G.A.S.P. Forum
GASP Forum => The Tavern => Topic started by: Baron Von Harper on March 10, 2008, 10:31:49 PM
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This will be the thread for In Character posts when the game is under way. We will start when the current players finish making their characters. Out of Character chat will be in the Conan PBP OOC thread.
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(This is some background information on the city before we begin).
SHADIZAR THE WICKED
(http://www.geocities.com/baronvonharper/shadizarmap.jpg)
The streets of Shadizar burst with life; garish nobility followed by pandering sycophants, wealthy aristocrats carried on high-borne litters, exotic merchants haggling with thrifty buyers, hungry soldiers parading back and forth in black armor, greedy mercenaries looking for fortune and glory, diseased paupers huddling in filthy alleys, odorous livestock herded for frenzied consumption and contaminated rats surrounded by a swarm of flies. Over the varying strata of life hang odoriferous miasmas; sweet smells rising from countless ovens, malodorous incense burning in bizarre temples and the cloying stench of local industries. The unending surge of life brings an eternity of clamor blaring with it; clanging gongs and banging bells resounding from distinctive temples, laughing children and shouting parents playing in littered streets, bleating sheep and lowing cattle booming in fruitless outrage, foreign crowds and local throngs pushing through narrow alleys, shouting criers and screaming servants bellowing out unheeded announcements and lamenting mourners and begging cripples sharing their pitiful woes.
In Shadizar it is cheaper to dispose of an incriminating corpse than to buy a horse to escape the city. The sweltering city is a den of vice and iniquity (and they like it that way). Shameful things done behind closed doors in other places are proudly done publicly and openly on roofs and in public squares. All desires no matter how disturbed or evil will most likely find what they are looking for, for the right price. Murder is common and the punishment for it, is lax, unless it was some high minded noble. Theft is as common as breathing. All citizens normally walk around carrying weapons to protect themselves from each other's desires.
For those that love drink, flesh, and a society that doesn't judge you, Shadizar is a virtual paradise on earth. But many call this place the most evil city on the face of the world.
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Night caressed Shadizar, that city known as the Wicked, and veiled the happenings which justified that name a thousand times over. The darkness that brought respite to other cities drew out the worst in Shadizar of the Alabaster Towers, Shadizar of the Golden Domes, city of venality and debauchery.
In a score of marble chambers, silk-clad nobles coerced wives not theirs to their beds and many-chinned merchants licked fat lips over the abductions of competitors nubile daughters. Perfumed wives, fanned by slaves wielding snowy ostrich plumes, plotted the cuckolding of husbands, sometimes their own, while hot-eyed young women of wealth or noble birth or both schemed at circumventing the guards placed on their supposed chastity. Nine women and thirty-one men, one a beggar and one a lord, died by murder. The gold of ten wealthy men was taken from iron vaults by thieves and fifty others increased their wealth at the expense of the poor. In three brothels perversions never before contemplated by humankind were created. Doxies beyond numbering plied their ancient trade from the shadows and twisted ragged beggars preyed on the wine-soaked patrons unconscious on the stone streets. No man walked the streets unarmed but even in the best quarters of the city arms were often not enough to save one's silver from cut purses and footpads. Night in Shadizar was in full cry, and it's evils would repeat again the following night, as it had done so for thousands of years.
On on this dark night, our story begins with a motley group of "heroes" watching the jiggling delights, as masterfully created wenches ply their trade on the main floor of a brothel known as "The Filthy Whore." With drink in hand, and a lap full of a beautiful female form, some might feel that they have found a home at last, while others wonder why they have fallen so far.
This brothel is in the Maul district, which is also called the Desert, since nothing good ever comes out of it. The Maul is the poorest section of the city, filled only with prey, predators, and scavengers.
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Nine women and thirty-one men, one a beggar and one a lord, died by murder. The gold of ten wealthy men was taken from iron vaults by thieves and fifty others increased their wealth at the expense of the poor. In three brothels perversions never before contemplated by humankind were created. Doxies beyond numbering plied their ancient trade from the shadows
Does this happen every night?
Krag hails from Ophia (has a lean body build), Appears Tan Skinned, Browned Eyed, with DArk wavy Hair. Attributes Agile and Smart are good, while his appeal his better than average. Probably dressed more in the manner of someone living off the land for the last couple years. He arms himself with a Mace and Bow.
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Nine women and thirty-one men, one a beggar and one a lord, died by murder. The gold of ten wealthy men was taken from iron vaults by thieves and fifty others increased their wealth at the expense of the poor. In three brothels perversions never before contemplated by humankind were created. Doxies beyond numbering plied their ancient trade from the shadows
Does this happen every night?
Shadizar is known throughout the world as being a rough place, and yes, things like that or worse, happen every night. >: )
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Hakim is an olive-skinned, hook-nosed man in his middle thirties, with a neatly-trimmed black beard and an old, faint scar on his right cheek. He wears a short merchant's robe and trousers, each of fine fabric, and a turban similar to those worn by Turanian aristocrats. Some of the other characters met Hakim in the market, where he was selling (among other things) adventuring gear; it may have been he who suggested that the PCs "refresh" themselves at the House of the Soiled Courtesan (or "The Filthy Whore," as some call it).
Hakim's current companion is a sulky, pale-skinned, red-haired young woman whose costume leaves nothing to the imagination.
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The laughter of the girls (and their faint whispers of pleasure that can be had upstairs) can barely be heard over the chaotic music of pipe, cymbal, undulating voice, and many string instruments. The band is playing their heart out for the Madam that doubles as a bartender. She has long since lost her luster, as the gray of old age is creeping into her hair, but her large chest still heaves beneath her billowing robes.
The girls of the main room giggle, tickle, bite softly, and rub themselves on the guests like cats do to mark their territory. There are many Zamoran women in the establishment of ages between 16 and 20, but there are also the rare delicacies of foreign lands such as a spirited Kothian with dark hair and bedroom eyes, a Brythunian with blond hair and round hips, and a tall Nemedian blond that seems like she was carved out of white marble by the gods themselves.
Almost all of the girls are topless, and have strings of coins around their hips that jingle when the walk and dance. The Kothian woman is an expert belly dancer.
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Xanos' heritage is impossible to place. He is taller than a Hyperborean, but his skin is as dark as an Argossean. His eyes are as pale as the Aesir, and his body is tattooed in a manner similar to the Picts, but in a language no one seems to recognize. He dresses in a simple black hooded robe and loose pants, much in the manner of a Zamorean, but his chest is bare beneath, in the manner of many Cimmurians. The sword at his belt is engraved with the symbols of the Church of Crom as are the fine black gloves he wears, but the exquisitely crafted silver bracers he wears around his wrists bear entwined serpents reminiscent of the Order of Set. His bearing is relaxed and observant with an edge of concentration and intensity. His hood is up, but his eyes still reflect the firelight brightly and shine from the shadows of his cowl. He is the most passively intimidating person any of you have ever seen.
He drinks only tea tonight, saying he wishes a clear mind, and despite occasional glances at the girls as they pass the table, he seems to have no interest in the exotic scenery.
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Brude sits on the right side of Xanos. Short like most Picts, Brude appears very strong, with arms as thick as his legs. His upper body is covered with intricate tattoos.
Brude is attempting to keep a close eye out for anyone looking to cause Xanos trouble, but his eyes tend to wander with all of the "scenery".
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A Zamoran stranger walks in and goes straight for the Madam behind the bar. He looks like he has lost more than his fair share of fights, as he is heavily scarred and has a nose that looks like it has been broken several times. She motions the dark haired Kothian girl to take her place behind the bar, before the Madam escorts the gentleman upstairs. He glances in your general direction but then turns again to the woman walking close ahead of him up the stairs. You hear hear laughter at one of the stranger's jokes, and then the door closes into one of the above rooms.
It is at this point that some of the girls are getting more pushy with their body language, and also with words, about going upstairs. Bastich, and most likely others, realize they make their money on tips, and more money if they can get someone upstairs.
The music changes to a more sultry slow and sensual song, that is meant to persuade people to do just what the girls are asking them to do.
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Though the girls are enticing, Krag wants to keep with his current company. If nothing else out of curiosity. Maybe they can help him find the goblet he seeks.
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"But Krag, there are plenty of goblets here, what more do you need to seek?" asks Brude.
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The Brythunian dancer with blond hair and round hips, notices that Xanos seems to take little notice of the girls that are throwing themselves at him. She slides closer trying to lock her eyes on Xanos' eyes. She moves her head up to his ear and speaks.
"I have some knowledge about a local noblewoman that might peak your interest, as us of the lower classes aren't worthy of your lusty gaze..."
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Xanos eyes roam up the form of the attractive dancer, eventually to lock on her eyes. Some trick of the firelight washes his pupils with a metal gleam for a moment and his hands tighten almost imperceptibly around his heavy mug. A muscle in his jaw twitches and his relaxed demeanor hardens to a hypnotic, predatory stillness.
A moment later whatever tension arose within him seems to retreat. He closes his eyes for a moment, and lifts his his chin towards the girl as he opens them, visibly relaxing once more. He slowly lifts his glass to his lips without taking his gaze off the dancer. He speaks softly. His voice is the soft rumble of distant thunder.
"No one offers information expecting nothing in return. What do you want of me?"
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The Brythunian dancer smiles.
"Of course I wouldn't give you information for free, silly."
She playfully slaps Xanos' shoulder.
"For the price of what I would charge for the use of my body, I will give you some information that my last patron let escape his lips when he was wrapped in my arms. I assure you that it is worth my fair fee..."
She winks, and smiles.
"And if you want, I can throw a free bedding in, that is, if you like what you see my Lord."
She takes on an innocent posture, and turns her face down, playing the role of a demure peasant well.
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A corner of Xanos' mouth twitches upward for a moment and a low rumbling chuckle echoes in his chest. A single medium-weight coin slides out of nowhere and dances across his knuckles only to vanish again as he takes another drink.
"You are assuming I would care about this woman who's secrets you are so eager to part with, or the use of your body. You have much to learn about negotiation, child. Tell me why I should be interested."
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"Well Xanos, if you aren't interested, I am sure I could take her off your hands" says Brude.
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Xanos' eyes do not leave the dancer.
"Let's hear what she has to say first."
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Bastich, who is a bit of a short scrawny fellow with dark skin and dark eyes. He is dressed probably a bit more stand out-ish then he should for a town like this. He has a sword that looks like it belongs to a guard, except its a bit rusty and not very well taken care of. Generally people that look at him have a generally disgusted/angry look on their face. Though at the whore houses its not so much the case.
"ah-hem......... Xano's, generally we don't come to a fine establishment like this to talk. We generally come here for these."
Points to her breast's. Then get the biggest slime-ball grin on his face you have ever seen.
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Xanos still does not take his hypnotic gaze from the dancer. His eyes are locked with hers. He answers Bastich, but speaks to her. His voice is soft and measured, like a snake charmer.
"To many that is true. I come for something else. As enticing as they are, they are entirely within her power and are unable to be truly taken or used by any other. They are also only as useful as the mind they are attached to. Knowledge, on the other hand, is true power. She offers it, and throws in her body to sweeten the lure. She must know something that burns at her to share, and she hopes to use it as leverage to escape her gilded cage. She wishes to rise above what she is so she emulates those who she sees as powerful. She plays at politics now. She approaches me because she recognizes that I alone in this room have tasted the fruit she desires. See the blush rising on her face? There is no greater opiate or aphrodisiac than power."
He pauses for a moment.
"Well girl? What is it you want? What are you really offering me?"
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Hakim croons a few well-worn romantic cliches at his red-haired companion, and asks her (in return for a few small coins) to perform a (non-contact) dance for him. He does this mainly to move her out of the way, so that he can keep one eye and ear on Xanos's dialogue with the Brythunian lady-of-negotiable-virtue.
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2d6+mind+noble rank
roll= 7
Total 13
Xanos thinks that the blond dancer genuinely has information to sell, and she seems to have come by it as she says she did. He thinks she is trying to make some coin.
The blond speaks to Xanos, "I thought perhaps since we did not interest you, she might, as she has finer blood in her veins that we do, but perhaps I was wrong. The knowledge I have can only be given upstairs. For those with knowledge make the rules..."
She moves over to Brude, and sits in his lap.
"Perhaps you sir, want to hear my tale of a noblewoman, while taking advantage of my curves upstairs?"
She has an evil grin, with a touch of desire in her eyes.
"I promise, I will bite."
Hakim's red haired dancer asks Hakim to wait for a moment and then heads over to the band. The tune changes to a song that will suit her dance. The notes are long and slow and alternate slowly between high and low notes. She takes advantage of her ability of contortions, and dances in a way that increases the heart beat, and makes any red blooded man look in her direction. Hakim gets his money's worth, as she comes very close to touching him at times, but does not touch him.
A dark eyed luscious woman, comes down the stairs to hear Bastich's comment. She smiles, and is dragging a whip behind her down the stairs. To say that the Gods had provided her with much, would be an understatement. With every step, she draws closer to the greasy little man. The other dancers part for her, as she makes a b-line for Bastich.
"I hear you like these."
At this point the woman forcefully grabs Bastich's head and almost suffocates him in her bosom. She is strong and holds him there for about 10 seconds.
"If you want more, follow me upstairs. If you dare, and only if you crawl..."
She turns and doesn't look back to see if she is being followed. You get the feeling she doesn't care either way.
Krag at this point realizes that he has attracted the attentions of two dark Zamoran twin beauties. The girls giggle and play with Krag's hair while whispering things to him he's never heard a woman say, and most likely, never will again. In unison they both motion him towards them with a single finger.
In unison they speak to Krag, "You aren't scared of us are you?"
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While Brude is enjoying all of this merry making, he is keeping a close eye on Xanos and those around him.
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"I thought perhaps since we did not interest you, she might, as she has finer blood in her veins that we do, but perhaps I was wrong. The knowledge I have can only be given upstairs. For those with knowledge make the rules..."
"That is true. I admit, you have piqued my curiosity. What is your name, girl?"
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"They call me Misty here, but of course that isn't my REAL name."
She bats her eyes a little to emphasize her point.
"It is dangerous for a girl to give out her real name. Those that do, normally end up skinned alive, and the cold corpse thrown into the ditch."
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Bastich checks his wallet.
"damn, I should budget more money for this place."
After a bit of agonizing over money or ass he decides on following.
"Wait up! Ill be just a second!"
He walks over towards his "companions"
"Hey, Xanos! You gunna be here for a while? Cuss I have some...... ahem... Important business with that nice woman with the whip. So are you and your money still gunna be waiting when I get back?"
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So are you and your money still gunna be waiting when I get back?"
"I promise nothing. Do what you will, Zamoran."
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"It is dangerous for a girl to give out her real name. Those that do, normally end up skinned alive, and the cold corpse thrown into the ditch."
"Misty then. I am Xanos. Sit. Let us return to our discussion."
Xanos motions to the seat vacated by Bastich.
"I believe you were about to tell me why I should be interested in the drunken ramblings of a former patron of yours regarding a noblewoman of questionable nobility."
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"Worthy sir," Hakim calls to Bastich (whom he probably met in the market earlier today), "if you find yourself short of cash, your humble servant" - the merchant bows - "would be glad to supply you with a small loan, on reasonable credit terms."
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Krag goes over embracing the twin beauties, "Enough chit chat, let's go upstairs where you can show me more"
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"Wait up! Ill be just a second!"
The nice lady with the whip, stops at the top of the stairs and folds her arms under her ample bosom. It seems she doesn't like waiting.
When she sees Bastich coming towards the stairs she yells.
"CRAWL SNAKE! CRAWL IF YOU WANT MY PLEASURES!"
She emphasizes her point, by cracking her whip on the wooden stairs.
"Misty then. I am Xanos. Sit. Let us return to our discussion."
Xanos motions to the seat vacated by Bastich.
Misty giggles.
"Actually, I find this one's lap to be very comfortable, though there is something that seems to be jabbing me."
Misty takes the opportunity to nibble on Brude's ear.
"I believe you were about to tell me why I should be interested in the drunken ramblings of a former patron of yours regarding a noblewoman of questionable nobility."
"Oh I was? Was there an exchange of coin? I don't remember that. Plus I'm still down here, and as part of the agreement, we must be upstairs so that I can tell of my secret."
Misty turns back to Brude.
"Will you take me up on my offer handsome, or must I waste more breath with your uppity friend here?"
Krag goes over embracing the twin beauties, "Enough chit chat, let's go upstairs where you can show me more"
With two exotic beauties under his arms, Krag makes his way upstairs (giving the nice lady with the whip a wide berth) and disappears behind a door. Much laughter and noise can be heard from the room, and it sounds like Krag is getting his money's worth.
(The details of the room I leave up to Mark's imagination, hehe).
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"Hold up sweety! but we gotta make this quick!"
Bastich dose in fact get on the ground and crawl but its one of the fastest crawls you have ever seen in your life while someone has had their stomic still touching the ground.
"Hopefully I wont get too tied down, in more then one way."
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"Will you take me up on my offer handsome, or must I waste more breath with your uppity friend here?"
The flames return to Xanos' eyes, and this time it is obviously not the firelight. His face again becomes a mask of stillness. When he speaks, his voice carries something unearthly in its tone.
"You do not observe well, girl. I pay Brude well to serve me. He is quite disciplined despite his exterior. I do not respond well to disrespect and you are quickly losing my interest. Luckily for you, I have recently decided I need to practice greater compassion. Would you like to start this negotiation again, or should I simply have Brude remove you from my sight?"
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"And as you can feel, I am well known for my sword," says Brude.
"Xanos, perhaps we should continue this upstairs."
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The blond sitting on Brude's lap, turns a few shades lighter at Xanos' rebuttal. She climbs off of Brude's lap, but seems like she is a little scared, and not sure what to say.
She takes another step away from them.
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"And as you can feel, I am well known for my sword," says Brude.
"Xanos, perhaps we should continue this upstairs."
Xanos finally pulls his gaze from the frightened dancer and looks at Brude. His relaxed posture resumes and he puts down his cup.
"Yes."
He places a single coin on the table, enough to pay for the drinks and then some, then slowly rises to his feet and straightens gracefully to his full height, towering head and shoulders over everyone in the room.
"Come girl. We will hear your story."
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Brude stands up and tells Misty, "after you."
Brude will follow Misty up the stairs, ready in case of any treachery, and remembering the scarred Zamoran who went up earlier.
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"Hold up sweety! but we gotta make this quick!"
Bastich does in fact get on the ground and crawl but its one of the fastest crawls you have ever seen in your life while someone has had their stomach still touching the ground.
"Hopefully I wont get too tied down, in more then one way."
When Bastich reaches the top of the stairs, the buxom Mistress grabs him by the short hairs on his neck with one hand, and his crotch with the other. He winches in pain, as she kisses him deeply. She drags him down the hall, and opens a painted black door covered in chains. The door opens, and Bastich sees contraption after contraption, chains and whips, and bars on the windows, with claw marks beside them. He might even be wondering if this was such a good idea, as he is thrown into the room. As the dark Mistress closes the door, another of the women dancing goes up to the door and puts a padlock on the outside. It seems Bastich is doomed to pleasure and pain.
Inside, the woman's screams of passion and pain, mix with those of Bastich's yelps and moans.
(Again I will let the player make up the details).
Misty's eyes look up and down at Xanos and Brude's body and smiles again.
"Both of you? It's been at least a few months since I've done that. You will of course each have to pay, but it seems I may enjoy this..."
Misty leads the way, once again exuding her calm and cool, and acting like a professional. She strips as she makes her way to her room, letting the few cloths she had on fall to the ground like leaves in fall.
They are lead into a sweet smelling chamber, with scents of oils, incense, and honey.
"Let's see what you have."
Misty closes the door.
(Again the details are left up to the players).
Orean (that quiet one of the bunch as he mulls over private thoughts) finds himself alone since Hakim is getting a personal lap dance from his red haired lusty beauty. Sighing into his drink, he looks around the room. A tall Stygian woman covered in serpent tattoos and exotic piercings with bronze skin, dark hair, and black bedroom eyes comes down from upstairs. She yawns a little and rubs her eyes as her hips move seductively even in half sleep. She goes over to the bar and talks to the woman that is now watching the place, and it seems like she is now working. She gets a green drink, that has floating sparkly things in it. She turns after she has a few words with the woman at the bar, and then makes her way over to Orean. She sits across from him and swirls her drink with her finger and sucks the liquid off of it. She stares into Orean's eyes, and says nothing, but Orean sees all sorts of messages displayed on her face, and all of them seem to involve him. She pours a little of the liquid over her sheer black satin clothing, and her supple body can be clearly seen underneath, with plenty of bumps from piercings and small chains connecting them.
"Are you thirsty from your travels? Because I'm wet, and in need of someone else's tongue."
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Brude will make sure the room is empty and then stand outside of the door, ensuring privacy for Xanos.
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Misty pouts a little that Brude is waiting outside, but settles down.
"I can see that you have little patience for my antics, so I will tell you the secret now my Lord."
She sits on the edge of the bed.
"There is a noble woman that seeks a husband. She is very picky, and has turned away many suitors. Her beauty and wealth keeps those that seek her hand to return time and time again. It is said that she is a collector of rare items, and before she was a collector of men as well. But it seems now, that she is determined to find the finest male suitor, and to give as dowry all of her possessions. With her hand comes much wealth and esteem. I thought perhaps you would be interested. She is a friend of mine, and has in the past used my skills... I could put in a good word for you."
"Does my Lord card to indulge in the flesh, or is the secret enough for you...?"
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"....... oh flarg."
Bastich gulps a bit and try's to turn away. Thats when he hears the lock click in.
"Look lady"
He shouts to the exotic woman.
"I don't know exactly what your into but unless it involves a lot of good ol' fashion rompy pompy fun then count me out. Id like to keep my ruggedly good looking body looking good......... hey are you listening?...."
She only grins and comes ever closer. Bastich gulps.
"What did I do to deserve this?...... oh yea, I remember now. That was pretty bad."
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It is said that she is a collector of rare items, and before she was a collector of men as well.
Xanos' eyebrow twitches slightly at this, but he remains impassive for the moment.
But it seems now, that she is determined to find the finest male suitor, and to give as dowry all of her possessions. With her hand comes much wealth and esteem. I thought perhaps you would be interested. She is a friend of mine, and has in the past used my skills... I could put in a good word for you."
"Does my Lord card to indulge in the flesh, or is the secret enough for you...?"
"This information is of use to me. Meet with her. Tell her that I am also a seeker of rare and lost things."
Xanos places a pair of coins on the table and ducks back outside the door. He nods once to Brude and begins walking back down the stairs. He speaks without looking back.
"Indulge yourself if you wish."
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Brude walks into the room with a grin.
He eventually comes out and walks downstairs to rejoin Xanos.
"Alas, she is not pictish and passed out after only a short time with a true man."
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Hakim appears to close his eyes during the red-haired courtesan's ministrations, but actually keeps them slightly open so that he has advance warning of any trouble. Finally, he places one hand on the redhead's shoulder (or whatever is convenient), leans forward, and says, in a low voice, "I believe the time has come for us to take our exercise somewhere more...private."
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Misty tells Brude that she will meet with the noblewoman as Xanos requested, before she passes out from her duties.
The red head smiles, and winks at Hakim.
"I have a place in mind, that might be interesting."
Instead of going upstairs, she grabs Hakim by the hand and walks him to the kitchens. She kicks out the cooks with a silent word, or with a forceful kick to the hind end, and locks the door as they leave.
She finds several sweet fruits, and other interesting foods and piles them up on a table that she clears with a loud crash of clanging pots and pans. She lays several towels down, and playfully throws some of strawberries at Hakim with a smile.
She disrobes what little she had on and stands in a glorious pose with a glint in her eye.
"Are you hungry my master?"
(Again feel free to make up what happens).
After the screaming and moaning has died down, and silence fills the black door room with the chains hanging off of it, one of the dancers goes upstairs and takes the lock off the door.
A sore and exhausted Bastich crawls out of the room.
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For Orean:
Orean (that quiet one of the bunch as he mulls over private thoughts) finds himself alone since Hakim is getting a personal lap dance from his red haired lusty beauty. Sighing into his drink, he looks around the room. A tall Stygian woman covered in serpent tattoos and exotic piercings with bronze skin, dark hair, and black bedroom eyes comes down from upstairs. She yawns a little and rubs her eyes as her hips move seductively even in half sleep. She goes over to the bar and talks to the woman that is now watching the place, and it seems like she is now working. She gets a green drink, that has floating sparkly things in it. She turns after she has a few words with the woman at the bar, and then makes her way over to Orean. She sits across from him and swirls her drink with her finger and sucks the liquid off of it. She stares into Orean's eyes, and says nothing, but Orean sees all sorts of messages displayed on her face, and all of them seem to involve him. She pours a little of the liquid over her sheer black satin clothing, and her supple body can be clearly seen underneath, with plenty of bumps from piercings and small chains connecting them.
"Are you thirsty from your travels? Because I'm wet, and in need of someone else's tongue."
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After an hour or so of pleasure, Krag pays the beautiful ladies and tips them well too. Also he asks their names in case he is in town again. He double checks that he retrieved all of his belongings.
Then Krag returns downstairs, with a huge satisfied grin on his face. ;D (like a kid that got into the cookie jar he wasn't supposed to ;D ) thinking "Double the pleasure, no it was more like Doubling the double pleasure! :D It is always a good way to start an adventure, there are not many ladies in the woods, and if there are they are not as easy. He meanders over to the table to see how his new friends faired.
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Krag finds Xanos sitting in the same spot he last saw him in. The rest of the table (and most of the rest of the room) has cleared, but Xanos still sits with his cup, seemingly lost in thought.
As Krag approaches Xanos inclines his head, but says nothing.
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Bastich walks back to Xanos and sits down by him. His shirt is torn to shreds and he looks like hell. He turns to Xanos.
"Are you done yet? Cuss I would like to leave here as soon as humanly possable."
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"Well then my tongue is a pure silver", Orean responded as he sat back to drink. His eyes gave the woman a somewhat interested glance, but he took his drink. Fairly sophistacated for such a place. "Though the cost of its exposure does not come cheap, nor does it come easy", the former pirate spoke with his regal aires and confident demeaner.
The pirate did have things on his mind. Those were mostly finacial though. To get his life back on track, he would need to acquire some wealth. Scoundrels could smell it. Thus he returned to their company. Though his thoughtful and reflective traits would be cloaked in his confidence and guile. He was no lapdog, and he was no mongrol mut. So he continued to play the game, at worse he would have the local riffraff throw him out.
"My tongue is a dagger, and my skill with its application is more than expert", he continued his explaination,"so tell me how do you intend to pay to tarnish it?"
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Krag's two lusty twins say their names are Saffron and Ginger, though he can probably guess these are not their real names.
Krag still has all of his valuables when he returns to the main room.
Orean's Stygian beauty looks a little confused at his words, perhaps she misunderstands or misses the meaning.
"I like that you are an expert with your tongue, but it is you that shall be paying, not I, for it's use." She smiles and winks.
"Your tongue will have to work around several metal studs though, as I am pierced in all manner of places."
She takes the opportunity to flash him, and Orean is sure he has never seen so many shiny things attached to so much luscious flesh.
-
"That's an interesting way to keep your valuables close", Orean responds in kind. He was not as eager or needy as his compatriots and thus he didn't let his sword unsheathe itself. "Paying to labor is fairly impractical", he said,"as is your boast. And you come down seeking my services and expect me to pay. While you've shown me guile, you've also shown that you're expect me to sheathe my blades so to speak, in a rather precarious place. Studs and rings snag and grip at hair and flesh. Which is not how you'd want me to remember you. so I leave you with the choice; you can pay for my skills and efforts, or you can find another who's letting his fleshsword think for him."
Orean continues to drink and he gazes about the emptying room. his Azure eyes watch over the other who seems genuinely lost in his drink and the other joining him. What was it that made this situation so familiar. Even as his eyes and thoughts wandered, the tall traveler regally sat, keeping his left arm covered by his cloak and the hand in his lap under a glove of course. The inked beauty wold be free to make up her mind, though he decided himself the prize. And there was little point to paying for what he could convince out of a naive stable girl later,if he so chose.
The predicament of gaining wealth or at least fame would need to be addressed later.
-
Krag nods to Xanos, and gets a new drink.
The he sits across from Xanos
-
After Hakim has finished satisfying his appetites in the kitchen (with the redhead), he gives the young woman a generous douceur, and saunters back to the common room, where the rest of the PCs are gradually gathering. He leans against a pillar and begins cleaning his nails with a small, innocuous-looking knife.
-
The Stygian beauty finally understands. She gets up without saying a word and goes back upstairs.
Eventually all the characters return to the main room that is decidedly more quiet now. The band is still playing some music, but it seems that there are few other patrons this evening and the woman are staying upstairs.
-
Looking at Bastich and Orean (being around Shadizar) "Where can we crash for the night?"
-
"I have been here in better part of 6 years, but if memory serves the cheapest inns are not too far from here", Orean says remembering how he learned to get a room off the credit of the stupid.
"though you might want to watch for the shades that wait till the drunks are looking for their bedding", Orean suggested. He'd stay up late to mug the muggers and sleep in the day. It was a way to make some coin and left him asleep when the like minded slept.
-
There are several establishments that are nearby, but most of them have their reputations, most of which aren't good. But to stay in the Desert or Maul as it is called, does take some sacrifice.
Eventually the Blond that entertained Brude makes her way downstairs. She slips out the main door of the building. Xanos may assume she is going to put in a good word with that noblewoman, or he may assume other things.
-
Brude will nurse his last ale, keeping an eye on the doors.
-
If Xanos noticed the girl leaving, it doesn't show. He sits as if he had never moved at all. He is so still that the tea in his cup does not even ripple. He seems lost in thought, brooding.
-
Krag says, "I think I would like to stay at a nicer part of town, than this."
Then he finishes the ale, and raises it to request a refill.
-
Hakim, who has been cleaning his nails, pauses for a moment. "Assuming you have the means," he says, "there are, I suspect, any number of suitable lodging houses in the Caravan District. I doubt they are much more expensive than the flophouses here in the Maul, and the proprietors will be slightly less likely to slit your throats."
-
"You can't blame a cutthroat for trying to make a living", Orean responded and pushed aside his empty beverage container. To idle before making plans for the night, he twirled his hat on his right hand.
"In fact you can almost count on their intent as a state of normalacy", continued the half cloaked man," though the best way I've found to deal with them is to adopt some of their ways. though you'll need to discover those on your own." Orean tossed on his hat and shrugged. "unless you gentleman have something to address with me, then I'm going to find lodging and a chance at some extra coin."
-
Orean I thought it was coin first and then lodging. I just said I'd rather bed down in a better part of town than this.
I did not say not to mug the muggers.
-
Bastice looks distant and a bit dazed still.
"Lets just get the hell out of here. I need to bathe..... oh god how I need to bathe."
-
Xanos finally looks up from his cup at the assembled table and scans the group with an unreadable expression.
"There was a reason I asked Brude to bring you all to me."
He puts his cup down and interlaces his fingers.
"I am looking for an ancient artifact. It resembles a perfect sphere of glass the size of a large man's fist. In the center is an elongated, narrow plane that runs counter to the grain of the rest of the orb. It is invisible unless the light is bright. When brightly lit, this imperfection lights up like a candle. The effect is much like that of a snake's eye, which is what the bauble was once named for. The Eye of the Serpent. It is doubtful that any of you would have heard of such a thing, but my search has led me here. I require your aid in finding it."
-
"forgive me Krag, i only presented you with an opportunity", Orean adjusted his seat to join the others. Yet the former pirate made sure his eyes had a view of the door. Old habits die hard.
"In one night it is rather difficult to gain a large soem of coin, bu ti'm hear to see what our proposition is", Orean was sure he was not the only one with need of capital.
-
Hakim also glances discreetly at the door, and gauges his chances of reaching it in the event he needs to run away. Then he puts away his nail-cleaning knife, and says, "I too would like to hear Xanos's proposition, and of the individual rewards attached to its fulfillment."
-
Bastich leans forward to Xanos.
"How much is this thing worht? Or better yet..... how much is it worth to you?"
-
"My funds are not limitless, and I have never been one to pay for a service before that service has been rendered. I believe in incentives. While in my service, I will provide you with food and a reasonable amount of drink. I will also provide for lodging when necessary and supplies should we need to travel. That is all I will provide until the Eye is found."
Out of the folds of Xanos' robe a small pouch in produced. He opens it, but does not empty it, in case there should be prying eyes about the room. He puts the bag on the table for everyone to peer into.
"Once found, all those at this table who are still in my employ when I recover the Eye will receive one of these."
Anyone who looks into the bag will see a single finely crafted oval-cut ruby the size of the end of a man's thumb.
"The man who provides the information leading to the Eye's location will receive two."
-
Krag asks, "What else do you know about the eye? Do you have any other leads other than it's last location was in the city - somewhere?"
-
"I know only that it made it's way here some 10 years ago in the hands of a thief posing as a merchant of rare and ancient artifacts. The Thief's name was said to be Sazak, but that may be an alias. Until it was stolen, the eye had been in the possession of the warlord Thulsa Doom. After his demise, his followers broke into several warring factions and iduring the conflict, Sazak raided the Temple Doom, stealing many artifacts. The Eye was among them."
-
(Sounds good to me). ;)
-
We are recovering the eye for the temple or just for you?
I also am looking for a goblet, The Goblet of Ishtar's feast. For mm..the order in Ophia, the high Druid Tremoss has need of it for a ceremony in 3 months time. Unfortunately I do not have anything as pretty as Xanos, but you can keep anything else you find on the adventure, if we return it in time Tremoss will probably have some reward.
-
Xanos' normally calm face takes on an impassioned hostility. His voice rasps, but does not rise.
"The Eye is mine."
And just as quickly, his calm mask returns, but now with a grim anger behind the eyes that was not there a moment ago.
"It always has been. I doubt it's secrets have ever been gleaned. From what I understand, Thulsa Doom was a fool who pretended at wisdom and power."
"If your quest for this goblet does not interfere with my search, both may be undertaken. Should there be conflict, understand that the Eye bears precedence. Should I lay my hands on the eye, finding your goblet will be a matter of moments."
-
"And I am looking for money....... or women....... or women AND money. In no particular order. You can keep your creepy eye thingy all you want, just as long as you end up paying me for it."
Bastich now leans back and puts his feet up on the table.
"But do tell..."
Takes a drink from his cup.
"How on earth are we supposed to find it now? You best clue is years old, this place was a dead end and I get the feeling even you don't know what to do next."
Bastich belches and leans back into his seat.
-
Hakim tries to keep from drooling after Xanos shows everyone the ruby. He also tries to estimate the ruby's approximate worth.
"Both the Eye of the Serpent and the Goblet of Ishtar's Feast sound intriguing," Hakim eventually says. "It appears, however, that the honorable Xanos has more information on the whereabouts of the Eye, and in addition believes he can use it to locate the Goblet. So it is reasonable, even just, to undertake the quest for the Eye first."
-
Four mangy looking Zamorans enter the main room, and choose a table (the only remaining one) and sit down. The girls come down the stairs or move over from the corners of the room to please them and try to take them upstairs.
-
Krag gets up and approaches the table of the Zammorians.
"I am looking for Sazak, anyone know him?"
-
Orean kept his mouth shut. The ruby had been a prize of the snake cult leader. Even on the sea, pirates and sailors knew the dangers of a port with a temple dedicated to Set. Rumors none the less. Rumors were habitually based on some truth somewhere. He would not be hasty, though the gem would be split up so many times at the cost of value. By itself he could get a ship, in a proportional payment would at least get him a start. Still so many adventurers wanting their piece could make all his work ammount to less tahn their employer could offer.
"What is this goblet worth? Rarely is one treasure worth so much without there being an alternate reason", he spoke. Though he was only quoting a smuggler he knew on his first ship. Knowing why a prospect was a prospect was the first step into haggling for more coin.
-
One of the Zamorans looks at Krag, shakes his head, and then goes back to the entertainment. The rest of them ignore Krag.
-
Krag will go and ask the bartender, if she knows of the Sazak.
-
Brude will keep a close eye on the Zamorans.
-
Bastich notices the zamorans. He wont do anything unless one of em pisses him off.
-
The female bartender shakes her head. "I can't say that I do know them, sorry."
-
Miko returns to the the table,
"Neither the new table nor the bartender here has heard of Sazak" ( is this pronounced Sajak - OOC: if so I want to spin the wheel when we find him?)
"Should we divide and try a few more bars? Except for you, Bastice I think you need a room first"
-
"I agree that we should inquire after Sazak at several local taverns," says Hakim, "and that splitting up and making multiple inquiries would increase our chances of success. However, we should probably travel in pairs, as the streets are quite dangerous."
-
Xanos' mouth turns up in a slight smile as he puts his bag away.
"We need a a location to operate from. Hakim, do you know of a reputable inn of moderate price? Preferably in a central location."
-
There are no good inns in the Maul, but they are cheap ones. There are no cheap inns outside of the Maul, but they are good ones.
-
"My largest concern is privacy. I defer to your expertise on the subject."
-
Krag has an ida, and inquires, "Do we have any idea what Sajak looks like? It would look really stupid going around and ank the man himself if he knows where he is?"
-
"I know he is a Hyperborean. He was described to me as having a large nose and a pockmarked face. Nothing more."
-
"Honorable Master Xanos," Hakim says, with a slight bow, "if privacy is your chief concern, there are several moderately priced lodging houses in the Caravan and Merchant districts. None are cheap, but all are reasonably discreet. Some of us, however" - he glances at the other party members - "may not be able to afford such lodgings without, ahem, pecuniary assistance."
-
"As I said, lodgings will be paid for as long as you are in my employ. Take us there."
-
Hakim knows where several nice discreet places are, and can lead the group there with ease. Sometimes, however leaving the Maul, isn't as easy as it sounds.
-
Xanos rises smoothly and waits for Hakim to take the lead.
"We will continue our discussion once we have accommodations."
-
Hakim recommends that the adventurers stay at the Sign of the Ice Worm, a quiet inn located in the Caravan District. He leads the adventurers out of the bordello and into the streets of the Maul, advising everyone to keep his weapons handy, as the neighborhood is never quiet at night.
-
Krag walks somewhere in the middle of the group, not having a high str.
(ood Do we need an exact marching order?)
-
Brude walks in front of Xanos, making sure no one gets too close.
-
It seems that a group of about 20 children immediately gather behind the group. These children are called the Dust, as they are the street urchins of the area that are never in short supply. Many eye the swords and weapons and stay back, but they seem to be following with hungry eyes.
-
Krag just continues on. He listens for any mention of Sajak's name, outside of the current party.
He thinks about tossing a handful of copper to the kids, but then we would always be swamped with kids looking for a handout.
-
Xanos walks behind Brude with his hood up, using his spear as a walking stick. After a few blocks, ignoring the children and seemingly lost in thought, he stops and turns toward the trailing mob, looking them over for a long moment. He takes a knee and silently gestures for them to come closer.
-
The children stop at first, but then cautiously move up to where the strange looking man is bending down.
Their eyes look distrustful, and more than one bears the marks of whips, or knife cuts on their faces and arms. The tallest of the children looks like a boy, but Xanos when he gets close up, realizes it is a girl hiding that fact.
-
"I seek a hook-nosed Hyperborean trader named Sazak. Should any of you know the whereabouts of this man, you may find me at the Ice Worm."
A glimmering coin dances across Xanos' knuckles, and then seems to hang in the air for a moment, spinning in the space between his palms.
"I will be most generous in my rewards"
His hands close together.
"But I give nothing without something in return."
His hands separate once more. When they part, the coin has vanished.
-
The girl leader nods.
"We will try to find this trader for you."
The children huddle together and scatter like their namesake - dust.
-
Xanos rejoins the group and gestures to Hakim to lead on.
-
Hakim leads on, glad to put distance between himself and the street urchins.
-
During your walk, you hear screaming ahead. You see 10 soldiers dressed in all black armor. They seem like they are going door to door, and one of them is dragging a barely clothed woman by the hair, and his other head is holding the severed head of an older looking man. The head has a long white beard, and long white hair, that is stained red from the blood that sprayed from the decapitation.
-
Brude will loosen his sword in his sheath.
-
Hakim believes that this is Someone Else's Problem. "Discretion, my friends, is the better part of valor when dealing with so many soldiers. Let us give them a wide berth."
-
Can we hear what the soldiers are asking of the residents?
-
(Knocking on door)
"Do you know where this guy lived?"
(Shoving the head closer to the person's face in the doorway).
"DO YOU KNOW WHERE THIS GUY LIVED!?"
-
And old woman in the door shakes and seems scared of the burly soldiers.
"Yyyyessss... he lived in the alley behind us..."
The soldier grins.
"Thank you for your service, here is a token of King Tiridates' gratitude."
The soldier gives her a small cloth back, that sounds like it has some coins in it.
The soldier, and his other black clad troupe drag the woman behind the building, passing your small group in the process. If you stare at them, their faces get angry by they don't stop. If you turn your faces down they pass without word.
The woman screams as they drag her by the hair back to the alley.
"AHHHHHHHGHGHGH!"
"LET'S GO WENCH! IT'S TIME WE LEARNED OF YOUR TRAITOROUS WAYS!"
In addition to the above sight, there looks to be a Slave Market further up the street. There is a raised auction block and a large crowd around it. Naked men and women are being auctioned and you can hear the shouting of bidders for the flesh.
There are more people in the streets now, many barely clothed women of all shapes and sizes pass by you, some of which eye you lustfully. Children scamper in and out behind the legs of some of the women (some of you see a few thefts in the process).
There looks to be a group of about 10 horses, each one has a rider that is sitting backwards, and painted in black dye. They look miserable and are sweating profusely (as some of the dye is being washed off by sweat). They are all tied together by a long rope, and at the lead is a priest of some religion. Hakim and some of the others familiar with the city, note that they are heading in the direction of the Temple District of the city.
(You can give me a 2D6 + Mind + (any career that has a religious theme) to see if you know the religion of the priest.
-
Hakim tries to ignore the soldiers, and instead casts an appraising eye on the slaves in the market, attempting to guess their countries of origin. Then he resumes his effort to guide the other PCs to the Sign of the Ice Worm.
-
Hakim notes that there are several naked slaves on the auction block, with some more behind the block that can't be seen just yet.
The first is a tall strong looking Aesir female that is well toned and has almost white blond hair. Unlike the other females on the block, she has shackles on her wrists and her ankles. She also has some recent lash marks on her back and legs. She looks in the eyes of those that would buy her, and she seems proud.
The second slave is a medium height but strong looking Cimmerian with dark short cropped hair. It looks like he has been hobbled to prevent him fleeing his masters, as the back of his calves have dark scars from what was most likely a deep cut. His eyes are downcast.
The third slave is a short wiry Ophirian male with dark hair. He is missing one eye, and has an impressive scar across his face. It appears that he is a juggler, as that is what his masters are now making him do to try to raise the bids for him.
And the fourth slave is a short Pictish beauty of a young woman with dark skin and long curly hair held behind her head by a metal band. She has intricate tattoos that look like they were burned into her voluptuous flesh.
It seems that the bidding is going to begin soon.
The horses with their painted riders, and the priest leading them move on out of sight around a nearby bend.
The soldiers disappear down an alley, but the wails of the traitor can still be heard.
-
There looks to be a group of about 10 horses, each one has a rider that is sitting backwards, and painted in black dye. They look miserable and are sweating profusely (as some of the dye is being washed off by sweat). They are all tied together by a long rope, and at the lead is a priest of some religion. Hakim and some of the others familiar with the city, note that they are heading in the direction of the Temple District of the city.
(You can give me a 2D6 + Mind + (any career that has a religious theme) to see if you know the religion of the priest.
Krag looks at the lady the soldiers have captured and tries to determine her motive (does she seem guilty or innocent and if possible does she deserve the treatment from the soldiers? -- as a merchant and slave you need to be able to read people's faces and thoughts)
Then Krag looks at the strange parade passing the party in the street
9 (2d6) + 2(M) + 2 (D) = 13
-
Krag 6 + 2 Mind + 1 Slave = 9
Krag thinks that the woman is guilty of something.
Krag also thinks that the painted men and the priest are worshipers of Gwahlur (Darkness, Prophecy). The God is known as the King of Darkness and they have strange rites to procure prophecy.
-
And the fourth slave is a short Pictish beauty of a young woman with dark skin and long curly hair held behind her head by a metal band. She has intricate tattoos that look like they were burned into her voluptuous flesh.
Brude will look at her tattoos to see if he recognizes her clan and whatever else they may tell him.
-
Brude thinks that she must be from one of the southern tribes, as there are some marks that remind him of their markings. He isn't sure of all of them, but he recognizes a few tattoos that dedicate her to the Gods, and dedicated to satisfying the priest's lust.
-
Xanos maintains his air or arrogant disinterest in the macabre events going on around him as they pass the guards and their hideous trophy.
As the group passes the slave market he scans the evend with detatchment and boredom until his gaze reaches the Aesir woman. Their eyes meet for a moment and he stops cold. His careful composure seems strained and the stillness and rage that the group saw a glimpse of at the brothel rises to a tangible feeling of menace that thickens the air around him.
His mouth slowly curls in disgust at the mob gathered around the flesh traders.
-
The bidding begins for the slaves as the party nears the area.
