Dark Days in Sion - Act 2: Scene 4

[narayan]

Ersun

He nods and puts his stone away. “I will be most careful with it.”

He can’t help but wonder how long he will be away, and what will exactly this new place will bring him. It is a nostalgic feeling, ironically, leaving so many things behind, even if he did not put them much weight beforehand. It is both exciting and somewhat scary to think about, as it is a rather large leap from the world he has known so far. He wishes it would be just a moderate field trip, but if he would deduce from the events of today... he does not really expect a merry story. In the end, he supposes at this point he can only hope for the best while expecting the worst.

“Anything else I should know before leaving?”

Izel: "No I think not. You do your tribe a great service Ersun. Don't forget that." He says and simply walks away with his two bodyguards.

______________________________________________________________

When you approach the the spot prearranged by Izel you do not see any sign of Ania. Finally you have no choice to but to go ahead without her. Once you arrive you do not have to wait long for the emissary to appear. Suddenly she is there with you in a cavern dimly lit by fluorescent lichen.

At first all you see is a figure in a cloak and gloves gripping a staff. Once she pulls back her hood however you see an attractive woman of delicate bone structure who is paler than you expected. It is obvious from the curve of her almond-shaped eyes and the high set of her cheek bones that she is not entirely human either (according to images from your own histories depicting your Sezzaran ancestors on the surface long ago). Her hair is brunette, thick and curly, which she keeps knotted behind her neck.

Beneath her cloak she wears an unremarkable long-sleeved blouse and leggings that are loose-fitting. Her belt, boots and gloves are all made from supple leather. She also carries a pair of masterwork daggers on her hips and around her neck she wears a beautiful pendant inset with a modest but brilliantly sparkling emerald. As soon as she appears she starts glancing about looking for you.

Thiara: (Spot check: = 27)

[Ersun: What do you do? Make a Knowledge Check to recognize her as a half high-elf, DC 13]

 

[narayan]

Alic, Bax, Kryslogious, Malic, Ordechai, Wrenwil

It took a few moments to return to reality, or at least the least worse of the two. Wrenwil took a seat in front of the fire, letting its heat warm his back as he stared off into the night.

"The matter?" He turned to his half-dwarven chum with an anxious gaze and furrowed brow.

"I need a holiday Ordechai. This journey isn't exactly what I had in mind. I believe we are safe here, perhaps for a short time, but we must make haste come dawn. Tell me, I've been thinking, I'd like to reach Tabba, preferably in one piece, and avoid whatever kafuffle is going on upstream. I wish you to be by my side, yet the dwarves have other plans. It seems we need to ensure your innocence or perhaps... expose the futility in delivering you for trial... My little trick earlier, to make the Barossan speak the truth... will such a thing be of benefit to you when the time comes for this "questioning"? We are like light and shade my friend, so different in every way, and for this reason I feel best to work as one, if of course, Tabba is of interest to you?

Ordechai: Drinks another swig of rum. "I have been through Tabba many times my friend. It is just a simple town like so many others. Yet I would gladly accompany you there if I were free to do so. As you say though, I must first convince the dwarves to see me free. If it helps that cause, I do not mind your magic tricks."

[Wrenwil: What do you do?]

"Right now should we press on I can not guarantee I will not quickly become a burden. I have marched all day in this sun and have been injured twice without proper triage, and I am built to do such a trek. I fear Ordechai and my Lord will not fare as well should we press on and encounter more hostilities."

Alic: Nods. "Kryslogious speaks sense. We would be even worse off encountering additional Vul out there half-dead from exhaustion if we keep moving."

Malic: Grunts. "So be it. We shall rest here and hope to see the sunrise. Yet we still need to perform Ordechais interrogation before we decide what to do, and where to go, come the morning. Kryslogious, would you care to carry your new weapon..." Gestures to the heavy crossbow "...and keep watch while we do so?" He says with a bit of a snicker, indicating he finds the idea funny with that particular weapon.

[Kryslogious: What do you do?]

 

[thisthingcantbedeleted]

Ersun

He nods towards her, waves in a friendly gesture and walks up to her. He has an inkling he should know what her racial variation should be but can’t really place it properly. He appraises her looks, physical characteristics, posture, and is satisfied with what he sees, although he will have to see what other surfaces look like to have a better judgement of her.

