Prizzard: You find Halidar to be even more crowded than usual as you pass through the massive walled gates and into the poor community. In such a dangerous area it is best to keep one's belongings hidden and one's blade close. Fortunately you are a formidable looking person and this does much to dispel any pickpockets or robbers. Still, there are those who are desperate enough so you keep your wits about you. Koros. You had heard the name only a few weeks ago, not realizing how it would shape your life. He wasn't expecting you, but you had to find him. After all, he had answers that you desperately wanted. The trick was to find the man. You had heard that he lived in the slums of Halidar, but that wouldn't make him easy to track down.

"Halidar..", he mumbled as he paused to look around for changes since his last visit, barely two years past. His oversized cloak hung about him fluidly, worn and ripped all over, yet still capable of hiding his features completely. Even under the worn cloak, his robes and other clothing were torn, leaving very small glimmers of some metal visible underneath the layers. On his back he carried a high-quality scythe, reinforced for use in battle, quite an odd choice. After the brief pause, he stepped into the crowd, his ice-blue eyes continuing to scan for changes through the many small cuts in his hood.

You look around for any clues as to how to find this Koros, but the crowd is so thick that it is hard to k now where to start. Fortunately you know from experience that the best place to find information is to go under the bridge where the shadiest of sorts congregate to do business with each other. Although it is extremely dangerous, it is likely that people there will know him. Still, if one did not want to risk such dangers right away there may be taverns or bars where people could have heard of such a man. Wherever you go for your information, it will cost you.

"Maybe Jeannder will know something of this man.." He thought as he stepped deeper into the thick crowd, his eyes looking quickly through the various holes in his hood, scanning for familiar faces on his way to a little-known tavern-shop in the vicinity of the bridge. He stepped swiftly through the crowd, weaving through openings in the bustling traffic. His hands remained in his cloak: One in his coin pocket, the other ready to act if trouble arose. It would be a long and dangerous enough trip to his destination without interference. Partway into the walk, he spots a local bounty post and scans if while passing by.

As you go by the bounty post you see the usual sketches of those who have a high price on their heads but if your own picture is up there you don't see it. Possibly it is buried beneath the dozen or so others that are on the wall or possibly you would need to stop and look harder to see it. Still, it would be foolish to risk looking with so many guards at the bounty post, which is one of the few places in the slums they dare to go. For this reason and also because of the massive population in the slums, you are actually in the safest place of the city for someone such as yourself. You have more to worry about from pick pockets and robbers than from a bounty hunter, who likely wouldn't get far in the slums without connections.

ooc: Roll your diplomacy, sense motive, search, and spot please.

He does not waver his path, walking straight and seeming to be in as much of a hurry as the others around him. He continues to head for tavern-shop known as the local 'Depot' by those living in the shadows.

00:14, Today: Prizzard rolled 7 using 1d20. Search.
00:13, Today: Prizzard rolled 0 using 1d20-2. Spot.
00:13, Today: Prizzard rolled 17 using 1d20-2. Sense Motive.
00:13, Today: Prizzard rolled 19 using 1d20+2. Diplomacy.

You head to the tavern and find little luck in your search, but you do arrive to the tavern in safety. It is a very crowded place, full of those trying to forget the troubles found in the slums or simply going about their less than legal business transactions. If you are going to find your man, this will be a good place to start. One does not want to go to the bridge if they can help it after all. As you make your questioning you find that you don't have much luck in general, though you have a feeling that one fellow in particular might know more than he is letting on....

ooc: By the way Prizzard, it looks like some of my other players may not be able to join after all so I will eventually be linking your story to the other player's chapter. In the meantime enjoy your personal thread! :D

He waits a moment before re-approaching the one who seems to know more, taking a short moment to study the mans origin and general trade. He removes his hood as he approaches and looks directly into the mans eyes as he speaks low enough to not attract too much attention: "I seek either Koros or Jeannder, and I have a feeling you know, despite your words."

ooc: sounds good, and i'll try! lol.

13:00, Today: Prizzard rolled 31 using 1d20+12. Intimidate.

The fellow is from Iatharias and he seems to be very seedy looking in appearance, which means he must have been here for some time due to the fact that most Iatharian's are very well groomed and presentable looking. He listens to your accusation and his face grows nervous. After debating for a moment he caves. Alright, I will tell you what you want to know, but it will cost you. I want twenty five gold pieces. He demands.

