eye lids flutter slightly and her right arm dropes. "I... I think somethings wrong." as she fights to keep her footing. Mitra rushes over and clutches the woman body to body, she helps Evelyn back to the bed. "Oh gods no." she breaths as she looks at the merest of scratches on Evelyn's form. She purely thinks on instinct "X cover the door in case there are more of them, Zinnaella, go find the others and then all of you should find someone that can deal with curing poison!" As the others make themselves busy she helps Evelyn lay on the bed. Supporting her head with her body. Evelyn eyes flutter. She tries to speak to tell Mitra something but the woman cuts her off "Save your words for when you are better." She kisses her forehead. "I know you don't like to use your divine abilities on yourself but this time honey, please." Evelyn focuses her mind even through she is incredible pain she feels the power of her good flow through her hand, and then she feels the warm power of her god flow through the cut and into her body, it wont cure the poison but it would help strengthen her body against it. Cure Light Wounds [dice:36shinwq] 1d8+3 [/dice:36shinwq] It takes a lot of energy to do even that simple cantrip, and Evelyn lets out a groan as the pain returns even if it is only slightly this time. Mitra strokes her hair, and whispers to her. The woman's breathing begins to ease and her eyes now closed seem to look more at peace. Fort save for the Second Round of Poison in a minutes time. (Done because I don't see anyone getting a Cure Poison to Evelyn in ten rounds time... twisty corridors and all). [dice:36shinwq] 1d20+4 [/dice:36shinwq] ((Yeah my bad I posted and then noticed that Xam was back a few minutes later.))

As the healing energy coarses through her body, she feels strength return but it is does not diminish the feeling of dizziness from the poison. As Mitra whispers her words into Eve's ear, the raw emotions of the night and the feeling of helplessness from the poison, causes a single tear to fall down her cheek, from her closed eyes. Not looking at her, she smiles and gently squeezes Mitra's hand before allowing herself to rest her head on the soft pillow, her face now at peace. [i know ive tech already had a go - but just wanted to add a response to Mitra]

X continues to guard the door, blocking it with his shield and watching the hall. "Mitra, you should try tending to her poison, I've seen it done before, keep the wound down as far below her heart as you can get it and then start cleaning it and remove any tight clothing from the area because it might start swelling quite a bit and then start wrapping it tight starting from closest to her heart out" ((If Mitra makes a heal check then Evelyn can choose to use her Fort save or Mitra's heal check for her save)) ((If Evelyn has a good heal check then Mitra should just make an aid another roll to give Evelyn a bonus on treating herself,this can only be done if you meet the DC which is the DC of the poison))

The surrounded assassin makes no sound, crouches bending his knees, and strikes out at Umslopagaas with his dagger. Harmlessly, the blade rebounds off of the wild man's staff. Umslopagaas swings mightly, but the assassin is too nimble. Both strikes sail over the assassin's head. But as he ducks, Bollo rushes in during the distraction and bowls the man over. Before the assassin can get his arms underneath him, Bollo's teeth grabs him by the neck, sinking deep as the man arms come around the wolf's body in a last embrace. With a swift shake, Bollo crushes the man's windpipe and all that is left is to watch him die. A grimace spreads across his face, resolute and unchanging. Even in death, this one refuses to give until the very end. Val'anthis runs past Postavicka up the stairs. Clambering as he goes, his breath coming quicker. Silence greets him when he expects the sounds of combat. Either his party, some of the friends, are dead, or the assassins failed. Evelyn feels somewhat better after her prayer of cure. Weakened still, she knows she's beat the poison. She can feel it loosen its grip and fade. This day would not be her Day of Transition. Mitra supports Evelyn. She can see it too. Evelyn's recovery. Zinnaella searches the assassins, careful to avoid contact with their blades. She finds little of interest. In fact, they carry nothing but their weapons and the clothes upon their skin. These men were not simple thieves. Turning one over something catches her eye. A tattoo deftly placed on the upper inside curve of the right ear. Small and hidden, most would mistake it for a mole or freckle, but close inspection reveals it is not a natural skin feature. Going back to the other bodies, she finds the same tattoo on the hidden underside of the upper ear. Three nested circles, slightly skewed. No coincidence. Xerxis guards the door. From below, he hears fast footsteps ascending the stairs. Tattoo: [attachment=0:2fkg3u9s]tattooear.jpg[/attachment:2fkg3u9s] ((Will post new topic))

The half-orc bouncer stomps on the fallen body of the assassin. He bellows at the advancing Lonely Miner's patrons, wide hands in fists of rage, sharp long yellow teeth barred. They, as would be prudent, take a step back. Those of the party present will realize that, although like all taverns the Lonely Miner has its share of arguments, few get out of control and this now hulking half-orc is simple reason. The assassin's arm breaks under the half-orcs foot, the snapping of it nearly hidden under the bouncer's growl. Miro positions himself between the bouncer and the crowd. It's hard to tell whether to protect them or not. Whether the threat now is the half-orc out of control or something else. "Ilian," Miro says in middle tones, flat and even without expression. "Your work is done." Ilian greets Miro with a snarl at first, spittle listing over his bottom lip. And then without warning, his hands move, palms up. Ilian's shoulders slump in seeming fatigue, but it is unlikely he is truly tired. "Done," Ilian says with a great sigh looking down at the fallen assassin and gingerly taking his foot off the body. "Done." Ilian looks to Miro and Tathza for direction. Val'anthis bounds up the steps.

X lets Val by when he gets there and then closes and locks the door, if there is no lock then he simply barricades it with a chair, if there are no chairs then he just closes the door. then he proceeds to don his studded leather armor in silence (takes a few minutes). [i:1n6htjxt]we should have been more prepared, freakin' birthday party, I should have known better[/i:1n6htjxt]. X listens intently while donning his armor to any conversation in the room, intent to keep an eye on Evelyn's health.

Mitra strokes Evelyn's head and watches as Evelyn's strength even in short supply over comes the poison, and some pallar returns to her cheeks. "Good Eve'y. Just take your time." She goes over to the bowl of water and wets some cloth then bring it over and dampens Eve'y brow. She then sits on the edge of her bed and strokes her hair and cleans the sweat off her face. "It's okay Xerses she seems to be getting better maybe there's more to those divine powers than meets the eye."

Postavi?ka moves to one side as Val charges at him down the corridor. Postavi?ka raises an eyebrow at this but continues to the tapper room where he see's what he assumes was a fatal fight in the pub that has been resolved. Miro and the half orc seem to have control of the area so Postavi?ka decides as he's only half dressed he will just head back to bed. When will people learn not to mess in this place, silly fellow probably got drunk he thinks, probably got in a fight now he's dead.

Tathza eyes the bouncer then waves his hand in dismissal. Barbarians were not uncommon among his kind and the best way to calm them was to treat them normally. Any stiff or nervous movement could be seen as a threat or hostile intent. Tathza wipes his dagger clean on the dead assassin and puts it away. "The assassins are dead you should rest. I thank you for your help and a job well done." Tathza takes his time looking over the bodies. He takes note of everything. Their clothes, weapons, and even the shape and form of their muscles over their body. He even searches them to make sure he does not miss anything. (Take the 20) Knowledge (local) [dice:1hn7jpzq]1d20+6[/dice:1hn7jpzq] Knowledge (religion) if he knows about the tattoo [dice:1hn7jpzq]1d20+5[/dice:1hn7jpzq] Knowledge (history) [dice:1hn7jpzq]1d20+5[/dice:1hn7jpzq]

((Tathza do you roll search or take the minutes for 20?))

Zinnaella looks up as Val enters the room, her blanket wrapped around her in make shift clothing. "We're ok now Val, just some unwanted visitors. Speaking of which," Zinnaella bends the right ear of the would-be assassin to better expose the tattoo to everyone else. "Anyone ever see, or hear of, this mark before?" Zinnaella takes care and gathers the daggers as well, carefully wrapping them and placing them off to the side. She approaches Evelyn and Mitra with a couple more blankets, wrapping one over Mitra's shoulders and the other on top of Evelyn. "Are you going to be ok?" she asks to Evelyn, but also looks to Mitra - figuring either one could answer just as easily.

When Zinnaella looks at mitra she can see the tears that have run down her face, and sit on her red eyes. She nods "I think she is going to be okay." she mumbles with a shaky lip. "Thank you for the blanket."

In the Tavern's main room, Tathza searches over the bodies of the assassins. He separately confirms Zinnaella's findings without knowing yet, noting the tattoo behind each of their right ears. Miro helps him, quickly assisting or doing his own search with Tathza and each body, cutting away their clothes when Tathza finds the tattoo to expose nearly every inch of skin. They reveal their faces and find nothing notable, nor do any of the townies watching confirm an identity. "Quickly," he says to Tathza, "if there is anything else to do, do it quick. The guard has been summoned and the tediousness of explanation is soon on us. Perhaps you've more time upstairs. I can stall for a few moments if there are other ways to extract information from cold flesh, but not long."

"Sorry but such magic is beyond my power at the moment and it seems my knowledge is not enough. Other then this tattoo I cant find anything of note and I do not know the symbol etheir" Tathza cant seem to place the tattoo. He could not cast the spells that would allow him to speak with the dead or find out any information. Their was nothing Tathza could do. "Miro its your place I will go along with what you choose"

umslopogaas grabs bollo and calms him down ruffling his fur muttiring " we goona need to clean your teeth"

Val enters the room, looking panicked. "Has anyone been hit by these assassins, I believe the used poisoned wea.." Before he can finish his sentance, he notices Evelyn lying down, looking weak. [i:i7rbkxeq]Dammit ![/i:i7rbkxeq] He relaxes as the others explain him that her body is resisting the poison. "I'm sorry", he explains, "I saw them coming your way, but we got attacked too, I came as fast as I could." Going to Evelyn, he touches her belly with his hands and speak gentle words in elven "[i:i7rbkxeq]Sois forte, n'habondonne pas[/i:i7rbkxeq]" ((casts lesser vigor, +1hp/round during 12 rounds)) "Is there anyone else hurt ? I can heal some more if it's needed."

"Thanks Val, but I believe they were fairly inept as assassins and only Evelyn was hit at all. Now, if there is nothing else - my head is killing me and I need to get back to sleep." Zinnaella returns to her bed, and if no one has anything else she lies back down to sleep - the three new daggers carefully wrapped and placed under her bed.

As Val walks toward Evelyn and Mitra, Mitra red eyed with tears, steps in to Val's path, hands on hip, a defiant look in her eyes, a physical barrier between him and Evelyn. "Eve'y is resting and should not be disturbed." she says icely, a tinge of anger in her voice. "She has beaten the poison and does not need 'your' help." Mitra turns her back to Val and ignores him as if he wasn't there and instead sits down beside Evelyn, "Its ok Eve'y," she whispers to her, "I'll keep all the bad men away," stroking her forehead. Evelyn opens her eyes to their words, not wanting an argument to erupt says softly to him, "Im OK Val, thank you for your concern. Mitra is right I should rest. Unless Im needed elsewhere, I'd very much like to rest till morning." There is warmness in her eyes as she talks and she smiles at him as if trying to say more than just her words. (on a positive note you've still got your spell)

Not only was the little pest getting more and more annoyant, now even Eve was declining his help. "Fine, don't expect my help next time..." As he leaves the rooms, he adds "I should have remained with the ones who were ready to help and be helped..." He finds Tathza in the main room and hands over his rapier. "Thanks alot, you have proven a trustwordy companion tonight. I knew we shouldn't judge you by your ancestors." "So what has anyone an idea why someone wants to see us dead ?"

A look of pain flashes across Evelyn's eyes as Val says his words, causing more pain than a twisted dagger. She looks to Mitra, a look of triumph in her eyes and watches Val leave the room angry. She lets out a sigh and rests back on the bed, wishing the day would end sooner.

No sooner as she closes her eyes, her eyes snap open again, a purposeful look in them. She gets up and throws her adventuring dress over her nightgown much to Mitra's protests. "We have dead people in this room and likely downstairs and I am a priestess of Vecher. I have a duty to perform." she says to Mitra. "It is not my place to judge their souls but a higher power's," she adds as she fumbles for her money pouch. She holds her head as the dizziness returns, then shrugs it off and Mitra's arm answering her concerns by saying, "Im ok, just a little light headed, I cant turn away the responsibilities of my faith. I will rest later," she says softly. Evelyn goes to each dead assassin and performs the crossover ritual for each. She then goes downstairs. supporting her weight on the railing as the steps cause her to feel dizzy again. Though Mitra tries to help she once again, kindly shrugs off her aid. Walking into the taproom, her symbol of Vecher necklace, plain to see, without saying a word, she walks to the dead bodies of the assassins and begins the crossover ritual there also. (EDIT: Eve goes downstairs after Xerxes)

turning to those in the room X says "it's not practical to go, so we stay even though they know where we are, let's get everyone inside and then we'll get some sleep, I'll go get Tathza and Umslo" X heads downstairs behind Val and follows him up to Tathza and Umslo.

umslopogaas stands with tathza and val discussing the assassin "are you sure it was us that thease men were arfter, val'anthis maybe some one else was the target and we got in their way, it is best not to rule anything out"

Tathza see's the elf return with a bad look and dismisses it. It was not his concern and he did not care what had driven the elf so quickly and dismissed him in the same. Tathza had a good guess but again threw the thought away. He took back his weapon and in a smooth movement put it back in its place on his person and hid it from sight. "My thanks and it is good that you put it to use so well" Tathza tried not to let his temper get the best of him when the wild human spoke and instead just shook his head for a moment. "Look at where we are, we are all in the back of the tavern where their are no stairs to the rooms above and more so we are in the left corner of the tavern. Had the assassins meant to attack someone on this floor they would have entered from the back which is near us and away from most of the patrons. Yet they entered from front and near the stairs which is to suggest that they were intending to do harm to someone above us and so had no reason to stay down here. Unless they did not expect their targets to be at the base level and so were force to split their group, which they indeed did, so one could assume that their targets were both above and on the base level. Nearly everyone here is a local and not traveling in a group. Not to mention from Val's reaction that they attacked the other half of our group which is in the biggest and last room in this inn. Simply put we were the people most out of the way from these assassins and the fact that they attacked us means most likely we were the targets. If anyone has anything to add feel free to do so as much of what I said is mearly my own thoughts on the matter."

Miro nods his head at Tathza reasoning. The assassins did not appear to target any others and there were plenty. Furthermore, the fact that a larger number went to the rooms and directly to their room simply was too much of a coincidence. The town guard eventually arrives. Initially, only two enter the tavern, but once the dead are seen and the chaos of others attempting to inform the guards of what appeared to happen, they quickly realized the matter was well above their rank. It takes a few moment to send for the Captain and more men. In the between time, the two guards attempt to quiet the tavern and create a semblace of order. This type of event, it would seem, is not very common in Prejete. Order or the appearance of is. Captain Alesandr arrives shortly with eight other men. The men take up positions at the entrance and doors to the rooms and kitchen. The Captain quietly surveys the scene as he walks up to Miro, Val'anthis, Tathza, and the wild man Umslopagaas. He glances in Miro's direction and nods in greeting. He waits until Evelyn finishes her rites, unwilling to disturb the priest and the tavern mimics his quiet. "Captain," Miro says Evelyn is done. "Seems your birthday was a bit rowdy," Captain Alesandr says and shrugs. "How many do I need to keep." "Most were bystanders," Miro says. "Aye," Alesandr responds and turns to the guards. "File them out. A list of names and quarters. The party is over." The Captain is calm. By the mood in the tavern and Miro's position among the party, Alesandr understands that there is no hostile intent left in the room. One side lost, sure enough, but by the air of the people on benchs it would seem that no-one has an issue with those that did the killing. The guards herd the majority of the guests out the front tavern door. One writes information down as they leav. Captain Alesdandr has a few words with the guests that attempted to help the party and then lets them also leave. He directs the bodies to lay as the fell for the moment. "The others," the Captain says and has Miro lead him with the party to the boarding room. He is accompanied by only one other guardsmen to the room while the others secure the tavern. Again he surveys the room. Death does not bother him. Nor does carnage. His eyes look at details. He can tell the bodies did not fall as they lay and that they were searched. One died without obvious wounds displayed on his clothes. "I imagine the story should come next. But, I do have a question first. Then you can inform me of events. I see only one weapon on the floor," Captain Alesandr says pointing to an assassins' rapier. "The others?"

Zinnaella looks up as the captain of the guard and the others enter the sleeping room, being woken up from her few more minutes of sleep. She rubs her head and squints as they enter. [i:31zqpw2i]That's it, no more drinking. This is just insane.[/i:31zqpw2i] At the Captains question about weapons, Zinnaella pulls the wrapped bundle from under her bed and holds it out to the captain. "Here, these were theirs also. I believe they were poisoned so I wanted to make sure no one accidentally pricked themselves."

Captain Alesandr steps up to Zinnaella and peers at the dagger. They are common enough, but he doesn't touch them. "You can wrap them back up," he says, but does not move to take them from Zinnaella. He looks around at the party. "Fill in the details please. All, some, or one as is suitable. And an attempt at cohesion would be appreciated. I dislike paperwork and I'm sure this will take more than necessary." The party may be taken aback by the Captain's simple and plain demeanor. He, unlike most of his guards, and for that matter probably a large part of the populace of Prejete, has been around. Although not overtly friendly with Miro, he treats the dwarf with respect and the matter as business that requires an appropriate level of attention. The fact that there are dead, it would seem, are obviously complicating points, but nothing to loose one's head over.

Zinnaella sets the wrapped bundle on her bed and takes a seat there as well, waiting until everyone leaves so she can go back to sleep, hopefully for more than half an hour this time. "I can't say about what happened in the main room, but in this room it was quite simple. We were resting and these men snuck into the room. When they were noticed, they attacked instead of fleeing. So, we defended ourselves as would any sane person. Even after a couple fell, the other would not run away so there was no option to subdue - they meant us death and would only be stopped by their own death. Anything else?"

Tathza watch's it all with seeming disinterest but keeps himself alert. He did not care much for Zin's explaination seeing as she went back to sleep and could have left them in the care of someone else. To Tathza and he was sure to the captain it looked like she had been trying to hide some loot for herself. This was not the time or place for such things but the captain had let it go and so would Tathza. The captain kept calm about the whole affair but to Tathza it seemed a little too calm for a human. Tathza got the feeling that the captain knew more then he let on or simply did not care that assassins attempted to kill them and Tathza did not think it was the latter as he seemed the duty bound type. Tathza did not like any of it and would welcome leaving this place behind save for Miro and his ilk.

X waits in the hall near the door to the room, listening in on the conversation. [i:3f1px2wz]too close in there with all the people[/i:3f1px2wz] he eyes the captain and ponders the man's attitude, [i:3f1px2wz]is he going through the motions and already knows the whole story or is he always like this?[/i:3f1px2wz] Sense Motive [dice:3f1px2wz]1d20[/dice:3f1px2wz]

"And those in main hall," Alesandr asks. "What of they? Did they enter together? Three here yet only two there. Who was in this room when the fighting began?" Captain Alesandr asks a number of questions of those in the room and those left in the hall to tell their memory of events. He looks at each group, either those that fought in the room or the hall, and waits for one or more to tell him the facts along with asking if any other information was found on the bodies by those who searched them after they had died. Of those left in the room, he asks if any are runners, those trying to escape pursuing enemies. ((Should you lie or stretch the truth please roll an appropriate skill. Others in the party may also roll to sense motive of their own party members and on the Captain if wanted.)) Xerxis: The Captain is going through the motions, but he is thorough and it seems he takes his duty honorably. Although, there is something else he knows and he is somewhat conflicted.

Sense Motive for the captain [dice:1sqn3bww]1d20[/dice:1sqn3bww] Sense motive of the group [dice:1sqn3bww]1d20[/dice:1sqn3bww] (I am going to murder those dice)

Tathza: To you the Captain of the guard simply seems thorough and his actions expected. I'll deliberate on the second roll, although you rolled a single number for the whole group as opposed to waiting for responses from party members and rolling separately, which is fine. I simply have to wait for responses to figure what, if anything, you determine. My bet is not much as the dice continue there less than 10 trend.

[quote="GeneT":2cuj9v6q]"And those in main hall," Alesandr asks. "What of they? Did they enter together? Three here yet only two there. Who was in this room when the fighting began?" Captain Alesandr asks a number of questions of those in the room and those left in the hall to tell their memory of events. He looks at each group, either those that fought in the room or the hall, and waits for one or more to tell him the facts along with asking if any other information was found on the bodies by those who searched them after they had died. Of those left in the room, he asks if any are runners, those trying to escape pursuing enemies. ((Should you lie or stretch the truth please roll an appropriate skill. Others in the party may also roll to sense motive of their own party members and on the Captain if wanted.))[/quote:2cuj9v6q] ((No rolls needed from Zinnaella.)) Zinnaella points to herself, Mitra, Evelyn and Xerxes. "We were in here. As I said earlier, one had a chance to run away but never did - they seemed to be intent on trying to kill us. As far as the main hall, you'd have to ask those there." Zinnaella looks to Tathza pointedly, expectin him to talk as usual. As the Captain goes through the process, Zinnaella takes a moment to study the Captain, both his questions and reactions to the responses. ((Sense Motive))[dice:2cuj9v6q]1d20+5-2[/dice:2cuj9v6q] ((Nope - not so much...))

Tathza hears the explaination and reads Zin's look. May as well get his part over with. "I was just adding my own minor tricks to the party when Val spotted the assassins. Their were two of them from what I saw and they moved directly towards us with little stealth. In fact the one that choose me as his target even went thru the trouble of moving over the railing which gave me an advantage of higher ground and better strike openings. I would say that they were driven to kill us and did not regard their own life. That in turn means they are loyal or feared retreat more then death. Anyways I was assisted by Val and some of the tavern folk in dispatching him. Then I along with the druid, Val, and the tavern folk surrounded the remaining assassin. He made no moves to escape and kept fighting with his dying breath. After the assassins were dealt with Val went to check on the others and I along with the druid remained to await Miro and the guards." Tathza had spoken the truth for the most part. He had no intention of telling them any of his personal thoughts on the matter. But he would speak to Miro when he had the chance for Tathza knew that these assassins could not have entered the city without anyones knowing. More so with the guard in its high state of alertness due to the recent troubles.

Finishing her crossover rites, she stands and nods her thanks to Miro and the newly arrived captain. Evelyn says little, preferring to watch the events unfold as the captain, Miro and the party discuss the night's events. She follows the group, as does Mitra and listens to what is being said. When the Captain asks her for her version she says softly, "I have nothing more to add to tonight's events. Zinnaella has explained it all as I would tell it. These men" she glances to the dead bodies, "made their choice and now cross the great river with Vecher till they reach their afterlife or own hell." When Mitra is asked she responds with a similar response, not wanting to give anything away regarding her powers. Evelyn's sense motive on the Captain; [dice:1ef7s6af]20+3[/dice:1ef7s6af] Mitra's sense motive on the Captain; [dice:1ef7s6af]20+3[/dice:1ef7s6af]

Hearing a banging on the door Postavi?ka opens it and is confronted by a guard who explains that he is to go outside and give a statement. Postavi?ka Quickly gets dressed and goes outside where he tells the captain that the fight woke him up, but by the time he got to the Tapper room the fight had finished so he went back to bed. He stands about desperately wanting to get back to bed, blimey he thinks, tonight of all nights. Then he moves over to Val and asks quietly "Are you ok? I saw you rush past me in a hell of a hurry."

There isn't much to add. "They are right, I saw five. Only two of them attacked us in the main room, that's why I wanted to see the rest of the group." Val looks at Evelyn.

Evelyn stares back at him but says nothing.

For most, Captain Alesandr seems as one would espect, or at least hope, a captain of the guard to act. He calmly assesses the situation. Receives information quietly and listens completely. Weighs what others say against previous words and then considers whether any need clarification. To these in the party, Captain Alesandr is simply carrying out business and it seems at some point halfway through the exposition of events that he has already decided there is nothing further to do with those attacked. They were singled out. They defended themselves as best they could. And, their attackers paid the price. The guests of Miro's birthday party, as they left, cooraborated their statements. Although, Evelyn and Xerxis catch something else. Subtle, but present. Some point after he inspects the bodies in the room, the Captain already knows the truth of the party's remarks. The Captain is simply hearing them out as they should expect. Collecting data as his men would anticipate. Corralling the members of the party for a brief interrogation as is usual. To Evelyn and Xerxis, the Captain knows within moments of entering the room that the party is innocent of any foul play. Xerxis, a man who handles a blade, probably sees it closer. The Captain is conflicted and it makes him slightly anxious. His off hand remains on the scabard of his long sword and his right hand's thumb hooked in his belt in attempt to hold it from straying. "Halsten," the Captain says. "Bring Kurst and Gunther up and drag these down with the rest. Send Finn to get a wagon and load'em up." "Aye, sir."

Realizing the captain is anxious and uncomfortable with the situation, Evelyn decides to try and let the others know of his position by way of asking some direct questions. "This is a terrible waste of life," Evelyn remarks softly, her eyes locking onto the captain's, "Captain Alesandr, have you seen these men before? .....Do you have any idea who might have been behind this attack on us?" She doesn't expect any information from him, but hopes the directness of her questions will cause his eyes to shift if he tells a lie, in the hope that the others might have a chance to spot it.

umslopogaas standing of to the side will whisper to tathza "who is this 'captin' whos is asking questions"

Tathza nearly rolled his eyes. Was basic knowledge and sense in short supply or were most humans so foolish. Tathza answers the question regardless. "The captain is one of the men in charge of the cities defenses and guards. He is a leader of shorts and commands some of the men that protect this city. He is asking questions to find out what happened. If we were at fualt and killed these men for no good reason for example then it would be his duty to place us under arrest. Please direct your questions to those best suited to answer as I have not lived most of my life on the surface and so I would not always be the best to ask in some matters." Tathza knew most of the surface worlds ways and his knowledge was not limited to the underdark in any way. But he would be damned if he would have every little question directed his way. Tathza may deal the laws of the surface world but he would never be bound to them.

" strange !! in my tribe it is the duty of all to protect the the village! how does he get to be charge? do the elders of this tribe appoint him "

Captain Alesandr defers Evelyn's question. Halsten and the others trump up the stairs and then drag the bodies of the assassins back down head first. As they do, the assassins boots bang on the steps in an irregular staccato, like children playing drums. The Captain waits for the last guard to start his trek down and then turns back to Evelyn. "Priestess," Alesandr says, "the gate is open now for a few hours certain times of the day. I see all who enter Prejete." The Captain keeps his eyes steady and his gaze even. "Prejete does not harbor those who hire men to kill others. We have our villains and occassional deaths, but these are limited affairs. Contained and Never involving travelers. Travelers are harried by their own. It is I who should be asking whether any of you have an idea why these men should be so keen to test their edge that they'd risk life and loose. But I doubt straight answers would be found." Captain Alesandr holds Evelyn's eyes for a moment, sighs, and turns to Miro. "We'll take the bodies out. None of these men are from Prejete. I'll likely have to give a report by early morning," he says, informing Miro when he could expect a summons from the Mayor. As he turns to head down the stairs, he adds something else and, although spoken to Miro, it's plainly meant for the party. "Plenty of time for any that have business out of town to quietly leave before they find themselves held."

"I see Captain," Evelyn replies softly to his words, "I thank you for your candor and wish you good fortune in finding those responsible for this." She bows to him as he leaves and once he is gone turns to those stood nearby. "Well it seems our next step has been laid out for us," she says softly, "so I for one wish for some rest, even if just a couple of hours, if we intend to leave pre-dawn. Unless there is anything else we need to discuss, I bid you a goodnight." She turns to Miro saying, "Im sorry Miro for the misfortune of events that has perhaps ended your party on a sour note. But regardless, I hope you enjoyed it for the most part and I thank you again for your most generous gift, I hope we can become firm friends." She kisses him on the cheek as a friend would in farewell. Mitra lets out a long yawn, saying, "Well Eve'y let's go." Evelyn nods her head and allows Mitra to make her way back to her bed and as she does Evelyn steals the moment to whisper something to Val. "Did you really mean what you said eariler?" she asks him softly, looking into his eyes, "Do you still mean it now?"

Postavi?ka still feeling drunk, very tired and a little annoyed at all this disruption to his sleep heads back to bed as soon as the captain allows them to re-enter the lonely miner.

"Of course not ! I was just... worried." "Well then, let's go to sleep. I think we all deserved it."

Evelyn smiles, a look of relief washes over her face. "Yes let's go to bed now," she replies, "....I mean to different beds...I don't mean...oh you know what I mean!," she stumbles, blushing. She collects herself and adds, "I shall sleep better now, Goodnight Val." Smiling once more,she turns to catch up with Mitra, unaware Mitra watches, her eyes narrowing with disgust.

Tathza heard the captains words and held his own. No one knew of them save those that had summoned them and guided them. So simply put someone that knew about the group and its purpose sent the assassins. The one that had hired them would not do such a thing as for this towns mayor and his lackeys they had no reason not to send assassins their way more so with their recent ations. Tathza had only been here for a short time but he could see that this towns mayor was not to be trusted. This mayor placed himself before his people and seemed to hold on to power far to much. The captain had said it with a sweet tongue but the message was clear "Get out and soon or you would regret it". Tathza would study his spellbook and rest then do as the others wished. He may even get a chance to speak to Miro but he did not like the state of this place. Sometimes Tathza missed the underdark for at least there you did not have to put up with all these illusions. Drow did not hide what they were and netheir did almost any underdark race. But these humans would wish to make you think them goodly folk and base their actions on more evil races yet insist on their good nature. It was all for nothing and a grand tiring thing to watch. "I will rest, call me if I am needed" Let them all be damned for they seem to deserve it.

Miro watches Captain Alesandr with a somewhat confused, or at least questioning, look on his face. The Capatain does not respond to Miro either. The dwarf scratches his beard as the Captain leaves the room and can be heard walking down the stairs. "There are things not right about tonight," he says to the group. "I've not seen Alesandr so closed as just now. But he is not a man to let dishonesty or untruth to be allowed to settle. If he knew who sent these men, he would have acted quickly. Something has him troubled. And anything that would trouble that man is worrisome." Miro looks around at the stains and settled blood on the floorboards. "I'll be up to clean up and lay a few rugs about. Not that it will do much to improve your last night. The gates open just before sunrise for the morning market and close a little before noon. The Mayor takes no business before ten. And even if rumors stir him, Alesandr will stall until then. That's why he remarked on a time for his summons." Miro sighs and his eyes are concerned. "You've time enough in the morning to get ready and probably a bit to move through the market for anything you need for travels. I'll be up early for a proper breakfast and any help you may need to get provisions. And then see you to the gate well before ten. Aye?" ((I'm opening a new section, but feel free to continue here and, if wanted, RP with Miro/selves.))

"we best get our rest then, this door's closed till morning so go use the pot or whatever else you need and bunk up" X waits for everyone to get settled and decide if they're staying in the room or not, he doesn't expect anyone to not sleep in the room with the exception perhaps of Umslo. Once everyone who's going to be in is in he drags a bunk infront of the door blocking it off. if there are any windows he piles some copper pieces on the sill so that if it's opened it will provide a makeshift alarm and then he hunkers down on the bunk at the door and goes to sleep with his studded leather on.

All about Evelyn is darkness. A tiny noise sounds behind her and she spins around to see the soft glow of a doorway far away. She walks to the doorway to see a slim figure standing there, her arms open as if in greeting. Time does not tally with her movement and she suddenly finds herself standing infront of a girl with long lifeless black hair mostly covering her face. Her dress is featureless and black. A soft glow emanates from behind her, shrouding her facial features in shadow. The girl embraces her, her pale white arms wrapping around her in a gentle grip filled with a hidden strength. The girl kisses her on the cheek, her lips the cold touch of death. “Come,” the girl playfully says and leads her by the hand into a dark room. The girl leaves her for a moment and returns, pressing something in to her hand. It is a skull, not human, but its features are sharper...elven? As Evelyn studies the skull, the girl moves to an orb within the room and a gentle glow emanates, showing the room for the first time. Evelyn turns to see several statues standing in a triangular marching order, the leader at the front creating the point. The statues seem lifelike...too lifelike as realisation dawns on her, as she sees the lifeless gaze of Val’anthis the elf, a guard that had been rude to Evelyn many moons ago and even the friendly gnome who they had recently met. The leader of the group she does not at first recognise for he is headless, yet his clothing seems familiar and she notes the darkness of his skin.... She opens her mouth to scream but no sound emits. The girl walks up to her and strokes her body, “don’t worry Eve I did this for you.....for you” Evelyn tries to say something but no words come out, she feels her arm move against her will and she does not have the strength to resist. Her arm swings forward, releasing the half-drow skull, it bounces on the stone floor and rolls toward the lifeless corpses...... Evelyn's eyes snap open. She lies in her bed, in their room and all is dark and quiet, dawn not far away. The bunk Xerxes's moved is still in place and the windows close. 'just a dream,' she muses to herself, yet she cannot shrug of the dream's effect or fall back to sleep, her mind whirring with thoughts, she instead listens to the soft sounds of her companions sleeping in the room. Afer a few minutes, in the darkness, she slips from her bed, sliding out of Mitra's arms, and takes out her velvet roll from her backpack under the bed. Looking to the bed against the door, and realises she cannot move it without waking her companions from their slumber. Instead she chooses a place on the floor facing the window and unrolls the velvet cloth, once again, laying out the bones in order. Her voice a barely audible whisper, she chants her prayers to her god, as the sun breaks the sky and gives thanks for seeing another day, alive.

The Lonely Miner wakes slowly. Much before dawn, Miro enters the kitchen and busily makes breakfast for the party. All the other residents are too drunk or tired to be about at this hour and stay in bed until mid-morning. Tankards lay about, strewn everywhere on tables, but Miro has cleaned off the largest for breakfast. The smell of bacon meanders through the tavern's main room and accents the rattling of skillets and pots coming from the Kitchen. Miro hums absently. A song low in the note register. A war march written in his bones from so much time on the fields of war when he was a much younger dwarf. If asked, he can not recall the song's name as the humming is an unconscious action like taking a breath of air.

umslopogass wakes to the smell of bacon (or more corectly wakes to bollo waking him cause bollo smelled bacon!) and slopes of down stairs to find a quite corner to off prayers to the spirits and renew his strengh with them

X rises with a grunt and pulls the bunk back from the door and, after some stretching, starts strapping on his equipment. after 10 minutes of prep he hauls his stuff downstairs to rustle up some breakfast. Finding Umslo he hunkers down at a table with him and discusses the local terrain and possible problems the group could have. "Any poisonous plants or anything around these parts?"

Pos gets dressed and heads to the Tapper room, he then goes to settle his bar bill last night and after that goes to sit with X and umslo. "You guys ready to head off today then?" "We will have to travel for 3 or 4 days, we could take horses some of the way but the last bit will have to be on foot as the old ways have become somewhat less passable over the years."

Tathza moves down stairs to get a bit of breakfast and speak with Miro. He still wanted to see if they had any scrolls or other things of use to be found. But from what he had dealt with he doubted it. Overpriced or questionable in nature were all that he seemed to get in this town at every corner. "Greetings Miro I would like to speak with you when you have time, my hunt for useable items will start again it seems. Thank you for the meal"

umslopogaas has breakfast with pos and x dscussing the land around here " the land round here is mostly grassland and forest, and with the curranty heat the biggest danger will be wild fires, but aprart from that snakes are the most commen poisoness crature around but they should leave well alone if you return the favour. but i will a better idea of the terain if you show me where we are going! do you have a map?

" I have no map, but I know the way and it's northeast for about 1 and a half days when we will pass the new mines then we continue onward for anouther 2 days to the old mines. I know the way."

"New mines and old mines? What is the story about that?" Tathza wondered.

"The new mines are not actually that new as the newest is 40 years old, but the old mines are really old, don't know how old but really old." "They are from before this town even formed. I've heard rumors about an anciant city now lost in the forest near those mines." "There was some mining in the old mines more recent but it was too dangerous. I hear rumors of evil creatures lurk there and attack men on sight. It's also difficult to transport the coal as there are no rivers so the new mines are preferable for that reason too."

In a low voice "The Hidden Riders have been seen near the old mines".

Zinnaella groans slightly and rolls over as members of the group rise and leave the room. She sits up and places her head in her hands, with her elbows resting on her knees. [i:gtwisdu3]This is not going to be a good day,[/i:gtwisdu3] she thinks. Once all the males have left, she gets dressed in her armor and packs all her items back up into her pack. It takes her a little longer than usual as she still seems to be taking things slow. The new daggers she places wrapped in her pack for now, figuring the group can find better places for them later on. She sets her weapons back in their normal places, including finding a hiding spot for her newest dagger. One dagger she places inside her armor on her back, between her shoulder blades, which is then also covered by her hair to further conceal it. Another she places in a sheath on her left hip, well within easy reach. And finally, she places a third one in a wrist sheath. She checks each of them, ensuring that they will not fall or slip unintentionally. She actually finds a calming comfort in the focus she spends on the little items, her head doesn't seem to pound as hard while she checks her items. Of course, she can only check so many times before the calm is gone and the headache finds it way back. She gives her head a rub and prepares to head down for some breakfast. She internally debates her next action - intent on leaving town as soon as possible, but also wanting answers. She finally decides that she will try to go see Mistress Valzen quickly, as long as the rest of the group isn't planning on leaving immediately. After eating a little bread for breakfast, since she feels that she couldn't keep anything else down, she lets Evelyn know that she will be back very soon and heads off to the marketplace. Once there, she wanders a little to keep the appearance of a peruser, but quickly locates Mistress Valzen again. Once the mistress is alone, Zinnaella approaches the stall. "I know it is short notice, but that dress you fitted me with tore and I need a replacement," she says - hinting that she needs to speak privately again. ((Edited to add moving to meet Mistress Valzen.))

Zinnaella mentions to her, she will be going out for a short time to which Evelyn replies, "Don't worry you have time. I think Mitra and myself may also pop out to buy some supplies for the journey. We will wait for your return." Evelyn already dressed from her predawn prayers, simply waits for Xerxes to pull back the bed and thanks him, before making her way down to the taproom. Mitra decides to hang around with Zinnaella, her legs playfully sliding back and forth on the floor while sitting on the edge of the bed, enjoying watching the rogue place her weapons and rub her forehead from her headache. Evelyn joins Posta, X, Tathza and Umslopogass for breakfast, listening to their conversation about the mines. "You say evil creatures" she asks postavicka, "What sort of creatures can we expect?"

"Creatures that would sit nicely in a nightmare, but i'm no expert and i've never seen them."

"Then let's hope we shall not see one on our travels," Evelyn replies softly, "Nightmares is all I seem to have these days," she mutters to herself dryly, "Id rather not have reason to enhance them further." "I'd like to chance by the market if I can quickly before we leave." Evelyn adds softly, "If we are to journey, with the least chance of being spotted by others. Should we therefore leave the wagon here if it is not ours (belonging to mayor?) or can we sell it for some horses?" "Or does a wagon provide a good cover that we are merely workmen travelling to the new mines and leave it there instead and perhaps proceed on foot." "What do you advise?" she asks the group.

Evelyn adds," Are we suitably equiped to travers in a mine should we need to explore it?" "Do we have enough rope, grapples and whatever else might be needed to explore them. Do we have sufficient light for those who cannot see in the dark." "I'm guessing we do," She says softly,",I just want to ask incase, such matters have yet to be dealt with." "If we need to get supplies, perhaps we can pool some of our money together to get what we need for the success of this mission." Evelyn reaches into her money pouch and pulls out 10 gold pieces and 3 coppers. "This is all I have left," she says softly, "but am willing to give it all to the group, if we need the money for supplies."

Pos raises an eyebrow and say's "That's generous." He looks around, "I'd put that back in the pouch before too many people see it. People around here are generally ok, but there are some bad apples who may think to rob you."

"OK," Evelyn replies, returning the coins back into their pouch and slipping it within the folds of her dress, "Thank you for your advise, sometimes I forget who might be paying attention to us."

"Though i suspect robbing a priestess of Vecher from her coin, wouldn't be a wise move either," She adds smiling, " I suspect it would do them no favours when they stand on the shore of the afterlife, waiting for Vecher to arrive, their stolen coin in their hand."

"I believe that, as I hear those that worship the gods can become powerful from using thier powers." "Please excuse me if I say I hadn't thought by the look of you that you would be a worshiper of Vecher." "Many people are scared of the thought of Vecher, but I think that we all will meet that God one day, so why be scared of a certainty. Obviously though you have a close connection." "Also please don't take this the wrong way but the young lady Mitra, I sense there is some troubles in her. Is there anything I should know as I am to be leading you all."

"Really?" Evelyn smiles a little mischievously, "Well then I obviously need to display this symbol more prominently in future," she says, as she slides the silver holy symbol on her neck close to her cleavage. "You are right not to be afraid of Vecher," She adds in a more serious tone, "Vecher is the god of transition so not just about Death, but also about other aspects that are marked by change, including our change in weather or seasons." "or the lack of it," she adds dryly. She leans in close to Postavicka and whispers, "You have nothing to fear from Mitra, [i:255i0i1z]unless you seek to anger her[/i:255i0i1z]. She is a sweet, loving, young woman. She may have her mood swings as we all do, but she is a really nice person once you get to know her."

Mistress Valzen smiles at Zinnaella. "A bit of rough dancing," she says with a twinkling smile. "My dresses do make one desirable. Fogs men's minds, not that they ever need such the dolts they are. Come, I'll have you lay it out and take a look. My threads in the tent. Hosef," she calls. "Tend the givings." Mistress Valzen leads Zinnaella to the tent, opens the flap, and guides her in. She gives Zinnaella a long look. "You're an interesting one, so young and pursued. The best come to it early, trouble that is. What do you need," she asks still standing and facing Zinnaella. By her positioning, she may trust the thief girl, but she is no fool. Eyes on, hands ready. Motto of any living grifter.