-
Sensing the "tangible feeling of menace" that rises from Xanos, Hakim tries to steer his companions around the slave market and on to the Caravan District, and the Sign of the Ice Worm.
-
(Does anyone want to do any bidding, or do you all pass it by?)
-
Xanos does not budge when prompted by Hakim, but it does seem to snap him back to reality.
"This will not be."
Xanos walks purposefully toward the outside edge of the crowd as the bidding begins and scans the crowd for the predictable "audience plants" who are there to drive the prices higher with false bids.
He then places a moderate rise on the current bid for the tall Aesir woman.
-
"Please, guys. I have had a bad night. I dont want to think about women anymore tonight...... wow never thought I would say that in my entire life."
This of course dosent stop Bastich from scanning the naked women and taking in the sights.
-
Brude looks eager to squash anyone who would even consider bidding against Xanos.
-
There are 10 other bidders that are raising their hands for the tall Aesir woman. She seems to be fetching a high price. You hear some of them mentioning that it will be fun and a challenge to break her will.
-
Hakim watches the auction with as little facial expression as possible. Very perceptive PCs will guess that he is either annoyed or worried.
-
Xanos takes note of the most eager bidders.
"Brude, Orean, go make your presence known to those two. Be discrete, but see what you can do to make them decide that they don't want a new slave that badly."
He turns to Gabboge.
"I am going to purchase that woman, but I do not want the filth selling her to reap the rewards of the transaction. If you can relieve them of today's profits after we leave, I will give you double what I pay for her."
-
Brude will go stand in front of one of the bidders and glower at him. Brude will have his hand resting on his sword hilt.
-
Bastich looks back over to Xanos, carefully considers.....
Money? Rest?...... who am I kidding.
"Alright your on."
"Just get me a nice bed ready at the inn and Ill be back later with the profits. This may take a while."
Bastich starts scopeing out the place.
-
Xanos makes another bid.
-
Brude and Orean make their presence known to the two most eager bidders with sneering, and getting right in their line of sight (touching their hilt of their swords seems to slow the bidding at first, and then they get the hint and stop bidding all together).
Because these two stop bidding, the bidding slows but is still moving (because there are now 4 other bidders that are remaining, as 4 have dropped out from the high price).
Xanos (and some of the others) note that the bid is high for a slave. It seems this one is worth her weight in silver.
Bastich makes his way to the auction block and sees 2 men that seem to be running this auction of flesh.
(Roll 2D6 + Mind + Thief to see if you can figure out who is most likely running the show, and who will be holding the money when the auction is over).
-
Brude will leave the stopped bidder with one last glare as he wanders over to stand in front of some of the remaining bidders.
-
Brude steps in front of the next bidder, but he doesn't seem to care that a large dangerous looking man is eying him up. He steps to the side and keeps bidding. He is a fat Zamoran Merchant, that doesn't seem phased in the least.
-
Well then Brude will have to accidentally step on the fat merchant's foot.
Roll 6 + Strength 4 + (Fighter 3 if it will help)
-
Bastich just sits back and observes the man, his manorisims and looks for any body gards or partners. He is going to take his time and also.
This guy has expensive tastes eh? I might need to take more then just that money back with me.
-
Brude tramps on the foot of the fat merchant REAL good like. He screams from the pain, and pulls a hidden dagger from beneath his cloak.
He badly misses however (rolled a 3).
"Watch your next step, or it shall be the first step in Hell."
Bastich notes that there are indeed several body guards, but they are well hidden in the throng around him. He notes several hidden weapons, that might sever a thief's neck.
-
Hakim sighs, and unties the leather cords that hold his scimitar in its scabbard. He does not yet intervene in the contretemps between Brude and the fat merchant, but he is prepared for a general fight if one erupts.
-
"Hah! Foolish son of a shriveled goat, the Lord of Beasts knows that I would never listen to one as feeble as you!"
Brude will not bother drawing his sword from its scabbard, but will instead bash the hilt into the fat merchant's ample gut.
[trying for subdual damage if that is possible]
Roll 7 + Strength 4 + (either Melee 2 or Brawl 0 depending on what this is)
-
Xanos takes advantage of the scuffle and bids again.
-
The fat merchant tries to dodge the hilt of the sword, but fails. The blow knocks out several of his teeth.
Go ahead and roll damage for your attack.
The Merchant grabs his bloody mouth, and spits out another tooth.
"You and your family will suffer for that..."
The Merchant leaves the throng of the bidders.
There are now 2 bidders and Xanos (as another one dropped out because of the high price). Xanos has not yet dug into the money he promised his party members, but he is spending a good deal on the woman.
-
Oops, Brude meant to hit the merchant in the gut, but it got the job done. Brude wipes off his pommel and wanders back to stand next to Xanos.
Damage is roll 1 + 1 sword + 4 strength = 6 total
-
Xanos gives Brude a glance and shakes his head slightly, tipping his head toward one of the other high bidders.
-
Hakim alternates between glancing at Brude's scuffle and watching the auction, taking mental notes that he hopes may prove useful in his future mercantile career. He rests one hand on his belt, near but not on the pommel of his scimitar.
-
One of the final bidders does not rebid, and there is now only one other bidder for the tall blond.
-
Xanos waits until the other bidder raises the stakes, and then jumps the price an unexpected amount.
He calmly stares at his competitor.
-
Krag looks over the slaves, having lead the life himself once, identifying the duites they had done and maybe would be expected to do. Also looks to see if he recognizes any of them.
-
The last bidder looks at Xanos, gives a rude gesture (that Xanos might not recognize, but Zamorans would) and turns away from the bidding.
A strong looking dark skinned Zamoran leads the angry blond off the auction block, and walks her naked over to Xanos. The chain is handed over when Xanos hands over his promised bid.
The man stands there with an open hand, waiting for the bag of coins.
Krag does not recognize any of the slaves. Some of the slaves will be sold to whore houses, other to hard labor in mines, some will die simply because their master wants to torture them and hear their screams. All of this is second nature in the city of wickedness.
By saving one life, you ignore the hundreds of others that suffer and die due to selfish whims and lusts...
-
Xanos pays the man without looking at him and walks away with the Aesir woman without saying a word.
-
Brude will follow behind Xanos, keeping an eye out for anything.
-
Krag will also follow Xanos.
-
Hakim resumes guiding the party to the Sign of the Ice Worm, the inn where we plan to spend the night (or what's left of it).
-
Once the group is out of sight of the throng of people, Xanos removes his hooded robe and offers it to the Aesir woman.
He then speaks to her in an archaic and formal dialect of her native tongue
"Things are not what they seem. Your people and mine were once the strongest of allies. You are not chattel like the other poor souls on that block. I will explain more once we are safely away."
-
At first the woman resists every attempt to be guided, but Xanos' calm words make her steps more even and less resisting. She also seems a little curious, but puts the cloak on.
Hakim works his way though the city, avoiding anymore trouble along the way.
You finally make your way to the Sign of the Ice Worm Inn. It has a large bustling common room, with attractive women serving drinks and food. A hideous looking man is behind the bar. He seems like a child that was born deformed, and somehow survived his childhood, and lived to adulthood. His eyes seem mean but fair.
-
Without his outer robe, Xanos seems nearly inhuman. His nearly black skin carries pale blue patterns which match his strange eyes and run across his bare shoulders, along his flanks and disappear beneath his broad belt. He moves with the patient grace of a large predator, relaxed and unassuming, but still passively deadly.
Xanos hands Brude a small pouch with moderate weight to it.
"I know little of what constitutes a fair price in this city. I leave that to you and Hakim. Three adjoining rooms."
He moves to a table at the edge of the room with his recently purchased Aesir.
"Sit. I have a story to tell."
-
Brude turns to Hakim, "you talk to the barkeep about the rooms. Fights tend to breakout when I talk to people."
-
Hakim sidles over to the barkeep. "Peace be unto you, good sir," he says, unctuously. "My companions and I wish rooms for the night - preferably three, preferably adjoining. We would also like a meal and a bottle or three of moderately-priced wine. What would be a fair price for these modest requests?"
-
The barkeep grumbles, and looks at the keys behind the counter.
"For a little extra I can give you 3 adjoining rooms, but I will have to move a person. "
He mentions a price that is about twice that of the Inn you last stayed at in the Maul/Desert, which is fairly normal for this district.
"How long you stayin' for? You want any Horta Grass, or Lamossa? They cost extra."
Anyone that has been in the city for a short amount of time knows that these are drugs. Lamossa is very addictive, but is very pleasurable. Horta Grass is less addictive, and gives a shorter high.
-
Xanos makes brief eye contact with Brude and shakes his head, confidant that his bodyguard will know of his distain of such weaknesses and those who use them. He then turns back to the Aesir woman.
"The reason for your good fortune lies in the history of your people. Long ago a brilliant and powerful emperor conquered nearly all of the known world. He believed that the strongest and brightest were meant to rule over those less able. His armies conquered every civilization they cam across, but also united the world in a way never before seen. He created roads and schools and allowed for many of the greatest exchanges of ideas the world has ever seen. Sadly, he was arrogant and believed that greatness was something that was ingrained in a people and was hereditary. He believed a person's station was based on the potential of their birth, and not the actions of their life. He raised his own people, believing them to be the greatest, above all others. When scholars were critical of this, he silenced them with a challenge. He said that every nation and culture he had conquered could send their best and brightest and if any of them proved to be his equal in a series of mental and philosophical challenges, he would raise their people to a station equal to that of his own. Only the Philosopher King of the Aesir, Votan the Blind, proved to be the emperor's match."
Xanos pauses for a moment.
"Have you heard this story?"
-
She shakes her head, and opens her mouth. It looks like her tongue has been removed in the last month.
Her eyes get watery, but she seems stubborn and doesn't let a single tear fall.
-
Xanos' brows furrow at the sight of the Aesir woman's missing tongue. He nods in resignation.
"So these are not tales the Aesir still tell. Sad. I hope they do not lose their meaning with the loss of the telling."
His eyes drift downward to the table and seems to become lost within himself as he continues his tale.
"The Aesir were raised up as equals to the Emporer's people. They were strong and wise and proud and unlike the Emperors people who were also arrogant and self-righteous. Votan the Blind became not only the Emperor's equal, he became his friend. Perhaps his only friend, and through that influence the emperor learned that his ideas were unsound when tested over time. Votan's wisdom caused change and would have lead to a world where social status was based on merit rather than heritage or wealth. There was an uprising, the emperor was deposed by his own son and the empire fell. The nations retreated into themselves once again, but the Aesir never lost the grace the had gained during those worldly times. Their king instilled them with a sense of self-worth and a sense of right and wrong that has not faltered in three thousand years."
Xanos pauses again.
"You see, I purchased you to honor him. The Aesir are not chattel. You are not broken, despite your scars. Votan's lesson was that one does not need sight to have vision. In you I honor him."
Xanos unlocks the collar and sets it on the table.
-
The woman seems shocked for a moment, and looks down at the collar. She smiles, and this time tears do fall from her eyes. She reaches out her hand and touches Xanos' hand. With her other hand she touches her chest where her heart is. She nods, but she doesn't leave the table.
-
"We greatly appreciate your aid in arranging three adjoining rooms for us," Hakim says to the barkeep, "but my employer" - he nods toward Xanos - "would have my head if I paid so dear a price." Hakim offers the equivalent price for three private rooms in an inn in the Maul district. "That would seem much more reasonable."
Hakim hopes the innkeeper is in the mood to haggle. (In some cities it's against the rules not to haggle.)
-
Hakim's Barter Roll 8 + 0 Appeal + 2 Pirate = 10
Hakim barters better than the grumpy barkeep.
"Tell you what, you drive a hard bargain for your master. I'll charge you for 2 rooms, giving you 1 room for free, and I'll throw in the food and drinks for free."
(If you want to keep bartering let me know).
-
Hakim makes a long face and strokes his chin nervously, then says, "Well, I suppose your offer is as close to fair as we can expect. I will warn you that my companions' appetite for food and drink can be great."
With that, Hakim pays the innkeep for the three rooms (from Xanos's gold, of course), and returns to the company of the other PCs.
-
The Innkeeper passes 3 keys to Hakim, and 3 pieces of parchment with his chicken-scratch signature on them.
"Show this down here in the common room for free food and drink. You can retire to your rooms whenever you like, they are on the 2nd floor down the hallway to the right, the numbers are on the keys (#12,13, and 14). Bathroom is at the end of the hallway."
-
Hakim brings the keys and parchment slips back to Xanos, and distributes them as Xanos directs. He then suggests that the party retire to the common room for a late supper and ale.
-
"Yes, some and ale and food would be good. Followed by more ale!!!" says Brude.
-
The common room is filled with roughly 40 ne'er-do-wells and other sundry wastes of human flesh (though these are a big improvement over the scum in the Maul). There are scattered among the throng some more upscale merchants and craftsman.
A female band comprised of dark skinned beauties is playing almost completely naked, save for the vivid paint and bone piercings though their face, necks, shoulders, and breasts. They are playing a very fast rhythmic acoustic set, accompanied by background female moaning vocals that sound tribal.
Drinks are flowing, games of chance are being played, darts are being thrown, and much gluttony is in progress.
-
As the group rejoins him, Xanos is finishing his conversation with the Aesir woman.
"...you are free. I have not much left to spare you, but I can offer some coin with which to clothe yourself. At some point, I will need my robe back. I tend to draw eyes without it."
Xanos puts a few coins on the table next to the woman's collar.
"You are welcome with us this evening. In the morning I recommend finding your own way. You are welcome with us, but unless you can swing a sword you may find our company dangerous. I suspect blood will be shed before my goals here are accomplished."
-
While seated at the table, Krag looks over at Bastice sees the bruises starting to darken and the tears and cuts it looks like he's been through a war, and whispers to him, "Might I suggest you wash up and then join us?"
-
"Wench, bring us food and ale!!!" shouts Brude at one of the serving wenches.
-
The tall Aesir woman shakes her head, pushes the coins back towards Xanos, and then folds her arms under her breasts in a defiant pose. It seems that possibly she doesn't want to go anywhere, and doesn't want the coins.
A tall athletic Zamoran woman, with several spider tattoos on her hands, arms, and thighs brings 2 large pitchers over to the group. If you show her the parchments telling her the food and drinks are free she plops them down for free.
"What do you masters want to fill your hungry bellies? Are there any other pleasures that you seek that I may satiate?"
-
"Food enough for a dozen men because I am hungry. And bring some food for my friends as well!"
-
She returns about 15 minutes later with steaming piles of roasted meat, corn bread rolls, 2 loafs of bread, a couple bottles of wine.
"If you masters want anything else, just raise your arm and shout."
-
The tall Aesir woman shakes her head, pushes the coins back towards Xanos, and then folds her arms under her breasts in a defiant pose. It seems that possibly she doesn't want to go anywhere, and doesn't want the coins.
Xanos raises an eyebrow. He leaves the coins where they are, but nods in understanding.
"You wish to stay then?"
-
She nods yes, and partakes of some of the food and drink on the table.
-
Xanos nods again.
"Can you wield a blade?"
-
Munch. Crunch. Sluuuuurp. "Mmm. This is good. Are you going to eat that?"
-
While the party is eating (enter possible hooks for players to bite on... hehe) the dirty female child (the dust of the Maul) enters rather shyly into the establishment. She runs over to Xanos and smiles. She nods her head and she looks a little unsure of how she should act at this moment in time, but the nod suffices it seems.
"I bring word on your hook-nosed Hyperborean trader named Sazak, and a love note from a certain whore from your last place of... business. The whore gave me this piece of parchment. She said I wasn't to look at it, but I did."
She smiles. ;D
"All it is, is an address of a place in the Temple District, and a word at the bottom. She wouldn't tell me anymore. I don't think she liked me very much, and I don't think she cared to meet the lot of you again."
The parchment does have a map for the Temple District, and a single word inked on the bottom of it saying, "Mellanarma."
"For the merchant however, I think we agreed on payment. Let's see it! I'm not getting stiffed again."
She makes a stern face that seems to be her "tough face" but it is rather comical.
You notice now that several of the other dust children have sneaked below tables, and a few are looking in through the windows.
-
Brude will wait for Xanos to finish his transaction with the girl. He will then complain that the food is not quite right and throw some of it off of the table. It happens to land in the vicinity of the "hidden" dust children.
-
The children make that which hits the floor, disappear under dirty clothes, and large bites of it to hide in their stomachs. Several of the children smile at Brude. He gets the feeling, he has made some friends in the ranks of the dust.
-
Xanos listens to the dirty child and smiles.
"You work quite quickly."
Xanos extends his empty hand, curls his fingers one by one into a fist, turns his hand over above the little girl's outstretched hand and then slowly opens his hand once again. Small weight coins begin dropping from his hand to hers. It quickly becomes apparent that the small coins add up to more than the single heavy one Xanos offered her earlier. They continue to pour until she has to use both of her small hands to catch them. By the time Xanos retracts his hand, she has half again what she thought she was going to get.
"Now tell me of Sazak."
-
The Aesir woman nods to Xanos's question if she can wield a blade.
The girl child tells Xanos, "Sazak is one that is said to deal in high priced bizarre and occult items. He has no shop in town, but is said to arrange deals with wealthy merchants who normally have high priced places of business. We did not find out where he lives exactly, but several of the city guard claim that he lives outside of the city to the East in the country that is swarming with the warring clans of the Hillmen. They see him from time to time coming in from the East. He bribes them well, so that they do not search the wagons, but the guards said that he didn't tip them not to talk about it."
At this the girl smiles. ;D
"I tried to talk to some merchants, but they wouldn't talk to me. I would guess that you can most likely arrange a meeting with one of Sazak's minions by talking to a wealthy merchant that doesn't mind dealing in such strange items."
"So he lives in the East mountains, and comes into the city from time to time. If you want, for a slight fee... the Dust could keep an eye on the city gates and see if he comes in. I have a pretty good description from the city guard."
-
Xanos nods to the child.
"You have done very well. I should have learned the worth of employing resourceful children long ago. It would be useful to me to have an eye on the gates, but as I have said, I do not pay before I have results."
Xanos spins another coin across his knuckles.
"Should you come to me with news of his whereabouts the next time he enters the city, you will be rewarded once more."
-
Xanos passes the parchment to Hakim.
"Do any of you know of this place, or what "Mellanarma" may be?"
-
Krag takes a loaf of bread and hands it under the table as well, to the children.
Then Krag fills his own plate and digs in with abandon.
When Xanos asks about the paper, Krag mumbles between food and ale "Didn't your lady-friend at the last establishment promise the name of a high class whore that may have some info you were seeking?"
-
"Indeed. Though it seems odd for the lady in question to have her name delivered in such shoddy fashion, or to wish to meet in the Temple distrect. Hardly a position of power for a noble. I feel as if there is something I am missing. Perhaps I am simply paranoid."
Xanos seems to become lost in his thoughts for a moment, then abruptly comes back to the moment.
"It may indeed be the name I seek. Do any of you know that area of the city?"
-
The Temple district is known by those who live in the city to be very bad for thieves that wish to steal from the temples... >: )
-
Hakim, who has been quietly eating his dinner, carefully wipes his mouth and chin with the tablecloth (assuming there is one - his sleeve otherwise) and has a close look at the map of the Temple District. He also meditates on the word "Mellanarma" and wonders if he's ever heard it before.
-
Hakim 8 + 0 Merchant + 2 Mind = 10
Hakim mutters the word to himself, and thinks he has heard it before. He thinks it is the name of a noble.
-
Hakim shares his recollection about Mellanarma with Xanos and the rest of the party. "Perhaps this aristocrat lives in the Temple District, or near it."
-
Maybe Mellonarma is just very devout and can easily be found at the temple. Of course I think the friend of the wench at "The filthy whore" said her friend pleasured men too, and on second thought the two don't usually go together...
-
Xanos muses to himself.
"I remember once being approached by a priestess of a church that only accepted females into their clergy. Sexual congress was their form of worship, the way they wove magic and their way of communing with their goddess. Their flock were very happy folk, and collection plates overflowed at every holy day."
He smiles slightly.
"Tomorrow we will seek this Mellanarma."
To the child he hands three coins.
"Two of these coins are for Misty, the girl who gave you this note. The third is for you. I will not mention he breadth of my displeasure should I find that you failed to deliver the coin to the girl."
-
"I will give the money to this Misty. Thank you. I will let you know if we see this strange merchant."
The girl, and her children associates leave the inn, and many have smiles on their faces (a long with some of the food that was given to them).
The noise of the common room gets louder as two men step outside to settle an argument over who will bed first the girl they just won in a game of chance. The shouts continue outside, as several people go there to see the fight. The fight is over quickly, as one of them pulls a knife and slashes the other's neck. The bleeding body is left in the street, and the crowd returns inside to carry on as if nothing just happened. Another death in the city, like so many raindrops that are not worth much.
-
After finishing his meal, Hakim will take out a worn pack of cards and find an empty table (if there are any) to set up a game. He will ask Krag and/or Brude to join him (in case a fight breaks out), but leave a couple of chairs open for NPCs. Hakim will play a deliberately mediocre game in order to take the edge off of the other card-players' suspicions, then try to start a conversation about the city and its people - especially merchants (like Sazak) and nobles (like Mellanarma). With any luck, he'll be able to turn up a bit more information about these people.
-
Krag moves over to join Hakim at the open table, At times I've had a sense about other people and motives. Krag will play to stay a little bit above even too.
(other sense is +2, and Mind is +2 -- both of which will help in a game of chance)
-
Brude will nurse his ale, keeping an eye on the crowd around Xanos and the other eye on Hakim.
-
Seeing a new game of chance start up, 2 men that look like Zamoran brothers motion with their hands at the table.
"Care if we join?"
They sit down before you answer.
For the first hand of cards everyone that is playing roll 2D6 + Other + Mind (Good call Mark).
Player #1 gets 10 + 2 = 12
Player #2 gets 4 + 2 = 6
Whoever rolls the highest wins the hand.
-
Hakim deals the cards, then plays his hand. He tries to play a little less competently than usual, in order to draw the NPCs into the game.
Card-playing roll: 4 + 2 (Mind) - 1 (self-induced mediocrity) = 5
-
Krag lays down King through 9 in Hearts
Krag says "Is this good?"
( I rolled an 11 + 4 =15 .... had I rolled a 12 it would have been a royal flush)
-
Krag wins the first hand, getting an evil glare from the player that had a 12... "Let's play another few hands."
The other brother grumbles, but get out more coins for the next hand.
-
Krag's next 10 hands:
1) 2+4 = 6
2) 7+4=11
3) 8+4=12
4) 5+4=9
5) 3+4=7
6) 5+4=9
7) 6+4=10
8) 10+4=14
9) 11+4=15
10) 7+4=11
If Krag senses they are loosing the interest of the Zamoran brothers he will fold in the some of the last 3 hands.
-
Hakim's next ten hands are:
#1: 6+2-1 = 7
#2: 10+2-1 = 11
#3: 7+2-1 = 8
#4: 9+2-1=10
#5: 5+2-1 = 6
#6: 6+2-1=7
#7: 10+2-1=11
#8: 11+2-1=12
#9: 9+2-1=10
#10: 9+2-1=10
Like Krag, Hakim will fold the last 2-3 hands if the other players are getting bored. After one of the NPC players has won a hand or two, Hakim will "casually" say to Krag, "It's good to have some decent players for a change. Remember when we were playing this with those young nobs [nobles] a couple of days ago? They could barely even read their own cards, and had no idea when to bet or when to fold."
-
Krag won the opening hand, and these are the results of the next 10 hands.
Player #1 wins 1st hand.
Hakim and Krag split the 2nd pot.
Krag wins the 3rd hand.
Hakim and Player #1 split the 4th pot.
Player #1 wins the 5th hand.
Player #1 wins the 6th hand.
Player #1 wins the 7th hand.
Krag wins the 8th hand.
Krag wins the 9th hand.
Krag and Player #2 split the 10th hand.
Krag and Player #1 tie for the hands won. Player #2 looks really pissed off, but not at Krag and Hakim, but more at his brother. He gets up, nods in your general direction, and leaves. Player #1 however stays, as he has won a fair share of coins.
Player #1's hands
1) 8
2) 7
3) 8
4) 10
5) 10
6) 11
7) 13
8) 9
9) 7
10) 4
Player #2's hands
1) 7
2) 9
3) 6
4) 8
5) 7
6) 5
7) 11
8) 6
9) 9
10) 11
During the 10 hands, Player #2 is sullen and quiet, not saying much, but Player #1 is full of talking (he's full of himself). Player #1 speaks much of winning hands, and bare knuckle boxing that sometimes takes place in the basement of the Inn, and that he has won many a fight there. When words of nobles are brought up, he laughs, saying he's robbed several of their livelihoods in many various ways, some legal, most not. He chuckles heartily.
"Play some more hands? You seem to still have some silver coins that would jingle ever so nicely in my bag. That is, until I spend them on that finely chested wench over there."
Sure enough there are several finely chested wenches in the corners plying their trade, of which they seem able to perform at the drop of a coin.
-
"Let us play a few more hands, at least. Perhaps the cards will begin to favor me at last."
Hakim continues to play badly, however. His next five hands are as follows:
#1: 5+2-1 = 6
#2: 5+2-1 = 6
#3: 7+2-1 = 8
#4: 6+2-1 = 7
#5: 6+2-1 = 7
"The young nobs we beat at cards the other day were so upset they said they would sic 'Lord Mellanarma' on us. I didn't know whether to laugh or be frightened." Hakim will watch the other player (or players, if another NPC has joined the game) to see if there's any glimmer of recognition.
-
Krag will look around for a forth player and if there appear to be potential players he will try to invite one more to the table.
"Unfortunatly the nob mentioned Mellonarma just before he left the table."
5 more hands...
7+4 = 11
6+4 = 10
9+4 = 13
7+4 = 11
8+4 = 12
-
"Mellanarma, she's no Lord, but a fiery minx with her head wrapped all in religion. I hear she performs strange rites with young men. I've also heard tell, not all of those that wish to have their flesh pleasured by her, return with all of it... or never return at all. I'd leave your male jewelry in a box before I want to see her." He laughs heartily and plays another 5 hands.
Player #1 & Krag split the 1st pot.
Player #1 takes the 2nd hand.
Krag takes the 3rd hand.
Player #1 takes the 4th hand.
Krag takes the 5th hand.
Player #1's hands
11
12
6
14
10
"I'm liking you gents more and more as the night goes on."
Player #1 pulls more coins into his pile.
Krag manages to find a drunk woman, and and old man that would be interested in playing some more hands.
Some of the people in the room look at Xanos now and again, and several can't seem to look at him long if he returns their gaze.
-
As Krag Shuffles the deck for the next hand he says, "Remember the guys that said we should meet Sajak? a local merchant?"
3 + 4 = 7
8 + 4 = 12
8 + 2 = 10
9 + 2 = 11
10 + 2 = 12 (If I won 2 hands this round, fold this hand).
-
"Aye," says Hakim, "we were told this Sazak was a dealer in objects most rare, but not much more than that." He glances briefly at the other player, hoping he'll say something about Sazak.
Hakim orders a round of ale for the table, then plays his next five hands:
6 + 2 - 1 = 7
10 + 2 - 1 = 11
11 + 2 - 1 = 12
3 + 2 - 1 = 4
7 + 2 - 1 = 8
-
(Sorry busy all of a sudden, I will post tomorrow).
-
Player #1
6
8
12
10
4
"I never heard of a merchant by that name, but they are all cheating bastards as far as I'm concerned. Watch your hair on your arse, they will take that if they think they can sell it..."
Drunk Woman
8
9
11
4
3
"Merchants... burp... make good lover... burp... s, unless they like children, which most do."
Old Man
10
9
11
5
8
"I'd be careful with Sajak, I heard he has a nasty reputation, and is a sorcerer besides."
Old Man wins the first hand.
Krag wins the2nd hand.
Hakim and Player #1 split the 3rd pot.
Krag wins the 4th hand.
Krag folds, Hakim and Old Man split the 5th pot.
-
Krag replies " A sorcerer and merchant - that is a nasty combo."
-
Player #1
"Aye, kill 'em quick from behind before he can wave his blasphemous arms, and gob with his evil lips the cursed spell that will shrivel your manhood!"
"HAR HAR!"
Old Man
"I've heard it said, that to interfere with infernal powers, is to invite their attention on you. I'd rather not make their acquaintance, or be noticed by their eyes. Those that mess with them, and those that summon them, pay dearly for their dark art."
The Aesir woman sitting across from Xanos smiles and pulls up a chair beside him. She leans over and attempts to kiss his forehead. She doesn't do it in a sensuous way, but it seems more in a way of thanks.
-
Xanos maintains his characteristic stillness and accepts the kiss. His only visible response is the raising of his eyebrow and a slight upturn of his mouth.
"You cannot speak, and never learned to write. Learning your name may prove quite difficult."
-
She shrugs, and smiles, and even laughs a little.
She makes her hand move in motions that seem like they might be writing in the air, and then points to Xanos, and then back to her. She then has a questioning look on her face.
The card game breaks up abruptly, when a fat drunkard of a man falls face first into the table, throwing the cards and coins scattering all over the floor. All the players make a mad rush to get the coins. It seems the large man was thrown there by another large man that seems to be slurring something about a whore he likes...
-
Xanos observes the scene at the card table and purses his lips.
"It seems I failed to add the phrase "calm" to my description of lodging choices."
-
Krag grabs his coins and looks at the drunk for injuries....
-
Brude will have tight hold on his tankard, ready to smash it over the head of anyone who decides to get rowdy towards Xanos' table.
-
Hakim swiftly scoops up his coins, gathers his cards, and counts them to make sure he's got the whole deck. His brow furrows slightly as he notices one is missing. Then he brightens, leans down, and (with some effort) pulls the missing card from under the drunkard's arm.
"Thank you all for a pleasant game," he says to the other players. "It's too bad our last, uh, participant was a little too enthusiastic about joining in."
-
The drunkard rolls into another table, attempting to right himself, irritating several other patrons there. Two burly bouncers approach, with several dark scars on their forearms and wrists, and escort the feuding "gents" outside.
The common room calms down after the tables are righted and the chairs are brought back. One of the broken chairs is replaced and things continue as usual, the noise of the room picking up with time.
-
Krag is still hungry so he goes over to Xanos' table Drains his Ale and raises the empty tankard and requests more.
Then he begins to devour more food and ale.
-
Plates of steaming roast pig make their way over to Xanos' table. The bar wenches are good at carrying lost of plates and multiple mugs of ale, and keep them from falling even when being groped as they pass the multitude of tables.
The price might have been steep, but you all feel like gluttons with the amount of food and drink being served.
-
She makes her hand move in motions that seem like they might be writing in the air, and then points to Xanos, and then back to her. She then has a questioning look on her face.
As the excitement dies down and the table fills with food and people, Xanos turns back to the Aesir woman.
"Were you asking if I could teach you to write?"
Xanos leans back as the arms of his companions reach for the steaming food. He takes a small sip of the beverage in his cup, but still makes no motion to eat.
-
The Aesir woman nods, and smiles. She then takes a hefty bite out of a chunk of roasted pork, and she makes the "mmmm" noise.
Those that played in the card game have scattered to the wind.
-
"I think that can be arranged. We will still have to call you something until you learn how to write your name."
Xanos turns to the rest of his companions as they begin eating.
"Have you learned anything useful from the natives?"
-
Between bites of roast pork and swigs of ale, Hakim tells Xanos what he and Krag have learned of Sazak/Sajak (the merchant) and Mellanarma.
-
Xanos nods.
"The merchant is a sorcerer as well. That is not unexpected. What is odd is that any man capable of manipulating aether would sell the Eye. It may be that his skills are too meager to uncover it's mysteries. Other scenarios do not bode well."
Xanos sips his cup and seems retreat into himself, lost in thought.
-
Maybe he is a sorcerer because of the eye? - suggests Krag
-
Hakim picks up an apple and begins cutting slices and eating them off his knife. In between bites, he tells Xanos what he and Krag have learned of the party's other "person of interest," Mellanarma. (To wit: Mellanarma is "a fiery minx with her head wrapped all in religion" who "performs strange rites with young men," not all of them willing.)
-
Xanos nods slightly at Krag's worrisome thought and listens to Hakim's description of Mellanarma.
"Though the local populous seems to have a distrustful view of her, she may yet be negotiated with. We will find out tomorrow."
-
The common room gets unusually quiet, as a new performer makes a way through the crowded tables. The performer is dressed all in many layers of thin translucent fabric that floats on the breeze. The face of the new person is covered completely, and even the eyes look through a thin piece of cloth. Behind the new performer, follow 6 similarly dressed persons, swaying in unison as they walk.
The performers take the strange, without instruments, which seems a bit unusual until they start singing in beautiful harmonies and tones. The sound is much like a group of monks, or a large choir, in fact the volume and the amount of voices heard, sounds like there are many more people on the stage, than just the 7 of them. The first performer sings not, but rather spins and lunges around from one of the perfectly spaced out black clad performers to another pushing off of them as if they were pillars planted deep in the ground. The vocal range of the singers is breathtaking, and the sheer frenzy of the dancer is a amazing to behold. The movements appear feminine even beneath so many layers of clothing, but no sign of flesh is revealed, which is such a contrast to the very soul of the City of Wickedness. Many think the dancer, and the others are strangers, as so many others are in this city. The singing and the dancing go on for roughly an hour, with no let up in the sheer intensity of the singing or dancing.
Many marvel at the sensuality of the dancing, and perhaps the lack of flesh showing has increased the pleasure of beholding it, in a city that has taken for granted the naked form.
-
Looking around and checking the time - it seems as to have gotten very late indeed. When the performers finish Krag will give one a couple coins, and then attempt to excuse himself to retire for the night.
-
The performer refuses the coins, which seems odd, but doesn't speak a refusal. The performers leave the same way they came in, in a procession.
-
Having finished his meat and ale, Hakim will also suggest that the party members retire for the night. "As we have rented three rooms," he tells his companions, "most of us will be sharing a room tonight. I trust we can agree on suitable arrangements."
-
Krag says "I am not rooming with Bastich, he still reeks of that S & M from the TFW"
-
Xanos turns to the veiled dancers as they pass and offers his hands palm up while speaking in a strange dialect which none at the table have heard.
[In ancient Khitai] "Thank you for the grace of the Way. You honor us."
-
The dancers stop abruptly, and they all turn looking in Xanos' direction with eyes covered in thin cloth.
The dancer motions for one of the others with her hand in a strange gesture, and that singer moves towards Xanos' location.
He slowly pulls out a golden triangular coin for every member of the party and lays them on the table. On one side of the coin is an image of a very pretty woman, and on the other side a sea serpent with a massive maw and tentacles (he shows you both sides without saying a word).
He makes a motion (that does not touch the coin) of rubbing it counter-clockwise on the side of the sea-serpent, and clockwise on the side with the lady's face on it. He holds his hand over his mouth, and shakes his head, then bows, and returns to the group that begins walking out of the room again.
As to what would happen when you would rub the coin as instructed, you don't know...
-
"We have just been part of a ceremony that is older than Atlantis. We have been greatly honored. Sadly, I no longer remember the significance of the coin."
Xanos holds his coin in his hand for a time looking a bit frusterated and sad, then rolls the coin into his palm. When he opens his hand a moment later the coin is gone.
-
"Money is always good" says Brude as he stuffs his coin in his belt pouch.
-
Krag pockets a coin too, away from his other coin so it is not accidentally displayed or lost.
Then he whispers a prayer of thanks to Ishtar, whom undoubtedly assisted in the poker coins and bringing these dancers here with the odd coin also.
Fininshing his ale, Krag heads upstairs as the time must be very very late, or perhaps it is real early in the morning by now.
-
The night has indeed crept into the wee hours of the morning, and yawns start coming of their own will. Tired tears, and droopy eyes accompany the yawns.
(Assuming everyone finds their way to their rooms)
The night is fairly quiet, though some moaning from some of the rooms wakes you up at times.
The morning comes, and some sunlight creeps into the windows.
-
Xanos makes his way up to his room with the others and sits at the window looking out over the dirty streets. The odd triangular coin roles slowly over one dark finger in a lazy gesture that repeats over and over without much thought.
When morning comes, they find him still in the same place watching the city wake up. The coin has stopped moving, but it is still held between two fingers. It's hard to tell if he has moved at all.
-
Krag will rise, look for a place to bathe, at least wet a rag at a sink. Next Krag will look for a quiet place to mentally set himself with Ishtar. Then he looks for the other guys.
-
Hakim, who has long since hidden his coin away in a locked belt pouch, arises and performs his morning ablutions. Then he knocks very gently on Xanos's door. "My lord, a new day has broken, and we must soon depart this place, if we are to resume our search for the treasure you seek."
-
"Enter" Comes the voice from within.
As Hakim opens the door he is surprised at how untouched the room looks. The Aesir woman sleeps in the bed. Xanos sits at the window and does not turn as Hakim enters.
"Have the others broken their fast?"
-
The Aesir woman stirs at hearing Hakim's voice. Although Xanos probably did not notice, during the night she took off the cloak that he gave her. She clothes herself with his cloak, unashamed in the sight of Hakim. She reaches up to the ceiling in a stretch, revealing again what lies beneath, and yawns slightly.
She sits on the bed expectantly, looking at Xanos. Where most women seem a little scared by him, she seems to be more interested in what dark secrets lie far beneath the surface.
A large bell rings twice below, perhaps letting people know of breakfast?
-
"Mmm, breakfast would be good right around now." Brude is ready to head downstairs.
-
Yum, Krag want to break this fast. (Even though it was not a long fast).
-
"I will remain here. Rejoin me once you have eaten."
-
Krag takes a minute to ponder Xanos not eating, "Did I see him eat last night at all?" He wonders on his way to the table.
-
Large hunks of ham, sausage, and roasted pork are provided with fresh eggs and fried potatoes. There are lots of others coming down the stairs to eat as well. All of the tables in the common room are prepared for them. Fresh juice, and ale are available (for those that start getting drunk at dawn).
Lots of yawns, and red eyes fill the room.
-
Krag will fill 2 plates with food, find an empty table near the wall and but his back to the wall (gunslinger like)
and sit down to eat.
Krag still ponders over when he has seen Xanos eat. (do you want a roll for memories?)
-
(I don't think Xanos has eaten anything in the presence of the company, but I will let Doomed Hero clear that up).
-
(nope, nothing. All he has had is some sort of steaming drink)
-
Hakim has a moderately-sized breakfast, accompanied by a small cup of ale. (Merchants don't usually start the day with alcohol, but Hakim hasn't been a merchant for very long.) When he finishes his eggs and potatoes, he rises and says (to the other party members) "I go to wait on Lord Xanos; the rest of you can follow when you finish your repast. Eat heartily: I suspect we've a long day ahead."
-
A male short scream, followed by silence, is heard outside in the street, but no one twitches or looks in that direction. Life is cheap in Shadizar.
The food tastes excellent, and it would be more than possible for you to take more than what you eat (if you keep it from the waitresses and owner).
Anyone that wants to pilfer food Give me an Agility + any appropriate profession on a 2D6, and if you get 9 or above you get extra food, if not, you get caught.
-
The slave in me would know how to hide food and the folds of clothing. The merchant would have XP in catching thieves in pilfering. So I could claim credit from both of those professions.
However the druid's god frowns on taking things that are not mine. Finally the hunter says we can catch whatever it is we might need.
No roll, No pilfering here.
-
Brude eats a very hearty breakfast, sending the waitresses back several times until he is full.
-
(This would be a good opportunity for roleplaying, and player lead decisions, hehe).
-
(Xanos has been center stage for a while now, so he's going to sit upstairs and brood while everyone else discusses things and thinks about what to do next.)
-
"The food here is not bad. We should drink some ale and wait until lunch. Then afterwards we can look for this eyeball of the serpent." says Brude.
-
Krag Agrees, "The food and service here are very good, however, can't we go try to find Mellanarma in the synagogue, or a bit harder we can look for Sajak the merchant of rare items."
"I think Mellanarma would be easier to locate and talk to." Krag says "Let's go find some action, let Xanos upstairs to meditate. Find Mellanarma, then we can come back for lunch."
-
"Where is she supposed to be? In a temple or something?" asks Brude.
-
Synagogue, temple, sanctuary ... one of those city religious places. But maybe the slave woman can get closer than a man. She takes male jewels from what I heard.
-
(I would prefer not to split the party. It is bad in normal games, and worse in pbp games. I don't want Jasper (Doomed Hero) to be waiting around for the next month, hehe).
If you guys really want to, I can split the game with a -------- between the people going to the temple and Xanos.
-
(It was my intention to give the other guys some time to hang out without Xanos and then let him know when they were ready to leave. At least that's what I think Xanos told Hakim. Guess everyone's ready to move things along.)
-
Brude says - stay here have breakfast and lunch, Krag says go track down Mellanarma.
Everyone else appears to busy stuffing the darn pie holes to comment!! (Or they are all off on vacation and cannot access the 'net -- see ooc)
-
Everyone can level their characters (see the OOC thread on how).
-
"I am inclined to agree with Krag," says Hakim. "While Mellanarma is said to enjoy taking, er, souvenirs from men, not all rumors are true." He takes out his dagger and a whetstone, and begins sharpening the blade. "And, if this priestess be hostile, I suspect our group can defend itself, at least long enough to cover its own retreat."
-
If we do retreat, cover the royal jewels as you do!
Brude, are you up for chasing down a feisty priestess this morning? I think the other two have slept in after drinking a bit much, so we'll come back here tonight for lunch or maybe dinner, and another night.
-
(Bastich and Orean are pretty much done with the game, so I guess they just wandered off in the night, perhaps to see said mistress...).
-
Everyone sits in the common room, the music filling your ears, and the great smelling food filling your nostrils.
-
Hakim scratches his head and tries to remember, through the fog of last night's ale and dissipation, whether or not he heard where Mellanarma might be found. Failing that, he suggests that he and Krag report to Xanos, then head for the Temple District, which is the most likely place to find a priestess.
-
Brude likes that idea as he stays in the common room while he finishes his ale.
-
Everyone sits in the common room, the music filling your ears, and the great smelling food filling your nostrils.
The food is also filling Krag's stomach, once full we go to tell Xanos, and his slave woman our plans and see what they want to do.
-
(I figured the slave girl was down there with you guys. She does need to eat after all)
-
Mellanarma was supposed to be in the Temple District, correct.
The Slave Woman was most likely down with the others eating and drinking, and being quiet (since she doesn't have a tongue).
-
"Well, I am off to tell Lord Xanos of our plans," Hakim says, getting to his feet. "Wish me luck."
The merchant climbs the stairs to the upper level of the inn, and heads for Xanos's room. If the door is closed, he will knock on it; if it's open, he will say, quietly, "Lord Xanos, several of us have decided to head for the Temple District, and attempt to locate the priestess Mellanarma. We hope this decision meets with your approval."
-
Krag will finish his plate and admire the good looking woman :o
at the table with him, wearing nothing but a robe. :o
-
The tall Aesir woman nods and smiles at Krag's obvious looks, and even at his looks that he thinks are well disguised as looks at other things. She eats her food, and awaits to see her Lord that is residing upstairs. Every once and awhile her robe slips, but she catches it before too much is revealed, and really compared to how all the other women are dressed in this city, it wouldn't cause a scene...
-
The door was left slightly ajar when Hakim and the Slave Girl left earlier.
As Hakim enters he sees Xanos in nearly the same position he left him in at the window, but instead of looking out the window he is looking at his own hand. It is surrounded in a nimbus of pulsing white light, and also with a deep shadowy swirling darkness. Both energies seem to be emerging from his palm and swirling about each other, dissipating the further from his hand they get. Like oil and water, they seem unable to mix, but each moves with the intention of filling voids left by the other.
Xanos looks up as Hakim enters, he seems startled and hostile for a moment, but nearly immediately regains his composure. He pulls on his usual thick glove, dousing the swirling energies of his hand, and stands, nodding his approval. He seems neither upset that Hakim saw this obviously private thing, nor apologetic for the circumstance.
"I will accompany you."
-
Krag tired of getting caught by the Aesir woman, scans the room to see what else is going on, and perhaps to enjoy views of women that are not so modest.
Krag is Thinking - for Ishtar's breast! The lady stood on stage in front of a crowd and now I can't even see some cleavage nor nips.
He also wonders what she is smiling about - is she playing with me? But then there is Xanos, though he appears to regard her more as a human than the property she was when he bought her last night. Hmmmmm.....
-
The Aesir woman giggles again, and smiles as she finishes her food.
There is almost ALWAYS a female form to observe in this scantily clad city. Many women wear clothes that leave nothing to the imagination, as that is the fashion. See through garments, strings covered in coins that are loosely connected, strips of soft fabric that barely cover anything, these are the fashions of Shadizar.
-
Hakim nervously cracks his knuckles. "Very well, my lord," he says in a low voice, and then backs out of the room, allowing Xanos to follow in his own good time.
Once the PCs have re-congregated in the common room, Hakim will suggest that we begin our search for Mellanarma at the Temple of Erlik, who is the God of Knowledge and Prophecy (and Death, but he says that in a whisper). "The servants of the Omniscient One may have some insight into the priestess's current whereabouts," says the merchant.
-
"On our way we will need to acquire clothing and a suitable blade for our new companion. I leave that to your discretion, Master Merchant. Lead us on."