"That seems a bit steep. Many months wages for common folk, possibly years here in the slums." His hand gathers twenty-five pieces from his pocket, switches them to the other hand, and returns to his money pocket. Only after the transfer, his gold-filled hand leaves his cloak with the coins inside and hands out a portion of the coins, approximately ten. "If your information satisfies me, I'll give you the rest."

ooc: That intimidate was near-miraculous. lol

ooc: Yeah you sure got lucky with that one! :D

The man nods, seemingly satisfied that he is actually getting as much as he is getting, though he appears to know his information is valuable. If you want Koros, you will find him past the bridge. He lives in the worst part of the slums on purpose, in order to protect himself from his enemies. You will find that there is a small shack on the other side of the bridge that they use to sell shoes. If you go into the shack you will find a secret door in the back that leads to several tunnels and chambers. Koros resides there. If he isn't there at the time you are, you will at least find someone who can tell you where he is.

Seeming fully unintertained by the information, he hands the man an additional five coins and returns his hand to his cloak after putting his hood back in place. "I will be on my way. I would pay more if there weren't the chance of paying another soon for the same information." He walks toward the door to head through the bridge area, keeping one hand in his gold pouch.

You head to the bridge and as you walk you see the most disturbing lot of people you could ever hope to see. The place is filthy, smelly, and crowded. Everyone has murder in their eye and everyone seems to be armed.

ooc: Roll a search and spot please.

14:57, Today: Prizzard rolled 12 using 1d20-2. Spot.
14:57, Today: Prizzard rolled 14 using 1d20. Search.

He walked through quietly, not trying too hard to avoid anyone, not showing any sign of fear among this mob of likely criminals. He kept his hood low though, because not only bounty hunters would seek what they thought to be quick money.

ooc: Prizzard, you now have two companions in this thread. Enjoy!

Tetsuo: The slums of Halidar are particularly bad this time of year. People are hungrier than ever and therefore more desperate. Still, if one knows what they are doing the slums can be navigated with a fair amount of safety providing they avoid certain places and times of the day. Night is near suicide. Fortunately you have a few hours before you have to worry about that. You find yourself in a tavern that is particularly well liked by the locals and has plenty of gossip. As you sit down at a table you hear some particularly interesting bits from those nearest you. They appear to be talking about people in Halidar acting strangely. According to them, there have been outbreaks of children and animals acting...violently. Uncharacteristically and frighteningly so.....

Schan: You look at the folded piece of parchment that has been stuffed in your pocket for the last several weeks. Once again the mysterious words pique your curiosity. "Schan, come to Halidar. Quickly. My very life depends upon it. Look for me in the slums and I shall find you. Make haste my student." It was signed by your old master who schooled you in the ancient arts of the monk. The fact that he has asked you to leave your home in the uncharted lands and come to the crowded world of Thear leaves you more than bewildered. What was he even doing here? It was true the man had been missing for several months, but few ever left the uncharted lands, for privacy and secrecy was what you all sought to protect the most. Still, you came, for your master's sake. But you couldn't help but feel on edge about the whole situation.

ooc: It'll be good to have companions, as long as they post. It seems Tetsuo hasnt logged on once.

ooc: Yes....you are right....well Schan is good for it at least.

Prizzard: You notice the place that your informant spoke of, and you find it is fairly uninhabited at the moment. You could slip in easily if it weren't for the guardish looking fellow who is leaning by the door, eyeing those around him with suspicion. He sees you and stares coldly as if to say, " You aren't getting in here."

Schan puts the note away and shakes his head at his surroundings. This crowded place was pathetic next to the peace and beauty of the uncharted lands he called his home. Oh well, he wasn't here for the atmosphere, he was here for his master. Best to fill his stomach first though. He heads off to a street vendor and buys some food.

You buy your food and eat it contentedly. It is not the best food you have ever had, but it satisfies. After you've finished you wander about the slums a bit, wondering how your master will find you.

ooc: Roll spot please

Comntinuing to walk straight to the door, he keeps his posture and attitude the same, not really caring about the man by the door. He would enter quietly unless he saw the man move to block his entry, in which case he would speak the name of who he had come to find, in a low, yet noticably irritated tone. This attitude may cause him to seem to belong even without attempting.

01:54, Today: Prizzard rolled 10 using 1d20+3. Bluff.

ooc: 09:58, Today: Schan rolled 18 using 1d20.

Schan looks around, trying to find anyone that could tell him exactly what he was doing here.

Prizzard: As you attempt to pass the door, the man moves to stop you, and although he pauses at the mention of the name you say, he does not move. Look stranger, you may know him or you may not. I don't really care. I only know that I am paid to guard this door, and unless you can pay me more than what they do, I'm not going to budge for you. He sneers.

Schan: Your keen eyes scan the streets around you as you walk somewhat aimlessly through the slums of Halidar. Eventually movement out of the corner of your eye makes you turn your head. You see a figure on a rooftop, barely visible, looking down on you with decided interest. They seem to be wearing all black and their face and head is also covered so that all you see is a bare slit where the eyes are visible. They don't seem to know that you have noticed them yet.

