Group 2= Ravaella, Orrik, Finbarri, Stefan Aruello, Amadeus

Everyone: The market place of Halidar is famed throughout the land. Because this kingdom is such a melting pot and center of society it is the best place to barter, trade, and sell one's goods. Even many of the sand people of Dajhiris travel here to get the best prices for their exotic wares. Although the city has much to explore and to offer, this is the place that most catches your eye. It has been said that a person can find anything here, whether it be items of magic, ancient texts, or simply information....

ooc: Note, none of you know each other as yet. I will let you know when you become aware of each other. Go ahead and explore the marketplace if you wish. If you wish to go someplace else that is fine too. This is just a good place to start you out.

Also, Orrik, I am not starting you quite yet until I find out a couple of things for your character. You should be ready as soon as that is done.

Fin takes his time wandering from stall to stall glancing over each seller's wares making mental notes of each vender. He is also scanning the market for anyone who might stand out as a potential mark.

Stefan wanders through the market, his eyes perusing the wares that have come from around the world to this place.  He stands out for his gaunt frame and desert garb, his face showing as he has unwrapped it, the edges of his tribal tattoos visible at the left base of his neck.  He keeps his eyes wary, but he walks with the air of those with little money, seeming unguarded as his ragged appearance was a better protection from cutpurses then any amount of vigilance.

Ravaella is walking around the market, looking for any magical items of interest. she stands out as she is wearing a full suit of plate mail with the holy symbol of
Duodinemmen emblazoned across the chestplate. She has her shield strapped across her back and her morningstar hangs at her waist.

ooc: If anyone wants to buy anything remember how much gold you have and make sure you choose an item from the Dungeon master's guide so I can look it up. Also make sure you can afford it! If you want an item from a different book that is fine, but please send me a description of the item as well as its price. Thanks!


Finbarri: You find that there are so many different vendors that it makes your head spin. You select the large section of vendors that seems to have the most expensive and valuable items and find that there are magic items, expensive jewelry fit for nobles (many of which you see shopping there), potions, fine clothes and shoes, weapons, extremely well crafted traveling gear, and above all various magic items, texts, books, scrolls, and so on. As for people who are potential marks, you see that many of the nobles are traveling with body guards who stand a vigilant watch as their masters select their purchases. You do see one noblewoman, however, looking over a large stack of books with her back turned. Her money purse dangles temptingly and there is no one else near her.

Stefan: You find that your attire and appearance do protect you from pickpockets, however the noble class seems to be quite wary of you. Most of them seem to be traveling with body guards who give you a disapproving look of warning, as if making sure you don't come too close to their employers. You do see several fellow countrymen, however, who have come far to trade here. They notice you with interest for the Dajhiri do not often come so far unless there is a good reason.

Ravaella: You find all sorts of magical items. Everything from weapons to scrolls and texts, to magic jewelery and other such wares. In fact, the market place seems to be be even bigger and busier than when you last remember it, leading you to believe that business must be good. Unfortunately, this seems to also affect the prices as much of the wares you find are extremely expensive, though you do know that haggling has its place here. As you are looking around, you see a small boy looking at you with a frown, as if trying to determine something about you. He looks ragged and dirty and no more than five.

I approach the little boy slowly, as I get closer I say "What is the matter? You seem at odds with me somehow?"
This message was last edited by the player at 01:14, Thu 04 Feb 2010.

Fin decides to try a tactic he hasn't used before and walks up beside the noble woman and leans over to look at the books she is looking at and calmly whispers to the lady "My sincere apologies M'lady but I felt it my duty and obligation to inform you that your coin purse it all too visible and could make you an easy mark for pick pockets and other vagabonds... Might I suggest that if you are going to be carrying such valuables around that you should do so discretely" At this point Fin looks at the lady with a serious face but calm expression to see how she reacts.
This message was last edited by the player at 07:32, Tue 02 Feb 2010.

Ravaella: The boy's eyes widen as you approach him. He looks bewildered and confused. You saw me?! He exclaims in surprise. Um...I was just looking around. I don't want anything from you.... His lie is none too convincing.

Finbarri: The woman looks at you in surprise and you see she is young. No more than 18 and she is very beautiful with light blond hair and gray eyes. With coloring like that it is most likely she is a purebred Halidarian, not someone who has moved here from someone else. Her clothes are very finely made and expertly stitched. This woman is worth some money, though she seems a bit surprised at the thought of thieves and she goes pale at your words. Oh yes of course, how stupid of me! She blushes, shoving the pouch into a pocket, which isn't much better than where it was before. Thank you for warning me! Others might have tried to steal it instead of helping me. Thank you! Might I ask your name?

Smiling as he shakes his head at her unsuccessful try to hide the pouch " my name is Finbarri Tenderfoot, but you can call me Fin." Pointing to where her pouch is now positioned he continues with a little bit of a chuckle "that's not much better than where you had it before... I would suggest putting it inside your clothes, like this" He demonstrates for her with his own pouch so that she gets a general idea of how to hide her money. "and what may I ask if your name?" he asks with a slight bow.