“You must be lady Thiara. My name is Ersun Durim, I will be in your care for a while. It is a pleasure to meet you.” He greets her graciously. He starts to wonder about cultural differences they might have on the surface regarding such customs, but he will learn eventually anyway.

[Knowledge, Geography: 11 fumble, DC 13]

 

[97mg]

Wrenwil

Ordechai: Drinks another swig of rum. "I have been through Tabba many times my friend. It is just a simple town like so many others. Yet I would gladly accompany you there if I were free to do so. As you say though, I must first convince the dwarves to see me free. If it helps that cause, I do not mind your magic tricks."

"We will do our best," Wrenwil replied, standing up to stare into the distance, a 360 degree arc of night, speaking as he surveyed the fringes of their camp. "They better get on with it though, my patience is thinning, in fact it has been since first light." Wrenwil winked to his friend, a hopeful gesture that all would be fine.

"Actually... you don't happen to have a shovel do you? I hate to ask, but my faith demands that I bury the dead, excluding those who seek to murder us of course. Couldn't think of a better way to spend a night on vacation, help a friend who is ripe for interrogation, and bury an oversized bird, whilst obviously keeping one eye open for death from above..."

[sblock=Wrenwil Stats]

WRENWIL - a tough old boot on a terrible holiday Sheet: http://www.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=209300 Level 4, Init 2, HP 20/27, Speed 30 AC 15, Touch 13, Flat-footed 13, Fort 6, Ref 3, Will 10, Base Attack Bonus 3 Masterwork Staff +7 to hit (d6+3) Spells: 5/5/3

[/sblock]

 

[narayan]

Avar, Billanverthorne, Jabbar

To Jabbar: -Whispering- "Stay behind me until we're sure it's not an ambush. If they want you, they'll have to pass Avar and I first. If there's trouble, I will engage with my sword, since we're in tight quarters."

Bill puts the arrow back into the quiver, and slings his bow back over his shoulder. "Okay, we're coming. Our hands are empty and raised." He says, loud enough to be heard by the bandit, but not loud enough to carry outside.

Bill will stand, and calmly walk toward the end of the tunnel, showing Avar and Jabbar the location of the trap trigger as he approaches it, by pointing to it, and saying "Don't step here."

Basically, Bill is going to show good faith, and proceed as the bandits ask, i.e., approach with weapons sheathed / put away, with his hands empty, and raised to chest level ("truce hands.") If they try to disarm him, he will warn them that he is a man of patience, but not unending. He will say that on his word of honor, he shall not attack, and will agree to parlay, but that his weapons are special (sentimental value) to him, and he's not going to hand them over to anyone; not the bandits, not the Vul, not to Herod himself. He will NOT permit himself to be disarmed.

As you emerge from the tunnel, squeezing by the mechanical trap in the process which has not been reset yet, you find yourself in a small cave with four exits. Stacks of goods and supplies are piled in two places, some of which are obviously taken from other smugglers as they have no purpose for daily survival underground.

There are five bandits waiting in a semi-circle around the tunnel entrance, blocking the exits. All of them are well-armed and armored. Two of them hold light crossbows (aimed at the floor) and the others have melee weapons at the ready.

Two of them have lanterns they've placed on the ground by their feet to free up both their hands. Four of them are Akhenatens and the last is a Hill Dwarf. The Dwarf appears to be the leader, standing in the center of their formation. Avar and Jabbar step out from behind you at your flanks.

Avar: Holds up his torch and scoffs as he recognizes the dwarf. -Speaking Dwarven- "Odan RamHorn is that you?!"

The dwarf stiffens, looking a bit chagrined.

Odan: -Dwarven- "...Avar DarkChains... I should have known I'd catch you in here eventually."

Avar: -Dwarven- "What is this nonsense?!"

Odan: Shakes his head. -Dwarven- "It's not personal, it wasn't even my idea to be honest."

Avar: -Dwarven- "Of course not, I can only think of one moron capable of this..." He mutters and spits.

Odan: -Dwarven- "It was orders. He knew I was the best one for the job."

Avar: -Dwarven- "Well you are a twice-damned fool! Lurking in alleyways and backrooms is one thing, this is certain to get you all killed."

Meanwhile the other bandits look to their leader with raised brows. They clearly do not speak dwarven but they can sense this is already not going to plan.

Odan: Sighs. -Dwarven- "As I said... this is not personal."