Head still down, his voice elevates slightly, as if with interest. "Are you really that well-paid?" He waits quietly, eyeing the man through a slit in his hood, ready to be attacked.

13:07, Today: Prizzard rolled 13 using 1d20+12. Intimidate.
ooc: I wonder if with a 1 he can even tell I tried to spook him..

Prizzard: The man doesn't seem phased. He gives a shrug. Whether I am or not it doesn't matter. What matters is how generous YOU are. He arches an expectant eyebrow. Or, I could always call for a little help from my companions to deal with a nosy trespasser....

"Be reasonable what you ask of me" He removes his hood to reveal his face. "Men like me are not known for their generosity."

Schan decides to sneak up on the man and find out why he is watching him. He tries to act inconspicuous as he moves to where the man can't see him and then tries to find a way up on the roof.

Schan: You manage to make it up to the roof easily and you find that the man doesn't notice you until you are almost on top of him. Then he draws his Katana and stands to face you. His face is covered so that all you see are his eyes. He holds his ground and speaks. Well, I take it you are looking for your master then young monk. His words sound amused, as though he is mocking you.

Prizzard: The man frowns in thought. Ten. I will let you through for ten. Take it or leave it, although I suggest you take it. He arches an eyebrow. He motions to the doorway with his head as he speaks. I guess it all depends on how badly you want in there, though I don't know why you do frankly. If anyone finds you in there you are a dead man.

In thought: "Like I need the attention. Damn, I'd rather not waste this gold.." "Fine. Ten. Why should I care about being found here anyway?" He hands the man ten gold with his usual cautious procedure and then places his hood back on as before.

Prizzard: The man gives a smug smile and then gestures you through the door with a mocking little bow. Apparently money is more important to these men than loyalty, which is unsurprising in the slums. You find yourself in a small shack with tables, chairs,and cupboards that are barely hanging onto their hinges. You are able to find the trap door without difficulty however, and soon find yourself going down a ladder into the darkness below. When you are finally off the last rung you see that you are in a wide tunnel that is dimly lit by various lanterns scattered here and there on the walls. There is dripping in the background and your shoes are wet from the floor. In the distance you hear voices approaching, echoing as they get nearer. You see several other corridors to your left and right as well as behind you.

After moving one corridor in the direction of the sounds, He stops to listen carefully.

If I have time, i'll take 10 on the Move silently, if not..
12:12, Today: Prizzard rolled 3 using 1d20. Move Silently.
And I should be able to take 20 on listen, or atleast 10 since there is no threat and I know there are noises to hear. If not..
12:15, Today: Prizzard rolled 8 using 1d20-2. Listen.
Draw Scythe, stay back in the shadows.
12:16, Today: Prizzard rolled 7 using 1d20. Hide.

You hear the following from the voices approaching: Well, did you actually see the empress's daughter? If so why in the world are you here with me? You should have taken your chance man! Do you know how much gold that kind of ransom would bring? The empress would give half her kingdom for her safe return! Half! You hear the other person start to defend themselves but by then they have turned the corner and they spot you. Hey! What are you doing here?! One snarls, and draws his short sword.

"I come seeking Koros and Jeannder. My name is Prizzard, known as The Shadow Scythe." I remove my hood. Not to intimidate, but to confirm my identity to them. I draw my scythe, but not assume a combat stance. "I am not looking for a fight, But I will kill any who wish to hinder me." That was the intimidation.

12:27, Today: Prizzard rolled 14 using 1d20+12. Intimidate.

The pair seem duly intimidated, but not terrified. Your name does seem to give them pause though. Why do you seek these men? I cannot give you any information if you have harmful intentions. That is if I can give you any at all. I only know places they tend to be not where they are at any given time.

"Harm, no. Jeannder is a contact of mine and Koros is one whom I have heard may have information I need.. Answers.. It is personal." His scythe swings bihind him onto his back, its resting place. "I would greatly appreciate your assistance. I apologize, but I am getting low on gold. Your door guard is a greedy man."

The man seems satisfied with your answers and puts his sword away. Jeannder is on the north side of town at the moment. It would take a day or so to get to him. Koros, however, is near. I will get his permission and see if he will see you. As for your money, as much as Koros responds to it, he will likely give you your information in return for a favor. Be wary though, he can demand a high price for anything you find valuable. Would you like me to speak to him?

"That would be ideal. Will I travel with you, or wait in the slums? I would prefer not to be idle at this moment."

The man nods at your question. You may travel with me to see him. Be warned though, he will not like you knowing his location so if he decides he doesn't want to help you your life may be in danger. It is up to you.