-
Hakim thinks for a moment, consulting the mental inventory he keeps of his small supply of trade goods. If he has any suitable clothing or edged weapons in stock, he will politely suggest that he would be honored to offer these items to Lord Xanos at cost (that is, the same price he paid for them).* If not, he will advise Xanos and the other PCs that a visit to the merchants' district is in order, and lead the party to the marketplace or shops with the most reasonable prices.
* Something tells Hakim that Xanos isn't the sort of person with whom one haggles.
-
Brude will follow, making certain the crowd keeps their distance from Xanos.
-
Krag will walk with Brude,
Marching Order with Hakim leading to the left
Xenos Brude
Hakim
Aesir Krag
-
* Something tells Hakim that Xanos isn't the sort of person with whom one haggles.
(That would certainly be an interesting scene...)
-
The party leaves for some destination in the Merchant District. They also think that they could work perhaps to make some extra coin. Man wares are for trade and sell along the way. Many of the items are worthless lies wrapped in nice packaging.
You are all welcome to purchase small things (since we aren't keeping track of coins). You can all probably purchase some form of armor if you want it along the way fairly cheap (as dead men sell their armor cheaply to those that get them next...).
It is not hard at all with all of the wares for sell to purchase and trade what you need. The master merchant speaks his way and works prices as he knows how to do.
It takes several hours to find the best prices, but then you all have some new shiny things to look at.
-
Xanos hands over coin to Hakim after the Aesir woman has found suitable attire once the group reaches his storefront. By the time they are finished shopping, the Aesir woman is dressed in a well fitting linen tunic and leather boots, pants, and vest. With a double-wrapped sword belt and a new blade hand-picked by her (and critiqued and approved by Brude), she looks far more suited to travel with the company she now keeps than she did previously.
Xanos shrugs back into his robe, belts his sword over it and pulls the hood up with a slight look of satisfaction.
"Much better." He says as the woman displays her new outfit. "Now you are Aesir."
-
The woman smiles, and seems as if Xanos has given her a great gift. It seems as if she has been given back her pride. She moves close to Xanos, but has learned that he prefers not to be touched. She bows her head in a somber way, and returns to her place in the group.
-
Hakim haggles as effectively as he can for the goods that Xanos (and the other party members) wish(es) to purchase. He also spends a little of his own money on a minor sacrifice for the god Erlik: a libation of wine, some incense, and a small wire cage containing three white mice. "These will help propitiate both the Omniscient One and his earthly servants, when we visit his temple later today."
Once the party has finished making its purchases, Hakim will lead the way to the Temple of Erlik in the Temple District.
-
Some of you know that Erlik is the God of Death, Knowledge, and Prophecy. It is said he is Male and is also called the Yellow Hand of Death. Needless to say, some of you are a little nervous about entering the temple of such a God, but Hakim seems confident.
Anyone's character (except Hakim) that gets a total of 10 on the roll will know the following material on the link about Erlik.
http://hyboria.xoth.net/gods/erlik.htm
Brude can give me 2D6 + Mind + Magician
Krag can give me 2D6 + Mind + Druid
Xanos can give me 2D6 + Mind + Noble
Hakim knows the information on the link if he can roll a total of 8 on the roll. Hakim can give me 2D6 + Mind + Pirate
------------------
On the way out of the Merchant District, and close to entering the Temple District, a band of street thugs crosses the path that you need to go. You also notice that some of them have worked their way behind you, and also stand there. You see four of them in front of you, and four of them behind you. They block traffic and direct the would be walkers in the street with punches in the face, and revealing their blades.
Without saying a word, they all draw two handed scimitars, many of which are stained with dried blood.
Initiative Rolls
Hakim 12 + 2 = 14
Krag 7 + 2 = 9 (Krag goes first as he has a higher Agility)
Xanos 9 + 0 = 9
Street Thugs = 8
Brude 4 + 1 = 5
Hakim is first.
(If you need a refresher course on combat or spells, looks at the rules or ask me in the OOC thread).
Everyone's base movement for a round is 20' + 5 feet for every rank you have in Agility. Each square is 5 feet.
Example: I have a movement of 25' per round because I have 1 rank in Agility.
-
Krag will use his Druid skills to cause vines to grow and entangle the feet (and legs if possible) of the Thugs behind the party. (Druid 2 + Mind 2 + close range 0 + DM roll - as we do not roll combat right)
Krag rolled at 8 +4 for knowledge of Erlik
(Note the Aesir is not on the map - did she go invisible or disappear or something?)
-
Hakim rolls 4 + 4 = 8 on his practical theology test, so he knows the standard information about Erlik.
***
Hakim realizes that the thugs blocking the party's path probably aren't going to respond to diplomacy, and that no ransom short of "Our money AND our lives" is going to buy them off. He also decides that there's no chance to flee and no time to ready his bow. Which leaves one option (other than cowering in fear):
Move: E4 to E3 to F2
Attack Thug #4 with his scimitar - I assume this is Strength (1) + Melee (1) + DM's roll. Damage, if Hakim hits, is d6+1.
Hakim will also use his Feint ability (derived from his Pirate 2 rating) on Thug #4, which will cut the thug's Defense in half next round.
-
Hakim's Turn
Hakim wades into battle, swinging his sword defiantly against those that would take his life and property. His swift movement, and decisive action, scares the thugs that probably don't have much resistance normally. His swift accurate swing and powerful slice is breathtaking to behold.
12 + 1 + 1 = 14! Critical Success!
Hakim's blade not only severs the first thug into two gory halves at the waist, but his powerful upswinging follow through takes the head off of the thug standing beside him. Crimson sprays the walls and the ground all around him, and the screaming bloody bodies cover the cobble stones at Hakim's feet in a liquid red victory.
Thug 3 & 4 are dead or are dying quickly praying to whatever gods they hold dear before the world fades to black.
Krag's Turn
Krag calls on the forces of nature and his Goddess Ishtar to summon powerful gripping plants to grow at his behest. This is a Formidable request (since you will try to entangle all four of them, Difficulty is set by the GM for Priest spells).
This miracle is one of two that he can attempt before needing to visit a temple to his deity.
Druid 2 + Mind 2 + 11 -2 Difficulty = 13, success!
Black and green vines with sharp barbs sprout from the ground, and move the cobble stones out of their way. The quickly growing plant forms do just what they were asked to to, gripping strongly the 4 terrified Street Thugs, that have not seen such a display of divine anger ever in their lives. Many of them look to the temple district and scream. They are held firmly in place, but their arms still wield their swords, and they look like they will start hacking on the vines soon.
They all appear to have taken some damage as well from the sharp thorns and barbs. They each take 3 damage.
Initiative
Hakim 14
Krag 9+
Xanos 9
Street Thugs 8
Aesir 7
Brude 5
Damage
Thug 3&4 are dead or dying
Thug 5,6,7,8 have taken 3 damage.
(http://www.geocities.com/samwize7/StreetThugsAlley.jpg)
Xanos is next.
-
Xanos fury at the arrogance of the rabble attacking his group causes an instinctual reaction. Before he remembers his weakened state he reaches out a in a slow grasping motion towards the thug who seems to be leading the group of street trash and attempts to grip him in a magical crush which, if it works, will begin to squeeze him like a serpent, holding him immobile and choking the air from his lungs.
2d6+mind+magician? right?
-
Xanos' turn
4 + 4mind + 2magician -1Hard = 9 Success!
1st Magnitude Spell.
Xanos uses Line of Sight, and Obvious Technique for his two casting options.
He reaches out his hand, slowly bringing his straining fingers together in a choke-hold, and chants words of power that are ancient and dark in meaning. The Street Thug #2 seems held.
He takes 2 damage, as he seems in the clutches of an invisible crushing snake.
Street Thugs' turn
Thug #1 charges into Krag, swinging his sword high in the air, but Krag sidesteps the swing with ease.
Thug #2 struggles to free himself from the grip of the invisible snake, his attempt fails and he takes another 3 damage.
Thug #6, and #8 break free from the vines, But Thugs #5 & #7 are still stuck.
Aesir's Turn
The Aesir woman moves to attack Thug #1. Her swing misses however, as he ducks the swing that would have taken his head off.
Initiative
Hakim 14
Krag 9+
Xanos 9
Street Thugs 8
Aesir 7
Brude 5
Damage
Thug 2 has taken 5 damage, wrestling with an invisible snake.
xxThug 3&4 are deadxx
Thug 5, 7 have taken 3 damage and are stuck.
Thugs 6 & 8 have taken 3 damage are are free.
(http://www.geocities.com/samwize7/StreetThugsAlley2.jpg)
Brude is next.
-
Hakim sweeps his scimitar downward, to shake the excess blood from it, and waits to see what Brude will do.
-
Krag admires his own defensive maneuver; he then thinks about protecting the Aesir, but waits for Brude to move.
-
His eyes burn with inner fire, much brighter than they did when they flared in the brothel the night before. The choking, helpless thug struggles weakly, suspended off the ground and clutching his neck.
Xanos stands ominously in a pose that seems familiar and yet as if it might come from a galaxy far, far away ;)
-
Brude will let out a Pictish war cry as he steps to D6 and swings mightily at the thug in D7.
-
Brude's Turn
Brude utters words in his native language that sounds like a series of clicks, grunts, and animal noises.
4 + 2 + 11 = 17!
4 + 5 = 9
It is a brutal hit that splits the Thug wide open at his stomach to his chest. His vital organs and intestines spill out in front of him, making him slip around on his own blood and gore. He falls screaming his final words that are drowned out in his own bubbling blood spilling from his mouth.
Initiative
Hakim 14
Krag 9+
Xanos 9
Street Thugs 8
Aesir 7
Brude 5
Damage
Thug 2 has taken 5 damage, wrestling with an invisible snake.
xxThug 3,4, and 6 are deadxx
Thug 5, 7 have taken 3 damage and are stuck.
Thug 8 has taken 3 damage are is free.
(http://www.geocities.com/samwize7/StreetThugsAlley3.jpg)
Hakim is next.
-
Krag will grab his mace and try to take out a leg of Thug #1 in C3
-
Hakim steps to E1, stands astride the decapitated body of Thug #3, and attacks Thug #2 with his scimitar. He also uses his Feint ability, which should cut Thug #2's Defense roll in half next round, if he (and Hakim) are still alive then.
-
Hakim's Turn
Hakim stands on top of the butchered remains of one of the Thugs and swings at Thug 2 that is wrestling with some unseen thing.
5 + 1 + 1 = 7 Miss.
Krag's Turn
Krag swings his mace at Thug 1.
4 + 0 + 1 = 5 Miss.
Initiative
Hakim 14
Krag 9+
Xanos 9
Street Thugs 8
Aesir 7
Brude 5
Damage
Thug 2 has taken 5 damage, wrestling with an invisible snake.
xxThug 3,4, and 6 are deadxx
Thug 5, 7 have taken 3 damage and are stuck.
Thug 8 has taken 3 damage are is free.
(http://www.geocities.com/samwize7/StreetThugsAlley3.jpg)
Xanos is next.
-
Xanos continues to His eyes burn brighter and The pale markings tattooed into his skin have begun to glow slightly with a reddish cast.
For the first time, Xanos speaks above a whisper. His tone is still not loud, but it's authority still seems to cut through the noise and chaos of the battle. His voice seems to have developed a second layer, like two voices speaking at once. The second voice sounds like a cross between a bonfire and a snarling beast.
"I want that one alive, Hakim."
He continues his crushing, invisible grip but turns to face the entangled thugs, towering over Brude's crouching, blood splattered form.
"Lay down your weapons or I will make your suffering a thing of legend."
-
Xanos' call to the Thugs to give up.
8 + 0 (appeal) + 2 (Noble) = 10
Thugs' turn
Thug 1 lowers his blade, raises his other hand, and then drops the weapon at the Aesir Woman's feet.
"Mercy... Mercy..."
Thug 2 manages to break free from the spell cast on him by Xanos. He drops his sword, and then turns and runs down the Alley by A1 & B1.
Thug 5 also manages to break free from the vines, and turns tail and runs for his life. His weapon clatters on the cobble stones in his wake. He runs down the Alley by A7 & B7.
Thug 7 tries to break free from his green captors, but fails and is stuck in place. He drops his weapon and doesn't resist the vegetation any longer.
Thug 8 turns his back on the conflict and runs down the Alley by G7 & H7. His weapon clatters to the ground as well. You can also hear some hurried prayers to various deities as his voice fades into the distance.
Aesir Woman
The tall blond leans on her sword and smiles. She laughs heartily and wipes some sweat off of her forehead.
Initiative
Hakim 14
Krag 9+
Xanos 9
Street Thugs 8
Aesir 7
Brude 5
Damage
Thug 1, has surrendered to the Aesir
Thug 2 has taken 5 damage, ran away
Thug 5 has taken 3 damage, ran away
Thug 7 have taken 3 damage and is stuck
Thug 8 has taken 3 damage, ran away
xxThug 3,4, and 6 are deadxx
We are most likely out of combat at this point, depending on what people do.
-
Brude tentatively licks at the blood on his sword and spits it out.
"Bah, I can taste the cowardice that flows in their veins. Mangy was the dog that fathered this scum."
Brude will ask Xanos "You only want to talk to one of them?" as he eyes the thug trapped in the vines.
-
Xanos stares in mild disbelief at the thug who broke free from his spell, and down at his own hand in anger and disgust. To the crowd he says
"I will pay handsomely for the names and locations of the three assailants who sought to escape their fates by running. I will pay more for their heads delivered to my feet. If you wish to collect, make your way to the Sign of the Ice Worm."
He turns to the rest of the party.
"Collect their weapons and any valuables or identifying marks off of the corpses and bring the living with us. Bind them. Leave the bodies."
Xanos begins walking away from the scene of the battle, the crowd parting before him.
-
Brude walks up to Thug 7 and whacks him over the head to knock him out. Brude then ties him up with some of the vines and throws him over his shoulder.
He well then follow Xanos, looking to see where the crowd parted to let him through.
-
The Aesir woman follows Brude's example, and knocks out her captive. She slings him over her shoulder, and with some effort, follows the party in Xanos' wake.
The crowd does part, and many eyes are averted from you all.
You continue on your way, with little to no further interruptions.
-
Hakim takes a large handkerchief from his belt pouch, mops his brow with a corner of it, and then uses the rest of the cloth to wipe his scimitar clean. He makes a mental note to sharpen and oil the scimitar blade later in the day. Then he makes a short bow, and says, to Xanos, "Onward, then, my lord."
Hakim then resumes leading the party to the Temple of Erlik, pausing briefly to spit on the corpses of the two thugs he killed.
-
The group continues with their 2 captive thugs in tow. With many of the party still covered in splattered blood, you can feel eyes upon you at times, but no one approaches, or attempts to attack you. It seems they must still want to keep their blood in their bodies, than covering your blades.
One thing that is automatically noticeable when you enter the Temple district, is that there are less people here. There are no poor people at all, and there is a heavier Guard presence, as well as the fact that many of the temples have their own guards that are pledged to becoming a martyr for their god or gods of choice.
It isn't hard for Hakim to find the Temple of Erlik the god of death, knowledge, and prophecy. The outside of the temple is painted black with sparkling flecks of gold throughout. It is a strange mix of dark and light. There are various images carved into the tall pillars and into the stone walls. There is a large outstretched hand tinted yellow, as well as many one-armed cloaked figures with a dark shadowy face hidden beneath the stone carving of the hood. It is a foreboding place, and those not familiar with the god may wince at what might happen within. But as the followers know, Erlik has the knowledge that comes with the power of death, and his prophecies are sometimes blessings mixed with tragedy.
The large doorway is guarded by 4 guards that change location every 5 minutes or so. Each of the guards is missing one of their eyes, and all are ritually scarred on their foreheads with the symbol of the hand of Erlik.
-
"Xanos, should we step into an alley to find out what these scum know? It may be a bit awkward carrying them into a temple. Unless you think they would make good donations?"
-
Backup to the surrendering / escaping Thugs:
Krag loots the bodies of the dead thugs and looks for interesting tattoos or marks (slave, druid knowledge). Then Krag scrapes up the dropped weapons too.
-
Xanos looks at the temple, then at the hapless thugs. He weighs things in his mind, then nods and walks into an ally next to the temple.
"Brude, rouse them. Krag, what did you find?"
As he speaks he removes a fist sized vial from beneath his robe and begins pouring pale sand in a circle on the ground.
-
Brude throws the thug he is carrying against the wall. Brude then lifts him up again and pushes him hard into the wall.
"My Lord will have a word with you. He had better like what he hears, for I am getting tired of carrying your worthless hide around."
-
Hakim stands watch outside the alley while Krag and Brude interrogate the thugs. He glances from time to time at the guards outside the Temple of Erlik, and tries to determine whether or not they are Turanian, which may make it easier for him to talk to them once we proceed to the temple.
-
Each of the thugs had a Sword, and they each had a battle harness and boots for armor. They had some money (but since we aren't keeping track of it don't worry about it). They had not tattoos or markings, other than scars from fighting. They have several days of food each and random other sundry small items such as lock picks, waterskins, and some jewelry in the form of rings and necklaces (you think stolen).
The Aesir's Thug is thrown in the same place as the other one, and both are revived when the Aesir woman throws water on their faces.
They rub their heads and look to find enemies in their sight. They look scared, and rather angry at the same time. Neither one of them talks right away.
The Guards at the temple door do seem to be Turanian.
-
Xanos pours a second circle then the small bottle of sand disappears beneath the folds of his robe. He looks at the two wet and scowling thugs. His hands are folded and non-threatening but his eyes still carry a faint gleam of strange otherworldly fire. He waits for a few long moments just watching them take in the weight of their situation.
.
.
.
Then he speaks.
"One way or another, the both of you are going to help me find the knowledge I seek. You have only this one chance to decide weather or not to obey. Cooperate with me and you may even be rewarded."
As he addresses them, Xanos removes one of his gloves. The twisting shadow and light Hakim saw earlier is still boiling off of it. The energies swirl along a strange tattoo in the center of his palm shaped like a broken-looking spiral. He cuts his hand with a curved knife pulled from his belt and walks around the circles letting the blood run off his fingers and drip to the sand. The blood takes with it small remnants of the shadow and light which seem to be absorbed into the sand along with the blood.
"You have only this one chance. Step into the circles"
-
Xanos' spellcasting roll 10 + 4 mind + 2 magician = 18 success.
Both of the thugs look at each other with a nervous stare. They silently step into the circle, albeit reluctantly.
-
As the thugs step into the circle Xanos pulls his glove back on and finishes a small incantation. He looks back at the frightened men.
"The tingling you are feeling will soon grow into a slight pressure, like a small headache between your eyes. At the moment it should not be more than a slight annoyance, but should you attempt to deceive me or withhold information, the pressure will grow. The only way to rid yourself of this pain is to believe in your own mind that you have no further information I may find useful. I will continue asking questions until I am satisfied, but the glory of this particular divination is that it is quite effective at encouraging those you are interrogating to volunteer information. Should you think of something that may be of interest to me, but choose not to speak, the pressure will rise, and quickly become unbearable. Should you step out of the circle, the pressure will not leave you, and I will let you live, maddened by the pain until suicide becomes your only option."
Xanos waits a moment and lets his words sink in.
"Now, most people when invoking this incantation, would ask a question, expecting specific results. Myself, I like to be more open minded. So, then: Can either of you think of any information that I might be interested to know?"
-
"Princess Taramis is also a sorcerer, and is lovely to behold. Jarvaneus is the Chief Steward assigned to watching the princess. King Tiridates is a drunkard and one day should be replaced. Several factions are working towards achieving that goal, one being some of the priests of Mishra, another being the Princess Taramis, and a third faction being the Thieve's Guild. There are a pack of raving hyenas outside of the city that have been killing more than their normal amount of people. Amon-Rama is a powerful sorcerer that is known to be traveling in the city. It is said he has a necklace of children's hands. There is a new deity gaining strength in Shadizar, and it is said his name is Dagoth, the sleeping God. We are only a gang that robs and kills, we do not excel in anything else really. Sometimes we use the Dust children to aid us, but sometimes they refuse. I know not what else you would find interesting... my Lord."
-
"What made you decide to attack me?"
-
Thug
"You looked like you had some valuables to steal, that's it, and nothing more. It seems we attacked the wrong group..."
-
"Simple happenstance then. Odd, but fortuitous. You may leave the circles now."
Xanos watches the step out, and pours a solution on the sand which smells of vinegar. He then smears the circles with his shoe.
"What I did not tell you is that the charm I placed on you does not end with simply stepping out of the circle. It is also a protection charm. Should you speak of me, or what has happened this day to anyone, or attempt to interfere with my interests, your location and intentions will be made known to me. Cross me a second time and I will make devils cringe at your suffering."
Xanos begins to turn away, then stops.
"If you seek coin, and still have your wits about you, I may have an offer for you..."
-
One of the thugs makes a protection sign with his hand (more superstition than anything) at hearing Xanos' words.
The other looks at Xanos.
"If the money is right, and I like the job, I'll do what you ask. But if I'm dead, money isn't worth anything."
-
Xanos curls his fingers into a fist and then unfurls them. As he does so a small fingernail sized ruby dances across his knuckles and comes to rest in the center of his palm.
"This represents more money than you could steal in one year's time."
His other hand repeats the gesture of the first, only instead of a ruby, a shiny black stone rests in his palm.
"This is a lodestone. It is a symbol of burden and responsibility."
Both his hands close and slowly cross together and then apart again.
"You may either walk away, or choose a hand. Chose the ruby and it is yours to keep. Choose the lodestone and you enter into a contract with me for one year's loyal service. Choose."
-
The scared Thug shakes his head, and starts to walk away slowly. The other one looks a little confused.
"So if I take the Ruby, I do some job for you, and then I'm free to go?"
"I'm torn between walking away, and taking the ruby."
-
"No. If you pick the hand with the ruby, it's yours to keep and you're free to go. No catch. If you choose wrong, you are mine for one year."
Xanos holds both fists out before him, smiling slightly.
-
"If you choose wrong, you are mine for one year."
This statement plus the smile of Xanos is too much for the Thug, and he looks back to his associate who is walking away slowly.
"Sorry my Lord, you can keep the Ruby. I fear for my life..."
He starts backing away like the other Thug.
-
Krag asks Xanos, "So which hand was the ruby in?"
-
Xanos watches the thugs leave and answers Krag without looking at him.
"There was no ruby. The true test was to see if they had learned not to gamble what they cannot afford to lose. They have both passed, and with luck, they will reflect on their fortune later. The next time we see them they will be wiser, and more prosperous. Had they failed, they would have proven that they have no real use for their lives. Better for another to direct such men."
Xanos then turns to face Krag.
"Your trick with the plants earlier was most effective. May I ask where you learned your magics?"
-
While I was hunting, I came across a group of people in a specific grove. They taught me to worship Ishtar, and in return she grants certain prayers.
-
It might be wise for Krag to stop into an Ishtar temple, as he only has one more Prayer attempt before he has to visit a temple and make his sacrifices and offerings to his goddess.
-
"A disciple of the green lady, then? She is known to grant her favors only to those who please her greatly. Rarer still for such a person to be a man. I hope you will find me worthy of the service you honor me with."
-
It is an honor for us all to be working together, so far. Aren't we here to seek out a priestess and a glass eye that you are searching for?
-
Xanos chuckles.
"Yes. A glass eye..."
With that he begins to walk out of the ally and around the corner toward the temple.
-
Hakim makes a slight bow as Xanos leaves the alley. Then he guides the party to the front gates of the Temple of Erlik.
To the guards, he says, in Turanian, "Most worthy minions of Our Lord, the Seeker in Darkness, the Merciless and All-Knowing One, greeting. I am a fellow servant who seeks to pay his respects to Merciless and All-Knowing Erlik*" - Hakim holds up his sacrificial cage of white mice - "and to ask the favor of enlightenment, on a subject of interest to my patron" - he gestures to Xanos -"from one of His priesthood." He makes one of the lesser secret signs of the god, so that the guards know he is a true follower of Erlik.
*It may be that followers of Erlik don't mention his name in public, in which case Hakim just says "the Merciless and All-Knowing One" again.
-
The guards reply in Turanian to Hakim, "We fear our Lord, and through that fear of Him we are shown his secret knowledge. May he one day reclaim us all to Him. Please enter. Follow the dark hallway to its end."
The doorway is opened. Not far beyond the doorway it seems there is an unnatural darkness that is utterly pitch black. The walls are covered in many black fabrics of various textures. Once inside the large doors are closed, leaving the party in utter blackness.
You are alone, with your thoughts in the darkness and only the way forward to go.
-
Krag will keep his eyes and ears open for an Ishtar temple, preferably in a secluded grove out of doors.
But while inside the temple he prays silently to Ishtar that his presence here may not disturb her. Indeed this should help me find the sacred "Goblet of Ishtar's feast".
-
Xanos walks through the archway with a gesture of respect and moves to stand prominently in the center of the temple, waiting to be approached.
-
Krag hasn't seen any temples to Ishtar yet. And while he is in the temple of Erlik, he won't see any either. ;)
At the end of the absolutely dark hallway, a very heavy and thick curtain is bumped into. Does anyone continue on through it, or do you wait?
-
*Realizes he misread the description*
Xanos moves through the curtain, still intent on moving somewhere that he will be noticed and approached.
-
Krag hasn't seen any temples to Ishtar yet. And while he is in the temple of Erlik, he won't see any either. ;)
Krag will just keep his eyes and ears open for any talk or sign of a temple. Donot expect to find one temple inside another
Since Krag is probably near the back of the line, he will wait for those in front to move forward. Hakim is probably in the lead since he talked with the guards in that strange tongue.
About how long is the hallway
-
Hakim, who may have been in one of Erlik's temples before, tries to remember whether he's heard anything about curtains and corridors. He suspects that the curtain separates the party from the god's inner sanctum, but doesn't want to pull it aside if it would be inappropriate to do so.
-
The hallway is 40 feet long.
Hakim knows that every temple in some faiths is slightly different, and in some places beliefs vary on the deity that is worshiped as well. This temple of Erlik seems like it is different than other temples Hakim as been to before, but it isn't altogether different, just slightly strange. Hakim does think that the walking in darkness probably has some symbolic meaning, most likely that the uninitiated are living in darkness, and that when given secret knowledge, they can see the light of wisdom.
Xanos leads the way by trying to find a way through the curtain. It frustrates him that he can't find a part in it to go through. He also notices that there are grooves dug deep in the floor so that these very long curtains go beneath the floor as well. After some moving of the curtains a deep voice, sounding like it emanating from a large chest speaks.
"Patience my lost children. We will be with you shortly."
-
Brude will listen carefully and have a hand on his sword, just in case.
-
Hakim since you have a short memory maybe you should translate next time you speak in toungues.
The guards reply in Turanian to Hakim, "We fear our Lord, and through that fear of Him we are shown his secret knowledge. May he one day reclaim us all to Him. Please enter. Follow the dark hallway to its end."
[/b][/i][/u][/size]
-
It sounds like some gears, or perhaps a wheel starts to turn in the wall. The curtain starts to lift up out of the ground. It takes about a minute and then light envelopes your feet, then your knees, all the way up, until finally you are bathed in painful light. The light seems very bright, though your eyes adjust eventually. In front of you a room is laid out that is completely covered in mirrors.
In the center is a massive statue of a yellow hand. The hand is holding a large fire that seems to be very hot and very bright. Some of the smarter party members might think they added something to the fire to make it burn that way. The light is reflected and seems to be enhanced in brightness so that all of the mirrors are facing your direction.
There are 4 large figures in the room dressed in heavy black robes. They seem like they are very hot, as several of them have some sweat stains showing through.
One of them comes close to you all, and bows his head slowly. It is the same voice that told you to be patient.
"Greetings in the name of Erlik, the god of death. What is your need? Why are you here?"
-
"Greetings Servant of Erlik, I seek one called Mellanarma. It is my hope that the Lord of Secrets will bless us with the knowledge of her whereabouts."
-
"Your indulgence, my lord," Hakim says to Xanos, sotto voce. He turns to the priest of Erlik. "Most worthy servant of Our Lord, the Merciless and All-Knowing One, greeting. As my patron was saying, we come in search of knowledge, specifically knowledge of a priestess named Mellanarma, and hope that the Lord of Secrets can shed some light on her whereabouts. Moreover, as a humble follower of Lord Erlik, I bring an equally humble, but I hope welcome, offering for him." Hakim bows and gives the priest the cage of white mice, which can be sacrificed - or (more likely) fed to the temple's resident cats.
(Incidentally, are any of these priests missing eyes?)
-
None of these priests are missing eyes.
The speaking priest smiles at Hakim's offering.
"We receive these with thanks. I know a few that will deem them worth their price in gold."
Looking at Hakim, he speaks again.
"It is good that one among you follows the secret ways of our dread lord. Mellanarma you say? Yes, I have heard of her. Her name is soiled and tainted with a mark of vile corruption. I will consult some of the elevated priests and have them learn of her whereabouts. While you are waiting, please accompany me to my personal quarters. Your friends may come with you, as long as you vouch for their behavior."
The priest turns and leads the lot of you down another dark hallway that curves both vertically and horizontally. It it a strange hallway, built with skill. He speaks as he walks, helping you follow the sound of his voice.
"Darkness is a way to reflect on that which is within. It is also the best medium to listen to that which is without."
He turns right and touches the wall. It opens and inside is a utilitarian room that is more like a prison cell than a place of comfort. It isn't much, but it seems he has several casks of wine, and a large plate of fruits and vegetables.
"Please partake of all that I have. I will return when I have your answer."
The speaking priest leaves, going the opposite direction from where you came. You get the feeling that you are now under the street level of the city.
It is now that you notice another priest that followed you at a distance, and now leans against the wall out in the hallway.
-
Hakim draws himself a cup of wine, tastes it to see if it has any unwanted "additives," and then (if it seems safe) offers additional cups to his companions.
-
Xanos holds up a hand, declining the offer of food. He seems content to sit and wait for the priest.
-
Krag is still full from his large breakfast, not in the mood for drink this early. Still kind of hoping to get back to the inn for lunch or at least dinner.
-
Xanos looks openly at the second priest at the back of the room, trying to decipher his purpose, but says nothing.
-
Brude will be at Xanos's back, watching/listening for trouble.
-
The priest returns. He returns without saying a word and hands Hakim a folded parchment.
"We thank you for your offering. That which you seek is inside, but wait till you are outside of this temple before opening it up. That's part of the way it works... Brother Hakim, we would be honored if you returned to us alone sometime. We are always looking for new priests."
With that he backs up into the hallway.
"I have things to do. My fellow priest will lead you back to another exit. He doesn't speak."
The mute priest motions for you to follow him, and starts walking out of the temple.
-
Krag follow silent priest.
-
Hakim thanks the priest for the parchment, and bows politely when he suggests that Hakim might consider a career in the priesthood. Then he, too, follows the mute priest out of the temple.
Once the party is back on the street, Hakim says, to Xanos, "With, again, your indulgence, my lord, I would be honored to open and read this missive" - he holds up the parchment. "We will bear in mind, of course, the priest's remark about this scroll 'working' in a strange way..."
-
Xanos nods his consent.
-
Brude will scowl at the crowd outside, making sure no one is too close to overhear when Hakim reads the note.
-
The note is written in red inked Turanian. As Hakim opens it up, he is at first confounded as the words are all jumbled up, not making any sense, but then right before his eyes, the words move on the page like snakes writhing over one another to get to their appointed places. The parchment gets slightly warm during this but not uncomfortably so.
"Mellenarma the seductress
Is a selfish destructive woman
Her lair's entrance
Is behind the Temple of Dagoth
The sleeping god
Wear caution when visiting
For many do not return"
-
"The parchment is magical," reports Hakim, "but the message is clear, at least to these humble eyes." He looks around to make sure no-one is watching the party too closely, then translates the missive.
"I am no prognosticator," says Hakim, "but it seems that a visit to the Temple of Dagoth may lie in our future."
-
Xanos' brows furrow as he listens to Hakim.
"...wear caution" he repeats slowly. "Strange wording."
-
wear protection - I understand, not caution.
Is there some kind medicine a man can take to keep from being affected by a seductress magic?
-
"There are a number of alchemical concoctions and protective rituals that would suffice. An glade or temple of the Green Lady would be an ideal location for such things. Know you of one nearby, Krag?"
-
Krag is on a Druid's quest, to locate and obtain a rare goblet. It's last known location was in Shadizar.
Maybe on my way here, Krag met with Xanos and Brude in Corinthia?
I am not from Shadizar, however, I can look into finding a temple of the all-loving Earth Mother.
Krag moves his ram's head to a more visible spot.
-
Xanos nods and turns to Hakim.
"I will need two love-birds, powdered ram's horn, and the milk of the Poppy."
-
Hakim furrows his brow. "The love-birds may be purchased from nearly any purveyor of domestic animals," he says, "and poppies' milk from one of several apothecaries. Powdered ram's horn is less common than you might think, but I know of at least one alchemist who might sell it. Krag and I can make the purchases in the Merchant's District, and meet you at a later time, or we can all travel together."
-
"Maybe we just need to be careful of getting too close to Mellenarma. Who knows how many Shadizar scum she has slept with? I bet she is as clean as the streets of this fine city!" says Brude.
-
"I would prefer that Krag use the time to seek a place of worship. Brude and I will bide our time at the square just outside the Temple District."
-
Xanos nods and turns to Hakim.
"I will need two love-birds, powdered ram's horn, and the milk of the Poppy."
Krag agrees and says "I will find a temple of Ishtar and purchased these items and assist in their blessing as well. I would appreciate at least one other person to accompany me, just tis safer"
-
"Safety is a concern, true. Go with Hakim. Return to Brude and I once you have found your temple and the objects in question. We will then return to the temple as a group and you and I will craft a ritual to guard ourselves against Melanarma's charms. "
-
So Hakim is going to the Merchant District, Brude and Xanos are going to hang out in the Temple District, and Krag is going to perform some prayers and sacrifices to his God to restore the divine energy within him. Correct?
-
Sounds about right to me.
-
I thought Hakim and I were going to search out a temple of Ishtar to purchase the items, bless them, renew my divine energy and meet up with Brude and Xanos.
Perhaps the items are already blessed in the temple if they keep them there/
-
Not quite. The ritual Xanos wants to perform will be strengthened by performing it at the temple. He's basically using Krag as his "foot in the door". He's got a soft spot for the church of Ishtar. Why will probably come up soon.
So once the items are procured and the temple found, the party needs to regroup.
-
Perhaps Krag and Hakim should first go to the Merchants' District, and procure the powdered ram's horn, poppies' milk, and lovebirds that Xanos requires. This shouldn't take more than a few hours. Then we can go in search of a Temple of Ishtar in the Temple District. After that, we can meet up with Brude and Xanos, presumably back at the Temple of Erlik.
-
Sounds good. Take it away, boss.
-
If Krag and Brude locate Ishtar's temple, while Xanos and Hakim go shopping we can regroup and be faster.
This would be more excaliber then Krag going to the merchant district and then going to find the temple
(OOC Beware though Tim hates it when we split the group)
-
(OOC Beware though Tim hates it when we split the group)
It's a pain, but I know sometimes it is the best way to do things. It's okay.
-
"Xanos gave you your orders, off with you!" says Brude.
-
Krag shoots back,
"Orders? I thought this was a team, not one leader and three slaves." "What are you and Xanos going to do while we are trampling through the merchant district? If we are not all going to be accomplishing something why not just stay together? Besides, what was wrong with my suggestion?"
-
"I am sure Xanos has some reason for remaining here. You can ask him to explain if that will make you happy."
-
Xanos don't you think we could get more done faster, if we peared off and met up in a couple of hours?
If Krag and Brude locate Ishtar's temple, while Xanos and Hakim go shopping we can regroup and be faster.
-
"I believe it would be best," Hakim says, quietly but firmly, "if I were to leave now for the Merchants' District, and purchase the ritual items that Lord Xanos requires. I would prefer not to travel alone, but perhaps Brude or Lord Xanos could accompany me, while Krag - and whoever doesn't accompany me - could go in search of the Temple of Ishtar. We could all then reconvene here before traveling to Ishtar's House."
-
"I, Krag, agree!
Xanos and Brude, what do you say? Do you two have other plans that need accomplished prior to going buying and blessing the items and seeing Melanarma?"
-
(I'm still here, but it sounds like you haven't figured out exactly what is going to happen). :)
-
Krag is going to search for the Temple of Ishtar, and Hakim is going to look for powdered ram's horn, poppies' milk, and lovebirds in the Merchants' District.
So, Brude and Xanos need to decide if they are going with Krag or Hakim. I presume we will all meet back at the Temple of Erlik after we've completed our tasks.
-
Brude is going to stand guard over Xanos, who appears to have entered a meditative state.
-
It doesn't take Krag long at all to find the Temple of Ishtar. He is surprised to see some sort of ceremony going on.
Many white robed females are chanting an invocation over and over again, as drums beat slowly. Each one has tall candles resting on their shoulders, and the wax is melting down their arms, and looks rather painful, but still they chant.
"... and with our deaths."
"Unto Her who renders decision, Goddess of all things. Unto the Lady of Heaven and Earth who receives supplication: Unto Her who hears petition, who entertains prayer; Unto the compassionate Goddess who loves righteousness; Ishtar the Queen, who suppresses all that is confused. To the Queen of Heaven, the Goddess of the Universe, the One who walked in terrible Chaos and brought life by the Law of Love; And out of Chaos brought us harmony. To Ishtar, Goddess of all that is love, we praise thee with our lives, with our bodies, and with our deaths."
"Unto Her who renders..."
They are standing on the stairs of the temple, and it seems, at least for now, that the temple is shut.
---------------------------------------
Hakim has a little space to cover to get to the Merchant district in his search for Xanos' ingredients for his spell.
While he is traveling, the dirty girl who leads the Dust approaches him quickly. She mumbles quietly under her breath as she holds a folded piece of parchment in her hand.
"This is for your master when you see him."
With that she rushes off without waiting to hear any words back from Hakim.
He travels a little more through the throngs of unwashed humanity. At the beginning of the Merchant district, a large upper floor of a building explodes with black smoke and very strangely colored flames. Flaming bodies are flung down below to splatter on the street below. Dark black flames rise to the sky leaving a somewhat disturbed feeling on those who look at them. No one really understands why, but at looking at the smoke, they feel like something is looking back from the flames and smoke...
---------------------------------
Brude hangs out, with this meditating master. He sees several lusty wenches a short distance off, who eye him up (and flash him by lifting their skirts).
-
(Sorry for the delay. My internet was out, which was why I figured I'd have Xanos stay behind. Should have explained, sorry. If Brude wants to go with either of the others, Xanos will stay with the Aesir.)
Xanos finds a table at an outdoor cafe', orders Brude an ale, but none for himself, pours some sand onto the table and begins tracing strange symbols into it. One is recognizable as a sigil of Ishtar. He occasionally wipes the sand clean and starts again. He seems to be working on some kind of formula, and is lost in concentration. Any attempts to get his attention are either ignored or met with the raising of a dismissive hand.
By the time the others return he seems to have finished his task and is teaching the Aesir how to read her native tongue by writing in the sand.
-
Brude stands guard and ensures that Xanos is undisturbed. Brude will sip his ale while keeping an eye on the crowds.
-
Does Krag recognize the ceremony?
Mind 2, Druid 2, Other 2 (?) and roll 3
-
Mind 2 + Druid 2 + 3 = 7 failure.
He does understand all of the words, and it seems like it is mostly a repeated prayer of praise. Though he does think it has a larger significance.
-
Hakim (who has carefully tucked away the new parchment message for Xanos) observes the burning building for a few minutes. He tries not to look too closely at the flames, and pays most of his attention to the bodies of the victims - do they look like priests, mages, or ordinary people? He also listens to any onlookers and tries to determine if any of them know what happened.
After 5 minutes, Hakim continues on his errand for Xanos. (He'll buy the powdered ram's horn first; then the poppies' milk; then the lovebirds.)
-
Krag observes the worshipers and tries to learn the prayer (maybe in the future -near or far - it would help)
(Tim see OOC)
-
Hakim notices that many of the burning bodies were wearing black robes with no markings on them. One thing that is a little disturbing, is that none of the bodies on the ground, have heads... The bodies could be mages or priests, or perhaps a union of both for all he knows.
Hakim listens to the flames and swears he hears strange whispering, but then it fades as the flames die down to a low burning.
None of the onlookers are sure what happened, and avoid the bodies on the ground as if they were anathema.
It doesn't take Hakim long to find the appropriate places to purchase his items. Give me 3 Merchant rolls to see how well you do.
-
Is this ceremony blocking the door to the temple? Are the doors open or shut? Are there openings where someone can step in, or is it well choreographed?
Anything else Krag would notice about the temple and the worshipers?
-
Hakim shudders at the headless bodies, then leaves the burning building and heads into the Merchants' District. Here's how well he did in his haggling:
Powdered ram's horn: 10 + 2 (Mind) +1 (Merchant) = 13
Poppies' milk: 7 + 2 (Mind) +1 (Merchant) = 10
Lovebirds: 5 + 2 (Mind) +1 (Merchant) = 8
(I assume the relevant stat here is Mind, since Hakim is negotiating with fellow merchants, rather than trying to charm them.)
-
Hakim buys all of the required ingredients for Xanos' spell. He also comes across several good deals that he purchases and flips for a minor profit to several vendors slightly farther away. He gets a little burnt on the price of the love birds, as the vendor claimed there was a shortage of them in the city, and they were worth more.
So in the end he bought the required products and by doing some buying and selling, he managed to cut the cost down by about 30%.
Varnost was a strong Cimmerian vendor that he bought the Ram's horn from. He mentioned that he might have some "work" in the future, if Hakim would like some extra coin jingling in his pocket.
Unless Hakim wants anything else, he manages to get out of the Merchant District without loosing any blood.
-----------------
Krag while patiently waiting sees that the women dressed in white robes, are from all walks of life, and from many of the races of the world. Some of them are quite beautiful. The temple is well wrought, and Krag thinks that the temple prostitutes must be worth their weight in gold. With some looking, Krag does find another entrance into the temple. The walls are covered in tapestries showing scenes of love and healing, with much nudity, but done with taste. He manages to find one of the smaller areas of worship with an altar. A young female acolyte is shocked when she sees a male unchaperoned, but when he explains that he is a rare male priest of the order, she helps him with the prayers and the offerings needed to appease and worship the goddess Ishtar. Feeling a loving peace, and her divine favor resting on him, Krag has accomplished his quest.
-
Hakim thanks Varnost, makes a mental note of his name for later, and then returns to where Xanos and Brude were waiting (presumably, in front of the Temple of Erlik) to deliver Xanos's merchandise.
-
Xanos looks up from his impromptu writing lesson with the Aesir, and takes the items Hakim offers when he returns. After a short inspection, he nods, satisfied with their quality and amount. He gestures to the chair next to Brude and motions to a serving girl that another drink should be brought. He then goes back to scratching symbols in the sand on the table, and speaking softly to the Aesir woman.
-
Krag also returns to Xanos and the rest of the group.
-
As Krag returns, Xanos sweeps the sand off the table and back into his bag.
"Did you find the temple?"
-
(We are apparently meeting in a tavern of some sort.)
Hakim will ask the serving girl whom Xanos has summoned for a cup of chilled wine and a plate of meat and vegetables, "well-spiced, if you please."
-
The food is brought, and the party is once again whole. :)
-
I did find the the Goddess's temple, and was well received.
-
Xanos nods to Krag, looks over the supplies and stands.
"Take us there"
-
Brude will clear a path to the door.
-
Krag will grab a leg of meat off the table swig some ale and lead the group to the Temple of Ishtar.
-
While heading towards the Temple if Ishtar you all can see the billowing smoke from 4 different areas around the city. One makes Hakim think of the building that exploded while he was over there. The others are in various parts around the city, but not in the Temple district.
It doesn't take very long to get to the Temple of Ishtar. The ceremony that was being held outside must be finished, or perhaps they went indoors to complete it.
The Temple stands there waiting to be entered.
-
Hakim gazes at the smoke plumes with a worried expression. "This is an ill omen," he says. He then describes to the other party members the burning building and bodies he passed while entering the Merchants' District.
-
Xanos' eyes narrow as he listens to Hakim's description of the monk-like victims. He tries to make any connections based on Hakim's description of their clothes and symbols.
-
Miko will hold the door open and invite his friends in to the temple.
-
Xanos thinks that there are a lot of evil sorcerers and priests to evil deities that wear those sorts of robes. :)
The group sees inside the doors. The group of women that were chanting, are chanting still, but they are near the altar and the candles on their shoulders have burned low.
-
(The group waits for our resident priest of Ishtar to lead the way. When in Rome, and all..)
-
Once everyone steps in the temple entrance, Krag clarifies with Xanos exactly what he wants to accomplish here.
"Are we just blessing these items? Looking for any information? What is our complete list of objectives?"
-
"We need to protect ourselves from Mellanarma's charms and spells before we chance meeting with her. I have worked out a means of doing such, and this place is the most suited I've seen in the city, and my hope is that with Krag's presence, the sisters will not be adverse to aiding us. In essence I will be invoking a protective array woven in with a unique love spell. It is actually a variation of a ritual I learned in my youth from one of Ishtar's own. I would imagine that once the sept here learns our intent they would be most willing to allow Krag and I to work this incantation here.. The items Hakim has procured are simply the reagents for the ritual. The love birds will also be left behind as an offering, assuming the priestesses are willing to grant us this favor."
