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WOTBS Edarnia Campaign Journal
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<blockquote data-quote="Calavingian" data-source="post: 5019707" data-attributes="member: 86503"><p>Session 4 part 2<span style="color: White"></span></p><p><span style="color: White"></span></p><p><span style="color: White"></span> <span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px">Shealis leads everyone from Gabals, with Mikal and Dara introducing themselves as the others join them outside. Naturally, Sonea is left where she is as stopping to collect her would reveal to Diogeanese’s involvement. They are led East through various lightly manned gates. The first day of the New Year is still very, very cold with the complete white out of snow. This makes it difficult to follow the path but eventually they reach the Zaman canton. The men on the gates are obviously members of the Zaman Sacred Band (professional soldiers of Zama’s standing army -widely regarded as the finest fighting men in Edarnia). </span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px">Tall well muscled men in enchanted runic bronze armour, carrying tall spears, large circular bronze shields and wearing crestless hoplite helmets greet them coldly. Despite the cold all they wear under their armour are leather cups, sandals and a thick purple war cloak. </span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span> </p><p> <span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px">Within the walls of the canton the streets are clean and organised. Everyone is well dressed. The place is calm and all the buildings are untouched. As they are lead through a maze of streets they see that the homes are villas and the shops are large and open, definitely affluent.</span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p> <span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px">Along a street they are lead to a shop, a door makers shop by the sign outside, and lead around the back and in through a no-longer quite- so-secret door. </span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span> </p><p> <span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px">On the way from the gates Dara has noticed a rat behaving strangely outside – it does not scurry close to the walls as a rat should and instead runs in the open.</span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p> <span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px">Inside they find the loud yapping and barking of three fire-wreathed dogs. Dara immediately smiles and thinks to herself ‘I want one of those!’ She recognises them as Guardian solons- the weakest form of solon.</span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p> <span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px">Three large stocky men dressed as members of the Sacred Band stand in the room along with the man from the depositary tower. None of them look surprised to see who Shealis has brought with her.</span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p> <span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px">Inside the house is one big empty unfurnished nothing, a space with a ladder going up to the loft. </span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span> </p><p> <span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px">Shealis excuses herself and, accompanied by the man from the depositary- her lieutenant- she climbs the ladder. </span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span> </p><p> <span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px">Torthen stoops down and pets one of the dogs without ill effect (thanks to his fire resistant armour). It’s hard to determine who is more surprised, the dogs or the guards.</span></em></span></p><p> <span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px">A few moments later Shealis and the lieutenant come back down the ladder with the blue glowing box. It looks just like the illusionary one. The guards are close by. </span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span> </p><p> <span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px">Shealis has two glass vials and a long silver needle. She turns to one of the guards. “</span></em><em><span style="font-size: 12px">Bomilcar</span></em><em><span style="font-size: 12px">.” He steps forward and presents his thumb.</span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p> <span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px">Discussion arises among the party about do they really want an eight foot tall heavily muscled man-hardly inconspicuous- following them about. Torthen has other opinions and is all for being bonded to someone who has a considerably good chance of surviving any tough fights along the way. The silver needle extracts some of the guard’s blood which is placed in the vial.</span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p> <span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px">Shealis turns to Torthen. “</span></em><em><span style="font-size: 12px">Would you mind presenting me with your hand?</span></em><em><span style="font-size: 12px">”</span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p> <span style="color: White"><em>“</em><em><span style="font-size: 12px">Sure</span></em><em><span style="font-size: 12px">.” He takes off his glove and extends his hand. Again Shealis extracts some blood to be placed in the same vial, and mixes them together while saying an incantation. She decants the main vial into two smaller ones and passes them to Torthen and Bomilcar for safekeeping. </span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span> </p><p> <span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px">The man from the depositary tower, the Lieutenant, steps forward to Aramil. “</span></em><em><span style="font-size: 12px">Here you go</span></em><em><span style="font-size: 12px">.” He hands the box over. “</span></em><em><span style="font-size: 12px">I’d rather you don’t tell us how you are getting out the city</span></em><em><span style="font-size: 12px">.” </span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p> <span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span> </p><p> <span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px">Meanwhile, Boomer speaks to Bomilcar. “</span></em><em><span style="font-size: 12px">Should the need arise will you fight alongside us or stay behind?</span></em><em><span style="font-size: 12px">” Bomilcar responds with some well executed air thrusts of his spear. </span></em></span> </p><p> <span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px">At this Boomer asks. “</span></em><em><span style="font-size: 12px">Might I ask you to stand behind us in battle?</span></em><em><span style="font-size: 12px">”</span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p> <span style="color: White"><em>“</em><em><span style="font-size: 12px">The Sacred Band does not stand behind anyone</span></em><em><span style="font-size: 12px">.”