Jabbar: Lowers his cowl and speaks up. - Speaking Common- "Do you know who I am?" He asks looking at each of the bandits in turn. A couple of them nod. (Number 1 & Number 5)

Bandit 1: -Common- "You are Jabbar Najafi!"

Jabbar: -Common- "Indeed I am. I was using these caves before some of you were old enough to steal your first loaf of bread! What is the explanation for these traps? You almost injured one of my bodyguards. All I have to do is say the word and he'll slice you up." (Intimidation Check: = 27)

[Billanverthorne: What do you do?]

[sblock=Odan RamHorn]
Male Hill Dwarf, 4'4", 183lbs, Age 60, Black Hair & Beard, Brown Eyes
MW Heavy Pick, MW Shortsword, MW Dagger
MW Chainshirt w/Coif + Bracers & Greaves
MW Heavy Steel Shield
Boots, Cloak and Gloves
[/sblock][sblock=Bandit 1]
Male Akhenaten, 5'5", 155 lbs, Age 20, Brown Hair & Eyes
Scimitar, Dagger
Studded Leather Armor
Light Wooden Shield
Boots + Cloak
[/sblock] [sblock=Bandit 2]
Male Akhenaten, 5'6", 160 lbs, Age 25, Brown Hair & Eyes
Light Crossbow, Short Sword
Chain Shirt
Boots + Cloak + Gloves
[/sblock]
[sblock=Bandit 3]
Male Akhenaten, 5'5", 165 lbs, Age 26, Brown Hair & Eyes
Battle Axe, Shortsword, Dagger
Scale Mail, + Open Face Metal Helm
Heavy Steel Shield
Boots + Cloak + Gloves
[/sblock] [sblock=Bandit 4]
Male Akhenaten, 5'7", 178 lbs, Age 31, Black Hair & Brown Eyes
Light Crossbow, Scimitar, Dagger
Chain Shirt + Open Face Metal Helm
Boots + Cloak
[/sblock]
[sblock=Bandit 5]
Male Akhenaten, 5'5", 158 lbs, Age 24, Brown Hair & Eyes
Spear, Scimitar
Studded Leather Armor + Open Faced Reinforced Leather Helm
Boots + Cloak
[/sblock]

 

[Tellerian Hawke]

Billanverthorne: Looking Mean

Jabbar: -Common- "Indeed I am. I was using these caves before some of you were old enough to steal your first loaf of bread! What is the explanation for these traps? You almost injured one of my bodyguards. All I have to do is say the word and he'll slice you up." (Intimidation Check: = 27)

[Billanverthorne: What do you do?]

Bill quietly surveys the group, a stern scowl on his face. For a few moments, he says nothing. He pauses, to look the Dwarf over.

In Dwarven: "Greetings friend. What's a well-heeled Dwarf such as yourself doing in the company of amateurs such as these? They won't last a minute in a real fight. This one," indicating Bandit #2 with a nod of his head, "looks as if he borrowed his father's chainmail to play dress-up. They are not worthy companions to one such as you."

In Common, smiling coldly: "I await your instructions, sir. What is your wish?"

In Dwarven, still smiling coldly: "If I may make a suggestion, you could simply charge us the discounted 'friend' price, and let us pass. That would satisfy your employer's honor, and keep your cohorts here alive another day. You're obviously in charge here, so the decision is yours. I trust Avar's judgment, and he doesn't seem to be in a hurry to spill your blood. So why don't we just compromise, and part as friends?"

Bill scans the bandits one last time, finally settling his gaze on Bandit #3. Bill winks at him.~He'll be the first to die.~

 

[narayan]

Drasus, Svexyn

Svexyn:

Looking around, Svexyn's eyes take in the hallway and the table where he is asked to be seated. The words ring in his ears, as he has been warned repeatedly about this man. He has also seen him in action, and does not fancy upsetting him. Deciding on making this as short as possible, but not rude, he answers honestly.

"Tylia is already bringing you a drink, I made sure to have it on its way."

He sits at the table, bowing slightly to Drasus, showing some form of decency. He still has his drink, having decided to drink slowly, and keep his wits about him.

"I apologize, but I cannot stay for much long, as Tamas is holding my gear for me until I return to deliver what is needed to help bury the half-orc that so recently met the wrong end of your sword. Best to get that job done with quickly, before the body starts stinking up my camp, if you know what I mean. Well, at least MORE than what he already does..."