-
Several of the female priests make their way over to Krag.
"Are you here to worship, or is there something else we can help you strong lads with? Perhaps we can worship privately..."
-
See OOC thread.
-
Hakim gazes at the smoke plumes with a worried expression. "This is an ill omen," he says. He then describes to the other party members the burning building and bodies he passed while entering the Merchants' District.
Hakim, how right you were...
-
While worshiping privately is very tempting I will have to pass for now.
My friend's and I are on a quest and unfortunately we have to deal with Melanarma. My friend, denotes Xanos, and I would like to perform a ritualistic prayer and with Ishtar's good grace and blessing we will be protected from the sorceress and her tricks.
-
Once we get all the players back, with some new additions, we can start again.
-
The female Priest of Ishtar seems like she is Corinthian, being stout with tawny hair.
"Our ceremony is almost complete. We recite this prayer that was handed down by one of the founding members of this temple on this day every year. We honor her courage and sacrifice. She hears us, and helps us to gain a closer communion with the Lady of Eternity. Ishtar is close to us today and the days following the ceremony."
When given the doves as a gift:
"I see that you have brought us a gift for the Lady. Thank you, and may her bountiful grace illuminate your lives, and lead you to love in all that you do."
-
Hakim waits respectfully for the priestesses to finish their ritual. His demeanor is polite and he pretends to be blase, but perceptive characters will note that he seems quite interested in the ceremony.
-
Xanos nods as the offering is accepted. He looks to Krag and waits.
-
(OOC: Is Krag still with us, or is he currently an NPC?)
-
A male priest of Ishtar is sitting in the sanctuary, and seems to notice your arrival.
Krag seems to have wondered off a little into the sanctuary to bask in the final choral notes of the song.
-
Xanos watches Krag wander away with a look of exasperated annoyance. After waiting a few moments he turns to Hakim.
"It seems our Priest has more pressing matters to attend to. Perhaps that one may be of assistance."
Xanos nods toward the other male priest near by.
-
"Enough of this!"
The doors swing open with a crash, and a giant of a man strides through the door, his Aesir features clouded with restrained rage. The hammer held ready on his right shoulder is large enough to fell most men just from carrying it, but it doesn't seem to burden him at all. His blonde hair, worn long, but tied back with a simple leather leather tie, is brushed aside as he brings the weapon around to slap with a thunderous clap into his other hand. His pale eyes flash, and he rumbles forth an ultimatum to the strangely clad dark-skinned one.
"Return my sister, and I will let you live. I promise no more."
-
If the giant's sudden and violent appearance surprises the tall dark figure, it does not show. He meerly twists his head toward the noise. Upon the threat the look of annoyance on Xanos' face hardens, a muscle in his jaw twitches and his pale eyes narrow. The sun catches them in a way that seems to set them alight with a fire from within. His hands open wide at his sides, tensed like claws. A sudden coincidental chill moves through the air in the temple garden.
He hardly moves at all, nearly unnaturally still amid the sudden chaos, but somehow in an eyeblink all humanity has drained from his dark face. Something behind his eyes steals warmth and nerve, and his voice, rich and arrogant a moment before, now growls and cuts with nearly otherworldly hatred and command.
"Threats, fleshling? You-"
His eyes narrow deeper, but momentarily lose focus on the huge Aesir. A heartbeat later, he continues and refocuses, his hands clench, the fire leaves his eyes, replaced by a cold, harsh concentration. An unamused stare gazes forth toward the Aesir.
"- are lucky I am one who believes in second chances. Use it wisely."
-
Krag's observations of the ritual's finale has moved him to a position near the stout priestess.
-
Hakim takes an involuntary step back when the Aesir man crashes through the doors. His hand moves up, almost as involuntarily, to rest on the pommel of his sword. The dark-skinned merchant then waits to see what the Aesir will say (or, more likely, bellow) in response to Xanos's peculiar declaration.
-
The strange, frightening expression on Xanos' face causes the hammer in the Aesir's hands to raise as if he expects to block a blow. His brow furrows for a moment, as if confused, or perhaps even worried - although such an emotion is difficult to picture on his huge frame. He rallies quickly, though, and takes a step forward, looking to the girl.
"Rannveig. Are you unhurt, sister?"
-
Krag mutters a quick little spell and motions his fingers as if untying a knot.
-
Rannveig Aesir Warrior
Rannveig moves in front of Xanos and his other associates. She folds her arms under her breasts and stares at her brother, with a look of both happiness, and anger. She motions for her brother to lower his weapon with her hand.
Meanwhile, Krag (while inside the temple of his deity) seems unhappy, and a little angry at seeing a weapon drawn in the sanctuary. His prayer is granted, and the large intruder's weapon is flung away, and smashes into a nearby pew. All of the strings and connections on the weapon are loosed, and the weapon is temporarily broken.
-
The ritual and prayers are interrupted by the noise of the outburst, and the following actions.
The priestesses of the temple, seem to be slowly moving in the direction of you all, and they don't look happy... at all.
-
Hakim turns to the priestesses, bows low, and says "Forgive us, most eminent and noble sisters, for this unintended outburst. It was merely the result of a brief misunderstanding between my Lord Xanos and this, er" - he glances nervously at the Aesir warrior - "sojourner. We meant no disrespect to you or Lady Ishtar. To prove it, we are ready to make an additional sacrifice to the goddess and an additional contribution to her priests and priestesses - whatever you think would be appropriate." He smiles disarmingly, which is hard for a Turanian to do.
-
The priestesses don't look at Xanos, or at the strange Aesir warrior. They do however look at Krag, that seems to be associated with you all. A stunning Corinthian woman, dressed in the finest white gown, stands forward, with the stains of the melted candles down her shoulders and arms.
Head Priestess Leenatha
"You have breached the sacred ritual to Ishtar. The sweet communion that we sought, has been brought down into the ashes of nothing. HOW DARE YOU bring these uncouth associates into our sanctuary, and behave like insolent children! All of you leave this place! Hours of work have been brought to ruin, and the preparations must be made at once to begin again. Performing the rites is a demanding experience, and now we will have to perform it again. LEAVE AT ONCE, AND DO NOT COME BACK!"
Leenatha turns without waiting to hear a response, the angry walk betraying even more of her hidden beauty. The fellow priestesses follow with down turned heads, seeming to exude the frustration and desperation of the extensive work that shall have to be started anew.
-
Xanos' lips curl back in a snarl and his eyes close. He seems like a man attempting to steel himself against pain or torture. The pale blue tattoos on his skin begin to glow with a soft light.
"No. Now is not the time."
When he opens his eyes and speaks his voice cuts through the shocked silence.
"Priestess. I will be heard."
-
The head priestess stops, and seems to take a deep breath. She slowly turns, with a look that any married man knows could curdle milk. She does not move, but instead motions with her hand for Xanos to come to her position.
-
Xanos strides forward until he is near enough to speak more privately.
"I do not appreciate being held responsible for that foolish Aesir's disrespect. I came to you in good faith seeking aid, I brought offerings of appreciation. Obviously I will need to make further offerings to make amends for the damage my presence has caused, though I accept no fault for what has transpired. Since stepping foot into your grove I have been sequentially ignored, threatened, disrespected and dismissed. I am nearing the end of my patience. If I am to leave empty handed, it will be because of what happens next. Not what has happened before."
-
The priestess stares at Xanos, and seems to note something about him that she missed before.
She says nothing for awhile, letting the silence do her bidding.
Eventually she speaks.
"You were ignored, because we were performing our sacred rite. To be fair, your presence was not at fault, if the biceps and no brains ignoramus is not with you. I was rash, though because of so much wasted effort, I hope you can see how that happened... Speak now, I care not for offerings. What is it you seek, and be quick about it, before I loose my patience as well."
-
Krag observes the Aesir's brother for any more actions that are disrespectful to the Lady Ishtar
-
Xanos nods.
"You may have heard this story, but I ask your indulgence and hope you enjoy my telling.
At the dawn of your order, in the days when Ishtar's worshipers were little more than shunned women fleeing from abusive raiders and tribal laws, dancing and bleeding, painted in pigments pulled from the colors of summer, naked before the judgments of a notoriously fickle power, hoping for notice and protection, there was a young woman named Vanya who loved a young warlord who was said to be destined to rule the world.
Another woman, a sorceress, had set her sights on Vanya's love and bewitched him, knowing that the woman who could possess his heart would become the power behind the throne. With Ishtar's blessing and power, Vanya managed to bring her love to a poppy field on a summer's eve much like this one. She prayed to her goddess while she made love to him, weaving into their union a powerful magic which broke the sorceress' enchantment and guarded him against further womanly charms and powers. She told him that no one, woman or man, should have the power to control another's heart. Only love, real and true, should hold that providence. She told him she loved him.
He said nothing. He remembered his love for her, but the sorceress' power had twisted and tainted his true feelings, irrevokably changing his memories of her to ones of loss and betrayal. She had done none of the horrible things he remembered, but still he felt the pain of them, and so while he was thankful for being released from his servitude, he did not love her. He left, and she wept. The power of the magic she had woven that night, combined with the power of her grief crated a flower, never before seen. That flower would become known as Vanya's Sorrow, and I have seen that it still only grows on the plains of Cimmuria, supposedly where Vanya lost her one true love, the same field where the Church of Ishtar began. The Field of Vanya.
What brings me here is the charm she worked that night. You see, the release and protection Vanya worked that night was powered only by the sorrow of heartbreak. The pain of love, not it's joy. The Warlord found that the protection she had wrought was tied to his sorrow. He would not fall for the sorceress' enchantments only because of the strength of what he felt for Vanya, a woman that he both loved and hated. As his emotions faded, so to did the protections. Most tragic of all, by the time he was able to conquer his false memories and emotions, Vanya had died. She had taken herself and their son away to the fields of Cimmuria, she had created an order dedicated to love and life, both it's power to create and it's power to destroy. She herself would never again love another, but her devotion to her god and the wisdom she preached brought much glory to Ishtar and much power to women everywhere. She was killed by the army of Garonas the Heartless when he took it upon himself to wipe out Ishtar's fledgling order.
The warlord reached Ishtar's Grotto only a month after her passing. When he was told of her death he fell to his knees and wept. It is said to be the only time in his life he would ever shed a tear. Where he wept, Vanya's power rewove itself, his sorrow powered her magic once more. Where he wept a flower never before seen bloomed. The priestesses believed that the Goddess herself had taken pity on Vanya and her love.
That day is one I believe your order still observes, called the Day of Regret, and the flowers that bloomed there are said to be favorites of the Goddess. The surviving priestesses called them Zanyo's Tears. When the warlord killed Garonas' he dropped them on the corpse in honor of the woman who had given him back his heart.
Have you heard this story, Priestess?"
-
The face of the priestess undergoes a miraculous change. It moves away from a face of resentment, to one of curiosity, and then finally dumbfounded awe of the story as it is told. At the end of the tale she is weeping, but still she looks at Xanos, not able to turn away.
"These things you have said this day, are like a revelation. We have only hints and vague customs, compared to what you have laid before us. It is as if Ishtar herself has spoken through you, delivering to us words from the past that have not seen the light of day for a very long time. I humbly beg your forgiveness, at my rash and heated behavior. It seems in a way we were worshipping the ritual itself, and forgot the true message of our Blessed Lady. I will have the scribes write down what you have told us, and we will pass it to other temples, so that they might know at last, some of the reasons behind the strictures we follow. Thank you."
"And to answer your question, yes, we still can cast this spell on all of you. There is a specific order among us that is blessed by Ishtar to bestow this blessing on those that seek it, and other similar magics out. If all of you are willing, we can begin the process. You will need to be escorted to the private bathing chambers, where you shall be cleaned thoroughly, and then the order shall have to lie with all of you in turn, to bring about the similar magical protections you seek. If any of you feel squemish about how the blessing is bestowed, in the throws of passion, then we do offer a slightly less protective option, that does not require the pressing of flesh on flesh."
-
From his belt pouch Xanos draws a small leatherbound book, opens it and pulls a dried flower from within. He holds it for a moment, his head drooping slightly. When he looks up he presses the flower into the priestess' hand. His eyes hold hers. They bear a terrible sadness, but only for a moment.
"Vanya's Sorrow, plucked from the sacred grove this spring as I made my way from the north."
As the flower passes from his hand, the steel returns to his gaze, all emotion gone once more.
He turns and beckons the rest of the group closer.
"Come. It is time for us each to fall in love, so that our hearts may be broken."
-
Hakim does as he is told.
-
Everyone of you is escorted into a private bathing chamber, where much happens that I will not go into here... To make a long story short, all of you are thoroughly exhausted, and have been cleansed and bathed in holy waters, and blessed in the holy union with the members of the order of female priestesses that excel in the arts of love. You feel worn thin, but in a good way. It is a feeling after a very long and rigorous work out, and the contentment that aids your sore and tired muscles.
After all of the rituals are performed, it is told to you that none of the priestesses can talk to you, for that will break the enchantment. So they quietly (with mischief still in their eyes) lead you in a solemn single file line to the exit of the temple, where you are left near breathless on the streets of the Wicked City.
-
Xanos' words even make the head priestess offer their protection to the large hammer wielding man, if he is so willing. His sister tries to calm him down with hand gestures if he gets angry again. She motions with her hands that she can't talk, and by holding her hands to her heart, and then to her brother's heart, she tries to tell him, that she loves him and is glad to finally see him again.
-
Krag prays a prayer of gratitude to his goddess Ishtar, thanking her for their protection and enjoyment of the ritual.
-
As the sad tale of Vanya is woven, the giant Aesir moves to lift his broken weapon from the wreckage of the pew. Examining the damage, he finds that it can be easily repaired with a few minutes work- somehow, the ties had come loose and the pin removed. Odd, that, not to mention the tugging from his hands, as if carried by a gale wind. He raises his eyes to meet his sister's frantic hand motions, and as it becomes clear she can no longer speak, his eyes cloud over with anger again, but better placed this time. Before the priestesses can drag them all aside, he takes her arm, in a powerful but gentle grip, and says to her in a voice like the promise of thunder, "I swear by Ymir's beard and on our father's hammer, sister, I will punish the ones who have done this to you."
Looking up, he catches Xanos's eye when the dark-skinned one's tale is done. "I was, perhaps, rash earlier. It is clear she thinks no ill of you, and my time is better spent finding the fools who have hurt my family than the friends they have made along the way. We will speak later, and if you have helped her as I think you have, then I owe you a great debt. So speaks Dorin Rogalsen."
Confused, and not a little angry, Dorin allows himself to be led along by the priestesses, to ... unwind.
-
Brude is waiting outside for everyone, leaning against a wall on the opposite side of the street.
-
Hakim is one of the first party members to exit the temple and return to the street. Brude notices that both the merchant and his clothing look notably cleaner than they did when he entered the temple, and that when Hakim leaves the temple he has a bit of swagger in his stride.
"Greetings, Brude," says the Turanian. "I trust you weren't bored in our absence."
-
The Pict shrugs and says "It was quiet enough out here. I was watching the street urchins harass the passerbys until the watch chased them off. I heard a bit of a commotion out near the front door, but you all seem to be doing okay."
-
Seeing that not everyone is ready yet, spends some time in devotion to Ishtar and talking with some of the other priestesses. He looks around for his friend that he saw here earlier but the priest appears to have left.
-
Rannveig the Aesir Woman gives her wayward brother a big hug, and points to all of those in the group and smiles. She points to her mouth and shakes her head. She does her best to mime chains and dragging, and then points off in the direction she believes the slave district is in the Wicked City.
She hugs her brother again, and her eyes get moist. She pats him on the back, and then releases him from her embrace. She looks at Xanos, pointing in the direction of the Temple district and then holds her hands up and out towards the side, as if to say, now what?
-
Dorin strides through the temple doors a bit behind the rest of the group, hefting his hammer in both hands. Setting the haft against the wall, he resets the head with a long-practiced movement, slamming the pin back into place with the heel of his hand and re-tying the leather thongs.
As his sister mimes her way through her explanation, his face grows cold. He turns in the direction of the slave markets, staring with hate in his eyes. "Soon," he mutters to himself.
Turning to Xanos, he inclines his head in a gesture of respect. "Now then. I wish to hear how my sister came to be in your company. I have justice to deal, and I think you may know to whom."
-
Xanos has the barest hint of a smile on his face as he walks out of the temple leaving the high priestess standing in the doorway with a look of wonder and satisfaction on her face. He does not look back, but he does drop a sizable offering into the fountain on his way out.
He nods to Brude and Hakim and is about to ask about the whereabouts of Krag, then turns as the large Aesir interrupts him.
"Your sister was sold to me. Now she follows because she chooses to. If it is justice you seek, I have a man tailing those responsible. He should be returning shortly and will likely be able to tell you where they are. In the mean time, you are welcome to stay in our company, providing that you do not further hinder my plans."
-
At the word 'sold', Dorin's brow twitches, some private thought stirring the anger that seems to hide just under his surface. "I have no fight with you or your plans, if what you say is true. Perhaps I may even be of some help along the way. First, a moment with my kin." As he converses more with Xanos, some patterns start to arise. The Aesir speaks slowly, as if turning over the phrase in his mind as it emerges. No words are wasted, but he is not curt, or rude. The result is a strange mix of formality and bluntness, implacably driving his points home with all the subtlety of the giant hammer he carries.
Turning to Rannveig, he asks in his unique way, "Is this truly your will, sister? Mother waits on your return, but I will not bar your way if this is the path you choose to walk."
-
Rannveig nods and points at Xanos. She moves closer to him, but doesn't touch him, simply just standing beside him. Then she moves closer to her brother and gives him another big hug.
(Kind of a character driven moment, so drive it.) ;D
-
Dorin's face softens for a moment, the harsh lines of his anger resolving into a soft smile. Laying a hand on his sister's head, he strokes her hair once, as he did when they were children. Then, as quickly as it came, the smile fades into a stern, determined look and he gently pushes her out to arm's length and looks into her face.
"Very well then. If you will stay, then so be it. But no sister of mine will learn the world and how to survive it from foreigners. I shall have to remain, at least for a time."
With this last, he glances to Xanos, so the strange leader will know who the words were meant for.
-
Xanos' usually impassive face watches the interaction with a strange expression, something between slight amusement and slight exasperation, with perhaps a hint of fondness. Something akin to how a kennel master might look at a particularly unruly puppy. He says nothing to the pair. He turns to Hakim.
"To Melanarma."
-
Brude will wait for Hakim to show the way and will then start clearing people out of Xanos' path.
-
After gleaming all he can from the temple, Krag emerges into the street and walks over to Brude, Xanos, Hakim and pretty lady that does not talk.
-
Hakim, who had been cleaning his nails with a small knife, looks up when Xanos speaks to him and puts the blade away. He spends a moment in thought, then quietly recites the poem he was given by the priests of Erlik:
"Mellenarma the seductress / Is a selfish destructive woman / Her lair's entrance / Is behind the Temple of Dagoth / The sleeping god / Wear caution when visiting / For many do not return."
(It rhymes in Turanian, anyway.)
"We shall proceed, my Lord, to the Temple of Dagoth." (Hakim hopes that's a fairly well-known landmark, or that someone in the party knows its location.)
-
It isn't too far to the temple of Dagoth (a newer temple for a new cult). In fact, the temple seems to be under the final stages of construction. Laborers are carrying and dragging stones for the final upper levels of the temple.
There are a good many of the followers of Dagoth helping as well, and they are easily distinguishable as many of them are beautiful men and women. It seems Dagoth only accepts the beautiful ones.
While trying to get behind the temple, the group is confronted with a problem. There seems to be some sort of violent dancing of the Dagoth worshipers in a mob of people between where you are now, and where you need to go. Hakim doesn't know of any way around them, and fears they must go through the churning mob.
It is a strange sight to see such beautiful people hurting themselves and others in such a chaotic fashion.
-
Xanos cocks an eyebrow at the strange sight.
"A strange ceremony. Is it likely to end soon? What is it's significance?"
-
While watching, they see a young man take a vicsous blow to the face and go down beneath the stomping feet of the other worshipers. It is only a small fragment of time, before you see only a smashed corpse under the churning masses, as his neck and head are staring blindly out at you at an awkward angle.
At closer inspection, perhaps the worshipers are high on some narcotic or drug, for they seem not to be looking in any other direction than upwards at the sky. Their beautiful faces are beginning to be covered with cuts, scrapes, and blood, but the violence does not end, instead, it seems to pick up with several more younger pretty people being brutalized and finally die. The beautiful sacrifices continue to fall beneath the feet of their brothers & sisters of their faith.
-
A grunt escapes Dorin's lips, the sight reminding him of his father's tales of the Children of Doom. He shakes his head angrily.
"Such a waste for a false god."
Turning to Xanos, he raises an eyebrow.
"Xanos," he begins, having learned names on the journey, "If I am to aid your quest, it would help to know what it is."
-
Xanos does not turn to the Aesir as he replies, he continues to watch the spectacle before him. He seems slightly amused by the strange, horrible ritual.
"The followers of Dagoth worship no False God. A weak, strange and flawed one to be sure, but not false. Perhaps with the energies granted by such people as we see before us, Dagoth will finally find method he seeks in his madness. Myself, I seek a relic called the Eye of the Serpent. Krag seeks an artifact as well. For the moment we, like the God these fools worship, are treasure hunters of a sort. The noblewoman Melanarma is said to have information we may find useful. It is no mistake that she resides amid the lunacy here."
-
Brude looks to see how the laborers are getting up to the temple with the stone blocks.
-
The laborers are given room by the revelers, and the churning beautiful humanity is in the way as you are trying to get behind the temple.
The laborers are dragging stones, carrying them, using crude wagons, etc. to cart the stone to the temple. They all look exhausted, but you can see the glint of zealousness in their eyes, and you know their faith is driving them more than a master with a whip ever could. In the end they are highly motivated to finish the temple, and it seems that having it built faster is more preferable than to later.
-
Hmmm. Building in speed, and sacrificing accuracy. Mel must have a deadline she needs the temple done.
Using my skills I try to determine how long this religious ceremony will last. (mind 2, druid 2, other sense 2)
I roll 2d6, right = 8.
Using my skills in slavery can all or some of us blend in with the workers and "help build the temple" to get through the ritual?
-
Anyone with an Appeal Stat of 2 or more thinks they can blend in with the dancers, as they are all pretty. Anyone with an Appeal Stat of 1 or more thinks they can blend in with the workers (as even they are pretty attractive).
Basically, if you aren't pretty, you will stick out like a sore thumb. :)
-
Xanos, canny and observant fellow that he is, notices Krag thoughtfully scanning the crowd and the laborers.
"I'm afraid I simply do not blend well, Krag. Nor, I suspect will Brude or Dorin. Subtlety and stealth is not one of our company's strengths. We may be better off waiting until this insanity has run it's course. At this rate, I expect them to fall from exhaustion or blood loss before the turn of the hour."
-
The brutal dance continues with the weakest ones dying first under the uncaring feet of their fellow believers. After some time the exhaustion starts to set in, but they keep dancing, albeit slower. Then the chanting begins.
"DAGOTH TAKE OUR BODIES! GIVE US PLEASURE OH GREAT LORD! DAGOTH WE ARE YOUR SACRIFICE!"
"DAGOTH TAKE OUR BODIES! GIVE US PLEASURE OH GREAT LORD! DAGOTH WE ARE YOUR SACRIFICE!"
"DAGOTH TAKE OUR BODIES! GIVE US PLEASURE OH GREAT LORD! DAGOTH WE ARE YOUR SACRIFICE!"
"DAGOTH TAKE... "
The chanting continues, and there are now at least 20 broken bodies that were once beautiful. And then, it all stops suddenly, with no spoken word or gesture. They simply stop, and look up towards the temple that is being finished. They start picking up the bloody chunks, broken bones, and corpses and begin taking them into the temple proper, seemingly to do something with them.
-
"Brude, Dorin, lead us in. We will follow the crowd."
-
Dorin seems lost in thought for a moment, the name of the Eye of the Serpent stirring a memory. Shaking himself, he nods to Xanos and strides forward purposefully, hammer slung over his shoulder.
-
With my religious knowledge and some handsomeness (appeal 1) maybe I could help more?
-
Krag probably has his strongest foot forward in this area, yes. ;D
Some in the crowd look back at some of the more ugly members of the party, but seem focused on what they are doing. They wander through the large sanctuary of the Dagoth Temple which seems to still be under construction. The crowd of bleeding worshipers walk up onto the large slab that looks like a stage at this point, and wonders through several arches that are being guarded by strong looking guards. Each of the worshipers holds their left hand out while passing the guards, that seem to look at them, though from where you are all standing it is hard to make out what they are looking at.
-
Brude will follow Krag in, putting his left hand out like the others. He will have his other hand ready to draw his sword in case the guards object.
-
Dorin extends his left hand, his right tensing slightly in anticipation of the need to lay out a guard to gain time to unsling his hammer.
-
Xanos whispers under his breath as they approach, also raising his hand.
-
Xanos Mind 4 + Magician 2 + 6 = 12 success.
The guards look at the left hands of all of the party members, and let you pass without saying a word or getting in your way. It seems they saw what Xanos wanted them to see...
Behind the arches lies a larger room that has 2 exits on the rear wall. You see people file into both of them, carrying bodies into both exits. Most of the people have now gone into either the one on the left, or the one on the right.
-
Do the exits appear to lead outside of the building, or into another room?
-
An astute observer notes that there appear to be stairs down through the exits, so the followers of Dagoth are carrying the corpses down below.
-
Brude will start heading towards the left exit.
-
Hakim tries to determine whether or not descending the stairs would be a good idea. Is the "larger room" in which we are currently standing at street level? If so, then the stairs lead down below the ground, and may not be the best way to exit the building.
-
Though thinking we want to get around back, Krag leads the group to the room/stairs on the right
-
Xanos looks at the group beginning to split.
"Brude"
He nods toward Hakim and Krag.
"Now that we are inside, there are others better suited to lead."
-
Brude will shrug and start heading towards the right exit as well.
[OOC: Are there any other exits other than the left and right ones with stairs going down?]
-
Krag keeps his eyes wide open taking in everything around him paying a lot of attention to his surroundings.
-
The two exits to the back are the only other exits to the room.
You think you are on street level, and the stairs going below are indeed beneath street level.
They are taking the bodies somewhere beneath the temple.
-
Hakim follows Krag and Brude through the right-hand door and down the stairs. He tries to walk fairly close to Krag, to whom he says, quietly, "We can look for an exit once we're in the basement. If there isn't one, we can wait till the end of the interment, then leave with the crowd."
-
"Or we can just hack our way out," mutters Brude,
-
The group follows the worshipers down into the depths of the new temple.
The stairs wind and turn, and it feels like they are going quite deep beneath the surface of the world. You get that "burn feeling" in your calves right near the bottom of them from walking down so many steps. You reach a great underground cavern that has a small underground stream moving through the center of it. A second exit can be seen across the chamber, and worshipers are filing out of it as well. I imagine you stop for a second at the entrance to the cavern.
The ceiling is high above you, and impressive ancient drawings and carvings litter the roof. It seems some civilization found this long ago. Many images of a Rhino-looking monster adorn the walls and ceiling. Xanos and maybe Hakim can tell that the paint was probably mixed with blood from its color and consistency.
In the center of the cavern is an enormous cairn of massive rocks piled in the shape of a rough pyramid.
You watch as the worshipers start to take the bodies to this pile of stones.
-
Dorin steps in after Hakin and Krag and looks around at the large room, his brow furrowing at the cairn in the center.
He grunts. "Nothing good can come of that thing."
-
Watching the worshipers, are any coming in and right out or are they all down here to do something and then leave?
-
While the party stares from the doorway, the worshipers continue taking their corpses up to the large cairn. One by one they lower a corpse in what must be some sort of opening down into the cairn. When all of the bodies are placed inside, it looks like they are starting to turn to come back in your direction.
-
We cannot stay here and block the door way. Krag begins to move across the room, to the other stairs.
-
The worshipers came out of both stairway doors so you think they would go up in a similar fashion.
-
Brude grins and puts his hand on his sword hilt, thinking things are going to get messy soon.
-
Does it look like any of the worshipers are priestly or in charge? Are all these people just common worshipers?
-
Dorin shifts his stance, ready to snatch his hammer from its sling, but looks to Xanos for guidance. Not one to shrug from a fight, the Aesir still looks a little uncomfortable with starting trouble this deep in unknown territory.
-
You are in the stairway, and the worshipers are heading in your direction to go back up.
It looks like these are common worshipers, and there isn't anyone in charge of them.
You begin to wonder how many bodies have been delivered to the large cairn.
-
Hakim will take one last good look at the cairn, and try to estimate how many bodies could be buried under the stones (probably a straightforward 2d6 + Mind [2] roll). Then he will start back up the stairs with the crowd of worshippers, trusting that Xanos, Brude, Krag, and Dorin will follow him in their own time.
6 + 2 + 2 = 10
Hakim thinks there may be upwards of 100 bodies in the cairn.
-
We cannot stay here and block the door way. Krag begins to move across the room, to the other stairs.
(OOC: this was back on the previous page)
-
Both stairs lead up to the temple above, and both stairs were used by the worshipers before to get down here. Worshipers are heading towards both stairs to continue upstairs.
I assume you all will go back upstairs, but I'm leaving that up to you, the players.
-
Krag will motion the other to return to the ground floor.
-
Dorin follows Krag's lead, his thick shoulders noticeably relaxing as they move away from the mass grave.
-
The group heads up the stairs and out into the temple proper that is still being worked on. You all get past the guards with no problems.
You see the people come out of the stairs behind you, and then dispearse in different directions. Perhaps they are going back to their homes?
-
Krag look around to get behind temple, since we could not go thru it.
Krag also prays to Ishtar - thanking her for getting them safely in and out of the temple.
-
Hakim quietly suggests to Krag that the party members wait for the worshippers to disperse, then exit the temple and circle around behind it (where, presumably, we will find Mellanarma's lair).
-
Everyone disperses, going their separate ways.
The party is left alone with the workers, that are still diligently working on completing the temple.
The party meanders their way to the back of the building, where they find a short black building, with no windows. It has a large thick wooden door, and two similarly large guards are standing before it, each having a large curved scimitar in their hands, with the flat of the blade resting on their shoulders. They are dark complected, but there is something strange about them, as their eyes are closed. At closer inspection, it seems like their eyes are stitched shut, and they have a red tattoo of an open eye on their foreheads.
-
Krag tries to be a little more observant as we meander around back. What part of the temple are the workers working on? From the inside or the outside?
-
Brude looks at Xanos.
"Do you want us to announce your presence? Or should we just force our way in?"
-
The workers are bringing in rocks and wood from the outside, and piling it up on the inside of the temple. They don't seem to care or look at you, except for the occasional glance of a bored tired worker.
-
"If this is indeed Melanarma's home, and not another mistaken wandering, then it would be only polite to knock. I would prefer that she help willingly."
-
Brude will approach the door.
"Lord Xanos is here to see your Mistress. You may announce his presence to her."
-
The one guard stares forwards, not even looking at Brude. The other guard looks at Brude and nods.
"One moment please, while I announce your presence. The Lady of Knives will see you shortly. Please wait here."
The one guard ducks into the door, and Brude catches the glimpse of a dark hallway with very few torches, and then the guard and the view are gone, and only a closed door remains.
-
Krag waits outside with the others, trying to observe what else might be going on, anything unusual?
-
You see the unusual presence of... nothing. Nothing at all out of the ordinary. :P
-
Hakim shudders when the guard calls Mellanarma "the Lady of Knives" - he has a pretty good idea what those knives are for.
Incidentally, the guards are described as "dark-complected" - does Hakim think that they might be Turanian?
-
Dorin turns to Xanos with a question.
"What can we expect to face here? I have dealt with few witches before, but I know they always have more tricks than they want you to think they do."
-
The guards are dark complected, but there is something strange about them, as their eyes are closed. At closer inspection, it seems like their eyes are stitched shut, and they have a red tattoo of an open eye on their foreheads. Hakim and some of the others think that the guards are more than likely Kushites.
The guard that is left continues to stand, and seems to not take any notice of you at all. He turns his head left and right several times a minute, but other than that it is hard to tell if he is human or a wax statue.
The other guard returns and opens up the doors and bows before you.
"The Lady of Knives was not prepared for such a visit, though she had word that there might be someone interested in seeing her. One of the waifs that supplies her with information had mentioned something about some strange Lord, and I assume that is you."
He points to Xanos, but does not look in his direction.
"Follow me my Lord and fellow retainers. I warn you however, do not touch the walls for they are perilous. We have had several thieves as of late, and my Lady has prepared something special for the next guest that comes seeking to steal from her. Follow me sirs, and do not dawdle."
The guard turns his back on you and starts a brisk walk down the long hallway with torches spread thin, so that there are dark patches in between the sections of hallway that are blessed with light.
-
As he begins to follow the strange guard, Xanos addresses Dorin's question.
"By all accounts the Lady Melanarma is an accomplished Enchantress. Keep your focus. The Blessing of Ishtar will provide powerful defense, but no defense is as strong as a powerful will. Find a reason to resist her charms, preferably a person or vow that is stronger than your baser urges, and she will be unable to find purchase for her magics. If things go well our preparations will be moot."
-
Brude will follow closely behind Xanos, with a careful eye out for trouble.
-
Krag will follow also, taking up the end of the line. with glances behind to avoid surprises.
-
The party travels through 4 wrought iron gates that each have a hideous grinning demon gargoyle with oversized genitals and outstretched wings in the center of them. Their iron tongues are overly long and wrap around their own legs and bodies. The gate itself is made out of intricately and ornately crafted iron in the shape of hundreds of naked men and women standing on each others' shoulders.
At each gate a naked Kushite guard stands with a massive curved tulwar on his shoulder. These guards are apparently allowed to have eyes. Their arms seem horrifically ritually scarred with what looks like sword slices. There seems to be many such deep cuts on each of the guards, and the guards closer to the center of the compound seem to have more scars upon their arms.
The last such Kushite guard is a massive specimen of a man, with cuts all up his arms and legs. He has a short goatee and close-cropped hair.
Nabud
"I am Nabud, slave to Mellanarma the Lady of Knives. Who among you is worthy and wishes to court my Lady?"
-
(Hakim glances at Xanos, waiting for his employer to step forward. Certainly no-one has ever used the adjective "worthy" to describe Hakim, unless it preceded the phrase "...only of the whipping post or the gallows.")
-
Brude will step forth and say "Our Lord Xanos, wishes to meet with Lady Mellanarma to discuss matters most urgent. Clear the way for him, or risk the wrath of your betters."
-
Nabud (Kushite Guard)
"Betters? My lady shall decide that boastful one. Xanos is it? You shall enter, the rest stay here. If he is found worthy, you all shall be allowed to enter."
-
Xanos nods to Brude, says nothing, and follows the slave.
-
Dorin takes Xanos's advice to heart, and begins to focus on his continuing quest to find his sisters. Never take chances with magic. He squats down and leans on the wall, shifting his hammer in its loop to find a comfortable position.
-
As Dorin sits and starts to lean on the wall, Krag grabs him by the shoulder and pulls forward (away from the wall).
"Pay attention, they said NOT to touch the walls!!
I probably just saved your life, Aesir"
-
Krag did indeed just save the Aesir's life... ;D
Xanos strides through the door, and has it locked behind him.
He travels down an aisle in what appears to be a large area built to accomodate roughly 100 people, with chairs set up like an amphitheater. In the center of the sloping chairs rests a giant black cube slab of solid rock, roughly 20 feet square. It is polished as smooth as glass. On the center of the slab is a woman with porcelain skin, clothed in black and white silk robes that expose her delicate shoulders. Her raven hair falls down her back like a dark enchanting river as she sits upon what appears to be an altar in the center of the black rock slab. She is sitting in what appears to be a meditative state, with her arms resting on her crossed legs.
The guards stop escorting Xanos, and point towards the Lady of Knives sitting upon the altar.
Something stirs within Xanos as he gets into this room (see PM).
-
Xanos walks to a position before the strange lady, but does not interrupt her meditation. He will wait until his presence is noticed.
-
Her eyes open, and she stares down at Xanos.
"Interesting... very interesting. It seems that little harlot actually spoke true when she spoke of you. You have a very interesting aura... in fact you have two of them... yes... yes... very interesting indeed."
"I have two questions for you, to see if you are worthy of my estates, lands, and my bed. What is there in life that holds meaning for you, and what is it that you seek beyond all else?"
-
Xanos' stony mask is empty and passive. One might think he was bored if not for the sharp and penetrating gaze sweeping from him. He looks at Melanarma for a long moment before finally speaking.
"Power."
"Freedom"
"There is nothing else."
-
Melanarma the Lady of Knives
"Power and Freedom are both excellent choices. You do seem to have promise. What lands and estates do you currently have dominion over? Would you care to sit beside me while we discuss things further?"
-
Xanos looks at the alter, then back to Melanarma. He does not move from where he stands.
"There is no dominion, not even over ones own self. I no longer claim lands as my own, though I find my presence is still felt in many places. My former estate was destroyed a few years ago. A Cimmurian, I believe. Someday I shall thank him for it."
-
Mellenarma looks disappointed.
"Perhaps, we are not such a great match after all."
She stands up abruptly, and draws out a sharp black dagger that was sitting behind her.
Initiative
Xanos 6 + 6 + 0 = 12
Mellenarma 2 + 6 + 2 = 10
Xanos is first, and he can tell that she means him harm.
-
She rises, and her blade comes to bear. Xanos' brows furrow and his lips pull back in a suddenly angry snarl. Xanos' massive shoulders roll and the voluminous black robe he wears falls to the floor around him leaving his runed chest bare.
"I am no suitor to your petty power games, girl!
He throws his heavy gloves to the floor and spreads his arms. Black and white swirling energy pours off his exposed hands.
"I am Xanos Doom!"
Arcane runes gleam off the thick bracers locked around his wrists. The tattoos running the length of his body illuminate with an inner fire which reflects in his now angry eyes.
"I seek what is mine. I was willing to trade you answers for the knowledge you possess."
One of his glowing and shadowed hands moves slowly forward, palms upward, gripping the air.
"Now I will simply take it..."
-
Xanos Spell Roll
(3 + 1) + Magician2 + Mind4 = 10
10 - 4(difficulty in temple & other defenses vs magic) = 6 failure.
(It sounds like Xanos really wants this spell to work, so I ASSUME he will use 3 Hero Points to make it happen. If not let me know).
6 + 3HeroPoints = 9 success!
The Lady of Knives falls prone on the ground, screaming, writhing, and raging in cords of living energy. She seems utterly bound before an irate Xanos. Her wicked black dagger falls from her hands and clatters on the floor, no longer posing any sort of threat.
Melenarma takes 5 damage.
Melanarma the Lady of Knives
"GUARDS!!! By Dagoth, Master of the Hidden Death, oh Lord of Entropy, Teacher of the Dark Path, I call on you to smite this infidel! Rack him with pain!"
(6 + 2) + 3Mind + 3Priest = 14
14 - 2Difficulty of Miracle = 12 success
Xanos can feel the divine presence of the Dark God upon his flesh.
Xanos takes (3 + 5) 8 damage, and is in agonizing pain.
Everyone hears Melenarma calling loudly for her Guards, as well as Xanos' and her prayers and invocations of magic.
New round of combat.
Initiative for everyone else
Xanos 12
Dorin (6+4)+1 = 11
Hakim (6+2)+2 = 10
Melanarma 10
Brude (6+2)+1 = 9
Krag (5+1) +2 = 8
Guards (1+3)+0 = 4
Damage
Melenarma (bound on the floor, 6 damage)
Xanos (8 out of 11 damage)
See Location on Map (tell me to which square you move to if you move)
Xanos is next, and he notices a strange white light that is slowly starting to make itself know around him, he feels that perhaps the Blessing of Ishtar has been invoked.
(http://www.geocities.com/baronvonharper/melenarma.jpg)
-
"That can't be good news," Hakim mutters, upon hearing the screams from the temple sanctuary. Meanwhile, Dorin takes his action (I assume).
-
Brude slowly draws his sword out, "Time to dance!" (waiting for his turn)
-
"Excellent."
Dorin starts to move, his hammer coming out of the sling and slapping into his other hand resoundingly. He spins on his heel and charges at the room where Xanos and the witch struggle, his giant arms bunching up for a massive swing at the servant who bars his way.
"By Ymir!"
-
Krag casts a spell to hold the doors at E11 and F11, praying to Ishtar for her assistance.
-
Xanos' turn
Xanos is now brightly glowing with a holy aura provided by the priestesses of Ishtar. He casts the 2nd Magnitude "Embrace of Doom" spell, and a tattoo on his right hand, and a vibration can be seen under the strange tattoo on his chest.
(2+1 ouch...) + 4Mind +2Magician = 9
9 - 3Difficulty - 4Melenarma's magical defenses = 2, the spell fails. (You don't have enough Hero Points to make it work).
Melenarma breaks free of the powerful magic that was restraining her.
Dorin's turn
Dorin, calling upon the abilities he learned when he was a child, calls forth his hidden rage that is always bubbling beneath the surface of his skin. His mouth froths and the civilized look in his eyes is filled instead with a look made entirely of savagery and barbarism. Gone is the man, and forth lurks the beast within. Dorin moves to square F9 and attempts to charge/slam into the powerfully built Nabud.
(5+1) + Strength4 + Brawl1 = 11 - 1 Nabud's Defense = 10 success!
Dorin slams brutally into Nabud, knocking him on his back. The door behind him was locked, but Dorin's mighty strength put an end to that. Shattered wood fragments spray into the room where Xanos and Melenarma duel with arcane and divine magics.
Nabud takes 5 + Strength4 + Rage2 = 11 Damage -2Armor = 9 Damage.
Dorin, still frothing at the mouth with his wild eyes, stops beside Xanos, looking down at the beautiful angry woman. As Dorin is staring at the woman before him, the powerful white aura of the Priestesses of Ishtar starts to glow in a similar way to the one covering Xanos.
Hakim's turn
Hakim draws his scimitar and prepares for the unexpected. He turns and finds a long board that can be used to lock both of the doors behind him. He lifts up the board and puts it snugly into place.
Melanarma's turn
"BLASPHEMERS! IDOLATERS! YOUR PAIN WILL NOT ONLY BE YOURS, BUT YOUR CHILDREN'S CHILDREN! I CURSE YOU AND YOUR GET FROM NOW AND HENCEFORTH IN DAGOTH'S NAME!"
Melanarma reaches with her hands quickly and attempts to touch both Xanos and Dorin's feet (since she is prone).
Her hands come close to touching them both, and then she hisses and screams wildly as her hands are hideously burned. The flesh on her hands melts in places, dripping on the floor of her personal sanctuary. The sound and the smell is horrible.
Melenarma takes 3 damage from the holy light of the Ishtar Aura, and she looks horrible and close to unconsciousness or death.
"Dagoth... help me..."
Brude's turn
Brude unsheathes his sword, and swings down violently at the beaten down body of Nabud.
(6+4) + 4Strength + 2Melee +2 Prone = 18.
Brude deals 4 + 5 = 9 damage - 2armor = 7 damage.
Nabud's head is chopped clean off of his shoulders, and the blood from his neck covers the doors and the walls nearby his bleeding corpse.
Krag's turn
Krag calls upon the power of Ishtar to reinforce the door, and the board that Hakim put in place to lock it.
(1+2) + 2Mind +2Priest = 7 (+2 blessing of Ishtar since you are a priest of hers after all) = 9 success.
The board that Hakim put in place, pulses with a gray light and seems to have moved closer to the door that it locks.
Guards' turn
The guards start to move towards their Lady, but find a securely locked door in their way. They slam against the door to no avail. Their angry screams can be heard all the way where Xanos stands over Melenarma.
Nabud's body drains of more crimson, staining the bottoms of Brude's boots red.
Initiative
Xanos 12
Dorin 11
Hakim 10
Melanarma 10
Brude 9
Krag 8
Guards 4
Damage
Melenarma (9 damage)
Nabud (dead)
Xanos (8 out of 11 damage)
See Location on Map (tell me to which square you move to if you move)
(http://www.geocities.com/baronvonharper/melenarma2.jpg)
Xanos is next.
-
Whoops... Nabud is Dead, Xanos is not (sorry big typo...)
-
Xanos snarls in disgust at the prone woman at his feet and swings the blunt side of his spear toward her. His voice contains an inhuman rasp in addition to his usual sinister whisper.
"I want her alive and able to speak, Brude. Anything else is unnecessary."
-
Dorin shudders, his knuckles white on his hammer's haft as he struggles to gain control of his rage. Through the red haze, he hears Xanos's words forbidding the witch's death, and with a growl, steps toward the altar instead, raising his weapon high.
-
Hakim, who is facing the double doors in E11 and F11, steps back a few feet (into F10). He assumes a fighting stance, brandishes his scimitar, and waits for the guards to batter down the doors. He tries to maintain an impassive expression, but a couple of beads of sweat run down his face and betray his inner worry.
"Krag, if you can answer me," the Turanian asks, "how long will that spell of yours hold the doors?"
-
Xanos' turn
Xanos tries to smash the butt of his spear into Melenarma's face.
(2+2) + Strength1 + Melee2 = 7 - 2Defense(was 3 deducted 1 for being prone) = 5 miss.
Xanos seems to be plagued with unluck, and his offensive move is deftly avoided by an angry Lady of Knives.