</span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p> <span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px">Aramil steps forward with his package. “</span></em><em><span style="font-size: 12px">Will you be willing to follow my orders in battle?</span></em><em><span style="font-size: 12px">”</span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p> <span style="color: White"><em>“</em><em><span style="font-size: 12px">Do your companions?</span></em><em><span style="font-size: 12px">” Bomilcar fixes an eye on him.</span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p> <span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px">Aramil shrugs. “</span></em><em><span style="font-size: 12px">Mostly</span></em><em><span style="font-size: 12px">.”</span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p> <span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px">Bomilcar nods. “</span></em><em><span style="font-size: 12px">If you earn my respect then I will follow you</span></em><em><span style="font-size: 12px">.”</span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p> <span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px">Aramil accepts this. “</span></em><em><span style="font-size: 12px">We will see how it goes</span></em><em><span style="font-size: 12px">.” </span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span> </p><p> <span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px">Shealis smiles quickly and claps her hands in command. “</span></em><em><span style="font-size: 12px">I am fairly gratified to see you boys getting along so well but go!</span></em><em><span style="font-size: 12px">”</span></em></span></p><p> <span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px">Bomilcar nods quickly at Shealis and turns to the others. “</span></em><em><span style="font-size: 12px">I will meet you at the enclave gates. I must change.</span></em><em><span style="font-size: 12px">”</span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p> <span style="color: White"><em>“</em><em><span style="font-size: 12px">So after... he can find his way back?</span></em><em><span style="font-size: 12px">” enquires Boomer of Shealis.</span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p> <span style="color: White"><em>“</em><em><span style="font-size: 12px">He can return by himself, he is quite capable. Torthen and Bomilcar need to be in the same room to break the spell.” With that Shealis leaves.</span></em></span></p><p> <span style="color: White"></span></p><p><span style="color: White"></span> </p><p> <span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px">While making their way to the gates to wait for Bomilcar, who is changing into less conspicious garb, (leaving the box behind, of course) the group quietly discuss their situation. They have the box and Zama tentatively onside. At present they don’t have a way out of the city and there is an Arcanis cell in the city looking for the box and trying to assassinate officials.</span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p> <span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px">It is agreed that Boomer should collect Sonea as they swing past Gabals on the way to the Temple where Torrent should meet up with them. </span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span> </p><p> <span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px">The blizzard seems to be lessening, no longer a white out, but still snowing with drifts. Dara knows this isn’t particularly natural. A blizzard like this should be blowing for the rest of the day. She also notices that they are still being tailed by the strange rat but now a crow is at it as well, neither of them appearing at the same time . The way the crow flaps its wings it should not be able to fly. The rat isn’t actually scurrying the way it should either.</span></em></span></p><p> <span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span> </p><p> <span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px">As the groups waits, Aramil relates what he knows of the Sacred Band. The sacred band of Zama is a religious order as well as a professional army- all its members are sworn to the God Yhallos and the Goddess Tanit. Most of its martial types are Paladins with a strong smattering of clerics, invokers, swordmages, fighters, wizards and warlords. </span></em></span><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px">Bomilcar arrives a moment or two later, dressed as an outdoor traveller. </span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span> </p><p> <span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px">Bomilcar has short hair and is built like a small ogre, he looks rather martial. He doesn’t say anything, just falls in behind and marches. </span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span> </p><p> <span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px">Mikal looks at him sideways. “</span></em><em><span style="font-size: 12px">Oi soldier boy! Breakstep</span></em><em><span style="font-size: 12px">.”</span></em></span></p><p> <span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px">Bomilcar changes his gate.</span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p> <span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px">Aramil observes this. “</span></em><em><span style="font-size: 12px">Oh great, instead of an eight foot soldier we have an eight foot man who walks like he sh*t himself.</span></em><em><span style="font-size: 12px">”</span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p> <span style="color: White"><em>“</em><em><span style="font-size: 12px">Walk like you’re a skirmisher</span></em><em><span style="font-size: 12px">.” Adds Boomer helpfully.</span></em></span></p><p> <span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px">Bomilcar looks indignant. “</span></em><em><span style="font-size: 12px">Do I look like a skirmisher to you boy?</span></em><em><span style="font-size: 12px">”</span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p> <span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px">Boomer shrugs. “</span></em><em><span style="font-size: 12px">No but that is the problem</span></em><em><span style="font-size: 12px">.”</span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p> <span style="color: White"><em>“</em><em><span style="font-size: 12px">He looks more like a trebuchet</span></em><em><span style="font-size: 12px">.” Laughs Mikal.</span></em></span></p><p> <span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px">Shadow Dancer is greatly amused at the exchanges.</span></em></span></p><p> <span style="color: White"></span></p><p><span style="color: White"></span> </p><p> <span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px">The group heads off, Boomer to Gabals and the rest to the Temple.</span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p> <span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px">The box is the size of a small crate; it’s double wrapped in red cloaks and stuffed in a pack to hide the glow as it is carried on Aramil’s back.