Svexyn hopes that Drasus is a man of some measure of decency, but doubts it. "But of course, I settle all my debts in full, when I can. So, here I am, at your disposal to talk about settling up. I just hope I don't say something that would make me end up needing to tell my men to make a bigger hole for me to join the half-orc."

Drasus: Smiles "I wouldn't worry, your life doesn't look like it'd be worth my fee." He says in poor humor. "Good of you to speak to Tylia on my behalf however. That is the second favor you have done for me today. Such thoughtfulness is unusual out here..."
____________________________________________

Meanwhile, the hill dwarf trader and the quresh merchant seated at the other table seem to dismiss you as a nobody and resume their discussion.

Svexyn: (Fate Pool Listen Check: = Natural 20) And you happen to have no trouble eavesdropping on that discussion.

Hill Dwarf: -Speaking Common in a gravely voice- "...As I was saying Raja, surely by now a pass into the Sezzara Wasteland isn't out of the question? All these years of good business between us should be worth that small favor at least."

Raja: Frowns and raises his hands in a gesture of helplessness "It is not my decision to make Drumir!"

Drumir: Sits back with frustration. "I was told the favor of a Quresh merchant was exactly what was required?!"
_______________________________________

[Svexyn: What do you do?]

 

[Fangor the Fierce]

Svexyn, Mogan and Folg

Svexyn:

~So he has a fee for murder...nice to know...~

Svexyn is about to sit when he overhears Raja and Drumir... ~Another Quresh, and apparently they hold the key to approved access to the place called the Sezzara Wasteland. I will have to ask Tamas about this place, and why people are keen on going there. Along with why the Quresh hold access to this land in high regard...~

Taking a seat that allows him the closest proximity to the two others, Svexyn answers Drasus rather dryly, noting that apparently being too nice would likely get you killed just as quickly as being rash.

"I will have to endeavor to alter my actions then, as being favorable doesn't seem to be something these lands 'favors' it would seem." Svexyn raises his mug in a slight toast to Drasus, as he then takes a sip of his drink. It still took some getting used to, as he continues savoring the taste of a drink that wasn't filled with the grit of sand.

"But I do intend to pay my debts, however small or large they are. Which is why I requested Tylia bring up your favored drink, so that our business could continue." Again, he glances back to see if Tylia is coming soon with the drink he ordered for Drasus.

"Besides, knowing a man's drink says a little about them. For one, it would seem that you enjoy the pleasures of the high life. As well as the ability to provide for it, as that drink isn't easily something I could afford most days."

Svexyn attempts to continue to overhear anything that would help him on his search, constantly pausing his speech to be able to listen to the two nearby.

"Which brings me to our conversation. I offered 5 gold for the scavenging rights, but you offered to settle up later. I hope that we can come to some agreement on the payment."

Svexyn lets the last statement hang, hoping that Drasus has had enough time to come to a decision. The longer he stayed, the more dangerous he felt it would be for him. There was just something that didn't sit well with this man.

 

[narayan]

Ersun, Thiara

He nods towards her, waves in a friendly gesture and walks up to her. He has an inkling he should know what her racial variation should be but can’t really place it properly. He appraises her looks, physical characteristics, posture, and is satisfied with what he sees, although he will have to see what other surfaces look like to have a better judgement of her.

“You must be lady Thiara. My name is Ersun Durim, I will be in your care for a while. It is a pleasure to meet you.” He greets her graciously. He starts to wonder about cultural differences they might have on the surface regarding such customs, but he will learn eventually anyway.

[Knowledge, Geography: 11 fumble, DC 13]

Thiara: Looks to you with a discerning stare before she says. "You speak the common tongue rather well for an under-dweller, that is good..." She steps to the side and starts slowly circling you to get a better look at you. "I almost did not come, things are very bad right now in Masaeus. I can't guarantee your safety, but I do not want to forsake the lives of my scouts either."

"My arrangement with Izel was that you would come back with me for one week. After that week if he was satisfied with your reports, and you were still alive, he would release my scouts and consider an alliance. However given the situation in Masaeus I think it best that we alter that arrangement a little. Let me take you to a town known as Cabarda. It is only a couple days east of Masaeus by horseback."

"I have a contact there that can look out for you and show you around. If things calm down in Masaeus I will send for you so you can still see the city. If not, well, I hope you can gather enough information in the meantime to please Izel. Is that agreeable to you Ersun?"

[Ersun: What do you do?]