Dorin's turn
Frothing in his madness, and forbidden to kill the witch, Dorin leaps upon the solid black stone, and up to the Altar of Dagoth. He brings his warhammer down, and at the last moment before his weapon hits, the hairs raise on the back of his neck, and he feels a pressure on his chest as if he is far below the surface of the water, and the weapon shatters the world as it hits the altar.
Melenarma cackles hearing the noise behind her, but then she screams vividly.
(6+2) + Strength4 + Melee2 = 14 success.
3+7=10 damage
As the warhammer hits the Altar, a horrendous tearing sound can be heard inside of you and all around you. It is like no sound any of you have heard before, having elements of stones breaking, screaming, and the sounds of ripping flesh. A crack forms on the altar, and quickly extends down, cracking the large black stone that the altar was sitting on.
From the crack, red and black insects burst forth into the air, surrounding Dorin, with some getting into his mouth and nostrils. All Dorin can see is insects, but to those standing further away, the insects are taking a humanoid form.
Dorin takes 4 damage, from the biting insects that are in his mouth and nostrils, as well as those biting his face and arms.
Hakim's turn
Hakim moves.
(Krag isn't sure how long it will last, as the Gods can be fickle, but he believes it should last as long as it needs to last, unless the spell is broken).
Melenarma's turn
The pain is evident on Melenarma's face. And then something astonishing happens, as her good looks drain away like life blood from a corpse. In a matter of seconds, what was once alluring and veloptious, is now the withered hag that she actually was. It appears as if the crumple form on the floor is at least 100 years old, if not older. She still breathes, but it is evident that she is wracked with pains that have more to do with old age, than with her bleeding wounds.
Brude's turn
Brude will walk up to Melenarma with his sword dripping with Nabud's blood. Brude readies his sword for a mighty blow and says "Tell Lord Xanos what he wishes to know, while you still have breath Foul Hag!"
Initiative
Bugs/Humanoid 14
Xanos 12
Dorin 11
Hakim 10
Melanarma 10
Brude 9
Krag 8
Guards 4
Damage
Dorin (4 out of 14 damage)
Melenarma (9 damage)
Nabud (dead)
Xanos (8 out of 11 damage)
See Location on Map (tell me to which square you move to if you move)
(http://www.geocities.com/baronvonharper/melenarma3.jpg)
Krag is next.
-
Brude will walk up to Melenarma with his sword dripping with Nabud's blood. Brude readies his sword for a mighty blow and says "Tell Lord Xanos what he wishes to know, while you still have breath Foul Hag!"
-
I modified the above post, and it is Krag's turn next.
-
Xanos seems angered by the shriveled old woman's ability to still avoid and defend against him. He looks to the swarming thing at the alter and to the pounding door behind him. He snarls. His voice seems to belong to more than one creature, shifting between a fiery growl, to a steely metallic rasp and finally to a wet gurgling whisper.
"You cannot defeat me, Witch. At the moment you are an inconvenience. Should you become an annoyance, my desire for expedience will be replaced by a desire to teach you the error of your ways. I'm sure being slowly fed to your sad little god's pathetic excuse for a guardian would be quite educational."
-
Does Krag need to maintain the barrier, if so Krag will stay and maintain the prayer holding the doors, if they can be left he will go to the room where Xanos is and help there.
-
Krag's turn
Krag, realizing that the door will most likely be held in place, goes forth to stand beside Xanos. Like all the other party members that are close to the withered hag on the floor, the glow if Ishtar covers him from head to toe.
Guards
The Guards feebly try to break down the door, and it seems that Ishtar's will, is for that door to remain shut.
Bugs/Humanoid/Demon
The bugs coalesce into a disgusting humanoid form that appears to be some Demon from some unfathomable Hell.
(http://www.geocities.com/baronvonharper/MelenarmaDemon.jpg)
It reaches out with its long claws, slashing at poor Dorin (Defense 1, Armor Rating 2).
The claws deal 11 (and the armor absorbs 2 of that) so Dorin takes a painful 9 damage, and he is close to unconsciousness, as the wounds on his chest look almost fatal.
Xanos' Speaks
Xanos seems angered by the shriveled old woman's ability to still avoid and defend against him. He looks to the swarming thing at the alter and to the pounding door behind him. He snarls. His voice seems to belong to more than one creature, shifting between a fiery growl, to a steely metallic rasp and finally to a wet gurgling whisper.
"You cannot defeat me, Witch. At the moment you are an inconvenience. Should you become an annoyance, my desire for expedience will be replaced by a desire to teach you the error of your ways. I'm sure being slowly fed to your sad little god's pathetic excuse for a guardian would be quite educational."
(Does Xanos do anything else?)
Initiative
Bugs/Humanoid 14
Xanos 12
Dorin 11
Hakim 10
Melanarma 10
Brude 9
Krag 8
Guards 4
Damage
Dorin (13 out of 14 damage)
Melenarma (9 damage)
Nabud (dead)
Xanos (8 out of 11 damage)
See Location on Map (tell me to which square you move to if you move)
(http://www.geocities.com/baronvonharper/melenarma4.jpg)
Dorin in next, and is almost unconscious.
-
Hakim, realizing that something bad is happening in the inner temple, turns around just in time to see the demon materialize and slash its way into Dorin's midsection. The Turanian turns very pale and gulps. Then, his pirate's instincts taking over, he charges into the temple, waving his sword and yelling, and closes with the demon.
(Hakim will run to C4, and, if he can reach the demon from that space, slash at it with his scimitar.)
-
Dorin staggers backward, one hand loosing his hammer to clutch at his chest. He shakes his head, wavering on his feet for a moment. When he raises his eyes, though, the light of battle and rage shines through and he snarls his defiance at death, regaining his grip and hurling a sideswing meant to throw the demon from the dais.
-
Krag is going to try to pray to Ishtar so he can control of the insects.
-
Xanos' turn (retroactive)
Xanos tries to bash Melenarma in the face, and she doesn't resist. She seems broken, and she is knocked unconscious.
Dorin's turn
Dorin ignores 1 point of damage, 1 time per day. So his fighter ability is used up for the day.
Dorin swings his mighty weapon at the Demon, while lunging at it.
(4+5) + 1 Farmer Ability + 4 Strength + 2 Melee = 16
16 - 4 Defense = 12 hit.
3 + 2 + 4Strength +1 Farmer = 10 damage.
The Demon stumbles and falls prone beside Melenarma.
Hakim
Hakim charges into the fray, and swings down violently at the prone Demon.
Hakim feints (uses one of his Pirate Ability uses, and has 1 more today) and ignores half of the Demon's defense.
(2+5) + Strength1 + Melee1 + 2Demon Prone = 11
11 - 2(instead of 4) Demon's Defense = 9 hit.
Hakim deals 3 + 1 + 2(prone) = 5 damage
Initiative
Bugs/Humanoid 14
Xanos 12
Dorin 11
Hakim 10
Brude 9
Krag 8
Guards 4
Damage
Demon (15 damage)
Dorin (12 out of 14 damage)
Melenarma (9 damage, Unconscious)
Nabud (dead)
Xanos (8 out of 11 damage)
See Location on Map (tell me to which square you move to if you move)
(http://www.geocities.com/baronvonharper/melenarma5)
Brude is next.
Krag sees that the bugs have now fully turned into the Demon, so he will need to pray for something else.
-
"Die foul demon!" shouts Brude as he hacks at it savagely.
-
Krag will attack the Demon with his Mace.
-
Brude's turn
Brude swings savagely at the prone Demon.
(6+2) +4Strength +2Melee +2Prone= 16
16 - 2 (instead of 4) defense = 14 hit
Brude deals 1+6+4 = 11damage
Krag's turn
Krag tries to slash at the Demon.
(2+3) + Strength0 +Melee1 +2Prone = 8
8 - 2 (instead of 4) defense = 6 miss
Demon's turn
The Demon stands up and breathes out a horrid black smoke that emanates from it and expands into the area. It reeks, and the aura of Ishtar fizzles and dies. Everyone feels the creeping feeling caused by the breath of the Demon.
Strength Rolls:
Dorin 2+3 Strength+4 = 9 success
Xanos 5+2 +Strength1 = 8 fail
Brude 4+3 + 4Strength = 11 success
Krag 5+2 + Strength0 = 7 fail
Hakim 6+5 + Strength1 = 12 success
Xanos and Krag fall to the ground paralyzed, but they can still speak.
Xanos' turn
2+3 + Mind4 + Magician2 = 11 total.
Xanos barely utters the words of a spell and takes the Paralysys off of Krag and puts it onto Melanarma.
Initiative
Bugs/Humanoid 14
Xanos 12
Dorin 11
Hakim 10
Brude 9
Krag 8
Guards 4
Damage
Demon (26 damage)
Dorin (12 out of 14 damage)
Melenarma (9 damage, Unconscious, Paralyzed)
Nabud (dead)
Xanos (8 out of 11 damage, Paralyzed)
Dorin is next.
-
I revised the above post, Dorin is next.
-
Krag will attack the Demon again with his Mace.
-
Brude will continue chopping into the Demon as well.
-
Dorin raises his hammer directly overhead and gives a yell, leaping from the dais to smash the demon to the ground once more.
-
Dorin's Turn
Dorin raises his hammer directly overhead and gives a yell, leaping from the dais to smash the demon to the ground once more.
6+5 +4Strength +2Melee = 17!
17-4 = 13 hit.
Dorin deals 1+2 +4Strength +2Rage = 9 damage.
His wicked slash takes off one of the Demons arms, and a horde of bugs suddenly flies out of it and then fall to the ground twitching and writhing. In addition to this the Demon is once again knocked down and falls into C5.
Hakim's turn
Hakim uses his Feint Ability again, and stabs at the now Prone Demon.
6+1 +1Strength +1Melee +2Prone = 11
11-1(instead of 4, reduced to 2 prone cut in half, hehe) = 10
Hakim deals 4+1+1Strength +2Prone = 8 damage.
The viscous slice of the scimitar takes off half of the Demon's face, and more insects are vomited forth to die a gruesome death.
Brude's turn
Brude slices into the disgusting thing that needs to return to the abyss of Hell from whence it came.
6+2 +4Strength +2Melee +2Prone = 16!
16-2 =14 hit
Brude deals 6+1+4Strength+2Prone = 13 damage!
With all of the uncivilized natural hate for all things unnatural, Brude the Pict severs half of the Demons torso from the rest of its body. Bugs fill the air, but they seem like they are fleeing and in the last moments of life. The bugs sting everyone dealing 2 points of damage, but then they fall to the ground squealing like a chorus of dying infants. Many of the insects try to find solace in their old host and saturate and sting Lady Melenarma to death. The carcass of the Demon slowly bubbles and seems to sink into the ground, leaving only a thick black residue where once the abomination stood.
The bugs are too much for Dorin, who falls over unconscious from the ordeals of the battle.
Damage
Brude (2 out of 14 damage)
Demon (Dead)
Dorin (14 out of 14 damage, Unconscious)
Hakim (2 out of 11 damage)
Krag (2 out of 11 damage)
Melenarma (Dead)
Nabud (Dead)
Xanos (10 out of 11 damage, Paralyzed)
Combat is temporarily over, but the Guards have taken a new tactic. They seem to have given up on breaking in the door, and are instead slamming into the walls beside the door.
Xanos attempts to free himself from the Paralysis (I didn't add up spell energy, I'll just assume you have enough to cast this. Next time we can keep track of it better).
5+5 + Magician2 +Mind4 = 16
Xanos frees himself from the Paralysis.
-
Xanos grimly picks himself up. His skin still smokes from the spell the Lady of Knives caught him with and his jaw clenches with the effort of moving in spite of the obvious pain. His runic tattoos have lost their earlier light and seem to take on a reflective quality, like polished silver. His eyes gleam like a metallic mirror. His face is set in a mask of terrifying and patient resolve. He towers over Melanarma's body for a moment. His voice rasps with inhuman force, grinding like rough metal on metal. "Death will not save you." he says to the corpse. He sets himself in front of the shattered alter and the demon's corpse and looks toward the door.
"Brude, take the witch's head. Krag, see to the Aesir. I want him on his feet before those fools come through the wall." His voice rasps again "They will suffer for their idiocy."
His jaw clenches. he growls "No." from between gritted teeth. His tattoos and eyes slowly lose their metal gleam.
"We will let them choose their fate."
-
Brude grabs what is left of the witch's hair and pulls her head up. He then swings his sword and chops clean through her neck.
"It is done, my Lord."
Holding the witch's head dangling in his left hand and his blood and gore covered sword in his right hand, Brude moves to stand between Xanos and the door.
-
Brude used his Fighter ability to retroactively reduce damage (since I forgot to include it).
With some downtime to mend your wounds, take a swig of wine, and to catch your breath everyone heals half of the damage they've taken (as per the rules).
Damage
Dorin (7 out of 14 damage)
Hakim (1 out of 11 damage)
Krag (1 out of 11 damage)
Xanos (5 out of 11 damage)
-
Xanos takes the head from Brude and continues to wait.
-
Krag will pray to Ishtar to help heal Dorin's wounds. (2nd prayer - use Hero points if needed)
Then Krag looks to the sounds of the guards coming through the lethal walls and laughs at them, how are they going to avoid the fatal coating
-
The sounds of the walls being hacked apart slows and then stops suddenly.
-
Xanos raises an eyebrow at the Ishtarian priest's laughter and the sudden halting of the noise from the entranceway.
"Well?"
-
Hakim gingerly steps away from the altar. He wipes his brow and takes a swig from his wineskin. Demonic ichor still drips from his scimitar, but for the moment he does not clean the blade.
"My lord," the Turanian (still short of breath) says to Xanos, "it may be time for us to withdraw. Since Dorin is still injured, perhaps he could unbar yonder doors, while Brude and Krag and I stand ready to deal with any guards on the other side who may have survived the toxic walls."
-
Xanos nods.
-
With Xanos's approval, Hakim gestures for Dorin, Brude, and Krag to follow him to the barred double doors. "Dorin, if your injuries are not too great, be so good as to remove the bar, while I open the doors and see if the guards are still alive. Brude, Krag, stay close behind me and ready for trouble." He smiles thinly. "Not that any of us is ever unready for trouble."
-
Can Krag drop the spell on the door? or is that another spell?
-
Brude flourishes his sword and laughs, "I am full of trouble! And woe to all those who stand before us!"
-
Krag rests his hands upon Dorin and calls for Ishtar to heal him, and does some mundane wrapping and cleaning of the wound as well.
Dorin is healed 2 points by the bandage.
4+1+ Mind2 + Druid2 = 9 success.
Dorin is healed up the rest of the way by Krag's prayer.
Krag has 1 more prayer before he must return to the Temple of Ishtar to ask for more from his goddess.
Dorin lifts the bar with Brude's help, and the bloated bodies of the guards lie dead on the other side. It seems in their anguish to rescue their Lady, that they forgot about the poison on the walls...
-
Xanos looks impassively at the carnage around him.
"Hakim, lead us out. There is nothing more to be gained from this place."
-
Dorin heaves the bar to one side, and fingers the bandage across his chest, chuckling heartily.
"It seems that following you may prove to be a tale worth telling, Xanos."
-
Xanos begins making his way down the stairs.
"In the past I have been told similar things before by other Aesir. Like them I assume your tales will double the size of the monsters and leave out the parts where you end up unconscious on the floor."
-
Brude leads the way, ready to finish off any guards who show signs of life.
-
All the guards are now deceased, and the party has no trouble leaving Melenarma's compound.
-
Xanos puts the head in a sack and raises his hood as they get back within view of others.
"Baths, Hakim. Then back to the Inn."
-
Before following, Dorin barks a laugh, and says in good humor, "I might at that, wizard. If you would prefer, next time I could stand aside and let the demon have at you instead."
Strangely, the Aesir seems in much better spirits after the fight than before, as if some tension has been lifted. His eyes sparkle with mirth, never mind how near Death came to taking him.
-
Dorin's sister meets up with the group as they return from inside. She nods as she sees you all, and smiles grimly when she sees a bloody bag.
-
Before leaving the temple, Hakim pauses to wipe the demon's ichor from his blade, and drops the cloth that he uses for the task (now blackened and smoking slightly) onto the body of one of the dead guards. He then strokes his beard for a moment, thinking of an appropriate bathhouse for the party to patronize.
After a moment, the Turanian says, "My lord, I recommend we repair to Batu Kassar's Bath House, in the Merchant District. The establishment is clean and the master of the house is discreet, which in our case is an important consideration."
-
Xanos nods.
"Lead the way."
-
Brude will follow Hakim, making sure no one in the crowd gets too close to Xanos.
-
While walking through the streets of the Wicked City, you overhear the scattered rumors and conversations of several people talking about the possibility of the city being attacked. Something about unified tribes or something, but it is hard to hear with the throng of half naked people in the streets.
-
Krag enjoys the sights of half naked ladies on the streets, and maybe some that are even more scantily clad.
...as he follows to the baths.
-
Dorin, with a flickered glance at Rannveig, attempts to look disapprovingly at all the bared flesh around them, but can't quite hide a leer or two.
-
Xanos walks with his head bowed, obscured by the darkness of his robe, completely ignoring the displays on the streets. He speaks softly to the group.
"With our current appearance and our new companion we are uncharacteristically obtrusive and bound to draw eyes. Someone will be wanting to know what transpired at the witch's temple and may be tracking us already. Keep your eyes open behind us, but be subtle. Hakim, when we get to the baths look out for one of the Dust Children begging outside. If they are there, give them two coins. One for themselves, and the other for Misty. Tell them that I'd like to see her this evening. Also, arrange for us to exit the bath house from a less public door than the one we will enter through, and plan a route that takes us back to the Inn with as few eyes on us as possible."
He looks to Rannveig,
"While we take to our bathing the attendants will see that our clothes cleaned. The contents of this sack, as well as a few other personal effects are not for prying eyes. I'd like you to look after them while we are indisposed. Once Brude is finished he will relive you so that you may enjoy a bath as well."
-
Hakim listens carefully to Xanos's directive. He nods to acknowledge his orders, and continues to lead the party to Batu Kassar's. While walking, he estimates how large a bribe will be needed to secure an unobtrusive back-door exit from the bathhouse for the party. He also maps (in his head) the lowest-profile back-street route from the bathhouse to the inn.
-
Rannveig smiles and nods, taking the sack in hand.
Dorin frowns, though, and speaks up. "I will remain with her until Brude returns, I think. None of us should be alone in this city, and particularly you, sister."
She turns her head to glare at him as they walk, and slashes her hand dismissively, laying her palm on the hilt of her blade.
He shakes his head, with a touch of amusement. "Swordswoman you may be now, but you've been my kin for longer, and I will not allow you to be lost to me again."
She sniffs, and raises her head haughtily, turning away from him. Dorin chuckles softly, watching her for a moment with unhidden pride in his eyes.
-
I need to pay a visit to the temple before we get to the hotel. Any one care to join me after bath?
-
"Meditation in a Garden of Ishtar may speed the recovery of expended energies. I will accompany you."
-
After washing quickly, Brude is ready to accompany Xanos to the Garden of Ishtar. He will keep an eye on the crowd on the way there.
-
Batu Kassar's bath house in the merchant district proves to be exactly what Hakim said they were.
Hakim easily gets some private bathing rooms for the party, and with a smaller than expected bribe, a back exit is found for the group.
Tiles at the bottom of the pool shimmer up at you, with textile portraits of nubile women, and scenes of city at night from one of the outlying hills perhaps. The walls are covered in crimson fabrics that are blown from a nearby window, the provides a nice breeze.
It doesn't take long before the party feels better, and has washed the sweat and blood of battle off of them. Leaving the stained rags behind for the washwomen to collect, the party leaves out the back door of the establishment.
It doesn't take long to return to the Temple of Ishtar, and the meditative gardens are behind the temple. There is a small altar near several ancient trees that will suffice for Krag's prayers, anointments, and other religious rituals needed to please the ivory goddess.
It takes Krag roughly an hour to perform all of the rights, and during this time non of the priestesses bother your small group. It seems they all must be inside the temple still.
During Krag's prayers, one of the dust is spotted and told the message Xanos wanted for them. What one of the dust was doing in the Temple district is a curious thing, but one that can't be answered as the small child leaves as quickly as the message is delivered.
"I will tell Misty, and she shall meet you. I believe she has some message of some great importance to tell you sir."
It isn't long before the party is standing outside of the Inn.
(I glossed over some things, feel free to fill in the details).
-
Xanos waits for Brude to enter and glance around before striding in himself. As he walks deeper into the Inn he tells Hakim "Have food and drink brought for our table. A cup of hot water for myself." He finds a table in the corner near the stairs, seats himself and takes up a position familiar to the group, with the exception of Dorin and Rannveig , hands loosely clasped before him, deep in his cowl, and still as stone.
-
Once Xanos is seated, Brude will sit to his right, keeping an eye on everyone in the inn.
-
Dorin finds himself relaxing a bit in the more familiar confines of the Inn. All the world over, there are some things that remain the same, and good food, good drink, and perhaps a comely serving maid or two are never unwelcome. Setting his hammer to lean on the wall within reach, Dorin takes a seat and flings his feet to the table with a crash, sighing contentedly as he settles in to wait for the meal.
-
Hakim claps his hands to summon a serving maid. "Roast boar with apples and potatoes, and wine fortified with spirits, for myself and my companions," he orders. "For my lord here" - he gestures toward Xanos and bows slightly - "hot water, preferably in a jeweled cup."
-
After a few moments lost in thought Xanos quietly retrieves a small wooden box from the Dahouti-style bag he carries behind him hanging from his belt. It is seemingly without hinges or latches, yet he opens it with a tilt and a practiced twist. It slides open, rather than lifting.
From within he retrieves a small mortar and pestle and a few silk and leather pouches. He quickly measures some sharp, but not unpleasant-smelling powders and herbs from the bag into the bowl and begins to grind them. Once finished he taps the ground powder into a strange metal device that looks like a perforated metal sphere attached to a pair of handles which curve, cross each other and connect. With a squeeze the sphere splits to take the powder, closing again when he releases it. He puts everything away inside the box, slides it closed and places the strange metal object atop it.
Once finished he looks around the table.
"You did well today Dorin. I suspect our group would have been much harder pressed without your presence."
-
"And your sister isn't half bad to look at!" says Brude as he looks up from his several plates of food.
-
Bastich strolls into the inn, cleaning a knife as he dose. Making it obvious that he is wiping blood off the blade. He is smiling smugly.
"so..."
He looks up towards Xanos
"That man is regretting the day he crossed our paths."
Hes acting as menacingly as possable, perhaps a bit overly. He scans the room as he talks.
"So how have things been going here. Has everyone been-"
Then his eye comes upon the bartender.
"Holy crap that man is ugly! jeesh........ eh, I mean, Could I get a drink?"
-
A lusty healthy bar wench comes from behind the bar after a time with some of the aforementioned foods and drinks. Her hips sway as if she was a dancer, and perhaps she is, but right now it's drink and food she's serving.
"Sorry m'lords, but we don't have any cups with jewels in 'em. Best we got was a silver mug I shined to its highest luster. I hope tis well enough for your likin'."
The bartender looks up and down at the new comer [Gabboge] and shakes his head.
"Sure, I got drinks. You want what the rest of your associates is havin?"
The common room is mostly vacated, but there are some laborers drinking away their measly pay with the help of a dark skinned jewel of a woman who seems to be collecting lots of tips for her company with the men.
-
Dorin raises an eyebrow at Brude amusedly, then turns his gaze to Xanos, not moving from his relaxed pose. "That you might have been. I've seen a strange thing or two in my travels, and haven't met anything yet that can stand up to this," patting his hammer's handle like one might a faithful pet. Then the food arrives, and he falls to with gusto, putting away food like only a long-time soldier can. He pauses only long enough to eye Bastich for a moment, sees that the rest of the party seems to accept him, and continues on, taking a hearty swig of the drink.
Rannveig, seated near Xanos, looks up from a mouthful of apple to fling a bit of potato at Brude good-naturedly. She seems less amused than her brother, but more or less used to the way men talk about her.
-
Bastich sits down at the table. He puts his feet right up on it. He scans everyone, pointing his finger out as he goes.
"know you, know you.... and you..... now you."
his finger stops at Dorin but steadily sways towards Rannveig.
"now we haven't had a chance to talk. My names is Bastich..... I can see your held speechless by my charm. Perhaps we can get to "know" each other later... if you get my meaning...... you know......"
He raises his eyebrow perhaps an inch higher then a human being should. Then he raises his hand to his mouth as if to whisper to Xanos but making no real attempt to be quiet.
"Hey Xanos, you sure do know how to pick em! Maby you could let me... eh... barrow her later?"
-
"Hey Xanos, you sure do know how to pick em! Maby you could let me... eh... barrow her later?"
Xanos takes the cup without a word and arches an eyebrow at the brazen little man.
"If you can get past her brother's hammer and her sword, you can likely do whatever you wish." he says humorlessly. "Have you recovered my money then?"
As he speaks he puts the metal device into the cup and pours water over it. Pungent steam begins rising from it as the concoction within begins to steep.
-
"If you can get past her brother's hammer and her sword, you can likely do whatever you wish." he says humorlessly. "Have you recovered my money then?"
Bastich drops a bag on the table, it makes a modest thud.
"Who do you take me for why of course I did!"
He looks over to the girl
"Well well, brother eh? Thats good I though you were her... you know... well."
Bastich is fully displaying his complete lack of tact and his inability toward innuendo.
-
"Who do you take me for why of course I did!"
Xanos takes a sip of his drink and pushes the bag to Raenvieg without looking at her. As he retracts his hand he brings his hand up before him with the back of his hand facing Bastich. Somehow, caught between each of his fingers is a tiny gem. He looks at them as he speaks to Bastich.
"I believe I promised you her price as payment for your services."
-
Rannveig, seated near Xanos, looks up from a mouthful of apple to fling a bit of potato at Brude good-naturedly. She seems less amused than her brother, but more or less used to the way men talk about her.
Brude catches the potato, says "I thank you for fine gift!" and tosses it into his mouth, with a hint of a grin.
After Bastich's comments, Brude's eyes harden as he keeps a close eye on him.
-
As he retracts his hand he brings his hand up before him with the back of his hand facing Bastich. Somehow, caught between each of his fingers is a tiny gem. He looks at them as he speaks to Bastich.
"I believe I promised you her price as payment for your services."
"I got that and a little more from him, so.... keep the change."
After Bastich's comments, Brude's eyes harden as he keeps a close eye on him.
Bastich notices brude's eyes land leans back into his seat, Chuckles a bit then looks at Brude.
"You don't trust me do you?"
-
Brude snorts and says "I am not paid to trust people, especially the likes of you. My job is to cut off people who are bothering Lord Xanos, preferably at their legs. Feel like dancin' stumpy?"
-
Xanos Other4 + Mind3 + 6+3 = 16 success.
The wenches, and several of the laborers keep a wide berth around your group. Some of the laborers change seats at the possibility of violence erupting.
The bartender has a grimace on his face, and an angry scowl.
-
"See, right there is the problem! Because I'm the most trustworthy guy here. Xanos over there knows it too. I'm not stupid, I see him sizing me up. He knows."
Bastich grabs a pouch from his side, pulls it up to the table.
"Trust is always conditional and my conditions are always the easyest. I want payment....... thats about it, you can throw in women to sweeten the deal but as it stands as long as you pay me I'll do what you say."
He points to Dorin.
"Say Xanos came between you and the safty of your sister, what would you do? Hmmm? How long would your bond of trust last?"
He closes his eyes, confident he knows the answer so he motions back over to brude.
"I have no such ties, I have no such conditions. Therefor I'm the most trustworthy."
-
"See, right there is the problem! Because I'm the most trustworthy guy here. Xanos over there knows it too. I'm not stupid, I see him sizing me up. He knows....I have no such ties, I have no such conditions. Therefor I'm the most trustworthy."
"There is a certain truth in what he says. Unlike most, Bastich does not pretend to be anything more or less than what he is. So long as one does not dig too deep one would not be disappointed with his results. For example, Bastich did, in fact, retrieve my money from the slavers, exactly as he agreed."
Xanos sips a bit more of his strange drink as he gaves into the space between he and Bastich, not quite looking at anyone or anything.
"Unfortunately, if one looks, they begin to find questions that do not match with the apparent truth of how the task was accomplished. Such as the fact that the blood that dots your clothes and your cleaning rag did not come from those slavers, nor from any other man."
Xanos sets his mug on the table and laces his fingers togeather, finally looking at Bastich.
"So the question then becomes: What does retrieving money from a slaver have to do with late night animal butchery? It's not as if you would be trying to trick me into believing you had engaged in violence while on your errand. That would hardly be the action of one who prides themselves on being trustworthy."
-
"The task of obtaining the money was for you. Looking like a bad ass was for me. Besides, the late night animal butchery helps me pratice some of my 'other' crafts."
Bastich pull some jerky from his pouch and begins to eat some.
"but more important then any of that is, when do I get that damn drink I ordered!"
-
Now that it looks like the violence will not erupt, the waitress returns with another round of drinks and freshly prepared warm food. She leaves just as quickly as she arrived however, with a look of slight fear on her face.
-
"Ah thank you!"
he takes a dink.
"Some service here eh?...... now back to what I was saying. Xanos, is my splattering pigs blood on my shirt and cleaning my knife any diffrent then what our friend here is doing.
Bastich accusing finger points towards Brude.
"The whole 'My lord Xanos' bit he has going is rather funny. Do you honestly think his loyalty really runs that deep? I doubt he is any more loyal then I am. I submit that I am more honest then this man is. I may pretend but it's superficial, he pretends about things that make me worry about how loyal he really is."
Bastich leans forward and starts to enjoy his drink as well as start flirting with the ladies in the bar.
-
"The whole 'My lord Xanos' bit he has going is rather funny. Do you honestly think his loyalty really runs that deep? I doubt he is any more loyal then I am. I submit that I am more honest then this man is. I may pretend but it's superficial, he pretends about things that make me worry about how loyal he really is."
Xanos smiles lazily at his cup, a rare relaxation slowly settling into him. He takes a long slow breath and replies.
"Today Brude stood between myself and a Demon." Xanos says simply. "That kind of loyalty is not bought. Service to me is dangerous. I demand much. I do not explain myself and I do not slow the pace of my goals for incompetence or doubt. I have learned that I cannot rely on simple bonds such as blood or faith for loyalty. It is how I live up to the standards of Brude's ideologies which keeps him in my service. To most Picts, any master who would compromise such things to accommodate their servants is not a master worth serving, and Brude is a particularly proud Pict. I satisfy his pride. So long as i continue to do so, Brude's loyalty will never be in question."
Xanos pauses for a drink, as if deciding weather or not to speak further, then continues.
"The relationship between a master and a servant is never what it seems. It is always ever the master who is truly the servant. Those who wish to be served must become what their servants desire them to be. No creature will serve a master they do not believe is worthy of them. Each of those around this table seeks a master worth serving, and their expectations fall to me. Brude needs to serve one worthy of him, and so I must be powerful."
He gestures to Hakim,
Hakim desires the world's attention, but never it's judgement or control. For him I become a spotlight illuminating his talents and a safety net protecting him from the wrath of those he may upset during his exploits. He seeks appreciation, and so I must be grateful.
Then Krag,
"Krag seeks a treasure to be used to bring glory to his goddess and to prove to his doubters that a man has just as much place among Her ranks as a woman. He needs a hand to push him back towards his goal when he loses his way, so I ask his assistance in ways which remind him of who he is. He seeks wisdom, and so i must be wise."
Then to Raenvieg,
"Raenvieg seeks validation. Her life has been full of those who do not see a person where she stands. Only an object. A symbol to be protected, a treasure to be taken, a tool to be used, a commodity to be sold. A means to an end. She needs someone to convince her of her worth, and so I demand tasks of her that force her to adapt. She seeks to learn, and so I must teach."
Then to Dorin,
"Dorin, by comparison to his sister, desires to be seen as more than a man. He needs symbols to devote himself to and goals to triumph over. Yesterday his sister represented those ideals. In the days to come he will find that she is no longer his to champion. I suspect he will turn to me for what he needs, and I shall become his quest-giver and the chronicler of his story. He seeks a legend to become part of, so I will be legendary."
Finally he settles his measuring gaze on Bastich letting the full intensity of his pale stare bore into the man.
"It is only you who's true motives have yet to be revealed, Bastich."
He spreads his hands invitingly,
"So tell me. What kind of lord shall I become for you?"
-
Batich, sits back in his seat, swirls his mug around and then stares back with a stare.
"Sometimes a man doesn't need motives. I have never said I had one. I go were the wind blows me. But now that you mention it I guess I should have a guiding star eh? Perhaps I should make or adopt a code to live by, something about honer? Or maby decide to avenge some gross injustice? Or perhaps I could start a search for some sort of family? I have never had one of those."
His eyes narrow on Xanos.
"Do you really want to play the part of my dad? Or pehaps a brother?"
He stares back into his glass.
"No, thats silly. You can be everything for everyone els, but to me all you need to be is an employer. But don't let that worry you...... Not like there is anything els in my life that outranks that. So keep bringing me payment and I'll be perfectly trustfull."
-
xanos smirks slightly.
"...and so I must be wealthy."
Xanos makes a low rumbling chuckle in his chest as a small gem appears again and dances through his large hands.
"Though you betray yourself already. I offered you money only a moment ago, and you turned it down. Not quite the actions of the mercenary you claim to be, but no matter. Money is transient. You shall have it, and once it's luster begins to fade your deeper desires will surface."
The gem rolls across the table and rocks to a halt directly between them.
"If it is wealth you desire, so be it, though should you demand more for your services than the others in my employ, I will have no choice but to make you earn it."
-
Hakim, after watching Bastich and Brude's confrontation through slitted eyes, listens attentively to Xanos's soliloquy, drinking his wine and saying nothing. He briefly admires Xanos's prestidigitation with the gemstone, then turns from the table to flag down one of the serving maids.
"I believe my companions and I would enjoy some light music," the Turanian says to the wench. "Subdued and purely instrumental, for now, though we might want something more lively later. If there are any minstrels in your proprietor's employ, bring them hither. If not, perhaps you know of some who work nearby and can be enticed here."
-
Brude is quiet as he starts digging back into his food, but still keeps an eye on Bastich and the rest of the room.
-
Krag fills his third plate and finishes his fifth ale. He is enjoying the good food, and looks around the room for some eye candy, but now he must settle for a few serving wenches.
Krag also longs for the forest and a chance to get back to nature, where he feels closest to the Goddess Ishtar.
-
Two gentleman are approached by one of the waitresses, and they bring their guitars to some seats in the corner of the room. They play a slow intricate song that seems very difficult to play because of the arrangements of the notes. The song continually increases in pace until it is a wonder to behold their musicianship. The song slows down once again at the end, and one of the waitresses stands in front of them to sing a song of praise to Dagoth (but only the learned would know that, as it is sung in a strange dialect of some half-forgotten language).
-
Xanos sighs in exasperation at the serving girl's song and turns to Krag and Hakim.
"Is the Cult of the Dreamer particularly strong in this city?"
-
Everyone can give me a Mind + Appropriate Career (anything you think would work for knowing about an ancient diety) with a difficulty of 9. You guys can roll the dice, that is fine with me.
Anyone that succeeds knows a smattering of knowledge that can be found in this post:
http://eonsreach.com/gaspforum/index.php?topic=2164.msg38115#msg38115
There are falsehoods mixed with truth, but that is how rumors and knowledge sometimes are.
While the group is pondering the god Dagon, or Dagoth, the young leader of the Dust comes into the inn, and stands beside Brude, looking at Xanos.
"Sir, I have acquired the whereabouts of a certain thief and merchant named Sazak that is said to have several rare and precious gems and artifacts. The problem is, that he just left the city and is heading back to his compound in the nearby hills where the Kezankian hillmen live. It is said that he has some favor with them, and lives almost like a king there. I talked to another merchant, and overheard more people, talking about how he comes into the city to sell items, and then returns to the hills. All of the merchants are jealous of the items he procures for himself, and many think he has the hillmen helping him to acquire them from various ancient ruins in the hills."
"I hope this is the information that you requested."
-
"I hope this is the information that you requested."[/color]
"You are a most resourceful youth." Xanos replies and hands Brude a coin for her.
He turns to the others. "I know nothing of these hillmen. Is this enough information to find them and this Merchant?"
-
The resourceful youth nods, and heads back out into the dusty streets of Shadizar.
The music has changed, and is now a slow and sad song about the death of a beloved princess, betrayed by one of her secret lovers. In the end the secret lover dies at the hands of the princess' betrothed husband.
-
Dorin listens carefully to Xanos's speech, grinning as he turns from person to person...but stops when the conversation turns to himself. He lowers his feet from the table and stares into his drink, contemplative for once.
Rannveig simply nods once, and smiles.
-
Hakim puts down his wine goblet, strokes his beard thoughtfully, and tries to recall whether he has ever heard anything about the Kezankian hillmen from other merchants in Shadizar.
(See OOC thread.)
-
Hakim knows that the Kezankian hill people are known to be violent and fractured into many tribes. They were once united under the Basrakan Imalla - a holy man among the hill tribes of the Kezankian Mountains, intent on uniting the tribes and leading a religious war against the unbelievers.
When Basrakan Imalla died the hill tribes went back to their tribal rivalries. They were devastating when united, but as a divided people they don't bother outsiders much.
Though recently, the party has overheard rumors of the hill people possibly becoming united again to attack the Wicked City.
-
"You have done well, there is honor in your service to Lord Xanos" says Brude as he places the coin into the girl's hand.
-
"So this guy is a merchant eh? Why don't we offer to sell him something valuable? You know, lure him out so we can stab him in the back?"
Bastich continues then to flirt with the other women in the bar.
-
"So this guy is a merchant eh? Why don't we offer to sell him something valuable? You know, lure him out so we can stab him in the back?"
"There are five ways of getting what you want. I find it is usually prudent to start by simply asking." Xanos says as he cleans up his tea.
"The Hillmen concern me far more than the merchant does."
Xanos looks to Hakim, who seems to be searching his memory.
-
Noticing that he has drawn Xanos's gaze, Hakim stops his wool-gathering. "My lord, the Kezankians dwell midst the foothills and lower peaks of the mountains which bear their name. They are primitive and quarrelsome, though they usually prefer feuding with one another to fighting with strangers. Many long for the return of their prophet, the Basrakan Imalla, who will unite the tribes and lead them in holy war against the wicked infidels of Shadizar."
He takes a sip of wine. "There are rumors, of late, that this may already have occurred, that the Kezankians may be gathering to attack the city at this very moment. If so, they will be alert for any spies who may sally forth from Shadizar to learn their numbers and armaments. If we wish to travel to the Kezankians' fastnesses, we must take care."
The Turanian pauses to think another moment. Then he smiles. "Perhaps, Lord Xanos, if a journey to Kezank country is in order, we might travel in disguise? Perhaps even in the raimant and with the accouterments of merchants, bearing weapons for sale to the hillmen? This would be less likely to draw the ire of the Kezankians, but would draw the attention of Sazak, and perhaps lure him to us."
-
Xanos nods a s Hakim speaks.
"You are a known merchant. Traveling in the hills would be dangerous but potentially quite profitable. You would need a sponsor to cover your additional costs, as well as able protection. I would be most willing to sponsor you in return for help tracking down a lost artifact. As luck would have it, I already have a group or able mercenaries in my employ."
Xanos glances around the table at the rest of the dangerous-looking company.
"A deception that is no deception at all. You are subtle, Turanian."
-
Dorin tilts his head quizically for a moment, and then barks a laugh. "A fine plan! And a place I have yet to travel, as well." His grin fades as quickly as it came, with a concerned glance at Rannveig. "Perhaps I might find another clue to my own search as we go."
Rannveig frowns, her eyes sad as she lays a hand on her brother's shoulder comfortingly. Her mouth opens once, then closes quickly, the memory of words still difficult to forget. Instead, she simply makes a wordless noise, low and sad.
-
Hakim smiles his thin-lipped smile. "Thank you, my lord. It should be a simple matter to purchase mules, provisions, and a stock of second-grade spears and swords for our 'customers.' We might even consider hiring another associate or two,* who can masquerade as assistant merchants."
* OOC: If I recall correctly, Tim mentioned that someone else might be interested in joining the game at this point; this would be a suitable entry point.
-
Xanos nods.
"Greater numbers would decrease our chances of being accosted. In the morning, see about the supplies you need and talk with anyone you would trust to join us in this endeavor. Take Brude with you. His intuition for trustworthiness has yet to disappoint. I have a conversation to have with our friend here-"
he says gesturing towards the sack on the floor next to his chair.
"- and it may take some time to prepare for. Krag, if you are willing to lend aid it may save us time. Bastich, tail Hakim and Brude. I suspect our actions have been noticed at this point. I'd like to know by who. If surveilling parties reveal themselves take note of them. Do not reveal yourself and follow if they go elsewhere."
-
I have a conversation to have with our friend here-"
he says gesturing towards the sack on the floor next to his chair.
Bastich raises an eyebrow.
"Whats in the bag?"
-
Bastich raises an eyebrow.
"Whats in the bag?"
"The severed head of a person who asked questions they didn't really need the answers to".
-
"The severed head of a person who asked questions they didn't really need the answers to".
"Look, I'm just saying I have a few things I have learned to do over time. One of them might have to do with........ well, the dead. Well, take this for example."
He pulls out a deck of cards.
"Anyone want to see a little trick?"
He shuffles the cards, then spreads them across the table. He has someone pick a random card and then fold the rest of the deck up and puts it back into his pocket.
"Ok, now show that card to everyone around you but don't let me see it."
He makes a big show of avoiding looking. The card is the 7 of Hearts.
"everyone got it? Now watch carefully."
He takes out his knife and cuts open his palm, then slams his palm down onto the able with a thud, the blood appears to be trickling out below his palm onto the table. He waits a few seconds... and then wipes his hand down the table smearing his blood along the way, in the smear is the clear shape of a card with the 7 of hearts in it.
"Taaa daaah! Wasent that amazing?"
-
Dorin snorts, unimpressed. "Parlor tricks." He raises an eyebrow to Xanos. "This is the company you usually keep?"
-
"give me a dead cat and I can show you something a lot more intresting"
Bastich is compleatly serious.
-
"This is the company you usually keep?"
Xanos does not turn to Dorin as he addresses him. He is looking sharply at Bastich. Not with surprise, but with a new weight, as if finding a new use for a familiar tool.
"The right parlor tricks in the right situation can change the fate of the world, though I would guess that ones involving blood divinations at the dinner table are not so grandiose. Being that I've seen drunken Aesir bravely put blades through their own hands to prove their feast hall boasts, I'm surprised that you are the one to comment on Bastich's distasteful manners."
He finally turns to him with patient authority in his voice.
"As for the company I keep, social grace falls far behind the ability to be useful to my plans. You are not in my employ. Nothing keeps you here should you decide you are bothered by anyone in my company."
He turns back to Bastich.
"As for you, I'd rather we weren't animating corpses within sight of any civilization we care to remain unaccosted by. Tomorrow I still want you keeping an eye on the others. If the knowledge I seek is beyond the skills of Krag and I, I will let you know."
-
Krag after finishing a fourth helping and swigs the last of the ale in front of him.
To Xanos -- I would be glad to do what I can to help with the head
To Hakim -- I have some mercahnt experience if you need an assistant.
Krag complements the chef with a loud belch. Even the musicians miss a beat in their song.
-
Brude stands up waiting to follow Hakim out.
-
Hakim rises from the table, makes sure the serving maid and musicians are properly paid, and says to Xanos, "My lord, Brude, Krag and I will be going forth to hire mules and purchase supplies, including - oh, say, two dozen each spears, swords, and bucklers for our supposed customers. We would of course welcome your company, but would also understand if you preferred to wait for us elsewhere."
-
"I had expected you would wish to wait until morning. It seems I underestimated your resourcefulness. I shall remain. These tasks do not require my direct attention, and I beleive I had promised Raenvieg a lesson in letters this evening."
Xanos stands
"I shall retire, though any of you have leave to disturb me should you deem a mater to be of sufficient importance."
To Raenvieg he says "You may join me when you have finished your meal."
With that he picks up his wooden box, but still no food, and begins toward the stairs.
-
Krag follows Xanos to the bottom of the stair,
Krag says to only Xanos --
"I noticed you do not seem yourself lately. Is everything allright? anything I can.... You also mentioned you want mem to help with somthing. "
-
"I noticed you do not seem yourself lately. Is everything allright? anything I can.... You also mentioned you want mem to help with somthing. "
Xanos stops abruptly, as if briefly frozen in place. His head is turned towards the shadows of the stairwell, so only Krag sees the momentary flash of panic flash through his eyes. A fraction of a second later, his composure is back. He turns slightly towards Krag.
"It is said that the hardest patterns to notice are the ones we ourselves repeat. The same may be true of change. Please describe the nature of the differences you have noticed."
-
Hakim will lead Brude and Krag out of the tavern and toward the city's market district. "We plan to purchase 24 spears, two dozen short swords, and as many bucklers for the hill tribesman," the Turanian says to his companions. "I believe* I know a merchant who may have that many arms for sale. His prices aren't cheap, but he's not likely to give us any difficulty about how much merchandise we want, the way a weaponsmith might."