Stefan continues to look around for anything of interest, disdaining the nobles just as much as they disdain them.

After waking up with a pounding headache, Amadeus slowly makes his way to the marketplace. The gods would see that the sun would be shining brightly this morning. Scrolls and inks. The sun already was baking the streets and him with it. How he have felt so wonderful last night and feel so horrible this morning?
It could have been the chicken special he ate yesterday for dinner. Yes, that probably was it. Chicken. An ale and a good smoke would certainly help make things better. It worked last night...

Amadeus reached down and checked his belt pouch. Pipeweed. Scrolls and inks. Best to get the pipeweed first. The scrolls and inks could wait.
This message was last edited by the player at 01:11, Thu 04 Feb 2010.

"Look Kid, I'm not in the habit of threatening children but I can make an exeption. What are you hiding?"


OOC:
01:11, Today: Ravaella Swordhand rolled 11 using 1d20+2. Intimidate Check.
Also changed to green because you are using blue.

Finbarri: The woman blushes again and puts her coins in her dress as you suggested. When you ask her name she hesitates, as if flustered and then says quickly, My name is Tanda. She smiles widely as if to make up for her flustering and then shakes her head. I guess its pretty obvious that this is my first time in a marketplace. She grins sheepishly.

Stefan: As you are wandering about, you feel a gentle tap on your shoulder. You turn to see it is a fellow Dajhirian. A woman in fact, with pitch black hair and dark tan skin. She wears the tattoo of a tribe that resides on the outskirts of your homeland. She is a bit plain looking, though her long silky hair is the most beautiful you've seen. Excuse me my fellow countryman, but you look a bit...lost. Are you here with a trading caravan?

Amadeus: You find the marketplace irritatingly crowded today, not that it isn't always crowded of course, but today it seems worse than usual. Best to hold on to your money pouch tightly. You find your pipeweed easily and it is fortunately on sale today. As you are headed towards the vendors who specialize in scrolls you see a pair of royal guards talking animatedly and pointing to a document one of them is holding. ooc: Roll listen please.

Ravaella: The boy hears your words and his eyes widen in fear and surprise. It would seem that he didn't think of you as the kind of woman who would threaten him. He speaks quickly, his words running together in his haste to get them out. Please miss, it's not my fault! Hucket told me to take your money pouch and I was just trying to figure out where it was! I'm not hiding anything! Honest!! Despite his confession to planning on robbing you, he still has an innocent face and you realize that he doesn't quite understand what he was told to do or the fact that it was wrong. Not surprising for someone his age.

Stefan looks admiringly at her hair, and then meets her gaze steadily as he responds. "I would not say I am lost exactly, though I do not know where it is that I am going.  I am also not with any of these travelers, I came here alone, to see If any of the magics that they have here could benefit our people."  He allowed a small smile to pass over his face, but his eyes maintained the same hard cast that those who have survived alone for long periods of time take.  "Did you come with the caravans, for it is rare to see a merchant as beautiful as you."

OOC
21:50, Today: Amadeus rolled 5 using 1d20+4. listen.
Amadeus has successfully managed to block out the noise of the crowd. Yes. A 1.

Fin smiles at the young woman's embarasment "Well then Lady Tanda, it would appear that you could use some one to help guide you through the vast stalls of this market... and alas I am willing to give you my service" He bows slightly again "and all I ask in return if favorable conversation" Regaining his composure he finishes "and with my help you'll have your shopping done in no time at all"

"Take my money pouch? What makes me look like an enticing target, the morningstar? anyway I suggest you don't listen to this Hucket any more because the next person you come across might not be so merciful."
This message was last edited by the player at 23:38, Sat 06 Feb 2010.

Stefan: She blushes at your compliment and hides a smile. Yes, I did come with the caravans. I've been here for two weeks now and we are nearly done with our trading. If it is magic knowledge you seek, you have come to the right place. The very marketplace where we stand has many ancient tomes that are for sale. If you wish a cheaper option, however, you may go to the great library. You have to leave the texts there, but they do provide parchment for copying if you wish. You will never find a place with more information on anything you seek. In fact, it has been said that even the librarians don't know where everything is and that some of the books date back thousands of years. If you ever desire to look at this library, I will be happy to take you there.

Amadeus: You are unable to hear what the guard's are saying as a nearby group of people are being particularly loud in their haggling. Frustrated, you watch the guards closely and find that they duck inside a small shop, disappearing from sight.

Finbarri: Tanda looks at you with surprise and delight. Well thank you so much! I must admit I was feeling a bit overwhelmed. I will buy you an item for your time if you wish. After all, one does not often come across a stranger so helpful! You can't help but smile as she is truly one of the most innocent and naive people you have ever met.