 

[narayan]

Avar, Billanverthorne, Jabbar

Odan: Shifts his gaze to you Billanverthorne -Speaking Common- "Who is this elf who speaks like a fool? What do you think you know of my employers honor?" He asks voicing that final word with complete distaste. "IF YOU KNEW HIM AT ALL YOU WOULD KNOW BETTER!" He roars and charges towards you with his Heavy Pick!

<Start of Combat>
__________________________________________

<Start of Round 1>

Bleeding Damage ( * )
Fire Damage ( # )
Cold Damage ( @ )
Spell Damage ( ^ )
Poison Damage ( ! )

The order of initiative is:

(20) Odan (-7,-6)
(19) Avar
(18) Billanverthorne (-7)
(14) Jabbar
(13) Bandits

_____________________________________________

Odan: (Charge Attack vs. Billanverthorne: =19, Hit)(Location: Gut)(Damage: = 7)

Odans Heavy Pick swings wide and pierces your side!

Avar: Shouts "Damn you Odan!" Takes 5 ft. Step, Dropping his torch and drawing both his weapons as a free action action. Engages in Full Attack vs. Odan.

• (Handaxe Attack: =22, Hit)(Location: Right Leg)(Damage: =7)
• (Hunting Knife Attack: =23, Hit)(Location: Gut)(Damage: =6)

[Billanverthorne: It is your turn, what do you do?]

 

[narayan]

Drasus, Svexyn

Other Conversation_______________________________

Raja: Lays his hands on the table in a gesture of frankness. "Normally that would be true, but the Shiekh recently ordered the borders closed. Only the Chiefs have the authority to permit foreigners in now. Certainly you can understand I have no business asking the chiefs to vouch for you."

Drumir: Purses his lips and tugs at his beard with frustration. "This is totally unacceptable. I will not be kicked off the doorstep like some mangy cur!" He says balling his fist on the table for emphasis.

Raja: Sighs and leans back. "I could bring your goods in for you Drumir? There would be no shame in it under the circumstances."

Drumir: Huffs. "That's not the point!" He says hitting his fist atop the table for emphasis. "You damned Quresh are too paranoid."
_________________________________________________

Just then Tylia appears on the stairwell with a cup of Barossan rum and a plate of sweet dates.

Tylia: "Svexyn wanted to be sure you got your favorite drink Drasus." She says taking a sip before she places the cup before him. "The dates are on the house." She adds also placing them on the table and turns to go.

Drasus: Grabs a date at random off the plate and lifts his finger. "Wait!"

Tylia: Pauses, and turns again apologetically. "Of course, I almost forgot..." She says taking the date from his fingers and swallowing it.

Drasus: Smiles and pulls two gold pieces from his purse. "Very good Tylia." He says slipping the coins into her apron, letting his fingertips linger a moment longer than necessary at her waist.

Tylia looks angered by the forwardness of Drasus, but holds her tongue.

[Svexyn: What do you do?]

 

[Fangor the Fierce]

Svexyn

Svexyn:

~The borders are closed? What would cause them to be closed and why does this dwarf believe the Quresh are being paranoid? Has something happened recently?~

His answers are left in his mind, as Tylia arrives to deliver Drasus' drink and snack. As she takes a sip and eats one of the dates, Svexyn can only wonder if paranoia was something in the water here, as everyone seems to have it.

"Are you a hunted man, or simply take no chances?" Svexyn asks, as he motions to the dates.

"Having her test out your drink and food seems a bit much, but something tells me it's not from paranoia. Forgive my question, as it's none of my business." He leans back into his chair, overhearing the the argument nearby.

"Why would the Quresh close the borders? What does the Sezzara Wasteland hold?" he asks to Drasus. The question is said just loud enough that the Quresh merchant and the dwarf both can hear.

 

[narayan]

Alic, Bax, Kryslogious, Malic, Ordechai, Wrenwil

"We will do our best," Wrenwil replied, standing up to stare into the distance, a 360 degree arc of night, speaking as he surveyed the fringes of their camp. "They better get on with it though, my patience is thinning, in fact it has been since first light." Wrenwil winked to his friend, a hopeful gesture that all would be fine.

"Actually... you don't happen to have a shovel do you? I hate to ask, but my faith demands that I bury the dead, excluding those who seek to murder us of course. Couldn't think of a better way to spend a night on vacation, help a friend who is ripe for interrogation, and bury an oversized bird, whilst obviously keeping one eye open for death from above..."