Miro sits heavily next to the party as they come and go, planning this and that before the morning gets on. He looks over the breakfast he's laid out on the table; fruits, cereals, a bit of eggs, bacon and meats pile in the middle. The food is plentiful and robust, fit for friends readying for the road and the leaner days ahead. Miro doesn't say much. He drinks his coffee in a bit of silence, smiling at the members of the party as they sit or pass by. He only nibbles at the food, preparing it for them instead. "Take what's left for the rest of the day. Some will keep." Standing he sighs. "No leaving until I can properly send you all off. I'll be in back readying the horses and the wagon if you plan on taking it. I'll farewell you there and be in the stables if any wish a quiet word with me before. I would think you've a couple hours before Alesandr can duck his duty anymore."

Tathza goes to speak with Miro. "Do you think I will have a better chance at find anything I seek today, if you have any suggestions they would be most welcome?" Tathza hoped he would have better luck today. This place seemed to be hard up for magic and his luck with the enemy would not hold out. He had avoided one battle but the second one he had been forced to fight closely. He could have been cut down with a well placed strike. Tathza's power would take time to grow but at the rate he was being attacked he may run out of time. From what he heard of these mines they both may deserve inspection and while he had little fear of death he was not one to walk into it etheir.

Miro glanced at Tathza while checking one of the horses front shoes, shouldering the animal in cooperation. The horse unwilling to completely give up tried to nibble Miro's ear with its large flat teeth. "No," Miro said flatly letting the forefoot go. "There not to be had. Maybe if you'd a few days to wait and watch for traders, but you've not that kinda time. Tell me what you desire most and I'll discreetly keep an eye out for'it."

after listening tothe discussions X says "I suggest we go it by foot then, we can rig up some pack saddles on a couple of the horses we have already to carry supplies and we can all walk. If that's ok with you guys I'll go and start prep in the stables. Also, I have plenty of rope and some torches." if there are no objections he finishes his breakfast and heads off to the stables.

Zinnaella follows Mistress Valzen into the tent and as the woman looks at her asking what she needs, Zinnaella looks down to the ground and let's out a breath, visibly relaxing herself. "I apologize for coming by again so soon, I... uh, well - I had no one else to go to." Zinnaella twists her toe in the dirt a little as she speaks. However, she keeps moving her foot after she speaks for a moment before taking a step back and finally looking up to Mistress Valzen. "This may be much to ask, but do you know anything of that?" Zinnaella indicates the ground, where she sketched the three offset circle mark that she found on the assassins. She watches Mistress Valzen as well, looking for any signs of recognition and weighing her voice as she responds. ((Sense Motive))[dice:y9vnado6]1d20+5[/dice:y9vnado6]

Mistress Valzen steps toward Zinnaella, close enough for Zinnaella to hear her intake of breath as she peers down on the scratches in dust. Immediately, Zinn knows she is afraid. Not the slight fear one gets from hearing another noise while settled and quiet in the nook of shadows along a rooftop, but the fear of being found, the sound of steel rasping out its holdings, and the shout of anger and intent. The Mistress swallows hard, haphazardly brushes the drawing away as if there are others who could see it, and steps back. "Where was it," she says to Zinnaella, her eyes hard and darting. She is visibly uncomfortable when Zinn tells her. Brushing past Zinn, Mistress Valzen thrusts her head out of the tent. She attempts composure, but her voice still sounds shrill. "HOSEF. HO..OSEF. Pack the wagon. We have business after the market and a long road to roll." The tent flap flutters close and Mistress Valzen turns to Zinnaella, close, so close Zinn can smell her anxiety like burning flint. She mutters at first, talking to herself, trying to find composure. "Consortium Assassins. Here. What in the world....." "Girl. Listen," she whispers into Zinnaella's ear. "These men that attacked you are no little fish. True, they sent yearlings to test, but even so. This is the Consortium's arm these are. Whatever your mixed up in, never let your guard down. Always knife in hand and wits. Everyone's an enemy or you'll find a copper in your mouth for the passing. Hear?" "Damn the lot," she grumbles breaking off and starting to rummage in a small wooden box. "Look," she says, pressing a small vial in Zinnaella's hand. "You go this morning. It'll not take long for the news of failure to start its way back if'n it already hasn't. Take this. A little elixir against their poisons. Works on most, but not all. You see them coming, you put this vial in your mouth, hear, and a single scratch you tip it back." "Gods spin a web they do. Give me a piece of your hair." ((If Zinn balks, Valzen describes a way her enclave can send a message by magic. It needs a piece of the target though. Zinn can accept or refuse. Zinnaella knows without doubt that Valzen is truly fearful of the Consortium and the fact that its assassin arm has been in Prejete.)) ((The Consortium is a group composed of those that use magic, sorcerers/wizards/druids, that is a Council of the King. There are four such Councils. The Consortium, the Lords (Nobles), the Council of Vira (Priests or Godly), and the Obchodnici (Merchants).))

Zinnaella willing accepts the potion and at the mention of leaving town she simply replies, "We already planned that." What the Mistress asks for a piece of hair, Zinnaella does indeed question why. Upon hearing that it could be used to send a message, she gives in and slices off a few pieces of hair with a dagger, handing them over. "With this news, I am glad that we met. Shadows protect you and yours." Zinnaella says softly to Mistress Valzen before heading out the door. As she exits, she doesn't looks back at all, acting the role of just another shopper. She heads back to the tavern, but pauses at the fronts of a few other shops on the way, taking the time as she pauses to check for anyone following her. Regardless of anyone following or not, she makes her way back to the inn and the others. ((Spot check))[dice:3t4zsuwk]1d20+5[/dice:3t4zsuwk] She meets up with whoever is still there, "I learned more - we *must* be on our way, soon. I'll explain on the road."

While eating, Val listens to the informations the other got. "Yeah, it seems like we don't have much time left." Val had got that impression from the beginning due to his visions. Now nearly everyone was getting signs. "I have nothing left to do here, so I'm ready when you are."

before we leave umslopogaas will go to the market because he wants to buy a sling

Pos waits until the party are ready and starts his job as guide to the party.

Evelyn waits till Tathza returns from the stables before she heads off to have a quiet word with Miro. She sees him preparing the horses, along with Xerxes, and patiently waits till he has a moment to speak with her. When this occurs she says to him in soft whispers, "you once told me information is our best defense." She continues, "I do not know if what I tell you is new to you, or that it will help you in anyway but I would like to share it with you the none the less." Evelyn tells Miro of her visions, giving as much detail as she can of those portrayed in the dreams, from the red pupiled man, who steals the tablet, to its effect on the towns above, to the old man who is murdered by the red pupiled man. "If you know anything of what I speak off, or wish to share any information, that might help to unravel these mysteries, then I will gladly listen." She concludes, "but that was not my intention of telling you this. It is my hope it will aid you to see through the mist of what is occurring in our lands and help you to act upon it for your own safety." Once their conversation is ended, she thanks him for his time and gives him a low respectful bow. Leaving the stables she returns to the taproom and says to the group, "Mitra and I wish to go to the market briefly we will return well before our time to leave" She holds out her hand to Mitra and they leave the cool room of the taproom to the streets outside. They return at the appointed time, well in advance of the group leaving the stables. [this is more to give Evil Wabit a chance to buy something for mitra if he wishes]

Tathza hears Miro's words and damns this town. "I was going to look for any defensive magic. Mages are not known for their ability to take blows without at least a spell. But you have my thanks for all the help you have given me. Take care of yourself." Tathza bows and leaves. He prepares for the road ahead. (Done til we leave town)

X rigged up the four horses with pack saddles and loaded up all the food, rope, torches, sunrods, water, extra weapons, and a few other small things and then asked Miro to keep the rest for him along with the carts. He gave Evelyn a raised eyebrow when she told Miro about her strange visions, but otherwise didn't say anything. After that he went back into the main room and packed a lunch with some of the leftovers Miro had given them. X now waits in the stables with the horses, sharpening and maintaining his weapons.

Miro listens to Evelyn describe her dreams and leaves Xerxis to settle the horses. Thin wisps of clouds can be seen, but they are the type that give no rain and live very high in the sky. Miro is already sweating in the un-natural heat. He wished for simpler times. Days in his tavern with good food and ale and friends to share laughter. It would have been nice, he thinks, to have known Evelyn in another time. Dread creeps in him now and he looks at her with concern. Hardship and death whispers around her and these days like a plague. Life would not be simple or easy. Black days are ahead. With this foreboding, Miro sighs and tries to smile at Evelyn, but it is difficult work. "You news is worrisome as is everything else," Miro says to Evelyn. "Men loose sense, the weather refuses to turn, assassins in my tavern. One doesn't have to be a savant to see the signs. I feel we are waiting for a fire to start, holding our breath part wishing for the flash and part dreading it. But I think its coming. I don't know what your dreams mean, but they are omens of truth and dire portents of the what's to come." Miro shakes his head. It's too early for such talk, to young in the day to turn one's mood black and somber. Friends should leave with grace and merriment, shouts of anticipating their return and the drinking that will bring, not fretting words of concern and leaving. "Whatever is to be I see you've a part to play," Miro says. "Come back to the Lonely Miner once you've found what's these riders are about. I'll begin my own digging and sending to have find out more for your return. Maybe we'll have enough pieces to figure it out then." Miro scratches his beard, a thoughtful or nervous habit. "Collect what you need, I'll be here to send you off." "Go," he says, "before I snatch up my armor and drag these foolish old bones after you." Miro checks Xerxis work and absently putter about the stables and yard. He finds this leaving of friends difficult even though he has only known them a few days. He's an old warrior and knows unconsciously when he meets someone who'll be standing on the same side of battle and have an impact on his life. Too many deaths have taught him regret at missed words. When the party gathers, Miro shakes each hand vigorously or gives great hugs to those in the party. To each he expresses his friendship and lets them know he's to be counted on. He'll send out messages and inquiries into events and be waiting for their return. It's still early morning when he opens the gate to the yard, a glint of sun light reflecting off a coin held in a leather cord around his neck. "Be off with ya already" Miro says at last and stands like a guard at his post. The party have little trouble out the city gate. The guards barely notice them, or perhaps specifically do not look at them leaving. Prejete gets smaller in the distance as the horses move. ((Please continue posting in the last section. Posta knows the way and plans can be discussed here along with other RP. I'll post about the land as you travel and, when it seems appropriate, the view as you come to the New Mine and its buildings.))

She trudges along with the others holding on to Eve's hand tightly. Today was a new day she told herself and so much could happen that if you didn't enjoy it would pass you by. As they got a little further from the gates she turned round to see the walled town in all it's glory. She memorised the view and took in a deep breath, then continued on the walk. She liked the dwarf he had seemed nice, he was inteligent but at the same time he was wise enough not to be arrogant like others. It was a shame that some people had come to upset the party but it was an explosive finally so that was at least, interesting. She was already getting tired of walking, why they couldn't just take the horses and the carts she didn't know but no doubt someones thinking was running away with themselves. Soon the sun was getting hot on her head so she removed some cloth and poured a little water on it then wraped it around her head to keep the sun from her eyes, she wrapped it expertly in a perfect shemagh, so that only her eyes were showing. She soon began to cool down as the damp water began to evapurate, she took hold of Eve's hand again and walked peacefully beside her watching the world go by one step at a time.

Xerxes says his goodbyes to Miro, ``I haven`t known you long, but what I know I like, I hope to return one day and get a real lesson in swordplay, until then, stay safe`` Leaving the city, X walks beside the horses in the middle of the group, sucking on a lime and sipping from his water skin, his breastplate packed away, strapped to a saddle, wearing instead the cooler and more nimble studded leather so as not to lag behind. Seeing Mitra trudge along he pokes her gently and says ``hey sharkbiscuit, the horses are fine with all the gear split between the four of them, if you want, go ahead and climb aboard this one, he`s still got plenty of load left in him. won`t be as comfortable as a saddle, but you can make it work``

Zinnaella takes a hug from Miro, holding it for a moment as she whispers quickly to him. "Take care, the assassins were Consortium," she lets him know, hoping that the assassins were only after her group - but not willing to risk that they may lash out at those that stopped their assassins without giving Miro a warning. As the party heads out, she keeps a careful eye out for any watching, both within the city and outside - knowing that even bandits could be as deadly as assassins if caught unprepared. Once the group has gotten well away from Prejete, to where the buildings meld together and far out of the listening range of anyone in the city, Zinnaella looks to the group and gathers them closer so they can talk while traveling. "I checked with a new friend in town about our visitors last night. They were sent from the Consortium of the Council of the King. They may have been weak themselves, but they have some strong backing. It appears that either these Hidden Riders have connections in high places, or we somehow upset someone with great power while we were in town. As much as I hate it, I think it's the first one."

((Added edit. Forgot to add but thought it might get missed.)) As Miro grasps Postavicka hand, he shakes it strongly. "Damn fine tapper you've been. Ride safe and may the winds bring you home sound. Here, found an old map for ya for the land around the old mines. Torn and old, but it may help some." ((Map is in map section. Than may RP whether he shows it or not.)) To Zinnaella: Miro holds Zinn for moment, her words slipping to him like a knife. "Be safe trader," he says, using an old rogues euphemism. "Keep your eyes open and trust only those you leave with." He smiles at her and grips her shoulder. It was time, Miro thought, to open some doors he'd closed long ago.

Tathza heard what Zin said and thought about it carefully. Most wizards would not allow themselves to be used, much less an organization full of wizards of such power. Tathza did not believe that the consortium was under the control of the riders, more likely they were allies or connected in some way. Only the foolish or the over confident send such weaklings, after all why waste your own time or powerful minions for minor distractions. He knew the mind set of such beings but if they kept surviving then things would get worse and their enemies anger would only rise. Knowledge (arcana) [dice:20l4iag6]1d20+9[/dice:20l4iag6] Knowledge (history) [dice:20l4iag6]1d20+5[/dice:20l4iag6] Knowledge (local) [dice:20l4iag6]1d20+6[/dice:20l4iag6] (All checks for info regarding the consortium)

Evelyn walks hand in hand with Mitra as the group make their way from Prejete. The heat is already almost unbearable but she takes it's burden allowing it to distract her thoughts instead. She knows of a spell that would allow her to endure this heat, but it seems such a wasteful luxury and she could never forgive herself if one of her companions lay dieing because she had run out of spells while she stood looking on, cool in the summer's heat. She smiles as Mitra makes her makeshift cooling accessory and aids her to get it to sit on her head properly. She observes the surrounding terrain, as if studying it for a painting and quietly moves up to Postavicka with Mitra and smiles at him in acknowledgment. "Im intrigued to know more about this land we travel through,"she says softly to him, "Are there any landmarks that would have an interesting tale to them?" When Zinnaella pulls in the group once, they are far from the town, she listens to the rogue's words.. and her eyes widen at its significance. "Let us pray that this attack is not the will of the entire consortium but a roguish offshoot that follow their own desires and plans." she adds softly knowledge religion check mainly for Vira to understand their relationship with consortium [dice:36ryd6wy]20+5[/dice:36ryd6wy]

She turns to Zinnaella, "I guess it was their tatoo that gave away their allegiance?" (assuming she says yes and wasn't something else) She then turns to the group, "The fact that we now know their mark ties them to a powerful group, tied to the king no less, poses a number of interesting possibilities." "For them to be plainly marked, all beit small, suggests several things to me. The first is that the person behind this may have seriously underestimated us, second that knowing the risks of the consortium's name being revealed should they fail, suggests that the mark sends us a message, a warning perhaps, to enduce fear in our hearts or paranoia, so that we may reconsider our quest." enjoying the respite from her own thoughts she continues, "The last possibility that I can think of at this moment is that knowing the mark would reveal an allegiance to a powerful group tied to the highest power in the land, could be deception, to make us believe we have made powerful enemies or makes us look in the wrong direction. If the mark is known to others, perhaps its mark is not a true one, but a copy." She turns back to Zinnaella, "is that possible? could such a mark be copied." (EDIT: crashed out so was unable to add sooner) - "Of course we do not know that the assassins sent was due to our involvement with the Hidden Riders, perhaps.." she eyes the group individually, a slight smile on her face, "it was due to something else..."

She chuckles at Xersis "Well I would ride the horsey but I don't want it to be even more burdened, I'll keep walking till my feet get tired. What happened with the dance. Last I remember I was dancing with you in the street and that girl kept looking at me?" before she can get an answer or a look she is whisked off further into the group to talk to a gnome, with Eve. As the others discussed and thought about the information, she nodded to Eve's final comment. "Yeah, I don't think some riders and a necklace to make an ugly girl pretty is really a quest worthy of assassins hunting us, so either it's something we have done as a group. Which is hardly likely since I don't think we have annoyed anyone enough yet to warrant assassins. The other thought is that someone is looking into our future and sees us being a threat and thus trying to eleminate us before that, but I don't see that being probably either, but it's one or the other." She squeezes Eve's hand, and her eyes light up with the knowledge that a mystery was in play and it was going to be a tough one to crack seeing as they had very little information to go on. Which were the best kind of mysteries.

Val nods at Miro as they leave him. He is silent during the departure, thinking about what already happened and what will happen in the future...

Zinnaella nods to Evelyn assumption that the tattoo was the source. "It is entirely possible that someone else could use a mark like that, either to try to blame the Consortium or to throw investigators off the trail. However, that plan would depend on someone both searching the bodies close enough to find the marks and then also to have either the knowledge or the resources to determine what it means. Since the assassins were so ineffectual and the marks so well hidden, I find that hard to believe. But I can't rule it out as a possibility either, there is just so little that we actually know."

"You are right, nothing can be ruled out," Evelyn replies, " and while we do know so little, I guess for the time being all we can do is keep our guard up and be vigilant in our watch both while camping and marching. We cant rule out the possibility we are being followed." "But it is good to have a mystery on our hands while we walk through these lands," she continues, "for it will help to pass the time as the terrain goes by." "I will be glad when we finally reach camp and get a respite from this heat." she mutters dryly to herself. Evelyn turns to Xerxes as they continue to walk, " I noticed you were good at making our room safer after we were attacked, something the rest of us forgot to action or think of perhaps. I wonder, do you know any good tricks to make our camp safer at night outside?"

She mentally checks her voice is working, it seems she is talking and no one is paying attention so maybe one last check before she just starts having fun with people ignoring her. She hears Eve asking about how to defend the camp. "Bells" she says "and string. You tie the bells to the string and then string it up and around the area and anyone that walks or knocks it sets the bells off so whoever is up and paying attention can hear. Course there is always some magic that no doubt Tath could lay around the camp to warn people." She watches to see if either react to her words.

"Bells and string is a good idea Mitra," Evelyn smiles, "if we can camp within a wood or someplace that would offer a similar vantage point to attach the string where someone could walk into it, unless we can use sticks to tie string too to keep them above the ground?," she muses, "a magic spell would be a good idea too if one is known." She looks to Tathza to see if he is listening to their conversation (if he isnt, Evelyn whispers into Mitra's ear 'I'll let you ask him about that if you don't mind.") Evelyn glances at Val, noting his silence. She makes a mental note to chat to him later, when she can.

"bells and string are a good idea, but do we have any? if we could get some string then I'm sure I could rig something up with some pieces of metal to clink against each other like a wind chime. in answer to your question though, no, not without some serious effort, I grew up on a boat, I'm not used to being out in the open where people can just walk up to you, the worst you can get is sea elves sneaking up on you, but I do know one thing for sure, I'm glad to have Umslo's wolf around, I think he's going to be better than any alarm system we can come up with and we've got Tathza, he's got better night vision than any. if we can pick a camp site that provides some shelter from the road, perhaps a rock outcropping or a dense cluster of trees, then we can build a fire and stay out of sight. if no one knows we're around then they can't bother us, if it's warm enough we'd be best off without a fire, we'll have to see"

She liked the salty sea dog he was at least friendly. "Sticks, they are always a good idea and you don't want the string visible otherwise it kind of defeats the object , so short sticks are best." she looks a little confused to the whisper but then it dawns on her what she means, she nods and mentally makes a note to ask later when the hlaf-drow would be in a better mood. She looked to Xerses and smiled "I've got some rope if that would help and I'm sure we can find some thing in and amongst the equipment that we can make clang together. Maybe the spare knives we picked up or something similar." She produces a brown bag from her satchel and pops a yellow sweet into her mouth. "Do you want a sucking sweet for the walk it will help keep you cooler." She offers it to the two companions. "I've also got some fluffy-clouds to put on sticks tonight and roast over the fire. Can't have a camping trip without them." She smiles an innocent childish smile.

Tathza hears the suggestions and hold his tongue on some of them. "There is a spell for warding an area with a magical alarm but I do not have such a spell, the best defense from being attacked is to keep yourself hidden. If we find a defensable location with only a few points of entry and cover then even if we are attacked our enemies would find their options limited as well as having traps or alarms set to aid us." Tathza would have liked to use a magical safe haven but such spells were just out of his reach.

Previously with Miro: "Why thank you ever so much, you have been good to me over the years and the necklace is such a wonderful thing." Pos looks at the map, "This map should help us loads". With a heartful handshake and wave he bids Miro goodbye. Now on the way: "I rekon bells and string are a great Idea, but you still need at least one person on watch at all times too". After a bit Pos takes the map of the old mines out. "Hey everyone, i've got a map of the old mines, it's a bit ragged so I can't hand it out but you are welcome to have a look." He holds up the map for the others to see.

umslopogass feelling better for being out of the city and back in the wilderness runs round with bollo, frolicking and gamboling alongside the party as they trudge through the wilderness

Reaching the New Mine in a day is an easy possible. If the party decides to walk with little rest, some, but not alot, than the party will reach the outskirts of the first mine buildings at dusk. Else, they may delay and camp, planning on moving through the New Mine area, into the first part of the mine (required), and up the long stairs to the Upper Mine Gate during the next day (The Party must travel into the mine opening to get to the stairs, a short distance, to make the plateau above.). Travel in that manner will put the Great Tree in view by dusk the next day as opposed to traveling past it if they reach the New Mine on the first. (Clear as Mudd?) Of course, you could re-route around the New Mine, but that would take days. =============================================================================================== To Tathza: Concerning the Consortium, you only know from study of the History of Arcana and related groups within, that the Consortium is a very large and powerful surface Political Entity. They do, on occassion, have business with the Drow. There are some darker, read ancient, histories regarding the Drow assisting the Consortium in a battle with those who wield power from the Gods. In your memory, those of the Consortium are named the Un-Godly. You remember this because at the time it seems odd, or somewhat funny to you as a drow. Local Eastern knowledge does not add much. They view the Consortium and the other Kingly councilors with some whimsy and gossip, but, excepting the King himself, these groups have not had much to do with the Eastern Lands even after the Binding Age, or bringing together all of Turan under one crown. To Evelyn: It is no secret that throughout history the Council of Vira and the Consortium have been at odds. They infrequently align for a common goal. It has happened, but it usually requires a great threat or advantage. They have not been openly hostile in the span of people's memory, although children in the Central Lands still play Wizards and Priests, pitting the two against each others in mock battles of power. It is unlikely, given Evelyn's up-bringing, that she would know more.

(Im assuming the above info has come from our guide Posta?) "Both options have their benefits, I dont mind either way, It would probably serve us well to travel faster, if the assassination attempt was linked to our quest but not to the detriment of facing fatigue." Evelyn says softly in Posta's direction, "Are we free to pass through the new mine to the stairs without confrontation?" she asks, "Or do we need to think of a reason for wishing to travel that way." "I had wondered if it was worth suggesting we split our marches to avoid the sun a little." she muses, "We could march in the early hours of dawn, rest during midday and march again in the evening."

To Eve "As you are with me we should be allowed through, If someone asks why I'll explain we were sent by the Major, there are people that know me at the new mines".

"OK That's good," Evelyn smiles. "What do you recommend Postavicka?" she asks, " Should we travel tonight to the upper Plateau, or camp here, near to the mines?"

Suddenly, Val interrupts his silence. "Who are we ?" As the other group members look at him quite confused, he continues "I mean shouldn't we use a name for our company now that we are taking missions ?" "If we are successful and build up a reputation, we should have a name I think. As far as I know, that's quite usual for adventuring groups."

"What makes you think we are a adventuring group as you put it. From what I recall we were sent to do a job and once it is done that will be the end of it." Why did some people always feel the need to name everything. They were being hunted and attacked at every turn and now they want to make it easier for their enemies to find them and track their movements.

Evelyn is loss for words, caught of guard by his statement. [i:yymyyeyd]'It is so random!,'[/i:yymyyeyd] she thinks to herself, [i:yymyyeyd]'his thoughts must be too distracting for him'' [/i:yymyyeyd] hearing Tathza's cool response she can't help but get a little defensive and pipes up, "In the future I think an adventuring name would be a great idea, and there is no harm to think of one now, as no doubt a good reputation will open doors to things we might not normally access too." she glances at Tathza, "Regardless of who stays or who goes after this quest is done." "However 'I think under the circumstances," she continues, "it would probably be more prudent to have no name until we have a better understanding on who we have upset and how deep this animosity may go." "But saying that," she argues with herself, "Having a name now would show we have no fear to announce who we are to those who are out to get us."

She smiles and thinks, [i:1nrhxe2e]what a great suggestion.[/i:1nrhxe2e] She thinks for a bit then says "Seeing as we are chasing the Riders of Tomorrow, how about we call ourselves the Walkers of Yesterday." She titters to herself.

Evelyn puts a hand to her mouth to stop her from breaking down with laughter, nudging Mitra, eyes bright.

Tathza gives them a cool look that could be read as boredem. "Fear has nothing to do with it. Anyone who makes themselves known is a target of their enemies as well as anyone else making them out to be a easy mark. Those who do not have the power to bring down their enemies have no right to give themselves titles and names that will do nothing but bring undue trouble. If you focused more on the mission and less on such trival things maybe you would not always be such easy marks. What will your name do for you in a battle or at the tip of a sword I wonder?" Tathza dismisses it with a wave of his hand and a shake of his head. He was with a group of novices that cared more about a name then about their mission. They did not deserve a name or anything else for that matter as they have done nothing of note worthy of such a thing.

Val smiles at Mitra, "What a great idea to consider a name that fits with our first mission !" [i:ghycsosc]...even if you only wanted to make me look dumb...[/i:ghycsosc] "As we have to fight the hidden riders of tommorow, what about something with lances. Perhaps the silver lances ?" he says while laughing. [Edit] At Tathza remarks he adds "Well, dark friend it seems we already got enemies who are ready to attack us, so I don't think that this would make us an easier target.

She titters some more then swallows hard when Tath says his peace. "Oh come on Tathza lighten up a little, it was only a joke because of the name of our opponants. Besides a name wont hurt, since the assassins already know what we look like and probably our names, maybe even our backgrounds. I'm sure you know that there is powerful magic in the world that will allow others to spot us from the other side of the mountains maybe even the other side of the planet. Whatever we have done to annoy whoever it is that sent the assassins I have a feeling they are probably powerful enough to hirer someone that can do that." She says with something a kinn to true clarity. She looks to Val and Eve and her face softens and the childish nature returns to her voice. "Oooo Silver Lances I like that, but aren't they what riders use to cut people down? Is it a pike that troops use to cut down riders? Or we could be the Silver arrows?"

Evelyn smiles as Val says his joke Turning to Tathza she says, "Actually if your name encompasses power and skill then your name would do you well at the tip of the blade, Imagine the look of the attacker's face when they realise they attack the great heroine, Premysl or Sviatoslav (see world section) ," Evelyn remarks jovially, "I mean this well but sometimes we can take things too seriously, we have to live a little aswell, not hide in our little holes with our heads in the sand. Sometimes it is good to make a stand, to believe in who we are, and throw a little caution to the wind if the gods will it." she continues, "Even our great heroes had to start somewhere, but it still does not take away our current predicament, and on that I share Tathza's concerns of announcing our group name too soon." "but it does not hurt to think one up." Evelyn concludes with a smile and a wink in Tathza's direction.

After all this time, it seems that Mitra and Val are getting along. "Yeah, you could be right, perhaps X knows more about the weapons used to fight the cavalery." "To be honest, I wanted to say silver arrows at first, but as I'm the only archer I believe a more neutral name would fit better." This little chat enlightens the group, at least most of them. They could all need it after last night's attack. "If we want something more exotic we could use a foreign language. I only know elven."

"Silver Arrow?" Evelyn turns to Mitra, "That sounds interesting, what do you think of that name Val?" she asks smiling at him, "we would need to buy you some of course," she laughs, "We couldn't be the silver arrows without our archer carrying a few."

Tathza wondered what god he had insulted that would do this to him. Death was almost agreeable. He had not survived by throwing caution to the wind as it were, in fact it was because he refused to allow such a thing that he lived and so many of his would be killers were forgotten. No wonder he was sought out, who else was going to keep an eye on such a group. As always Tathza would keep watch and do what he could. He wondered how close to death they would need to get before they learned basic tactics. If they did that maybe then he could have some peace of mind. Tathza let out a whisper in Draconic "Let our worlds end and our bodies turn to dust for the eternal sphere will remain"

"I don't know what you said" Val turns to Tathza, "but I bet it wasn't a compliment." he laughs. "Yeah, we could buy some next time we are in a village. They sure could come handy against certain foes." "Oh, and silver arrows is spelled [i:y6if9uw5]fleches argentees[/i:y6if9uw5] in elven" [would be spelled flesh argent-ey ???]

"Im sure he wouldn't wish to insult us openly in any language, for you never know who might understand it," Evelyn says in perfect Celestial with a gleam in her eye. When Val looks at her blankly not understanding her words she laughs and continues in common, "Come on! let us think of some new party names to pass the time!" Evelyn links her arms around Mitra's and Val's and drags them forward laughing.

She tittered again as the poor half-drow spoke Draconic "Oh he could have said somethings far worse than what he actually said, but if he wants to remain ever vigilant then let him, doesn't mean he has to spoil the rest of our fun. you never know we might rub off on him." She says with a wink to Tath. She listens to the elven words "Oooo Fleches Argentees, sounds ominous." She says with a smile. She smiles to Eve "Oh you are naughty." She says in celestial.

As the trio walk forward suggesting absurd names for fun, hugging onto his arm, Evelyn glances at Val and smiles warmly at him, ending with a mischievous wink. She hopes this distraction has been enough to keep him from his somber thoughts.

As they walk one near the other, Val looks at Mitra before looking at Eve. "Thanks a lot. I haven't had that much fun since, well since yesterday when we danced" he laughs.

She walks with the other two humming a tune and murmering some of the words "Abra, abra, cadabra, I want to reach out and grab ya." She answers automatically, "We didn't dance yesterday, I did some dancing with Xers... hold wait a second who are you talking too?" She looks over to Val and notes his eyes and smile at Eve. She looks Eve. "What the heck, you went dancing with him?"

"I'm glad to hear it Val," Evelyn smiles, "We are facing a great danger on the horizon so there is little time left for laughter." She turns to face Mitra and says, "Why yes, we all danced last night, don't you remember?" "Well all of us who know how to enjoy themselves when there's a party going on," she whispers, winking mischievously.

"Silver weapons are just for show, they do less damage as they can't be sharpened the same as steel, I'd be embarrassed to name ourselves after silver weapons, that kind of thing is for the poofs at the castles" thinking a bit X says "the way I was raised groups don't have names, it's people that have names and even then, only when they've earned them, you follow a captain and you're one of his men, you fly his banner. since none of us are named I don't see the point. for now the only one I follow is myself, so until I find a new captain or earn the right to call myself one.... ...but if you guys would like to come up with a name I don't mind using it for the time being"

"Yeah, a lot of us danced. Don't you remember ?" After a while, he pats Mitra shoulder "Well, I can't blame you for that. I don't remember everything myself." "Perhaps we should name our group 'Hangover', that would suit us" he laughs while showing at Zinn with his head.

"I don't remember dancing, except with Xerses? Hmmm oh well at least the party must of been good." She looks to Val, "Nah, I'm not allowed alcohol I'm to young for that. So we can't call ourselves 'Hangover'." She then follows his eye line to Zinn and looked confused. She listens to the seadog explain about silver weaponry "Well I guess thats true unless we plan on fighting some poofs, or vampires or werewolves, or some other abhorent creatures. Well I don't think we need a captain to be named, I mean I have a name and it's Mitra so that can't be true. Come on don't be a grumpy grouch like Tath, not after we had such a great dance. What suggestion do you have?" She pokes the sailor gently "Come on you have to join in, what name would you like to see us called by?"

('poofs at castles' - very funny - although tell that to the werewolves!) "I'm a little confused," Evelyn replies to Xerxes, "What about ship names? Surely an adventuring party name would be much like a ship name, a banner to collect under like a crew on a ship, a bit like a family name i imagine to show we belong someplace." "But I respect your words," she continues, "we are lightening the mood of our quest, with names but whether they are serious contenders for a group name, or whether we will actually give ourselves a group name is yet to be seen." She smiles.

"you're right Mitra, we all have names, but that's not what I meant, everyone has a given name when they're born, but some people do extraordinary things like come back from the brink of a hopeless battle or accomplish something big or even just survive and those people earn a name and they're forever after called by that name and they're called named men. like Black Dow, Harding Grim, Rudd Threetrees, Dogman, Tul Duru, Furious, and of course Logen Ninefingers... the bloody nine; those are the kind of guys that people listen to, they've earned their names and that's what I want. ship's are named by their owners and usually have sentimental meaning like the name of a loved one or are designed to inspire confidence or competence or even fear. I guess you have a point, but as for our group name, I'd of figured that sort of thing comes from people talking about you, not from you talking about yourselves, like if we manage to stop these hidden riders the people might call us the enduring defenders or the hands of Vecer, doesn't matter what's true or isn't, it's what people think is true, their perception of us will make us who we are or aren't to them and for now we're nothing but trouble except to a seldom few like Miro"

Evelyn makes a mental note to ask Xerxes later about these men he has mentioned. "You are right we would not wish to seem self indulgent in calling ourselves a name that is far superior to who we are, or suggest we are something we are not. I see you feel strongly about this, and am happy to let our future actions mould a name for ourselves, should the gods will it." Evelyn replies, "Thank you for telling me about the significance of a ship's name." "Let us pray then," Evelyn adds on a lighter note, " That our archer doesn't take a liking to firing silver arrows and thus give us a 'poofish' name." She smiles, elbowing Val playfully.

"You are only making me to consider it now more than ever." Val answers Evelyn He continues on a more serious tone, "But even if I did, I doubt that would give us such a name. Well then, as some a strongly opposed to it, I assume we should forget it; at least for now. Sorry to have brought up such a silly idea."

She sighs "Oh well there goes the fun. Welcome back the blues. Whats wrong with having a little fun every now and then, if we had to be serious all the time we would be old and gray before our time."

"Well now the fun has gone," Evelyn smiles, "Perhaps we can make a decision on whether to camp now or continue to the higher plateau, what do you all think?"

"it's not a silly idea, where we're going you'll name you soon enough, either that or you'll be back in the mud. then I call myself one of your men" to Eve X says "I think we should press on to the shelter of the mines, even if we can make it up near them we should at least be able to find a hole to bunk in, will be much easier to watch for the night if we have three walls at our backs" ((I don't know anything about werewolves or vampires... so we'll see, maybe I'll change my mind!))

Val was surprised by Eve's question, as he didn't feel the need to rest so soon. "If anyone feels tired I assume we could start to look for a secure place to stay." "What do you think ?" he asks the group.

((All, just wanted you to know I am following along. I haven't posted as although a consensus is soon, I didn't know if one was reached about camp vs march through to dusk and to the New Mine. I didn't want to push the party into one action or the other, although it seems 'pushing' through has the day.))

"I'm for pressing on to get as close to the new mines as possible."

Serpen 21 of the Union Year 997 As the party march or walk, depending on the depth of banter and need for periodic breaks for small amounts of food and drink, the horizon begins to alter. At first, it is a flat dusty brown distance, wavering as heat is reflected from the land creating a mirage of desert sands and dust tunnels. The green fades quickly to dead brown away from Prejete. More abandom farms pass like the hulls of shipwreck vessels except they do not rock under the coming and going of the tide. Bones of cattle and bloated bodies are occassionally found littering dry fields, usually clustered around a spot where surely the very last water remained before completely drying out. The march out into the low hills is desolate. As the party go, the horizon shifts to rounded mounds then rises to display far off mountains of impressive size. They grow larger and larger as the company continues into the foothills. Scrub brush, used to dryer conditions amid thin parchment grass, dot the landscape. Then a faint darker line can be seen in the long middle distance. It grows, rising from the floor of the foothills until all can tell it is a long continuous cliff some hundred meters high. A darker circle appears in its side and curious thick lines bracket it. The New Mine. It takes some time to see the buildings, dwarfed by the spectacle of land the surrounds it. Five long building nestle in a neat row side by side. Postavicka notes them as the miner's hall where the five shifts sleep and live when not on duty. A few other bulding clutter around them; a small tavern and various administrative buildings. The sun will be setting soon, but the New Mine is easily reachable by dusk. Postavicka tells that the mine is staffed by less men than usual. Only a single shift works, the others having been called back to Prejete by the Mayor and set to work on various city projects. This would be normal for this time of year as the Harvest Holiday should have taken place a couple weeks ago. But there was little to harvest this season. The Mayor, although, only sent the single shift back to the mines, which was odd after his push to mine more than normal this year. The Mayor had sent 7 shifts to work from mid-summer to increase production for storage. Only a modest amount extra was exported. Postavicka knows the Steward of Mines, Kaska, who works out of the mine's berthing office. The maw of the New Mine is a gapping black hole in the side of the cliff, its diameter nearly half the cliff face. A collection of large beams frame each side, reinforced with iron binding to hold the mine open, or at least give some fantasy that the miners were safe from the cliff covering them with dirt and burying them alive.

Pos after outlining the buildings to the others says "I should go and see Kaska now to let him know that we would like to travel through the mines. We may be able to rest in the miner's hall as it's not busy at the moment, i'll ask about that too." "Perhaps it's best if you all wait outside his office when I go in and speak to him first, he may then call to see you after I spoken to him." Pos goes to Kaska's office to ask him for permission to travel through the mines and if possible they could rest in the Miner's hall.

Zinnaella travelled with the group, but after reporting her news she felt her headache from the party returning, and so she spent the rest of the trip keeping a lookout for any one following and for any possible ambushes, keeping her more than busy.

umslopogass stare in wonder at the massive hole surrounds by timber and iron frames " deer walk upon our moutains, and the quail whistle about us their spontaneous cries sweet berrys ripen in the wilderness and, in the islolation of the sky, at everning, casual floks of pigeons make ambiguous undulations as they sink, downward to darkness on extended wing. "

Evelyn looks on at the yawning maw of the mine entrance, its dark welcome encompassed in shadow. She feels a comfortable presence within her as she is drawn to it and a smile slowly spreads across her lips as she welcomes the feeling. Saying nothing, she simply agrees with Postavicka's words with a nod and follows him and the rest of the group toward the mine complex.

Serpen 21 of the Union Year 997 The town of New Mine is quiet in the evening, mainly as there are less working shifts. There is still light in the sky and a dull noise suffuses the town from a few buildings along the western edge. The galley is there and some miners are starting their evening meal. As the company weaves around the sprawling wooden barracks building, they come to a dirt track that leads to the administrative buildings along the town's eastern border. The Cliff looms overhead casting a shadow that now stretches well into the foothills they had just traversed. Postavicka guides them to the billeting office easily and with sure feet. Rounding the edge of a building with a sign reading 'Weighing', the see the small billeting office off to the left. An enormous man sits precariously behind a tiny little desk. The man sits on a very little stool that is difficult to see given his bulk. He towers over the desk and if he spread his arm out his hands would wing well past its edges. Seeing Postavicka, the man breaks into a great smile, showing the few yellow black teeth he had left. His face is dominated by an exceptionally flat nose, as if someone had beaten it against his face. The lines crisscrossing that face filled with black coal dust even though they only let him in the mine on one or two days a week. "Oy, Vicka," the man says excitedly and tries to stand, forgetting that rising from the desk required a significant foreplay of movements to extricate himself. As it was, the man was now standing with the desk fastened to his upper legs and some meters off the ground. With a guffawing laugh, the large man removes the desk and sets it aside with a clutter. In two steps he closes on Postavicka and company. To say Kaska is huge is an understatement. His nearly 2.5 meter tall frame casts a shadow that engulfs Postavicka. Still laughing, he crouches down, slides a shovel size hand under Postavicka's right armpit, and picks the gnome off his feet. "Oy, Vicka. Look you've grown," he says again with his characteristic toothy smile, turning Postavicka this way and that like a doll. Setting Postavicka down, he grabs the head lantern slung around his neck and places it on his head. Then he digs for fire sticks in his mining apron like an excited child. "You come ta mine Vicka now you've grown. Kaska be your lantern and rope man. None better than ol'Kaska even if they don't let him in da'mine but one or two days now an'then. Not much work ta be done," Kaska says before lowering his voice a little so that it only resounds off the surrounding buildings instead of the hills, the Cliff, and the sky itself. "Little party go Deep. Deep. Maybe we go Deep too." Seeing the others as if for the first time, Kaska straightens, but his smile never leaves his face. He passes Postavicka and grabs each person's hand, shaking it vigorously, his miner's light shining in your eyes. "Oy Newling. Proud ta see ya. Ready ta mine. Good then. I'll teach ya what's important ta get you back to family and friend," Kaska says. Even if you demure, hiding in the back, Kaska hunts you out and tries to grab hold of you hand. He repeats the same sentence to each. Some would think the words are rehearsed, but they are not. They flow off his lips nearly unconsciously as if he's said them all his life. The miners call Kaska many things. Some call him Commander of the Mountain when telling tales of his doing. Others. Simply the Miner.

Tathza takes the man's words and manners with little notice. He may seem simple but Tathza would not be surprised if this same man could cut a orc in half with the same easy manner. Tathza may take a closer look around once everything is settled. He would ask the warrior and maybe the elf. The females would be of little use and in his eyes could not be counted on in any event. "Greetings"

X nods at the large man and shakes his hand and otherwise stands by silently, eyes on the paths in and out of this place.