"After we determine how much is available for us to buy," Hakim continues, "we'll know how many mules we need, and how much fodder, and - perhaps - how many provisions. We should remain together until then."
* Presumably, this is a Mind + Merchant roll, unless there's a reasonably well-known weapons merchant in the city.
-
To Xanos "There's' nothing specific, that I can list -- just a gut feeling ... er hunch. Also you mentioned that you desired my aid for something ... did you want to work later tonight, or in the morning?"
Krag sees Hakim and Brude go to the door and motions for them to wait a minute, while he talks with Xanos.
-
To Xanos "There's' nothing specific, that I can list -- just a gut feeling ... er hunch. Also you mentioned that you desired my aid for something ... did you want to work later tonight, or in the morning?"
"I see. This is a matter of some concern to me. If my behavior becomes unpredictable or contrary to my usual nature, please take note of it. Do not tell me in the moment. Wait until I seem to be more myself. As for the the ritual I have planned, I will need some time to mentally prepare myself. Please, relax and enjoy your meal. I will tell you tomorrow when I will be ready."
-
"Kay, Xanos -- have a good night then, I will see you in the morning"
Krag crosses the room to leave with Brude and Hakim.
-
Xanos disappears up the stairs, looking both concerned and determined.
-
* Presumably, this is a Mind + Merchant roll, unless there's a reasonably well-known weapons merchant in the city.
No roll needed, Hakim has been a merchant in good standing, and knows his way around the market place. He is familiar with a merchant named Mhasma that could adaquately take care of the groups needs. With Xanos' wealth, the items needed should be easy to obtain.
It isn't long before the group arrives at Mhasma's booth.
Mhasma is a dirty looking fellow, but it seems that he sweats a lot and the dust of the square sticks to him because of it. He has long black hair that is pulled back, and drapes down his back. He is wearing loose flowing white robes, that once again are sweat stained and dirty. He is missing several teeth, but they look like they were lost due to violence and not decay. He has large bulging dark eyes that seem to drink in every detail around him. He is probably of Argossean or Corinthian heritage, or perhaps a mixing of the two.
"Ah... Hakkimms, that's your name correct... yes? Would you be... interested in some... hmm... wares perhaps... yes? I have some items you could... ah... resale for a nice profit outside the city. I have some nice collected... um... hair from the priestesses of Ashtoreth. Much protection and fertility is said to be a blessing of the hair. Weapons, and some used armor perhaps...? What brings you here my fine... um... gentlemen?"
-
"Esteemed brother Mhasma," Hakim says to the merchant, "it has been too long since last we spoke. My colleagues and I" - he nods towards Krag and Brude - "are interested in purchasing a quantity of arms, perhaps as many as two dozen short swords and as many spears, if the price and quality are right. As for armor, we aren't looking for anything too heavy, but if you have any helmets or bucklers, I should like to consider buying them."
OOC: Is there such a thing as a coffee house in Shadizar? It strikes me that that's the sort of place Hakim would go to discuss business with a fellow merchant. (Maybe because I associate Turanians with Arabs.)
-
Mhasma
"Perhaps this would be better discussed over some hot tea. There is a local shop that specializes in different flavors, and they have other rare food items that are quite tasty. I believe I can help you, and if you plan on selling the items outside of the city, I'm sure we both can come to an arrangement. I have some particularly warm items that I wouldn't mind parting with, if you know what I mean..."
Mhasma closes his booth, and starts heading to the local shop he referred to.
The shop is only a few blocks away, and it seems like a nice place to sit down, with tables that are far apart from one another, and separated by thick blankets and walls to cut down on the noise.
Mhasma orders 10 cups of very different tasting tea, and some other rare sweet, and spicy foods that aren't the usual fair for Shadizar. He motions for you all to take what you want, free of charge.
"Now, about those items. Yes, I have a good supply of some items that associates of mine have acquired. If you are selling them outside the city, I can offer twice what you want for the price of what you expect to pay for half of your order. So a large amount of goods for 1/4 the going rate. Of course, if you are detained by any official, I hope the code between Merchants would stand, and my name would never come up... They have a certain mark on the handle, that can be used to identify them. I was going to have the mark removed, but the work to do so would increase their price, and take time. So what do you say Hakim, feel like taking a problem off of my hands, to solve a need you have?"
-
Krag accepts the closest warm beverage placed near him and tastes some. As he is pretty full from the ale and food he just devoured, but does not want to be perceived as rude.
To Mhasma "Is this a royal mark on the handle or more of a mere nobleman's? "
Quietly communicated to Hakim - (use a spell to whisper this as if close to Hakim's ear even though they are across the table from each other)
Aside To Hakim "Regardless I don't think the handles will present a problem, for X"
-
Brude will sit next to Hakim, keeping an eye on Mhasma and everyone else in the shop through a gap between the blankets. He does not touch any of the food or drink.
-
Hakim eats a few choice sweetmeats, and drinks a cup of strong-smelling tea, while Mhasma describes his wares and their overly-reasonable price. He nods once in response to Krag's silent question, then says, "Brother Mhasma, your offer is agreeably made, and I am ever willing to help an esteemed fellow merchant in need. But my associate's question is, alas, a pressing one, for it speaks to the risk we incur in buying and selling the weapons. What is the nature of the mark you describe? If it belongs to a nobleman, or a distant kingdom, our risk will be much lower than if, say, it belongs to the Temple of Krom or the the Lord Protector of Shadizar."
-
Mhasma
"Well, the mark actually belongs to the temple guards of Mitra... They are a a prickly lot, and some local thieves ransacked a local temple in the middle of the night. They sold me the weapons and armor, and I gave them a low rate because of the risk. I had a buyer, but he was arrested for other such offenses. So there it is, do you want them or not? If you want some other pricier weapons and armor, that is fine, but it will be regularly priced."
-
Hakim strokes his beard for a moment, then smiles, as if thinking of something amusing. "We will take the weapons and armor from the Temple of Mitra, and, if you have them, another dozen each regular short swords, spears, and bucklers, to act as camouflage in case someone manages to stop us." He finishes his tea. "And we will make an anonymous donation to Lord Mitra upon our return to Shadizar, to set matters right with him."
-
Mhasma
"Done, and Done. I knew you would see things clearly. I can have the items delivered to where you are, or if you would prefer we can go pick them up now from my abode."
-
"It would be best if you could have your men deliver the merchandise to our current residence," Hakim says, smoothly. He gives Mhasma the location of the inn where the party is staying. "We can take delivery in the morning, unless you are eager to rid yourself of the 'hotter' items - in which case we'll need three or four hours to get ready."
The Turanian stares at the bottom of his empty tea cup. "Does either of you have anything stronger than tea?" he asks Brude and Krag. "Brother Mhasma and I should seal our contract with strong drink."
-
Mhasma
"It has been ages since I last took a swig of drink, but if it will put you at ease, so be it. The reason I stopped was my second wife, and her corpse is feeding plants right now, so why not?"
Mhasma looks at Brude and Krag to see if any of them produce some drink.
-
Brude slightly shakes his head and keeps scanning the room for trouble.
-
(see ooc thread, before continuing)
-
Krag mutters prayers and praises Ishtar for her divine beauty and grace.
A small drink appears in a medium glass vial. It is light blue in color, and has a sweet smelling aroma.
It would make one drink for everyone there at the table.
-
Hakim orders four glasses from the keeper of the tea shop, pours a drink from Krag's vial for everyone, and raises his own glass. "We drink to the goodness of Lady Ishtar, the quality of Brother Mhasma's goods, the surety of our payment for them, the success of our venture, and to future prosperity for us all." Then he drains his glass.
-
"Amen" and Krag swallows his drink!
-
The drink is like both wine, and ale, and a harder liquor that you couldn't put your name on. It is a strange drink, but overall it is tasty and goes down smooth.
Mhasma looks at the drink, and then downs it with one large swig.
"Ahhh, that was one fine drink. We are settled then. The goods will be delivered in several hours time."
Mhasma gets up and stretches a little.
"My man Varnal, will bring the goods by. I'll give him your name Hakim, so he can contact you. If you return, make sure to look for me in my booth. May the blessings of the gods be with you all."
Mhasma bows and starts out of the establishment.
-
Brude picks up his drink and holds it for a bit. He drinks it down once Mhasma leaves.
-
Hakim bows politely to Mhasma as the grubby but well-connected merchant leaves the tea house. Then he stands and says, "Krag, Brude, we had best leave now. We need to purchase mules - at least two or three, I dare say - to carry our wares and sufficient provisions for the expedition. I know a prominent dealer in mules who ought to have the animals we need, but we need to see him now, so that we can return to the Inn before Varnal arrives."
-
Mules and provisions. Make Haste.
-
"Alright, let's get going if we are to be done this night." says Brude.
-
The capable merchant Hakim, leads his associates to a man and his wife that have made quite a name for themselves for breeding hardy animals that seem to live long lives. Margus & Seelie are their names, and they have grown wealthy (at least compared to other Mule sellers).
The Stables are easy to find, and there are a good many animals there. One of the workers comes over when he sees the group of you arrive, and nods.
"You be lookin' for some fine animals? We have 'em if you want 'em. I think you know the price, and we don't barter here. You pay, and I'll bring the animals out, easy as that."
-
Hakim smiles, thinly. "Your masters' reputation precedes them, and we are of course prepared to pay the asking price for the purchase of three or four sturdy mules. Before we pay that price, however, I wonder if I might briefly inspect the animals you plan to sell us. Since your time is valuable, we are prepared to compensate you for it" - he begins opening his purse - "say, to the amount of..."
The Turanian thinks quickly, trying to guess what the stable hand makes in a day, and then offers his ten times that much.
-
Stable Hand
"Hmm... hold on a second. I just remembered there were some extra fine animals in one of the back stalls. I can bring them out and see if you like them."
He hurries off, and returns with some sturdy looking healthy animals. Hakim, Krag, and Brude examine the animals, and they do seem to be in fine working order.
"If these do, and they should, I'll take the payment now, and wish you on your way with the blessings of the gods old and new."
-
Krag says the animals look great and says a prayer blessing the stable hands with long fruitful lives. Ending with the sign of a well endowed woman!
(similar to the pope's blessing: sign of the cross).
-
The hand's eyebrow goes up in a funny position and then he smiles at Krag.
"Eh, yeah, what that guy said. I need me some women that fit that profile."
He hands the reigns over to Hakim.
"If you want a beat up old wagon, there is one behind the stables over there. You can have it, as the master was just going to get rid of it next week. Good travels."
-
Hakim pays the stable hand and takes the reins of the mules. After the man has gone back to work, the Turanian looks at the old wagon for a moment. "Well," he says, "this will serve to carry our provisions until we get into rougher country. We'll probably want to break it up for firewood then. Brude, help me hitch this mule" - he gestures with one set of reins - "to the wagon."
Once that's done, Hakim will lead Brude and Krag to the establishment of Cuold and Becksett, purveyors of provisions for man and beast, and begin negotiating for two weeks' fodder for the mules (I assume there are four of them), and two weeks' provisions for four people.*
* Xanos doesn't seem to need much food, but we may want to hire another companion - perhaps someone with experience as a muleskinner - for our expedition.
-
Krag:
Looks at his friend "4 people? who is not going?
There is 3 of us,
Xanos,
the Aesir and her brother (Dorin),
Bastich if he's coming
That brings the count to 7 including Xanos"
-
Brude
"I would bring enough for a dozen at least. Dorin and I can each eat enough for two!"
-
Krag
We only need food to survive, we don't need to be pigs. Provisions for 7 adults and 4 mules will suffice.
-
Hakim's Mind2 + Merchant1 + 8= 11 success.
Hakim manages to get a very good deal on food, and has enough food to comfortably feed a dozen people if he so desires. If he doesn't want that much, he pays less and has the bare minimum he requires for the trip.
-
While Hakim suspects Xanos isn't going to eat much food, he errs on the side of caution and pays for two weeks' provisions for eight* people (112 person-days - about 220 pounds of food), as well as two weeks' fodder for the four mules. He then makes haste back to the inn, along with Brude and Krag, to await the arrival of Varnal and the weapons.
* In case Bastich accompanies us and we also hire a muleskinner or other hireling.
-
It doesn't take too long to return back to the inn, and fortunately no unforeseen problems present themselves.
-
Krag returns to the table where we left the others - not Xanos, as he has retired for the night.
-
Hakim will remain outside to watch the mules and wait for Varnal to arrive with the weapons. He trusts Krag and Brude will let Lord Xanos know where he is.
-
Varnal arrives shortly thereafter, will all of the warm items hidden below the cold ones. :)
"Yeah, you look like the guy I'm supposed to meet. You want me to move your items over into that, um, wagon?"
If the answer is yes, Varnal helps load up the wagon, and if not, he will make his way back to his employer.
-
Hakim helps Vernal move the spears, swords, armor, and other gear onto the wagon, then offers him about five times a laborer's daily wage in return for help moving the provisions into the mules' packs.* He leaves the fodder in the wagon, because he doesn't want to tempt the mules.
Before Vernal leaves, the Turanian tips him another gold coin. "Would you be so kind as to let my lord Xanos know that our pack train is ready to depart whenever he wills?" Hakim briefly describes Xanos for the workman.
*Presuming Hakim wasn't so incompetent that he forgot to buy packs and bags for the mules.
-
Varnal takes the extra coinage and smiles thankfully.
"Sure, I'll let your boss know you're ready to depart."
Varnal makes his way into the inn, and scans the common room. Not seeing him there, Varnal makes his way to the front desk.
"Hey, you see a strange looking fellow, with eyes that seem like they could curdle milk?"
The inn employee nods his head, and points to the stairs.
"He's upstairs. Second door on the right."
Varnal makes his way upstairs and knocks on the door. If the door opens, he will say:
"Greetings. Your servant Hakim wishes me to tell you that the goods have arrived, and he awaits your presence outside of this establishment. My master Mhasma also wishes to thank you for purchasing his items, and wishes you blessings on your journey, wherever that may be."
Varnal nods in farewell, and heads back out onto the dusty streets of Shadizar.
-
I modified the post above.
-
There is a slight pulsing of shadow and light coming under the cracks of the door as Varnal knocks. After he does so there is a sound of rustling cloth and leather before a deep voice rumbles "Enter"
Varnal sees Xanos sitting cross legged and bear chested, in the center of an untouched room, devoid of possessions. Even the bed is still neatly made. He sits facing the open window, moonlight spilling through and pooling where he sits. He is finishing pulling on a pair of heavy leather gloves.
As Varnal speaks, Xanos only nods, saying nothing before closing his eyes again, returning to his meditation.
-
Varnal nods back, and seems uncomfortable. He turns and walks back downstairs and out to Hakim.
"I told him, but it didn't seem like he cared. Good luck with the merchandise."
-
"Thank you, Vernal," says Hakim. "Peace and wisdom go with you."
Hakim then begins inspecting his newly-acquired arsenal, taking inventory and calculating a reasonable asking price for each type of weapon and each piece of armor. (That's "reasonable" from the standpoint of a merchant in Shadizar; Hakim intends to ask a much higher price from the Kezankian hill folk.)
After he's finished with his inspection, the Turanian merchant calls to a nearby street urchin. "Here, boy! [or girl, as the case may be] A half-obol* for you if you'll enter yon inn and order a drink and some food for me, and another whole obol once it's delivered." He shows the first coin to the urchin and waits for a reply.
*OOC: An obol was a Greek silver piece; I assume a similar type of coin is in use in Shadizar.
-
The small boy looks at Hakim, and then darts around to the back of the Inn. Hakim notices that the boy doesn't ask for any money to purchase these items. There is some commotion, as the boy runs into someone in the alley way.
After several minutes, the boy returns holding the items that Hakim requested.
"Where's that coin you promised me? Be quick about it."
-
Krag
Krag is sitting at the table with the others (not Xanos and no one else posted that they left the table). After he sees the mercahnt's assistant go to Xanos,
"Xanos did not want to leave until morning, and our supplies are here. We should split up some watches to guard the stuff. "
-
Brude
I will take first shift.
-
Krag
Hakim is there he probably would like some food and drink. Grab a plate on your way out.
-
Hakim flips a silver obol to the urchin. "Be off with you, lad, and quick."
When Brude comes out with some food, he finds Hakim eating a chicken leg and a half-loaf of bread that appears to have been dropped at least once. "Ah, greetings, Brude. Join me for supper, won't you? Any news from Lord Xanos about our departure?"
Assuming Brude updates Hakim on Krag and Xanos's plans, the merchant replies, "Yes, it would be best if we guarded the merchandise in watches, so that everyone can get some sleep. I'll take the third watch if you'll take the first, and perhaps Krag or Dorin can take the second."
-
Krag
Steps out to the cart where Brude and Hakim are eating.
"I can take the second shift watching our stuff. So I'll retire now the guys at the table are spaced out and not doing much anyhow."
-
With the watch shifts set, the night passes rather uneventfully. There are several gangs of ugly looking miscreants, but they seem to keep to themselves on the way from one bar to another.
The morning comes, and a new day is upon you all.
-
Krag
Krag comes downstairs for breakfast and looks around for Xanos, surprised that he does not see him, Krag claims their usual table, orders some eggs, meat, toast and hot cider for breakfast and digs in after thinking Ishtar for providing this scrumptious meal.
-
Hakim feeds the mules, checks the wagon again for road-worthiness, makes sure that the various bundles of arms and provisions are secure, and otherwise prepares the small caravan for its journey into the foothills of the Kezankian Mountains.
-
In the predawn gloom Xanos stands at the window. He stares at his open hands. The light from the swirling energy pouring out from them casts twisting shadows across his stony face, reflecting into his eyes, lighting their pale color like stars.
A movement across the room draws his eye. Raenvieg lets a slight moan in her sleep where she had lazily passed out after spending most of the night listening to Xanos patiently drill her on the shapes of letters and numbers. The table near the bed is coated heavily with the chalk dust wiped over and over from the small board of slate she had been practicing on. The candles long since burned low and died.
As the Aesir girl stirs, twisting the blankets in the throws of some dream, exposing the pink lines of her back and then her flank and part of her breast, Xanos' jaw clenches and silver rushes into his pale gaze like ink in water, slowly swallowing every bit of them until nothing but gleaming metal gazes from under the lids of his eyes. The runes on his skin glint like chrome and the corner of his mouth turns up in a sinisterly appreciative smile.
"Yes..."
His hand raises and gestures in a beckoning motion and the blanket slowly begins to twist tighter, wrapping about itself below her feet and tucking itself in around her form like a cocoon. As it slowly tightens around her neck she stirs and lets out a frightened sound in her sleep. jerking a bit, tearing one arm half free and sharply inhaling as she wakes.
Xanos fist clenches suddenly and tightly.
"No."
His eyes begin to clear and the blankets release their tension, now nothing more than tightly wrapped cloth. As her frightened mind clears, Raenveig sees Xanos looking towards her, unmoved from the place he was when she fell asleep, staring at her with an unreadable mix of suppressed emotion on his face. His ebony form is lit by the light which writhes from his hands casting swirling shadows across the room, and for a moment there is the gleam of metal in his eyes.
Then is is just him meeting her gaze, his brow slightly furrowed in concern as he watches her wake and begins pulling on his heavy leather gloves once more. His voice rumbles from out of the shadows.
"A nightmare?"
-
Rannveig's mouth moves, a soft wordless noise emerging from her, almost a whimper. Swiftly, she snaps it shut, as if embarrassed by her lack of voice. Her eyes dart down to Xanos's hands, then to the sheet wrapped tightly around her. Slowly, she looks back up to his face and nods, wary but still trusting.
-
Dorin stretches hugely, throwing the blankets aside and standing in the growing sunlight. He tosses himself to the ground, still in only his smallclothes, to begin his day with a few push-ups. Throwing a glance to the side of the room, he frowns for a moment at the empty bed where Rannveig should have spent the evening, but shakes it off. It seems unlikely the strange wizard would have attempted anything foolish, and if he had, Rannveig would surely tell her brother, and there was ample time to bash such a fool's head in after a meal. Grabbing the rest of his clothing, he hastens into it and grabs the hammer, making his way downstairs to find a much-wanted breakfast.
-
Xanos nods as he finishes pulling on his gloves.
"You are awake now."
He has concern in his eyes, though he offers no words of sympathy, nor comfort. After holding her gaze a moment something in his expressionless mask strains but before it breaks he drops his gaze and turns away placing his hands on the window sill and looking out on the morning sky.
-
Bastich wakes up, takes in the morning light and the gets up from ground. He steps out of the alley across from the caravan and proceeds to take off the rags he was wearing and wipes off the mud off his face.
Tailing them is too much of a bother, but who can trust people like that?
He admires his own costume for a moment and then is slightly disturbed that he passed so easily for a homeless man.
"maby I should clean up a bit before we go....."
-
Brude is in the common room eating a hearty breakfast. He will keep an eye on the stairs to make sure no one looks like they are going up to bug Xanos.
-
Krag
"Morning Brude" between bites. Krag waits for Xanos - he mentioned needing my assistance with some prayers this morning. Krag wonders what it is X has planned.
-
Brude
Krag says Brude with a nod before resuming his breakfast.
Be ready to leave soon, Xanos is not one to wait around on small things such as food.
-
Krag
He also wants my help with a ritual of sorts before we leave this morning.
He says between bites of Homefries and Pancake.
-
Rannveig
When Xanos turns away, she watches him quietly for just a moment, concern in her eyes. Shaking her head sadly, she stands from the bed, unashamedly allowing the sheet to drop, and begins to dress herself, readying to head downstairs and begin the day.
Dorin
The giant Aesir announces his presence to the common room with a loud bang as he settle his hammer near the table and waves a wench over to bring him his meal. He crashes down to a seat between Brude and Krag and gives them both a hearty, companionable slap on the back. "Good morn, comrades! Passed the night well?"
-
Krag
Ya, my sleep was well, and the watch uneventful. The homefries are great here. And You?
-
As Rannveig dresses and begins to leave Xanos speaks without turning away from the window.
"Please ask Krag to join me."
-
Dorin
"Well enough, well enough. Fried potatoes, you say? Excellent."
Rannveig
The girls nods, and heads downstairs. When she arrives at the table, she places a hand on Krag's shoulder and mutely indicates the stairs back up - then sits down at the table and sets to, next to her brother.
-
Krag
He thanks Rannveig, almost nodding mutely too, then remembers he can talk, and says "Thanks, I presume Xanos wants me to visit him up in his room?"
Rannveig nods to show Krag is right.
Krag finishes his juice cup, and heads upstairs - wondering what Xanos has planned.
Knock, Knock on the door Xanos.
-
Xanos does not answer, even after a second, louder knock. After pausing a moment Krag simply pushes the not-quite-shut door open and looks in.
Xanos is standing at the open window, his head is bowed. Krag didn't notice that it was a cold morning earlier, but it is certainly chilly in these quarters. Probably from sleeping with the window open.
Then the light adjusts and Krag gets a better look at Xanos. His complexion is ashen, his shoulder blades and muscles down his spine more of a dark grey than their usual near-black brown. The runes on his back and shoulders look ragged and cracked, like frostbite. He is shaking his head slightly and talking under his breath. Krag isn't sure who he is talking to, but he thinks he may be able to faintly hear more people nearby, whispering.
-
Krag
Krag moves up to the window, in front of Xanos, and will try to see what he sees.
"Friend you do not look well, are you up for this trip? Maybe we should wait a few days..."
-
As Krag approaches, from the side, he sees Xanos' lips moving slightly, and a sound like a thousand whispers filling the air near him, faintly.
"...can't honestly believe this will work? They will all die and you will fail. Again. I know you are beginning to see it. It's just like I told you. They are too powerful, even for you. If you would just let me help..."
As Krag nears Xanos snaps upward and looks to him for a moment. His lips are blue-grey, like he has been frozen and his eyes are pits of swallowing blackness without iris or sclera, pulling, and infinite in depth. Patient and hungry.
Then he turns away and takes a deep breath as Krag speaks. he runs his hands over his scalp and shakes his head slightly. As hKrag watches, the ragged runes quickly heal and fade back to thier normal tattoed markings and the color returns to his skin. When he turns back to Krag his eyes are their normal piercing blue, though for a moment, in the pupils, no light reflects. Then he shakes his head and nods, and is his regular stone-faced self once more.
"I am fine. A brief moment of weakness. Nothing to be concerned over. I'd like to begin."
He crosses the room in two long strides, and scoops up the chalk dust off the table.
"I'll handle the incantation, I'd simply like you to help with the binding if she becomes unruly. She was powerful in life. She may yet be so in death."
He empties the severed head out of it's sack with a wet and rotten smelling thud, and quickly pours a circle of chalk dust around it as he speaks. As he finishes, he begins walking in a wider circle branching off of the first one.
-
Krag
You do look a lot better now.
"I am supposed to bind her head? and... What exactly are you trying to do? Put all the cards on the table, spell out your plan, I don't like surprises, especially when I am concentrating on gaining Ishtar's favor.
As you know loosing concentration in the art is never a good thing."
-
"I will use her head to call her spirit back to this place. I intend to force it to answer my questions. This tends to cause spirits to get every angry. It is difficult to both protect one's self, and to ask the proper questions. The outer circle is the calling circle, which I will be inside. The inner circle is the binding circle, which the head , and hopefully the spirit, will remain trapped by. I'd like you to aid in keeping the circle closed when she tries to escape and kill me."
Xanos finishes spreading the dust in a circle and begins using one of the left over sticks of chalt to write strange runes around the inner ring.
"Is that 'spelled out' clearly enough?"
-
Krag
"So the head is just an object, i am to bind the spirit when it comes through, and hold it inside the circle with the head. Should I stand across from you so the circle with the head and spirit are between us, or more off to the side so we have less of a chance of hitting each other? Yes that explanation helps a lot, thanks"
Krag moves to position himself, if Xanos' circle is at 12:00 Krag will stand about either 4 or 8
-
"If we were taking more time to prepare the ritual, and using reagents more complx than a severed head and chalk dust, we would have more precise locations within the spell. This is the faster, dirtier way of accomplishing the same objective, so as long as you are outside both circles, I am within the wider, and the spirit within the smaller, it should make no difference."
Xanos takes of his thick gloves. White light and curling shadows swirl out from his palms. The energies begin bleeding out and drawing themselves toward the edges of the circle. Strangely, as the strange energies pour off of Xanos, Krag feels the energies within himself strengthen.
"When you are ready, we shall begin."
-
Feel free to make the roll when you are ready. As long as you read up on how hard the spell roll is, I trust you to roll the dice.
-
Krag
Moves his arms and repeats the words to Ishtar, concentrating on holding / binding this spirit as soon as it appears. Withholding the final motion and or word/phrase until needed.
Krag holds his pose, looks at Xanos gives him a smile and nod to proceed.
(roll = (6+4) + Mind 2, + Druid 2 + Xanos 2 + needed power points) = 16 + pp
-
Xanos reaches his pulsing hands toward the smaller circle, energies pour towards it, spiraling into the chalk and the runes, flowwing inward and under the severed head.
"Spirit once called Melanarma of Shadizar, I call you to this place, where your skull lies, to answer my questions. You will come. You will not resist. You will answer. I call you."
-
A hideous sound emerges from the center of the circles. If the world was capable of tearing, it would sound like that. Following that horrible noise, is a loud wailing sound, and suddenly a dark cloudy shape can be seen in the center. Krag's prayers hold the spirit in place, and Melenarma, The Lady of Knives, High Priestess of Dagoth, screams out in torment and anger. A constant strong wind flows out from the spirit and blows the hair back on your heads. What looks like the head of the spirit moves back and forth from Xanos to Krag, and then inspects the circles that are inscribed on the ground. Melenarma tests the boundries, and Xanos and Krag make sure that they hold. Another horrible wail emits from the dark shape, and you get the feeling that it is waiting, as it looks back up to Xanos and Krag's faces.
-
Xanos smiles with grim satisfaction and looks upon the tormented spirit of the sorceress without pity or fear.
"Tell me what you know of the Eye of the Serpent, spirit. Tell me now."
-
Meanwhile, everyone else at the Inn hears the horrible wailing, and the other noises coming from the room. No one seems to be in a real hurry to see what is causing the strange noises.
Her voice sounds like it is coming from very far away, even though she is standing right before you both. It is very gravelly, and as it speaks the hairs on the backs of your necks rise in warning.
It looks at Xanos.
"You Great Ones who are many dwelling inside his flesh, to you I pay homage. I should have worshiped your like, instead of that feeble thing that they managed to kill. Of what do I know of this item you ask? I know that a certain merchant Kazak has it with him, as he associates with the Kezankian hillmen. He is planning to trade it with the Chief of the strongest tribe, who is also said to be a powerful Shaman. It is Kazak's wishes to make sure that his caravans are not attacked, and all others are. The Shaman is not a native, and is said to have come from Stygia. His name is unknown to me, but I know he is powerful."
The spirit seems to be testing the boundaries of the summoning circles again, but finds them to be holding.
-
Xanos' eyes narrow.
"You speak to me alone, spirit. I will brook no disrespect from the likes of you. Now, tell me all you know of the Chalice of Ishtar."
-
Spirit of the Lady of Knives
"Which Chalice of Ishtar? There are three of them. One is in the Temple of Ishtar, owned by the High Priestess. Another is halfway around the world in the Black Kingdoms. And the third is also in the possession of Kazak the Merchant."
Xanos and Krag notice that the Spirit seems to be concentrating on one area of the summoning circles, as if it is trying to wear it down so that it can break free.
-
Xanos nods.
"You will speak nothing of these things to any other beings, whether man, spirit, devil or otherwise. I bind you thus, and banish you."
Xanos dismisses the incantation with a sharp wave of his glowing hand and dismisses the spell.
-
The Spirit shrieks as it is dismissed.
The light seems to brighten in the room, and Krag's arm hairs relax once again.
Down in the common room (the now almost empty common room) the rest of you hear the final shriek and then silence.
Those that are outside also hear the final noise, and the deafening silence afterward.
-
Xanos scuffs the chalk circle with his foot, releasing the magical pressure, and slips his gloves back on, dousing the light pouring from them. He then takes a pitcher of water from beside the bed and sluices it through the design, marring it to any later observer.
"We are done here" he says to Krag, and opens the door.
-
Krag
He stands there frozen for a moment in utter amazement. Then as Xanos "washes" away the chalk, Krag blinks a few times and is finally able to move and control his body again.
As Xanos opens the door, Krag is able to exit but still moves with stiff limbs, by the time he reaches the bottom of the stairs the stiffness is almost not even noticeable, except maybe to Xanos.
-
Xanos says nothing as they descend but stops at the table where the rest of the group waits.
"Our business with this establishment is concluded. See to it that we leave no debts. Krag, Brude and I will go to the Temple or Ishtar. Once all is in readiness, retrieve us there."
-
"Whatever you say boss....."
Bastich just looks around to several of the others.
"I have no idea, where this temple is so I guess I'll just follow you around."
-
Presuming that someone conveys Xanos' message to him, Hakim (who is outside the Inn, guarding the caravan) replies "Tell Lord Xanos that our caravan is ready to depart on his command. I can move our mules and wagon to the Temple of Ishtar within the hour. (It would be nice to have some assistance therewith, of course.)"
-
As the group convenes outside to include Hakim, Xanos looks at the wagon with slightly raised eyebrows.
"I am continually impressed with the efficiency of this group. It has been a very long time since I was part of such a band. If my memory of Ishtarian rituals is correct, Krag will benefit from recentering at his temple before we leave, and I have a message to deliver to the high priestess. Once these things are done, we leave for the hills."
-
Krag
Nods when Xanos mentions the temple of Ishtar. Krag plans to refresh himself with his prayers and worship of the goddess, then research about the three Chalice of Ishtar, and if there is a specific one needed for the ritual back home.
-
Hakim bows his head. "Thank you, my Lord, for your generous sentiments. I hope we can be worthy of them. We will be ready to depart for the Temple of Ishtar momentarily." The Turanian adjusts his turban, checks the mules and wagon one last time (to make care all the straps and harnesses are secure), and, assuming everything is in order, says, "Ready here, my lord!"
-
Xanos nods.
"Then let us be off."
-
Hakim, after pausing to recall the direction of the Kezankian Mountains (northeast), begins leading the party members (and the mules and wagon) to the city gate. The party's initial goal is the nearest settlement of the hill people*, though it's likely that a group of Kezankians will stop us before we get there.
*Which I believe is Urkira, though the GM may decide that's not a Kezankian town.
-
*Which I believe is Urkira, though the GM may decide that's not a Kezankian town.
Sounds good to me.
You all reach the temple of Ishtar, and enter in. The priestesses are nowhere to be seen, and the temple is empty other than yourselves.
Krag knows how to go about his prayers and supplications, and knows he is welcome to do so.
-
Bastich laughs a bit.
"Perhaps the people in this town are just too damn lazy to come to church."
-
Upon seeing that the temple is empty, Xanos composes a message to the high priestess-
It has come to our attention that one of the lost Chalices is in the hands of a merchant named Kazak, who is living among the Kezankian hillmen. I and your servant Krag leave to confront the merchant in hopes of retrieving the Chalice, as well as a treasure of my own interest. In the event that we do not return, it is my hope that you will take up the search where we have failed.
- X
He leaves it on the offering table sealed with wax and a sigil of a serpent's eye set against a broken spiral. A sigil unseen in ages. The Crest of Doom.
-
Assuming everyone is done at the Temple, and Krag has performed his rites and offerings to his goddess, you all depart for the hills.
If anyone wants to do anything before you leave Shadizar the City of Wickedness, let me know.
-
Krag
Krag refreshes himself with his rites and offerings to the goddess, then will research about the three Chalices of Ishtar, and if there is a specific one needed for the ritual back home.
-
If Krag speaks to any of the Priestesses of Ishtar, and mentions that he is searching for the other Chalices, they will allow him to take the cup back to his homeland, but ask that he return it to them when he is done with it. Any of the Chalices can aid in the ritual that Krag wants to perform back home.
To help him on his quest, the Priestesses give him 20 herbal remedies, that have strong healing properties, and clot bleeding wounds instantly. They are a mix of rare herbs, wrapped in edible leaves, and coated with sugary coating to keep them together.
-
Krag
Thanks the priestesses, and wishes them all the blessings of Ishtar. "May she guide your future, and may we all protect her Earth. We will see you upon our return."
Once outside Krag asks Hakim in a whisper "When do you plan on telling Xanos that half our cargo is "hot" and he may have to disguise the symbols if we are stopped?"
-
Hakim pretends to make some adjustments to the mules' harnesses. "When the time is right, Krag," the merchant replies, "when the time is right."
-
Xanos says nothing as he exits the temple gates, simply nods to Brude and Hakim, then walks to his horse and swings into the saddle with surprising grace for such a large man. Leaning forward to stroke the side of the horses neck he speaks softly into it's ear in a language none recognize, lilting and beautiful. When he rises he seems more at ease than he has for the entire time any of his companions have been traveling with him. The corners of his mouth even twitch upwards in a slight smile, but only for a moment.
-
Brude
Let's head out. Everyone keep an eye out for trouble. We don't want anyone thinking we are an easy target. It would be tedious to have to prove them otherwise, and Xanos wishes to make good time.
-
"I am inclined to agree, Brude," says Hakim. "Let us make a good and prompt start to our journey, for as a wise merchant prince once said, 'Well begun is half done.'"
-
Xanos nods to Brude and turns to Hakim, speaking more loudly from the saddle than the others are used to hearing.
"Lead on."
-
Krag
Takes a seat on the wagon with the weapons.
-
(Re-posted, with some editing, from November 6th):
Hakim, after pausing to recall the direction of the Kezankian Mountains (northeast), begins leading the party members, their horses (for those who have mounts), the mules, and the wagon to the city gate. The party's initial goal is Urkira, the nearest settlement of the hill people. It's likely that a group of Kezankians will stop us before we get there, but that's part of our plan.
-
As the group approaches the gate of the city they see numerous refugees. You overhear that many of them are complaining about severe Hillmen raids to their farms and villages. Many of them are bruised and have bandaged heads.
Your group seems to be the only group actually heading in the direction of the Hillmen.
The guards say nothing, but chuckle to themselves as they see where you are heading.
The sun is climbing high overhead, and the heat is making everyone wish for shade. Even in the morning as it is, it is easy to tell that today will be a hot one.
-
The slave market is as hot and loud as ever when the two Aesir, a giant of a man and a woman, nearly as tall, at his side, stride in. They are both armed, the woman wearing a sword at her hip, not unusual in Shadizar. But the man carries a gigantic warhammer of an unfamiliar style slung over his shoulder. The two resemble each other, both blonde and blue eyed with strong features, and their clear gazes sweep the square. After a moment, their eyes settle on a particular group. The two glance at one another, and the woman nods.
Rolling his neck from side to side, the man stamps his feet to settle his boots and steps forward. There is no sale going on at the moment, the day being young yet, but the slavers are beginning to rouse their wretched charges for the coming day, slapping them awake and sluicing off their filthy bodies with water scarcely cleaner than themselves.
The group the Aesir are moving toward huddles in a corner, still hidden from the relentless morning sun by the shade of the buildings nearby. It is a relatively small group, most of their human merchandise being sold off the previous day. There are only two slaves left, kept to see to to their master's needs, of whom only four are visible.
Before they are quite within earshot, the man turns to his companion, and says in a rumbling bass, "These are them?" When she nods, he snorts. "Then perhaps I owe Bastich an apology. He was right about where to find them, and there's only one less than he said." Without another word, he breaks into a run, leaving her only a step or two behind before she moves to follow.
The nearest slaver has just finished cinching a saddlebag tight and stretches his arms wide, beginning to turn around at the sound of approaching footsteps. He only barely has time for his eyes to widen as a huge fist fills his vision and slams into him, felling him to the ground. His companions give a shout and begin to scramble for their weapons, but the big man is already in motion. He spins and in one practiced action unslings his hammer and slams it into the chest of the next slaver. The man is hurled against the side of the horses he was loading, which shies and rears up, kicking out at another man in front of it. He doesn't react in time, and takes a blow to the temple, practically caving in his skull. The fourth man has managed to get his sword from his belt by this time, and starts to swing it at his Aesir attacker, but with an almost casual motion, the giant slaps the blade to the side, imbedding it in their wagon. The slaver yelps and turns to flee, but the Aesir shoulders his hammer and lets fly with a boot at his back, dropping him with a thud. The man crawls away as quickly as he can, but a boot presses into his spine, pinning him to the muddy ground, and he goes limp, knowing when it's time to surrender.
He whines, face barely out of the filthy street, "What have we done, mighty sir?! Whatever it is you want, you may take it, only let me live!"
He cuts off abruptly as the head of the hammer slams down next to his ear, scattering dirt and offal into the man's face. He splutters, trying to clear his eyes, when the boot lifts from his back and the big man growls down at him. "Perhaps, cur, though I doubt it. If you have the right words to say." As he struggles to rise, the same boot catches him in the stomach, flipping him over, and he stares up at the Aesir, whose mastered rage yet cloud his features.
Hammer ready at his shoulder, the barbarian says in a voice filled with anger, "I am Dorin, son of Rogal. This," he gestures to the woman behind him, who steps forward, "is Rannveig. My sister." The slaver's face pales as he recognizes the girl, a slave sold only a few days before. Dorin leans forward just a touch, a promise of blood in his eyes. "Answer my questions carefully, and I may yet leave your worthless skull intact."
The man nods hastily, his eyes darting about. "However I can help...ah, master." Dorin growls and steps forward threateningly, and the man gives a choked wail, raising his arms over his head in a futile gesture of protection. "I am no man's master! I have never tried to buy and sell lives, the way that you worthless southerners -" Rannveig lays a hand on her brother's arm, and he stops, looking over at her. He stares for a moment, and then sighs, backing down. "Yes, of course. I will not attempt to teach this trash, we have work to be done."
Turning back to the slaver, whose panic is growing under control by now, he raises his lip contemptuously. "Now then. The first question. I know you were not the first to...acquire my sister, since she was able to tell me herself. Where, and from who, did you find her?"
The man licks his lips nervously, and says, "We took her alone, in the western kingdoms. We raided another camp's slaves, that's all. She was gathering water with other women, but she was the only one we grabbed before we had to take off."
"Was there another Aesir there?" Dorin barks anxiously.
"No. No, I swear it on my mother's eyes!" the slaver blurts out.
Dorin nods thoughtfuly, his eyes on the sky. "Very well then. The west. At least we have more to go on."
He crouches down, resting his hand on his knees, to look the pathetic man in the face. "One last question." He leans closer, a dangerous light glimmering in his ice-blue eyes. "Were you the one who cut out my sister's tongue?" The man recoils, scrambling backwards.
"I'm afraid I had that honor, you useless brute of a pig farmer." The voice, more cultured than the others, rings out from behind Dorin, and the Aesir flinches as the blade of a sword presses into his back. "Get up. Slowly." Dorin does so slowly, grinding his teeth as his hands flex on the haft of the hammer. "Drop the stick, and turn around." With great reluctance, the giant drops his hammer to the ground and turns to face the newcomer.
He finds himself facing an Argossesan, whose clothes are finer than one might expect on a trader of flesh. He is flanked by two others, both carrying two long knives. Rannveig is held in front of one of them with his dagger to her throat, fear and anger flooding her face. Dorin growls deep in his throat, but the Argossean's saber comes up to his neck, held unwaveringly less than an inch from his veins. "Now, now, none of that." His gray eyes scan the Aesir, sizing him up. "You are a big one, aren't you? The brother, I presume." He allows himself a sly grin when Dorin's face darkens. "You're the reason we had to take her tongue, you know. She was constantly going on about you, Dorin will break your bones, he'll be here soon, all that drivel. We finally grew tired of it." Dorin moves forward, red rage boiling, but the Argossean simply flicks his wrist and cuts him deeply along his collar bone. Hissing, Dorin comes to a halt again as blood begins to flow down his chest.
"Now then. What to do with you." The Argossean taps his foot, amusement dancing across his expression. "You've done quite a number on my men here. Worthless as they are, they do probably deserve some sort of retribution, wouldn't you say? I would say that we'll simply take the both of you back. I get to sell her again, and you'll fetch a fine price yourself, once we've taken your eyes." His sword wanders up to waver around Dorin's face, circling each of his eyes. "We certainly couldn't trust you to stay docile, even in chains, if you could still fight properly...so, right to it, then. Ashtan!" he snaps at the slaver still sniveling on the ground behind Dorin. "Get up, you useless bag of sh*t. It only seems fair you get to do the deed." The one he addresses lowers his eyes, and squeaks out, "Yes, Thenio."
As the man scrambles up, there's a commotion behind Thenio, and a curse. His eyes flicker to the right, and he swears himself, sidestepping away as Rannveig continues her twist. She slips under her captor's arm and with a lightning flourish, cracks his wrist as she takes the dagger from his hand. The man howls in pain, starting to drop to his knees, and Rannveig unceremoniously slashes his throat away. The other guard gives a shout and runs toward her, and manages only to impale himself on her sword as she whips it free. Thenio drops into a defensive stance, taking a step forward with his eyes blazing anger at the Aesir girl.
He snarls, spitting out, "What the hell have you done, slut?! I'll flog your damned hide free from your bones! I'll -" he stops suddenly as there is a smacking noise and something moves in his peripheral vision. He shifts his stance to see Dorin, straightening with his hammer in hand, dripping with blood from the pulped skull of the last flunky, Ashtan. The Aesir stares at Thenio with pure murder in his eyes as the barbarian rage bubbles up in his brain. Before he can move, though, Rannveig's blade flashes into the picture, slicing the bastard across the face. Dorin blinks and shakes his head, his growing battle rage disrupted by the unexpected attack from his sister.
Rannveig stands proudly, sword in one hand and the guard's dagger in the other, a thin line of bright scarlet showing across her neck where the thug had held a knife to her throat. She gestures with the blade, indicating Dorin should back away, and he does so, understanding. This man is her enemy, in truth, and her battle if she wishes it.
The Argossean stands in shock, holding his left hand to his face, and it comes away covered in blood. His right cheek is badly slashed, nearly to the bone, and the cut only barely misses his eye. He snarls wordlessly at Rannveig, dropping into a defensive stance. As she begins to advance, though, he drops to the ground and hurls a clod of mud at her face. Unprepared for such a dishonorable tactic, she yelps in the confused mewl of the mute and paws at her eyes, dropping the dagger to the groud. Dorin roars and advances forward, but Thenio whirls and slaps the flat of his blade across the already uneasy horse's backside. The horse starts and attempts to run forward, nearly trampling Dorin in its rush. The giant swears and pushes the beast with all his strength, altering its course to move down the street.
When Rannveig has cleared her eyes and Dorin gotten out of the fleeing animal's way, neither can see sign of Thenio in the crowd of the square. Dorin starts forward, but Rannveig whistles and points toward a clump of guards on the other side of the square, lazily moving in their general direction. Law in Shadizar may be lax, but they're unlikely to simply pass over two bleeding foreigners charging through the busy market looking to disrupt the flow of coin. Dorin growls, clearly not happy about letting an enemy escape to fight another day, but moves in the other direction - back toward the gate where Xanos and the others are making ready to leave. He stops suddenly, turns around, and with quick, precise strikes, strikes the chains from the two slaves. He nods to them and turns back around, leaving them, gaping, to their unexpected freedom. Rannveig smiles softly and lays a hand on his shoulder, beautiful despite her injury and the scuffle. Dorin grins back and nods. "Well done today, sister. Never let me doubt your blade again."