Ordechai: Murmers. "Bax, dig out the shovel for Wrenwil."

The goblin moves to oblige as the dwarves rise from their camp and make their way over into Ordechai's.

Malic: "It is time Ordechai."

[Wrenwill: Casts Zone of Truth]

Ordechai: Raises his head and belches. "Go on with your questions then."

Malic: "Tell us what you know of the Black Network?"

Ordechai: "I know plenty!" He quips feeling at the horrid scars of his burns.

Alic: "Were they responsible for your burns?"

Ordechai: Gestures to Wrenwil. "Ask him, he knows most of the story and I'm in no mood to repeat myself."

Alic: Glares. "Now is not the time for games!"

Ordechai: "Oh it was a game to them I assure you... a game of screams." He says with a hollow voice.

Malic: "What did you do to warrant such torture?"

Ordechai: "I was just a young lad in the wrong place at the wrong time. They tortured me, and the woman who raised me, for information about some bandits in the Urzuq Hills."

Alic: "What did they look like?"

Ordechai: "They were dwarves of the Stonebones Clan, same as you."

Malic: Stares intently at Ordechai, brows furrowed. "I don't want to believe you, yet after all I've seen I can't deny its possible."

Alic: "Did you catch their names? Why did they let you live?"

Ordechai: "No I did not catch their names, but I will never forget their faces. Letting me go was their plan all along. It is their way. It doesn't matter what I said or how I cooperated. They intended to scar me with horrid mutilations anyway."

Malic: Nods slowly. "They say the Black Network likes to mark its captives like that, often letting them free as an example to others. This is exactly the sort of testimony we need to prove evil has infiltrated our clan!"

Alic: "Why do they let them free?"

Malic: "Because they knew no one would ever trust Ordechai afterwards. His scars forever associate him with the Black Network. The sight of him spreads fear and distrust between neighbors."

Ordechai: Takes another deep swallow of his rum. "That's true. I was always shunned from decent company afterwards. Nobody would shelter me. Out of desperation I took up with the worst sorts of scum in the streets of Casalan. I did many things I wasn't proud of simply to survive. That's when I first encountered the corrupt captain Ramses of the Casalan Guard."

"I didn't know who he was at first. I assumed he was just another man on the thieves guild payroll taking bribes and demanding black market goods in exchange for favors and information. However, one day I recognized him on horseback leading a patrol through the streets. He saw me too unfortunately and tried to have me seized and arrested on the spot. Luckily I evaded him, but I was struck so profoundly by his cold stare I knew he was my enemy from that day forward. I just didn't realize how much of an enemy he truly was."

"Shortly after that our smugglers started going missing. Then some of our hideouts were attacked and plundered, with a few survivors turning up later horribly scarred like me. I was probably the first one to realize what was happening. Our informant was informing on us to the Black Network! I tried to warn the guild, but the captain was one step ahead of me. He'd already dropped a rumor to them saying that I was responsible."

"I barely escaped with my life and had to flee the kingdom, knowing I could never return because there was a price on my head. Since then I have roamed far and wide doing whatever I can to earn a living. Smuggling suites me best because I stay on the move. All the while of course I've had to fend off the knives of the captains hired killers coming after me, so I started keeping a slave to watch over me as I sleep. And now of course, I hear from that snake Garrisan that my arch-enemy has been promoted to commander!" He spits.

Malic: "I apologize for judging you so harshly. I see your history in a different light now. The truth is dwarves hold the lions share of blame for your wrongdoing and I am deeply shamed."

Ordechai: "They've infiltrated your clan yes, but the same is true of many other clans in the region. Of course, given that the source of their strength comes from Skull Mountain, it doesn't surprise me in the least that their disease of corruption and greed spread first among other dwarves."

Alic: "But the captain..."

Ordechai: Nods. "Clearly its not just dwarves anymore. Governments of Vulkh and Barossa are soaking in their sickness like a sponge, but they won't be the only ones. Agents of the Black Network are quite apt seeding corruption and dissent wherever they travel. In fact, I only know of one region the network stays clear of."

Alic: "What region is that?!" He asks eagerly.

Ordechai: "That would be the Sezzara Wasteland, breeding ground of the Quresh and legions of evil humanoids."

[Wrenwil: What do you do? Make a Knowledge Check, DC 13, to see what you know of the Quresh.]