</span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p> <span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px">Eventually arriving at the temple they find it to be largely deserted. The few wounded that are left are the ones who probably won’t make it. No sign of Buron and Torrent but a priest advises that they are downstairs where some of the priests are cleaning up and reconsecrating the tomb below.</span></em></span></p><p> <span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px">Inside the door beside the altar the two half orcs glare then relax as the door opens. They advise that there have been no more problems from the crypt. </span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span> </p><p> <span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px">Everyone heads down to the room in the cellars where they find Buron and a Halfling dressed in leather clothing, not particularly martial looking, talking to Torrent and Badger (who looks like the walking dead). Badger is sitting in a chair and is wrapped in several blankets. </span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span> </p><p> <span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px">The conversion stops abruptly.</span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p> <span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px">Aramil walks in. “</span></em><em><span style="font-size: 12px">Don’t let us interrupt you</span></em><em><span style="font-size: 12px">.”</span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p> <span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px">Buron fumes visibly and points a white finger at Bomilcar. “</span></em><em><span style="font-size: 12px">Who is that and why is he here?"</span></em></span></p><p></p><p></p><p> <span style="color: White"><em>“</em><em><span style="font-size: 12px">Bomilcar here is going to be accompanying us</span></em><em><span style="font-size: 12px">.” Aramil informs him cheerfully.</span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p> <span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px">Buron looks at the huge man “</span></em><em><span style="font-size: 12px">Would you excuse us?</span></em><em><span style="font-size: 12px">”</span></em></span></p><p> <span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px">Bomilcar shrugs and leaves, closing the door behind him.</span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p> <span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px">Buron turns on those present. “</span></em><em><span style="font-size: 12px">Bomilcar is a Zaman name! Why is he here</span></em><em><span style="font-size: 12px">?”</span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p> <span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px">Aramil holds his hands up. “</span></em><em><span style="font-size: 12px">Good news and bad news. We have the box</span></em><em><span style="font-size: 12px">.”</span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p> <span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px">Buron nods. “</span></em><em><span style="font-size: 12px">Excellent</span></em><em><span style="font-size: 12px">.” Going quiet and with precise speech he continues. “</span></em><em><span style="font-size: 12px">Why is he here?</span></em><em><span style="font-size: 12px">”</span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p> <span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px">Unintimidated Aramil looks at him. “</span></em><em><span style="font-size: 12px">That’s why he is here</span></em><em><span style="font-size: 12px">.”</span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p> <span style="color: White"><em>“</em><em><span style="font-size: 12px">You know the dwarf? We swapped him</span></em><em><span style="font-size: 12px">.” Adds Mikal helpfully.</span></em></span></p><p> <span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px">The Halfling holds up his hands “</span></em><em><span style="font-size: 12px">Wait, wait, wait! I don’t need to hear anything else. I was here only to help in getting the box</span></em><em><span style="font-size: 12px">.” He turns and leaves though the door, closing it behind him.</span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p> <span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px">Torrent explains just how unhappy she is. She has spent half the morning looking for the Halfling sorcerer only to find they won’t need him!</span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p> <span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px">The air just about seethes with the anger from the senior resistance members, upset is an understatement.</span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p> <span style="color: White"><em>“</em><em><span style="font-size: 12px">Ok. For the moment we have the box. We are assisting the Zamans to an extent. Most importantly we have the box.</span></em><em><span style="font-size: 12px">” Aramil tries to placate the gathering storm.</span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p> <span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px">Torrent narrows her eyes. “</span></em><em><span style="font-size: 12px">What did you promise them?</span></em><em><span style="font-size: 12px">”</span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p> <span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px">Aramil cracks half a smile, hopeful. “</span></em><em><span style="font-size: 12px">A wee look?</span></em><em><span style="font-size: 12px">”</span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p> <span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px">Mikal assures quickly. “</span></em><em><span style="font-size: 12px">When we are on neutral territory and we open it</span></em><em><span style="font-size: 12px">.”</span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p> <span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px">Torrent glares almost open mouthed at them. “</span></em><em><span style="font-size: 12px">What was the last thing I said before I went to sleep?</span></em><em><span style="font-size: 12px">” Her hands are almost shaking now with anger.</span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p> <span style="color: White"><em>“</em><em><span style="font-size: 12px">Goodnight?</span></em><em><span style="font-size: 12px">” Aramil, Shadow Dancer and Mikal know they shouldn’t have but they couldn’t help themselves and offer the pithy answer in chorus.</span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p> <span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px">Torrent holds her breath and turns a fetching shade of purple.</span></em></span></p><p> <span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px">Before she can explode Mikal suggests that they don’t let the Zamans get to see what is inside the box.</span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p> <span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px">Shadow Dancer leans forward. “</span></em><em><span style="font-size: 12px">Buron, I strongly suggest you don’t carry on with your line of questioning.</span></em><em><span style="font-size: 12px">”</span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p> <span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px">Aramil nods. “</span></em><em><span style="font-size: 12px">It’s a problem we can work around, for access to the box</span></em><em><span style="font-size: 12px">.”