If you decide to go with him you soon find yourselves traveling through the tunnels for a few miles until you find a staircase that leads up into the basement of a large house. He bids you wait in the tunnel for a few minutes while he speaks with him. After what seems an eternity he returns and leads you up through the hallways of the house until you are led to a room where a dark haired man is waiting. He is a handsome man, though his face has many scars from the harsh life of the slums. The house though, seems to be a fine one. He appears to have done well for himself financially. Koros gestures for you to sit, his eyes studying you intensely, a frown on his face. So this is the famous Prizzard eh? And what information exactly do you want out of me? I trust you have been told it will not come without a price?

He removes his blade and places it by the door before heading to the seat "Yes, I have heard you request favors. The information I seek should be simple for you though." Sitting, he returns a stare to the studying eyes. "I need to find out who killed my tribe. I am from Rashamen, Faerun, and the only survivor I know of from a chain of slaughters along the southern border nine years ago. My survival was surely an accident.. I have been told you know something."

Koros gives a small smile at your words. Yes, you are right that I such information is easy for me to come by. Especially as I know the answer already. However, as I can see it is of great importance to you I am able to ask a good price for it. When I tell you what you want to know, you must swear to me that you will do this task. I have a grave enemy. His name is Loden, and he is the captain of the empress's guard here. Find him and either kill him or bring him to me. My sources say he is leaving the city within the hour, though where I do not know. You should leave soon if you hope to catch him. As for your question, the people who killed your family are known as the followers. They belong to a dark cult who worship evil gods and deities that we haven't even heard of. In return for their sacrifices of innocents, their gods give them great powers and rewards. They are a dangerous group and one that is full of secrecy and darkness. Bring me Loden and I will tell you where to find them. If you do not bring him to me, I will have you killed. Those are your choices man.

Nodding in agreement, he answered as he walked to the door to retrieve his weapon. "If you truly want him alive, Do you have anything I could use? I am not skilled in capture or healing. A potion of Cure Minor Wounds perhaps?"

ooc: How can I kill him if he has already left with a group of adventurers? also, I posted, like.. a while back. feel free to update me anytime, any day.

ooc: If you noticed, he informed you that he was leaving the city so you can start looking for him outside the city. As for my not posting, I was interrupted and didn't get the chance to finish. I didn't forget about you. And yes, I am aware that he left with the adventurers. That is kinda the point.

ic: Koros gives a small smile at your words and then nods. Done. I will give you a few supplies you may find useful. He will be headed north outside of the city, though I'm not sure where his destination is. You will have to track him or find someone who is skilled at tracking. Either way bring him back here. Though if you do end up accidentally killing him I suppose I will get over it.

ooc: Roll search and spot, as well as any intentions you may have before leaving. He also gives you a few cure minor wounds potions.

"I suppose I will have to find a tracker. My truest skill is surviving, not hunting." He accepts the potions, setting them in his gold pouch. After swinging the weapon back in place, he walks partway out the door before questioning. "How long do I have before you consider the job abandoned?"

22:03, Today: Prizzard rolled 14 using 1d20-2. Spot.
22:03, Today: Prizzard rolled 6 using 1d20. Search.

Koros gives a grin. You have one months time and then I will have you killed for failing me. As for a tracker, take Halak. He gives a whistle, and suddenly a boy, no older than 12, emerges from a nearby doorway. He is well kept and clean, which is unusual for children in the slums. No doubt Koros keeps his employees well looked after. He has a grave and silent face, pale and wide eyed but also he possesses the expression of one who has seen far too much at an age too young. He gives Koros a nod and stands by your side. The boy is the best tracker there is. But he's small and young. If anything happens to him you had best kill yourself then for when I catch you it will be worse than death for you. I loan you to him in interest of your task. Keep him safe, get Loden, and return. Now off with you.

ooc: I'm moving you to the hunting chapter now.

"I am no babysitter and I will not be responsible for the life of a child. Allow me to hire one with.. fewer consequences. I'll pay for one myself." With another glance at the boy, he waits for an agreement. If it goes as well, I will hire a tracker. The trackers duties only include tracking, not fighting. I'm keeping this cheap. Once my mark is found, the tracker may leave.

You find that Koros is insistent. Take the boy Prizzard. He is the best and I want this done quickly. He needs no babysitting either and he will be no trouble. He can find his own way home once he points you in the right direction. I have offered you a great resource and would be insulted if you refused. And trust me, it is not a good idea to insult me. If you run into Loden, the man will not harm the boy. It is not his way. Just have him get you started and then he will return to me himself. Understood?

"Fine. This should not take too long." He leaves, making his way quickly and carefully to the nearest city exit before heading to the main gate Loden should have left from.