[Kryslogious: What do you do? Make a Wisdom Check, DC 13]

 

[narayan]

Drasus, Svexyn

Svexyn:
He leans back into his chair, overhearing the the argument nearby.

"Why would the Quresh close the borders? What does the Sezzara Wasteland hold?" he asks to Drasus. The question is said just loud enough that the Quresh merchant and the dwarf both can hear.

Both the merchant and the dwarf pause in their speech and turn their heads in your direction.

Drumir: "HEY!" He says with a glare directly at you.

Drasus: Glances at the dwarf, slightly annoyed, then regards you with a brow raised one tick as if he's thinking ~What will you do now?~.

[sblock=Drasus]
Barossan Male, 30, Black Hair, Blue Eyes, 5'10", 170 lbs
Rapier, Short Sword
Loose Tunic and Leggings, Well-Heeled Boots
[/sblock]

[sblock=Drumir]
Hill Dwarf Male, 51, Black Hair, Black Beard, Brown Eyes, 4'2", 195 lbs
Short Sword, Dagger
Tunic, Leather Vest & Leggings, Boots
[/sblock]

[sblock=Raja]
Quresh Male, 35, Brown Hair, Golden Eyes, 5'6", 160 lbs
Dagger
Merchants Robes, Shoes
[/sblock]

 

[Fangor the Fierce]

Svexyn

Svexyn:

~Great... looks like things go from bad to worse. This place may just be the death of me if I don't learn quick enough...~

Raising his hand apologetically, Svexyn answers Drumir with, "Your conversation was too loud to not overhear. I wasn't aware that it was something private."

[sblock=Bluff Check]Bluff to have Durmir believe that Svexyn wasn't aware it was a private conversation, Fangor:1D20+11 → 15(4 + 11)#Bluff Check[/sblock]

He looks between the two, Drumir and Raja, trying to gather whether or not if this came to a battle, then would the Quresh aid the drawf, or let it play out...

[sblock=Svexyn's Quick Stats]Init 2+1=3, HP 35/35, Speed 30
AC 16, Touch 12, Flat-footed 14, Fort 5, Ref 3, Will 3, Base Attack Bonus 2
Cold Iron MW Cold Iron Spiked Chain +6 (2d4+4, x2), Reach, Adjacent, Trip, +2 Disarm
ColdIron / Silver / Steel Dagger +5 Melee / +4 Ranged (1d4+3, 19-20/x2)
Abilities Str 17, Dex 15, Con 14, Int 13, Wis 10, Cha 12
Active Draconic Aura Senses Aura (+1 to Listen, Spot and Initiative)[/sblock]

 

[narayan]

Drasus, Drumir, Raja, Svexyn

Svexyn:Raising his hand apologetically, Svexyn answers Drumir with, "Your conversation was too loud to not overhear. I wasn't aware that it was something private."

[sblock=Bluff Check]Bluff to have Durmir believe that Svexyn wasn't aware it was a private conversation, Fangor:1D20+11 → 15(4 + 11)#Bluff Check[/sblock]

Drumir: (Sense Motive Check: =3, Fumble) The dwarf narrows his eyes, but cannot detect any deception about you. He decides that perhaps he was speaking louder than he realized. "Keep your ears on your own business." He mutters.

He looks between the two, Drumir and Raja, trying to gather whether or not if this came to a battle, then would the Quresh aid the drawf, or let it play out...

Svexyn: (Fate Pool Sense Motive Check: =8)

Raja's gaze lingers on you a moment longer. There is something chilling about his golden eyes, but his true character is hard to discern. In any case it appears that even if he knows your bluffing he doesn't wish to speak against you at this time. Both he and the dwarf do lower their voices however.

Drasus: Chuckles. -Speaks in a low voice- "Careful what you choose to hear around here young friend, especially when Quresh are involved. For my own sake I will not answer those questions related to that other conversation, but I shall continue our discussion about settling-up over that Half Orc. What I consider fair in that matter depends on what you found on him? Do tell..." He asks taking a drink of the rum.

[Svexyn: What do you do? Make another Listen Check if you wish to continue listening in on the dwarf and the merchant, DC 17.]

 

[97mg]

Wrenwil

Wrenwil stood at Ordechai's side as the questioning progressed. He was pleased. It was going well. The word "interrogation" was certainly not one of his favorites, and so far things had remained rather civil and peaceful. Not bad. Not bad at all. At this rate they might even let Ordechai regain his autonomy.