She chuckles and smacks his arm as they move off.
A good start to the day.
Soon, they catch up with the rest of the group, and the two Aesir settle onto the back of the wagon without a word, Dorin nodding to Bastich thankfully. They begin to bandage their wounds, Rannveig gently wrapping clean linen around her brother's chest.
-
Brude
Nods at Dorin. "Took you long enough."
-
Dorin and Rannveig
Dorin grunts as Rannveig gives the bandage a final cinch and ties it tight. "Aye, so it did."
-
Krag
Since the wagon is not all that large, Krag will take a horse instead. Allowing the Aesir to sit in the wagon.
-
The group heads off towards the place that everyone else wants to flee from.
You travel hard, and start to get into some of the foothills before night falls, with the threat of a storm in the night. Hakim leads you to a good place to camp by a small stream, and near a small patch of trees.
Do you post a watch, and if so, in what order? Do you continue on instead of camping?
-
Hakim, who spent the latter part of the day studying the gathering clouds and noticing the growing skittishness of the mules, is convinced that there will be a rain storm that evening. "I suggest we make camp, and pitch our tents about thirty yards from yon stream," the merchant says as the evening shadows gather. "In case any hill men or highwaymen are lurking, we should set watches through the night. I'll take the first; Krag, Brude, and Bastich should divide three more watches between them. That should see us through 'til morning. We should exempt Dorin and Rannveig, in light of his injury and her" - the merchant pauses and strokes his beard nervously - "disinclination to talk. Does that sound fair?"
-
Xanos says nothing, just watches. This is what he hired them for, they can sort out the way they would like to do things.
-
Dorin turns his hand down dismissively. "I can take a turn at watch. It's nothing."
Rannveig frowns, but doesn't react beyond that.
-
As the others sort out the watch order, Xanos looks around for high ground, preferably with trees or some other form of shelter.
He seems to have almost become a different person since swinging into the saddle. More vibrant. More alive.
-
The watches are set, and everyone settles in for a rough stormy night. The winds howl, sounding like tortured souls of the damned. Old trees can be heard squealing and breaking, crashing down like falling giants. At times, it is necessary to stake your tents again, as they are pulled free from the ground from the insane winds.
In the middle of the night a high pitched wailing noise (even more haunting than the winds) can be heard high in the air. It seems like it was from the hills, and was heading in the direction of Shadizar at an very quick rate.
The morning comes, and many of you find you have not rested well during the night, though perhaps, some can sleep through anything.
The air is clear, though the ground is muddy, with lots of broken branches and leaves strewn everywhere you look.
-
Hakim gathers his cloak about him (the morning air is slightly chilly, as a result of the passing storm front) as he checks to make sure the mules, wagon, and cargo are all right. He suggests that Dorin and Brude break down and store the tents while he does so. Then everyone (excepting Xanos, perhaps) should break their fast briefly before we resume our journey to the Kezankian Mountains, and Urkira.
-
Once again Xanos does not eat when everyone else does. He does not even make himself his customary cup of tea. He spent the early evening the night before attending to his own horse, being meticulously thorough about brushing and checking it's feet, then working with it moving it through a series of basic exercises, seemingly designed to train it and bond closer with it.
Once the horses had settled in, he had sat down to continue Rannveig's education while the cookpot simmered. He was particular about the placement of the tents, being sure that the others placed them in such a manor that they were angled to the direction of the wind, not square, that one was behind another, and that the mouth of the tents faced away.
He was awake when the first watch passed, and as the last began, sometimes writing in a small journal with a quill and ink, sometimes meditating cross-legged, other times he simply stretched out on the ground, heedless of the cold, staring at the stars. When the tents began to pull free, he was the first to move, going immediately toward the corners that bit windward and whistling over a horse to break the gale as he worked. It is obvious from the fluid and practiced way he kept the tent from upending in the storm that he had done it before many times.
When each person took their watch he was awake. Though some might just chalk it up to sleeplessness, if the group ever discussed it they would discover that he had been awake all night.
-
With the ease of long practice, Dorin begins attending to the camp breakdown. He slept deeply (and snored loudly, to anyone paying attention to such things), and moves with energy. The night before, he had noticed Rannveig and her lessons with the wizard, but said nothing. She was woman enough to choose who to speak to.
Rannveig also helps with the camp work, sparing a few glances towards Xanos. Her lessons were going well, if sporadically, despite their strangeness to her - but the teacher was ever an enigma.
-
Krag
Takes time to pray to Ishtar that the worst of the storm may be directed away from them and a second prayer for rest and strength for their horses and mules.
During the last watch Krag works at building an altar to Ishtar and breaking his tent and preparing to move for the day. During the cooking and breaking of camp Krag does his praying and worshiping of Ishtar.
-
Everyone sets out and the damp cold eventually gives way to warmer and drier weather. There is a warm breeze coming from the south, and the small leaves on the trees rustle in the wind. The smell after a heavy rain is a good one, and somehow cheers some of you up after the thunder of the nightmarish storm the night before.
After several hours of travel, the hills begin to take on a steeper slant to them, but they are still easily navigated. There are signs of battle, and lots of horse tracks in the damp ground. There are signs of a camp, and even some blood stains, pooled up with the rainwater. Surprisingly, there are no bodies, and relatively little else left over. Splintered wood, and fragments of clothes and armor can be found, but little else. It almost seems like the attackers, took almost everything when they left.
-
Brude will check for strange tracks, something doesn't feel right to him.
-
A few hours prior to the group's arrival at the battle site, Hakim decides to take advantage of the improved weather and the party's lightened mood to approach Xanos with some unsettling information. While Xanos's horse is proceeding forward at a moderate walk, the merchant hastens to catch up with the nobleman. "My lord, may I have a quick word?" he asks.
Assuming Xanos deigns to notice him, Hakim continues, "I would be remiss in my duty, Lord Xanos, if I did not inform you that some of the weapons in our cargo are stolen merchandise." He pauses to await Xanos's reaction*, then continues. "The arms in question were stolen by thieves from the temple guards of Mitra, and bear their symbol. I thought little of buying stolen merchandise, since weapons are frequently contraband and since practically everything for sale in Shadizar was stolen at some point. But should we happen to sell these arms on our journey, it may be wise for me to make an appropriate donation to Mitra's temple upon our return."
* Which is probably no reaction at all.
-
Xanos listens patiently as Hakim speaks, his face stoney. He reacts not at all as he hears that the weapons are stolen property. As Hakim finishes he cocks an eyebrow and asks-
"Mitra?"
-
Hakim pauses before answering Xanos's question. Small beads of sweat appear on his brow, just below his turban. "Yes, my lord, the weapons belonged to the guards of the Temple of Mitra." The merchant tries to think what he knows of Mitra and his followers, though he probably only knows that the god is very popular in some parts of the world.
-
"I am unfamiliar with the followers of Mitra. Are they of a sort likely to cause us trouble?" Xanos says, looking hard at Hakim.
-
"The followers of Mitra are no more dangerous than any other god's worshipers, my lord," Hakim replies, "and they are much less violent than some. They are merely somewhat...numerous. If we can sell the branded merchandise quickly, we ought to be all right."
-
Dorin snorts in derision. "Numbers matter little if they don't have the spirit for the fight."
Rannveig starts to nod at her brother, but breaks off mid-motion, glancing at Xanos.
-
"Then it matters little to me. If all goes as planned we will not have the weapons long. You have done well to keep me appraised of the situation."
-
Brude rides his horse around the campsite / battlefield. He is looking around at both horse and human tracks around the campsite turned battlezone. Bloody pools of water and scattered clothes and armor some broken weapons and splinters of wood can be seen.
... (to be continued)
-
Xanos rides a slow circle around the field with Brude, keeping his eye both on the carnage and on the hills around them, wary of an ambush.
-
Noticing Brude's and Xanos's nervousness, Hakim climbs down from his seat at the front of the wagon. He begins checking on each of the mules, and seeing if they hear or smell anything that he and his companions cannot.
-
Dorin, tired of waiting, leaves the wagon and strides foward to the edge of the field, hammer at the ready.
Rannveig lays a hand on his shoulder as he jumps down from his seat, but he ignores her warning.
-
The group has entered this battlefield from the south - the road you were following, you came from the west and are traveling east (following the road). The previous group did not camp right on the road. (this is a rather common camp and appears similar to a rest area along the road)
Brude rides around the battlefield and he is amazed looking at some of the broken weapons and imagining what they could have been; then he gets distracted by some of the trees that have grown and twisted around each other.
His idea to search could have been good but unfortunately he becomes easily distracted.
Xanos on the other hand is scanning the battlefield and can tell that there was a group of 5 men it would appear were working for a merchant and they were attacked unawares or did not put up much of a defense against the 10 horsemen. There is some merchandise that was destroyed, but it seems most was just confiscated. It also does not look like this is the first time a battle was fought here.
Xanos scanning the countryside - at first look sees a few shadows in one area to the North of the battlefield, but he is also occupied with the battlefield itself.
Hakim in studying the mules seems to get a feeling (more from the one on the left) that there is something to the North that is making them uneasy.
Dorin is standing on the west side of the battlefield with his hammer in hand, in case someone approaches.
The rest of the group (caravan) is maybe 1/3 of the way past to the trail back from the camp / battle site
-
Brude
"Hmmm. Treees"
-
"Indeed. This wagon came into this valley unaware. They were hit from all sides before they could react. The field is fresh. Given that we saw nothing as we approached, if the ambushers were using the site of their previous attack as bait for passersby, they would be there-" he nods toward the copse of trees Brude is indicating, and then to another "or there, perhaps both, and would be moving on us soon. "
-
Xanos examining the trees a bit closer notices that in 4 places branches and other camouflage have been added to build some natural shelters possibly for scouts to watch the common camp turned battleground. Xanos also notices a flash as if light was reflected off of a metallic surface in one of these shelters.
-
Xanos, pretending nothing is amiss, goes back to scanning around.
"Four blinds, large enough for two men each, likely four to eight scouts, and possibly horsemen in wait over the hills. What do you think Brude, should we call them out of hiding?"
-
Brude subtly signals for Dorin and the others to move up. After waiting a moment, he turns towards the blinds.
"Lord Xanos wishes to speak with your leader. It is wise to not keep him waiting."
-
Upon hearing Brude's challenge, Hakim reaches into the wagon and grabs two large wooden wedges, which he deftly kicks into place on each side of the wagon's left front wheel. He then grabs a large tent peg from the wagon, drives it into the ground in front of the wagon with his boot, and ties the lead mules' reins to it. This will probably take him 45-60 seconds. Then he draws his scimitar.
-
Krag
Turns his horse to the left and nudges him forward through the small woodsy area and over a log. Up to the point where Brude is calling out a leader. Krag keeps his hands free for casting.
-
Dorin swings his hammer experimentally, making sure it's still in proper condition, as he moves where indicated. A battle plan is always worth following.
Rannveig follows suit, moving up from the wagon and drawing her sword.
-
Having immobilized the wagon and mules, Hakim, on foot and with scimitar drawn, hurries to the north end of the abandoned campsite to join Dorin, Brude, Xanos, and the rest.
-
Krag
"Xanos, What is this threat, what do you see ?"
-
Brude
"There is no threat, but possibly the hillsmen that Lord Xanos has been looking for." says Brude as he points towards the blinds.
-
"They expected to catch us unaware. Allow them a moment to collect themselves."
-
Bastich moves up but makes sure he is behind the rest but dose not do so obviously, he wastes time cleaning off his boot and checking his equipment.
"So when does the fun start?"
-
Two trees fall, one to your left and one on your right as they fall they land in squares B4 - C5- D6 - E7... Breaking the table
The other tree falls into squares B10 - C9- D8 - E7 hits the other tree and breaks in half falling to the ground. Destroying the tents.
From the eastern shelter (#1) - Two warriors appear carrying spears and some sort of pipe, one with a lion like animal on a tether. From another shelter (#3) just west of center another figure appears he is dressed better than the other two,
Ballik
"I am Ballik, in charge of these soldiers," looking at Brude, " which one of you is Xanos and why do you call me out".
-
Xanos nods to Hakim, and waits for the silver-tongued merchant to earn his keep.
-
Hakim steps forward. "I greet you and your companions, Captain Ballik. I am Hakim, trader in fine merchandise, including such armaments and armor as would make each of you the envy of every village and clan hereabouts. Lord Xanos" - the Turanian turns and makes a short bow in Xanos' direction - "is my sponsor and protector, and my companions are armsmen - and armswomen - in milord's employ. Perhaps you and your men would be interested in examining our wares, even hefting one or two of our swords and spears?"
-
Ballik,
Ballik straightens up when Hakim calls him Captain, as if his actual rank was lower. He tugs at his dark beard and thinks a minute. He stops at about 20 feet and motion his companions to stop there also.
We have an agreement to trade only with the merchant Kazak. You are obviously not associated with him. All other merchants on this route are either killed or they run off without their merchandise. " <pauses> " However you did stop and call me out, so you must have some hopes to negotiate.
-
Hakim smiles broadly, showing several gold teeth he acquired in his pirate days. "We have heard of the esteemed merchant Kazak, and had heard also that he had made an exclusive agreement with many of your kinsmen, though we did not know how far his domain extended when we ventured into your homeland. We must assume that noble warriors such as yourselves are men of honor, and would not dream of asking you to renege on your agreement with the eminent Kazak."
"However," the merchant continues, "we too are men of honor, and it would not do for us to surrender our merchandise and flee this field without resisting. Yet bloodshed would injure both of us and profit neither of us. We face a dilemma."
Hakim pauses momentarily, as if thinking. "Here is my proposal, then. You could guide us to the merchant Kazak - or to one of his immediate employees - in return for a suitably generous gift to compensate you for your trouble." He gestures to the mules and wagon behind him. "We can then arrange to sell our remaining wares to him, at a reasonable price, and he can sell them to you and your kinsmen. That way, your agreement is preserved, honor is preserved, and profit flows to everyone.
"What say you, Captain Ballik?"
-
Ballik
"Sir Hakim, this is an interesting proposal." Ballik says, stroking his beard. "Of course, I'd like to see the uh merchandise." Points to Rannveig "That wench, can come with me to the wagon, and show me the stuff that you'd give me"
Ballik motions for her to walk to the stump of the tree that has fallen on his right (to the west, or down in the picture)
-
"Er," Hakim interjects, "we would be delighted to show you our wares, Captain Ballik, but it would be best if I were the one who accompanied you to our wagon. Our companion, Rannveig, does not speak the common tongue, and is not as familiar with the particulars of the arms and armor we have for sale as I am."
-
Ballik
Thinks for a minute and responds, "All right, but just you, if you sheath the scimitar"
Ballik moves to the tree stump (located in square 14, three columns before A, X if your like), he has a longsword on his Right hip and makes sure to place Hakim on his left as they walk over to the wagon.
-
Hakim sheathes his scimitar, accompanies Ballik to the wagon, and pulls back the coverings on the various piles of arms and armor, to allow the captain to inspect the aforementioned wares. He remains ready to answer any of the Kezankian's questions, but doesn't try to direct his inspection in any way.
-
Ballik
Picking at this and that, hefting a sword or two, and generally checking over the wares. "Mr. Hakim, you mentioned a gift - did you have anything specific in mind?"
-
"Ah, yes, of course," says Hakim. "We have here a very fine chain mail hauberk, suitable for someone of your rank and dignity, and I believe I have a spontoon* here as well - that is what officers carry in our home city to distinguish themselves from the common soldiers. For both you and your men, we can also supply a short sword, for close-in fighting, a dagger, and a buckler." He shows each item to Ballik in turn - it probably doesn't take too long, since Hakim probably set a few higher-quality items apart as potential bribes (it's something virtually all pre-modern merchants did as a matter of course). "Does anything else here catch your eye?"
* A half-spear carried by lower-ranking officers in late medieval and Renaissance era armies as a badge of rank.
-
Ballik
Looks at the items Hakim pulls aside, appreciatively. A big smile crosses his face as he hefts the Spontoon.
"I can have these, and 7 sets of short sword, dagger, and bucklers. In return for introducing you to Kazak? Of course I cannot guarantee that Kazak will want to do business"
-
Bastich rolls his eyes and walks back to were he was sleeping in the wagon.
-
Hakim hesitates, stroking his beard nervously, as if he is concerned about the high cost of the bribe he is paying to Ballik*. Then he brightens and says, "You are a shrewd negotiator, Captain Ballik, but we will meet your price. The chainmail hauberk, spontoon, daggers, swords, and bucklers are yours. Bastich!" Hakim calls. "Would you be so kind as to help me lay out Captain Ballik's compensatory gift?"
* He is probably feeling a little queasy about it - mercantile habits are hard to break.
-
Ballik
Ballik motions to the other two "soldiers" one retreats with the "lion" and the other comes down to assist Ballik in carrying the bribe. Meanwhile the other soldier leaves on horseback headed North.
-
"I trust our merchandise meets with your approval, honorable captain," Hakim says, as smoothly as he can. "We of course are ready to meet with the esteemed Master Kazak at your very earliest convenience."
-
Xanos watches the horseman leave to the north and says low to the rest of the group-
"They will be expecting us now. We may be walking into a trap."
-
Ballik
Ballik wonders just how good a merchant this Hakim is - most never accept the first offer and often haggle over until a deal is reached. "These are good weapons. I sent Sebak to Master Kazak, to inquire with him about his earliest convenience for you."
Ballik gathers the chainmail and spontoon, as well as two sets of daggers, swords, and bucklers. He leaves the other 5 sets for his other soldier to carry. Ballik smiles as he carries these items back toward his shelter / blind. He dons the chainmail and carries the spontoon back.
When he comes back out in the open, the other man starts to make his way slowly up to a blind stumbling and trying to find an easy way to carry everything.
-
Ballik
"Would you like to follow me to meet this Kazak, or would you like to wait here? If you wait here, it might go better for you, as my kinsfolk don't take a liking to outsiders from the accursed city.
Ballik spits in the direction of Shadizar the Wicked.
"Some of us know you aren't all bad, but most think you are descended from devils that mated with your whorish womenfolk. Some of you have strange colors in your eyes, and skin unlike any I've seen. That will not help your cause, as you will be perceived as spawns from the outer void."
-
"I will consult with my patron, Lord Xanos," Hakim replies to Ballik. "I suspect he will not want to cause any undue friction with your kinsmen, but on the other hand he would not want to put Master Kazak to any more trouble than necessary, by obliging him to meet us so far away from his home."
[Translation: Hakim doesn't want to start a fight with superior numbers of hillmen, if he can avoid it, but he also doesn't want to give Kazak an opportunity to refuse to meet with our party.]
-
Ballik
"Tell your Lord to make up his mind. I'll take you there, or ask Kazak to meet you here. He may, as you say, not want to travel out this far and deny to meet with you. So perhaps coming with is best. Just let me know his decision. I will await your decision over there. I will have a small contingent of men to escort us."
Ballik turns and walks over to some of his hidden men, and starts to talk to them.
-
Krag
Speaking to Xanos and the rest of our crew. "I think it is best to go to see Kazak, we are somewhat trapped here by these trees. Though I could probably get Ishtar's blessing so that one or two of us could pass through the wood.
We would only need to get the wagon up the hill and hopefully there is more of a road there."
-
There seems to be a trail behind one of the false walls that the hillmen are hiding behind. It looks wide enough to get a wagon through, so the aid of Ishtar will most likely not be needed.
-
Xanos nods to the trail. "Brude, Bastich, prep the wagon to move." To Krag he says "Hakim seems about finished. Let's see what he has to say."
-
Krag
Nudges his horse to follow Xanos and brings Hakim's horse along as well. (assume Hakim walked with Ballik to the wagon). They ride up and around the fallen tree to the left.
-
Ballik
"Have you city folk made up your minds? What does your Lord say? Will he wait the arrival of Kazak the Merchant, or will you journey forth to meet him in the heart of my homeland?"
-
Hakim returns to the party and addresses Xanos. "My lord, Ballik and his men have accepted our gratuity, and wish to know whether we would care to meet Kazak the Merchant here or in his current base village. It is my humble opinion that the latter may be slightly preferable; while we will be outnumbered in the heart of Kezank country, by meeting Kazak at his current domicile we will prevent him from claiming that we have made it inconvenient for him to meet us."
-
Xanos nods. "So be it. Lead us out."
-
Hakim returns to Ballik and his men. "My lord Xanos has decided it would be best to meet with the esteemed Kazak in the heart of your homeland. We trust you will guide us there safely and expeditiously."
-
Krag
handing Hakim the reins to his horse.
"Hakim if there is anything I can do to help get the wagon to the top of the hill?"
-
"The mules should be able to pull the wagon up the hill by themselves," Hakim says in reply. "They're slow but steady beasts, and sure of foot. But if you have any skill as an animal-handler, you might walk alongside the lead mule and give it some reassurance. I will gladly lead your horse while you do so."
-
Ballik
"The men that will accompany us, are ready to go. Your wagon will stay in the middle. Most of the men will ride ahead, and some will ride behind. Be wary, there are strange beasts that have been killing off my people as of late. The worst of them accompany hellish storms."
With that Ballik kicks his very thick horse, and his men ride out in front. The other men wait till the wagon starts to move, and then they fall in behind you. Almost all of them now seem to have the blades that you gave to the Hillmen. Some pull them out from time to time to test how sharp they are, and pull back bleeding fingers. They smile at this and sheathe the blades.
The land that surrounds you begins to get steeper as you meander through the foothills. The trail is barely wide enough for the wagon, and several times hillmen that were traveling in the other direction, had to go around your wagon by entering the thick woods to either side of you. There were some curses that could be heard from those riders because of this.
The mountains can be seen in the background, dominating the horizon like a pile of dark giants. You all travel for the rest of the day, and the hillmen find a suitable place to camp off the side of the trail. It has a nearby pond, and a fresh spring to collect water. They've already killed off two deer, but it seems that they aren't offering to share any of it with you. They point to an empty place on the flat ground where you can park your tent, and set up camp, and then continue on with their venison feast.
The night envelopes you, and the wondrous stars of Hyboria shine on you like jealous lovers. Their light is all there is, as the moon is dark, and is stingy with her light.
-
Hakim (perhaps assisted by Krag) unharnesses the mules and leads them down to the spring for a drink. Then he tethers the animals where they can graze.
"After we eat," Hakim says to the other party members, "we should set watches for the night. Our, er, colleagues" - he glances over at the hillmen - "may decide that we haven't paid them for guard duty, and their warning of strange beasts would seem to mandate more than usual caution."
-
Krag
After helping with all of the animals, and hearing Hakim's suggestion to set watches.
"I agree, let's set two sets of watches, one at each end of our camp. I'll take one of the last watches"
-
Brude
"Agreed. I will take middle watch."
-
The watches eventually are determined, and the night creeps up like a stalking panther.
During the night strange noises can be heard high up in the air, but nothing seems to present itself for you to try to test your blades on. Some of the hillmen wake up to relieve themselves during the night, but nothing bad happens with that.
The morning arrives, and a strong chilly breeze is coming from the North. A light layer of frost is on the ground, but it quickly melts with the sun that peaks through the partly cloudy sky. The hillmen start to gather their gear, and make ready to continue on in the journey.
-
Xanos did not eat that night. he did not even have his customary cup of tea. he simply laid out a blanket and spent some time looking into the clear night sky. After a time he broke out the slate board and chalk and tutored Raenvieg on her letters. He even picked up a small piece of wood from the ground and began carving it with the curved knife that sat in place of a buckle on his belt. His movements were tentative at first, but soon he relaxed into a state of practiced ease, crafting a remarkably detailed and finely made three inch tower from the branch. All through the evening he was in uncharacteristically good spirits.
As the carving neared completion some time during the first watch, he stopped to observe his work, even smiling slightly. As he did so, the spiral tattoo on his chest took on a slight glow at it's center. Xanos immediately stiffened, sheathed the knife, put the carving into a pouch and sat unmoving for nearly a half hour. He eventually laid down on the blanket and stared into the starlit sky.
Though rarely moved, his eyes never closed during the night.
-
Bastich is hagered to say the least. His bordem is catching up to him. He pulls out a deck of cards and pauses for a moment.
"Damn...... Does anyone have a non-loaded deck of cards? I wish to play an honest game with myself."
-
Krag
Rises and takes care of his morning duties, then goes to check on the animals, to make sure they are ready for the day ahead.
-
The hillmen grumble, and get their things together. One of them apparently slept in too late, as the some of the other hillmen dumped hot water on his back. There was a short scuffle, and one of the hillmen ended up with a broken nose and a black eye. But as quickly as it erupted, they return to a jovial and rough agreement that in hindsight it was pretty funny. The one that slept in late, promised he'd drink more water before going to sleep, so he wouldn't keep the rest of them waiting in the morning. Plus you think, he doesn't want to feel hot water on his back anytime soon... When the group heads out, it is plain to see that the rider is in pain from the burns, but he seems to relish it, and grins malevolently at those that dumped the water on him.
Everyone sets out once again, with a brusque hand gesture to hurry up from Ballik. The trail begins to wind more, to try to negate the steep climbs that are becoming more apparent. Several hours into the rough ride, a small tremor can be felt, and then minutes later a slightly smaller tremor. The hillmen look unsettled, but continue on.
-
Xanos shakes his head at the morning antics of the hillmen. "Some things never change." He says with quiet distain.
-
Krag
Wonders what the tremors where, racks his mind for the answer using knowledge from either Druid and or Hunting experience
-
Hakim had carefully watched Xanos the previous night, and wondered to himself what the carving signified. He could not muster the courage to ask, however.
In the morning, Hakim prepared a quick breakfast for himself, which he offered to share with Dorin, Krag, and Bastich. He also made sure the mules were properly fed and watered before the party resumed its journey, and he does his best to calm them down once the tremors start.
-
Krag stops and builds a small altar to Ishtar off the side of the trail. He piles stones upon each other until he has something that should aid him in his means to discover what the tremors actually were. He calls out the name of his goddess to the heavens, and kneels before his altar. He praises the beauty of his goddess, and complements her above all other deities. He calls out for a reason for the tremors, and waits patiently for the answer...
The wind shifts, and changes directions. A hawk flies over head and kills a small bird in mid-air. And Krag hears a voice on the wind that answers his question.
He then praises Ishtar some more, and then catches up to the rest of the group that moved on without him.
-
Krag
On horseback he approaches Xanos, and Hakim. Slows his horse to their pace. Krag softly relays the message: "Ishtar says that there is a sorcerer, hiding himself with Dark Powers, nearby and this Vile Sorcerer has summoned an abysmal creature. This was the cause of the Tremors. We need to proceed very, very carefully"
-
While moving with the group of Hillmen, another larger group can be seen winding down the steeper parts of the trail in your general direction. Banners of white wolf heads (Turan's flag) can be seen at the tail end of the group. It seems that the group is a mix of Hillmen and Turanian soldiers. It will be a little bit before this new group will meet up with you, but you can clearly see them coming down.
Turan has been ever expanding its empire westwards towards Zamora (country that Shadizar the Wicked is in) and it is widely known that Zamora gives Turan tribute. The appearance of Turanian soldiers is interesting politically, so close to the Zamoran border.
-
Hakim, who is Turanian himself, surveys the advancing party of soldiers and hillman warriors. Can he tell how many there are, and distinguish between soldiers and officers? Do any civilians appear to be with them?
-
Hakim sees that there are about 40 Hillmen, and approximately 20 or so Turanians. He thinks they are most likely a scouting party, and should have a ranking officer, and perhaps a lesser officer, with 18 or so Turanian soldiers with them.
-
"Ishtar says that there is a sorcerer, hiding himself with Dark Powers, nearby and this Vile Sorcerer has summoned an abysmal creature. This was the cause of the Tremors. We need to proceed very, very carefully"
Xanos nods to the priest and lets out a slight sigh of patient exasperation. An odd reaction to being told that there are such powerful people about, to be sure. He says nothing.
When the soldiers arrive he studies them clinically, but gives no indication that he understands that their presence has any significance.
-
Brude is riding next to Xanos, his eyes scanning the approaching soldiers for potential trouble. He also is keeping an eye on the sides of the trail, watching out for potential ambushes.
-
Krag
Is used to Xanos's silence when given informaiton, assumes it was heard and there are no further questions about his message.
Noticing the troops Krag slowly drops back to the rear of the wagon.
-
The hillmen upon seeing the oncoming soldiers and hillmen, stop. Some of them whisper to each other. Some of them shake their heads, and others point the way back as they angrily (though quietly) disagree. Ballik holds firm, and does not move ahead anymore. He seems to have a grim determination, and his face is almost unreadable. He motions for Hakim to come forward, and he talks in a quiet but audible voice.
"Merchant... there may be trouble. Our tribe has had much trouble with this tribe that mixes with your kinsfolk. We have been blood bound to hold a peace, but it is a very shaky one at that. I wouldn't be surprised if one word misspoken by our ancient enemy would erupt into a blood bath. If I were you, and your friends, I'd keep my hands on your fine blades. This could get ugly. You Turanians have been pushing us around as of late, and there is also bad blood between my tribe and them. Be warned."
Ballik looks on, seemingly counting his enemies, and wondering if it would come down to a fight, if he would survive.
-
In the semi-cloudy sky, lots of birds seem to be heading West back in the direction of Shadizar. Whether they are fleeing something, or heading towards something else is hard to tell. The strange thing is that predators like hawks seem to be flying closely with smaller birds that they normally eat.
-
While he seems decidedly uninterested in whatever is going on between the hillmen and the Turanians, he eyes the birds with fierce intensity.
"Captain Ballik... are there any groups or individuals known to your people who are said to traffic with dark powers?" he asks while looking up to the strange migration.
-
Ballik looks over at Xanos, and then quickly looks back to the approaching group of Turanians and Hillmen, as that is something that greatly bothers him.
"The only one I know of that is said to have mystical powers are the merchant Kazak that you are attempting to meet with, and our new leader's adviser Johamma Imalla. I couldn't tell you if the powers they traffic with are dark or light, but they have power. Varnast has gathered all of us together, so that we might defend ourselves from you devils to the West, as well as the Turanian dogs to the East."
-
Xanos nods. "This group of soldiers concerns you, captain? Is it likely they will trouble my goals here"
-
Ballik leans over to Xanos, and whispers.
"There may be trouble, and that may impede getting to see Kazak. I may be worrying more than I need to, but my instincts have proven true too many times for me to give up on them now. Be careful."
-
Krag
I am more concerned, NATURE- ly with what is calling all of the animals, and why. I've not seen that many answer a call, nor in such a variety
-
"Keep an eye on them. Hakim, these soldiers are your people. What is your council?"
-
Hakim adjusts his turban, which has been slipping these last few minutes (he is sweating a fair amount, despite the relatively mild temperature). "I council that we keep our hillmen guides back here while I, and perhaps one other member of our party, go to parley with the advancing soldiers. I'd suggest that person be Krag, or possibly Dorin - in any event, someone who isn't easily offended and can hold his tongue in the face of insults."
The Turanian pauses for a moment. "We may have to make a tribute payment in order to pass these folk, but I suspect the price won't be higher than the rewards we hope to find in Kazak's domain."
-
Xanos nods and walks with Hakim a short distance away, out of earshot of Balik and his men. "The hillmen may not care that the equipment we bring is marked, but these soldiers may, and they are certainly organized enough to make reports that would end up in the hands of those with the means to track us down." Xanos rolls his hand over and reveals a half dozen identical rubies, just like the ones he showed in the bar when they had first met. "These should be more than enough."
-
Hakim glances at the rubies and stops breathing for a moment. Then he gingerly gathers them from Xanos' palm, deposits the gems in a belt pouch, and makes a short bow. "Thank you, my lord. I suspect these will suffice to purchase safe passage."
Hakim then walks back to the wagon, mules, and other members of the party. "Krag, I am going forward to parley with the soldiers and hillmen. I would ask that you accompany and support me, as your diplomatic skills are...er, among the best in our company."
-
Hakim glances at the rubies and stops breathing for a moment. Then he gingerly gathers them from Xanos' palm, deposits the gems in a belt pouch, and makes a short bow. "Thank you, my lord. I suspect these will suffice to purchase safe passage."
As they walk back Xanos says in his customary quiet tone "I should hope so. I trust your merchant's instincts to keep this from requiring all of them. You may hold any unspent until we need them again. As the financial expert in this endeavor it is inefficient for you to come to me for every unexpected expense." After a brief pause he continues. "Be careful what you use them for, however. They have some small historic significance, and should any who are familiar with such things identify them, there will be questions I'd rather not bother addressing."
-
Krag
Nudges his horse forward, "I am with you Hakim". Krag mounted on his horse, move up to beside Hakim to parlay with the other turbaned or veiled, black haired, and hook nosed Turanians.
-
Ballik looks over at Krag and Hakim that seem to be moving forward, and nods. It seems he is glad that someone other than him will do the first talking.
The approaching Hillmen and Turanians stop their approach, and upon seeing Krag and Hakim moving forward, they send two of their own envoys forward to parley.
Hakim can tell that the two they are sending are not the leaders of the group, but one Hillman, and one Turanian kick their mounts and move to close distance.
The Hillman is missing one of his ears, and his head looks a little misshapen, as if perhaps he suffered a long fall, or was always shaped that way. He is dressed in rugged furs. The Turanian is wearing heavier armor, and his saddle is very fine and in the Turanian style. He is fairly clean, and seems to care for his appearance.
They both stop 15 feet away from Hakim and Krag. They don't speak and eye up you both, seeming to try to glean what your purpose is in the area.
-
Hakim motions for Krag to stop. He halts the horse that he borrowed from one of the other party members, and raises his hand in a Turanian gesture of greeting.
"Greetings, Captain," the merchant says in the Turanian tongue. "The blessings and wisdom of Erlik be upon you and your countrymen. I am Hakim, a humble" - he bows his head - "merchant and sojourner. My companions and I are en route to Urkira* on a trading mission, and we seek your leave to pass through here peacefully."
* This assumes that the road we're currently on actually leads to Urkira; otherwise Hakim will select another Hillman town in the correct direction.
-
Krag
He casually smiles (not a big grin) and remains still, except where he needs to move with the horse. Krag follows Hakim's lead. He does understand Turainian.
{OOC: spell deleted since Krag suddenly remembered that as a slave his Turanian friend taught him the language}
-
Krags whispered prayer seems not to have been heard by Ishtar.
The Captain looks Krag and Hakim over once again.
"Kazak the Merchant is the only one these Hillmen have allowed to travel in these parts. How is it that you are hear now? I'm guessing you bribed that rag-tag band of bastards behind you to be here?"
At these words the Hillman beside the Captain smiles and looks past you two at the group of Hillmen behind you with no love in his eyes, but he stays stoically quiet.
"Our territory brother is spreading far and wide, and we have just signed a treaty with most of the Hillmen clans and tribes to allow us free passage in these parts, though those behind you did not know that... Being that you are a Turanian merchant, and one that I've heard of on one occassion, I'll overlook this small problem, since now it isn't a problem at all with the new agreement in place."
"The Shah has expanded his reach, and sooner rather than later Zamora will bow prostrate before him, as Erlik has always wanted. War is ready to bloom brother, and red will the petals be."
-
Hakim bows his head in deference and gratitutde. "I thank you, brother captain, for your generous gesture to this humble merchant, to my quiet but honest companions, and to our, er, ragged but solicitous Hillman guides. It would honor me if you and your companion would be generous enough to drink a toast with me and my comrade" - he gestures to Krag - "to the health of our Shah (May He Live Forever) and the success of our nation's recent treaty." From his pack Hakim produces a flask of spirits and several cups.
-
Krag
He follows Hakim's lead, bows his head to the Captain. At Hakim's gesture Krag prepares to cast his prayer for drinks - but halts as Hakim digs into his pack.
-
The Captain smiles broadly, and the Hillman grins slightly and then it vanishes from his face. This one that the Captain is standing beside gives off a creepy vibe, as if by his gestures alone, you can tell that he has performed vile deeds and enjoyed doing them.
Captain
"Where are my manners? I am Captain Alafdhal, and my associate here is Multesh, the Chieftain of a nearby Hillmen clan. He's a ruthless one, but a ruthless friend can be a great boon at times. Thanks for the drink. If you are ever in Turan again, my father is a very rich man, and has need of merchants that can handle themselves. He has posts all over the kingdom in just about every major city. If you mention my name, and show them this coin..."
Alafdhal throws a coin medallion at Hakim, after he pulls it out of his pocket.
"... you will have no problem finding work. Us Turanians must stick together after all... TO THE SHAH! May his glory never fade until his vision of a grand empire is complete."
The Captain and the Hillman both take the drinks, and swig them quickly.
-
Dorin snorts. Watching the exchange with Rannveig from her position a few steps behind and to Xanos's right, he can't help but feel a bit of contempt for the proceedings. He says aloud, "All this talking. Is this how you southerners always spend your time?" He squints and leans forward in the saddle to try and take in the Captain's features, though they're still too far to be heard properly.
Rannveig conceals a smile behind her hand, not letting her brother see.
-
"Patience, Dorin. Life itself is a battle, and sometimes one's best weapon is subtlety. When that fails, it will be your turn."
-
Krag
Gives a cheerful smile and swigs his drink also. "It's a pleasure meeting you both Captain Alafdhal and Multesh. In the future may our paths cross agian."
-
Hakim carefully hangs the medallion around his neck. "Thank you, Captain Alafdhal. I look forward to the day when I can make the acquaintance of your esteemed father, and do business with him. To the Shah, then, and his mighty empire!" Hakim drinks the toast.
"And allow me to propose a second toast: to the honorable Multesh and his brave and proud people!" He pours a second round of drinks.
(Hakim keeps a careful eye on the captain and the hillman leader. He doesn't want them roaring drunk, but he does want them buzzed enough to see him and his companions in a favorable light.)
-
The Captain drinks, and Multesh pauses. He takes a mouthful of the drink and backs up. He spits to the four corners of the world, and then drinks the rest of the drink. Nothing about the man's posture has changed, and it seems it must be a custom of the clan.
Captain Alafdhal
"Thanks for our drinks, now we must be off. Take care, there seems to be an ill will on the wind as of late."
The group of Turanian soldiers and Hillmen moves up and passes your group, giving you space as they pass. Multesh looks over at the smaller group of Hillmen that is accompanying your group and smiles a grim smile.
The tension leaves the air as the group disappears down the trail. The wind changes direction and a stillness takes hold. There are a few sounds of small black and red birds chirping to one another. Dust can still be seen where the horses have just gone, leaving you all to decide your fates.
-
Krag
After the Turanians have left, as our group is gathering to move on.
Krag actively searches the nature around him. looking for signs - like the birds, earlier that appeared to have been summoned.
-
As the patrol of soldiers passes Xanos turns to Captain Balik and gestures toward the road, waiting for him to continue leading them deeper into the hills.
-
Krag finds 9 medicinal plants, and stows them away for when they are needed.
Ballik looks relieved that there was no bloodshed. He moves up to where Krag and Hakim are, and pats them on the back.
"I think you lads just saved me and my folk our lives. We will make sure to take some extra time hunting this night, and you two shall be honored with a feast."
Ballik and his men continue on through the rugged foothills, and the strange curved and bent trees of the area start to become thicker. They have long thin leaves that blow in the wind, and it seems like the branches and trunks of the trees are drunk on their slow way up to the sun for none of them are straight, and curve in on themselves over and over again.
Towards the evening after a long arduous trek on the trail, one of the scouts reports to Ballik that there may be some problems. One of the other scouts has not reported back, but his horse did, and it was covered in blood, and had one of its ears bitten off. Ballik halts the group.
-
(Previously):
Hakim nods to Captain Ballik. "We appreciate your generosity, captain." He then returns the horse he's riding to whomever he borrowed it from, and resumes accompanying the wagon and mules on foot - which is where we find him when the scout's bloodied horse returns sans rider.
-
Krag
Graciously and Humbly accept Ballik's thanks. He also returns to following behind the group.
-
When the blood-covered horse returns, Xanos looks to Brude with his usual unfazed expression. "Whatever caused this may still be around."
-
While you are all worried about what lies ahead, and why a scout is now missing, something seems to be happening back in the city of Shadizar the Wicked...
A storm the likes of which none of you have ever seen (even Xanos) seems to be concentrated around the city of Shadizar. You can see the city in the distance, because you are now standing at a much higher elevation, and the landscape opens up before you like a great wide painting. The storm seems to be swirling around the city at a fast rate, and great lightning strikes can be seen in great numbers striking down on the large city like the fierce arms of an angry god. Strike after strike seems to be taking a toll, and large buildings seem to be falling, as a dust cloud starts to rise above the city.
And high in the sky where you now stand, the sun is slowly being covered by a blackness that is starting to dim its heat and light.
The Hillmen stare behind them and smile, but then when the sun begins to darken, they look fearful and seem to loose their courage.
Ballik gets off his horse and comes over to Xanos.
"Lord, I assume that one such as you know knows of such things, and why they must be happening. Tell us, what your arcane powers say to you of such calamities. Is this the end for which our shaman has told us since childhood? Shall the end come, and our lives end with it? It is a shame that I should die with strangers, and not with my wife and child. How scared they must be right now."
-
Xanos watches the storm raging over the city with characteristic dispassion, a striking contrast to the shock and worry of the hillmen and his companions.
"This is not a natural storm, that much is obvious. I suspect that the things we have witnessed are all connected. Someone is laying war upon Shadizar. The soldiers we came upon earlier are likely an advance group. We should be careful of a larger force moving through the area. Come nightfall I will see what else I can divine."
-
Brude had moved close, ready to intercept Balik if Xanos had deigned not to speak with him. Seeing that Xanos was done, Brude grabbed Balik's arm, and pulled him back.
"Balik, do you know of a strong place that we can hold near hear? We must get there before nightfall so my Master can make his preparations without being disturbed."
-
Krag
Krag will go over to the bloody horse and see if he can help the animal. Perhaps by using a healing plant. As much as the horse will allow Krag will also examine its wounds.
-
Ballik thinks for a moment, and then nods.
"There is an ancient ruin that we use sometimes to defend ourselves when the clans and tribes are warring with each other. It is a safe place that should protect us, at least for a little while. It is fairly close. We will have to follow this trail to get there however. I am still not sure what has killed my man, but I fear we will soon find out."
Krag soothes the animal, by talking to it in a calm voice. With the help of a few Hillmen that see what Krag is doing, they are able to calm the animal enough for Krag to apply a paste of one of the plants, after he chews it in his mouth. The bleeding stops, and it is plain to see that the animal is no longer in pain.
The group starts moving out again, and there is tension in the ranks. Their eyes comb the sides of the trail searching for something that will more than likely jump out of them.
-
Hakim readily consents to moving the caravan into a more protected area. He is usually leery of ancient ruins, but imagines it would be better to shelter there than run the risk of encountering more soldiers, or another storm such as the one currently shattering Shadizar.
-
"Krag, please ensure that no one cleans that horse. I will need it once we arrive."
-
Krag
Looks at Xanos and makes a circle with his thumb and forefinger keeping the other three upright. Krag gives the reins of his horse to someone in the party to lead and walks the bloody horse - keeping anything or anyone from touching it anymore.
-
After some time, a ruined structure of standing stones with a partially covered roof appears at the top of the hill. The hillmen seemed relieved. From behind you, the sounds of large unknown things are crashing through the undergrowth, and some of the smaller trees can be seen shaking, or falling.
-
Xanos wastes no time.
"Captain Ballik, give me a defensive assessment. Brude, aid him. Krag, like before, I'd like your help with the circle. There is no danger from within this time, but I'd like you to guard against what may be without. Many Demons and some adepts can sense when magics are done near them. I'd rather not give away our position, or pique the curiosity of whatever that summoning earlier brought to this world. Dorin, when it comes time, I'll need you to hold the horse in place an make sure that no matter what happens, it does not leave the circle. Bastich, you said you know something of Blood Magics. Join me. Hakim, the camp is yours."
-
Krag
Hands the reins of the horse to Dorin and assists Xanos with the circle.
-
Brude
"Ballik, let's get your men into defensive positions. Two at each opening should do for now. Are there any archers that you think could make it up onto the roof? It looks like there are a few places, there and there, that could hold a man or two."
-
Hakim brings the caravan into the stone structure (assuming it's large enough to hold everyone). He ties up the mules, places wooden blocks under the wagon's wheels to immobilize them, and makes sure the cargo is secure. Then, time permitting, he goes to see if Brude and Ballik could use another sword. He suspects they could.
-
"Finally have something for me to do boss?"
Bastich grabs his supply's and jogs over.
"Wow, I almost never get to play around with this stuff anymore. There was that cat........ but I don't like to talk about that. Long story short, they do not in fact have nine lives."
Bastich pulls out a dried piece of jerky.
"Want a snack?"
-
"A simple blood divination. Have you performed them before?"
Xanos says to Bastich, seeming a bit distracted and gazing out into the darkness.
-
"Yea, I'm pretty sure. How far are we looking to go with this one?"
Biting into the meat he had just offered.
-
Xanos walks in a circle, pouring black sand from a bag into precise lines and shapes as he speaks.
"This blood is not the animal's, which should make the process easier. I also suspect that nothing human did this. I'd like you to bring up a vision of what happened to the horse and it's rider. Once I see that, I should be able to do my own divination off of what I see, using the same circle at the same time. You may experience some strange-feeling feedback, but it will not harm you Just ignore it and hold onto your weave. If the vision confirms my suspicions, I will be able to track the creature that did this back to it's source."
