Raiders of Aundair : The Dead Men Walk Again (prologue)

[Drerek]

Aaranth takes note of the look Willems give the lord. He doesn't appear too impressed by the spy's response, however.
[sblock=OOC]Spot Check (1d20+2=16)[/sblock]

 

[Jemal]

Gillian smiled at them, joining in their laughter and merriment, very pleased to be back amongst her colleagues. She knew there would be some apprehension, and was ready for the questions when they came. "Heavens no, I've not become a servant of the dark dragons. I hunt them. There are good dragons around, though unfortunately they are rare indeed. That is why the most powerful of them bestow their gifts upon those of us mortals who are willing to help... even the scales, if you'll pardon the pun." She grinned. "But I'm still very much Gillian. I've just had a small change of.. heart."

Then the merchant comes in and she settles down, watching from a perch on a chair. Her eyes fill with worry as Forge breaks the chair. He may look like he's not a real person, but she thought even warforged had feelings. At least nobody had laughed at him. "It's allright, just gotta watch yer step. They don't make stuff like they used to... Here, this one's pretty sturdy."

 

[Voda Vosa]

Forge finally stood up, and lay a heavy hand over Gillian shoulder "You have my thanks, lady Gillian" the warforged says, as he puts his weight over the new chair. It squeak, but resists Forge body.

 

[Blackrat]

Jael smiles at his brother looking at him. "Haven't eaten since you last visited. It's been five months now, has it?"

He crosses his legs in his usual manner, and realizes that he must look a bit weird sitting that way in a chair. Leaning back he listens to the conversations around him. Remarking Willems's explanation he smiles and gives an approving nod. He too knew how much good intelligence meant in the line.

 

[DrZombie]

No buisiness talks while the guests are eating is an Aundairian, civilised custom, but you are all glad that the dinner finally winds to a close and desserts and coffee are being served to those that still have room for them.

"Friends, fellow patriots. For the majority of the populace the war is over. But we know better. As long as Thaliost is in foreign hands, there will be no peace for Aundair. The war still rages, but in the shadows, at arms length. I will not waste time gloryfying the horrors of the battlefield, for you are all familiar with them, and saying how sad it is that we cannot meet the foe in fair combat. This war is as fierce and merciless as any you have seen. Master Willems is one of our specialists in the trade, and he has asked me to contact you. I, and the Crown, have every trust in him." Lord ir'Wynarn looks at everyone of you, making sure his message gets across.

"Now, I wish you all a good evening, and I will leave you with my guest. Remember, whatever you decide, you will not repeat anything you learn here tonight."

And with that, Lord ir'Wynarn leaves the chamber.

"Ladies and gentlemen," The merchant says, still seated. "I have read about your exploits in the war, and I must say I'm rather impressed." he pauses, thinking.
"What I have for you is a buisiness proposition. I am a merchant, travelling around the countryside dealing in luxury goods. Those goods need protection. You are all veterans from the war, and could use some coin. As far as any authorities are concerned, that is all they need to know."

He thinks again.
"I think you can put two and two together. If you are willing to travel with me, please stay seated. If you do not, you are free to leave."

 

[DrZombie]

[sblock=Sense Motive check]Konnel attempts to discern the context of WIllems' unspoken exchange with Adal. Sense Motive +5.[/sblock]

[sblock=eryndur]
sense motive : 19.
Willem is making sure ir'Wynarn agrees with telling you that he was a spy for aundair during the last war[/sblock]

 

[Blackrat]

"What is the sound of a dead man walking?" Jael says, crossing his arms and remains seated.

 

[Voda Vosa]

Forge keeps seat, looking the presents in the eyes, with a squeak each time he turns this head to look the next person. He looks at Jael with an inexpressive look in his copper face.

 

[Eryndur]

Konnel leans back and smiles at the merchant. Sounded innocuous enough, but Konnel had a feeling he knew where Willems was heading, and he liked it.

 

[Autumn]

Quite a big decision he's being asked to make... but Ghaunder's choice is never really in doubt. After the last few empty months, the opportunity to reunite with his old comrades and rejoin the struggle for Aundair is one he can't pass up. What lies ahead may be uncertain, but it offers a sense of belonging and purpose. To leave now would be to throw away both of those, perhaps forever.

He remains seated, taking a spoonful of pudding and chewing it with an air of quiet contentment.