It was late. It had been a horrible day, and although he listened intently, Wrenwil struggled to make much sense of some of it. ~ Quresh? ~ He'd heard that word before, or at least read it somewhere, but right now, his mind succumbing to fatigue, it meant nothing. Even Pentos didn't deliver an inkling of understanding.

"Malic, Alic, Ordechai, Kryslogious, it pleases me that we can find it in our conscience to listen, to try and truly understand one another, to forgive..." He looked to Ordechai first, and then the knight, "I believe two men may now be free, to walk with us as friends. Kryslogious, you have done all in your power to protect us, you have unconditionally leant us your hand and sword. Whatever chain that you believe ties yourself to me, you must consider it gone. I am no Lord, I am as far from Lordship as a man could ever be. Be free Krysolgious and do as you wish, and if you will walk with us, I will be eternally grateful."

Wrenwil then looked again to the dwarven duo. "I believe Ordechai is also free to walk without chains or judging gaze. He has already paid a price far more heavy than any trial or execution. He carries it with him, every day, every breath. Let us travel as friends. Let us watch each others backs. Let us reach our destination as friends, not strangers who fear."

[sblock=Knowledge Check] Rolled total of 7. Spent one fate point. Rolled total of 5. Gave up at that point [/sblock]
[sblock=Wrenwil Stats]

WRENWIL - a tough old boot on a terrible holiday Sheet: http://www.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=209300 Level 4, Init 2, HP 20/27, Speed 30 AC 15, Touch 13, Flat-footed 13, Fort 6, Ref 3, Will 10, Base Attack Bonus 3 Masterwork Staff +7 to hit (d6+3) Spells: 5/5/3

[/sblock]

 

[Fangor the Fierce]

Svexyn

Svexyn:

Now that he was curious, Svexyn tries to overhear the conversation, but can't seem to hear them[sblock=Listen Check]Result is 15, failed[/sblock]As his attention goes back to Drasus, he contemplates his options. Deciding to use the same discretion as Drasus, he lowers his voice. "Nothing of note, which is kind of disappointing. His gear and a few coins and a gem that I already gave to Tamas for gear. The only thing that I am unsure of is a parchment that stated he was in contract with a group called the Masoud Trading Company. Ever heard of them?"

 

[Hillsy7]

Burrai Steelborn

"Enter!"

Burrai stepped inside Kadar's office. In truth, Burrai hadn't been away from Cabarda for just shy than two years - it had been longer. While he'd been brooding over his books, looking to divine something of importance, he'd stayed away from the mercenaries and soldiers companies that had started so many of his adventures in the past. And so Kadar's casual familiarity with his father Omar was both comforting and confusing. From his memories, Kadar looked changed: more composed, focused. It wasn't so much he'd grown into the chair he now sat in, more that he understood how it worked. They weighed each other for a moment.

"Have a seat Burrai Steelborn"

Burrai nodded thanks and sat, lifting and settling himself into the too high, too narrow chair human's thought everyone fit into. Kadar's own seat was deliberately slightly higher - no doubt a tactical advantage in negotiations - and so their relative eye lines were almost comically misaligned. But most dwarves dealt with that looming feeling every day. Burrai did so now by casting a slow eye around the room, lingering on the battlefield relics and maps.

"Good to see that appreciation of history I drilled into your father trickled down. I don't recognise half of these from my last visit. Impressive!" He made a gesture to the racks, the armour, and outside onto the training grounds. "Business is good for you at the moment, and growing judging by the freshness of some of the recruits. It seems an excellent time to come to you with some of my own business....

"I'm going to leave town on personal business myself for an unknown period of time, so I'm sort of selling my home. I require a simple escort in the next few days - the sooner the better - for the new buyer. But more importantly I'd like to enter into a contract for regular checks on the property, just to make sure that should I return, my home is still in one piece. My gold is good, as I'm sure you know, and my request is that simple."

He left a pause - dealing with Omar had tended to be an organic, casual affair. The few dealings he remember with Kadar had been more....clinical. But that was some time ago. So he left the offer of a simple transaction hanging, ready to be taken should Kadar want to take the option.

....and then it crept up on him. The realisation he'd truly opened dealings to start out on the road again, searching for a blank text to carve Burrai's name into for all eternity - and it felt exhilarating...

 

[narayan]

Drasus, Svexyn

Drasus: Nods Plainly. "I have. Show me this contract." He says.

[Svexyn: What do you do?]