</span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p> <span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px">Torrent’s arms are straight through tension, she just manages to voice through clenched teeth. “</span></em><em><span style="font-size: 12px">DON’T. DO. ANYTHING. CONSPICIOUS!</span></em><em><span style="font-size: 12px">”</span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p> <span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px">Mikal shrugs and gives it a stir. “</span></em><em><span style="font-size: 12px">It’s not conspicuous. Blatant, but not conspicuous</span></em><em><span style="font-size: 12px">.”</span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p> <span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px">Torrent and Buron do not look in any way, shape or form amused.</span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p> <span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px">At the end of his rope, Buron turns to Torrent. “</span></em><em><span style="font-size: 12px">I thought you would have been able to control your own cell!</span></em><em><span style="font-size: 12px">”</span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p> <span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px">Badger raises a pale hand. “</span></em><em><span style="font-size: 12px">Let’s not discuss this in public. Gentleman you have the box. What have you done about the assassins?</span></em><em><span style="font-size: 12px">”</span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p> <span style="color: White"><em>“</em><em><span style="font-size: 12px">Working on that now</span></em><em><span style="font-size: 12px">.” Aramil gladly answers Badger.</span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p> <span style="color: White"><em>“</em><em><span style="font-size: 12px">We had to get the box before we could work on those</span></em><em><span style="font-size: 12px">.” Adds Mikal.</span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p> <span style="color: White"><em>“</em><em><span style="font-size: 12px">Would knowing they have been here a week help?</span></em><em><span style="font-size: 12px">” offers Shadow.</span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p> <span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px">Badger eyes him. “</span></em><em><span style="font-size: 12px">What else do you know?</span></em><em><span style="font-size: 12px">”</span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p> <span style="color: White"><em>“</em><em><span style="font-size: 12px">The Zamans are aware they are here</span></em><em><span style="font-size: 12px">.”</span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p> <span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px">Badger nods. “</span></em><em><span style="font-size: 12px">Interesting.</span></em><em><span style="font-size: 12px">” He explains “</span></em><em><span style="font-size: 12px">Generally speaking the Zamans only tell us what they want us to hear. Half of it is lies.</span></em><em><span style="font-size: 12px">”</span></em></span></p><p> <span style="color: White"></span></p><p><span style="color: White"></span> </p><p> <span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px">Outside Boomer arrives at the temple and in the stairwell finds Bomilcar at the door.</span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p> <span style="color: White"><em>“</em><em><span style="font-size: 12px">Ah Bomilcar! Having a discussion in there are they?</span></em><em><span style="font-size: 12px">” Boomer asks slyly.</span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p> <span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px">Bomilcar nods curtly. enitely unabashed.</span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p> <span style="color: White"><em>“</em><em><span style="font-size: 12px">Not listening are you?</span></em><em><span style="font-size: 12px">” he continues.</span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p> <span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px">Bomilcar shakes his head, evidently trying to hide a smil .</span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p> <span style="color: White"><em>“</em><em><span style="font-size: 12px">They didn’t send out anyone else?</span></em><em><span style="font-size: 12px">”</span></em></span></p><p> <span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px">Bomilcar shakes his head again, stifling his laughter.</span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p> <span style="color: White"><em>“</em><em><span style="font-size: 12px">I think you should accompany me to the common room</span></em><em><span style="font-size: 12px">.” Boomer smiles and nods agreeably.</span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p> <span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px">The giant of a man agrees. “</span></em><em><span style="font-size: 12px">In the interests of cooperation between our two covert bodies I’ll accompany you.</span></em><em><span style="font-size: 12px">”</span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p> <span style="color: White"><em>“</em><em><span style="font-size: 12px"><strong>Thanks!</strong></span></em><em><span style="font-size: 12px">” Mikal’s voice is heard from behind the door.</span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p> <span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px">Boomer leads Bomilcar away to a common room and has some off-duty half orc guards keep an eye on him. They have orders to come find Boomer if need be</span></em></span></p><p> <span style="color: White"></span></p><p><span style="color: White"></span> </p><p> <span style="color: White"><em>“</em><em><span style="font-size: 12px">You do know you sent him to listen at the door?</span></em><em><span style="font-size: 12px">” Mikal looks at Buron.</span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p> <span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px">Buron glares. “</span></em><em><span style="font-size: 12px">Mikal get out! Just get out! All of you just get OUT!</span></em><em><span style="font-size: 12px">”</span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p> <span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px">At this Boomer enters. “</span></em><em><span style="font-size: 12px">Which idiot just told him to stand outside the door?</span></em><em><span style="font-size: 12px">”</span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p> <span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px">Buron erupts completely. “</span></em><em><span style="font-size: 12px">GET OUT!</span></em><em><span style="font-size: 12px">”</span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p> <span style="color: White"></span></p><p><span style="color: White"></span> </p><p> <span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px">The party leave for the relative safety and calm of the common room to find some heat and refreshments. In the stairwell Mikal asks “</span></em><em><span style="font-size: 12px">Quick question. Has anyone noticed anyone following us or anything strange or magical with Bomilcar?