Beams a smile back at the mountain of a man "Oooo I wish we had time to learn how to mine, it sounds so exciting being deep in the earth with the noise of the world going on all around you and the heart beat of the world below you." Her eyes get a little misty, then she lets out a sigh "Unfortunately we can't, we are looking to travel on to soon. Maybe it's best I let Vicka explain it for you." She smiles up at him a warm friendly smile.

"It is a pleasure to meet you Sir," Evelyn says softly as her hand is shaken up and down in long movements causing her body to move with it. She adds, "you mention a little party have gone deep in the mines, I guess you mean your miners or is it another group you refer too?"

Val just nods at the miner as they shake hands. He was impressed by his size, could he be something like a half giant ?

"Not my miners," Kaska says. "Others. From the city," he adds with a wink and a knowing nod. "Thems go deep into the old holes." Kaska looks way down to Mitra's face, hears her words, a let out a bit of a sigh that comes out like a grunt. Pulling his the lantern down from his head and extinguishing the flame, the turns to Postavicka. "Vicka not come ta mine," he asks dejectedly.

"Others from the city?" Evelyn responds to Kaska's words, "I did not realize anyone can visit this mine, or were these people known to you?" She realizes she is talking out of turn and faces Postavicka saying, "I'm sorry Posta, he is your friend and I should let you at least catch up with him first and state our business here before I ask more questions." She gives Posta a meaningful look as she says her words.

at the developing conversation X turns towards the mine entrance, taking a couple steps, moving slowly so as not to attract too much attention and buckles on his shield for good measure, hand resting on a hammer strapped to his leg. [i:fj27k04j]I wonder if I'll get to sleep tonight or not... maybe not, you've got to be realistic about these things[/i:fj27k04j] move silently ((in the attempt to move closer without anyone noticing too much, I don't want to make everyone else paranoid just because I am.)) [dice:fj27k04j]1d20+0[/dice:fj27k04j] (edit: lol not too subtle...)

"Oy, there Newling," Kaska's voice booms as he is attracted to Xerxis moving off toward the new mine. "You've got no tools to ore. Come, it's late to enter the Hole." Then, realizing he'd abruptly spoke over Everlyn's voice, he quickly apologizes. "Sorry Miss," Kaska says with a wane smile. "No offense meant to shout over ya. Thems that go deep no friends of Kaska's. They've papers to go in they have. Ordnary folk be fools to wander in the mine let'lone into the Pressing Dark." "Sun's down. Should show ya to quarters. Your pick. We've short men, so buildings one, twa, and three are empty. Ya can take one of them or bunk with the crew. There's plenty a room. Ya'all need eats?"

Pos smiling all the time even when upside down being swung. "Hey now Kas man, how it hanging. Good to see ya." With a big old smile "You look like you doing really good, we shall have to have a drink and talk about how things going here." "We are on a mission Kas, yea a real mission, me and these fine people." Pos gestures to the others. "We was also wondering after a night rest if you would allow us passage through the mines as we may need to as part of our mission." Pos gives Kas anouther big old smile and says "Yea good ta see you again."

"That's ok," Evelyn replies softly, "no offense taken, you are simply looking out for our safety no doubt." "Thank you for letting us stay here," she adds, "I don't know about the others but I'm a little hungry, perhaps you would join us with our meal and tell us more about this fine mine you take care off?"

"Ooo yes and what it is that you mine here?" She says wide eyed and interested.

" greetings " umslopogaas shakes the mans hands " glad to make your aquatance my name is umslopogaas"

Evelyn asks Kaska in passing as they make their way to the other buildings, "What did you mean be the pressing dark?"

with a nod at Kaska X starts walking towards one of the bunk houses, bringing the horses with him to unload them.

Gives Kas a friendly nudge, "So Kas, how is your drinking these days remember those times where we drunk ourselves stupid till 6 in the morning"

Walking on the other side of Kaska to Postavicka she smiles as they reminisce, curiosity getting the better of her, she pipes up, "Sorry to pester you with questions Kaska but I'm confused why anyone would want to go into the mines, if not to mine something. Did the other people explain why they wanted access to your mine, were they the friendly sort?"

Kaska's head swivels about this way and that as he lumbers toward the galley. He greets Umslopagaas warmly and happily, commenting on his nice 'puppy', and gives directions to find them after Xerxis has laid his gear down should the man wish. His voices thunders over his heavy footsteps. "Oy misses," he says to Evelyn. "When one goes too Deep under the Cliff in the black, the weight of it can make a man loose his senses. If'n your light goes out or you get yurself lost, one by one the Pressing Dark will either take you home or squeeze the air outta ya till your nuthin but worm meal. Miners have just lied down an given up, sometimes mere meters from the shaft that would take them out. That's the Pressing Dark. Them city men goin very Deep. Could tell by the size of their packs and amount of food they pack. Thems not comin out. Methinks they're hunting for the Door of Korenove." Kaska wiggles side to side in his steps as if shivering, putting emphasis on his words. Then laughing he puts a huge arm around Evelyn grasping her far shoulder and another round Postavicka. "But ale calls as Postavicka says. Time for drinking and friends, coal black or clean, newling or not. Aya, Vicka. Remember well fishing you from under the table the night we drank to your firs trip in. Rite of passage that was. Laughter warm away the coal dust an make a man outta ya. Too bad your not in for mining, but these folk get a good'un in ol'Vicka. Hearts as big as he." Kaska holds the door open for Evelyn and the others. "Don't know misses. But we kin ask Damek. He Chief Miner. Come on little un," he continues to Mitra. "We mine ore and coal but we don't eat'it." The party enters the galley, a long wooden building with enough tables for a few hundred miners. Only the front three tables, those nearest the serving line, are occupied. The tables are half full and about 45 miners in all are eating. When the party enters, a few look up. It's not until Kaska comes in, last among those entering, does a change come. Every miner stands. Each one by his place. It's not suddenly quiet; some stand shoving spoons with potato or soup in their mouths, smiling at Kaska with food around their teeth, and others continue the conversations they were at before standing, although with slightly lowered voices. Voices here and there shout Kaska a greeting, saying his name or shouting it. But, they all stand. Kaska passes the party waving his arms like some monstruous bird beckoning them to continue their meal, answering each person who says his name with a nod or returning their own through his lips. "Newlings all," he laughs turning to the party and guiding them to the platters and the miners return to their seats. Kaska walks down a table set with food and loads to his liking. Although there are open tables, Kaska sits with the miners, taking a spot next to the last miner on a table. He knows each one and they know him. They are not, as Kaska joked, Newlings, but they all, at one time or another, were his Newlings.

Tathza suddenly pays attention when the man mentions the Door of Korenove. He knew he had heard of it before but could not place it. The door was ancient and something. Knowledge (arcana) [dice:3n69u21e]1d20+9[/dice:3n69u21e] Knowledge (dungeoneering) [dice:3n69u21e]1d20+6[/dice:3n69u21e] Knowledge (history) [dice:3n69u21e]1d20+5[/dice:3n69u21e] Knowledge (local) [dice:3n69u21e]1d20+6[/dice:3n69u21e]

To Tathza: Local belief and custom says the Door of Korenove is thought to lead to the Roots of Turan. To the place of its foundation and the Duše Brána, Gate of Souls. It is through the Gate of Souls that one goes, neither alive nor dead, for Vecher to collect and determine their Zmena. Those who study and use non-godly magic write that Jeden-dírka went to the Duše Brána and brought from it the great sword Chlad Voda with which Premysl avenged her husband's death and Sviatoslav united Turan. The drow call it Alma Portão and say it holds Coração de Escuridão, the Heart of Darkness. A item of un-imaginable power.

Tathza stops walking as his memories hit him as to the name of the door and its meaning. His mind was racing, anyone would want to get thru that door. Tathza was no fool, he craved power but he knew some things were better left alone. He could tell his group of the door but he wondered how much to tell them and what they would do. He did not trust them by far and even those who did have trust could betray with such a lure of power. If he had it his way he would make sure that door was never found and sealed for all time. Another part of him wished to find that door and at the very least study it, but he dismissed it quickly. Those who entered the mine could not be allowed to find the door and any who sought it could not be allowed to enter it. Even if the legends were true of the last person to enter it, they had left with great power and had it been a lesser person they could have brought great distruction to the world. This would have to be looked into. Tathza could not allow this to pass. Tathza also hoped he would never find the door. He held the same hope for his group. If the door was found he would be damned if he allowed any to enter or at least not before him if that was the case.

"Door of Korenove!" Evelyn gasps, the gasp coming more from the immense strength of Kaska as he grips her shoulder, while leading them along to the long wooden building ahead. [knowledge religion check for the door] [dice:1y61tzd8]20+5[/dice:1y61tzd8] "That sounds rather exciting," She continues softly, "when did they leave for the door?" Realising she has run out of time for more questions she asks no more, while they enter. Evelyn bows graciously as she passes Kaska, holding the door open for them, feeling a little out of place as the miners stare at them. Evelyn relaxes when the miners acknowledge Kaska in a friendly way, seemingly accepting the group's presence and takes a seat next to Kaska (or near, allowing Posta to sit closest or opposite whatever he should wish). As Kaska eats she asks, "Ive not heard much of this door before, (bad knowledge roll), is there a tale to be told about it that would lighten this moment while we eat?" she asks, eyes bright, trying to give him what she hopes is a persuasive smile.

Zinnaella reflexively shields her eyes from Kaska's mining light as the big man makes his way to her, but she still shakes his hand as he makes his rounds. She watches him greet every single individual and she looks to Evelyn, raising an eyebrow in concerned amusement about the very big guy. She then follows the group, listening and watching for the time being - more than willing to let others ask the questions that needed to be asked. As Kaska starts talking about the Deep and the black of it, she feels a slight smile come to her face and a lightness in her steps. [i:3i30db5n]Ahh, the dark. So many fear it, although I doubt Kaska is one that fears without reason,[/i:3i30db5n] she thinks to herself. However, that smile and bounce disappear as Kaska mentions time for drink. She slumps down a little, a combination of shame for getting so drunk and residual of pain from the hangover and she returns to focusing on simply listening to the discussion and gathering information. She starts paying attention just as Tathza suddenly and unexpectedly stops walking. As she had been trailing, lost in her own thoughts prior to that, she quickly sidesteps and twists around him, instead of running into his back, as her momentum was still moving her forward. She ends up facing Tathza, only a couple steps in front of him. She is about to give him a dirty look, but something in his face stops her. Concern, fear, determination? Zinnaella shook herself mentally, sure she was mistaken since it didn't seem likely that anything could actually rattle Tathza. "What?" she mouths to the half-drow, so that no one else can tell she was speaking.

Evelyn returns the amused look to Zinnaella, shrugging her shoulders and smiles back.

Tathza snaps out of his thoughts quickly and saw that Zin had noticed his reaction. Tathza whispers to Zin "I think we should follow those people. If they even come across it, we will all be effected. We may want to speak of this later." Tathza begins walking again at a easy pace not bothering to catch up with the group.

Zinnaella turns her head as Tathza walks past her to follow the group. She hesitates a moment then shrugs and follows along as well. [i:27yebc4l]What else does he know?[/i:27yebc4l] she thinks. [i:27yebc4l]Most likely, I'll never know. Ironic that he's keeping secrets, yet again. Well, time will tell.[/i:27yebc4l]

umslopogaas sits down with kaska and tucks in to the foood and drink, listening to the big mans storys whislt feed bollo with food of his own plate

Val simply follows the group and takes a seat. While eating he tries to pay attention to the stories told.

Before Kaska has time to respond Evelyn says, "Perhaps before you tell us about the door I can tell a tale of my own?" Evelyn smiles. Looking to Mitra to see if she is settled for Mitra enjoys tales as much as she does, Evelyn begins, "This is a tale of three brothers, named Yedan, Dvar and…” she looks at Kaska with a smile and says,”..and Kazkan.” She continues, “Yedan the eldest was athletic and handsome, Dvar, was shorter but highly intelligent, Kazkan, the tallest, a gentle giant. Living in a small village at the bottom of a mountain it was natural for the brothers to all fall in love with the same girl. Her name was Nula and she was very pretty. Yeden the bravest of the three asked for her hand in marriage to which she replied, “While our betrothal would sing in my heart, I feel as I have known all three of you all my life I should let you all have a chance for my hand.” She turned to all three brothers and said, “Bring me a gift that shows how much you love me and I shall marry the one who brings the greatest gift of them all.” The following morning they all set out on their journeys. Yeden and Dvar, laugh at Kazkan as he straps on his backpack, “Dear brother Kazkan,” Yeden jovially laughs, “Nula will not marry a simpleton like you.” They laugh at him. Yeden leaves first, jumping onto his mighty horse, and kicks dust into Kazkan’s eyes as his steed runs like the wind across the flat land. Dvar jumps into a craft he has made that can fly in the sky, waving to Kazkan laughing, “So long brother!” and flies to the heavens. But Kazkan is not the simpleton his other brother’s believe him to be, he is quite intelligent and has learned of the ways of the underdark. Hefting his pack he marches into a cave in the mountain and makes his journey down. Many months later Yeden finds what he seeks, the most beautiful flower in the world, the Ruza, growing in the garden of Morava. “Ah such beauty only my true love can compare to this!” he exclaims, picking the flower he races home. Dvar rising through the skies to the heavens above finds what he seeks also a shining star! “Ah! A gift from the heavens!” he exclaims, “my brothers cannot match this!” Kazkan travels for many miles underground and finds what he seeks too, two beautiful gems, a diamond and a ruby, the largest the world has ever seen. “I shall fashion them into wedding rings!” beams Kazkan as he picks them from their resting place and returns to the surface. All brothers meet as they return to the village, “Oy! Brothers!” shouts Kazkan, “Look what I have, the largest diamond and ruby in the world!” “Is nothing!” snaps Yeden, “I have the most beautiful flower that only my true love can compare too!” and produces the flower but to his horror it has died from lack of water. “Ha! Fool!” shouts Dvar, “Mine is better, I have a star, a gift from the heavens above!” and produces the star but it has turned to dull rock for he did not know the star couldn’t survive on the ground. Both brothers are devastated and Kazkan looks to his brothers and his love for them stops him from gloating his victory. Instead he hands each one of his gems, “Here you take brothers, Nula probably wants you more anyway,” He says with sorrow. The two brothers not caring for Kazkan’s sacrifice, exclaim together, “Ha! One of us will wed her now for sure!” Returning to Nula, Yeden, followed by Dvar give her their gifts. “My!” Nula exclaims, “These truly are the most wonderful gems I have ever seen! It will be hard to choose a winner between you both.” “And what do you bring dear gentle Kazkan?” Nula asks as Kazkan stays in the background trying not to be noticed. “Well..” sheepishly he starts looking at his empty hands, crestfallen he has no gift to give her, when suddenly an idea comes to him, “Well..” he takes hold of her hands, “ I give you me! I give you my heart, my body and my soul. There is nothing more I can give you.” He says. Nula smiles a warm smile, “That is all I ever wanted from one of you,” and she hugs him with love. Kazkan and Nula marry the very next day and live happily… ever… after."

Pos sits with Kas and the rest and over a beer listens to stories told and discusses old times with Kas.

Mitra sits quietly and listens to the story, claping at the end "Oh that is a good story Eve. Does anyone else know any?" She looks round hopeful that more stories will be told.

Pos thinks to himself that he's not that good at telling interesting stories, although he does know a guy who trained in the ways of the bard who could spin a tale or two in the Lonely Miner. He listens to the story with interest and continues to enjoy his drinks and wonders if Kas will do an all nighter drinking sesssion again.

Kaksa listens enraptured. His spoon sits halfway between his plate and mouth; his mouth open with food pushed forward a little by his tongue. Absently, he closes it and swallows, his eyes large and round as he listens; childlike. After Evelyn finishes her story, he pounds the table with a flat hand. "Oy............Oy............Oy, the misses is a teller", he says loudly. Other miners had stopped to listen too. Their tables quiet down during the telling with all the men eating more politely and heads turned to Evelyn. The other two tables also join in the listening. Those with their backs to the group swiveled a bit to look while they listened. Indeed, Evelyn the Good was fetching. A good looker in any place, but this was not about leering. Although, the content of her story and the fact that a beautiful woman told it did have an affect. But, honestly, the miners simply liked a good yarn of thread. Its what makes us, especially in difficult times, continue. Kaska looks across the table at a older miner. "Reminds me of my Ili'a. Aye Joss." "True," Joss says. "I remember your marriage day. Damn fine day twas that. Damn fine Kaska." Kaska rises from his seat and grabs a pitcher of beer from the middle of the table. Raising it up, he offers a toast. "To Ili'a. To Nula. To the women that we mine for and give our lives purpose." Miners raise mugs or tankards to the air. "To Ili'a," they say. Kaksa sits, a little bit extra leaving his lips. "May she rest." Miners, as do all who toil, keep company. In shared hardship, people can choose to suffer and fragment or hold together. As the meal is mostly done, a number of miners pull the large table to make a U shaped form. Beer is brought out and the tellings begin. Miners take turns in inside the U facing the tables and entertain their friends. Young men are goaded forward at times. This rite of community a passage, another moment of growth. Damek the Chief Miner stands and steps up to tell a tale. Before he starts, Kaska yells out. "Tell us of city folk and the hunting deep." Damek lips thin a bit and his face is flat, but it is Kaska doing the asking even if the little nudge he gives Evelyn is hard to miss. Other miners yell out also. "City Folk." Damek raises an open hand. "Don't know much 'bout city folk. But I do know The Door," he says. Apparently, news of what the band of city folk sought is hard to keep among such a small community. "So," he begins. "The Door of Korenove." ((Damek will finish his story. But this is chance to RP. Miners are curious. They trade info like any other and they treat you with friendship given the Kaska brought you in.))

Tathza ate his fill in silence and stayed out of the way. He was still thinking of many things and did not need people or drinks to cloud his thoughts. He half listened to the story and saw the road it was taking before it was half way thru. Tathza prefered stories with a twist or made you think in different ways. He kept listen to see if he could pick anything up and when the big man spoke of the door and the man in charge was going to explain more Tathza listened all the more carefully. Any information on the door or this group that had come thru here would be useful.

Evelyn smiles as the miner's react to her story positively, she had not expected so many of the miners to take interest in her story and blushes a little, as many eyes turn on her as she continues with her story, realizing she musn't make a mistake in its telling. The story she had adapted from a tale, she had once read about three princes, the original story was different in many other aspects, the three princes had learned to work together, where her three brothers did not, they had sought different items that had found use at the end of the tale, her tale, she had tried to mould, as she told it, to fit better their current situation and Kaska. Evelyn was not a learned story teller but one that came from her relationship with Mitra, When Evelyn had first met Mitra, a captive in her windowless cell, Evelyn had tried relating to her what occurred in the outside world but got a better response from Mitra when Evelyn had exaggerated her information more into tales. And so the story telling had began, Every day when the dungeon was less used, Evelyn had stole herself to meet with this mysterious girl and had entertained her with stories she made up as she went along. The more exaggerated, the better. Although she made many mistakes, Mitra would never seem to notice, perhaps more out of kindness and constantly encouraged her to tell her a new tale. When the miners begin their own tales, Evelyn finds herself enraptured in their telling, clapping or praising at the right time, soaking up their tales, asking Kaska questions about a part of the tale she doesn't understand, so that she might use the basis of one in a future tale for Mitra or anyone else who would desire to listen to one. When it is Damek's turn to stand and Kaska nudges her friendly in the ribs, she joins in with the miners cheers for the tale of 'city folk and the door' and watches on with great interest as the 'tale of the door' unfolds.

Damek clears his throat, collecting his thoughts, thinking on the tale he wished to tell. "The Ancients mined long before we did. They cut tunnels round and smooth unlike like our chipping attempts. Deep and true they went, lit by some source. That art was lost with them, but it is told that a great king of theirs dipped deeper into the land. Down his men delved into the deep black for ore and jewels, sparkling crystals and pure metal. Stone so hard it shattered steal and they made into blade and edge." The miners listen. Quiet. "In the deep, this king's men came upon the Black Door, or Niger Ianua as they called it, a freestanding pitch black rectangle of stone, polished, or so it seemed, to shine like the stars. The Ancients knew all manner of magics and cut the door from the floor to carry it to their king. He placed it in his Great Hall and there is stood. Centuries passed and the history of the Niger Ianua lapsed, for even the Ancients were slaves of memory. It waited. Listened and watched." "Then amid luxury and wealth, disillusionment grew and Everto Veneficus was born. The wizard studied the Niger Ianua. Probed it with his mind and hands. Caressed it with his bleak thoughts until it divulged the key. It was the Gate of Souls leading to the way point between life and death where Vecher hands out the Tributum Obduco. A place of transition. A place of change. The place in which we prepare for the Long Journey." The miners nod in agreement. This was the Door of Korenove, or at least the part they had heard through living. They turned back to the old miner thinking his story finished, but he continued, adding something they had not heard before. This was partly due to the fact that stories of the door were bleak tellings and not usually done. But Kaska had asked and Damek acquiesced. "Everto Veneficus raged and was unsatisfied. Evil was his aim and destruction his goal. So he bent his the power to the door, perverting it. His will shifting its allegiance and passage, fooling the gods. Bloody hands he raised to it performing the Oris Ritus, Opening Rite, and into Chaos the door swung. From the opening spilled Comtemno, Abominor, Subuingo, and all their brethren. Across the land of the Ancients they raged and few were left living by the time the door was closed by Filia Transitus. And the age of Ancients ended for evil of undue inquisition." Damek finishes. The party listens. Damek's last sentence was meant for them. True, it had a point of teaching as such old stories usually did, but his meaning was much more contemporary.

Tathza let out a groan in his mind. He knew it, leave it to some fool to probe such things better left alone. He knew the priestess would catch on to the fact that it had a connection to her god and maybe that could be used if things did not go his way. You would think that humans would learn from the past, more so when it destroyed a race far greater then them. Tathza also wondered if that door was still corrupted and if so then it could be opened again if found, perhapse even triggered.

Pos nods in agreement, and thinks it a fitting warning to not to mess to much with things beyond ones understanding.

She looked stary eyed at the miner who had spoken, her jaw slack "Wooo, so this door actually exists, and some group decided to go looking for it in the mines. I wonder if they will find it?" she squeezes Eve's hand.

The tellings go on for some time, but not too late. The miners still have work to do, They don't drink heavily this night, but enjoy each others company none the less. Kaska finishes his beer and figures its time to get some rest. "Your welcome ta stay, you are, but most be goin ta sleep soon. I'll walk ya back and see you don't get lost if ya want to come with me." Kaska says his good nights, shaking hands and thumping miner on the back. He'll leave with you when your ready.

Evelyn listens to Damek's tale with great interest, transfixed to his words. When he mentions her god, her heart misses a beat and her eyes widen in awe. She hears his ending words and its significance puts a shadow across her heart, an anger swells within her, [i:3u434oq5]'Everto Veneficus!' [/i:3u434oq5], she would not forget that name. That any person could of perverted such a holy relic [i:3u434oq5]'to her god!' [/i:3u434oq5] for their own biding was despicable and deserved eternal damnation. 'what were his motives for such perversion? was it greed or to gain power above what was rightfully his?, she wondered, she would tell them a tale before this night was finished, she decided, a tale of greed and although she will layer humour at its end she would make sure her message is clear and the folly of such a sin known. When Damek returns to his seat, Evelyn squeezes Mitra's hand in response, then lets go, sliding from her chair and moves to sit down to sit by Damek. "Excuse my forwardness sir, my name is Evelyn and there is much I would like to know of your tale, if I may ask?" she says softly to him, smiling, "May I?". (If he says yes) She asks him about all the names he has used in his tale, their backgrounds and other tales they may be involved in, that she doesnt know already about. (dont have knowledge history, yet so thinking not so much). [if he does know about them you dont need to post here - the information can be left for another time if knowing about the people in the tale becomes relevant.) at the end of their conversation, Evelyn lowers her voice and asks, "Looking for such an artifact, is a worry to me and I would like to ask you more of the group who seek it. Is there anything you can tell me about them? is there anything that could help to understand more about what their intentions were, who they were and what they were about?" After their conversation she thanks him once again, smiles and excuses herself so she can take the floor one last time as the night draws to a close. Standing in the centre of the U-shaped area, all eyes upon her, she clears her throat and tells her tale, EDIT: it is worth noting Evelyns symbol to Vecer is plain to see around her neck - she does not hide her faith. (sorry got bored last night so got a bit carried away- have split the tale into several posts incase there may be a word limit?)

Timov was an unhappy man. Though he had a loving wife, he always wanted more. He saw the rich people in the town with their luxurious homes and clothes and he wanted what they had, with the belief that wealth bought happiness. After a night in the tavern, where he had moaned all night about the lack of gold and his belief he deserved more, he made his way home when he met a thin man in the street. The man wore a long dark brown jacket of velvet matching his long thin face. “Greetings,” the thin man said to Timov, “I heard your woes and wish to help you, by offering you, your dream.” Timov was naturally intrigued and asked the man to explain himself. The thin man reached into his velvet jacket and produced three gold coins, “This is a magical jacket,” the man explained, “Every time you reach into its pocket you can take out more gold. Timov’s eyes widen with greed, “What do you want for such a prize!” he exclaimed. “If you have children, then your first born, you will give to me,” the thin man answered, “as payment for this jacket.” Well, Timov knew his wife to be sterile, so secretly smiled when he answered, “It’s a deal!” So the thin man removed his jacket and handed it to Timov. Timov pulled on the velvet jacket and placed his hand in its pocket. Sure enough he pulled out three gold pieces. Happy beyond belief, he left the thin man without so much as a goodbye and returned to the tavern where he bought drinks for all. As the drinking tab grew, he simply reached into his pocket and threw three more gold pieces onto the bar to the astonishment of the crowd. “Gods!” exclaimed Brno, the barman, “it seems your luck has changed for the better!” Timov beamed, never more happier till now and placed more gold on the bar till all were drunk and merry….

….Timov returned to his wife and when he showed her his magical jacket, she was astounded beyond belief. He took her hand and walked to the largest home in the town and said to the owner “I am here to buy your home!” The man took one look at Timov and rather undignified replied, “Its not for sale and if it was, I believe you could not afford such a place.” “Name your price!” Timov demanded, “For everything can be bought at the right amount.” “Very well,” the snobbish man replied, “10,000 gold pieces and not a copper less!” So Timov reached into his jacket and pulled out three gold, dropping it to the floor, then he reached in again and pulled out three more, and three more and three more! Till a huge pile of gold taller than the snobbish man, lay before him, much to the man’s amazement. Timov said nothing to the man and entered his new home. A year later Timov never felt more happier, least not that a miracle had occurred. His wife had given birth to a handsome son. But on the third night of his son’s birth there was a knock on the door and when Timov opened it he saw the thin man once again. “I come for my payment, “the thin man demanded, and pointed at the child much to the horror of his wife. “No!” cried Timov, “take back this jacket, I have all I want now.” “The jacket is yours,” sneered the thin man, “Just as this child is now mine.” And before Timov could slam the door shut, the thin man had the baby in his arms. With a cold laugh he whirled in a circle three times and shot down into the earth in a burst of flames. Timov’s wife was heart broken and when Timov explained the reason why they had lost, their only son, her sorrow turned to anger. She threw him out of their home and flung the jacket in his face. “I hope you and your gold will be happy!” she wailed and slammed the door in his face…..

……. Crestfallen, Timov wandered the streets, leaving the town behind, lost in sorrow. On the road, a band of men rode up to him and a tall man, leaped down from his horse, pushing Timov, into the dirt. “We know your secret!” the bandit leader exclaimed, “And now what was yours is now mine!” and with that the bandit leader pulled the jacket from Timov’s back and thrust him back to the ground, to leave him to dwell on his loss. As the rain poured down, Timov did not move, depressed and at loss he let the puddles swell around him as the water filled his lungs, he allowed life to slip away. He opened his eyes to find he stood alone on a shore. Mist all around his ankles, a large dark lake, the size of a sea in front of him. A solitary boat, in the shape of a skiff, approached him silently. It’s oarsman gently glided it toward him. The boatman was tall, covered in a cloak that shimmered and moved to an unfelt breeze, its cowl hiding its face yet Timov knew who he faced. “WHY DO YOU WISH TO TRAVEL WITH THEE?”, Vecer demanded. “YOU HAVE NO COIN AND NO REASON TO BE HERE, EXCEPT OF YOUR OWN MAKING” “I have lost my son and my wife and all for a belief that wealth would bring me happiness!” Timov wailed. “UNDERSTANDING YOUR ERROR, BRINGS A CHANGE OF PERSPECTIVE. A CHANGE OF PERSPECTIVE, OFFERS HOPE TO ANSWERS NOT SEEN BEFORE. IT ALLOWS US A SECOND CHANCE, A SECOND THROW OF THE DICE IN THE GAME OF LIFE, Vecer stated. “AND THUS I SHALL GIVE YOU YOUR SECOND CHANCE, AS INSTRUCTED BY YOUR GOD. GO TO THE WORLD’S END AND YOU WILL FIND A CAVE. AT THE CAVE’S END, KNOCK ON ITS WALL THREE TIMES AND CHANCE WILL SAVE WHAT WAS LOST”……

……Timov woke once more on the road and travelled to the ends of the world. There he found the cave and knocked on its wall three times. ‘RAP RAP RAP’ The wall glowed and a door of flame appeared. Biting down his fear, Timov stepped through and entered. All around him was rock that glowed red, the air was stifling from an unbearable heat, screams in the distance could be heard and dark shadows flitted from rock outcrop to another, watching Timov’s progress as he entered the main chamber. Stepping into the main chamber he saw a tall thin devil, with eyes of the man who had given him the velvet jacket and he realised the extent of his folly. The devil was surprised to see Timov and demanded his business or be slain on the spot. Timov demanded the return of his son but naturally the devil refused. Then Timov remembered the words of Vecer ‘chance will save what was lost,’…’chance’...’a game!’ Emboldened Timov demanded the devil play a game with him, the stakes, his soul for the child’s. The devil intrigued and not able to resist games agreed, “Very well,” the devil sneered with a malicious smile, “we shall play a game of choice, choose correctly and your son will be free to leave. Do you accept these terms?” Timov, unsuspecting agreed and the devil, lead him to another room, circular in shape. In its centre was a huge scale, each arm ending in a cage of gold. Below each cage was a magical flame that burned with an unnatural colour. To Timov’s horror he saw his baby son in one cage and his wife in another. “Your wife swore her soul to me in exchange to see her son again,” the devil sneered, “naturally I obliged and now she sees him quite well don’t you think?” Timov is angered but before he can respond, the devil continued, “The cages hang above eternal damnation, take whomever you want but the other is doomed to be my slave forever.” “This is no game!” Timov demanded, “Where is the chance in this!” “Oh we already did that,” gloated the devil, “your ‘chance’ was observing the words I used in the explanation of my terms. Your time is up, Timov, make your choice and live with it! His wife looked at him with pleading eyes, “Save our son!” she cried, “choose him!”……

…..Timov thought on it for a moment then an idea occured to him. He leapt into the cage holding his son and lowerd him to the floor before the cage touched the flame of damnation. Calling to his wife he shouted, “Take our son home, this was all my fault and I will pay the price gladly.” His wife uncertain at first stepped down and took the baby in to her arms. “Bah!” snorted the devil, “You are pathetic and weak and shall rue your choice for eternity. Go!” he shouted to the wife, “Before I change my mind and find reason for you to stay!” The woman looked to her husband and smiled a ‘thank you’ before turning and leaving the cave. As she left, she heared her husband sing in a happy voice, [i:1b8jcfnb]Tim-oh-vey! I danced with the devil to better my life. Tim-oh-vey! It cost me my son and I lost my wife. Tim-oh-vey! Vecer helped me to see, gave me a chance to find my way. Tim-oh-vey! Now my son and wife are free, and I shall be happy every day![/i:1b8jcfnb] A thousand and one nights later, Timov’s wife is settling her child to sleep when a door of flame appears in the middle of the room. In walked the devil, dragging Timov by the scruff of his neck. “There!” screamed the devil, “take him back! For a thousand and one days and nights I have endured this man’s happiness, no matter what torture I devise he will not stop singing!” “I cannot take this any more!” the devil wails, “It is I who should inflict pain, not the other way around!” And with that the devil disappeared never to see Timov again. So Timov sold the big house and moved into something much more modest and while they were never rich in gold, for they gave most away from the sale to those who needed it more, they were happy and content and lived long lives in modest comfort. And what happened to the devil’s jacket you ask? Well the bandit leader did not hold onto it for long. For with greed, grows evil thoughts and his two captains slew him in his sleep to gain such a rich prize for themselves. One not trusting the other they argued over who should wear it and it was torn in two during the fight, its magic fading to nothing. But this tale is not ended for the devil still goes around from tavern to tavern, listening to men’s desires so that he can entrap their souls. So should a thin man ever offer you something too good to be true, simply hum Timov’s song or sing it if you dare and if it is the devil you speak too, he will run from you screaming, holding his head, disappearing in a burst of flames, saving you from an eternity of damnation. As Evelyn tells her tale she puts enphasis on her words, she tries to make different sounding voices for her characters to keep the mood of the tale light. It has several jovial parts so she acts them out, reaching into a pocket and throwing her hand to the ground in acting of the tale. She sings Timov's song and there is a mischievous glint in her eyes when her tale is done. When Evelyn finally finishes, she smiles and gives a small bow and walks back to her seat. As the night draws to its end she says to the group, "Am I right to assume we sleep here tonight? shall we discuss our plans in our room?"

Damek finishes his story and finds Kaska. Putting a hand on the big man's shoulder, he gives it a squeeze and sits. Kaska finds an empty glass and fills it by half to give to Damek, but instead of using the fresh pitcher on the table, he uses the beer in his own glass. These two, older men both, have been sitting together for long years. "Did not tell 'bout the walk," Kaska says sipping his beer. Damek smiles and looks at those of the party that are sitting around. His face is closed and his eyes intent, but the voice he uses to talk with Kaska is lighter than what shows in his eyes. Kaska, sitting next to him, would have difficulty seeing the difference. "Some stories best left alone," Damek says. "Their ours aye Kaska of the Swimming River." A mock laugh for Kaska's sake ending the sentence. Kaska nearly spits his beer out and hits the table a few times in his own laughter, beer spraying in little droplets this way and that. Kaska gets up to enter the Telling spot. He has to wait a bit as there is another speaking his a tale of the Spring Maiden. In the interval, Damek answers Evelyn's questions. "The Miner and I have been here and there. A bit before he earned that name. I followed him here out of friendship, but I didn't always dig deep," he says tapping his chest. There is a thin chain around his neck, but it hangs loose instead of taut as one would expect if it was weighed by a amulet or symbol. "Everto Veneficus was the Demon's Wizard or was a demon in wizard's clothes. Hard to know really. One story casts him as a woman and the other as not. When she is flesh and blood, she is often a disciple of Erisenyo who wishes to make her God triumphant and bring Order to ruination. I've heard or read that for Everto to accomplish this task, Erisenyo intervened at the time of her natural death and gave her life without her paying the Tributum Obduco. But she had passed the Korenove's Door and knew its secrets. This enabled her to pervert it for Erisenyo's desire. Contemno, Abominor, and Subuingo are Erisenyo's generals, born of hate and malice, destruction and subjugation." Damek pauses to take a drink, considering his next words. "Fili'a Transitus was Vecer's servant charged with collecting Everto's Tributum Obduco and setting the world right. I've heard that Vecer minded less the Change in the world than the perverting of the Door and the subverting of the Right of his domain by Erisenyo. But all this is conjecture for priests and fools aye." The subject changes without a pause. Damek's voice stays even as Kaska takes the front. "He's important to us and we'd nuthin happen nor tolerate any who endanger him," he says around his teeth while joining in the applause for Kaska. "He's paid his price."

The stories are starting to go over Pos's head a little but still he enjoys the company of those around and it's good to drink with Kas. He thinks perhaps this group are a good bunch and he feels happy he's with them, or is that the drink making him feel that way he thinks to himself. He think's even the half drow is not so bad, a bit rude sometimes but perhaps just honest and matter of fact but perhaps ok deep down.

Kaska takes the front, two miner's picks in his hands. He looks out into the faces he sees and keeps their eyes with his. He begins to twirl the picks, at first slow, then incrementally faster. The picks become a blur and Kaska begins to juggle them in increasingly difficult patterns, ever faster, ever the more dangerous. He keeps his eyes forward. And then, suddenly, they stop. Freeze by his side as if they've never moved. Kaska smiles and the miners rise to their feet applauding. But instead of leaving the Telling spot as the miners expect, he stays and a murmuring quiet comes over the room. It would seem the Miner has a story of his own, something uncommon at best. "Was at the Door I was when the mountain was crushin us," Kaska says. "Refused to leave'em see and let go holding their hands, those two boys that were my Newlings. So they brought me with them and we stood before'it. I could see my Ili'a waiting and a tall man in robes with her. Them boys went through it and I held on but the Door wouldn't let me in and I would not let go." As Kaska continues, he changes some. His speech a bit more clear and correct. The tempo of it more learned. He seems to stand straighter, making him even more of a giant as he begins his telling. "And the robed man comes, ya see, and he says [i:3ctqtm07]Let them go Kaska[/i:3ctqtm07]. [i:3ctqtm07]No[/i:3ctqtm07], I answer him and he repeated his want. And I said [i:3ctqtm07]No[/i:3ctqtm07] again. [i:3ctqtm07]These Newlings are mine[/i:3ctqtm07], I told him. The robed man then took his staff and out from the Door it came to push me off, but I held on, my arms through the portal. Then he began hitting me with it and still I held. Them boys pulling trying to get me through the Door." "Finally the man quit and I said to him, [i:3ctqtm07]Not even Ol'Vecer could break this hold. If you take them, you bring me too.[/i:3ctqtm07] Ili'a was there, you see, and it mattered not to me to leave life. But my woman has a way about her and she walked past the robed man and spoke to me through the Door. [i:3ctqtm07]Let them go[/i:3ctqtm07], she says. [i:3ctqtm07]It is time to let them go. This moment is theirs not yours.[/i:3ctqtm07] But I'm stubborn and it had been long since I heard her voice, so I refused my Ili'a for want to be with her." "Ili'a smiled then. [i:3ctqtm07]This is my price Kaska. For all the time between when I left you, all those days between, I waited to see you once more. This is my fee, convincing you to live on. Fail me and I will never cross. You've other Newlings to tend.[/i:3ctqtm07]" Kaska pauses a moment. In all his telling, he kept his eyes down looking at his feet. He has never told this story. In the end, he brings them up and looks to the miners as if for redemption. "So, I let them Newlings go." Finishing, Kaska looses the part of his old self that had been rekindled in his telling and a wan somewhat empty smile returns. ((Kaska is ready to collect the party and walk them to their barracks when ready. I was uncertain if you all would talk plans here or there, as mentioned.))

"You mention in your tale, Evelyn asks Damek, "That the door was moved to the great hall of the king. Was it therefore returned to this mountain by Fili'a Transitus or other, or is the ancient great hall under this mountain?" "I apologize if it seems a silly question, I just want to be clear of the facts," Evelyn adds. Evelyn also asks, "Do you have a postal method to the city? If I were wanting to send a letter there, is there a way to send it from here?" "I can pay of course," she adds. [Evelyn is ready to go to barracks so will follow group.]

Damek shrugs at Evelyn's questions. "Don't know were the Door ended. Myth has it that it was swallowed by the land in the tumult of the chaos its opening brought on the Ancients and lost again in the Deep. Alot of folk hunt for things thought lost in the dark at the Cliff or old mines. These city folk do the same. Only met the one with papers as the others keep to themselves the night for they entered the mine." Thinking more on it, Damek figures keeping others secrets is not worth the trouble. "The man wore an amulet I had not seen before. Three nested black circles. Crude sort of thing. Like it was made from burnt wood or something else. He put it back in his shirt when he noticed I had seen it. He was not the sort to answer questions, if you know what I mean. Had a spark in him. A flicker of power. But it has been a long time since I've said prayers." Damek tells her he can send the letter with the next wagons of ore due out tomorrow. Cost just a copper or more depending on the urgency. He's got a cousin, Reil, that's a mail rider. He can get it somewhere faster, but such service costs more.

Evelyn glances at Tathza as Damek mentions the amulet to see if he registers the significance of what this meant. "Thank you Sir," she answers him, "You have been of great help." Evelyn turns to face Tathza and asks, "Do you have any ink I can borrow and a quill to write with?" "I have parchment but not the funds to buy nice ink."

Tathza had heard the description and it sounded like the consortium's assassins. Maybe a wizard or spellcaster of some sort along with them. This could not be ignored, at the very least they may be able to find out why they had assassins with their same symbol after them. If the consortium was interested in this then it deserved looking into. From the look of things and what has been said the priestess would not be hard pressed to go into the mine and Zin could be conviced with little effort. Tathza allowed himself a small smile. This group was worth tracking down and speaking with or if they choose to be foolish, worth destroying and capturing. Tathza hears the priestess words and gives her a look "I have no ink but you may have this, I would expect repayment when you are able." Tathza gives her the needed gold for ink and quill.

Evelyn looks at the coins and returns them to Tathza's hand closing her hands around his and the gold. "Thank you Tathza," she smiles, "But I have no place to purchase them here." She is slightly taken back by his generosity,[i:17cuwc8h] 'perhaps I've misjudged him'[/i:17cuwc8h] she thinks to herself. She turns to Damek and asks, " I feel like I'm pushing my luck with your kindness but might you have ink and a pen I can borrow?" "I can pay for its usage." she says softly.

Mitra's eyes were heavy and she yawned and tugged on Eve's sleave "You can use my pencil if you want, but do you think we could go to bed as my legs are achy and.." She yawns "All the stories have been a bit to exciting." She rests her head on Eve's shoulder and tries to make herself comfortable as the conversation continues.