-
Krag
"That creature may be on the offensive and coming our way. What do you want me to do, besides hold the horse in place, Xanos."
-
"Stake the horse down in the center of the circle and be sure it does not pull free. If we come under attack, we may abandon the ritual. Defense is more important, and this kind of magic is not inherently dangerous. Just make sure the beast cannot run off. It makes no difference if it is alive or dead, but it is all for naught if it spooks and runs."
-
"Please stake it down or kill it, I'm having hard enough time remembering how to do this without a horse kicking me."
Bastich starts preping his tools. He lays them on the ground just outside the circle. He pulls out a book and starts thumbing through it. Bastich grabs a knife from his pouch and tosses it to Krag.
"If it so much as takes a dump then slit it throat, and if you do please collect its blood. I could use some more. Also horse meat tastes pretty good."
He closes the book
"OK, I think I'm ready."
-
"If the horse dies, we risk mixing the blood. That complicates things. Simply keep it calm."
-
Krag and Xanos get queasy feelings about the things that are making noises and coming in your direction. They feel unnatural, and when they appear, Xanos and Krag think they will not be pleasant to look upon.
The trees and brush are shaking in the distance still from whatever is coming near to your location. They are not being secretive. A high pitched wailing howl and low guttural and deep booming growl can be heard coming from the direction. It does not ease your fears for what is coming.
The horse looks terrified. The hillmen do not look pleased when Xanos and Bastich start making arcane marks and making magic circles. Some of them look angry, but their survival instincts kick in and they look in the direction of the woods to the unknown horrors that seem adamant to do violence.
There won't be much time before they will make their shape known to you all.
http://darveshill.bravehost.com/conan.html
-
Xanos looks to the tree line a ways away and sighs.
"It never fails." He shakes his head. "Stake it down. We're about to have visitors."
-
Krag
I do my best to stake it down, tie it down, keep calming the horse. Use Bastich's knife to cut the rope and tie another section.
After getting the horse secured, about 4 loops around his neck - tied into different directions. and two ropes also to secure his hind quarters. I guess left leg tied to the right and the right leg secured to the left, and back.
If time remains try to identify what is approaching by the sounds I hear. Prayer to Ishtar for her guidance and knowledge of what is coming.
-
Everyone has time to do one thing that would take about a minute of time to perform, then the things will break free of the tree cover, and you will see them at the bottom of the battle map.
-
Hakim makes sure the wagon and mules are secured, then draws his scimitar and moves to E9, behind the standing stone and next to the Hillman warrior in F9.
-
"Xanos.."Bastich has a worried look on his face. "I don't mean to ruin your confidence in me but all I can think about is that cat now. I mean it made my master vomit and I have seen him vivisect things."
-
"Everyone has to start somewhere." Xanos replies simply. "Right now we need blood. Ours, and quite a bit of it."
"Demons come!" Xanos thunders to the group, using a tone none here have heard from him before. It is not the calm, low voice of a philosopher or teacher. It is the steeled voice of kings, expecting and demanding that their commands be obeyed without question. The rasp of metal scraping on metal underscores the authority, like someone pronouncing words by twisting iron. It is faint, but not imagined, and entirely unnatural. "I need a line of blood encircling the ruins. Cut your hands, let it spill along the ground and smear across the stone. Do it now."
He looks back to Bastich. "It does not have to be perfect." He says. His irises have enlarged, and colored over with chrome, wavering like pools of quicksilver in his eyes. "A circle of blood is never about the blood. It is about the aura of life, which always connects to itself. That is why blood magic is the easiest to perform, and the easiest to make mistakes with. Now go. We don't have much time."
With that he pulls the thin, curved blade from it's sheathe at his waist and begins moving toward the broken walls.
-
Krag
Goes to the nearest stone, cuts his left hand (off weapon) and covers as much distance as he can. (Movement 30 - though I assume he is a bit slower). Encourages his friends and nearby hillmen to help make the circle.
-
Brude
With his sword in his hand, Brude slowly goes through a series of moves, stretching out before what is to come.
-
Hakim steps out in front of the standing stones in E9, cuts his left palm (his off-weapon hand) with his scimitar, and begins helping Krag draw the circle of blood. He periodically looks up, with an increasingly anxious expression on his bearded face, to see if he can spot the approaching enemies.
-
Brude
Brude tilts his head to one side and then the other, cracking his neck. Then he stands calmly watching the woods, waiting for his work to begin.
-
Dorin and Rannveig
Dorin throws a glance his sister's way, and waves her over to him. "Allow me your blade for a moment, sister." She hands it over without preamble, not arguing in the face of the moment's necessary haste. He lays open his left forearm with a grunt, then motions her further down the line.
The siblings set to work with a will. Dorin, at least, rarely approves of sorcery, but when faced with demons, one takes what aid one can get.
-
Creatures that seem half man and half something else, burst free from the treeline and are running at a very quick rate. They look frothing mad, and seem to have unnatural movements, and limbs that bend in strange ways. They howl and stretch their arms outwards and lift their clawed hands up high in a threatening motion. Blood is pouring from their eyes, ears, and nostrils and drips down to cover them in splattered crimson.
They look like this (minus the cape and bloodier of course). http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M91L9C1exAg
You barely manage to finish the line of blood around the ruins, making sure to keep everyone inside the line.
Death is approaching and looks hungry.
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What will you all do this turn?
-
"Stay inside the circle" Xanos snaps and raises his arms. The runes on his body shine like metal and he speaks a short phrase in an ancient, alien tongue...
-
Brude
Brude waits with a calm patience, ready to unleash violence on any creature foolhardy enough to get close to him (D10). Out of the corner of his eye, he watches where Xanos is at all times.
-
Hakim turns pale, and beads of sweat trickle from beneath his turban and run down his temples. He tightens his grip on his scimitar, and prepares to receive the shock of the demons' first attack...
-
Dorin and Rannveig
Dorin slings his hammer to his hands and settles his grip, his knuckles popping. Any demon that tries to pass him will come to regret it shortly.
Rannveig moves to stand near Xanos, wordlessly offering her help in his magics, but her sword is drawn, and she looks around the ring alertly.
-
Bastich and Krag assist Xanos in casting the blood circle protection spell. Xanos by uttering the ancient arcane words completes the spell, and the blood in the circle starts to bubble and boil. A green fire erupts along the ring, and shapes and forms can be seen dancing and shapechanging in a joyous fashion in the jade flames.
The stones themselves reflect an eerie green light, and words that were once as plain as the noses on your faces can now be read again where they once were carved. Ancient runes that have since faded in time can be read, and then for some reason you can all understand what they say, but at the same time forget what they mean. It's as if the words cannot be contained in a single human skull, but the power of the words can be felt to the core of your beings, in the center of your bones, in your souls. It seems that the Hillmen were right, in that this was indeed a place of defense, and the blood and Xanos' spell have reawakened some ancient pact with the spirits of this powerful place.
Rannveig moves over to Xanos and tries to protect him, and aid him if she can.
The creatures continue sprinting towards the ruined standing stones, but slow as they get nearer, it seems some arcane intellect resides in their bestial brains, and they move to circle the stones. One of them barks in a very guttural way, that may be some sort of language, and the rest of them start chanting in a droning unintelligible way. The sound of the words makes some of the hairs rise up on the back of your necks, because they are uttering sounds that no human throat could utter. They make sure to stay just out of reach behind the circle, and up close at this range, their disgusting features are more evident. It is plain to see that they mean you harm, and you can feel their power washing over you, even with the protective circle between you and them.
Xanos begins to have an intense pain forming in his head, like the onset of a headache that seems doomed to blossom into a full blown migraine.
http://darveshill.bravehost.com/conan.html
What does everyone do?
-
Xanos simply closes his eyes and grits his teeth. His will is a thing unique among men. These small fiends are as nothing compared to what he has dealt with. This pain will not best him.
-
Hakim grits his teeth and holds his ground. He keeps his head up but tries not to make eye contact with the demons, for fear that they may have hypnotic powers.
-
The creatures continue to bark and chant in an animal like tongue. They also cut their legs, and leave a trail of copious amounts of green blood where they move. They also collect some of this blood and throw it to their right and left, making their circle mostly whole. Xanos, Krag, and Bastich think that they look like they are trying to do something to combat the protective abilities of the circle. One of the creatures (the one in A8) reaches out and touches one of the standing stones and pulls back a smoking hand. It howls in pain and barks some angry words.
It looks like they need to do more work still to complete their circle.
Xanos is feeling really strange, and one of his left arms spasms violently in the air. The pain in his head has increased, and he now has a -1 penalty to all dice rolls.
What does everyone do? Does anyone fire arrows at them? Does anyone have arrows?
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-
"Fire thought he Barrier. Disrupt the chanting." Xanos says through gritted teeth. "Brude, get those soldiers moving!"
-
The soldiers appear very shaken, and may need some convincing to do anything. Many of them are saying the prayer of the dead, that some of the Hillmen are known to say in dark times. Even Ballik the leader, is praying. Being face to face with demons wasn't quite what he had expected when he woke up this morning.
-
Brude
Brude sheaths his sword in one smooth motion as he draws his bow. He advances (D10) and starts firing at the demon in front of him (E).
He also starts shouting at the hillmen.
"Fire your bows, you mangy sons of goats!!!
Where are the Hillmen that were with me? All I am seeing are Hill women! And ugly ones at that!
Come on, start firing, you can do it!!!
Fire them now before I come over there, rip your head off, and throw it at them!!!"
-
Hakim was very nearly hypnotized by the demons and their chanting. Brude's battlefield speech seems to clear the fog from his brain, however. He shakes his head, sheathes his scimitar, and begins stringing his short bow - wincing a little as more blood drips from the hand he slashed. When he is ready he begins firing arrows at the nearest demon [the one marked E on the map], assuming Brude hasn't cut it down by then.
-
Krag
Krag will step back (5 foot to G6) draw and fire an arrow at creature F in I8.
-
Dorin snarls back at the creatures, matching their rage with his own. He tightens his grip on his hammer, his own prayers silent in his mind. Breath is better spent smashing one's enemies, and Ymir know this as well as his followers do.
The Aesir may not be a priest, and Ymir is not a generous God, but in his own way, Dorin is as devout as any, and his requests are fervent. Let me prove the strength of my arm this day, Lord Ymir. Bring one of my foes within reach, and I'll have all I need.
-
Brude manages to motivate half of the Hillmen soldiers, and they begin to pepper some of the chanting Demons with arrows that ignite with green flames when they cross the blood circle ring.
Brude fires as well, but misses. It seems all of the arrows that cross the blood circle ring ignite with green flames (which wasn't a benefit of Xanos' spell).
Hakim fires as well, but he misses. The evil chanting seems to unnerve his aim.
Krag moves and fires, winging a Demon with his flaming green arrow.
Xanos' hands are quivering, and he feels the intense pain growing in his head.
Three of the Demons were wounded by the green flaming arrows (Demons B, E, and F), and they snarl in response.
Bastich fuels the blood protection circle with more power, and tries to concentrate on keeping the protective circle from collapsing from the onslaught of the Demon chanting.
Everyone that fires an arrow feels like something is aiding them, and it feels like someone walked over their graves, as the hair on the back of their neck rises...
The Demons begin to float above the ground, with their blood dripping down from their outstretched arms, and legs. They hover several feet in the air, as if invisible hands are holding them above the surface of the world.
The light of the whole area seems to dim slightly and unnaturally. There isn't any noticeable cloud above.
The blood beneath them starts to move on its own and completes their oily green blood circle. There is a concussive force that hits you in the chest like a wave, like a loud strong sound, and like being kicked in the guts. Your hair on your heads shifts as if wind is moving it, but the source of the wind is unseen.
The ground begins to quake, and you can see their larger blood circle sinking into the ground, seemingly eating the soil where it lies... sinking deeper and deeper, seeming to carve a trench around the entire structure.
Their chanting becomes more varied and chaotic. It is a hideous dirge; the sound of a wailing children; the cacophony of a thousand smashed instruments; the sound of inhuman voices and impossible notes. It is a hellish noise barely related to a song.
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What does everyone do?
-
Brude
Brude throws his bow down in disgust and draws his sword.
"Demons!!! Enough of your foul screeching. Return to the Hell that spawned you!!!"
He then makes a mighty leap forward, swinging with all of his might at the demon in front of him.
-
Xanos believes that he must at least attempt to keep the magical circle intact, or it will crumble from the magical onslaught it now faces from the demons creatures.
(5+5) + Mind4 + Magician2 = 16 - 2 = 14 success. Bastich also helps keep the lines of the spell intact.
Xanos locks his mind on the magical circle and puts up a resistance to their destructive spell. The pain in his mind increases however. He might begin to have a feeling of dread, as the pain is starting to be a noticeable detractor to holding the magical circle in place. Xanos now suffers a -3 penalty to all dice rolls.
Brude
Brude throws his bow down in disgust and draws his sword.
"Demons!!! Enough of your foul screeching. Return to the Hell that spawned you!!!"
He then makes a mighty leap forward, swinging with all of his might at the demon in front of him.
(5+4) + Strength4 + Melee2 + 2 Cool Bonus = 17 (minus defense) = Hit.
4 + 5 = 9 damage to Demon E. His downward stroke severs the creatures outstretched arm at the shoulder, and his blade crunches it's way into the beasts ribcage. The chanting of the other demons continues, but the now floating chunk of ground sways, and tilts, and then crashes back down to the ground from which it left. It seems part of the spell has been interrupted. The demon creature falls at Brude's feet, and a dark cloud of flies leaves the creatures mouth, eyes, and ears, as well as from the large bleeding cut that Brude's sword just made. The creature shrinks in size, until it looks like a normal ape-like creature.
Krag fires another arrow at Demon F, and the arrow once again catches fire.
(6+6!) + Agility2 + Ranged1 + Hunter Ability 2 + 2 (something extra) = 19 (minus defense) = Hit.
Krag's arrow flies like vengeance itself, and skewers the Demon Creature right in the eye, and the tip of the arrow comes out of its left ear. It falls down like a sack of potatoes, and more flies escape the now deceased shell that once contained them.
Hakim seeing that Demon E and F are now dead (I guess) fires at Demon G.
(6+2) Ranged2 + Agility2 + 2 (something extra) = 14 (minus defense) = Hit
5 + 1 + 2Green Flames = 8 damage.
The arrow hits one of the creatures arms, and pins it to the side of his chest. He unleashes a Hellish roar as the green flames lick the side of his body.
Rannveig gives Xanos some support, and lets him concentrate more on resisting the pain in his head. For some reason, this lessons the headache back down to a -2 penalty.
Dorin finds a fairly large sized chunk of rock, and heaves it over his head. He grunts and screams as he lets loose the flying boulder, aiming at the body of Demon D. To his surprise, the boulder is coated in green flames as it crosses the magical circle.
(7+3) + Strength4 + Ranged0 + 2(something extra) = 16 (minus defense) = Hit.
4 + 6 + 4Strength + 2Green Flames = 16 damage!
The flaming boulder smashes the face and neck of Demon D into its chest. It crumples to the ground and flies emerge from their flesh casing.
Hillmen H5 & H6 fire green flaming arrows at Demon G, and manage to finish him off.
Hillmen H7 & H8 fire at Demon I, and their green flaming arrows manage to slay that demon as well.
The other demons are wounded, but they are not killed.
In response to only having 4 of their number left. They open their mouths, and flies emerge like a black cloud, and then they disperse to the four corners of the world.
Combat is now over, but Xanos persistent headache remains. Although Rannveig is helping, he knows it is going to get worse.
Other Effects
Xanos' headache has gotten worse, and his left and right hands are visibly shaking (-2 to all dice rolls).
-
Xanos lowers his hands and the mystic barrier falls. He stands like a tree ready to fall, but refuses to collapse. he grunts and rubs his gloved hand over his eyes, then looks at his hand as it shakes.
He looks to Raenveig and nods his thanks.
"Bastitch" he says, "I am afraid it will be you leading the divination and I assisting. That was more taxing than I had anticipated."
-
Hakim exhales, sets down his bow, leans against one of the standing stones, and slumps to the ground. He takes out his waterskin and drinks the rest of the contents. Then, remains seated for several minutes, staring glassy-eyed at the remains of the demons and the wreckage left by the battle.
Eventually, he rises to his feet, and begins looking to see if anyone is injured, or if any of the Hillmen have deserted.
-
The Hillmen are greatly shaken, and many of them seem to be numb, or in a state of disbelief that they are still living.
Xanos' headache continues to increase in intensity.
-
"This...is not...right." Xanos strains. He searches himself for answers, trying to figure out what might be the cause of this strange build up of pain and energy.
-
Krag,
Krag comes over to Xanos, lays his hands on Xanos's head and prays to Ishtar for healing.
"Mother Ishtar, reach down here and take away the pain, this man is experiencing. We thank you for all you do for us and give to us. Beautiful goddess."
-
Brude chops up the ape like creatures to make sure that they are truly dead.
-
Krag feels completely ignored, discarded even, as if the goddess refuses to answer or send aid. Krag even begins to feel slightly nauseous right after his request. This feeling retreats once he removes his hands from Xanos.
Something strange is indeed going on.
-
Krag
Backs away from Xanos, thinks to himself "That was weird, does he reject everyone that tries to heal him like that" Giving Xanos a disgusted look.
Krag looks at the horse he has immobilized, and says, "Are you still going to attempt to gather information from the blood on the horse? If not we should not continue to keep her tied up like this"
-
Xanos looks around the circle, and his eyebrows raise as if something has dawned on him. He grits his teeth against the pain and attempts to leave the circle of stones.
-
Xanos' attempt to leave the circle of standing stones utterly fails. He is hurled 10 feet back in a violent fashion, and lands on his back. His head hits the ground, and the world around him spins as he suffers a minor and temporary vertigo sensation. Xanos' headache is brutally painful at this point, and even speaking is a difficult task.
The Hillmen seeing this make some sort of religious gesture, that appears to be some sort of warding against evil, and they flee the circle of standing stones. They still remain in the area however, and stare at Xanos.
Ballik, the head Hillmen starts muttering to two of the nearest Hillmen.
-
"This...place...Not warding...Containment...Break...circle...of...blood..."
-
Krag
Krag is busy with the horse that is bound in the middle, checking her over as much as possible without touching her. So as not to disrupt the blood.
-
Brude grabs an arm and torso of one of the ape creatures and uses it to smear the blood circle.
-
Even after the blood circle is smeared and "broken" Xanos' intense headache remains. Xanos' mind whirls like a drunk whirling dervish. It seems the stones themselves perhaps are the cause, or some other unseen and unknown force. Xanos is also starting to get lethargic, and it is very difficult to continue to stand.
-
Brude
Brude looks at the standing stones and picks one that seems to be leaning a bit already.
"Dorin, help me push this over!!!" says Brude as he starts to push at it with his muscles rippling.
-
Dorin
Dorin gapes for just a moment at the strangely quiet scene, then shakes his head to clear it and flings himself at the stone with a roar, shoulder first, putting his massive frame behind it.
-
Krag
Krag continues to concentrate on the horse. trying to soothe her and calm her down. To prepare her for Xanos's idea.
-
It takes the two very large men several minutes of straining before the rock begins to move. At first it only slightly budges, and then with a rocking motion they are able to eventually topple over the stone.
In Xanos' mind, he envisions and feels something like a rope snapping, and with a final concussive force his headache completely vanishes, and he once again seems in charge of all of his senses and in control of his bodily functions.
The Hillmen have gathered themselves together, and they are starting to get back on their horses. It looks as if they are planning to leave without you.
-
Xanos stares at the stones, stands upright as if nothing has happened and chuffs out a curt breath.
"They have the right idea. This place is no longer safe."
He looks at Bastich
"Our divinations will have to wait."
To Dorin and Brude, he says "This place was made to keep out certain types of energy, and others in. Apparently my own energies are close enough to have been affected. Thank you."
To Krag he asks "Did you attempt to aid me with a prayer to Ishtar a moment ago?"
-
Krag
To Krag he asks "Did you attempt to aid me with a prayer to Ishtar a moment ago?"
Having not found any wounds on the horse, from the battle or otherwise, Krag thinks the blood doesn't belong to the horse. He begins loosening the ropes holding the horse, preparing it to move again. After hearing Xanos, Krag responds, "Yes, I tried a basic healing spell to relieve the pain you were experiencing"
-
"Nothing happened? This confirms my thoughts on the matter. This is, or was, a circle of binding. Powerful magics in this place are meant to block off connections to the outer realms and outer powers. I believe Ishtar simply could not hear you."
-
Krag
"That is exactly what it seemed like happened"
Krag continues his work on the horse.
-
Hakim finally staggers to his feet. The battle seems to have taken a lot out of him, but his expression is now resolute. He heads over to Captain Ballik [who is probably mounting his horse along with the other Hillmen]. "Good captain, you and your men have fought bravely and well, but I think it would be best to destroy the bodies of our foes before we quit this place. Demons have a reputation for coming back to life even if they are slain and chopped to bits. Would some of your men join us in gathering wood and immolating the demons' remains? I am sure your ancestral gods would smile on the endeavor.
-
Ballik looks very angry at first, and he seems even close to displaying some violence, and then changes his mind. He looks over his men, and chooses two out of the midst of them.
"Crato and Manx, help them dispose of the... bodies. Then lead them to their destination. We are leaving. After you have lead them to the Merchant, meet us at the valley of the large rock."
With that the majority of the Hillmen move off, and leave two of their number with you. It seems the displays of the recent battle have unnerved them greatly.
-
Xanos ignores the hillmen, and looks around the landscape.
"Brude, we should be making our way soon. It is no longer a refuge."
-
Brude grabs his horse and brings Xanos' over to him.
-
"My lord," Hakim calls to Xanos, "if we can wait just a few more minutes, we can dispose of the demons' bodies and ensure that their remains will not re-form and attempt to follow us. Then Crato and Manx" - he gestures to the two remaining Hill-men - "can guide us to our next destination."
-
Xanos nods, taking his horse. He mounts with a practiced ease and rides to the edge of the circle, scanning the surroundings.
"Be quick." he says simply.
-
The two remaining Hillmen do whatever is asked, and dispose of the bodies in whatever fashion is required of them. These must be hard men, because they barely show how freaked out they actually are.
-
With the task at hand finished, the Hillmen don't really seem to speak much, or really care much. They seem to have latched on to Hakim, and follow him around as if he is now their commander.
-
Krag
"Now that that's done - are we off to see the merchant or do you want to check out this poor horse? - Obviously not here."
-
Xanos rubs his head a moment.
"Rarely have I run into a venture with so many complications. The horse was intended to reveal the nature of the previous attackers." He glances to the remains of the demon Dorin killed. I suspect we know the answer. Let us move on."
-
Crato and Manx nod and start moving off into the wilderness, seemingly expecting the rest of you to follow. They don't seem to care if you don't follow them. They aren't very sociable, and you guess they were left behind for various reasons other than being the best guides.
The paths they take are rugged and at times the wagon needs a little extra help to get over the rough terrain. You travel for the rest of the day and then Crato and Manx lead the group to a clearing next to a steep incline of rocky spires that pierce the sky high above.
They begin to make a campfire, and say little to nothing to anyone.
-
"I will take first watch" says Brude.
Brude then climbs one of the rocky spires where he can keep an eye on the camp and the surrounding area.
-
Xanos sits and mixes his customary tea near the fire. Once settled he turns his attentions to Ranveig's study of writing, patiently correcting her and teaching her as she fills and erases the slate board time and time again.
-
Krag
Looks around for fresh water to clean the bloodied horse. Upon finding a stream or whatever finds a good spot downriver from camp and cleans up the horse. After the horse and dinner, as night is rolling in and camp is made, Krrag says, "I can take the last watch".
-
Crato and Manx are playing some sort of dice game with a small pouch in the center. Manx apparently wins, and then grabs the bag up for himself. He pulls out several leaves from the bag and starts to chew them. Crato looks rather angry, but seems resigned to the fact that he lost. It also appears that Manx is getting ready to lie down, and Crato will also be watching.
-
The night passes, camp is struck, and the process begins a new. Crato mumbles something about probably arriving at the location where the merchant is, and then goes back into his anti-social self.
The path is very narrow and a few times the wheels nearly fall off the edge of the path, but you manage to avoid watching the wagon plummet into the depths below. The path winds around the edge of a mountain peak, and it is a little precarious, especially with the gusts of wind that happen randomly.
-
Krag
Attunes himself with the nature in the area and the weather and tries to assist in predicting possible troublesome events.
If I sense a particularly strong gust of wind coming, I will pray to Ishtar for aid in directing them away from us.
-
Krag senses that there are no storms coming, but he does sense a general "wrongness" with the lands and areas nearby. He feels the delicate balance of nature has been tilted, and done for nefarious reasons, though those reasons are uncertain.
The two Hillmen that are left, wait for you to follow them.
-
Dorin
Dorin grunts and unslings his hammer, intending to use it as a overlarge walking stick to help ensure his footing, looking forward to try and pick out where to place his feet. He gestures the others to go ahead, not trusting his bulk to the path first.
Rannveig
Rannveig looks nervously between the path, Dorin, and Xanos.
-
Brude
Let's go, no sense waiting here.
-
After several hours, you crest the top of the mountain, and the trail begins to weave the rest of the way back down the other side. You can see for miles, and one of the hillmen grunts and points down to a large gathering of horses and hillmen, as well as a very large tent of vibrant colors next to a very ancient looking pile of stones and broken pillars. Smoke is pouring out of the ruins, and the sound of screaming and undulating screams and noises can be heard even from this distance.
Xanos' skin crawls, as he recognizes that the words being screamed to the heavens are of the blackest infernal tongue that he hoped had been forgotten to the world of men.
The sun beats down, and it looks like it will be a hot and arid day.
-
Xanos grits his teeth.
"The merchant?" he asks the hillman who pointed.
-
The two Hillmen grunt and nod, and then continue on down the hill regardless if you follow or not.
-
Brude loosens his sword, "It is going to be one of those days."
-
Krag
Krag estimates the distance and how long it will take us to get to the tent.
-
Krag estimates that they should be there before night fall.
-
Krag
We continue to follow the two hillmen to the merchant.
-
It takes all day, but your group finally gets close to the ruins, and to the multi-colored tent. The Hillmen stop and ask if you want to enter the camp, or wait until morning. Why they wait for your answer, they sit down on the ground and have something to eat from their packs.
-
"Now. I have run out of patience for this venture."
-
Brude swings off his horse and starts towards the tent. He draws his sword and swings it back and forth to stretch his arm and work the kinks out of his shoulder after the long ride.
"Accursed mountains and now this foul ruin with more damn hillmen. Can no one here smell the the stench of evil coming from that tent? I am already tired of this place, and someone here is going to pay for it."
-
Krag
Goes up to the Hillmen, "Is there an advantage that we should wait until morning? Otherwise I think you should introduce Lord Xanos to the merchant Kazak"
-
The hillmen look up at Krag.
"If you want to go towards the ruins or to that tent, you best be on with you. We got you here, and we are not entering camp until the morning. Kazak is known to be strange at night..."
-
So, there is a big tent, some old ruins with some hideous ritual going on, and there is the larger part of the camp that is behind the tent, with more Hillmen moving around.
Tell me what everyone in the group is doing, because it might matter in a few moments in game time... :)
-
Brude is heading towards the hideous ritual with his sword drawn and a grumpy expression.
-
Krag
Krag was talking with the hillmen, and now prepares the animals for camp
-
Dorin
Dorin spares Xanos and Rannveig a glance, and then unshoulders his hammer and heads after Brude. "Finally, something to fight!"
-
Xanos arches an eyebrow, seemingly more amused by his companions sudden bloodthirst than with the possible danger brought on by their actions. He simply follows.
-
Rannveig
My guess is she would follow her brother and teacher (wanna be lover) toward Kazak's camp
Krag
Will continue to break camp by the hillmen, but will keep an eye on his companions.
-
The group comes over a small hill, and the can see most of what is going on because of the moonlight (there is a full moon) and because there are torches and large fires near the ruins. Lots of Hillmen seem to be continuously feeding these fires, and even this far away you can feel the heat of them when the direction of the wind changes. On the other side of the large camp, you can barely hear the sound of axes chopping more wood for the fires.
There are six tall black spires of rock that seem to have been recently excavated. Large piles of earth are surrounding the camp. The firelight reflects eerily off of the spires, and the sound of chanting can be heard. Ten blue robed figures are standing around the spires, and they are holding their hands. It appears like there may be blood dripping off of their clasped hands.
In the center of the six spires are two figures. One is a very heavy fellow dressed in very flashy and vibrant cloth (who you think is Kazak the Merchant), and the other one is naked, and it seems like bleeding wounds cover his body. The wounds seem to be arcane symbols, and he is standing in his own blood. This naked figure, seems very similar to you all. He looks very much like Xanos... and he is holding a certain object that Xanos has been searching for for a very long time...
The Hillmen look really freaked out, but they continue to put freshly chopped wood on the large fires. You notice they give the ring of blue-clad chanting figures a wide berth when possible.
No one has noticed you as of yet (it isn't in initiative yet), so if you want to make a plan, or come from different places on the map that is fine. Make sure you let me know when you move, to what square you are moving to with a letter and number designation.
-
Here is the map:
http://darveshill.bravehost.com/bolpbp.html
(I'll put it in my signature).
-
Brude
Brude charges forward as quietly as he can while dodging through the ruins. He heads straight for the closest blue robed figure (g9) and take a mighty swing at him. While approaching he looks closely at the pillar (g8) as he decides his next move.
-
Krag
Will cast a zone of silence centered on Kazak (g7), as large as I can make it. Hopefully 2 squares preferably 3 squares.
-
Dorin
Dorin's heavy boots pound the ground as he charges forward, his battle roar tearing through the air. He tears past Brude and his combatant on the left, his hammer held in front of him to ram the man in the robe into the pillar behind. He snarls at the man, his eyes filled with the red rage of combat.
-
Rannveig
Rannveig shakes her head after her brother, making a wordless call out to him for caution before remembering herself and her mouth clicks shut. Her head turns to Xanos, her hand on her sword, a silent plea echoing from her eyes.
-
Surprise Round (Before They Spot You)
Xanos starts cutting himself like a goth on prom night. He is digging a wicked looking dagger into his chest and arms, outlining arcane tattoos that he researched years before. His blood starts flowing down his arms and down his torso from the wounds. (You need to use scarification next round as well, and on the 3rd round the spell will go off if the roll is successful).
Krag prays to Ishtar to interrupt the casting by removing the sound from around the area.
(4+3) + Mind2 + Druid2 -2Difficulty (powerful ruins) = 9 successful (just barely).
The area inside the ruins, where Kazak and the Xanos-look-alike are standing becomes as silent as the grave. This seems to really anger them...
Dorin charges into the fray, and smashes one of the chanting blue robed figures squarely in the back. There is a CRUNCHING noise, as their face and head hit the spire in front of them at an awkward angle. It is a nasty hit, and the body of the figure slumps down to the ground, releasing the hands of the other robed figures. The figures blood sprays all over the spire, and it seems to barely have moved, but move it did...
(4+2) + Strength4 + Brawl1 +2(from behind and the target didn't hear it coming) = 13! OUCH!!!
5 + 4Strength +6 to damage(Barbarian) = Dead
Brude charges forward on the balls of his feet, and throws his whole body behind the swing. The sound of severed flesh, bone, and cartilidge makes the horrible sounds of battle, that is music in the ears of the large man dealing out pain.
(6+3) + Strength4 + Melee2 + 2(from behind and the target didn't hear it coming) = 17!
6 +4Strength = 10 = Dead
The Merchant Kazak, and Xanos' Twin look in the direction of Dorin, and Brude. They lift up their arms and point in their direction, and... instead of shouts coming out of their mouths, only silence fills the air.
Your side wins initiative with the chaos of the silence, and the suddenness of the attack.
1st Round
Xanos takes the rest of the round to cut out the rest of the arcane symbols needed to cast the spell. next round he will cast the spell and see if it becomes reality (dice roll).
Everyone else tell me what they are doing this round.
-
The Hillmen look like they are going to flee instead of helping you, or them. They look really freaked out by all of the magic.
http://darveshill.bravehost.com/bolpbp.html
-
Brude
Brude lunges forward and shouts "Dorrin, let's crush these demon worshiping scum!"
He throws his shoulder into the black pillar (g8) and digs his feet into the earth. His muscles strain as he pushes the pillar towards the two figures in the circle.
-
Krag
Says "Thank you to the most holy Ishtar", with a request to bless and guide my arrows.
Pulls short bow and fires at the blue rove in I7
-
Brude lunges forward and shouts "Dorrin, let's crush these demon worshiping scum!"
He throws his shoulder into the black pillar (g8) and digs his feet into the earth. His muscles strain as he pushes the pillar towards the two figures in the circle.
(2+5) + Fighter 3 + Strength 4 = 14!
Dorin helps as well...
Dorin shouts back at Brude and slams his shoulder into the spire.
(5 + 4) + Barbarian 3 + Strength 4 = 16!
With the combined strength of both of the ripped warriors, the spire moves and starts to fall. It looks like it was being resisted at the last minute, but Brude and Dorin guide it to where they want it to fall.
(Tim's dice clatter)
Kazak the Merchant is horribly crushed beneath the spire. His remains splatter on the ground and out to the left and right for several yards.
The Xanos look a like manages to moves just enough so the spire gives him a painful glancing blow, but he isn't beneath the spire, and is still alive.
Krag fires at one of the cultists and hits one.
(4+3) + Hunter 2, Hunter Ability +2, + agility 2 = 13
The arrow sticks in the stomach of the cultist for 5 damage.
Cultists turn
They all move towards Brude, Dorin, and Krag.
Cultists 9 & 10, reach out their hands to touch Dorin. One of them hits and deals 8 damage. Dorin feels "drained" of something vitally important and necessary for life.
Cultists 1, 2, & 3 reach out their hands for Brude, and only one of them manages to touch him, as he manages to duck and weave away from most of them. The one that does touch him, drains him for 3 damage.
Cultists 4 & 5 reach out their hands for Krag. Both of them manage to hit and drain Krag for 12 damage! Krag remembers that he has healing herbs, and still has the ability to pray for healing. He feels horrible, as if he's had part of his life dragged out of his body.
Cultist 8 spies Xanos and attempts to touch him but misses. Xanos can see that there is an arcane mark on his hand, and he knows that if he gets touched, he may loose the spell...
Xanos-Clone
The enigmatic figure, runs to one of the hillsides in a very quick and disturbing manner, and grabs an unsuspecting younger looking Hillman on the way. He takes him to the top of the mound, and plunges a dagger into his chest while chanting words that no human throat has ever uttered to the void. His horrible screams mix with the chanting, and it seems that the chanting somehow mimicks and mocks the pain in the young man's voice before it is forever silenced by death.
All of the fires simultaneously lower and vanish, and out of the dying flames strange voices can be heard... Only the moon is now illuminating the area.
Damage
Brude 3 out of 16 damage.
Cultist #4 has 5 damage.
Dorin 7 out of 16 damage. (Reduce damage by 1 for Fighter)
Xanos-Clone 5 damage (from spire).
-
It is now Round 2. Everyone tell me what they are going to do. Xanos will be able to attempt to cast his spell this round.
http://darveshill.bravehost.com/bolpbp.html
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Brude
With a mighty war cry, Brude runs down the fallen spire and takes a mighty leap off of it as he follows the strange figure up the mound. He swings his sword at the strange figure, trying to end his foul magics.
-
Krag
will take 2 healing herbs from Ishtar's temple. And if can simultaneously retreat.
Does Krag notice if the eye is still near Kazak's body or if the Xanos look-a-like has it?
-
Dorin
Dorin snarls and shakes his head to clear it, the huge warrior confused and hurt, but still full of rage. His eyes focus on the cultists who worked their magics on him, and his hammer comes around in a sweeping arc with the power to pulp bones.
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Rannveig
Rannveig steps forward with a wordless cry, her sword flicking out in an expert lunge at the cultist who would dare to attack her mysterious savior.
-
Brude runs down the spire, leaving the cultists in his wake, and swings his weapon at the foul Xanos-Clone.
(2 + 2) + 4Strength + 2Melee = 10 (Minus Defense) = Miss...
The figure moves abruptly, and quickly, and Brude's heroic strike fails to strike soft flesh.
If you want to spend 3 Hero Points you will hit him. I don't know if you have used any of them yet.
Dorin snarls and swings his large mace at the cultist closest to him.
(3 + 5) + 4Strength + 2Melee = 14 (Minus Defense) = Hit
Dorin deals 6 + 4 = 10 + 6 to damage(Barbarian) = 16 Damage to Cultist #10.
The crunching sound of the cultist's head, is sickening but impressive. The power of the attack, knocks the body of the cultist into Cultist number 9, knocking him to the ground roughly, with a bloody corpse on top of him.
Rannveig steps in front of the concentrating and bleeding Xanos, and attempts to block the cultists way to him. She pulls out her sword, and slashes violently in the air in such a way as to make her brother proud. She has the ferocity of a cold Northern storm.
(2 + 3) + 1Strength + 2Melee = 8 (minus Def) = miss.
Ranveig will spend 3 Hero Points to make sure she hits him.
She deals 8 damage to the fist Cultist, and her sword splits his head like a rotten mellon.
Krag notices that the Eye that Xanos is searching for... is actually near the squished body of Kazak the merchant. It must have been knocked out of of the Xanos-Clone when the rocky spire hit him. He shoves two of the herbs in his mouth, and heals back 7 damage. He still has 4 damage. He retreats from the hands of the cultists (but you didn't tell me where he want to retreat to). He moves from G13, to B9.
Xanos finishes up his scaring ritual, and takes 3 damage from all of the wounds on his body. In addition to this, Xanos' skin takes on a more reddish tone and looks more sickly than normal. His Appeal is reduced to zero from one. (You needed a 2nd requirement to be able to cast it. It needed 14, and is now down to 10 spell points).
Spellcasting roll
(1 + 3) + 4Mind + 2Magician + 1Alchemist -4(Hard 3rd Mag Spell) = 7 Fail.
Something was either muttered incorrectly, or there are too many distractions with the cultists nearby. Xanos can try to cast it again next round.
The updated map (without the bad guys' turn) can be found here:
http://darveshill.bravehost.com/bolpbp.html
Damage
Brude 3 out of 16 damage.
Cultist #4 has 5 damage.
Cultist #9 is prone (but is perfectly fine)
Dorin 7 out of 16 damage. (Reduce damage by 1 for Fighter)
Krag 4 out of 13 damage.
Xanos-Clone 5 damage (from spire).
Xanos 3 damage (from ritual wounds)
-
Brude (revised turn)
Brude reaches down deep within himself (Hero Points) and manages to get through the Xanos Clone's defenses. His sword crashes into his shoulder.
5 +4Strength = 9!
The swipe of the blade leaves a horrible wound, which adds to the already battered wizard.
He crumples on the ground and begins dying a slow agonizing death. His screams are weak and short of breath.
-
Cultists
The cultists move, ending up with two cultists attacking Brude, and Dorin, and Rannveig.
The two cultists on Brude miss him, as he deftly ducks out of the way of their reaching arcane hands.
One of the cultists on Dorin is prone but he stands up. The other one puts his hands squarely on the center of his chest. Some of his life energy is violently ripped from his soul, and he takes 6 more damage (reduced by one).
Both cultists on Rannveig reach out with their sinister hands and manage to get past her whirling blade. They deal 9 damage as her life essence is drawn from her by the greedy mages.
The Hillmen start mounting their horses to flee into the distance.
http://darveshill.bravehost.com/bolpbp.html
Damage
Brude 3 out of 16 damage.
Cultist #4 has 5 damage.
Dorin 13 out of 16 damage. (Reduce damage by 1 for Fighter)
Krag 4 out of 13 damage.
Rannveig 9 out of 13 damage.
Xanos-Clone Dying from wounds
Xanos 3 damage (from ritual wounds)
Brude is next.
-
With an angry fist pointed at the sky, the Xanos-Clone dies...
"gurgle gurgle..."
-
Brude
Brude flicks the blood from his sword at the two cultists and yells "Who wants to be next? I will crush you beneath my boots and your blood will soak the earth!" He then swings his sword at cultist #2 trying to kill him as messily as possible.
-
Krag
Will take one more healing leaf (17 left) and charges to the bad guy in f12, ending in either e12 or f12.
Swinging his mace
-
Frusteeated, Xanos simply continues his ritual practically ignoring the carnage around him.
-
Brude viciously swipes at one of the cultists.
(dice clatter - Natural 12!!)
Brude's anger fuels his blade, and he manages to cut directly through the midsection of Cultist #2, and then his blade ends in Cultist #3 with a bloody wet sound. Cultist #3 takes 10 damage, and is barely standing up.
Dorin (I'm acting as Dorin because I don't want to wait any longer).
Dorin swings as Cultist #9.
(dice clatter)
His weapon smashes the head of one of the cultists down into his rib cage, and the cracking bones either sound like the sound of victory, or disgusting, depending on your point of view.
Rannveig's resolve holds and she swings, but misses her opponent.
Krag munches on some healing herbs and heals the rest of his damage. He charges and swings at one of the ugly cultists.
(dice clatter)
His swing goes wild, as he seemingly trips on the debris of an old corpse, and he misses.
Xanos strains his will and tries once again to unleash the arcane powers inside him.
(dice clatter).
The light seems to dim, slowly at first, but then more dramatically. Xanos falls to his knees under the weight of the spell. The corpses of the cultists start being dragged by some invisible force. Their body parts snapping and conjoining into four evil looking large forms of hideous mien. To look at them is to quail in fear, unless you are either stupid or resolved against such palpable evil.
While this is taking place, Xanos crumbles farther to the ground, still muttering arcane words whispered to the void.
The forms lurch towards the remaining cultists much faster than would be expected for things made up from the remains of the dead. One of them has insects and cockroaches falling out of the mouths of the corpse parts, while another has flies belching forth. One seems to be bleeding, while another leaves a trail of black vapor behind it, staining the ground black.
The demons clad in the flesh of the dead, make a quick work of the remaining cultists, seeming to suck their souls from their nostrils and mouths, while their clawed hands grasped firmly on the sides of their heads. Their screams sound like someone falling down an immeasurable distance, as if falling into a well without a bottom. It is very unsettling...
No one is left alive, except the Hillmen, and they flee on their horses in all directions. Anywhere is better than this accursed place in their mind.
Damage
Brude 3 out of 16 damage.
Dorin 13 out of 16 damage. (Reduce damage by 1 for Fighter)
Rannveig 9 out of 13 damage.
Xanos 3 damage (from ritual wounds)
The corpse flesh demons turn what must be their faces towards Xanos, and slowly start to walk in his direction.
-
Brude
Watching the demons, Brude circles them and the carnage to make his way next to Xanos.
"Ah, Xanos? Can you send those demons back into the abyss now?"
-
Krag
Standing beside Rannveig offers her two healing herbs. To help her regain strength. He chooses to avert his eyes from the demons. Ranneveig is much prettier.
-
Xanos picks himself up, his tattoos and eyes still glowing with power. Metal around him rusts slightly and fires flare. Shadows deepen and blood runs quicker and redder from wounds. He sighs as he looks around. A strange whispering fills the air, like peices of a hundred conversations in an ancient, strange tongue. Xanos nods to one of the four hidious creatures. "Yes, but the current task is finished. Release the flesh. When needed again I will allow you to construct another. The magic has been woven. It will hold. The contract is still upheld."
The four demonic forms disintegrate into steaming piles of blood and meat, four tiny wisps of energy, black, red, yellow and silver, flow back into the bloody spiral on Xanos' chest. His jaw tightens for a moment and his skin ripples as if things beneath tried for a moment to escape before settling.
He walks to where the Eye had fallen, searching the ground for it. Finding it, he takes a shuddering breath and picks it up slowly. "Krag, this is what I have sought. With it your chalice is no more hidden than the sun on a clear day, and my the end of my own burdens are finally more than a distant hope. I thank you all. Let us be gone from this place."
-
Xanos learns from The Eye that Krag's Chalice of Ishtar resides in Kazak's Merchant Tent, with lots of wealth to share and spend in whatever town you head to next. It seems that everyone will probably not have to "work" for a very long time, or at least until you spend it unwisely on wine and women.
Somehow you all managed to survive the trials and tribulations along the way, and the mission is a glorious success.
-
Krag
Krag offers to heal anyone that needs some help to regain strength. Then when Xanos points out the location of the chalice Krag runs over to Kazak's tent and retrieves Ishtar's chalice. He then plans to build a altar to Ishtar to cleanse and re-consecrate the chalice after being in Kazak's possession there is no knowing what he might have used it for.
Krag thinks one night to celebrate, our success, a day to recover, and then Krag needs to travel back to Tremoss so she can use Ishtar's chalice in this important ceremony.
-
Xanos pays his companions handsomely, as promised. He says goodby to Krag and Hakiem, thanking them for their efforts. The others, he tells he will be traveling north, where the eye points him on the next leg of his journey. Any who wish to follow may, and will live in luxury as long as do, but danger is assured. He seeks the Lost Key of Mu now. Another relic of the ancient past, told only in myths and legends. Finding it will be no easy task, but not even the gods are as tenacious and relentless as Xanos Doom.