</span></em><em><span style="font-size: 12px">”</span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p> <span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px">Dara explains about the snow and the strange creatures following their movements.</span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p> <span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px">Mikal asks if the rat or crow was at the same time.</span></em></span></p><p> <span style="color: White"><em>“</em><em><span style="font-size: 12px">Separately</span></em><em><span style="font-size: 12px">.” Dara is sure. </span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span> </p><p> <span style="color: White"><em>“</em><em><span style="font-size: 12px">It could be one creature taking two forms or many</span></em><em><span style="font-size: 12px">.” Mulls Shadow.</span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p> <span style="color: White"><em>“</em><em><span style="font-size: 12px">Next time you see either of them give us a sign</span></em><em><span style="font-size: 12px">.” Aramil asks.</span></em></span></p><p> <span style="color: White"></span></p><p><span style="color: White"></span> </p><p> <span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px">On entering the common room some people can’t help but angle for some fun.</span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p> <span style="color: White"><em>“</em><em><span style="font-size: 12px">Ah! There you are Bombastic!</span></em><em><span style="font-size: 12px">” Boomer grins.</span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p> <span style="color: White"><em>“</em><em><span style="font-size: 12px">BOMILCAR</span></em><em><span style="font-size: 12px">.” Bomilcar roars at Boomer.</span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p> <span style="color: White"><em>“</em><em><span style="font-size: 12px">Hello Bobblehat</span></em><em><span style="font-size: 12px">.” Mikal joins in.</span></em></span></p><p> <span style="color: White"><em>“</em><em><span style="font-size: 12px">Bamboozel.” Laughs Shadow.</span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p> <span style="color: White"><em>“</em><em><span style="font-size: 12px">Oh.</span></em> <em><span style="font-size: 12px">You were addressing me?</span></em><em><span style="font-size: 12px">” Bomilcar looks round at them. “</span></em><em><span style="font-size: 12px">I thought you were addressing the others. You haven’t introduced yourselves.</span></em><em><span style="font-size: 12px">” He snarls pointedly.</span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p> <span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px">At this they give in and make their introductions.</span></em></span></p><p> <span style="color: White"></span></p><p><span style="color: White"></span> </p><p> <span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px">In the common room while having a rest, drying off and having refreshments, discussion forms over other ways to get to the Lyceum -noone seems keen to risk the Burning Forest. First of all they need to get out the city. Mikal suggests leaving through the Eastern gate and then travelling South. </span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span> </p><p> <span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px">It is pointed out that only people with approved passes can exit through the gates and as Bomilcar explains Gate Pass has descriptions and sketchings of all Zamans in the city for immigration control so this will make things tricky.</span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p> <span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px">As they are speaking Boomer detects a very faint glow coming from the cat’s eye gem in the pommel on Bomilcar’s sword- a scrying gem. He observes that it’s faint and muted, musing that this is probably because it is inactive. Boomer decides to tell Aramil about this as soon as he can.</span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px"></span></em></span></p><p> <span style="color: White"><em><span style="font-size: 12px">Aramil focuses people’s attention by summing up where they stand currently. “</span></em><em><span style="font-size: 12px">We have the box, the Zamans are on-side,</span></em><em><span style="font-size: 12px">” He nods at Bomilcar. “</span></em><em><span style="font-size: 12px">we are being surveyed, we need a writ to exit the city, Diogeanese is the highest placed person in the city we know, and there is an Arcanis cell trying to kill high up people in Gate Pass.</span></em><em><span style="font-size: 12px">”</span></em></span></p><p> <span style="color: White"></span></p><p><span style="color: White"></span></p></blockquote><p></p>
[QUOTE="Calavingian, post: 5019707, member: 86503"] Session 4 part 2[COLOR=White] [/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3]Shealis leads everyone from Gabals, with Mikal and Dara introducing themselves as the others join them outside. Naturally, Sonea is left where she is as stopping to collect her would reveal to Diogeanese’s involvement. They are led East through various lightly manned gates. The first day of the New Year is still very, very cold with the complete white out of snow. This makes it difficult to follow the path but eventually they reach the Zaman canton. The men on the gates are obviously members of the Zaman Sacred Band (professional soldiers of Zama’s standing army -widely regarded as the finest fighting men in Edarnia). [/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3]Tall well muscled men in enchanted runic bronze armour, carrying tall spears, large circular bronze shields and wearing crestless hoplite helmets greet them coldly. Despite the cold all they wear under their armour are leather cups, sandals and a thick purple war cloak. [/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3]Within the walls of the canton the streets are clean and organised. Everyone is well dressed. The place is calm and all the buildings are untouched. As they are lead through a maze of streets they see that the homes are villas and the shops are large and open, definitely affluent.[/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3]Along a street they are lead to a shop, a door makers shop by the sign outside, and lead around the back and in through a no-longer quite- so-secret door. [/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3]On the way from the gates Dara has noticed a rat behaving strangely outside – it does not scurry close to the walls as a rat should and instead runs in the open.[/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3]Inside they find the loud yapping and barking of three fire-wreathed dogs. Dara immediately smiles and thinks to herself ‘I want one of those!’ She recognises them as Guardian solons- the weakest form of solon.