Eventually, Kaska escorts them back to the barracks they have chosen. It is a dark night and thick as if before rain. At the door to the barracks, Kaska stops to see them in. "I sleep in the billeting office if'n you need something. Come get me when yur ready in the mornin and I'll guide you to the stairs." Kaska shuffles his feet a bit and looks up. "No stars," he says with a little wonder in his voice. "Odd that. Can't see a one." ((Kaska will go to his bed unless held by RP. Please post earlier issues if you want. The night is still relatively young, two hours or so before the middle.))

X lights his lantern and does a walk around the building, looking for a back door and checking any windows, he attempts to secure any wherever he finds them and then takes up a bunk closest to the main door hunkering down in his studded leather, trying to get comfortable and waiting for everyone to get settled.

Zinnaella follows the group around, remaining quiet and trying to gather what information she could from the tales and comments made. As the group makes their way into the barracks, she takes a corner bed and prepares for rest, keeping her armor on this time - just in case.

Upon hearing Damek not knowing the final resting place of the door, Evelyn turns to Kaska, "In your tale you mentioned you were at the door when the mountain was crushing you, did you mean the door to the afterlife figure of speaking or did you mean the actual door of Korenove?" Evelyn thanks Mitra for the use of her pencil. After their conversations end, Evelyn follows the group back to the barracks, her arm around Mitra who is heavy with tiredness. She looks up at Kaska's comment and says softly, "What should change does not and what shouldn't, changes like a forbidden omen. These are troubling times Kaska and I pray to Vecer that change is returned to what should be and always has been." She bids him goodnight and thanks him on behalf of the group, for his hospitality and enters the barracks. Entering the barracks she sees Zinnaella take a bunk in the corner so takes the two bunks next to her, throwing down her pack on the one nearest. The bunks look a little small as can be expected for such affairs so moves Mitra's closer to hers (if she can) so atleast they can be close. Once the group are settled she gathers them together and speaks to them in a hushed whisper. "You have all heard the tales and what has been said and no doubt know of its significance." Evelyn begins. "While we do not know for sure, The Consortium seek the Gate of Souls, there is a great belief in the miner's in this place, to think it truth." "If it is true, then we need to consider our next step on what, if anything, we should do about it." "We search for a stolen necklace, taken by a group of bandits, whom we seek in order to obtain its return. To the lion's den we walk with no idea how many lions there are or how big and we have nothing to barter for the necklace even if we chose a less savoury route." "Much can be said about the other group who venture into the under dark." "There are many considerations before we divert ourselves from our original course but would like to know what the group's feelings are on this matter. Time is short and not on our side so we must make our decision promptly and stick with it." "While Im not saying we should seek the door or the party, for we do not know if that is their true objective, nor even if their intention is good or ill, but it is likely which ever path we choose to take we will lessen our chances of the success with the other and so must accept the consequence of our decision." she looks to the group, eyeing them individually, waiting for a response.

Pos stays up a bit later than perhaps he should talking to Kaska, but then realises he does have a mission tomorrow and eventually goes to bed too.

Evelyn watches Postavicka get into bed, [i:mvft0uqz] 'he probably thinks he is just the guide and this decision should be left to us,'[/i:mvft0uqz] she thinks "Postavicka," Evelyn calls to him, "While I understand your role here, I would value your thoughts on this matter, should you wish to give it." Evelyn turns to Val'anthis, "what do you think Val? should we divert from our quest?" her eyes fixed on his for a moment before she turns to Mitra, "Mitra dear your thoughts are often more perceptive than my own, what do you think we should do? Continue on to find the ugly princess's necklace or seek answers at a door that may not be sought but if it is could have a much higher impact on all our lives and lead to much bigger things than one's own vanity."

Val enters the room and decides to take a bed a little farther away in order to have some privacy. When he notices Eve signs, he sits down next to her. "Well, I'm quite intrigued by that door. We don't know alot about either of our choices, but right now our quest seems less important." Val continues. "As you perhaps already know, Miss Evelyn and I have been seeing some visions during the last nights and it's quite probable that they are connected with the door. Of course I understand if you would prefer countinue on our quest but I feel that our gods are leading us to the mystical door." He takes Eve's hand. "And so I will follow you to the dark mines even if the others decide to go on !"

She was tired, the stories the concentration, and now a big discussion, she sighed, and an unearthly calm took over her body her voice became even and measured, her eyes no longer shined with the innocense of a child but more the cold look of certainity, a deathly certainity. She held up one hand palm to the ceiling "Who's to say which is the more important. On the one hand you have maybe one spy that is uncommonly careless with his circle symbol and certainly anyone that has a piece of jewelary instead of the well hidden tattoos is careless, that may think this "Door to the Underworld" is some where round here, they went into the mines maybe a day or so ago and they didn't take a miner as a guide so they obviously either know where they are going or have a better idea than we as to what they are looking for." She takes a breath and holds up her other hand. "On the other hand we have already been paid up front for a task, and even through it is for vanity and I think the woman is ugly, who is to say that from the fruits of her loins the saviour of this world or greatest general will be born. The problem is there are to many variables, it's always best to work with what you know then what you don't know." She takes a measure of the packs the companions have brought with them. "We do not have the supplies for a long trip into the crushing darkness. We do not know the location or direction of the door or the other party and we probably cannot track them. We also don't know the power of those that walk before us so how are we to prepare incase the worst happens? The choice is not difficult the only thing that is making it difficult is people's belief that we can change something, that we have no control over." She looks to the elf "I also don't think it is a good idea to split or numbers, if we decide to continue for the Riders or to look for this door, then we all go. Even Evelyn can understand that to split our numbers would spell certain doom for both groups." She leveled her gaze at the group. "Do you understand?"

"Mitra is right," Evelyn says to Val, "as a healer I would never abandon the group for a personal quest, or force it to split up its resources when all is needed." She squeezes his hand and says softly, "But I thank you for your kind words and their intention meant is known to me." she smiles at him. She turns to Mitra," As always your perceptive words are most welcome. I wont try to lessen them, for although we could perhaps take more supplies and perhaps find a guide (dont know if Kaska knows way to door or not yet) we are still left with a duty bound to find the necklace, so will accept the decision of this group. But I cannot ignore the possibility that an artifact [i:15ev2de4]'belonging to my god' [/i:15ev2de4]is being sought, so will take other measures, if we decide to continue on for the necklace."

She smiles at Evelyn sweetly "Of course I would expect nothing less from you Evelyn, as long as it does not hinder which ever decision we make." she stretches her arms out andbends her hands backwards and forwards, then takes a relaxed position with her back against the bed.

Evelyn notices the change in Mitra's voice, a cold shiver runs down her spine and she releases her hand gently from Val's, a worried expression on her face. She smiles back at Mitra, with uncertainty and rests her hands on her lap, her eyes glance to Zinnaella momentarily then falls back to the group in general.

"Well, we don't know the power of the riders either." Val notices that Eve takes her hand back. "... But if miss Evelyn wants to continue our quest I suppose it's settled"

"I have not said which quest we should continue just yet," Evelyn smiles at Val, "But instead trying to lay down the facts and encouraging others to do the same, so that we can make the right choice in our current situation." "And while I may have a natural bent towards one, I shall go with the party's decision, not my own."

Mitra feels slightly bored by the whole thing, it was impossible to decide so someone would have to make the choice she could only place the information out and hope that someone would make a choice. He eyes lolled, "Whatever we decide, we decide as a majority, Evelyn, myself and you Val, have but one vote each, why not see what the others have to say, they might have information of there own, before thinking the decision is set in stone."

As the conversation progresses, Evelyn turns to Zinnaella and says, "may I have a word with you [i:3dukqn1z]'in private' [/i:3dukqn1z] once this conversation is ended?" [if agree will pm]

X listens and busies himself with securing the main door, if there's some built in method to secure it, like a lock or beam of wood then he uses that; otherwise he stacks two piles of copper coins infront of it flush against the door. X waits for the initial discussions to finish and then says "I agree with Mitra in the sense that we have already committed ourselves, it's not even a decision for me, it's already been made"

Evelyn listens to Xerxes words and says nothing, waiting for the rest of the group to make up their minds. She had suspected he might have said something on those lines from what she had learned of him. He was a good man, honour bound and good to have in their group. She knew common sense told her to carry on looking for the necklace no matter how slim the chance was now of finding it. If the riders had identified the necklace and found its only value was to the Mayor's daughter, for no other could use it, they may already be on their way back to Belfor with a ransom demand. she chuckles to herself at the possible irony of such a situation and imagines herself and the others walking into an empty bandit camp. Seeking the door would be foolhardy in their current position, with little supplies, adventuring experience and no guide to show them there, but she couldnt shrug off the niggle she was meant to look for it. As if the knowledge of its existence had been a sign from her god. [i:2xcidli8]'why did it have to be Vecer's door!' [/i:2xcidli8]she thinks to herself,[i:2xcidli8] 'why could it not of been someone else's god and let them worry about it!'[/i:2xcidli8] she chastises herself for the selfish thought, realising that is not how life should be. It is not about happy coincidences and simple paths and happy endings like in the tales she loves to weave, life is much more complex than that, forever twisting, forever changing paths and the sooner she accepts that, she decides, the sooner she will see more clearly, the sooner she will grow up.

As Xerxis is checking the door to the barracks, he hears someone skulking close to it. At the opening at the bottom of the door, he sees the shadow of feet. Someone is trying to be quiet, but Xerxis is so close to the door that their attempts are in vane. Whoever it is settles outside just to the right of the door. There is another door at the other end of the barracks.

Tathza takes a seat in the corner with a wall to his back. He listens to all of it. "I disagree about leaving the door behind, we know nothing of the rider's and that necklace is worthless to anyone but that girl so it is simple to say that whoever took it knew of what would happen. Anyways their are plenty of ways to get around her little problem as its not a great one. But if the door is found then history has already told us the price to be paid. Even if the door is not found and this group is then we could gain information as to ourselves and the reason for why we are attacked. I for one will be going after them as our little quest seems to have been more then what was agreed to and I intend to find out why." Tathza had no intention of leaving his quest for the necklace undone but one did not put a single minor item over the world and such great destruction. The other long lived races remained yet the humans time and again find destruction at their own hands. They wondered why that was.

Zinnaella nods at Evelyn's request for a talk later and then returns her attention to the discussion over the topic at hand. "Tathza, you're assuming that just because this group has the same association as our attackers that they know why we were attacked. Yet, they arrived here before the attack at the inn, which means they left Prejete long before we ever arrived there. There is no reason to assume they know anything about the attack, but less the reason behind it. True, they *might* know, as there is a connection between the two. I just find it hard to believe." Zinnaella shrugs as she looks at everyone else. "So, two people feel we should go after the necklace," she nods to Mitra and Xerxes, "and are set on following through with the original quest we were given." She then looks to Eveyln and Tathza, "And two prefer the door, but only one of them insists on heading there - even if it splits the group apart, which as many have pointed out is a very bad idea." Zinnaella studies the group for a moment, unsure which danger she herself would rather walk into at this moment, but also trying to figure some way to give the group the best chance as a whole. [i:mr3ms7e5]Damn you Tathza, you had to go and put your foot down after others did the same, but for the opposite job. Now, someone has to give in or we split the group.[/i:mr3ms7e5] "Tathza, the Mayor said that you had aided him many times in the past. Yet, you would turn your back on him now when he needs your help?" "And Xerxes, I know that your agreement to finish the quest for the necklace. But we do have some time to finish it, as the wedding is still well over a month and a half away." "I personally can see reasons to finish either job and potential dangers with them both as well." She looks to those that haven't spoken up yet. "Any other thoughts?"

Tathza gives Zin a rather bored look. "I have no intention of leaving my mission undone as I gave my word. I will complete it but as we seem to be followed everywhere we go not only will this side trek give us a chance to find out information about our enemies but also mislead or give some trouble to those that chase us. They may get lost in the underdark or killed by its creatures and who knows we may even find a less known way to get to our location. The underdark has many connections, but even if we do have to return here then we have lost a few days as to what could be gained. It is not always a bad thing to make strange moves when your enemies are watching or following. Who knows maybe if we circle around we could ambush our would be ambushers and capture one. Staying on one course with out other options is a fools way and leads only to trouble. After all if our enemies have any idea of the area they know full well that the quickest way is up those narrow stairs which would be ripe for ambush but I would think they are not prepared to stay for a long period of time. Their are countless explainations for etheir road but I have already stated my own thoughts and would hope that my word would not be questioned." Tathza gave Zin a hard look with that last statement. He did not like being questioned on what he agreed to. Drow would betray with ease but they did keep their word if only to the barebones of it.

[quote="OmniChaos":w272exmy]"As I said I have no intention of leaving my mission undone.... I have already stated my own thoughts and would hope that my word would not be questioned."[/quote:w272exmy] Zinnaella nods, "Sorry, I must have missed you saying that you would not stop looking for the necklace. I just heard your decision to go after the door regardless of what everyone else wanted to do or even planned to do. If we were to make a different route to confuse any pursuers, that gives us another option to consider. It just seemed that we were about to be stuck with two opposing viewpoints that seemed unlikely to move, so I was trying to prevent the collision before it happened."

X freezes when he notices the presence outside, he steps over to his bunk and gingerly lifts his shield and starts strapping to his arm while turning to the group and in a loud clear voice says as calmly as possible "everything's checked, we're just as secure here as were were last night" X then points to Zin and then points to his eyes and points to the back door hoping he gets his point across, then he points to the door infront of him and points to himself and then ever so slowly starts drawing his sword as quietly as possible. ((I don't know if there's a roll applicable for pantomiming, let me know))

Val is surprised by X statement. As he looks up to him he understands that they aren't alone and readies an arrow. He whispers a small prayer to himself, "[i:2xksroj7]Eclair notre voie nocturne[/i:2xksroj7]" , and the whole group feels ready for combat. [Val casts bless: +1 to attack rolls]

Tathza notices the warriors reaction and words. He brings up his hand in a calming gusture so that they dont over react but slowly rises and nods to show he is ready with a spell if needed. Tathza feels the elf's magic wash over him and feels slightly more able. He also thinks that their recent attacks have made them over careful by wasting magic so early before the threat has been confirmed. But he thanked the gods that they finally seemed to learn from their past mistakes or at least somewhat.

X nods at the others readiness and waits at his door, waiting for Zin to confirm if there are any others around back. Once he gets confirmation from her he will quickly open the door and find out if perhaps their spy is a nosy friend or another assassin.

As the group quiets, the listener edges close to the door. The shadow of their feet returning to along the door edge.

Seeing his opportunity to catch them off-guard X throws open the door hoping to trip up and/or scare whoever's outside. [i:3fq8v9rf]probably just one of the miners, but the second rule of staying alive is never underestimating an opponent...[/i:3fq8v9rf]

Zinnaella moves to the back door silently (MS), and listens (L) at it for a moment to check for any company. If she hears nothing, she cracks the door open and peers out. As long as the coast appears clear at first, she opens it more and takes a better look, studying all the shadows and trying to peer deep into them for hidden attackers (S) If no one is around, she exits and moves around the corner towards the front of the building, sticking to the shadows as best she can (H) as she tries to make no sound either (MS#2). She pulls out a small mirror and uses it to look around the corner to the front of the building, checking on how many visitors they have. {{Move silently, listen, spot, move silently and hide rolls, in that order.))[dice:4q9yn2ka]1d20+9,1d20,1d20+5,1d20+9,1d20+9[/dice:4q9yn2ka]

Zinnaella peers out the other door as it seems to be safe. Edging around the building, she takes up position on the corner. Creaping out her mirror, she looks around the corner and sees a large figure tumble into the barracks as Xerxis abruptly yanks open the door. "Oy, oy. Jus me. Jus me," the large figure shouts scrambling to his feet with open hands out front. Kaska looks sheepish, fearing he's about to get a sword in his belly. "Jus me," he says more quietly, head down looking at his toes. "Afraid you'd leave ol'Kaska topside and try an follow them city folk at night. I knows the mine like the lines on my face. Did no want friends of Vicka to get inta trouble and go it alone. Newlings all ya see. Meant no harm. No harm see." Kaska kicks a small rock across the floor of the barracks and scratches his head.

Tathza nearly slaps his hand to his head. But he gives a half smile instead. "Well come on in and make yourself at home. Why dont we all have a nice talk. Do make sure to knock next time as you can see the results of those that do not announce themselves." Tathza takes his seat once more.

She smiles at the huge buffon "Well we are actually just deciding if it is any of our business to go looking in the mine or underdark." She hasn't moved an inch since the party got all excited about the person on the outside of the barracks. "So far we haven't decided yet but we were just getting to the interesting part of the discussion." she says with a smile and a wink.

Pos sit's up, raises an eyebrow, "Underdark, eh, don't mess with that".

Kaska shuffles over to where Mitra is sitting and slides down the floor to sit next to her. He gives Mitra a meak smile and listens.

X sheaths his sword and takes a good hard look around outside before securing the door behind Zin (assuming she shows herself and comes in that way otherwise just secures it after looking around). X pulls out a waterskin and sits on his bunk near the door listening to the discussion.

Zinnaela quickly moves up, following the figure in - her hand resting on her rapier, although it remains sheathed. As Kaska speaks, she slips into the barracks and returns to her spot, to see which way the conversation goes.

((I am somewhat unsure as to the final outcome if any has been reached. It would seem the party favors pursuing the necklace as opposed to taking a detour, or the wavering is in that direction. Mayor Zname did not actually say, I Iooked, that Tathza and Zinn are in charge of the mission nor was one openly declared. Someone must take a show of hands or words of accent. Please openly state your vote if those agree to abide by Evelyn the Good's remarks of doing it by majority decision.)) ((Edit #1: OOC Discussion Vote is 4:2 which means, unless I am mistaken, that pursuing the necklace will win either way. If there is no other resolution posted by morning tomorrow, I'll assume you have Kaska take you to the stairs on morning light.))

She hoped they were making the right decision and not one they would rue later, no matter she found it hard to hide the disappointment in her eyes. Despite the common sense, logic and honour of continuing on for the necklace, she still felt she was letting her god down, knowing of something that might have a major impact on the world[i:2wxz9z2v] 'if it is true' [/i:2wxz9z2v]and not being able to do anything about it,[i:2wxz9z2v] 'don't worry there will be another way.'[/i:2wxz9z2v] "Very well," Evelyn says trying to finish the argument, "It seems most wish to go in search for the necklace, so unless someone says otherwise, to finding the necklace we shall go." After the conversation ends and people settle for their sleep, Evelyn walks to her pack on the bed then makes a sign to Zinnaella and they walk outside. Returning later, Evelyn kneels by her bed and takes out two rolls of parchment from within her cloak and ties some thick black thread around them. Lighting a black candle, she drops some wax on to their join and presses the lower part of her holy symbol into the soft wax to fashion a seal. Satisfied she returns the items to her pack and settles on her bed to sleep. She follows Zinnaella's lead and stays fully clothed incase they are attacked, but removes her chainmail shirt, not wanting to be fatigued the next day. As she hears the sounds of her companions slowly drifting into sleep, she makes a silent prayer to her god, that she is given a second chance, if they have missed their first.

[b:3t7pmsj8]Serpen 22 of the Union Year 997[/b:3t7pmsj8] Kaska rises early, packing provisions for the long walk up the stairs to the plateau above. He packs enough for two lunches, not that the climb would need such, but to offer his friends the rest for the road ahead. His pack is large and heavy, but nothing his broad shoulders can not handle. He finds the party ready and bids them good morning. "Long climb we 'ave. Up, up, up," he says, knowing that he'll have to make the climb down and it'll likely take him the rest of the day. Kaska leads them into the mine. The sun is barely risen and already the air burns of heat. The entrance of the mine is huge, towering over the party heads. A cathedral sized openly greats them with cooler air out of the sun's rays. It smells good to be in the mine. Kaska takes a deep breathe and pauses, a bright smile on his face. This is his home. As a short detour, Kaska takes them to the Warren. Here the mine's tunnels coalesce in a dizzying array of openings. In the dimness, it is hard to count how many, but some could try. There would be no hope in finding one's way without a map or guide even though the openings are labeled with various wooden placards, some worn with age and others newly painted. Kaska turns his back on the tunnels dejectedly and heads the party to the foot of the stairs. He'd not go deep this day. As soon as the party start up the stairs, it is obvious these were not cut by miners from Prejete. The are smooth and even, well placed and exceptional, easy to walk. Window slits have been carved into the rock of the cliff and the stairs are easily traversed in shaded light. Whoever built these stairs were master craftsmen of stone. Up and up the party climbs. Every thirty meters the stairs open into a wide circle with stone benches. Here the windows are more numerous, but built such that blinding direct light has been avoided and one can look out over the land below. The party climbs. The stairs, spanning some 1500 meters, is an arduous climb. It takes most of the morning to make the summit. Kaska recommends in his way that everyone eat small amounts and drink with each rest, even if they claim not to be hungry or thirsty. Refusal gets either an out of character barbed word from him or a long questioning look. The views from the windows and the summit of the stairs is breath taking despite the heat. As if you were giants upon the land. You are at the head of the stairs. A dirt rail leads away from the Cliff and into low hills covered with dry brown grasses. ((I posted a little early seeing Omni's post of agreement OOC and knowing the time difference b/t east coast U.S. and others.))

Tathza was not happy about what they had wished to do but he went along with it. He would remember it well, nothing was missed by Tathza. He was hungry for another battle, someone to vent his anger on and a chance to allow this clever little group to fend for itself with out him. Tathza felt that he was not being given his proper respect and a lesson was in order. Yes why not, after all he had learned to survive alone why not give them a taste of the kind of treatment that drow recieved all their lives. Tathza soon found himself smiling dispite the hard climb.

Zinnaella packed her gear well, placing one of the poison daggers in her hidden sheath and the gift from Miro she placed in plain view on her belt near her rapier. The other poison dagger she places into her pack for now, carefully wrapped. She also places a couple other daggers around in easy access, determined to not be caught unprepared again. Hefting her pack onto her back, she follows Kaska's lead. As he leads them into the cover of the caves, Zinnaella relaxes a little, letting the shade rejuvenate her mind and spirit. She pauses for a moment caught up in the feeling, but then quickly catches up and continues with the group. As they ascend the stairs, she follows Kaska's advice and takes a bite of two of the food and a couple sips of water at each rest. As they emerged from the top of the stairs, she shielded her eyes for a moment as her eyes adjusted to the bright light once again. Once they do, she quickly scans the area as everyone gets situated.

Evelyn wakes in the early hours of predawn. As the company sleep or are waking, she performs her prayers and welcomes the change brought from the light of dawn. Before the party sets out, she finds Damek (assuming she finds him ok) and says, "I have two letters I would like Reil to take for me," she hands him the first scroll, "This is for a man named Brother Linel of the church of Vecer in Prejete. And this one," she hands the next, " Is for a dwarf named Miro, from a tavern called 'The lonely Miner' also in Prejete. I have marked Linel's scroll with an 'L' so it is easier to distinguish the two." She hands him the necessary payment (two coppers?), "Thank you sir, for your offer of this service," she adds softly. She joins the group and smiles to Mitra, "I hope you rested well?" As the group gather, Evelyn finds herself standing near the front next to Kaska. She has limited knowledge of mines and a desire to find out more. As he guides them through the warrens, she asks him a barrage of questions of how it all works and 'what is this for?' Realizing her over eagerness she laughs saying ,"Iam probably stretching your patience thin with all these questions!" As they make their progress up the stairs, she welcomes the rests. She has little strength and the climb makes pain appear in parts of the legs she didnt realize she could hurt. As they break she finds herself constantly rubbing her ankles to loosen them up. When they reach the top, the pain in her legs diminish and she is awed by the sight, "It's beautiful!' escapes her lips.

She sat up all night, in the darkness with her pencil set and her notepad. She scribbled bits and pieces and finally settled into drawing, she drew several pictures some of people some of places, they were all accurate to what had happened as her memory was picture perfect. She got bored after a while and slide her pencils and pad back into her satchel. She unsheathed her dagger that had a hidden sheath on the back of her satchel. She admired it's simplicity, the tip as sharp as always, the grip was designed to fit her hand perfectly. She thought back to a tavern what seemed like a hazy dream. A young woman was sat in front of her entertaining her with her knife trick. Mitra smirked one day she would get her to teach her that trick. She sheathed the dagger and checked the straps to make sure it was secure, then she continued her vigil over the slumbering company. When the sun rose she watched as Evelyn and the others went about there daily ritual, Mitra had not such ritual she was always ready when the sun rose. She sliped her satchel over her head and then her backpack on her back. Most of the items in the pack were for others she knew the other personnas wanted to be friendly and that is why it made this easier, people looked at her like she was a young child or a simpleton and thus she could get away with... well she would see this time. As Evelyn joined the group again and looked at her she smiled back and said "Very well, thank you." she was about to move on then stopped and looked at Evelyn again "I know you wanted to go and find that party and the door since it is linked to your faith here, but it would most likely have led to disaster." As the party started there trip up the steps she got bored of hearing Evelyn ask pointless questions it was not important how the mine worked and what everything did. She drifted further and further back till she was the last going up the steps. the others would think she was merely getting tired but in actual fact her limbs didn't hurt at all she had shut her mind off from the pain so she could consentrate on the cool, damp darkness before they eventually got out in the depressive heat again. As they stopped every now and then she had to swollow food and water even through she wasn't hungry as the giant of man would have suspected something was wrong if she hadn't heeded his advise like the others were. When they eventually got out into the bright light the others seemed stunned by the beauty of the scene from the top of the cliffs, so she thought it apt to stand back from them take out her pencil set and notepad. She tried to memorise the scene so she could draw it later and also she started to pencil on the notepad the different positions of the party and the features in the background. Autohypnosis Roll [dice:248memga] 1d20+4.5 [/dice:248memga] ((Picture Perfect with Canon ))

To Mitra's remark outside the mine, Evelyn responds with, "Thank you Mitra, you are right of course, I pray we shall have another chance, should more information come to light as a result of our decision." "Oh!" she adds bringing out Mitra's black pencil, "Thank you for the loan, I'm sorry it is a little blunt but im sure you will be able to sharpen it ok? I didnt want to try, as I'm not good with knives." The suggestion brings Mitra's knife to her mind,[i:2flhxsh9] 'that knife!'[/i:2flhxsh9], she shudders at the memory but says nothing. Smiling back at Mitra albeit with a little uncertainty, she walks back to the group.

She smiles coyly at Evelyn "Don't play games you might regret little fishy." She pulls out a pocket knife and starts to sharpening the pencil, she blows gently on the tip and fine graphite dust flies from the pencil, her eyes keeping contact with Evelyn's so that she knows who it is and who is in charge. Once done she slides the pen knife into her satchel and slips the pencil into its metal case. She smiles broadly and walks back to the companions with Evelyn.

X takes up the back and follows along softly whistling to himself, routinely checking the path behind them, but then soon giving up as the maze of tunnels doesn't provide any sort of view most of the time farther than the last bend. At one point Mitra drifts back and past him and he offers her a lime, but doesn't say anything.

Pos leading the group shortly into their journey turns around and says to the group "We can reach Gila Strom, the White Tree, by late afternoon where we could camp there if you like. From there if we travel on we could get half way to the first Old Mine by nightfall."

Before the party say their farewells to Kaska. Evelyn walks up to him and says softly, "Thank you Kaska, thank you for your hospitality and for getting us safely to the top of the stairs. I enjoyed you and your men's tales last night and I hope there is an opportunity to meet again upon our return, should we return this way." she smiles. Stepping closer, she lowers her tone saying, "I do not know if your Ili'a, has crossed over or still waits and I did not want to pry and ask questions about your tale for fear in upsetting you. But I wanted to say that I am a priestess of Vecer, so if she does still wait for you, on the shore, I will add Ili'a to my prayers that Vecer might keep her safe while she waits to meet with you again." Evelyn gives Kaska a respectful bow and allows the others to say their goodbyes should they wish too.

Kaska looks at Evelyn's face listening to her words. When the priestess of Vecer mentions his Ili'a, he looks at his feet, shuffling a bit. "My woman has crossed," he says to the ground. "I didn't fail her at the Door." Raising his eyes to meet her, Kaska smiles. It is a broad smile, full of pleasure. "But you've found a way to this ol' mine of a heart I have. Keep a light on and your nose to fresh air. Travel safe Vecer's Chosen." Kaska watches them depart from the overlook. He doesn't wave, but he doesn't turn to head back down the stairs until he looses view of them. Then he hikes his pack on and considers the land beneath him once more before starting the descent. There are things to be done. Things to be done.

Tathza takes a look around the area. They were headed to a tree from what the gnome said. Tathza wondered about it all. Knowledge (arcana) [dice:2h5ym7av]1d20+9[/dice:2h5ym7av] Knowledge (local) [dice:2h5ym7av]1d20+6[/dice:2h5ym7av] Knowledge (religion) [dice:2h5ym7av]1d20+5[/dice:2h5ym7av] Knowledge (geography) [dice:2h5ym7av]1d20+5[/dice:2h5ym7av] Knowledge (history) [dice:2h5ym7av]1d20+5[/dice:2h5ym7av]

Through small hills and valleys the party marches. The land is dry, brown grasses that have encroached on the trail crunch under the soles of one's boots. Little thorny seeds attach themselves to the pants of the characters as they walk, hitching a ride to try and spread their offspring. Picking these seeds off is a delicate affair and a few coarse words are muttered when the seeds fight back diving thin needles into the flesh under the skin. Little wheals of blood blossoming on everyone's fingertips. The sky takes an unnatural hue, deep and ominous. Thick clouds coalesce on the horizon and attempt to blight the sun's reach. The temperature begins to drop and for a time it feels good after weeks of oppressive heat. The wind strengthens, at first a minor breeze that tangles and teases hair, but then stronger throwing dust and fiber into the air. The weather seems on the verge of an abrupt change. [attachment=1:23jgdjzl]roadtotree.jpg[/attachment:23jgdjzl] Postavicka discusses the party's options for travel, either stop at the White Tree in the late afternoon or continuing on to plan a camp somewhere in the open between the Tree and the First Old Mine. Each has probable benefits, although the First Old Mine will be reached either way tomorrow, either late afternoon with camping at the Tree or mid-day if the group opts to forge ahead and camp in the open. The Tree is the only real landmark between the Cliff and the First New Mine. As they party discuss options, they eventually come in sight of Gila Strom. The White Tree is an impressive site, a massive stretch of bare limbs reaching for the sky. Predominantly white, it shines in sunlight dimmed by deepening clouds. Just before it, about 90 meters or so, the narrow dirt path cut into the short grasses parts, one arm going north-west and the other north-east. At the meeting point of the three paths, some meters out toward the tree, sits an odd article. It is hard to tell from the path as the item is about the size of a little bird cage, but it looks like a small house set up on four legs. [b:23jgdjzl]Gila Strom[/b:23jgdjzl] [attachment=0:23jgdjzl]greattree3.jpg[/attachment:23jgdjzl] To Tathza: You know portions of the information posted under Notable Landmarks regarding the tree. Specifically, you know that foolish youths sometimes visit the tree for rites of manhood. You also know local beliefs regarding Ježibaba and the Tree, although there is no Drow equivalent of Ježibaba. The rest you do not know.

[i:22afjm87]'Ouch!' [/i:22afjm87] Evelyn says, as she pulls yet another thorny seed from her dress. She keeps to the front of the party alongside Postavicka who leads them, through this strange land. Every now and then she glances back at Mitra, who lingers at the back and gives her a short smile, before turning her attention ahead. "Is this normal for this region?" Evelyn asks Postavicka, glancing to the sky. She lowers her veil to protect her face from the wind whirled dust. She notes the weather's promise of change and this at least lightens her heart. When Posta discusses the tree, she considers their options. "Well the tree may provide us with cover should this weather change for the worse and reaching the old mine at dusk tommorow, as the shadows grow long, may provide us with a certain cover from any onlookers there." "Apart from perhaps a few hours of daylight lost searching the outside of the old mines, it seems better to me to camp at the tree?" "What do you all think?" As they spy the small house or bird cage, Evelyn looks to Postavicka, to see if he knows of it. (rolling a religion check in connection with Ježibaba as you mentioned worshipers - although not a god im guessing but more of a folklore thing wondering if there could be a religious connection for roll?) [dice:22afjm87] 20+5 [/dice:22afjm87] [i:22afjm87](-ah nevermind)[/i:22afjm87]

[i:33urnge5]Above ground, at least.[/i:33urnge5] Val seems more relaxed now than he was in the mine, and the seeds don't bother him. As they approach Gila storm, he is quite surprised. "[i:33urnge5]Une pousse de l'Arbre Vie[/i:33urnge5]", he mutters. ((Knowlegde nature check to see if he knows something about the tree, follwed by a spot check to see if he can identify the item)) [dice:33urnge5]20+5[/dice:33urnge5] [dice:33urnge5]20+2[/dice:33urnge5]

Mitra takes the fruit from Xerses and looks it over, "Thanks." She sinks her teeth into the fruit and as the juice spurts out she clamps her mouth over the hole and starts to suck gently. After a short while she breaks the seal and slurps the moisture off her lips. "So how are you doing then X? You keep quiet, what do you think of our quests so far?" she licks the side of the lime as some of the juice starts to dribble out of the holes, she then smiles innocently at the man and bats her eye lashes.

Pos says to Eve 'Yes I think it could be storm perhaps, the weather can be quite severe this high up, we could do with some rain, thats fer sure'

giving Mitra a half-smile X responds with "I'm fine, thanks, things at sea are a lot simpler, you're busy with work most of the day and the rest of the time you're either sleeping or your eyes are on the horizon or the weather, but here things just keep getting more complicated every day, I'm looking forward to getting some answers. how are you?"

She smiles back at him "I'm good, thanks for asking. I did think we were suddenly going to go off on a tangent and end up lost under the earth. I agree the door is important but blindly wondering around the underdark would not have solved anything. Thank you for agreeing to stay above ground." She sucks on the lime again keeping her eyes innocently on X. "So you use to be a sailor, do you mind if I ask why you left that profession?" she instantly regrets asking "Of course if it's personnal then please forgive me I just wish to know more about you." her cheeks blush.

"Well what do you suppose that is?" Evelyn gestures to the little object infront of the tree. "Should we approach it with caution, or stay clear of it?" she asks.

To Val: It looks like a little house on stilts or legs of sorts. Made of wood, you think. You are still, I supposed on the road, so the items size make more discovery difficult. You don't spot anything in its area worrisome. To Evelyn: You would know about Jezibaba, but not really her supposed relationship with the tree. Should Tathza share his knowledge, it is possible that you'd remember more, but at the moment you're left empty.

To Evelyn "I have no idea, suppose we shall find out"

Tathza remembers stories and legends about this tree. Well no need to tell them anything, after all they dont seem to value my input so why bother. Let them learn things for themselves, why should I share my knowledge with those that do not value me. Tathza kept silent thru out the trip but kept alert and had Aknma taste the wind from time to time. Tathza was thankful that the weather had led up somewhat but he would not be too happy about a storm that would end up soaking him to the bone. At least in the lightless depths you did not have to worry about the weather changing.

"Well then," Evelyn shrugs, "I guess there is only way to find out." So she walks toward the tree, the little house on stilts, getting closer.

Val turns to Evelyn, "Yup, it looks like some sort of habitation. It don't see anything hostile so far."

Evelyn turns to Val, "My feelings also," "But I guess it wouldn't hurt to be prepared if it is.", she adds, checking her mace, attached to her pack.

Evelyn the Good walks toward the tree. With each step, the tree becomes larger and larger until it seems to take up all the space between her and the horizon despite having meters left to be close enough to touch it. At two meters from the little house, Evelyn notices little hoping bugs of various sorts fleeing her approach in the grass. She is sure they were not always about wasn't she? All manner of crickets, beetles, and bugs of the grasses hop, crawl, or make short flights away from her feet. There is a small bare area, somewhat circular, around the little house. Evelyn has to stoop over to look at it. It is made of wood of all sorts seemed scavenged and put together. The little house is about as long, deep, and tall and the length of one's hand. It has a little peaked roof shingled by the same little thorny seeds that everyone has been picking from their legs all day. Whoever made the little house put no windows or doors on it, either cut into or inferred by decoration. Most odd are the stilts the house sits on. Four dried petrified legs of some sort of large bird of prey support the house like macabre pillars. Talons clutch the dirt in what would have been the birds final attempt to hold onto life. Encircling each 'ankle' of these supporting legs and feet are weaves of thorns like those a rose bush makes to fend off predators of her flowers and leaves. Closer inspection reveals other peculiar details. The sides of the house and roof has small long scars in the wood in a haphazard arrangement. Tiny areas of blackened soot mar the roof. And, the wood smells green despite that it has been long from alive and appears very dry.

Tathza kept to the back and watched the actions of the priestess with little interest or so he seemed. The house was strange and could not be simply made as it appeared. Knowledge (arcana) [dice:3vkrcnoc]1d20+9[/dice:3vkrcnoc] Knowledge (history) [dice:3vkrcnoc]1d20+5[/dice:3vkrcnoc] (the knowledge checks are for the house, dice from hell -.-)

Tathza considers and thinks, searching for bits of information in his head. It is elusive and he can think of nothing new in the realms of arcana or history that add light to the origin of the little windowless, doorless house.

Evelyn regards the little house with great interest. She doesnt touch the house or get too close for fear of accidently breaking it. She crouches down to get a better view then looks up to Tathza who she sees, hanging back and says, "Is this magical?" Realising her presence has probably already alerted the resident if there is one and not wanting to seem rude, rather naively she calls to the little home, "Hello, is anyone home?", her cheeks redden realising she probably looks very stupid right now.

Evelyn calls to the house. She smells a summer glade, spring flowers, and the mist of a waterfall. So faint as to be ridiculous. It is gone before she can chide herself for foolishness.

Tathza looks at the priestess and wonders if she notices her position. "I do not seem to recall anything of this house, if it is magical or old I can not say" Knowledge (local) [dice:13wp9bm4]1d20+6[/dice:13wp9bm4] (last chance to find out something >.<, why do i even bother)

She tries to detect the direction of the smell, and leans a little closer to the house to see if the smell originates from there. When it disappears, she looks confused, uncertain what to do next. She had assumed the house to be merely a structure and that a resident might be inside but maybe... [i:3sk2frlu]'..maybe the house is what im talking too?[/i:3sk2frlu]' she thinks to herself. "Hello...little house?" she calls softly again, incase her interaction with it caused the release of the smell.

Val scans the little object, hoping to find some answers to his questions. ((Spot & know nature concerning that little house)) [dice:1iecff37]20+2[/dice:1iecff37] [dice:1iecff37]20+5[/dice:1iecff37]

Evelyn continues to try an commune with the house. She is absorbed in the process. Val looks at her. Many little bugs have crawled onto her fingers and wrist. Little beetles post on the joints of her digits all pointing their head to the house as if watching. These small tickling vermin attain a spot of vantage and then stop moving. All in all, there are probably over 20 or so bugs motionless on Evelyn the Good. The house does not answer her. And it is quiet.

Val looks at Eveleyn and notices the bugs. "Ehm, Eve... are you using a spell or what are all those insects ?"

Evelyn breaks her focus on the house, "Bugs? what bugs?," she glances at her hands, "Oh! I don't know how that happened," she remarks. Noticing how all the bugs face the house, she doesnt brush them off, which had been her first instinct. Instead she looks at both bugs and the house, to see if something will happen. "If these bugs are poisonous or deadly in anyway," she whispers to Val, knowing he knows more about nature than her, "you will let me know wont you."

The bugs watch Evelyn and she them. Or so it may seem. Waiting for other to do something. Nothing happens. Both remain exactly as they are. More bugs join the audience. Little ants make still lines in the dirt, pieces of debris held up in their unmoving jaws. As if everything has come a stop. From the corner of her vision, Evelyn sees a small purple butterfly glide toward her. It lands on her hand. The butterfly is hazy and Evelyn can see through it like a fogged pane of glass. It flutters ragged and torn wings, closing them tight and then vanishes. One moment there and the next not.

Tathza saw a strange butterfly move towards the priestess and moved forward to get a better look. Spot [dice:clltj4od]1d20[/dice:clltj4od] (I wont post any knowledge checks unless i saw it)

Tathza steps closer to Evelyn the Good. He notices the congregation of bugs and briefly the faint purple, petite butterfly. His viewpoint is obscured by Evelyn's back and he does not see the butterfly disappear after it alights on Evelyn's hand.

Tathza takes a step back and forgets the strange butterfly. It was nothing too interesting he suposes. He makes his way to the back of the group again. After all he was not keen on being to close to things he knew little about. Being careful was a good way to stay alive in his mind, let the foolish with illusions of bravery and glory find their graves quickly if only to bring the blessed silence.

A giant black beetle lumbers under Evelyn's crouched body, around her feet and the toes of her boots. It pushes others insects into the dirt so their legs spread flat beneath their bodies from the weight of the black beetle. It swivels when it reaches the edge of the house and faces Evelyn, alone among bugs that dare go so close. Gnarled protrusions grow on its head like antlers on a buck, formidable pincers among the community of the small. Its large elytras spreading wide as if in warning, the membranous wings beneath them flat against its rough exoskeleton as the beetle begins to rub the elytras together creating a staccato click and rasp. The clicking wavers in loudness like waves rolling in on a beach with an incoming tide or war drums of an army on the march. Then the beetle marches out toward Evelyn. It stops and turn backs toward the little house like the other insects, folding its elytras down, horns lowered.

Tathza see's the actions of this latest beetle and takes another step back without drawing to much attention. These were not normal insects and that was plain to see. Knowledge (arcana) [dice:2bqb6y2q]1d20+9[/dice:2bqb6y2q] Knowledge (history) [dice:2bqb6y2q]1d20+5[/dice:2bqb6y2q] Knowledge (local) [dice:2bqb6y2q]1d20+6[/dice:2bqb6y2q] Knowledge (religion) [dice:2bqb6y2q]1d20+5[/dice:2bqb6y2q] Knowledge (the planes) [dice:2bqb6y2q]1d20+6[/dice:2bqb6y2q] (I used the planes because these may not be normal for the current plane, FINALLY some half decent results)

Tathza knows the following but such remains unspoken. 1. The bugs are definitely not acting normal and are not usually thought of as having coordinated intelligence. Reason would argue they are under the influence of magic. 2. Jezibaba is also thought to live in a giant house with legs for pillars that walk from location to location. She flies from the house with no doors and windows on a barrel to hunt for children to eat. The little house would appear to be an construction made taking into account this portion of the myth. 3. Tathza has heard local myths, including ones of Jezibaba. They do not include references of Jezibaba inhabiting a house with legs as indicated in #2. That idea must be from another locality. 4. There is no connection between Jezibaba and insects or insect control.