[/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3]Three large stocky men dressed as members of the Sacred Band stand in the room along with the man from the depositary tower. None of them look surprised to see who Shealis has brought with her.[/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3]Inside the house is one big empty unfurnished nothing, a space with a ladder going up to the loft. [/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3]Shealis excuses herself and, accompanied by the man from the depositary- her lieutenant- she climbs the ladder. [/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3]Torthen stoops down and pets one of the dogs without ill effect (thanks to his fire resistant armour). It’s hard to determine who is more surprised, the dogs or the guards.[/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3]A few moments later Shealis and the lieutenant come back down the ladder with the blue glowing box. It looks just like the illusionary one. The guards are close by. [/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3]Shealis has two glass vials and a long silver needle. She turns to one of the guards. “[/SIZE][/I][I][SIZE=3]Bomilcar[/SIZE][/I][I][SIZE=3].” He steps forward and presents his thumb.[/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3]Discussion arises among the party about do they really want an eight foot tall heavily muscled man-hardly inconspicuous- following them about. Torthen has other opinions and is all for being bonded to someone who has a considerably good chance of surviving any tough fights along the way. The silver needle extracts some of the guard’s blood which is placed in the vial.[/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3]Shealis turns to Torthen. “[/SIZE][/I][I][SIZE=3]Would you mind presenting me with your hand?[/SIZE][/I][I][SIZE=3]”[/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I]“[/I][I][SIZE=3]Sure[/SIZE][/I][I][SIZE=3].” He takes off his glove and extends his hand. Again Shealis extracts some blood to be placed in the same vial, and mixes them together while saying an incantation. She decants the main vial into two smaller ones and passes them to Torthen and Bomilcar for safekeeping. [/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3]The man from the depositary tower, the Lieutenant, steps forward to Aramil. “[/SIZE][/I][I][SIZE=3]Here you go[/SIZE][/I][I][SIZE=3].” He hands the box over. “[/SIZE][/I][I][SIZE=3]I’d rather you don’t tell us how you are getting out the city[/SIZE][/I][I][SIZE=3].” [/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3]Meanwhile, Boomer speaks to Bomilcar. “[/SIZE][/I][I][SIZE=3]Should the need arise will you fight alongside us or stay behind?[/SIZE][/I][I][SIZE=3]” Bomilcar responds with some well executed air thrusts of his spear. [/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3]At this Boomer asks. “[/SIZE][/I][I][SIZE=3]Might I ask you to stand behind us in battle?[/SIZE][/I][I][SIZE=3]”[/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I]“[/I][I][SIZE=3]The Sacred Band does not stand behind anyone[/SIZE][/I][I][SIZE=3].”[/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3]Aramil steps forward with his package. “[/SIZE][/I][I][SIZE=3]Will you be willing to follow my orders in battle?[/SIZE][/I][I][SIZE=3]”[/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I]“[/I][I][SIZE=3]Do your companions?[/SIZE][/I][I][SIZE=3]” Bomilcar fixes an eye on him.[/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3]Aramil shrugs. “[/SIZE][/I][I][SIZE=3]Mostly[/SIZE][/I][I][SIZE=3].”[/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3]Bomilcar nods. “[/SIZE][/I][I][SIZE=3]If you earn my respect then I will follow you[/SIZE][/I][I][SIZE=3].”[/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3]Aramil accepts this. “[/SIZE][/I][I][SIZE=3]We will see how it goes[/SIZE][/I][I][SIZE=3].” [/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3]Shealis smiles quickly and claps her hands in command. “[/SIZE][/I][I][SIZE=3]I am fairly gratified to see you boys getting along so well but go![/SIZE][/I][I][SIZE=3]”[/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3]Bomilcar nods quickly at Shealis and turns to the others. “[/SIZE][/I][I][SIZE=3]I will meet you at the enclave gates. I must change.[/SIZE][/I][I][SIZE=3]”[/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I]“[/I][I][SIZE=3]So after... he can find his way back?[/SIZE][/I][I][SIZE=3]” enquires Boomer of Shealis.[/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I]“[/I][I][SIZE=3]He can return by himself, he is quite capable. Torthen and Bomilcar need to be in the same room to break the spell.” With that Shealis leaves.[/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White] [/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3]While making their way to the gates to wait for Bomilcar, who is changing into less conspicious garb, (leaving the box behind, of course) the group quietly discuss their situation. They have the box and Zama tentatively onside. At present they don’t have a way out of the city and there is an Arcanis cell in the city looking for the box and trying to assassinate officials.[/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3]It is agreed that Boomer should collect Sonea as they swing past Gabals on the way to the Temple where Torrent should meet up with them. [/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3]The blizzard seems to be lessening, no longer a white out, but still snowing with drifts. Dara knows this isn’t particularly natural. A blizzard like this should be blowing for the rest of the day. She also notices that they are still being tailed by the strange rat but now a crow is at it as well, neither of them appearing at the same time . The way the crow flaps its wings it should not be able to fly. The rat isn’t actually scurrying the way it should either.[/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3]As the groups waits, Aramil relates what he knows of the Sacred Band. The sacred band of Zama is a religious order as well as a professional army- all its members are sworn to the God Yhallos and the Goddess Tanit. Most of its martial types are Paladins with a strong smattering of clerics, invokers, swordmages, fighters, wizards and warlords. [/SIZE][/I][/COLOR][COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3]Bomilcar arrives a moment or two later, dressed as an outdoor traveller. [/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3]Bomilcar has short hair and is built like a small ogre, he looks rather martial. He doesn’t say anything, just falls in behind and marches. [/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3]Mikal looks at him sideways. “[/SIZE][/I][I][SIZE=3]Oi soldier boy! Breakstep[/SIZE][/I][I][SIZE=3].”[/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3]Bomilcar changes his gate.[/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3]Aramil observes this. “[/SIZE][/I][I][SIZE=3]Oh great, instead of an eight foot soldier we have an eight foot man who walks like he sh*t himself.[/SIZE][/I][I][SIZE=3]”[/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I]“[/I][I][SIZE=3]Walk like you’re a skirmisher[/SIZE][/I][I][SIZE=3].” Adds Boomer helpfully.[/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3]Bomilcar looks indignant. “[/SIZE][/I][I][SIZE=3]Do I look like a skirmisher to you boy?[/SIZE][/I][I][SIZE=3]”[/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3]Boomer shrugs. “[/SIZE][/I][I][SIZE=3]No but that is the problem[/SIZE][/I][I][SIZE=3].”[/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I]“[/I][I][SIZE=3]He looks more like a trebuchet[/SIZE][/I][I][SIZE=3].” Laughs Mikal.[/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3]Shadow Dancer is greatly amused at the exchanges.[/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White] [/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3]The group heads off, Boomer to Gabals and the rest to the Temple.[/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3]The box is the size of a small crate; it’s double wrapped in red cloaks and stuffed in a pack to hide the glow as it is carried on Aramil’s back.[/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3]Eventually arriving at the temple they find it to be largely deserted. The few wounded that are left are the ones who probably won’t make it. No sign of Buron and Torrent but a priest advises that they are downstairs where some of the priests are cleaning up and reconsecrating the tomb below.[/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3]Inside the door beside the altar the two half orcs glare then relax as the door opens. They advise that there have been no more problems from the crypt. [/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3]Everyone heads down to the room in the cellars where they find Buron and a Halfling dressed in leather clothing, not particularly martial looking, talking to Torrent and Badger (who looks like the walking dead). Badger is sitting in a chair and is wrapped in several blankets. [/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3]The conversion stops abruptly.[/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3]Aramil walks in. “[/SIZE][/I][I][SIZE=3]Don’t let us interrupt you[/SIZE][/I][I][SIZE=3].”[/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3]Buron fumes visibly and points a white finger at Bomilcar. “[/SIZE][/I][I][SIZE=3]Who is that and why is he here?"[/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3][/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I]“[/I][I][SIZE=3]Bomilcar here is going to be accompanying us[/SIZE][/I][I][SIZE=3].” Aramil informs him cheerfully.[/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3]Buron looks at the huge man “[/SIZE][/I][I][SIZE=3]Would you excuse us?[/SIZE][/I][I][SIZE=3]”[/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3]Bomilcar shrugs and leaves, closing the door behind him.[/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3]Buron turns on those present. “[/SIZE][/I][I][SIZE=3]Bomilcar is a Zaman name! Why is he here[/SIZE][/I][I][SIZE=3]?”[/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3]Aramil holds his hands up. “[/SIZE][/I][I][SIZE=3]Good news and bad news. We have the box[/SIZE][/I][I][SIZE=3].”[/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3]Buron nods. “[/SIZE][/I][I][SIZE=3]Excellent[/SIZE][/I][I][SIZE=3].” Going quiet and with precise speech he continues. “[/SIZE][/I][I][SIZE=3]Why is he here?[/SIZE][/I][I][SIZE=3]”[/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3]Unintimidated Aramil looks at him. “[/SIZE][/I][I][SIZE=3]That’s why he is here[/SIZE][/I][I][SIZE=3].”[/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I]“[/I][I][SIZE=3]You know the dwarf? We swapped him[/SIZE][/I][I][SIZE=3].” Adds Mikal helpfully.[/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3]The Halfling holds up his hands “[/SIZE][/I][I][SIZE=3]Wait, wait, wait! I don’t need to hear anything else. I was here only to help in getting the box[/SIZE][/I][I][SIZE=3].” He turns and leaves though the door, closing it behind him.[/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3]Torrent explains just how unhappy she is. She has spent half the morning looking for the Halfling sorcerer only to find they won’t need him![/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3]The air just about seethes with the anger from the senior resistance members, upset is an understatement.[/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I]“[/I][I][SIZE=3]Ok. For the moment we have the box. We are assisting the Zamans to an extent. Most importantly we have the box.[/SIZE][/I][I][SIZE=3]” Aramil tries to placate the gathering storm.[/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3]Torrent narrows her eyes. “[/SIZE][/I][I][SIZE=3]What did you promise them?[/SIZE][/I][I][SIZE=3]”[/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3]Aramil cracks half a smile, hopeful. “[/SIZE][/I][I][SIZE=3]A wee look?[/SIZE][/I][I][SIZE=3]”[/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3]Mikal assures quickly. “[/SIZE][/I][I][SIZE=3]When we are on neutral territory and we open it[/SIZE][/I][I][SIZE=3].”[/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3]Torrent glares almost open mouthed at them. “[/SIZE][/I][I][SIZE=3]What was the last thing I said before I went to sleep?[/SIZE][/I][I][SIZE=3]” Her hands are almost shaking now with anger.[/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I]“[/I][I][SIZE=3]Goodnight?[/SIZE][/I][I][SIZE=3]” Aramil, Shadow Dancer and Mikal know they shouldn’t have but they couldn’t help themselves and offer the pithy answer in chorus.[/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3]Torrent holds her breath and turns a fetching shade of purple.[/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3]Before she can explode Mikal suggests that they don’t let the Zamans get to see what is inside the box.[/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3]Shadow Dancer leans forward. “[/SIZE][/I][I][SIZE=3]Buron, I strongly suggest you don’t carry on with your line of questioning.[/SIZE][/I][I][SIZE=3]”[/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3]Aramil nods. “[/SIZE][/I][I][SIZE=3]It’s a problem we can work around, for access to the box[/SIZE][/I][I][SIZE=3].”[/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3]Torrent’s arms are straight through tension, she just manages to voice through clenched teeth. “[/SIZE][/I][I][SIZE=3]DON’T. DO. ANYTHING. CONSPICIOUS![/SIZE][/I][I][SIZE=3]”[/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3]Mikal shrugs and gives it a stir. “[/SIZE][/I][I][SIZE=3]It’s not conspicuous. Blatant, but not conspicuous[/SIZE][/I][I][SIZE=3].”[/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3]Torrent and Buron do not look in any way, shape or form amused.[/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3]At the end of his rope, Buron turns to Torrent. “[/SIZE][/I][I][SIZE=3]I thought you would have been able to control your own cell![/SIZE][/I][I][SIZE=3]”[/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3]Badger raises a pale hand. “[/SIZE][/I][I][SIZE=3]Let’s not discuss this in public. Gentleman you have the box. What have you done about the assassins?[/SIZE][/I][I][SIZE=3]”[/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I]“[/I][I][SIZE=3]Working on that now[/SIZE][/I][I][SIZE=3].” Aramil gladly answers Badger.