Tathza remembers some stories about the witch and this house but some of the information is counter to each other and so it is hard to understand which may be truth or just folklore. The insects have magic about them of this he is sure and takes another careful step back. As far as he knew the witch had nothing to do with insects and so she may not have a hand in this if she even exist for that matter. Something was going on here and even if he did not know what it was he had no intention of being off guard. He had Aknma take a deep breath and he took a careful look around himself. He wondered what was about. What was influencing those insects. Most pressing of all was what it meant for them.

Pos takes a peak inside but after looking in decides it's better to stay outside.

"Is that beetle "kneeling" down ?" Val asks astonished, "never saw something like that." "Perhaps that little house is the palast of their queen or something, but even so I doubt that this is a natural phenomenon." He suddenly turns to Tathza. "As a master of the arcane can you sense any magic animating this vermin ?"

Mitra chuckled at the idiocy of the situation. She walked forward pushing past the others and bent at the waist to be next to Evelyn's ear and whispered "I'm no expert but that looks kind of like a shrine to me, or maybe some form of druidic ritual area." She looks at the bugs, who look back "and I would guess by the insects that they are not to happy with you being so close to it." she kisses her ear "Do be careful." She stands and walks to the back of the party brushing past the half-drow. She keeps an eye out on the lands around them rather than focusing on the dinky little house, she also looks up at the collosal white tree, she feels uneasy under it's branches.

Evelyn watches the scene unfold with a mixture of uncertainty and excitement. The others had not voiced any protests yet off her actions, so perhaps they too wanted to see how the scene would unfold. She watched the purple butterfly, fly then disappear, in awe, not noticing at first the large black beetle, that seemed to have an authoritve air about it. [i:2duqht69]"Tathza, there is magic afoot, that butterfly just disappeared!.."[/i:2duqht69] she begins with a whisper then notices he has wandered away again, perhaps in boredom. She shakes her head with disappointment. For her, life was about new experiences and living to the full. She did not know how long she had in this world and suspected her foolish wanting of new experiences would end it shorter, but she'd rather die young, living a full life, than an old and empty one. She is about to address those who stand near with a similar question when Mitra walks up and whispers her thoughts into Eve's ear. She wondered too if that was true. [i:2duqht69] 'Could it be a shrine?'[/i:2duqht69] (knowledge religion on house) [dice:2duqht69] 20+5 [/dice:2duqht69] Wishing to show due respect, if it is a shrine, she takes a single step away from the house. Carefully and slowly so as not to shake the bugs on her body or tread on one underfoot. "I step back with respect" she whispers softly. She doesnt expect the bugs to understand her but would rather announce her intentions than move without cause.

Tathza looked at Val and the actions of Mitra "Why not ask the little secret keeper. She seems to have all the answers or maybe just for her friend and no one else. I have nothing to say on this matter or any other at this time. I have not been your guide sense we left Prejete and so you should look to the gnome or another for such matters." Tathza had grown tired of these fools. If they wished to meddle in things better left alone and keep their secrets then so be it. They would get no more aid from him. Let them fend for themselves as he had always done. Tathza wished to move on and finish this mission to be done with it all.

She chuckles loudly and smiles broadly turning to the Half-Drow "I whispered you fool, becuase if as my thoughts are leading me that the tree is more than just a tree and the wooden house is actually a shrine for druids, you should pay respect. Even if you don't believe in what they believe in it's better not to make enemies." She brushes the hair from her face "They aren't asking you just as a guide, they are asking you because you are a wizard and they are supposedly Intelligent and Knowledgable. Are you Intelligent and Knowledgable? As for your comment about 'secret keeper' we all have secrets but you my dear half-breed have never spoken to me, in fact you have plainly avoided me, if you don't ask then you will never know. Maybe I only keep secrets because I have to but if you showed some compassion and kindness then I would trust you with a few."

Tathza gives her a bored look. "Well as you have not told anyone what you are, and seem so smart who is to say your not a wizard and not ask you. As I said I have nothing to say on the matter and I am not bound to speak as I was before."

She smirks and points to the scroll of shaped bone sticks he carries. "I don't carry a large scroll of spells round, and I don't read it for an hour most mornings. Even Val can appreciate that I'm not a wizard. As for what I am, it's one of those secrets I was telling you about, do you think you have earnt the right for me to tell you and take away the mystery?"

Tathza gives her a blank look and turned away. Such was the way to handle foolish children. Most likely they think that they "won" and leave well enough alone. Mystery breeds misfortune as it was said and for good reason. Tathza cared little for what Mitra was, she was a fool and that was all he needed to know. He would let things fall as they were, let them do without him and rely on the likes of Mitra and Evelyn. One clearly unstable and emotional then the other a weak priestess that nearly meets her god at every battle. Tathza thought if he would give the gnome a chance but quickly thought better of it. The gnome had the arcane running thru his blood he would need no help and he had yet to be tested in battle before Tathza's eyes. Time, that would tell all to him.

Val is surprised to be mentioned by Mitra. "To be honest, I don't really know what you powers are. I know that some people can use magic without studying it. I am one of those." he says quite proud. "I'm not the smartest so I don't really know what you are, but as long as you are valuable in combat it doesn't matter to me where your power comes from." "Both please stop arguing. If this really is a shrine we shouldn't fight in front of it." he whispers to Tathza and Mitra.

Evelyn the Good prepares to step back. Beetles raise their elytra and flying bugs prepare their wings, a whirring sound begins softly and then hardens. The insects attack the little house. As if on cue, the little things move forward in all manner of ways to assualt the structure. Most never make it. When they get within striking distance, these little warriors suddenly turn back and scramble away from the target. Flying bugs dive bomb the sides of the house, careful to steer clear of the roof protected by thorny seeds. They hit the walls and careen off in tangents of wobbling flight. Some slam into the wood and rebound to the ground where they lay dazed, intermittantly buzzing their wings. A few larger bugs initially have success and then the house, or more so its legs, comes alive. The bird leg talons slicing beetles and grasshoppers or batt them away. Alone the large black beetle, a general among little things, remains. It succeeds in grappling a talon and nearly pulling the leg out from under the structure, but the house deftly recovers. The talons cut away one of the beetles elytra, tearing off the gossamer wing beneath it. Defeated the balck beetle hobbles away and collapses between Evelyn and the little house. Its lone elytra opening and closing soundlessly. The little house's bird leg pillars grasp the dirt and move no more. Evelyn feels that if this constructed house is a shrine, it is not one honored by these little creature.

Evelyn freezes as the attack commences. She crouches in awe as the little bugs fly at the house with such ferocity and single minded focus. As the large black beetle 'general' collapses near Evelyn she can't help but carefully pick it up in her hands, like cradling a wounded comrade. Though she took no sides in the fight, she has a natural feeling to protect this beetle, for it seems the house is out of place, not it. She is not attuned to nature but she is to life and death and no matter that its form is tiny and perhaps insignificant to others, it shows an unnatural intelligence, something she can't ignore. She doesnt know why she does it but she whispers the soft chant of a minor spell and positive energy flows into the injured beetle's body. [casts cure minor wounds 0lvl spell 1 hit pt - bit excessive but that's Eve for you.]

Zinnaella followed the group to the tree, watching more for any signs of other people than the path they were taking. She knew those leading would be watching the path, so since she was keeping to the back she was going to make sure nothing came up from behind or from the sides while they travelled. ((Spot check))[dice:9wbma686]1d20+5[/dice:9wbma686] As the group reaches the tree, she notes Evelyn kneeling down over something and a few others crowding around her, but she remains back figuring that if she was needed for whatever they found, someone would let her know. In the meantime, she was going to keep watch for any trouble.

X watches, at first curious, then bored, then aprehensive. he pulls a pint of lamp oil from his pack and prepares his flint and steel. "I don't want to seem insincere, the little bugs have some guts, but after all they are just bugs... maybe we should just burn that little house and carry on" X looks around at the group with a shrug.

"Whether this house deserves to be destroyed, I cannot truly say, but it is magical, or at least alive, and we know nothing of its origin, intention or purpose here," she says softly. Evelyn stands up, still holding the large beetle in her hands and says, "this house is clearly magical or is alive with magical skills for I saw it repel some of the attacking bugs as if they had been willed to do so." She looks to Mitra, Tathza and Postavicka, "Does anyone here have any thoughts on the matter, or can possibly offer a suggestion. It is clearly not welcome here."

Pos raises his eyebrows and says to Evelyn "H'mmm this house well unless we are sure it's a danger then I rekon we should leave it alone. I'm not sure it is dangerous, anyways what's it got to do with our mission h'mmm?"

Evelyn's magic flows through the black beetle. It shudders as life courses downs its chitinous hide. A new elytra grows as does the dark veined translucent wing underneath. The missing horn reforms and the beetle rises from Evelyn's palm in a whir of energy. Bobbing in the less than controlled flight of its kind, the beetle finds Evelyn shoulder and secures purchase in the fabric. It clutches hold and becomes a sentinel for the moment in her company.

"yeah, we don't have to destroy it, I don't care either way, but like Posta said, this doesn't seem to have anything to do with us, we should just go unless you want to setup camp here at the tree and continue tomorrow?"

"Im happy to camp here for the night" Evelyn says, "It would give us more time to work out what this house is for and it's purpose but I understand if you want to move on." "As I mentioned earlier," she adds, "The tree may offer us cover if the weather breaks" she glances at the heavens above, "and will mean we arrive at the old mines at dusk tommorrow, offering us possible cover of our approach."

"I also think we should rest here for tonight." Val adds, "It's should protect us better than if we camp in an open field."

"Well then," Evelyn remarks, "Unless someone has good reason for us not too, let's find someplace to rest around here." "how about over there?" she points to a spot a bit closer to the tree. She begins to walk towards the spot, to see if it a good place to rest.

X nods to Evelyn and Val and walks along after her, pulling a horse with him.

[b:12nj5q3x]Evening, Serpen 22 of the Union Year 997[/b:12nj5q3x] The tree looms above the part as the sun begin to settle. If one inspects it, they find the tree's hide hard as stone and outer layers translucent like fine marble. With a lot of work and effort, a sliver of the tree could be had if one clashes steel on the lower limbs, exposed roots, or huge trunk. The blade would be dull afterward (-2 dmg) and would take two days work to resharpen a usable edge. There are marks here and there of travelers who must have taken a souvenir in the same manner. The party could camp more in the open with thetree close but nothing obscuring their vision in all directions, or camp could be settled in a hollow of one of the many roots converging on the trunk providing full coverage even of a lit fire but more difficult to secure if something were to try and sneak up for nefarious purposes. As Evelyn walks away from the little house on bird leg stilts, the black beetle leaves her shoulder and flies haphazardly into the surrounding low grasses. Its wings buzz and whirl for a time before it takes tot he air as if, in parting, it solemnly bids Evelyn the Good luck. ((I'll put up a map soon. Please settle watches during rp if you set any.))

Pos says "Yes this is a good place to camp, I'll help with first watch if you like".

"I will gladly help with a watch also," Evelyn says, "second watch, when the night is darkest suits me for I can see clearly in the dark."

((I put a quick map for Bila Strom up testing Than's new addition. The lower section is separated by whatever distance you choose to camp away from the little house. Oh and please let me know how fast it loads for you so I can gauge detail.))

Pos looks up at the tree and says "It's magnificent, don't you think, really quite a wonder". So Where exactly do you think we should camp, in the open or in cover of the roots. My vote would be inbetween cover of the roots.

"Yeah, it really is" Val answers to Pos, "elven legends say that it is connected to the [i:2a535ldm]Arbre Vie[/i:2a535ldm], ehm I mean Life Tree." "I too would choose to camp between the roots."

Postavicka and Xerxis admire the Great Tree. The tree rises far above them, a conglomeration of leaf-less pale branches. The knobs of roots protrude from the ground to coalesce upon the main trunk as one gets closer. To reach the trunk, one would have to scramble over these mounds which lay at times three meters off the ground. Walking carefully along a roots leading edge is like walking along a mountain ridge to the massive trunk. The lowest of the free branches of the tree diverge from the trunk about 15 meters above from where one could start climbing. Reaching them is possible, but perilous. To fall and land among the stone hard upturned roots would cause lasting injury or death. There are hollows amid the roots a man sized creature could easily hide within and a nearly flat ledge about 10 meters from the ground creating a half circle on the trunk itself.

"Post, you're the guide, tell me where you want me to setup camp and do you know if there's a water source nearby?" X brings the horses in closer, watching his step amid the strange surroundings.

Zinnaella nods with the planning as she steps up from the rear of the party and the conversation turns to making camp. "In the roots would make it difficult to escape, but also difficult for any attackers to get close. Since these roots are large enough, we should keep the watches outside where they can keep a better eye on things. Then, a shout or a tug or of a rope tied to a waist or something could serve as an alert if trouble arises. As far as watches, I am used to less rest as well, and am willing to take second shift also."

"Perhaps we should make camp here near the start of the tree roots" "I don't think there is a water source that close, but we have provisions right ?"

"yes, we have provisions, but it would be good for the horses. I agree Zin, lets setup camp closer to the roots and plant watches farther out, we can setup a rope as you've suggested. I will take last watch if no one wants it, I'm really tired, so I'll go to sleep early and someone can wake me when it's my go?"

"Well, we had a couple of us taking the second watch - and I'd imagine that two watches could get us through the night just fine. But if you are already tired, I am more than willing to take first watch with Posta." Zinnaella looks around at everyone, running the idea past them all. When she reaches Posta, she gives him a smile. "Not that no one wants to take watch with you of course Posta, I just enjoy the darkness myself. But I'd much rather have a rested warrior on watch than a tired one." She gives Xerxes an understanding nod, as she was simply saying it as she saw it and didn't want to create any more hurt feelings than there already seemed to be in the group currently.

Realising that would probably leave only Val to watch with her, and remembering *this* Mitra's comment at the bottom of the steps. Evelyn pipes up, "Val preferred the first watch from what I remember from our first camped night as a group, something to do with his eyesight." "but if you would rather watch with me Val, that's fine by me," Evelyn adds a little hastily, smiling at him, "and if you would prefer to watch with Postavicka, Zinnaella," she glances at her, "that's fine too..," "Oh nevermind," she smiles, "I mean no offence to anyone, so all of you do what you want. I will take second watch with whomever." and she wanders off, to look at the surrounding landscape.

Val turns to Eve. "You are right, as an elf I can see further than most humans, except when it's pitch black. So I have no problem taking the second watch with you." he smiles politely as he looks her in the eyes. "If you are alright with it." he adds with a grin.

Mitra was bored by a lot of the conversation, she didn't care where they camped if they were within view of this tree then she felt uneasy. She removed a pair of glasses from her sactel and walked up to one of the roots she studied the wood, taping it gently and feeling the texture, it felt strange and she could definately still feel life coursing through it's... for want of a better work veins. She stood and looked at the others who were just starting to get on to the arguement about who would take what watches. She heard Val's comment about second watches, she peered over her lenses at the elf "You do realise that it would be better for you to take the first watch and work till twilight I have a feeling when the sun goes down properly it will be a very dark indeed under the branches of this tree, and not to mention the clouds that are gathering which will obsecure the starlight." She looks at the elf, "Sorry just if the discuss was about the best use of our racial abilities, then yours are best utilised while the light is low but not yet gone." She walks upto E, "Erm... E do you mind if I borrow a knife if you have one?"

Evelyn smiles back at Val and is about to respond when she hears Mitra's words and frowns looking for a hidden meaning. When Mitra walks up to her and asks for a knife, she looks blankly at Mitra, totally confused. "err..sure.." She pulls out her dagger from the sheath at her waist and hands it to Mitra. [i:1ucen0qr] 'what has just happened?' [/i:1ucen0qr]Evelyn thinks to herself. Mitra had changed, again, [i:1ucen0qr]'so soon' [/i:1ucen0qr]but this was a [i:1ucen0qr]'new' [/i:1ucen0qr] Mitra she had never met before. Evelyn smiles, a genuine smile, as she hands the dagger to Mitra. That is what always fascinated her about the mysterious girl. One day she thought she knew everything she needed to know about her and the next, she would be back to square one, as if she knew nothing.

She takes the dagger gently as if her hands had never touched a weapon before, "Thanks E." She gives the woman a distracted smile and goes back to the root, she walks around till she finds a smaller root that starts above the ground but goes down under the earth. She kneels down on a blanket and starts digging the eart away around the root on both sides, then she digs underneath so that the part of the root that is under the earth is exposed to the air, she rubs the dirt off the root as best she can, feeling the texture of the root again. She looks through her satchel and sighs, getting back up she goes back to E "Erm you wouldn't happen to have a device that can cause combustion and an accelerant preferably that burns with a low flame and not much heat would you?" The perplexed looked on E's face says to her that she may have used to much detail in her question "Do you have flint an steel and some lamp oil? maybe a shallow bowl as well would be good as well."

"Um..well I do have a flint and steel," Evelyn replies handing Mitra the item. "But I only have a torch to create a flame, if that's any good?" "Perhaps Xerxes, would have the items you seek," Evelyn suggests, "He has brought a lot of equipment I believe." [if Mitra wanders off] Evelyn gives Zinnaella a perplexed look and then glances at Val and shrugs hers shoulders.

She quietly walks up behind X, while he is busy with the horses and the equipment. She watches as his muscles gleam with sweat from the walk and the humidity of the weather, she bites her lip gently knowing that none of the others can see her still doesn't reasure her that this man makes her act like a child, it was just something about him. She straightened herself and cleared her throat, when he turned to look at her she was placid and calm, even though his eyes were deep enough to lose herself in. "Erm X do you have a little lamp oil and maybe a bowl I can borrow?"

turning to Mitra X says "of course, here's a pint of oil and I don't have a bowl, but you can use my bullseye lantern or maybe this clay tankard would work?" X pauses and looks Mitra directly in the eyes and says very seriously "you can never have too many knives..." [i:1dklr7di]rule number four[/i:1dklr7di] he thinks "please, if you don't have one, take one of mine" X pulls a sheathed dagger from another pack and holds it out to Mitra, taking her hand with his left and placing the dagger in it with his right. "If you would like a lesson in close-quarters dagger fighting just let me know. I'm not assuming you don't know how to use it, I'm just putting the offer on the table, it's one thing to equip someone with a weapon and another thing entirely to equip them with the knowledge to use it and I try to never leave anything half-finished" with that said X gives Mitra a smile, feeling better.

Laiden down with a bottle of oil a lantern she almost dropped it all when he touched her handing her a dagger still in it's sheath. She puts the bottle and the lantern down and admires the sheath, then blushes. [i:xndjlnww]Curses, I feel like such a young girl with a crush.[/i:xndjlnww] she says "Thank you Xerses." she bows in honour of the gift "I will treasure this, and if you would be so kind as to teach a few of the basics tonight when we are on watch together that would be wonderful." [i:xndjlnww]Oh my god, I hope he is okay with being on watch together.[/i:xndjlnww] Her hand lingers and can feel the rough pad of his palm, knowing that it had been used to do a real profession, yet she could feel how delicate his hand could be and it almost sent a shudder down her spine. She swallowed and regained her senses. "I, I guess I better go back to my experiment." She collects the bits and pieces and goes back over to the root trying to make any eye contact with any of the others. She sits back down on the blanket and collects her rope from her bag she cuts a good foot of rope off with E's dagger then uncorks the oil and slips the end of the rope into the bottle she sets it down and cuts another foot length of rope, this one she sets to one side and then waits for the rope in the oil bottle to soak up as much oil as it can hold.

Evelyn leaves Val and Zinnaella to agree on watches and makes her way toward the small house. She sees Mitra talk to Xerxes and considers walking up to her to chat to her but then dismisses the idea. This was a new mitra she had never met before. She had no idea how much she knew, so decided to let the mysterious girl to come to her when she was ready. She finds a nice flat place to sit, still a good distance from the house and sits down cross-legged, sliding the pack of her shoulder. She takes out her black velvet roll and carefully lays it down next to her. Facing the small house, she ponders what its purpose is and considers their options. She can see the sun slowly making its way to its setting, even though partially obscured by the forming storm clouds, but it is too early for her prayers so instead enjoys the moment, watching it slowly slide in the sky. Allowing her the freedom to explore her thoughts, of recent events passed.

"great, I'm looking forward to it" X briefly watches Mitra walk off, a quizzical expression on his face and then continues to busy himself setting camp, whistling to himself quietly. I setup the tent close to the roots to keep it hidden and assemble a small campfire nearby, yet don't light it yet. X walks up to Val and says "hey mate, I wonder if you'd care to lend me a hand, I'd like to see if we can catch something more interesting to eat for dinner and your skills and your bow would be really useful and appreciated if you'd like to come with me?" ((if he says ok then I will make an aid another check to help Val with a survival check to hunt and forage for food, if he declines then I'll go out alone and make a survival check of my own)) [dice:2wcqmpz4]1d20+4[/dice:2wcqmpz4] (edit: thanks for the heads up about Umslo, that's embarrasing...)

When Mitra points out that Val could use his vision better during the first guard he looks at her her, quite surprised. "You are right, but as long as we have a camp fire, I should be able to spot thing easier than an average human." "So, as long as miss Evelyn doesn't wants me to keep the second watch with her, it is settled." Mitra then starts to try doing some experiments involving the White Tree with fire before Val can stop her. "Please stop immidiately!" he yells, "this is an old and holy tree, you can't just try to cut and burn it." X interrupts them and asks for Val's help. "Good idea, let's go hunting." he answers him, "and perhaps you could show me some sword or dagger tricks." ((Survival check to hunt +2 from X help ?)) [dice:3tz7syl9]20+2+2[/dice:3tz7syl9]

She lent back on her arms and watched the man and the elf converse. The elf seemed to notice what she was doing and a worried look came over his face, and he told her not to set fire to the tree. "I'm not going to burn the tree, silly. If you really want to see what I'm going to do then hang around a few more minutes and you can make sure I don't burn the tree. As for the comment about you working better with a camp fire I think it would be a good idea to have a low camp fire that produces more heat than actual light. It's a subtle but rather large difference. Your vision would be useful but E will be able to see further than you at that time."

Intrigued by Mitra's speech, Val asks X if they can wait a few minutes before going out to hunt. "I don't know of any fire that produces more heat and less light. Is it some king of magic ?" he asks her. "Perhaps you are right, and I should take the first watch." Val considers, before quickly adding "but I only need a few hours to rest so I could also take the second watch. Even if miss Evelyn has a better vision than I, my arrows should be able to strike first if they should be needed."

She smiles and nods to the elf. "A form of magic?" she looks a bit perplexed then says "I guess it could be, called that. This." indicating the rope in the bottle, "Is what you might call Science." She takes the rope out of the bottle and coils the rope carefully under the root making sure there is some distance under the root and the rope coils. She trails one of the ends out of the hole and after a few attempts she eventually manages to get it to light it smulders to start with and then she pushes the rope in the hole and puts a loose layer of dirt on to of it. She steps back so that Val can see in the hole. After about a minute there is a dull glow from the earth but no actual flame, she holds her hand over the hole and feels the heat coming out warm her hands. "See and now that the oil is burning but because of the layer of earth it can't make a full flame and thus it just produces heat, and if you blow." She blows in the hole and Val can see the heat blume rise out the other side of the hole. "It works on the same principal as blacksmiths use to heat metal, it wont get as hot but it will suffise." She starts faning the hole with her arms. "See I'm not burning the tree just creating an experiment. To answer my own curiosity. Now you two go see if you can find us something good to eat tonight. This little pit wont do for cooking anything but I'm sure Xerses can make a bigger one tonight."

"sure, let's wait and see what she's up to, there's still time. also, I think what Mitra means more or less is to get a good fire going and build up some coals and then let it burn, just adding small amount of wood to keep it going, providing adequate heat, but little light, that way we won't be spotted" X stands around with Val watching Mitra's experiment. after seeing it in action he says "ahh, now it makes sense. alright then, let's see what we can find, we'll be back in a bit" X trots away with Val to find some food, X has a hard time trying to find anything in this foreign landscape, but Val comes across a small wild boar and the two of them take it down in short order ((Val doesn't get the aid another bonus because X's roll sucked so bad, but he still got a 22, which is enough to feed himself and 6 people for a day so I ad hocced a wild boar, hope you don't mind. Val if you want to discuss anything on our trip, just send me a PM, I don't have much to say, but I make small talk while we're working)) ((I'll wait again before posting to give you guys a chance to do stuff while me and Val are gone))

Looking at the hole, then at Mitra val simply says "Amazing". "Sorry for misinterpreting your actions." he adds, before preparing his bow. "Are you ready, X ? Let's go see what the nature goddes has prepared for us tonight." ((I assume that with a 24 we will find enough food so that we can RP the dinner part ^^))

Zinnaella tries to keep track of all the decisions about the watches, trying to make sure they had a plan laid out. "Ok, so maybe three watches would be good. And now, Mitra and Val are going to take first watch, I can still take second watch with Evelyn, and Xerxes will take last watch in the early morning with, well - Posta, would you help out with that watch instead? Once we all get settled into a routine, this should be easier." Zinnaella gives a soft smile to everyone, realizing that most of them likely don't care that much about the details. [i:1r4jlc6o]But the lack of these details are when we get into trouble, that and too much wine...[/i:1r4jlc6o] Zinnaella mentally shakes the thought away and looks around as everyone seems to be doing something to get the camp ready, or themselves ready for the evening. She spends a few moments, looking at the great tree herself since she was more focused on scouting when they first arrived. [i:1r4jlc6o]Such strange, and yet wondrous, sights this quest has given already. What could the future hold for us, individually and as a group?[/i:1r4jlc6o]

"Yea that's no probs, i'll take last watch instead."

She hears Zinnaella organising the watch schedule and hears the mistake. "Actually I think Posta and Val were covering the early watch with Tathza to watch over the camp, followed by E and yourself, then lastly followed by myself and Xerses. That is if you want to go by what we just decided beofre." Althrough out she keeps an eye on the hole and the smouldering heat in the pit.

As they come back from hunting, Val hears Zinn how to make the night watch, but something is odd. "I didn't know Zinn had a good vision in the dark..." Val asks the group. He waits a little for an explanation, before continuing. "But whatever, like I said, I will take the first and second watch no matter how many will take it too." "Now, if you excuse us..." he bows a little just for fun "we got some boar which needs to be prepared." X carries a big boar. "Saverana guided us to this wondeful beast." "Oh and I also found some eatable plants and mushrooms for those who don't like roasted boar meat. And last but not least: these sweet berries." Val turns to X. "Can I entrust you with the boar ? I don't know how to handle it from here on." he laughs. ((Edited: missed X post for some reason...))

Tathza finds a nice place mostly out of sight. He wanted at least some form of privacy. It mattered little to Tathza what they did at this point and so he kept out of it as seemed to be best. Something would come or so Tathza felt. The house did not belong here and whatever made it would likely still be around or return. From all the ambushes they had been thru then it was likely to happen again. He would not be taken in the open and would have not bothered with the fire at this point as it seemed to draw to much attention. Let them do as they wish and I will keep to my own affairs. (Tathza is not aware of the watch so if no one tells him he does not know as he does not care enough to stick around)

X nods and carries the boar out of eye-shot in case anyone's squeamish. he returns a little while later with the boar on a makeshift spit made out of a sturdy branch and proceeds to cook it over the fire. "Val, if you'd like, we could make a soup out of those mushrooms and vegetables, I have an iron pot we can use and some clay tankards to serve it in, food in soup form keeps you feeling fuller for at least an hour longer. anyone who isn't into boar can have it and we can all split whatever's left, what do you think? is anyone here vegetarian?" X busies himself with the cooking. ((in case it matters for wild animals etc, I dug a hole with my shovel and buried the head and guts of the boar a short walk from camp))

Eventually she pours a little water in the pit and the ground sizzles and sputters. She pulls the remains of the rope out of the hole. She rubs at the root and feel the texture other than a slight heat the branch hasn't changed, she finds this interesting but she doesn't have the time. She drips water over the other rope and ties it to the warmed bark, she ties it at the bottem of the root this way there is less tension at the top of the rope. Once done she packs up the other bits and pieces, she would have to leave the rope there for a few hours and come back to check it, if the rope was bone dry on top where she had put the water then the tree would still be alive if it was still wet then it was dead. An interesting experiment that probably had been done before but she hadn't seen anything interesting about a white tree before except the religous retoric that E usually read. She walked back over to Xerses pack and placed his lantern and oil next to the pack then she walked over to the fire pit and warmed herself while she waited. She could see E was praying so it wasn't worth disturbing her.

To X and Val Pos says "Well done, that boar will make a most wholesome meal i'm sure."

[quote="Evil Wabit":1lgpci9j]She hears Zinnaella organising the watch schedule and hears the mistake. "Actually I think Posta and Val were covering the early watch with Tathza to watch over the camp, followed by E and yourself, then lastly followed by myself and Xerses. That is if you want to go by what we just decided beofre." Althrough out she keeps an eye on the hole and the smouldering heat in the pit.[/quote:1lgpci9j] "Oh, I knew I got turned around in all that. Very well, as long as things are covered. And Val - of course you are welcome to stay up, an extra set of eyes never hurts." Things settled, she moves to watch Mitra preform her experiments. "Uh Mitra, what are you trying to do, if I may ask?"

She looks up at Zinnaella and shuffles a bit then opens the blanket up for her to sit next to her. "Oh that." She indicates the experiment "I'm testing if the tree is alive or dead. The theory is that if you heat a root enough then the moisture is removed from that area to save it for the tree, once it cools it starts sucking moisture more so then before, so the damp rope, which I might point out is damp on top of the rope and furthest away from the root, it is also not under tension and thus the water doesn't seem around and away. The fact that the temperature will cool means the moisture will not evapourate, when i go back to it later if the rope is dry then the tree is alive and has dragged the moisture through the rope if the rope is still damp then it is dead." She looks at Zinnaella, "Sorry if it's boring, but I think it would be a good experiment to find out if the White Tree is really dead or not. I'm sure some druid has already worked it out but you know it never hurts to check."

Zinnaella takes a seat on the blanket and she reaches out to touch a part of the exposed root away from the rope while Mitra explains her experiment. "Oh, and since trees draw water through roots, that was why you had to expose the root, right? And some druid may have checked, but I don't see any of them here to ask." Zinnaella smiles to Mitra and then looks back to the rope and gives a slight frown. "But what if the original theory is wrong? That heating a root does not remove moisture? Wouldn't that make the whole test pointless?"

She nods "Thats right exposing the root meant it wasn't surrounded by moist soil and instead air, which is well less moist." as Zinnaella carries on with her pragnosis Mitra leans back and takes a deep breath "Yes if the original theory is incorrect then the experiment will fail, however what do you do if I stick your hand in a fire? You retract your hand this is because it burns and hurts. Thus the tree as an automatic defense drains the moisture as if the root withers and dies it has lost nothing it has, thousands more roots, but the moisture is important so it saves it. Clever thing life." She smiles at Zinnaella. "How are you today, those stairs were knackering."

one of Xerxes' eyebrows raises at the very intellectual conversation happening nearby between the two ladies. he can't help but listen to the conversation, turning to Mitra he says "that's so intriguing, the complexities that lie just below the surface of everyday life, I bet Tathza knows a thing or two about these things, maybe he has something to add to your experiment? it would be nice to include him and you could both potentially learn a lot from each other, I know I'm already learning plenty already" he says it light-heartedly and continues to focus on the boar roasting hypnotized and then suddenly his brows furrow and he says "darn, I should have brought salt, did any of you guys bring salt?"

Zinnaella nods, thinking she understands Mitra's explanation. "Ok, makes sense then. Wet rope - dead, dry rope - alive." Zinnaella takes her eyes off the tree as the conversation turns. "Me? Ok I guess. I was already a little tired when we started out, so that didn't help. But, a climb like that one does get the blood flowing. And luckily - other than Kaska we seem to have been all alone. If that holds though the night, I will be very grateful." "And no," she says to Xerxes, "I didn't bring any salt, sorry."

As the sun reaches it end, Evelyn begins her prayers. Winding a single hair strand around one of the finger bones, she places it in the centre of the 'ankh' shape made from the placed bones on the ground and softly whispers her words to her god. She becomes so absorbed in her chanting that she does not notice or hear the conversations behind. Her mind slips from conscious thought to a dream-like state, giving her mind the total freedom to be at one with her god. As she says her prayers, names are softly spoken, amongst others, each member of the group named inturn, alphabetically, beginning with Mitra and ending with Zinnaella. Her eyes slowly open and close, her vision going from light to dark, the pupils, forever adjusting and changing, yet she does not see through them and continues with her chant. As her prayers end, only then does the smell of the roasted boar, fill her senses and a tightness in her belly, confirms her hunger. Collecting her things and pack, she stands and walks back to the group, smiling, saying softly, "Mmm, that smells wonderful, where did you find that thing!" she smiles, "I thought this place to be barren." She leans in and takes another deep breath, "If you would like help, let me know," she smiles to Xerxes and gives Val'anthis a friendly wink. Then walks to Mitra and Zinnaella and sits down opposite them. She takes in Mitra's little 'experiment' her eyes widening in wonder and says with naive interest, "What's that for?" [sorry didnt hear the conversation - dont need to reply in detail though to save you copying and pasting what's been said]

She smiles at Xerses and subconscously she shuffles her legs crossing one over the other. "There is so much in this world to be found out and known and you can never tell what might be useful and what might not. I would have asked for his help but he seems to be very stand offish, and he doesn't really like me, but thats his choice. Besides he is just fine sat round the otherside of that root over there." She indicates the root that Tathza is sat behind. She digs through her satchel and comes out empty handed, "I'm sorry, I don't have any salt." She listens to Zinnaella "Have you not been sleeping well? I only ask because it's usual sign is to be tired in the morning. It seems that the more we toss and turn in our sleep the more tired we are when we wake, if you are having nightmares I might be able to find some herbs for you in a town or city we visit that might be able to help that." She shuffles up so that she is now between the two women watching the men doing the cooking. "Oh the experiment is to work out if the white tree is still alive. I heated the underside to drive out the moisture from it's root and as it cools it will draw moisture from where it can, so the top of the rope is wet, if in a good few hours the rope is still wet then the tree could very well be dead but if the rope is dry then the tree has absorbed the moisture and is still alive. I'm sure others have probably done the same and know these details but it's nice to try an experiment every now and again." She says. "We can't chock everything up to the gods did it, now can we." she says with a wink. She goes back to watching the men work and says in a low voice so that only the three of them can hear "You know it's nice to see men that do the domestic duties every now and again." she adds a giggle at the end.

Catching the end of Mitra's words she says, "Oh, have you not being sleeping well Zinnaella?" Evelyn asks softly. "Yes I'm sure Mitra will find a herb or something for your lack of sleep," she adds, "if not, talk to me later and I will try to help you, if I can." Evelyn listens to Mitra's explanation of her experiment with great interest, amazed at the girl's grasp of the theory and how she thought up such ideas was totally beyond her comprehension. Evelyn raises an eyebrow to Mitra's ending words, intended as a jibe, "You stick to your beliefs and I will stick with mine," she replies with a grin. Anyone else making such a comment would have received cold words from Evelyn but she couldn't bring herself to be angry with Mitra, forgiving her instantly. [i:1jqzeljo]'she forgives you for so much more..'[/i:1jqzeljo] races through her mind Changing the subject she smiles as Mitra makes her comment about the men doing the cooking and giggles also at her words. "Yes and now we know they can do it well, what say we let them do it every night." she says with a mischievous smile.

She smiles back and tickles her rips "Oh come on E, no need to be a mopey so and so, gods do a lot for the world of that I have no doubt but sometimes it's nice to have an alternative theory." she says with a sly smile and a wink. She takes a deep breath and releases it in a sigh. "It's such a nice night lets not spoil it, not when I have my best friends here with me." She puts an arm round both women and hugs them. Then under her breath so that only they can hear she says "I totally agree we should make them do the washing up as well."

"You know I can't joke about my faith or our gods, Mitra," She says so softly, only Mitra and Zinnaella can hear her words, her eyes downcast. "My faith in Vecer has kept me alive, given me a chance to change and become who I am now, from what I was back then. It was my faith in Vecer that gave me compassion for you, Mitra, why I stole your cell key, stealing myself to meet you in secret, giving you hope that you would see the light of day, once more, with my tales of happiness, joy and love." When Mitra puts her arm around her, Evelyn smiles, "Yes it is a wonderful night, full of promise and friendship. I too, am glad to have both of you in my life, " she smiles warmly at them both, "We are indeed best friends or I hope we are, and as best friends, I agree with Mitra," her tone changes to a mischievous one, "we must stick together and make sure these boys really do, do the washing up." she laughs.

Althrough Evelyn's speech she rolls her eyes having heard it and done it all before, "Fine, Fine no jokes, goodness I never thought it would be so hard to crack a joke at your expense for once, instead of mine." She lowers her voice "You know we could, use our femine wiles." She says with a grin eyeing Xerses.

A look of hurt, from Mitra's unsympathetic words, flashes across Evelyn's eyes, before she quickly suppresses it. It was unexpected from her but yet this was a 'new' Mitra she had never met before, so the unexpected had to be expected, so maybe... As Mitra poses her question, she replies in a whisper, "What did you have in mind?"

Several images flash in her mind concerning her and Xerses wearing nothing but a blanket. Her eyes betray nothing of this through as she whispers "Well you have Val wraped round your finger some what, and he is a dullard so why not play on his simpleness and get him to do your side of the work, I'm sure between myself and Zinnealla we can come up with a plan for Xerses."

"I wish you would stop referring to his intellect in that way," Evelyn chides Mitra, in a friendly tone. "But you forget the others," she adds, "Postavicka and Tathza, they might need [i:2y0u3qq7]'convincing'[/i:2y0u3qq7] aswell," she says with a wink.

She frowns for a second having completely forgotten about the half-cast and the midget. She whispers "True I had forgotten the quiet ones. Maybe since Zinnealla my dear has a small connection with Tathza, she can work on that and of course Posta is fairly easy just flash him a bit of flesh and he will be all over you." She thinks for a few seconds and then whispers "Okay E you take Val and Posta, Zinn should take Tathza and since he will be a tough nut to crack I will take the last one... Mr X." She thinks herself quite clever with that split and because it is the logical conclusion her mind goes back to the images. Hopefully tonights close-quarter training will be a close encounter for X.

"No," replies Evelyn, "Lets just enjoy the evening," She lies down on her back, looking up at the sky, her legs crossed and her arms folded, behind her head. "Unless," she adds softly, "Zinnaella insists we play our little game, " she glances at Zinnaella, " But if we do, let's stick together and have fun. Splitting up sounds more like we plan to seduce them in an entirely different way..and besides, Postavicka prefers gnomish women. So unless I walk up to him on my knees, he's going to dismiss me out of hand." she giggles.

humming to himself X begins to carve up the boar, placing the cooked meat on a plank of wood he washed and then starts walking around letting people take pieces meat stopping at Tathza he says "Hi Tathza, If you'd prefer something other than meat, we've made a basic vegetable soup and you're welcome to it. how's it going?" pausing he adds "je parle Elvish aussi si tu veux, mais pardon mon accent" (I also speak Elvish if you want, but please excuse my accent)

Her day-dreams go up in smoke with a bump. She smirks, [i:1dj5x49o]Ooo someone is feeling stern tonight, better not push her to hard.[/i:1dj5x49o] "Fine if you don't want to. It was only a game. Although I think posta would like it if you shuffled up on your knees." Xerses made his round with the meat, and Mitra took only a small part to make sure she got some food and didn't just tax her body completely on her energies. She smiled up at the broad man and gave him a wink and a smile of thanks, then watched as he disappeared round the corner to go feed Tathzi.

"Well, two nights ago I didn't so much sleep as pass out I guess. And I don't remember any dreams from last night, just woke up rather tired still. Might have just been a long day yesterday." Zinnaella shrugs it off, not too concerned. "Although, if I do have trouble sleeping, I'll be sure to let the two of you know. Thank you both for the offers." As Mitra grabs both women and they all hug, Zinnaella gives a studious look to Mitra while she can't see. [i:1dpfekbl]Ok, not the same as last evening - or any other time I've known her so far. How does Evelyn keep up with all that Mitra is?[/i:1dpfekbl] Zinnaella lets the thoughts go, actually glad to see a different Mitra than they had last night anyway. Suddenly brought back to the conversation, Zinnaella realizes the other two have been talking about seducing the men or something. "Yeah, I don't think that would work. Tathza has no interest in anyone else as far as I can tell, and... well, I don't think I could actually do that. It's... well, it's just not me I guess." Zinnaella's shy stutter returns on this topic and her cheeks begin to redden a little. Feeling the blush coming on, she quickly looks to the ground and simply twists the toe of her boot into the dirt, making a slight depression in the ground.

"That's ok," Evelyn rises and puts a comforting hand on her arm, "We wouldn't want you to do anything you are not comfortable with," she smiles. "And you are right," She continues softly, " I doubt Tathza could be seduced by anyone, except.." and she whispers into their ears, "..maybe his own reflection."

She nibbles on the meat and she was distracted by watching Xerses back. "Mmmm yeah you might not even realise that you have restless sleep it's not so much that you can remember your dreams more that subconscously you are worried about something and thus you aren't sleeping properly." She sighs and her senses go back to the conversation and she realises that E is comforting Zinnealla, she replays the conversation in her head, and then almost chocks on the meat. Spluttering she looks at Zinnealla and her subdued body language and her distracted body language of rubing her foot into the floor. A look of shock comes over Mitra "Oh honey, I never knew." She trows her hands around Zinnealla and hugs her she whispers in her ear "It was only a joke for fun, if your are like Evelyn then you are safe with us honey, we would never take advantage of you."

Zinnaella's eyes widen at Mitra's comment. "Huh? Oh no, I mean..." Zinnaella looks at Evelyn, not wanting to hurt her feeling either, but not sure exactly what to say. Instead, she just responds quietly, "I never was good at getting the interest of men - usually." Zinnaella then gives Mitra a quick squeeze of a hug and quickly changes the topic. "So, how's the meat?"

"It's okay shhh you don't have to talk about it now we can find some where private if you want to discuss that." She strokes her hair to chastise the woman, and whispers "We can speak within our minds maybe when we walk tomorrow." She sits back and smiles a winning smile to Zinnaella. "The meat is good cooked by a good chef, her try some she picks a bit off and offers it between her fingers to Zinnaella.

Zinnaella nods in agreement to end the discussion at that point. She returns Mitra's smile with one of her own to say thanks. Being offered a piece of food, Zinnaella takes it from Mitra with her fingers as well, quickly then moving it to her mouth (assuming that the freshly cooked meat is indeed hot). She eats it, enjoying the flavors, "Mmm, well done indeed. Good job guys, delicious meal." She gives Xerxes and Val a nod each in appreciation. EDIT: She then returns her attention back to Mitra and she speaks softly, "Mitra, speaking of the link, can I ask you something about it?"

Pos accepts a piece of the boar "Thanks a ton, this is a fine feast for the road, I thought I would have to make do on my rubbish rations but I see now that with you guys around we are going to eat just fine and that make me happy." Pos thinks to himself that these people are actually a rather good sort and is glad to be on this mission with them.

Tathza looks at the impressive warrior and finds him to be the most level headed of this group. Tathza did not think he would fall anytime soon but one never knew. "I would prefer the soup and do not bother with the elvish as drow use a different dialect and I am assuming you learned yours here on the surface so you may end up insulting me without intent. Elvish is more a tongue of intent then words if you understand and so while non elves can learn it fairly well with enough work, few can hone their intent to the point of bring out its true words. But their is always a chance for those of strong focus. Thank you for the meal."

X listens carefully, nodding "that makes sense, I'll remember that. I learnt Elvish from a half-elf sailor working on the same ship as me and to be honest I figured he wasn't the most credible teacher, but it was better than nothing. If you're ever in the mood, I'd be happy to take some lessons from you sometime, perhaps I can trade you for cooked meals? I'll be right back" X goes back to the campfire and fills a clay tankard with vegetable soup, bringing it back to Tathza, "sorry about the serving dish, we don't have any bowls... as for my intent, I just wanted to see how you're doing" X tentatively sits down near Tathza, making sure to leave several feet between them so as not to intrude on the elf's personal space.

She eats some more of the meat and looks to Zinnaella "Of course you can ask about it. What would you like to know?"

"When we used it before, how much of my thoughts were sent? I know that I usually heard only certain thoughts from your two, like a spoken conversation. Yet, there was also the one time I felt emotions through it." Zinnaella glances at Val, remembering how she had snapped at him due to Mitra's anger and frustration. "But I don't know how much I send out, or if I even can control it. Is there anything you can tell me about how it works to better use it in the future?"

Evelyn leaves Zinnaella and Mitra to their discussion and turns to pick up her pack. Slinging it over one shoulder she makes her way to the main encampment within the roots and finds a spot to one side to lay down her pack and things. She looks back at the group, at the way the atmosphere of friendly banter weaves around them and smiles a warm smile.

She finishes off the little meat she had taken. "Well thats an interesting question, I can't remember how much of your thoughts had been communicated in our previous conversations." She splashes a small amount of water on her hands to wash them. She draws three cirles on the round that are all overlaping in segments. "The link can be a little daunting to start with but the easiest way of thinking about it is that you have three stats to your mind. You have an active stat that is the part of your mind that focuses on what your doing and saying. You have a subconscious mind which is what we communicate through this is where your automated actions happen like breathing, and flash emotions such as a quick emotion of pain or fear. Lastly you have your private mind which is where you have thoughts about, people, things, etc like an internal monologue if you would." She points to the diagram as she speaks "So with these three all working together you get a certain bleed over of thoughts, emotions, etc. Your active mind which is what spell-casters use to work there magic is only slightly affected by the other three, and visa versa. When I had a flash of emotion it was so powerful emotion it fed down the link to you as I was probably to distracted by whatever it was to stop it. Occationally it will happen but as in life the more you work with something the better you are at using it." She wipes away the circle diagram "Does that help?"

Leaving her pack, Evelyn walks up to Val and Posta, smiling at them both. Turning to Val she asks, "May i try some?" [assuming Val hands her some meat] She takes the boar meat into her hands, juggling it alittle from hand to hand as it cools down, gently blowing on it before taking a bite. "This is really tasty," she remarks, "Was it easy to catch?" she asks him.

"Of course." Val says to Eve while handing her some meat. "But take care, it's hot." "Thanks, but to be honest, it was mainly X who prepared the boar." "It wasn't that hard to catch it, as a matter of a fact run into it whithout expecting it." he laughs. "I was gathering some berries and hoping to find a rabbit perhaps, with X's help. It was then when we found him. So you should perhaps thank Saverana more than me." he says while smiling. (Edit:) "How are you girls getting along ? You seem to share quite a few secrets." Before Eve can answer him, he adds, "A shame my elven ears aren't god enough to hear what you are always whispering"

"Trust me," she replies softly, regarding him with a curious grin, " You wouldn't want to know what we are talking about. It might cause you to spit your food out in shock," she says with a smile. "Besides we wouldn't want you to ruin this lovely boar, letting it burn while you eavesdrop us," she grins. "Yes my thanks to Saverana," she give him a formal bow of her head as she says it, "for providing us with such a lovely meal." "And my thanks to you and Xerxes aswell ofcourse," she adds smiling. Evelyn looks over to the house and studies it, while she stands by Val and Posta, eating her food. She frowns as if in thought, trying to find a clue to what mystery this house might reveal. [i:1tq13737]'should we be so close..'[/i:1tq13737] she ponders the thought then dismisses it. She had no fears of the house with the group so close around her. Though they were still perhaps inexperienced in battle, she had faith, in all of them...

Tathza takes the soup and eye's it slowly. It was a habit he had picked up and was not so much intended for the soup or rather the one who had served it. He nods at the warrior and drinks a little slowly. "I know a few languages and have been studying others in my spare time as well. I am sure that their are some among our group who know a few as well. I would not mind teaching you elvish but I would not teach you the drow dialect as many elves other then drow find it insulting in and of itself, but then again any drow that heard a human speaking elvish with the drow dialect would be even more untrusting. Among the drow the more as you say interesting you are the less likely to be attacked or at least directly." Tathza respected the warrior for among the group he had been the least to speak and was intent on getting the mission done. He held no secrets and did not speak as a fool. Most of all he knew his place and did not care for what those around him said. He kept himself out of things and went about his own business, only a fool would take his actions at face value. Tathza did not think the others gave this man enough credit, but then again Tathza was starting to make a habit of keeping things to himself and why not.

Pos ponders on Evelyn a while and says "So Evelyn, what's it like to have a strong connection with a God? is it something that has been with you since childhood or did you pursue it later in life?".

X nods again and watches Tathza's reaction to the soup to try and tell if he likes it. "surface Elvish is what I'm looking to improve on, if there's ever reason for me to need the Drow dialect then I'm likely in over my head by that point anyways. Surface Elvish is likely to be more practical and useful to me in the foreseeable future, I'd appreciate any time and patience you could spare me, thanks again" looking back at their small camp he adds "I best get some food before it's all gone, it was good talking to you" with that, Xerxes gets up and heads back to the small campfire, now dwindling, he stirs the coals a little to settle them and doesn't add any extra wood. X settles down near the small fire and eats a large portion of boar and some soup, washing it all down with a little wine and water, pondering to himself. [i:1c3xnt9l]Tathza's got a shield around his heart and mind stronger than any I've ever sparred against, it's almost tangible, I can imagine him deflecting all the extraneous words with it, brush aside some talk about the weather, deflect a 'how do you do' and then riposte! a counterattack aimed right at the heart of the matter. If I can keep the swords and arrows at bay, I know he can tackle all the silver-tongued charlatans who'd waste our time[/i:1c3xnt9l] nodding as Pos' question X says "actually, I'd like to know about Vecer if you can spare a few minutes"

Zinnaella listens intently to Mitra's description of how the mind works with her form of magic, her vision focused on the diagram as she is walked though the process. "I think so, we make contact in this subconscious part, yet use the active part to actually communicate, right? And in some cases, emotions and possibly thoughts from the private mind can also cross over." Zinnaella thinks for a moment, trying to determine how to phrase her question. "Is there anything that one can practice to better protect the others from the private mind?" Zinnaella smiles apologetically, "I don't want to distract either you or Evelyn at a crucial moment if I can help it."

Mitra puffs out her cheeks and then exhales slowly. "Erm, I guess you could just try to focus more on your feelings, and then try to block them out when we talk, I'm not going to lie it is hard and as you've seen even those practiced and well versed can get it wrong sometimes. However because myself and E are practiced enough we can help block out the feelings part, which takes time to learn but as I said like anything in this world it just takes time and practice." She watches E talking to Posta and Val and then whispers even more quietly "So if you don't mind me asking, if your not into men do you fancy either myself or E? I ask because I know E is beautiful and many people desire her, and there are parts of my personality that love her in that way, and love her in other ways." Her head lolls closer still "Don't fear the others I have the ability to squash any conscous interaction or memory of this time while I am the one on the surface. Maybe it is me you are infatuated with in which case I would be shocked."

Evelyn turns to Postavicka and Xerxes and says softy, "To have total faith in a god is like having the most wonderful friend. A friend who can show you the way when you are lost, help you to see when you are blind, make you happy when you are sad, forgive you when you need forgiveness and protect you when you are in need of protection. You are never alone, whether you realize it or not. Even if, in a windowless cell with no visible means of escape, your faith gives you the strength and the will to survive and one day, shows you the door to your freedom. "I found my faith in Vecer, when I least expected it. I turned a corner and it changed my life. If I had not found my faith in Vecer I would not be standing here before you now..." she drifts off then shakes her head and continues, "Vecer is the god of transition and change. It is neither female nor male, it simply is. It takes many forms to represent its different aspects of change or transition. To the farmers in the fields Vecer is like a changing wind, bringing promise of new weather and seasons for their crops to grow." "To midwifes and mothers, Vecer is an invisbile presence in the room. A tingling spark of electrifying sensation, that you feel on the back of your neck, as new life appears and cries for the first time. For, while Vecer guides those who pass from life to the after-realms, it is also responsible for guiding a soul to life, to inhabit that tiny new body." "But perhaps Vecer's most feared form is that of death. To those who make that transition from life to death, it takes the form of a cloaked figure in black, its shrouded form moving to an unseen wind. It oars a long skiff of ebony wood, gliding across the still black sea of the dead and the damned. It accepts your payment and guides you safely to the realm of your afterlife." "So as a priestess of Vecer, I embrace all these aspects of change and transition. But as we all find our faith due to a different path or event in our lives that gives us reason to find it. While others may find themselves drawn to the changes of seasons or birth, so I am drawn to death." Her tone becomes darker, "But do not confuse Vecer, with Maro Giltine, the 'black sting of death'. For Maro is the ladylord of the dead and the damned, the evil crone or beautiful seductress, who revels in death's glory, seducing lost souls on the shores of the dead, returning them as walking undeath, causing havoc and terror amongst the lands of the living." "So of course Vecer and Maro are at odds with one another, both seeing the other as the interloper. Sharing the same realm, but representing different aspects of death. Naturally this likely means all undead we meet here, in this realm, I shall attempt to destroy, for they will be Maro's own." "With Vecer's blessing he gives me, when I ask for it, soldiers of my own. Faithful souls who serve Vecer in the realm of death, who return to the land of the living, for a short time to serve me and right wrongs or fight Maro's minions." "These servants appear much like Maro's, for their bodies have long past away and can only take on a semblance of death." Sometimes, as what occurred in the forest, if I can sense it while casting my spell, Vecer aids me to forcefully control one of Maro's own, for that short time. A show of power...from one deity to the other."

She remembers the mental note she made yesterday and as the night draws in, it is the perfect time for some tale telling around a campfire. So after the discussion of her god is finished, Evelyn sits down next to Xerxes and asks softly, "Yesterday, you mentioned some names I have never heard of before, such as, Lack Dow, Harding Grim, Rudd Threetrees, Dogman, Tul Duru, Furious, Logen Ninefingers and the bloody nine. I wondered if you had a tale to tell of one or more of them. As I would be interested to hear of them." she smiles.

Zinnaella listens to Mitra's suggestion and nods along. "Ok, I'll keep trying." At the suggestion of who Zinnaella fancies, she squirms a little, her eyes downcast again as she is not comfortable with the topic. "It, it's not that I'm not... uh, into men. They just aren't, you know, into me. Even with yours and Evelyn's help with the dress and everything - nothing." Zinnaella seems to give a slight shrug, "I guess, well..." Zinnaella looks back up to Mitra, a forced smile on her face, "I guess not everyone can be like Evelyn, huh?"

Mitra smiled at the young woman she was a very astute learner and the questions meant that she was obviously interested in more than what others brushed off as godly or 'a wizard did it'. It felt nice to be asked sensible questions, by an avide student. Maybe some day Zinnaella might ask her to be an appretice but for today she was happy to be novice. "My dear the help with the dress was nothing special we dress up whenever we can so as not to feel like adventurers, mucky and grubby all the time. As for these men they might not see your beauty but my dear there are plenty other men or women that would find you attractive, don't give up heart." She gives her a hug then looks back at E, who is in the middle of some kind of long speech about gods... again. "As for E her looks are both a blessing and a curse. She can use them to get what she wants but then she would be branded a harlot or worse. Also some men and women can't see past the looks at the intelligance behind those eyes. Just remember that no matter how much the poor woman tries for the majority of her life she will be branded by her looks. Everyone has there own uniqueness and the important thing in this life is to recognise it and treat it as a blessing." She looks back at Zinnaella again and whispers "I know you wont believe it but your mind is sharp and with but a little training you could be a psion if you wanted it. I wont lie and say it is an easy thing to learn or that it will not take months of training but if you wanted to learn the art of mind over matter I could teach you in private, or if you wished you could learn the arcane arts quite adaptly from Tathza if he would but teach you." She again looks back at the group by the fire but this time focusing on Xerses "Of course the paths of life are never straight so it is your choice you could do many things but we can only show you the doors you have to be willing to walk through them. On the subject of men and women, you still seemed confused but if you ever need help with it and I am here then feel free to speak to me on such matters I will do what I can." She smiles at the last.

“Ah, the bloody nine and his men. My mother used to tell me stories when I was a kid” X gets a faraway look in his eye as he continues “I remember running around playing with the other kids, pretending I was...” X stumbles and then quickly says “one of the heroes from her stories” speaking in a low voice now he says “the bloody nine was the most feared man in all the north, back ages ago before this age of man when it was tribes and survival meant being a hunter and protecting and providing for your family, when strength and cunning were respected and mistakes could mean your life. The bloody nine was a warrior like none other, named so because he only had 9 fingers and whenever he was awake you could be sure they’d be covered in blood. The truth is he wasn’t just a man, he was a demon spirit or something else, no one really knows, he lived inside a man named Logen ninefingers and as the stories go, when Logen would find himself close to death, back against the wall and nearing the other side, the bloody nine would wake up inside of him and destroy any enemy with a savage fury unknown among any natural thing” still talking in a low voice X says “back then you didn’t have a name until you earned one, like I mentioned, it was normally from some sort of battle injury or accomplishment, to signify not only becoming a man, but as a symbol for others, a benchmark to strive for” “and so there rose a man with great ambition, his name was Bethod and with the help of a powerful sorceress he defeated Logen in combat, by their culture if a man defeats you in a challenge of martial strength you are duty-bound to follow him and take him as your superior, that is of course if you live. So Bethod used Logen to defeat the leaders of the tribes to unite them under one banner for Bethod’s campaign to conquer the rest of the world, but Bethod went too far, separated from their warriors, some of their tribes were slaughtered by the many dangers of the wild, by the creatures living in the forest’s shadows, in particular, Logen’s wife and two daughters were killed. It was then that Logen left Bethod and several other named men went with him, Dogman, Tul Duru, Black Dow, Harding Grim, the Weakest, and Rudd Threetrees. Furious came later, he was adopted by Black Dow. Each of those men had a reputation known throughout the North, each of them had lost to Logen in fair combat and followed him, eventually becoming very close friends with great respect for each other. Each of those names carries it’s own story” “the group has a long story, they have many adventures, but in the end, Logen and his men are separated and he ends up meeting one of the last great wizards, a man named Bayaz, and in his travels with him comes to love a woman named Ferro. They were trying to find a way to defeat another great wizard who was making war throughout the south where Ferro came from. In the North another man stepped up to face Bethod...” [i:apdsmw5q]Xerxes would have never lied to protect himself, he would have faced his responsibilities[/i:apdsmw5q] X stops and says quietly “I’ve got to tell you something” then, loud enough to make sure Tathza can hear him “I’ve got to tell you all something and I’m sorry that I did it, but I’ve lied to all of you” dropping his head, he takes a breath and then looking around the group he says “my name isn’t Xerxes, Xerxes the Great was a warrior who challenged and defeated Bethod, putting an end to the war in the North and giving the people their freedom back, I just used his name because he was my favorite hero” “my real name is Octavian Aurelius the 4th and my father is a pirate and outlaw and I guess so am I. I was raised from the age of 9 on a pirate ship and I’m not proud of being a crewmember or the things we did, but I knew that it was wrong and I left to live a good life and I couldn’t start over with my father’s name, both for my own peace of mind and also because it’s a criminal name. When I came to town I was on the run, I had abandoned ship in the night and I didn’t know if he’d come after me so I signed on with this group as an opportunity to put some distance between us. I’m sorry, I’ve gotten to know you and I believe you’re all decent people, at first I just wanted to get away, but now I really want to help and I hope you’ll forgive me” X slumps his shoulders, a relief washing over him, but now replaced by uncertainty and shame.

As Xerxes tells his tale of Logen Ninefingers, her eyes widen, totally transfixed. Her eyes do not leave Xerxes's face once, as she absorbs the tale, visualising the combats in her mind, imagining each character as Xerxes describes them. The tale fascinates her and she begins to prepare questions in her mind when the tale takes a sudden twist she was not expecting from him. When he hangs his head in shame, she instinctively puts her arm around him giving him a comforting hug. "Do not be ashamed Octavian Aurelius the 4th," she says softly as I told you at the party, we have all done things in our past we may not be proud off, that is why the future is so important, as you can shape it to be whatever you want it to be." "Since you have met us, you have proven yourself to be an honourbound and loyal companion. I dont think anyone here would disagree. We are all glad to have your company and what you did in your past, is simply that in the past." "you cant change that, but who are we to judge you on that. For we were not there, or in your shoes. You followed in the footsteps of your father as a child maybe, but as you grew up you realised your error and left. That is a good thing, a good thing to hold onto . you changed direction on the path of life and it brought you to a new crossroads. You made your choice and now you are with us." "There is nothing to forgive, please do not be ashamed..you are a good man and that's all I need to know." She gives him another comforting squeeze with her arm and smiles, looking to the group and what their words might be.

As X starts his story, Val isn't really interested. But then he admits that he lied to them. That gets Val attention and so he listens carefully to X. Val waits until Eve has finished before patting X on the shoulder. "Like I already told Mitra, I don't care from where you got your strenght nor what you have done before. All that is important to me is that now, you are a valuable companion." "Nevertheless, I thank you for telling us that you might be followed. It enables us to be ready if they plan to attack us." "Of course if you really want to repent for your past sins, you could perhaps tell your secret for making this boar so delicious !" he laughs naively, but hopes to lighten the mood.

he thanks Eve with his eyes and a small smile and then turns to Val "thanks Val and about being followed, I don't think he'd have come this far inland, my father can't leave his ships and they're currently a little short on men since they suffered casualties recently, but even if he did, I think they'd just want to kidnap me and I will turn myself over peacefully"

"Are you kidding me ? Who will take the blows in the front so that I can shoot my arrows without worrying about being surrounded ?" he asks him smiling, "You don't really think I will let you go before you tell me some of you tracking tactics !"

Evelyn returns Xerxes's smile, pleased that perhaps her words had gone some way towards making him feel better. She knew that it would take alot more than simple words to heal his past but hoped with all their help and their show of friendship toward him, with time, the healing would really begin. She does not remove her arm just yet, in the hope it's touch maintains the warmth and comfort her companions are also starting to show. She smiles at Val's words and is pleased he tries to lighten the tone alittle. After Val's show of loyalty with regards to Xerxes's father taking him back, she also adds to his words, with conviction, "As Val so rightly says, even if your father or his men did try to take you back, know that we would stand by you, and refuse him." "You are stuck with us now, Xerxes," she says in a lighthearted tone, giving him a light shake of the shoulders, "whether you like it or not." She says smiling at him.

Mitra's jaw slackens with shock at Xerses's admission. She rushes over and gives him a tight hug, driving the wind completely out of him. "You don't have to appologise, it's going to be fine, I'm sure we can help you, and keep you safe from the monsters." she carries on hugging him tightly. She can hear his heart beating in his chest and she could feel his muscles, she almost broke down in tears that she had never known and he had carried his secret with him all this time.

Evelyn rocks back a little as Mitra embraces Xerxes in a rush. Shock momentarily appears in her eyes, then she dismisses the thought, this is a new Mitra and in truth had no idea what sort of person she is. Taking back her arm, with slight difficulty, as its trapped in their tight embrace, she pulls her arm free with a jerk and stands, not wanting to impose on their embrace or moment of comfort. She dusts herself, looking to the group and smiles then steps back letting the others move forward to comfort X. She sees Zinnaella standing where Mitra had stood only seconds before and decides to go over to chat. She greets Zinnaella with a smile and says softly, "There is something I forgot to ask you earlier." "You have..erm certain skills which are useful for your[i:3lgzftud] 'trade'.[/i:3lgzftud] I wondered if you had used those skills on the little house. For it had no doors or windows that I could see, but wondered with your trained eye, if you could spot what the rest of us might have missed." "If you haven't already, perhaps we could take a quick look now?"

After Eve tells Pos that her faith in her god is like a best friend that one never feels alone Pos says "That must be a great way to live, i've never had that connection, not sure if I ever will." He ponders the thought of a faith that when one has it banishes all possibility of loneliness, then he thinks well when I feel lonely I just join up with a cute gnome lass and he thinks nothing more of it and sits back after his feast and listens to the party chat....

(scooby doo moment going back in time) "Ahh" Evelyn replies to postavicka with a slight grin on her face, " But that's the mystery of it all, for Postavicka, my friend, you already have that [i:fbfijsxc]'connection'[/i:fbfijsxc]. You just don't realize it yet."

"Oooh, well it's a comforting thought to be helped along a bit in life, I must say there's been a few times where I've felt a spiritual hand guilding and helping me. But I tend to fall back on my natural magical skill which just seem to come to me when I need it. I suppose I quite lucky." He looks about at the party "Perhaps we all are quite lucky, comapared to the average person?".

X can't help but smile with all the support he's getting, he returns Mitra's hug and inbetween breathing says "thank you all so much, I'm never going to forget this, you've got my friendship and my word that I won't be keeping any more secrets" X looks over at Tathza to gauge his reaction, most worried about what the stern wizard would say.

Pos thinks, ah people getting along so well, perhaps leading these people will go along quite swimmingly.

She sighs and rubs her head in his shirt taking a deep breath of him, her senses tingled and she felt herself pulling tighter on him. Her mind snapped back to reality and she stepped back from him looking embarassed. She instantly changes to a scoulding look on her face "Of course you better not keep secrets, they might end up hurting someone. Then what?" she pokes him in the ribs "But cheer up, you have friends now." She checks the night sky, "You know it's probably best we start thinking about going to bed otherwise we are going to toil the night away." She sees the two woman stood next to the root chatting, and she smiles knowing that what will be will be, but she did worry what the other personalities would think if anything did ever happen, between those two.

Evelyn looks out into the darkness, toward the little house and turns to Zinnaella and says, "Actually perhaps that was a bad idea of mine. It is dark and I forget you cannot see in the darkness, and using a light source could make us be seen for miles." "Perhaps we should wait till morning. Unless you have an idea to get around the problem of being seen from afar," she smiles.

Zinanella absorbed what Mitra told her, both about the dress and Evelyn, simply nodding in response. "I'll keep that in mind, thank you." At Mitra's whispered suggestion of working to become either a psion or a wizard, Zinnaella can't help but chuckle. "I appreciate the thoughts, but uh - studying has never worked for me," she nods toward where Tathza seats, referencing the idea of studying arcane arts. "As for being a psion, I... I don't think it's for me - I prefer the skills that come naturally to me." Zinnaella gives Mitra an apologetic smile nonetheless. "As far as the last topic, well - I never considered myself confused. Why would you think that?" Zinnaella looks at Mitra, quite confused about the girl's comment. ((will have to respond to Mitra' answer in a later post - but it would go here timeline wise)) The conversation comes to an end at Xerxes makes a proclamation to the entire group and then tells his tale. She listens and is about to agree with the words of the others when Mitra rushes past her into Xerxes. [i:3b71dczi]What the???[/i:3b71dczi] Zinnaella's eyes widen slightly and glances between Evelyn and Mitra a couple times. She thought she had understood their relationship - but now she wasn't so certain. So, instead she turns her head back, catching Tathza's eye and giving him a quick shrug. As she turns back, she notes Evelyn approaching her and the priestess asks her about the little house. "What little house?" she asks, since she never bothered to even look at it since everyone else ended up dismissing it. "Oh, is that what you all were gathered around earlier?" Evelyn nods ((or so I'd assume)), but then notes the time and suggests waiting. "Morning will have to do, I can hear people sneaking up on us in the dark - but I can't hear hidden doors, unless they are being opened I guess."

"Yes it was," Evelyn replies to Zinnaella's question. "It was the strangest thing, a tiny house supported with what looked like four bird legs. As i approached, I noticed these bugs and insects around me. They began to crawl on me as i studied it and was....." She explains in detail the encounter with the house, from start to finish, subconciously describing it like she would a tale, excitement in her voice, emphasizing the bugs movements and their little war and how she felt compassion for the general beetle when it was wounded. When she finishes, she frowns, uncertain why she had relayed it in such a way. Worrying the rogue might think her 'immature' in her relaying of information she adds in a more serious tone, "That house is a mystery, its secret hidden inside. Part of me wants to know and dares me to touch it, to find out and the other screams a warning that such foolhardiness will bring a consequence for us all." Evelyn says softly, "What do you think we should do about the house? Do you believe it should be left and we should walk away? Or are you too intrigued to know what secrets are stored inside it's rooms."

Tathza took the silence well. He had so far gone without any moments to himself. He enjoyed reflecting upon all that had happened and seeing the subtle ties with in all things and their hints of a growing form, a growing image. All things no matter how small and remote held ties to the world and could effect seemingly unrelated things. They were all nothing more then dots of light in an endless darkness, the light of some were brighter then others and some far greater. Some would think such things to be based on foolish traits as power and the physical, but Tathza knew better. The light of all beings were based on something that could not be empowered or nertured. His party had a weak light of that he was sure. Some even flickered as if they could not retain themselves. Tathza poured over his spells keeping them fresh in his mind and the power they held. Tathza let the subject pass and kept enjoying his rare peace. Soon enough they would be speaking their foolish words and getting attacked by those just as foolish as them. Tathza let out a breath and found his center once more. Time that was all it ever came down to, Time.

"Oh, rooms and exploring their hidden secrets is very intriguing to me, but this one should be left for tomorrow. Right now, I doubt I would find my hand in front of my face." Zinnaella then turns to the group and starts heading to the others.

"You are right," Evelyn replies softly, "Unless something occurs that forces or allows us to discover these rooms and their secrets, it would be best to leave it till tommorow." she smiles, then follows Zinnaella back to the group.

She chuckles as Zinnaella says she prefers skills that come naturally "Sorry I shouldn't laugh because I'm guessing you don't know, but Psionics comes naturally to all creatures, or more precisely all creatures have the natural talent it just takes some gentle practice to harness the power. You can't learn it from a book you have to be have someone or something teach you." she returns Zinnaella's appologetic smile. "You seem confused over which gender you are attracted to, or maybe you find both intreguing for different reasons, that is a possibility. The language of your body is what is telling me you are confused, but thats a conversation for another day." (If you want to continue this conversation i suggest you PM me as I don't want to Scooby Doo the heck out of this thread )

Evelyn returns to the group to see Mitra is still hanging onto Xerxes's body (and words), which causes her to frown a little. She lets the conversation or banter, continue for a few moments, while she chews her lip in thought, then walks forward, bending toward Mitra and whispers into her ear, [i:10mb5ma7] 'Mitra, we need to talk....now."[/i:10mb5ma7] She steps back awaiting Mitra's response. [If Mitra agrees] Evelyn takes Mitra's hand, gently pulling her away from Xerxes and leaves the group, glancing at them momentarily with her head downcast. She doesn't lead Mitra to the house but further around the tree, so they are not only out of hearing but also out of sight... EDIT: will pm conversation....

Mitra doesn't looked surprised by E's demand for a conversation as the cleric turns she swallows with a silent gulp. [i:12a66b2m]Here we go.[/i:12a66b2m] She thinks to herself, following the woman.

"Mitra's right, it is getting late, I'm going to get to sleep. don't forget to wake me up for my watch" X settles himself on his bedrool, still wearing his studded leather armor, a sheathed longsword on his lap and a torch on the ground beside him as he leans back and closes his eyes.

Evelyn and Mitra return a short while later. Evelyn smiles to those who are still awake, nodding her head to Val and Posta, who are on first watch. "Wake me up when its my turn to watch," she says softly to Val in passing. She gives Mitra a small hug, before making her way to her things and settles down. Unrolling her blanket she puts her things to one side and lays down. With her arms folded behind her head, she looks beyond the tree branches, up to the dark sky above, deep in thought.

Pos says 'Certainly will, and I'll keep a good sharp look out for any trouble'.

"As you wish, mylady." Val answers her silently. "So it's up to us now." he turns to Pos while taking his bow, just to be prepared.

As Evelyn takes Mitra off, Zinnaella returns her focus to the main party. She approaches Xerxes and says, "Thanks for admitting the truth on your own. Many would have either never done so, or waited until it was too late anyway. Your past is in the past, your choice to leave has pointed you in a new direction with us." Zinnaella gives Xerxes a smile, letting him know she had no issues with his need to lie earlier. As Mitra and Evelyn return from their rather quick discussion, Zinnaella glances over and sees the women part ways. As everyone seems ready to bunker down for the night, she prepares for bed as well. She sets up her bedroll, but then rises and heads around the tree, past Tathza to the back side of the tree.

"thanks zin, I appreciate that"

Evelyn gazes at the dark sky above her, oblivious to her surrounds. As the held back emotions begin to surface and release with her focus, single tears begin to run slowly down her face, yet she does not even notice them. The sky becomes darker in her vision and without even realizing it, her eyes close and she slips in to gentle sleep.

((OOC - damn, I knew I forgot to ask something...)) As Zinnaella turns away from Xerxes, she has a thought and looks back. "So, do we call you Xerxes still, or Octavian?"

"I'd prefer to use my real name, Xerxes was never mine to begin with and I'm ready to stop hiding behind it. Everyone I knew used to call me Tav, so whatever you like best, Tav or Octavian. Thank you for the consideration Zin"

Zinnaella nods to Tav and then moves to her chosen spot for the night. ((later...)) Zinnaella returns from around the tree, walking much easier and relaxed now. She takes her spot at her bedroll and lies down, relieved that the tree was large enough to provide privacy.

Pos looks at Tav in a curious way, raising an eyebrow he say's "Well h'mmm we all have skeletons in our closet, some of us even great big lich's in our closets." "But we need the people and people like you lot are hard to find, or so i'm told. You seem ok to me, so Tav it is then" At that he looks at the sky and starts to whistle until he realises some people want to sleep so stops and whistles in his head instead.

Mitra sits next to the fire pushing the exhaustion out of her body as if it was nothing, which in fact to her it was nothing. The woman deserved to have the choice and not be caged, but she hoped that she would learn like any bird that sometimes the cage is there for protection not because she wanted to keep her locked up. The door would remain open if she choose to come back. The others slumbered unaware what had transpired but when the awoke in there own time she would be able to do nothing but watch. She sighed it was going to be tough but some how at the end of it all, they would be back to normal. She poked the fire with a stick and then relaxed watching over the camp.

In the Capital City of Turan, animosity ebbed like the tides between the various priests, disciples, and members of godly groups. The Temple Square, as it is called by city folk, was abnormally quiet. In the 100 meter long rectangular square dominated by Perun's Fountain people bustled into and out of the the temples that lined the lawn but spoke not to each other. Houses of major or minor deities were centers of discussion, debate, and plans, some of which were not inclusive of their like minded or even allied brethren. Whispers spoke that Dahzbog Gerovit, God of the Sun, God of War, God of the Calamities brought by Heat and Drought, was ascending, superseding the rights and power of the other Gods in a bid for preeminence. And with the fall of the sun, the Night rose. Temperatures dropped precipitously to just above freezing. Had Koleda, the God of Winter, of burning frost, of dying warmth, joined with Dahzbog Gerovit? Were the Gods at War? In the frigid night, the Katz of Koleda strode through the cold as if it were nothing. Indeed to the woman who held the highest position of Koleda's Circle, it was like a blanket of power. She bristled with it and the air shimmered along her form. She descended into a small sunken circle of prayer lined by marble bricks and hidden by trees fighting for life in a little park in the midst of the coppersmith's quarter. Another waited for her approach. She expected the Katz of Dahzbog Gerovit. She expected a quiet discussion of plans for the future of the divine sector in the Capital. She expected something else. The Assassin turned and nodded to her. He gave her a moment to recognize him, to acknowledge what this was, to know she was but a soul that had forgotten its flesh was withered. Then the Katz of Koleda was dead. Under the White Tree's up-reaching branches of Bila Strom, the little party of haphazardly acquainted travelers ate a dinner fit for leaders of men. Dahzbog Gerovit let slip the sun beneath the horizon and in the night cold fell like a hammer. The water in their breaths issued from their mouths like thin smoke, curling like a billow of clouds in front of their teeth. Layers would be required to still flesh quivering from the cold hand of Koleda. Snow began to fall. Thin flakes. Change had come, but in no usual fashion. The days would burn and the nights would freeze. In the deep of night under a clouded sky, the cold dark wrapped arms around the White Tree. The first watch was relieved by the second. Time was not certain, but the middle hour was near. Those with dark vision see it first, but those without see it soon after. Little points of light begin to converge on the little hut. Bobbing and dancing through the grass and forming a circle of light of muted colors around the little hut. Then these little points of light rise into the air directly over the little house, a seething ball of darting stars. In an instant, they rise a little higher and then crash upon the little house. Rebounding from the little house itself, the little lights either attack again alone or coalesce into larger grouping. Some are reflected from the house in crazy spirals. Near the end of the flight, these rebuffed points of brilliance fade until they wink out and the dark night takes them. ((I know Eve, Val, and Zinn are in the second watch. This happens well after the change when the first watch would likely be sleeping. But it is up to you to RP. The site of the little house is some 50 or so meters from the base of the tree.))

[This Occurs at the start of second watch] As the three sit down for their turn of watch, Evelyn finds herself agitated. She listens to the quiet conversation between them, but doesn't take much interest. After a short while, Evelyn turns to Val and whispers softly, "Val, I must talk with Zinnaella about Mitra. I'm sorry, but it's girl talk... Could you give us a few moments?" [assuming Val is ok with it] She takes Zinnaella a little away, out of hearing but not out of sight of him, not wanting to put their watch in jeopardy. [will PM questions] Their discussion, over they return and Eve sits down and whispers to him, "Thank you Val, there are some things that can only be said to another woman. I hope you won't take offence." [MIDDLE OF WATCH?] [as Eve is the only one with darkvision, I will assume she may have saw it first] Eve stares at the collecting lights and immediately says in a hushed whisper to them both, "The house! look!"

Zinnaella rose as she was woken for her turn at the watch. Her sleep had been sound, as she was quite tired from the day's travel. She stifled a slight yawn and rose, taking a look around. Most of the group still slept and Posta had moved on to wake Evelyn before going to bed himself. Zinnaella quickly felt the chill that had come on in the night and so she grabbed her bedroll and took it with her as she took up a spot in a crook of the tree where she could watch a larger area with the tree more protecting her back. She took a seat and draped her bedroll over her for added warmth as her watch began. As Evelyn calls her over, she rises again and follows the woman, keeping her bedroll draped over her shoulders to stay warm. Once they finish, she returns as well and takes a seat with the other two. She remains quiet, focusing her ears for the sounds of any approaching trouble, hoping that Evelyn's eyesight will also provide ample warning. Although cold, she did find this time of the evening quite wonderful. The chill actually invigorated her a little, and the darkness of the middle of the night wrapped itself around Zinnaella like an additional cloak - providing a sense of security that was able to ward off part of the cold. As Evelyn spoke of the house, Zinnaella rose and moved to where she could see the house and the lights. "Were those lights attacking the house? Is that like what the insects did?"

((I should clarify. As the little house is a fair distance away (almost 3x Eve's vision in feet), it is not as if Eve with darkvision sees more. She simply sees it first. What they see is still fairly indistinct, but in the deep night, those little lights blaze brightly and those that watch can easily infer what is happening. Also, I could not, maybe I missed it, discern whether you continue feeding a small fire in the face of the cold or let it burn down and bury it before full dark. Please RP one way or another.)) ((Evelyn, although, still has darkvision. Please make a spot check.))

((yep that's how I saw it aswell- that eve may only have seen it sooner not better - think camp light would be minimal as we made a point of making a fire that wouldnt be seen so easily i think.)) Evelyn replies to Zinnaella, "Yes I think so..." She turns to Val, " Did you see what that was, was it the bugs again?" To both she says, "should we wake the others or wait to see if anything more happens first?" (Evelyn wonders if the lights could be natural like fireflies or something, a second wave of futile attacks, hence not having the instant urge to wake the party up regardless - also realize the lights are probably too far to distinguish detail - ie is it a bug - but hopes their movements might reveal something) Evelyn's spot check [dice:qhbu9s2m] 20+5 [/dice:qhbu9s2m] (EDIT: If Zinnaella is moving forward abit, so will Evelyn, as it would be hard to whisper a conversation about the house if much distance is between them) ((Im about to go on long flight so offline probably for a bit - if the spot check reveals anything new - can you assume Evelyn tells Val and Zinn))

((Once Evelyn does note something, that's when Zinnaella moves over to the house as I stated. She would not be able to see much at all from the original distance and moved over closer to see what was going on.)) ((Spot check and Sense Motive check to determine the actions of the lights.))[dice:39rv7zx5]1d20+5,1d20+5[/dice:39rv7zx5] "I see no reason to wake the others just yet, let's see what happens." Zinnaella responds to Evelyn.

Mitra has kept the fire going even against the freezing cold of night and the snow melts before it even hits the pit. She takes no action when the watchers become animated by the lights at the house or so she presumes by the conversation. She lays close to the fire but her eyes gleam from the warm slight glow of the fire. She even took no action when E walked off with Zinnaella. She pulled her blanket over her shoulders and watched patiently.

When Eve asks Val about some privacy, he simply nods and watches her go. [i:xx67s2g4]Secrets make women women[/i:xx67s2g4] After a while they both come back and Eve notices something near the house. "Are those simply insects like firelies or is it something magical ?" he asks the other as they approach the small house. Val only takes a quick look before concentrating back on his night watch duty. ((Spot and search check)) [dice:xx67s2g4]20+2[/dice:xx67s2g4] [dice:xx67s2g4]20[/dice:xx67s2g4]

Evelyn the Good concentrates. The lights are of various hues, unlike those of a firefly. And, they fly with far more control, hovering one moment and then darting the next. By what she sees, Evelyn does not think these are mere night bugs that have grouped for a second attack on the little house. These little lights are something different. They move with grace and purpose. The fluidity of the onslaught mesmerizing and in some ways a beauty its own. The others can see little else or determine much more from there present position. (Zinn, I'm not sure how close you go. If you could move your icon or state the distance, I would appreciate it. As in, do you move close enough to figure out what the lights are or, say, just to within 50 or 30 feet? Val, search check? As in the roots, walking around the base of the tree?)

[quote="GeneT":ksczlt0g](Zinn, I'm not sure how close you go. If you could move your icon or state the distance, I would appreciate it. As in, do you move close enough to figure out what the lights are or, say, just to within 50 or 30 feet?)[/quote:ksczlt0g] ((Sorry about that - close enough to see the lights easily but not on top of the house. Say about 25 feet from the house - map updated.))

((It would seem by the map that Val'antha and Zinnaella move to investigate the lights. Although, Val's post didn't really state such an intention, but I assume such given his placement of the icon. Eve moves out a little toward the little house. Mitra stays put. The rest are either asleep off watch or have stated no action (Tathza.))) The land is relatively flat out from the Great Tree. The brown grasses grow short, no higher than just below one's knees, due to the dry burning weather. Little bits of snow lace the blades of grass and those nearer the little house and the tumult of lights sparkle because of it. Val'antha and Zinnaella (unless Val retracts his positioning) slowly approach the little house. Despite the moonless and cloud covered sky, the small darting lights illuminate the area in a subtle glow. They note the following. 1. A little light, a soft blue, hurtles out near them in a tumbling flight before catching itself and halting briefly before them, at about ten feet. The little light is a very small humanoid appearing creature with long thin arms and legs and a set of 3 hornet like wings on either side that whirl in complicated flight. In a flash of determination the little light bolts back against the house. There is a far amount of noise around the little house. Little voices shouting and chanting. Initially this sounds like a buzzing as you move closer then more distinctly voices speaking a language similar to elven but not the same. 2. A figure laying low to the ground seems to be crawling up on the ground toward the house. It is too dark to see it as other than a lump of darkness, but it is man sized and thin bony arms part the grasses as it crawls. You and it note each other simultaneously as it stops abruptly when you get close enough for the glow of the little lights to slightly illuminate your silhouettes. No other party member can is aware of 1 or 2. Evelyn does not see either, nor the crawling lump. She may make a spot check to see the lump, but the distance even with dark vision is great, approx 115 feet away. Distance can be figured from top panel leftward into right of bottom panel.