[/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I]“[/I][I][SIZE=3]We had to get the box before we could work on those[/SIZE][/I][I][SIZE=3].” Adds Mikal.[/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I]“[/I][I][SIZE=3]Would knowing they have been here a week help?[/SIZE][/I][I][SIZE=3]” offers Shadow.[/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3]Badger eyes him. “[/SIZE][/I][I][SIZE=3]What else do you know?[/SIZE][/I][I][SIZE=3]”[/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I]“[/I][I][SIZE=3]The Zamans are aware they are here[/SIZE][/I][I][SIZE=3].”[/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3]Badger nods. “[/SIZE][/I][I][SIZE=3]Interesting.[/SIZE][/I][I][SIZE=3]” He explains “[/SIZE][/I][I][SIZE=3]Generally speaking the Zamans only tell us what they want us to hear. Half of it is lies.[/SIZE][/I][I][SIZE=3]”[/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White] [/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3]Outside Boomer arrives at the temple and in the stairwell finds Bomilcar at the door.[/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I]“[/I][I][SIZE=3]Ah Bomilcar! Having a discussion in there are they?[/SIZE][/I][I][SIZE=3]” Boomer asks slyly.[/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3]Bomilcar nods curtly. enitely unabashed.[/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I]“[/I][I][SIZE=3]Not listening are you?[/SIZE][/I][I][SIZE=3]” he continues.[/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3]Bomilcar shakes his head, evidently trying to hide a smil .[/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I]“[/I][I][SIZE=3]They didn’t send out anyone else?[/SIZE][/I][I][SIZE=3]”[/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3]Bomilcar shakes his head again, stifling his laughter.[/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I]“[/I][I][SIZE=3]I think you should accompany me to the common room[/SIZE][/I][I][SIZE=3].” Boomer smiles and nods agreeably.[/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3]The giant of a man agrees. “[/SIZE][/I][I][SIZE=3]In the interests of cooperation between our two covert bodies I’ll accompany you.[/SIZE][/I][I][SIZE=3]”[/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I]“[/I][I][SIZE=3][B]Thanks![/B][/SIZE][/I][I][SIZE=3]” Mikal’s voice is heard from behind the door.[/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3]Boomer leads Bomilcar away to a common room and has some off-duty half orc guards keep an eye on him. They have orders to come find Boomer if need be[/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White] [/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I]“[/I][I][SIZE=3]You do know you sent him to listen at the door?[/SIZE][/I][I][SIZE=3]” Mikal looks at Buron.[/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3]Buron glares. “[/SIZE][/I][I][SIZE=3]Mikal get out! Just get out! All of you just get OUT![/SIZE][/I][I][SIZE=3]”[/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3]At this Boomer enters. “[/SIZE][/I][I][SIZE=3]Which idiot just told him to stand outside the door?[/SIZE][/I][I][SIZE=3]”[/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3]Buron erupts completely. “[/SIZE][/I][I][SIZE=3]GET OUT![/SIZE][/I][I][SIZE=3]”[/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White] [/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3]The party leave for the relative safety and calm of the common room to find some heat and refreshments. In the stairwell Mikal asks “[/SIZE][/I][I][SIZE=3]Quick question. Has anyone noticed anyone following us or anything strange or magical with Bomilcar?[/SIZE][/I][I][SIZE=3]”[/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3]Dara explains about the snow and the strange creatures following their movements.[/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3]Mikal asks if the rat or crow was at the same time.[/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I]“[/I][I][SIZE=3]Separately[/SIZE][/I][I][SIZE=3].” Dara is sure. [/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I]“[/I][I][SIZE=3]It could be one creature taking two forms or many[/SIZE][/I][I][SIZE=3].” Mulls Shadow.[/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I]“[/I][I][SIZE=3]Next time you see either of them give us a sign[/SIZE][/I][I][SIZE=3].” Aramil asks.[/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White] [/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3]On entering the common room some people can’t help but angle for some fun.[/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I]“[/I][I][SIZE=3]Ah! There you are Bombastic![/SIZE][/I][I][SIZE=3]” Boomer grins.[/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I]“[/I][I][SIZE=3]BOMILCAR[/SIZE][/I][I][SIZE=3].” Bomilcar roars at Boomer.[/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I]“[/I][I][SIZE=3]Hello Bobblehat[/SIZE][/I][I][SIZE=3].” Mikal joins in.[/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I]“[/I][I][SIZE=3]Bamboozel.” Laughs Shadow.[/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I]“[/I][I][SIZE=3]Oh.[/SIZE][/I][I][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/I][I][SIZE=3]You were addressing me?[/SIZE][/I][I][SIZE=3]” Bomilcar looks round at them. “[/SIZE][/I][I][SIZE=3]I thought you were addressing the others. You haven’t introduced yourselves.[/SIZE][/I][I][SIZE=3]” He snarls pointedly. [/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3]At this they give in and make their introductions.[/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White] [/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3]In the common room while having a rest, drying off and having refreshments, discussion forms over other ways to get to the Lyceum -noone seems keen to risk the Burning Forest. First of all they need to get out the city. Mikal suggests leaving through the Eastern gate and then travelling South. [/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3]It is pointed out that only people with approved passes can exit through the gates and as Bomilcar explains Gate Pass has descriptions and sketchings of all Zamans in the city for immigration control so this will make things tricky.[/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3]As they are speaking Boomer detects a very faint glow coming from the cat’s eye gem in the pommel on Bomilcar’s sword- a scrying gem. He observes that it’s faint and muted, musing that this is probably because it is inactive. Boomer decides to tell Aramil about this as soon as he can.[/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White][I][SIZE=3]Aramil focuses people’s attention by summing up where they stand currently. “[/SIZE][/I][I][SIZE=3]We have the box, the Zamans are on-side,[/SIZE][/I][I][SIZE=3]” He nods at Bomilcar. “[/SIZE][/I][I][SIZE=3]we are being surveyed, we need a writ to exit the city, Diogeanese is the highest placed person in the city we know, and there is an Arcanis cell trying to kill high up people in Gate Pass.[/SIZE][/I][I][SIZE=3]”[/SIZE][/I][/COLOR] [COLOR=White] [/COLOR] [/QUOTE]
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