Zinnaella remains where she is, her gaze aimed at the little house. "It is so strange," she says softly to Val, "it sounds like these things are chanting or something. Val, why don't you get Evelyn over here to see if she can tell what's going on, it is rather intriguing." Zinnaella tries to keep the attention on the house and the strange light beings, but in fact she watches the man sized figure out of the corner of her eye. She figures he is there to cause trouble, based on the way it is moving and the lack of any other reason to be crawling though the grass. But on the off chance it's not trouble - she wants to give it a chance. She squats down to get a little closer look at the house and the light creatures, using the movement to disguise an attempt to slip a dagger out and into her palm. ((Spot check to keep track of the figure and Slight of hand check to get dagger in hand))[dice:14ltzmmg]1d20+5,1d20+9[/dice:14ltzmmg]

Tathza was well rested and had gladly been left alone. He had picked a good spot it seemed as no one had bothered him and nothing had come for him. He would have to wait for the humans to get their long rest over with but this just meant more time to enjoy the night, with the few stars that got thru the clouds. Tathza whispered to the night in Aquan. "Let the stars fall into your depths only to rise once more to flow thru us all"

Zinnaella. The little Fae attack the house with abandon. Some hit the house so hard the bounce to the ground and writhe around before stilling and their light goes out. The little house's bird legs come alive and roll the house this way and that in evasion, sometimes the great claws snapping at attacking Fae. A large group mass and settle on the roof, their combined might rolling an edge of the roof back for just a moment. Golden light spills over from inside in that instant before those Fae upon the roof loose their hold and strength. The masses formation falls apart and the Fae scatter to fly above the house, swirling in ever faster circles. Some do not make it off the roof, speared by the thorns of the seeds used as shingles. The dark form rises to its knees and crawls opposite the house from Zinnaella. It is so hard to tell. Male or female. Some sort of stick is grasped in the left hand. The figures hands tremble or move, the finger joints jumping like crickets. ((Val please post whether you fetch Evelyn as Zinn kneels before the house.)) ((Zinnaella. Listen check. Will Save Please.))

[quote="GeneT":18w94jlh]((Zinnaella. Listen check. Will Save Please.))[/quote:18w94jlh] [dice:18w94jlh]1d20,1d20[/dice:18w94jlh]

Whispers fall over Zinnaella. Deep they reach into her soul. Dark fingers clutching, finding purchase in the shadows of her will, the doubts. Mari is a weak little girl. Small and insignificant. Her life forfeit. He soul thin, so very thin. She is nothing. Death would be better. Mari is not fit to live. Isabelle's sacrifice so badly spent. The child ill-gotten. Kill it. Strangle it. Cut it. Before the house, a small girl kneels. She will not move. She will not stray. Paralyzed by her own insignificance, by the truth that she is unworthy.

Val and Eve. Please state last actions as would be appropriate this round. We move to more traditional rounds from here. Please play IC as you think you would. Zinn is 'held' before the house, but that state should be relatively unapparent for the moment.

(Had intended Eve to follow Zinnaella- apologies for not making that more clear) (will assume for consistency Eve has held back now) Evelyn whispers to Mitra, I'm going to investigate the house with the others." Natural curiousity draws her to walk toward the house. Evelyn sees, Zinnaella kneel before the house, as she had before earlier that day. Not wanting to disturb her incase, like Evelyn only a few hours before, is interacting with the house, in some way, she tries to take the scene in instead and understand it in more detail, holding back perhaps 20 or so feet behind zinnaella. (Spot check for details or anything out of the ordinary around the house area that could be surmised from such a spot - ie not necessarily Zinn if you feel its not obvious on observation) [dice:vlnqc9jr] 20+5 [/dice:vlnqc9jr]

Val was fascinated by those lights that seemed to be fearies. After a few moments he realizes that Zinn had spoken to him. "Eve ? Yes... I will get her..." He makes a sign to her to come and returns near Zinn.

Mitra nods "Okay, stay safe, those lights might be Will-o-the-Wisps, or something similar." She stays by the fire while the others go to view the house as there is no telling if something might attack the slumbering party members while they were so far out.

"Will-o-wisps!" gasps Evelyn. "Thank you Mitra dear, I had not considered that." Evelyn, thanked herself for speaking to Mitra, before setting out, she had not considered there could be a direct danger to themselves linked with the lights and had assumed them to be simply bystanders to the spectacle. "If that's the case," Evelyn adds biting her lip, "I will give you a call the moment I see danger, so that you can warn the party. If not vocal, I will raise my left arm as a signal warning, if I see things as suspicious." She smiles at Mitra, before nodding to Val, as she sets off. (same as previous post, except alot more cautious than before - looking out for danger - Evelyn listens to Mitra - and errs on side of caution)

The shadow stands. A gnarled naked woman, hair unkept and tangled, skin covered by some dirt or mud or something else. A crooked staff in her right hand made of the femur bones of men tied together by sinew. She stamps the ground with the staff three times, words like steam issuing from her mouth. The small hairs on the Evelyn the Good's neck stand straight and a chill runs down her spine. People know Vecer, the God of Change, of Transitioning Souls, the Boatman. Vecer is the guide of souls, showing them the way to an afterlife or continuing journey, judging them in some way to assign their Passage Fee. But there is another who claims dominion over the dead. His name is rarely spoke aloud unless by a Bard telling bleak tales before a fire. The Guileless Eye. Eater of Souls, LifeStealer. A God that slips into the dark of night and takes souls unready for death to add to those rightly given over to him due to the evilness of their living. A devout of Vecer brings forth an un-living to assist them with a willing soul in transition. The soul is paying their Passage Fee in the act of obeying the summons. They are eager to begin another journey. In the middle distance before Evelyn the Good, Val'anthis, and the prostrate Zinnaella rises an evil thing. An un-living that should not be. The witch screams in delight as it shambles under her will. Inside this abomination, a soul of hate and despair, spite and malice lives. A soul torn from life unwillingly and forced to submission by the Eater. A soul tormented and twisted. An anathema. Evelyn knows this in the core of her spirit. The witch before her follows a God opposed to Vecer. A God of the Malice, Hate, and Evil. An Usurper of Life and Destroyer of Hope. ((The Witch performs a summoning. Those present.....you're go. Round 1 of Zinn's paralyzation.)) ((Edit 1 : Zinnaella please roll will save. Sorry I forgot and I wanted to insure accurate metagame guesses at what is happening.))

((since the witch screams, I'm making a sleeping listen check)) [dice:1r2p4fyx]1d20-10[/dice:1r2p4fyx]

((Pos also makes a listen check in sleep for the screem)) [dice:beujrvp4]1d20-11[/dice:beujrvp4]

Tathza hears a sound that does not match the night. He dust himself off and thinks "Saw that coming" Tathza walks at a brisk pace and once he clears his hiding place he take in the strange image. He shakes his head as he runs to get a closer look. They should have just left things well enough alone and they did not even bother to wake each other the moment this event took place.

[quote="GeneT":16qzyb0y]((Edit 1 : Zinnaella please roll will save. Sorry I forgot and I wanted to insure accurate metagame guesses at what is happening.))[/quote:16qzyb0y] [dice:16qzyb0y]1d20[/dice:16qzyb0y]

Evelyn's eyes narrow as the realization of this hateful woman's faith becomes known to her. A feeling of pure anger roars through her body, that she quickly suppresses with cold efficiency. Her left arm raises, momentarily, as a signal, though the scream from the woman is enough she is sure. Holding her symbol of Vecer tightly in her fist, she chants soft words, in a dark, warning tone. Words full of coldness, words full, with the promise of death. As negative energy, surges around her like an unseen wind, she senses the spirit that answers to her summons and a cold wind appears near to Zinnaella, infront of the lumbering creature. Screams can be heard as the spirit transforms into solid bone. Thrusting through the ground, yet no actual ground is shaken, a skeletal humanoid appears, wielding a wicked scimitar, it's eyes burning red fires, glaring hatred at the lumbering undead creature before them. [summon undead 1 - x1 skeletal humanoid - cast time 1 rd -will act round 2]

"It seems that this night won't be calm" "We are under attack, everybody get up !" Val yells while loosing an arrow. [If the house doesn't cover the witch and Val can see her, he attacks her. Otherwise he attacks the other enemy/summon?] [dice:wwfd14s8]20+5[/dice:wwfd14s8] [dice:wwfd14s8]10[/dice:wwfd14s8]

[i:17lzvx4r]Here we go![/i:17lzvx4r] She could smell the acrid smell of death and magic which could only mean that the others had met something worth using there power. Mitra watched the drow go running past the others and towards the fight. [i:17lzvx4r]Oh yeah I can really count on him to wake these two up. Well sorry gentlemen but it's going to be a rude awakening.[/i:17lzvx4r] She uses her powers to shape an armor around her body and as she does she lets the power work freely not squelching it's less than subtle abilities, her eyes glow blue with an inner fire and her sleeping companions all hear clearly in there minds an audibal ping sound which raises them from there slumber. "We are under attack over there!" She shouts at the others as they raise there weary heads, she points towards the lights and the shadows of their party as they dance in the glow of lucid colours. {Psionic Power - Inertial Armour +4 Armor Bonus}

Zinnaella notes the events unfolding, but doesn't seem to move a muscle in response. The shadow rises and screeches in a cruel voice - yet she does not cower. She sees two undead figures rise before her - yet she does not flinch. She hears the shouts of her companions as they rise everyone to action - yet she remains as though waiting. Zinnaella sees and hears all happening around her - yet none of it properly registers in her mind. She can only sense the actions around her as though they were part of a hellish dream. Deep down she knows that she is powerless here before this attack and that she will die. She escaped death before, but this time there was no protection, no savior, no hope. There is no reason to even try anything. Nothing to fight for, nothing to live for. Although Zinnaella's body does not move in the slightest, on the inside she is collapsing - falling into a deep well.

Pos hears a scream (rolled natural 20 on listen check, see above) and hears Val shouting, he wakes thinking What the heck. Quickly he gets to his feet and looks to where the danger is. (I'm assuming that's about all I can do in the waking up round)

Tav wakes with a start, shouts echoing through the night air, his blood pulses as his heart races, he tastes the adrenaline, and the hairs on his neck rise with him as he grips his sword pommel.

The summons of both the witch and Evelyn the Good fully form. Fae continue to battle the little house as larger folk prepare for their own struggle. The witch twitches and whispers. She seeks the soul of a Chosen of Vecer to feed to her God. She becomes animated shrieking to herself and unseen voices. "Kill. Kill. Kill," she screams at her shambling mass of half-life. Zinnaella continues to kneel mutely by the house and has not changed position or acknowledged the happenings. ((Post your actions for Round Three. Zinn roll another Will save. A guest player is going to run the Witches un-living.))

[quote="GeneT":3gq5msxw]((Post your actions for Round Three. Zinn roll another Will save. A guest player is going to run the Witches un-living.))[/quote:3gq5msxw] ((Come on good roll... EDIT: or not...))[dice:3gq5msxw]1d20[/dice:3gq5msxw]

The dice have no favorite and, it seems, are particularly not found of Zane. Also, I like the yellow counters to show proposed movements dependant on initiative results. I cleared last rounds on the map.

Mitra hitches up her skirt and carries on running as fast as she can towards the group. As she goes her mind is cool and calm unlike her movement, it reaches into her well of power and flicks another defense into place. a dark shimmer appears and then disappears just as quickly almost floating in the air no one was close by so she surmisses that they would not have heard the pop sound. {Force Screen - +4 AC, another Power Point bites the dust.}

The Witches Zombie moans as he follows his orders to kill. Being the mindless creature he is he attacks Evelyn's Skeleton. ((Zombie Slams on Skeleton for.....)) [dice:10dkkrky]1d8[/dice:10dkkrky]

((forgot to roll to hit)) [dice:2gofivxw]1d20+6[/dice:2gofivxw]

Tav gets up, pulling on his shield and stepping out towards the action ((move action to get up, move action to ready the shield, 5ft step))

"Attack the pitiful spawn of undeath." Evelyn orders in a cold tone, pointing at the shambling undead creature before the crouching skeleton. She sees the shambling undead creature swing at her soldier, but fortunately misses, as her favoured one, slices it's scimitar in a retributive strike. (To hit) [dice:23xkukfs] 20+1 [/dice:23xkukfs] The swing goes wide and slight disapointment touches her soul. 'no matter', she thinks to herself, it is still fulfilling it's purpose. She suppresses again the burning anger that dwells in her soul as she looks upon the shambling damnation and a strength surges through her, like a cool breeze through her hair. Clutching her holy symbol once again ,she raises her free hand, her fingers, slightly contorted as words slip from her mouth of in cold deathly tones. REBUKE ATTEMPT [dice:23xkukfs] 20+5 [/dice:23xkukfs] (EDIT: sorry should be a +6 so 24) (means can rebuke undead cleric lvl +4 so 6 hit dice undead affected i think) REBUKING/TURNING DAMAGE [dice:23xkukfs] 2d6+6 [/dice:23xkukfs] (great! - 12 hit die turned) (hoping that's a success so adding this...) Vecer's wrath, flows through her body as it twists and converges onto the shambling undead, with a tempest's fury. As her mind relaxes from the completion of her chant, only then as her focus returns, does she realize, [i:23xkukfs] 'Zinnaella!!'[/i:23xkukfs] Something is wrong, she knows it in her heart, for the rogue has not moved, since she arrived, [i:23xkukfs]so unlike her.[/i:23xkukfs] As quickly as she can, she races to her side. [command free action / rebuke standard action / move action to Zinnaella] [if rebuked = Effect and Duration of Turning: Turned/rebuked undead flee from you by the best and fastest means available to them for 10 rounds (1 minute).]

After moving towards the trouble Pos gathers the energies from within himself and from around himself as a bright force flows from his hand and travels to hit it's target. (Magic missile at Witch if I can see her otherwise the zombie, if I can't see either then don't do this action) damage: [dice:ncpcx6b8]1d4+1[/dice:ncpcx6b8]

The witch squeals in delight at seeing Evelyn the Good summon an un-living. She hops around on each foot chittering and chattering. Raising her hand to the sky she screams to the darkness. One of Vecer's Chosen stands in front of her. She will have its soul. She will bind its will. She will offer it up to her dread God. She grasps the air in front of her and wrings it as if strangling the wind itself. Rattling her staff and opening he hand, she flings the nothingness in her hand at her un-living. It shambles straighter, strengthened. Menace in its eyes. [dice:2otc8e9s]1d20+6[/dice:2otc8e9s] The witch attempts to bolster its un-living.

Tathza slows down. He thinks that their is no need to rush in like a fool. Tathza takes in everything and spots the two enemies. The undead was not important but the witch would have to go. Tathza speaks "Arcaniss Ner" and with an almost lazy but practiced hand movement fires a shining dart that weaves thru the air. [dice:3epzjfex]1d4+1[/dice:3epzjfex] (I was tired of missing all the time lol edit: but it looks like dmg still sucks -.-)

Zinnaella struggles fruitlessly against the her invisible bonds. They tighten and pressure against her. She fails again to release herself. Mitra moves out from the Great White Tree to help the others, an invisible shield of force strengthening her. The witches un-living scrambles to obey reaching out to slaughter anything in its path. Horrid arms of flesh, bone, and earth sweep by Evelyn's calling and miss. Tav rouses himself and unwilling to enter battle unprepared dons his shield. His friends and comrades could suffer under these few precious seconds. Evelyn the Good reaches out to shatter the witch's hold over her summoned minion, but the witch counters with incredible force. She is stronger than Evelyn, longer under the toil of her God, longer acquiring souls to do her bidding. The hulking un-living under her control shudders with Evelyn's attempt but is unmoved in its hatred. Evelyn tries in vane to awaken Zinnaella. The thief is as stiff as Bila Strom's wide trunk, unmoving except the quiet sound of her breathing. Her eyes dilate as if understanding glimmers there. Death alone awaits her at its leisure. Tathza spits back with a small dart. He gets the witch's attention, but she waves away his attack like one would a bothersome gnat and fixes him with a baleful gaze. Mutterings and darkness from her lips. Sounds become muffled to Tathza and they fade more as her spell begins. The periphery of his sight begins to blacken. He can still caste, but knows the witch settles on him. ((Tathza at some point make a Fort save and...Good Luck)) Postavicka is just out of range for his spell to work, so he holds it in waiting as he moves forward. The snow swirls lightly as the battle begins. Small flashing lights attack the little house. A few detach and circle Zinnaella, landing on her head and arm, pulling on hair and clothe. But it is a vane effort for things so small. They form together and bound off the thief shooting like a star against the witch. ((Next round. Zinn make a save. Tathza, as noted, make a fort save somewhere in the body of your post.))

Tathza see's the witchs actions and narrows his eyes with rage along with respect. He walks towards the witch watching her and cast a spell of sleep. Tathza's hands shift in arcane gestures and the rose petals in his hand are consumed by the magic as he speaks the final word "Ssifisv" (I used S to show the area of effect for the sleep spell and its centered on the witch) Spellcraft [dice:9hg4sdii]1d20+9[/dice:9hg4sdii] Tathza is hit by something from the witch. Fort Save (if and when) [dice:9hg4sdii]1d20+3[/dice:9hg4sdii] (>.<)

((LOL. Finally a good roll, but you are not hit just yet. Her spell is in the making. You can still act and depending on init I'll figure what happens. I do also believe that you can try and figure out what she is doing.))

[quote="GeneT":25zbg2o9]((Next round. Zinn make a save. Tathza, as noted, make a fort save somewhere in the body of your post.))[/quote:25zbg2o9] [dice:25zbg2o9]1d20[/dice:25zbg2o9]

Evelyn bites down her disapointment and feels a tiny amount of aprehension as her rebuking chant does not overcome the powerfully bolstered undead minion. She realizes any further attempts would simply be in vain, her aprehension, rises as she begins to also realize the strength of this servant of Maro. As she reaches, Zinnaella, she sees the rogue in a comatose like trance. Apart from soft breathing, she is as still as death. Uncertainty rises in her heart as she realizes, the witch could easily banish her soldier as she had tried to do with hers and should be strengthening her own as a result. But as she looks at Zinnaella, she realizes her choice had already been made, her cleric vows to protect, and could not simply stand by without trying to free her from her deathly slumber and try to unravel the evil spell that has been woven around her. Whispering a soft chant, she finishes her spell as she places her hand on the rogue's head, momentarily closing her eyes upon saying the final prayer. [casts protection from evil, +2 ac +2 saves - suppresses mental controls and enchantment (charm) and enchantment (compulsion) effects for duration of spell - but does not keep out possession - if already possessed - though can keep out future attempts] - plus no summoned creature can approach her - ie zombie]

Still with her dress hitched up, Mitra's legs pound as fast as they can, along the flat hard ground toward the scene of battle, she realizes she cant get in range with her spell, so stops just outside, for her own protection. [does anyone know if you can spend power points to extend the range of a spell? - if you do let me know and ill edit this so Mitra can cast her spell - if not will attack next round- will research] [Cant extend spell range as far as we know - so Mitra WONT attack this round]

(Skeleton attack) to hit [dice:3t0kn22n] 20+1 [/dice:3t0kn22n] the skeleton's scimitar slices angrily at the shambling undead minion, but the creature easily sways out of the wicked blade's reach. (EDIT: ive not made a spellcraft roll on witch as I thought Eve was too busy with other things - however just realised - if the witch's spell is a 1 full round casting time - she might have a chance to notice the spell's intention at the end of her go so spellcraft check (if spell is 1 full round casting time) [dice:3t0kn22n] 20+1 [/dice:3t0kn22n]

Groaning deeper and louder from the increase of power the zombie sways away from the skeletal attack, then attempts another slam on the skeleton. to hit [dice:269rmu4v]1d20+6[/dice:269rmu4v] damage [dice:269rmu4v]1d8[/dice:269rmu4v] ((i'm not sure of the correct die to roll since the zombie was bolstered, please adjust accordingly.))

Zinnaella remains still yet again, unmoving amidst the frenzy of combat raging around her. Her vision sees the two undead battling each other - although neither seems to be doing any good at all. The vision of the screeching witch rises before her vision, filling her mind with dread and fear. There is no hope, all is lost. Death has arrived and will not let Zinnaella escape, not this time. Fire burning, the bright light in the darkness flooded her mind's eye as the heat rolls over her face. Two screams ring out in the air, one high pitched than the other. Zinnaella cowers under the screams knowing that the mean the end for the owners. Zinnaella turns from the fiery inferno to be sucked into a void. Death had arrived, there was no escape. Zinnaella lower her head, ready to allow herself to be taken. She starts moving toward the void, drawn in. A hand touches her, anchors her, denying the void its subject. Zinnaella looks to see what is saving her to ask why, but can only see a shadowy form aiding her. The shadow gives her some hidden strength, providing a possible way out. The void calls her, but the call seems weaker now. It is her time, but maybe there might be hope, might be a way to hold off death until later. Zinnaella can't get excited, it seems like such a long shot. It would be easiest to just let it end now, end the suffering, end the pain, end this cheated existence - but the shadow remains at her side, not letting go.

Pos realising that he needs to get a little closer to cast his spell moves forward to the witch and energies again dart from his finger tips towards the witch. (Magic missile at the witch after a move action to the witch, the last one was held. PS Sorry if this ruins the sleep spell but Pos would not know that had been done and DM has not stated the witch has gone down so he would launch his missile. Spell range is 120ft, i'm assuming squares are 5ft each.) Damage: [dice:di06z30f]1d4+1[/dice:di06z30f]

(I may not be able to see the witch with the house in the way and it may be to dark to see her too? If pos can't do the magic missile he will instead cast mage armor on himself)

Tav starts running, his footsteps thumping into the ground competing with the heartbeat in his ears to be heard, he rushes forward and finds himself beside Mitra and starts to close in on the witch, fixing her in his sights. ((run, speed x4, full-round))

Darting at the witch, a phalanx of light attemtps to distract her, hovering in and out of her vision. The witch swats at them with her staff, seemingly annoyed but nothing else. Tathza tries to sleep the witch. The spell centers correctly and Tathza can tell it was well done, but the witch is unaffected. Luckily, he fends of the witch's spell. A higher level blindness and deafness power, one that he can not cast. Evelyn also knows what the witch has tried to do to Tathza. But, the permanent disability is averted. Zinnealla can not free herself on her own, but Evelyn the Good has made it to her side, her spell of protection breaks the curse of paralyzation. Zinnealla is free and blinks her eyes. Mitra positions herself and stands ready for this moment. Xerxis runs, fluid and graceful. His shield and sword arm are in great need. The un-living try to best one another, but each miss. Their odd macabre dance continues. Postavicka skewers the witch with a bright line of power. It weaves around the others and finds its target. The witch shrugs it off and moves toward Val'anthis. Time for blood. Time for power. Time for death. The witch begins casting a spell. ((Zin is free. The witch moves a little and prepares herself.))

Tav charges forward, attacking the witch he tries to slice her open, hopefully stopping whatever spell she's casting ((charging +2 atk, -2 AC, current AC is 15)) [dice:2lhr9kxj]1d20+8[/dice:2lhr9kxj] (edit: confirming crit) [dice:2lhr9kxj]1d20+8[/dice:2lhr9kxj] damage if it hits [dice:2lhr9kxj]1d8+3[/dice:2lhr9kxj] ((I get an extra +2 damage if she's human, but I'm not sure, so use +5 if it applies.)) if the crit hits, then add this damage [dice:2lhr9kxj]1d8+3[/dice:2lhr9kxj]

The undead swing at each other, in their macabre dance, but to no effect. Evelyn feels the unravelling of her spell as it comes to an end. Her servant of Vecer turns to her for a moment, as if demanding more time. But it its time she can not give for she has not yet the power. With a hiss of anguish at the combat unfinished, unseen winds wrap around the skeleton and in a flash, it is thrust back into the ground from whence it came. Evelyn sees Zinnaella's eyes regain focus, the shroud of death lifts and she smiles at the result, "Welcome back," she says, giving the rogue a quick hug. "Now to finish it," she whispers, her eyes narrowing, looking at the witch servant of Maro. Without saying another word, Evelyn slips past Zinnaella, giving her a warm smile as she passes, then runs as fast as she can at the witch, slipping her mace from her waist, arcing it up in the air savagely, the witch firmly in her sight. [cant attack this round but reaches the witch - unless any spell that would prevent that..] [Tav next round you will have flanking bonus. if nothing changes]

Mitra strides forward, ensuring her power is within range. She narrows her eyes as she stares at the erratically moving witch. Lowering her forehead slightly, she focuses her trained mind and with great mental control, thrusts a powerful psionic effect at the witch. [Mind thrust - will negates - DC 15] [damage if successful] [dice:1izojgj7] 1d10 [/dice:1izojgj7]

(Mis-read map before, now moving west not south re-adjusted my postion slightly to take account of that) Pos hears the continued sound of battle ahead and hopes everyone is ok and heads closer to the others before casting mage armor on himself.

Tathza walks closer to the battle but keeps close eye on the witch which he notices has started to cast again and was completly uneffected by his sleep spell. Tathza thinks its time he brings up some of his own defenses and starts to cast magical armor over his form. Tathza's hands swept thru the motions while he holds a small piece of cured leather and speaks the words "Arcaniss Molik" to complete the spell. Spellcraft (the witch's spell) [dice:1uzzv57t]1d20+9[/dice:1uzzv57t]

With the zombie's target falling back into the ground he moves NE to his next target. Moaning and grumbling even more angrily that he has before. He raises his arms to slam again. ((Zombie moves SE squares and attacks)) original rolls were 22 to hit and damage of 6

Val takes a step back before losing an arrow at the witch, taking care not to harm his allies. [dice:266iep67]20+6-4[/dice:266iep67] [dice:266iep67]10+1[/dice:266iep67]

((Roadblock to edit action as the Zombie can not actually attack Zinn unless Zinn attacks it or tries to force him to back away. Dice rolls will stay though.))

Zinnaella feels the shadow wrap around her, cutting off the draw of the void, providing her hope, providing her life. The scenes all flee from Zinnaella's vision and she is once again at the battlefield. Death, fire, screams, the void, the protective shadow - Zinnaella shakes her head, unable to tell what was real and what wasn't. Even now wasn't any easier, but then she hears something, a voice reaches out to her. [i:34b9dfpw]Evelyn.[/i:34b9dfpw] The recognition of the woman slices through all the confusion that is trying to keep hold in Zinnaella's mind. Zinnaella quickly catches her mind up on all that had been happening - the witch rising and casting a spell on her, her companions coming to battle, and even the two unliving that had risen up. But at the center of it all was that witch, she was responsible for everything. Zinnaella easily finds the witch in her sights and moves that way, drawing out her rapier as she does. Upon reaching the witch, Zinnaella slices out with a single swipe. [dice:34b9dfpw]1d20+2,1d6+1[/dice:34b9dfpw]

((As a group, you won initiative. Since the witch is casting a spell, Zinn, Eve, and Taz get AOO))

The witch is battered by the company of arms. Evelyn the Good, Octavian Aurelius IV, and Zinnaella the thief surround the witch and strike. Deep go their combined blows and the witch fumbles as blood springs from her skin. Her spell lost, she staggers and takes a step back.

((AoO attack and damage))[dice:1ansjtmp]1d20+2,1d6+1[/dice:1ansjtmp]

((AoO)) [dice:3oufpnma]1d20+8[/dice:3oufpnma] damage [dice:3oufpnma]1d8+3[/dice:3oufpnma] +5 if she's human and by +5 I mean, instead of +3.

The witch begins to become frantic. What has she done to deserve such a fate? Has Maro forsaken her? Is she lost amidst the world without direction? Or is this his call? Kill and be killed by disciple and I will take you with open arms. Darken the heavens with my prayers. Soil the ground with blood. Stifle the screams of the children and steal from them their future. Forsake the living. Salt the fields with hate. And reap my praise. So goes the ode to Maro. She stands straighter, resolute in the face of her fate. There is indeed no where to run. ((Although I know AOO are to be posted, I do not expect it will kill the witch just yet. So in the object of convenience, I posted the next round. Those pending AOO (E,T,Z), please post in last round and then here.))

Zinnaella quickly follows the witch, crossing in front of Evelyn, twisting her body and spinning to avoid any attacks from the witch as Zinnaella gets behind her. Zinnaella ends one twist of her body with a sudden thrust of her rapier deep into the witch's side. ((Tumble check, then attack, then damage))[dice:1nlnjnou]1d20+11,1d20+2,1d6+1[/dice:1nlnjnou] ((Woot! Crit check and crit damage rolls))[dice:1nlnjnou]1d20+2,1d6+1[/dice:1nlnjnou]

((Ah. It would seem the dice bots have begun to favor the action))

[for simplicity posting AOO here aswell] As Evelyn runs at the witch, the witch's attention is not on her as she mouths her incantations. Evelyn swings her mace as hard as she can, with more anger than she realized she had, [AOO to hit] [dice:3f54cmnk] 20 [/dice:3f54cmnk] (if hit) (sorry forgot flank +2 so is 16 - forget flank bonus - didnt realize witch had moved...) (Damage) [dice:3f54cmnk] 1d8-1 [/dice:3f54cmnk] "Time to meet Vecer!" She yells at her, "[i:3f54cmnk]Bitch![/i:3f54cmnk]" As Zinnaella twists past her, she swings her mace high to avoid hitting the rogue, causing her to spin on her feet in a 360 degree spin, with the momentum and bring the mace around the back of the witch's head, (to hit) [dice:3f54cmnk] 20+2 [/dice:3f54cmnk] the mace swings haphazardly over the witch's head.

Mitra steps back calmly from the zombie, completely unphased by it's savage attack, biting back the immense pain that courses through her body, knowing calm and logic will win out in the end. Knowing her spell would have no effect on it, she turns her attention back to the witch. "Tav, can you help me please" she calls to him, gestering to the attacking zombie. Keeping the witch in her focus, she sees the rogue and priestess swing furiously at the crazed woman. Allowing her mind to refocus on the witch, visible between the gaps of their moving bodies, she concentrates on the witch's mind and when she senses her target, unleashes her fury. [Mind thrust - will negates - DC 15] [damage if successful] [dice:37sf62sx] 10 [/dice:37sf62sx] (EDIT made a mistake with Mitra's armour class - so adjusting this post to fit - A/C is 16) [10 power points left]

Pos thinks he must pick up the pace a bit and moves quicker to the scene of the troubles. He can hear screams and from Mitra he can hear calls for assistance. Perhaps he ought to concentrate on that creature that is attacking the young lady Mitra, she seems such a young lady he thinks, she ought to have kept out of this, such a young lady. Evelyn, her usual protector is away from her. He must help Mitra. He moves his hands, feels the air around him and pushing his palms forward in the direction of the creature as he ushers a missile of force towards the creature. (hustle towards the action and then Magic missile the zombie if i can see it, otherwise hold the spell) damage: [dice:1noplhqk]1d4+1[/dice:1noplhqk]

[i:24rcvcve]It's difficult to hit her when she's surrounded by allies.[/i:24rcvcve] Not wanting to harm his allies, Val takes his time ((and -4 to his attack roll -_-)) before attacking the witch. [dice:24rcvcve]20+6-4[/dice:24rcvcve] [dice:24rcvcve]10+1[/dice:24rcvcve]

((as long as Posta didn't take down the zombie I 5ft step and attack the zombie, otherwise, if the zombie went down from his attack, then I 5ft step towards the witch and attack her instead)) Tav recoils in his mind at the undead abomination that stands before him [i:1ouoyr8i]if something needs doing, you'd best just get it over with...[/i:1ouoyr8i] [dice:1ouoyr8i]1d20+6[/dice:1ouoyr8i] damage [dice:1ouoyr8i]1d8+3[/dice:1ouoyr8i] PS: I posted AoO in previous round PPS: nice rolls Val

Blood seeps from the witch's wounds. She reaches with her bone staff to touch Zinnaella. Black lightening arcs from its tip as it nears the thiefs body. ((Zinnealla attacked the witch. This voids the protection the circle gives her against the witch only.)) [dice:2qb0yri3]1d20+6[/dice:2qb0yri3] [i:2qb0yri3]In the deep dark I call to him bleeder of men healer of the damned. Into you I thrust his will torture the faithful fools of light. Strip their life and bury the shell. [/i:2qb0yri3] Through the staff the witch channels her dark powers. Her master Maro guiding her as the God did in building the staff itself. Wounds blossom upon the thief, boils, lacerations, and burns. Zinnaella's breath is hot with fever brought by the sudden onslaught. The witch's eyes roll to white as she gazes at Zinnaella. The witch looks at Evelyn then, a thin smile on her lips. "Time for Death." (Cause Minor Wounds/Staff Flashback) [dice:2qb0yri3]1d8+5[/dice:2qb0yri3] and [dice:2qb0yri3]1d4[/dice:2qb0yri3] The witch will take a 5 foot step and prepare to run. ((At the moment, the order, via init, is not decided. So please do not take the above in a linear fashion.)

Tathza moves and draws his rapier. His weaker spells would be of little use and his team mates were moveing wildly and would most likely get in the way.

The un-living feels the witch pain. Angered, he lashes out at Tav. Great arms slam together. Crunch bone. Rend Flesh. Life is an affront to it. [dice:248b57ev]1d20+6[/dice:248b57ev] The un-living's arms batter Tav, trying to tear the life from him. [dice:248b57ev]1d8[/dice:248b57ev]

Zinnaella flips and turns, athletic and sinuous, her body weaves through the air like smoke. She slides soundlessly into the witch like a hooded cobra, malice dripping from her rapier like venom. The blade pushes deep into the witch's flesh, wet red when she pulls it free. Evelyn the Good strikes hard as the witch castes her last spell, but her mace swings wide on her next attack. The importance of the missed chance to fall heavily as on the cleric moments later as the witch strikes back. Mitra forces her mind on the witch, but it barely scratches the vile surface of her conscious. Postavicka twists his fingers and adds menace to his comrades strike, bolts of energy weaving through the moving bodies to slam into the witch. Octavius pummels the un-living trying to distract it from Mitra, leaving Evelyn the Good and Zinnaella with the witch. His weapon digs deep, but the undead barely notices. The decision to help the young Mitra solid, but the consequences potentially dire. Staggered, the witch formulates a escape and reaches out against Zinnaella. She watches the thief fall to the ground in gleeful satisfaction before turning to run. The thief is close to death, oh so close. She prays Maro will take the wench, but it is in his hands. Val'anthis fires an arrow at the witch as she prepares to run, the arrow pierces her through the eye in a killing blow. The witch drops to the ground and convulses. So close to death, the arrow is too much for her to take. ((*Edited due to my error of count. Originally the witch was still alive* Zinnaella falls to the witch's strike. Life ebbs from her. Next round. This is the 4th round the undead have been present. I believe Evelyn forgot to have her undead attack or did I miss it?))

Seeing the witch go down Octavian presses the attack on the undead [dice:35r80yrr]1d20+6[/dice:35r80yrr] if it hits [dice:35r80yrr]1d8+3[/dice:35r80yrr]

((Alas I made a mistake in viewing Val's total TH roll and have asked Xerxis to repost/retype his action keeping his rolls. Apologies))

"NO!!" Evelyn shrieks, as the rogue, slides to the ground, in a deathly slumber. Her normally soft voice sounding grated and broken. She rushes forward, whispering the word '[i:qeggp7jz]Vitr'[/i:qeggp7jz], as she touches the fallen girl, with her free hand, letting positive energy rush into her. [heal] [dice:qeggp7jz] 1d8+3 [/dice:qeggp7jz] (didnt see the amend - and didnt realise the witch fell to Val's arrow so amending post below to fit) Mace still in hand she swings it furiously with all her might at the witch servant of Maro on the ground [i:qeggp7jz]"DIE BITCH!!"[/i:qeggp7jz] she yells, her voice cracking and lungs hoarse from the loudness of her voice. Evelyn glances at Zinnaella's still form and something inside her snaps. Glaring, she turns to the fallen witch, kicking her prone body onto her back and raises her mace, high to the sky and whispering a silent word brings it full force onto the witch's face, blow after blow, each time raising the mace above her head, her eyes wide and uncontrollable, her long silver hair flying wildly about her. [b:qeggp7jz]WHACK![/b:qeggp7jz] [i:qeggp7jz]"Grovel back to your pathetic GOD!!..."[/i:qeggp7jz] [b:qeggp7jz]WHACK!![/b:qeggp7jz] [i:qeggp7jz] "...you MISERABLE!!...."[/i:qeggp7jz] [b:qeggp7jz]CRACK![/b:qeggp7jz] [i:qeggp7jz]"...STUPID!!...[/i:qeggp7jz] [b:qeggp7jz]CRACK!!![/b:qeggp7jz] [i:qeggp7jz]"....WHORE!!!..."[/i:qeggp7jz] [b:qeggp7jz] SPLINTER!![/b:qeggp7jz] [i:qeggp7jz]"...AND THIS!!..."[/i:qeggp7jz] [b:qeggp7jz]CRACK!!!![/b:qeggp7jz] [i:qeggp7jz] "...IS FOR HER!!?!"[/i:qeggp7jz] [b:qeggp7jz]SQUELCH!![/b:qeggp7jz] her chest heaves heavily from the exertion. The witch's head is mashed in like a crushed pumpkin. Evelyn wipes long silver hair from her face, inadvertently wiping blood splatters from her face at the same time. She notices her companions looks and says in a softer more controlled voice, "She made a poor choice in her faith...and has now paid the price.." there is venom in her voice and she almost spits the words as she speaks. She is shaking from the action and a look of grief appears on her face as she rushes to Zinnaella's side thinking her dead. She drops her mace and falls to her knees, picking up the girl's head carefully and whispers, [i:qeggp7jz]"Zinnaella?"[/i:qeggp7jz] She feels for a pulse to see if, the fallen girl, has already been met by her god and has taken her on what would be her grandest journey. [cure light wounds locket - free action (have guessed as zinnaella falls prone doesnt need a to hit roll? - plus an ally so wouldnt dodge her anyway?- mace attack standard action + 5' step] ((Eve's summoned undead only lasts 2 rounds (2nd lvl character - so disappeared last round after second attack)) ((EDIT: I realize the face mashing thing has probably taken more than one round of combat - but rather than split it amongst several round topics and lose its effect - im posting here in one go - hope ok))

As the witch's spell hits Zinnaella, a massive scream leaves Zinnaella - or would have if the air in her lungs was not burnt out by the fiery spell. Luckily, Evelyn is near and sends holy healing energy into the rogue even before her body stops convulsing. Fire, burning, death calls, and then a healing rush - the cycle was almost too much, too quick. The burning fire was as it had been promised, but she was alone - no blade run through her. Then the wave of healing came, taunting death once again. Almost there, almost to her promised death - it would not take much now. Zinnaella curled up on the ground, her body still shaking from the power of the witch's spell, even as most of the wounds started to close thanks to Eveyln's spell. Zinnaella kept her eyes closed, her head down and her arms were up defensively around her head. Her body spasmed a little, but then curled into a fetal position. The rogue makes no response to Evelyn's return, lost in her own mind for the time being. She breathes on her own and her heartbeat is strong, if a bit fast. Death has not taken her, not this time.

Seeing the witch fall to the half elf's arrow, Mitra quickly turns her attention to the lumbering undead, whose flailing arms are becoming an annoyance. Unslinging her quarter staff in one fluid move, she steps forward, swinging the staff, partly to keep it at bay and partly to knock some sense into it, that attacking her was a bad idea. (to hit) [dice:1s78nw39] 20-1 [/dice:1s78nw39] (damage if hit) [dice:1s78nw39] 1d6-1 [/dice:1s78nw39]

Val hasn't the time to rejoice, as the witch's vile summon is still present. Closing the distance to take a better shot he notices how Evelyn loses her calm at the fallen witch. [i:54syzsyj]Will have to talk her later[/i:54syzsyj] [dice:54syzsyj]20+6-4[/dice:54syzsyj] [dice:54syzsyj]10+1[/dice:54syzsyj]

Tathza moves to flank the undead as the witch has fallen and lashes out with his rapier. Hit [dice:1upyobt9]1d20+2[/dice:1upyobt9] Damage [dice:1upyobt9]1d6[/dice:1upyobt9]

Pos is concerned at Zin's state but he sees a zombie still present and so calls the magical energies that are around him into his palms and shoots out anouter bolt of energy at the zombie. (Magic missile damage) [dice:2bmoy2yw]1d4+1[/dice:2bmoy2yw]

The lumbering un-living turns to smash Mitra, bury her deep into the ground. Hos bones creak and his dead flesh crawls with insect carrion eaters. The smell of him washing over those close, a fetid odor of corruption and dissolution. A rank air of the deceived. [dice:r17tm2ay]1d20+6[/dice:r17tm2ay] Should his arm find purchase on Mitra this is the toll it extracts. [dice:r17tm2ay]1d8[/dice:r17tm2ay]

Val'anthis fires an arrow into the prone witch, just missing Evelyn the Good as she enacts vengeance. Evelyn the Good slaughters the witch unmoving body. Over and over she strikes as the others combat the witch's remaining un-living. Blood and bone fly, lodging in her hair and sticking to her arms and chest. Her face becomes a grim red streaked visage. Around the un-living combat dances. It doesn't care. The world of light and life is too painful. It will struggle until vanquishing all warm bodies or returning to the sorrowful existence that is his. At the witch's full death, a point between Evelyn the Good first retaliatory strike and Val'anthis arrows, the little lights converge on the house and start to rip it apart. Their hands and bodies are small and the little effigy built well. It is difficult for them to dismantle the structure the witch built. ((Evelyn may post, but it would seem she is busy. The un-living remains after the witch death.))

[just assume Evelyn is either finishing her witch bashing or at Zinnaella's side] so no other action

The undead creature, slashes at her arm, causing a gash to appear along it. Mitra bites back a curse, at its unrelenting attempt to reach her. "Time to teach you the statistics of the inevitable outcome" she remarks, as she swings her staff low to strike at his legs. (to hit) [dice:2v7uypvd] 20-1 [/dice:2v7uypvd] (if hit) [dice:2v7uypvd] 1d6-1 [/dice:2v7uypvd] (EDIT: made a mistake on Mitra's armour class - so have edited post above to suit) (Mitra notes for Evil - hit points left = 9 power points left = 10

Zinnaella hears her name muttered, softly - so unlike the raging fire in her mind that it draws her attention. Her eyes flutter open and she see Evelyn there, "Wha.. what happened?" Zinanella starts to sit up before getting dizzy and having to brace herself to not fall back to the ground. "I... I remember... pain... and death." Zinnaella looks up to Evelyn, her arms shaking as she tries to keep herself steady. Her eyes go wide and her voice become very hollow, "MY death... "

Tav presses on against the undead creature [dice:2xg312m1]1d20+6[/dice:2xg312m1] damage if it hits [dice:2xg312m1]1d8+3[/dice:2xg312m1]

[If the zombie is still "alive" and Val notices the light concerning the little house] "Let's finish this fight, something happened to the small house." (attacks the zombie) [dice:1dsh9izc]20+2[/dice:1dsh9izc] [dice:1dsh9izc]10+1[/dice:1dsh9izc]

Pos feels that he still has some power available, he's quite enjoying the frey actually although he is sorry for Zin. Once more he pulls energies from the air and with a familar wonderful feeling he pushes these energies through to his palms and extendeds his palms outwards towards the zombie mutters some strange words and anouther dart of energy weaves it's way straight to the zombie. damage magic missile: [dice:2fn9nt49]1d4+1[/dice:2fn9nt49]

The un-living groans in its last moment. The magic that holds it together waning. It has power left, but not time. Parts of its construct begin to dislodge and with the un-living's movements are flung at the feet of the warm bodies it struggles against. Once last strike at the living. Drawn to power it focuses on Tathza, possibly thinking it can steal some and reside longer. [dice:rt81exdh]1d20+6[/dice:rt81exdh] The un-livings crumbling arms strike Tathza Sabran in a crushing blow. Bits and pieces of it left on him as the arms withdraw. [dice:rt81exdh]1d8[/dice:rt81exdh] Then the un-living falls apart. As it slides to the ground a low grumble escapes the hole where its mouth should be. Deep it growls until coalescing into coherent syllables. [i:rt81exdh]"The hunt is begun."[/i:rt81exdh]

The snowfall thickens and a chill settles on those wet with the exertion of battle. The little house is covered with the soft light of shining fae. The bodily strength not enough to open the structure. They struggle with the roof and walls, trying desperately to dismantle the creation. Quiet descends on the party as the un-living ends its time on Turan. The only noise is the sound of fae scratching and pulling at the house and the incessant hammering of Evelyn the Good's mace on the body of the dead witch.

((2 Same posts ? moved my post to the other as 2 player wrote before me there))

Octavian turns to Tathza "are you ok? let's get Val or Evelyn to take a look at that"

I got an error when I originally posted and did not see this duplicate. Please post in the other Topic heading. Than, if you could remove this one I'd appreciate it.

The snowfall thickens and a chill settles on those wet with the exertion of battle. The little house is covered with the soft light of shining fae. The bodily strength not enough to open the structure. They struggle with the roof and walls, trying desperately to dismantle the creation. Quiet descends on the party as the un-living ends its time on Turan. The only noise is the sound of fae scratching and pulling at the house and the incessant hammering of Evelyn the Good's mace on the body of the dead witch.

(hoping its ok to finish now? - to catch up with Zinnaella's questions in last round) After saying her words to those that listened about the witch's poor choice of faith, Evelyn drops her mace and runs to Zinnaella's side, lifting the girl's head and calling her name. Checking for a pulse, she is relieved to feel a strong heartbeat and as Zinnaella stirs from her deathly slumber, cant stop the big smile that appears on her face. "Welcome back...again," she says softly, her anger instantly forgotten, her chest still heaving slightly, from the exertion of her vented anger on the witch, totally oblivious to the bone fragments and blood on her face, body and hair. "Rest easy," she whispers softly, brushing back one of Zinnaella's hairs to comfort her, " You had us all worried there, but you will be ok now.." "its finished.." she remarks, not noticing the events at the house.

Pos see's the zombie strike Tathza a vicious blow but then the Zombie falls to the ground. Zin's moving again after some aid from Eve and Pos is happy about that. He goes over to the others and says "That was a hell of a fight, Is everyone as ok as they can be?"

As the vile summon turns back to dust, Val notices that Evelyn is still smashing the dead body. He helds her back, whispering clamly "that's enough, it's over now", trying to calm her down. ((Moved my answer from the other post))

(this is a response to Val before Eve moves to Zinnaella) Evelyn's eyes look wild and erratic and for a moment she doesnt register Val's presence, as she swings her mace against the mashed in corpse, again and again. " "She made a poor choice in her faith...and has now paid the price.." she says when exhausted. There is venom in her voice and she almost spits the words as she speaks. His words break through, and her face softens as she looks into his eyes, her eyes still full of pain. Letting out a trembling sigh, she whispers[i:1czgoy7s] 'thank you'[/i:1czgoy7s] to him Val can see she is trembling uncontrollably, and seeing Zinnaella's prone form on the floor, thinking her dead or dying still, she slips by him and runs to her side, letting her bloody mace fall from her fingers next to Val's feet.

Tathza feels his rage building at what that damnable witch had done to him. She had attempted to disable him and then her minion had struck him. He takes a deep breath and closes his eyes for a moment allowing the anger to drain out of him. His body hurt but he shook it off, compared to the priestesses and mages of his home such treatment was little. This was still the matter of that house and what was left of the witch. "The blow was not life threating Tav. But this is not over and their is still work to be done. My healing can wait for the moment as it seems our priestess is not being very attentive at this time. " Tathza moves just past the witch's dead body and turns facing not only the witch but the whole party and the house. He then begins to cast a spell moving his hands in quick movements and whispers "Ocuir Arcaniss" and when complete snaps his eyes open as they are now attuned to the magic that flows thru out the world. (Tathza cast Detect Magic and studies the witch 1st as she is the closest.)

[quote="Xamvim":2mlvf4kk](hoping its ok to finish now? - to catch up with Zinnaella's questions in last round)[/quote:2mlvf4kk] ((Sorry, wanted to post and I got going a little fast...)) Zinnaella calms slightly at Evelyn's words, but not completely. "It was so real... It..." Zinnaella shudders again at the memory of one vision in particular that had run through her mind. Regardless of Evelyn's words, Zinnaella was unable to shake the thought that it wasn't over - not by a long shot. "The witch.. she showed me... is she gone, truely?"

((Octavious posted this in the suplicate heading. Apologies. I got an error and it must have reposted when I went back. Here is his post......)) [b:exzfkgsn]Octavian turns to Tathza "are you ok? let's get Val or Evelyn to take a look at that"[/b:exzfkgsn]

Mitra hears Tathza's words and shoots a glance in Evelyn's direction, seeing her finish mashing the witch's corpse, until stopped by Val, then run over to Zinnaella's side. Saying nothing, she turns to the matter at hand, the house, studying the scene, trying to formulate an approach. Matter of factly she says to Tathza without looking at him, "if you have any gems of knowledge, you wish to share with us right now, on what we see and what we have seen. Now would be an appropriate time to do so." [spot check on what goes on, looking for any finer details] [dice:1aa7ojn6] 20+6 [/dice:1aa7ojn6] "

Mitra watches the house and fae closely. It is not difficult to determine. The fae are attempting to dismantle the house and having little luck. Their lack of progress, although, is not related to the house foiling the fae's actions by coming alive. The little folk simply do not have the might to open it up. The house's bird legs are quite and do not move. The fae are not repelled as they had been before the witch was dead. Mitra sees that they simply lack the power of arms to break into it.

"Yes," Evelyn answers warmly, "she is truly gone now..you have nothing more to fear...." A look of concern crosses Evelyn's face as Zinnaella comments on a particular image she saw, but not wanting to cause the girl to fall into regression, she decides to ask her about it another time, when she feels stronger. Her concern for the rogue, causes her own angered emotion, to ebb and she begins to feel calmer as she speaks, noting the blood on herself for the first time, but deciding to ignore it for now. "You should rest here a while, till your strength returns." She smiles, giving her a small hug, "I will stay with you until you feel like you can walk again." Looking around at the group for the first time, she notices their gazes at the house and looks on from where she kneels, wondering what goes on. "Is anyone else in need of healing?" she calls to the group, realizing she had not been aware of the last moments of combat.

((Wow that was a long read... and I'm not even on to the other sections yet)) She attempted to reach out with her quarter staff and prod the alter but her left arm fails her. She feels no pain but the ragged cuts, scratches and welts that have ruined her arm have obviously torn this bodies muscles she takes the weight of her quarter staff in her right arm wraping her arm around the staff and walked over to the alter, watching the fae, she nods to them. She leans in closer and pushes the alter with her staff using it in a slight angle so it can act as a lever and hopefully between her and the fae they can do what the bugs failed to do.

Octavian jogs back to the camp and grabs a torch, lighting it he returns to shed some light on the area. He walks over to the little house, seeing Mitra helping the little bugs, which on closer inspection turn out to be little fae. "here, let me help with that, hold this for me?" Tav hands the torch over to Mitra (if she doesn't take it then i plant it into the ground) and proceeds to rip off the house's roof with his hands. ((Strength check)) [dice:1zzbvqu5]1d20+3[/dice:1zzbvqu5]

[Evelyn's spot check on Mitra switching arms to suggest an injury..DC12?] [dice:1w05utom] 20+5 [/dice:1w05utom] Evelyn notices Mitra switching arms, noting the one left, stays at her side, and concern rises in her mind. She turns to Zinnaella and says softly, "The others may be injured and I must go to see if it is true. do you have strength to walk with me?" Taking Zinnaella's arm [and helping her there too if she is able], Evelyn stands up to make her way to Mitra and the others. Once with the group, Evelyn notes the ragged cuts on her arm and her eyes widen, "Oh Mitra dear, you are hurt! Iam so sorry, please let me heal you." [as soon as Mitra stops what she is doing for a moment] Evelyn reaches forward, whispering a chant, sending healing magic into her body. [cure light wounds] [dice:1w05utom] 1d8+3 [/dice:1w05utom]

Pos comes closer to the group and says "Dangerous parts we are in at the moment but that witch and her creations was something very unexpected. Wonder why she was around this house ?"

Mitra prods the house, but the angle and lack of leverage are not much help. Octavian tears the roof off the little structure and sits back with it still in his hand. The fae ring the house and stand along the tops of the walls and look inside. On the little house's floor lays a small fae. She is unmoving and her light has long since gone out. She looks grey in death. The fae begin to sing and six descend into the house itself, stationing three on each side of the fae that had been caught and trapped by the witch. They lift her carefully and fly as a single unit, bringing her slowly out into the night. The bearers of the dead fae begin to fly out and the others fall in line behind them. Before leaving, they swirl around each member of the party, a river of lights eddying about each of you until they bear her away into the night. You can see them for some time like a multi-colored mist weaving in and out of the terrain until the dark swallows them up. The witch had trapped their princess and performed a sacrificial rite. The house like a burning altar in the daytime sun and a frozen prison in the night. She must have died from exposure, but certain things are probably obvious to everyone. She had made her last call near sunset. The army of bugs were definately not the witch's doing and there was none else to call them to aid her. The little princess must have been alive then before the snow fell. Her brothers and sisters take her home where the fae perform whatever crossing rites their kind observe. They are simply relieved to have recovered her and for the witch's act to be denied.

Pos looks around at the magical array of lights thinking it's sad that beautiful fae had to come to such a fate. He feels like sticking the witches head on a stick rubbing surgars over the face and letting the bugs devour her face cus that's the respect the evil witch deserves.

Tathza's Detect Magic. 1st Round : There are many auras present. 2nd Round: Each party member has at least one aura, some have multiple. Those with more than one aura are Evelyn, Mitra, and Postavicka. The witch has an aura, but it dies with her. Her staff also has one. The house's aura fades with the witch's. Every single fae has an aura, which makes everything a fair bit confusing as they are in constant motion and distort the others spatially. Most auras are of faint or moderate strength and roughly comparable, so defining the strongest in light of the fae's movements is hard but you find the following: the most powerful aura shines from on Postavicka. It is the only 'Strong' aura and shines brightly. Next is the witch's staff and then the single individual auras on the party members in front of you. These auras are moderate in a field of weaker auras. 3rd Round: Please post your inquiries.

a feeling of guilt, rises in Evelyn's heart as she sees the fae take their dead princess away. [i:16vr45cv]'if only...'[/i:16vr45cv] is all she can think as they depart. She scans the group to see if any are hurt, still propping Zinnaella up with her arm. (assuming she was strong enough to walk) There was one more duty she had to perform... soon... and she wasn't sure how the others would feel about it....

Zinnaella nods and does rise with Evelyn, moving around with the group. She keeps her head down though as she tries to sort though the recent events. Zinnaella remains still as Evelyn checks on the others and does her priestly duties. However, as the fae carry out their dead and fly around, Zinnaella does raise her head to watch the swirling mass of lights fly around her. She moves her lips a little, the slight breath leaving her mouth as she whispers [i:2s15hxjj]I'm sorry[/i:2s15hxjj] to the fae procession. She watches the procession until the lights fade, swallowed by the darkness. She then returns to her stoic stance again, head lowered and staring at the ground.

Evelyn says softly to those standing near, "I must perform a crossover rite with the witch. The quicker I can encourage her spirit to the afterlife, the better." Keeping her arm around Zinnaella's waist to support her, Evelyn leads her toward the witch. She notes Tathza standing beyond the witch observing the group but says nothing to him. She also sees Val there and smiles at him in passing. As she nears the witch's body, she turns to face Zinnaella and gently persuades her to sit down, "Don't worry," she says softly, brushing her hair back, worried whatever traumatic effect she suffered,might return, "I wont be far. I must perform the rite but I will still be near." Evelyn kneels beside the corpse of the naked witch and begins the crossover ritual to her god. Placing a copper coin into the witch's hand, she whispers her chant, to send the evil soul to the shores of the dead, so that Vecer might take her to her final destination. Upon completing her ritual, she does not get up but instead draws her dagger from its sheath. She momentarily looks up to see who watches, then lets out a small sigh and continues with her course. Separating the witch's first finger from the rest of the hand, she angles her dagger and begins to cut, putting her weight behind the blade. The sharp blades sinks into the soft flesh, tearing the skin, sending congealed blood to trickle down the edge of the blade. There is a scraping sound and crunching sound as she hits bone and Evelyn applies more pressure till a final soft 'popping' sound is heard as the joint disengages. Twisting the finger, she pulls it free, the last remenants of skin tearing as she pulls. holding the finger stub in her hand like a paintbrush, she begins to whisper a chant. As she says her words. She scribes a 'V'' symbol in blood, between the woman's breasts, making extra marks to both sides of the 'V', all the while saying her chant. [i:2z2qbwyx]'A finger of power, a finger of death I take from thee, with a cutting breath marked by Vecer, marked by blood Your damnation complete with your despicable god On battleground we met in battle we fought Your rage was wasted Your effort for naught And now your bones will feed the earth But I take this bone For Vecer's mirth One day will come that I must fight your own A soldier I shall make from your evil bone In Vecer's name I take this one Your life now forfeit My ritual now done.[/i:2z2qbwyx] After completing her words, Evelyn uses the dagger to peel back the remaining skin and snapping the finger bones apart from their joints. She rubs the bones on the dirt to scrap off any remains of flesh before wiping her bloody hands on the witch's naked body, leaving bloody smear marks on it. She looks again at those around but does not say a word. She then removes her cloak, placing the finger bones in her cloak pocket then wraps it around the bone staff without touching it directly, making the cloak to form a kind of sack. Once done, keeping hold of the [i:2z2qbwyx]''sack'[/i:2z2qbwyx] , she returns to Zinnaella.

She stands back and holds onto Octavian's torch while he pulls the roof of the house off, as the fae begin to swirel around them she feels a calm wave of emotion wash over her, she reaches out with her newly healed hand and slips it into Octavian's hand and squeezes not looking at the man but instead gaping with awe at the beauty of the fae and the receeding procession of lights.

Val passes near Tathza while approaching the little magical construction. "Have you been hurt ?" [If he says yes:] Val closes his eyes, "[i:1smih51g]Ouvre ton esprit, ferme tes plaies...[/i:1smih51g]" ((Casting lesser vigor, giving him 13hp back)) He then analyzes the situation concerning the fea

Zinnaella does exactly as Evelyn persuades and then halfway watches the rite the priestess performs. She sees the actions and hears the words, but her mind is still working through all that had happened this evening. As her mind races, she absentmindedly starts twisting the ring on her left hand around, never removing it from her finger - but playing with it nonetheless. She recalls the whispers of feeding and bleeding, the overwhelming senses of despair and nothingness. Then the shadowy figure in her mind gave her hope, and freedom. She had built a mental wall to keep the thoughts and images back, to focus on the battle at hand. Then the flames, flames as real as those in the vision - or so they seemed. Those flames and the pain ripped apart the wall like a sharp sword through blades of grass. The end that Zinnaella had been assured was there for the rogue, yet she survived. But there was more, there was something else there she needed to know. Zinnaella did not know what it was, much less why it was important, or even how she knew there was something to it - but there was. But for all that drive to know, to discover the secret, to identify the mystery in her mind - Zinnaella could not reach it, unable to bring herself to fully delve into the sights, sounds, and smells of what she had experienced. As Evelyn finishes and returns to her, Zinnaella looks up as she focuses again on the here and now. "What now?" she asks, and then shivers as the warmth of adrenaline filled pumping blood leaves as the battle has ended, and all that remains is the sudden bitter cold and the softly falling snow.

Tav frowns down as the scene unfolds below with the fae "poor little guys..." he squeezes Mitra's hand and then turns back to the others "let's get any wounded back to camp and get them bandaged up, I think I should do a sweep across the area in case she brought any friends, Tathza, if you're up to it I could really use your eyes; if we do run into anything I'll hold them off while you can come back and alert the others? anyone else who's fit can guard the camp while we re-organize. what do you say guys?"

[i:fhhnh70i]Oh gods he is squeezing my hand.[/i:fhhnh70i] She blushes in the darkness glad that the torch light doesn't illuminate her face. Still holding his hand she turns to Octavian. "Well I can see in the darkness as well if you want me to come with you, I don't have the power of Tathzi but I can run really fast." she shys away a little "That is of course if you want me instead of Tathzi." she looks back into his eyes. [On an OCC note I think Omni mentioned he is back on his week of work so access is restricted for him.]

[i:2x6qsx8h]'Oh! my mace' [/i:2x6qsx8h]Evelyn remembers as she steps back to Zinnaella. She picks its up shaking off some of the larger bone fragments attached to it and fixes it to its fastening, before kneeling beside Zinnaella. Looking to the others, she sees Tav, beginning to organize the group. She notes him holding Mitra's hand and her eyebrow raises as she glances to Mitra and gives her a smile. Turning her attention back to Zinnaella, she considers her words before answering, as a nurse would to her patient. As a carer, she had noted Zinnaella's stoic stance and unfocused look and the shudders in her body either from the cold or something more. "For now, we will get you back to camp," she answers softly, She knew a near death experience, was no simple matter. Death's closeness had a large array of effects on the mind and soul and Evelyn felt Zinnaella was not ready to do anything but rest. she smiles before continuing, "The effect of death's embrace, changes for each and every one of us, as we journey through our lives. It is something best healed with rest, till your strength of body and mind returns and then, if you wish, we can talk about it." Evelyn helps Zinnaella to stand, one arm around the rogue, one hand holding onto the wrapped staff, passing Tav and Mitra on the way to camp. Nearing them she says softly to Tav and those standing by, "Zinnaella is in no condition to continue her watch. She must rest for the remainder of the night. I shall see to it that she is settled and sleeps then I am willing to help here in anyway I can, as a watch or scout or whatever else is required, including disposing of the body." She gestures to the wrapped held staff, " This bone staff evoked an effect on Zinnaella, or at least I think it did. It may be magical or simply a conduit for one of the witch's spells. Until I know more about this item, because it is connected to a religious follower of Maro, the enemy of my god, this staff will remain in my care. If evil is soaked it in its bones, too deep to be washed clean, it will be destroyed, magic or not.. no matter what it's weight is in gold." "If it can be cleansed, then and only then, am I happy to discuss openly about the staff's fate and what should be done with it. Whether it should be sold or given to someone here." She gives Tav a small bow with her head and smiles at Mitra before heading back to camp. Evelyn directs Zinnaella to her bedroll, helping her to remove her outer armour so she can sleep better, then helps her to lie down, pulling the blanket up to her chin. "I will return" Evelyn whispers and walks over to her own bedroll and pack. She fumbles in her pack and removes a waterskin taking a tiny amount to wash some of the blood that still remains on her face. Patting her dress down, to dislodge anything else. She picks up her pack and bedroll and returns to Zinnaella, placing it down next to her. She sits down with her back against the tree and her blanket over her legs. She smiles at Zinnaella, softly whispering one of her favourite tales to her, while playing with her hair to help her relax. Evelyn patiently continues to see if the rogue will simply fall asleep from exhaustion or wish to speak about her experience instead.

Spellcraft (Pos) [dice:3dbljkcd]1d20+12[/dice:3dbljkcd] Spellcraft (Eve) [dice:3dbljkcd]1d20+12[/dice:3dbljkcd] Spellcraft (Val) [dice:3dbljkcd]1d20+12[/dice:3dbljkcd] Tathza gave a slight nod to Val and thanked him for his aid. It is good to know at least one healer can keep their head in battle. Tathza hated being struck and moved towards the witch's body and bent his knee's as he carefully picked one hand that the priestess had removed a finger from then took his own dagger and with a practiced sharp movement removed another finger and quickly cut off the meat from it. It would be useless until he cleaned it completly and processed it but it would serve. Tathza pocketed the bone before he rose and noticed the witch's items. He moved towards them and started to remove the staff so that he could study it properly. Best to know what one had with them and its power for Tathza had no intention of walking around with any magical item that he knew nothing about and more so a staff from a priestess.

Pos watches Taztha cut the finger and raises an eyebrow at this. H'mmm he thinks may be a spell component, still the witch deserves to be dismembered. To Taztha he says "You took quite a blow there I was a little concerned for you, still at least you are back on your feet now." "I think it's all done here now, i'm off back to the camp to continue my sleep." At that unless someone stops Pos he goes back to the camp to sleep.

"ok then let's go Mitra, Tathza seems caught up in his magic, we'll meet you all back at camp soon" turning to Mitra he says "I uh, I'm going to need my hand back, shall we?" Tav takes up his shield and sword again and heads off with Mitra to do a perimeter sweep.

She smiles sweetly then her brain catches up with the conversation and she lets go of Octavian's hand. "Oh goodness sorry about that of course you need it." She blushes some more and chides herself for being such a girl about the whole thing. "I guess it's off we go." She passes next to him as they start there circuit.

Zinnaella nods at Evelyn's suggestion of rest and allows herself to be led back to camp and her bed. As Evelyn joins her against the tree and speaks softly, Zinnaella relaxes under the priestess's soft voice and mumbles a little before drifting off to sleep.

The snow fall increases and the temperatures drop. The party huddle in the lee of a great root of Bila Strom trying to conserve heat and get out of the northernly wind. The rest of the night will pass even if no-one sleeps well. ((Continue and I will post next Topic in am. Tathza, please indicate what aura you are spell crafting. You can probably do more than one, so lets say 3 total.))

Tathza Studies the staff slowly taking a close look at how it was created and what was used. Knowledge (arcana) [dice:3txd5v2y]1d20+10[/dice:3txd5v2y] Spellcraft (staff) [dice:3txd5v2y]1d20+12[/dice:3txd5v2y] Knowledge (religion) [dice:3txd5v2y]1d20+5[/dice:3txd5v2y]

Tathza studies the staff during the time in between spaces and actions. It is not hard for him to do even before Evelyn covers the staff and takes it under protection. Within the bones of the staff, which is indeed made from the femur bones of humans, is a small back crystal. Such was used to empower the staff with profane power. Tathza feels that this power is what accounts for the black lightning that struck Zinnaella when the witch touched her with it, but indeed this power of the staff is secondary and an Evocation of Death and Evil. Simply, the damage from the staff itself was an added bonus that is always active if used in certain manners. Unfortunately, Tathza can not tell else concerning it as, however it was made, its construction and the type of spells used to do so is above his spellcraft ability.

Tathza feels he can learn no more from this staff and has no need of such an item. Tathza did not like using things that had a divine taint to them. In Tathza's mind power was power and to give it a nature as good or evil was to currupt its purity and purpose. He warpped the staff back up and returned it from where he had gotten it. Tathza goes to study his spellbook away from anyone and quickly finds that not only do his spells flow into his mind with little effort but spells formerly beyond his power come to light in a rush of understanding.

The rest of the night is miserable. Members of the party find sleeping difficult with the tumult of the day ravaging their thoughts and the temperature so cold. The snowfall thickens and by an hour before sunrise there is 20 cm of accumulated snow in the ground. Evelyn the Good freezes most of the night as do any other who stay awake on watch. The party opt to find a suitable lee in a large buried root of Bila Strom against the winter weather. Sunrise brings fury. As soon as the faint lights of the God of War begin to trickle over the horizon the temperature begins to soar. It is as if the Lord of the Seven Hells himself strode upon the land. The snow melts and form a bog of damp ground. The change is so abrupt that the party nearly have little enough time to throw off covering used against the cold. Mitra nearly gets buried under a large fall of snow from the upper branches of Bila Strom and all make the decision that staying close to the tree would be dangerous. Packing quickly, the party moves out from the base of the trunk a ways. It is just over one day travel to the first of the old mines. Postavicka thinks that with a quick march the party could reach it before midnight, but that may not be the smartest idea, arriving to unfamiliar territory in the dark. ((Tathza, Evelyn posted she took the staff before you did. I assume that she maintained possession unless you wish to IC contest it. ))

[pmed omni about staff- i imagine if he has an issue will speak up ingame - for now im assuming eve still has the staff - also continuing with assumption mitra and Tav still do final watch] Evelyn shakes herself from her drifting mind, not realising she had almost fallen asleep due to the cold. It is still very dark and Mitra and Tav are readying for their final watch in the early hours of the morning. She had waited till she heard the soft sounds of Zinnaella's breathing in sleep before gently sliping away from her and finding the others, some still active from the fight. Though she probably wasnt needed, she felt she had to complete her watch and had insisted on staying. She had taken the staff, with her not wishing to leave it near to the sleeping Zinnaella, uncertain why, but just felt perhaps its memory if seen on its own should Zinnaella awake it would... Wrapped in her blanket, she still missed her cloak, that she had used it to wrap the bone staff, so found herself shivering uncontrollably. As her watch ends, she smiles at Mitra, wishing her a good night and makes her way back to the sleeping group in the darkness. She returns to her pack by Zinnaella and sees she is still sleeping soundly. Feeling the cold she lays down close to her and decides to do a bit of 'stealing' herself and cuddles up close to the unknowing rogue, robbing her off some of her body heat, to try and stave of her own shivering. The rogue stirs at the sudden loss of heat then settles back as the heat between them rises once again. Placing her blanket over both of them to create another air pocket she nestles her head into the back of Zinnaella's and slowly drifts to sleep. She wakes as she always does before dawn and gently unwraps herself from the sleeping rogue. Not wanting to rob her yet again of heat as she slips away, she drapes her own blanket over Zinnaella's, giving her more warmth. She bows to Tav and Mitra who still remain vigilant in watch and finds a quiet spot away from the group to perform her prayers in the snow. Kneeling down trying to ignore the numbness of the cold, she digs a hole to place her prayer bones in their ankh design on the ground and lays the bone staff over the hole and begins her prayers, the chant taking a different meaning as she converses to her god, eyeing the bones of the staff. As her prayers return to their normal thanks, She is suddenly aware of a change in herself and scriptures she had recited several years ago as part of her training suddenly become clear with amazing clarity. An excitement rises in her heart as an array of powers race through her mind, like a ray of sunshine, just as dawn breaks and the real sun's rays surge over the land. In her joy she focuses on several new powers and thanks her god again and again with joy. As the sun melts the snow with it's soaring heat, she sees the staff begin to sink and scared she might lose her prayer bones she quickly grabs them and thrusts them in to their velvet roll. Wrapping the staff once more with her cloak, she quickly returns to camp. Grabbing her pack, she kneels by Zinnaella and whispers urgently, "Zinnaella, we must go," She helps her up and collect her things then goes to help the others break camp and leave the tree. When they are free from the tree, Evelyn returns to Zinnaella and asks softly, "How are you feeling today?"

Pos looks around at the group and thinks they do look like a strange mix and to someone not in the know not that threatening. But after the conflict last night Pos is starting to think this group can actually handle themselves. He hopes that they pull together and get along and after the last few days he's been noticing some strengthening of the groups relationships. Time for the mines is not now far off and for dealing with the hidden riders he thinks. Although he's not half as worried about the hidden riders as the rumors of the other dark beasts that he has been told about lurking in the old mines. He's hoping that those beast either don't actually exist or are far deeper in the mines than the hidden riders would dare to go. Oh well only time will tell.

Zinnaella sleeps fairly well though the rest of the evening, overcome with the events of the battle. She doesn't fully awaken as Evelyn lies next to her or even when the priestess leaves again before dawn, quite lost in her own sleep. As the sun rises, she is woken by Evelyn. She mumbles a response but then does indeed rise as the heat of the sun starts to cut through and roast her under the blankets. Zinnaella tosses them aside and then replaces her armor and gathers her items in preparation to take off. At Evelyn's question, Zinnaella looks to her. "Better, stronger, and ready to go - thank you." She gives the priestess a smile and then looks off to see where the group is heading, taking in the view. Although she has to shield her eyes from the sun, she looks over what path she can see. "How far to the mines now, if we aren't interrupted of course?" she asks Posta while she scouts the view for possible sights of trouble. ((Spot check))[dice:331kaweh]1d20+6[/dice:331kaweh]

On Pos being questioned about the distance to the old mines he raises an eyebrow and says "H'mmm, you know if we walk quickly we could even get there today, but I wouldn't much like to arrive there in darkness so perhaps we should camp about a half hour before we reach the mines".

[i dont know yet what has happened to the witch's body - if it still lies by the house, Eve will ask for help to bury it before leaving] "I'm glad," Evelyn replies to Zinnaella with a warm smile."I hope you didnt mind the [i:1wg1mpf0]'the thief'[/i:1wg1mpf0] in the night," she grins at her but says nothing more. She turns her attention to her pack and lays down her winter blanket, letting the bone staff drop onto it gently and wraps it up tightly and attaching a strap from her backpack to the bundle, so it will rest on her back. Shaking her cloak, she places it over her shoulders. She walks to Mitra and smiles, saying softly, "How is your arm feeling, is it better now?" She take's Mitra's arm and inspects it to be sure, then smiles, "well today could be a new chapter of adventure when we reach the old mines, I wonder what we will find there."

[Mitra and Tav did indeed burn the body after they had finished there patrol last night] In the morning she sits watching the last of the embers burn down. The sun begins to crest the horizon and the snow begins to melt. She had been gifted another dawn and it was glorious. She looked at Tav, curled in his bed roll, she smiled at E as she got up to do her morning prayers. Mitra waited till E made her way back to the camp and spoke to her about her arm. "I'm well this morning, and seems I'm still here so that is a good sign. I had a realisation last night and I want to try something with that staff we picked up last night." She looks at E and smiles "I promise I want activate it." she says with a wicked smile. [If agreed then the following happens] She takes the wrapped staff and unwraps the smallest amount of the staff she then places the tip of her finger on the staff and closes her eyes, she stands still for a good minute then snaps her eyes open, she wraps the staff up again and hands it back to the priestess. "There that was a lot easier than attempting to swallow a pearl." she says with a wink. [Identify, Psionic - 3PP same as the arcane version]

Tav wakes up as the camp wakens and things start getting moved, he shakes off the snow that accumulated on him while he slept and works on packing up everything in sight and making ready the horses, chewing on some rations as he goes. he nods to anyone looking over at him, but otherwise is quiet, lost in private thoughts, he lets his gaze linger on Mitra as she and Evelyn do something with the staff, but then occupies himself in the preparations. ((survival check for gauging the weather)) [dice:2rxg8y9l]1d20+4[/dice:2rxg8y9l]

Evelyn cant help but smile at Mitra's words. She leans in close to Mitra and whispers into her ear. When she asks for the staff with a wicked smile, Evelyn hesitates only for a second, until she realizes the jest behind the smile, "of course," she says softly, smiling, handing the staff over. She watches Mitra perform her spell and when Mitra hands it back she asks, "anything of interest?"

Mitra reaches and un-wraps the staff. She closes her eyes and a single finger alights upon the bone of some poor soul. All around her the camp begins to waken. The sounds of the others packing become muttered to her, then close off completely. Her breathing settles into a long sigh and Evelyn can see without doubt that Mitra's eyes roll far back under her closed lids. Her lips tremble, her body becomes taught like a stretched cord. Lost seconds tick, tock, tick , tock............ [i:2k3mq0rf]Free me. Free me. Free me. I'll drink your soul.[/i:2k3mq0rf] Bound in the bones of the staff, the howling demon struggles, stretches and sees the tip of Mitra's finger like a star glimmering in the deep night. Her probing mind like a blossoming door in a prison. The witch is dead. [i:2k3mq0rf]The witch is dead.[/i:2k3mq0rf] There is no binder to keep it bound. No contest of wills. No trial of strength. [i:2k3mq0rf]And from the depths of hell it is free. Famine. Feast. Feed.[/i:2k3mq0rf] Mitra sways a little, a cough of a breath escaping her and unconsciously a few words slips her lips. Evelyn has to lean in to hear them. They slide like a sickness over her tongue, wet and full of promise. [i:2k3mq0rf]"It comes. It comes."[/i:2k3mq0rf] Evelyn the Good smells burning flesh and feces. She smells rot and sewer. She feels her skin crawl and her lungs catch as the demon frees itself. Mitra's eyes flutter. She knows too as the demon follows her mind out into the light And the sounds of tinkling bells softly settle over the camp. To Evelyn the Good, they are the screaming shrieks of a soul stealer, devourer of living bone, flayer of will. [i:2k3mq0rf]I shall collect you. I shall harvest. I shall dance and swallow your soul. Prepare yourselves and I will be gentle.[/i:2k3mq0rf] Mitra snaps her eyes open, but she never gets to wrap the staff up again or hand it back to the priestess. She nevers gets to say, "There that was a lot easier than attempting to swallow a pearl." She never winks. ((I believe E,Z, and Pos are placed on the map appropriately. But I do not think the others are. Please place as if you are packing up camp and I will continue. You can if you want post pre-Mitra and the Staff events if you wish.))

[[Im moving E+Z away from the tree as i had understood the snow was collapsing from the tree- and mentioned moving from it with Zinnaella during my post - i had imagined Mitra perhaps by the smaller branch where watch may have taken place? - so moving all 3 accordingly- of course ppl can dispute my thoughts and move their own characters where they want]] [knowledge religion] [dice:2p0f4xdm] 20+5 [/dice:2p0f4xdm] (woot!)

Tav's gaze lingered on Mitra as her and Evelyn examined the staff, Mitra concentrating, maybe casting a spell, Tav doesn't know of these things. something's wrong, is her mind switching? so soon. no, it's something else and it's reflected in Evelyn's face, something is wrong. Octavian stands from where he knelt next to his pack, watching, waiting, unsure what to do. before he even has a chance to call out to them...

((Evelyn the Good knows demons. She knows death. And she knows those that subvert the rules of the Gods for their own malicious plans. There are those that can bind demons to articles. It is a tricky process, fraught with the risk of failure. You can accidently, for instance, call a demon far stronger than you had intended. In which case the binder could become the bound. Failure rarely is repeated. A bound demon constantly struggles against that which holds it and the binder periodically must strengthen its will over the bound. Once the article's power is used, the demon is free and automatically sent back without hassle. But should it succeed and escape sooner, then only in killing will it return. The warm blood of a humanoid the offering to find a way home. A seemingly random line is remembered from study. [i:2fpyr53i]Bells and dancing. Shadows and trickery. A swallower of souls. Beware of beguiling smiles and soft curves. Or be caught in the belly of the beast.[/i:2fpyr53i]))

Horror fills Evelyn's eyes as she senses the demon's struggle, "No!" she screams, looking at Mitra, her eyes glazed from the internal attack. A feeling of dread comes over her at words recently promised. Not knowing what else to do, she simply does what she knew she would always do. Casting a spell of protection on herself, she grasps the staff, Mitra holds and attempts to wrench it from her hands, passing the staff's ownership and the penalty of failure over to herself.... [if for any reason she cant prise the staff from Mitra, she will be using all her force to twist her body against Mitra as leverage, knocking her away while shouting, "help me get this off her!!""] [casted [i:2n1mhl7y]'protection from evil[/i:2n1mhl7y]' on self first]

Zinnaella quickly starts looking around at the sound of bells, wondering what they are and what they mean. Before she can begin to guess, she hears Evelyn's scream and her attention is drawn to the two women beginning to wrestle over the staff. Unable to believe they are fighting over such a thing, she knows deep down that it is something more, something very very wrong. Zinnaella grits her teeth at the thought of that staff, but she starts to step forward to the duo to try and determine what is going on. ((waiting to see if Evelyn gets the staff from Mitra on her own or not, but taking a 5 foot step closer - map updated.))

Val finally wakes up from his trance. The fight yesterday was hard, as the weather during the night. While getting his equipment ready he hears shouts. [i:1fab8m3k]What the heck are they doing ? Is that the witch's staff ?[/i:1fab8m3k] He approaches them in order to know more about it.

Tathza was feeling good about himself and his new power. He was making sure that the weather and night had not taken to heavy a toll on his person when he suddenly hears a scream and looks at the two females with the staff. Tathza's face contorts as he quickly reasons what is happening but just as quickly brings his rage at their sheer stupidity under control. By all the gods and fiends why was he damned to be with such fools. Tathza had studied the staff with logic and care and did not dare to use any direct connection when he did not have access to the proper safe guards. They knew it to be an item of evil yet they did not think it to be cursed or dengerous and now they would pay the price as well as bring it down upon them all. Tathza dismisses it for the moment as it needed to be dealt with quickly. "The staff is having an effect on Mitra we must remove her from it" Tathza keeps his distance and a keen eye. Spellcraft (staff) [dice:3gz09b7q]1d20+12[/dice:3gz09b7q] Knowledge (the planes) [dice:3gz09b7q]1d20+6[/dice:3gz09b7q] (The spellcraft roll is for Tathza to figure out the nature of what the staff is doing to Mitra as he only has an idea and no real knowledge and the knowledge roll is if he figures it out to be a devil or demon to find out information about said demon or devil. Let me know if I need to change the knowledge roll to arcana or if a arcana roll needs to be added before the planes roll.)

Tathza: The spellcraft doesn't help much. There is magic happening in the staff, that you are sure of, and since Mitra does not use magic, or at least that sort of power, you know that it is not originating from her. I'll save the Planes roll for later.

As Evelyn sliped her hand off the staff to perform the incantations for her spell, the staff jolted from her other hand and Mitra who was to busy battling the demon didn't notice the fact that one second she was stood on the ground the next she was hurtling through the air. To those watching it looked like her and the staff had been literally flicked by an unknown hand backwards away from the priestess. Her body carried into the tree at force and a sickly crack can be heard, but still her eyes were closed still she fought whatever it was with mind, shuting off pathways to her powers so that should anything happen it would at least give the others a fighting chance. Her head sagged down and she almost looked at peace as the others looked up at her body, which gravity reasserted it's ever constant power over and she tumbled from the tree, landing smack in the middle of the fire pit which was still hot. There a thick cloud of smoke and embers wrupted and swept over the group. Everyone had to turn away as the thick acrid smoke asailed them. Even poor Pos was forced backwards by the force of the fall. As the embers died in the still cool air, and the smoke pushed further away so they could see, they looked back at the woman who instead of being a smear on the floor chared and burnt, she stood, or more precisely they stood as there were now six of the woman that stood before them. Her dress was cut along the waist, her breasts were fuller and her hair fell neatly behind her head in a pony tail. The bone staff that had been in her hands looked now to be a bone whip that was wraped around her waist. She opened her eyes and instead of the cool colour they had been before there was a burning red fire within those glass orbs. She began to sway in time with some unheard music and she raised her arms above her head and danced around the falling embers and swirling smoke that still clung to the area. [I've waited all day for this... now where is my FFVII battle music I'm out to an actual table top roleplay tonight but I shouldn't be back to late. Gene's going to have some fun with you, so you all take care you hear ]

didn't see the new round, post moved there.

Mitra, or more accurately, six Mitras dance around and in the fire. Embers and sparks are kicked up by their feet and lifted into the air to hover and swirl as her hips shift. Smooth soft skin glows in the firelight, arms reaching inviting a warm embrace that would be unimaginable. You want to join her. Disrobe her. Nibble on her. Let her seduce you. The bone whip slides from her waist and with the flick of a wrist she brings it up and then down, the snapping tail like thunder. Breathe. She can't kiss you if your dead. ((Please post actions and include a will save against Mitra's invitation.))