Ravaella: The boy shrugs in confusion at your words, still scared. I didn't choose to take your money pouch. Hucket told me to! He said you were just a dumb woman who wouldn't know how to hold your weapons and that they are just for show. He said you were the perfect target because women are slow and never notice anything. He quotes the man in perfect tone, as though he's used to the man saying such things about women. He doesn't appear to think this way himself, but he is rather relaying what was told to him.

Orrik: It has been so very long since you have seen the streets of Halidar. Taldek wouldn't even let you look out of the window of his high tower for fear of someone seeing you. Now you are free after so many years of incarceration. It feels wonderful, exhilarating, and terrifying. A lot has changed since you last walked the streets of this great nation city. It has grown immensely. There are so many towers and buildings that the city seems ready to burst from so much architecture crammed together. The huge throngs of people only make it worse and though it is nice to be free, it is a bit stressful to be amongst so many others. However, perhaps this will work for your advantage. After all, it is easier to blend in with a large crowd, even looking as you do. You move as quickly as you can, away from Taldek's tower, hardly knowing where you are going until you find yourself in a crowded marketplace. Most people are too busy to notice you, but some look at you with surprise and astonishment. You are a strange sight indeed in Halidar.

  Home, sweet home. Orrik thought as he plodded through the crowds.  A large wrap of tattered red fabric was used to enshroud his armored body like a cloak, perhaps giving the guise of an armored warrior from afar.  Orrik was so much more than that now though.  Keeping the hood of his make-shift cloak low over his features, he moved as gracefully as a bull through the throngs of people.

  Reaching the market, Orrik regarded it somewhat unenthusiastically.  I remember the smells of the market, the food, the people, the animals.  But now... He shook the thought from his head.  The massive construct continued on, turning away from eyes that stared too long, trying to avoid drawing even more attention.  An entire nation as one giant city, and he was trying lay low.
This message was last edited by the player at 22:25, Tue 09 Feb 2010.

Amadeus's curiousity got the better of him and taking notice of the name of the shop walked on inside the dimly lit shop.

Fin continues to smile at the charismatic young woman "I do believe that is more than gracious of you M'Lady... However I am not such a fool as to refuse a gift..." Fin leans over and offers her his arm "so I am happy to accept your offer" He waits briefly to see if she actually takes his arms before asking "Sooo miss Tanda what is it we are looking for first?"

"I would quite like to meet this Hucket, if you take me to him I will give you a gold piece to spend on whatever you like."

"Then lead on, for I would greatly desire a guide such as you."

Orrik: You are amazed at the diversity of the people around you. It has always been diverse of course, but the absolute range and variation of people is still astounding. Only in Halidar would you find so many kinds of people. Perhaps you will be less noticed here after all. ooc: Please roll a spot check Orrik.

Amadeus: The shop's name is "The Librarian's Secret." It is a shop of particularly old and rare books. Very expensive and well watched by the owners. As you step in the musty smell of aged paper tickles your nose. You wonder how people could stand to stay here more than a few minutes with such a smell. The guards are in plain sight. They are leaning over a counter and speaking with the owner in low tones, showing him what appears to be a sketch of someone...ooc: Please roll a spot and listen Ammie :D

Finbarri: Tanda grins, happy to have such a pleasant companion. Well, I need to buy supplies so I can leave Halidar, and I also wanted to buy a few magic books so I can learn some new spells. Do you know where I can find either of those? I don't really know my way around you see.

Ravaella: The boy's eyes light up as if you had just offered him a kingdom of his own. A GOLD PIECE?!!! He exclaims, doing a little jump of joy. I could buy food with that!!! And indeed it would appear that this boy needed food badly. He was so thin he looked almost skeletal and he was very dirty and worn looking. In spite of all this, he possessed an excited energy that was impressive for one so down and out. He grabs your hand and proceeds to yank you down through an ally and then stops suddenly, looking at you suspiciously. Wait a second...let me see the gold piece first. He demands.

Stefan: She blushes again, clearly not used to the attention, and proceeds to lead you through the endless streets of Halidar. It takes you over an hour to make it to the library and she mentions it is lucky that you were so close already or it could have taken an entire day. The library is a magnificent stone structure that is nearly the size of the palace itself. It is clear these people value their knowledge and you can tell that she was not exaggerating when she described its size. As she leads you inside you find several guards who are taking the weapons of those entering. She leans over and explains, They cannot risk anything happening to the books. If a fight broke out here, the weapons could prove very detrimental. It is a smart policy. Don't worry, you'll receive your weapons when you leave again. She informs you as she removes her sword belt and hands it to a guard.

  It was becoming too much for Orrik.  So many years in that room was nothing compared to how closed in he felt now when surrounded by so many unfamiliar faces.  The golems's armored head pivoted somewhat frantically in a search for a means out of the crowd.  A place of quiet where he could adjust to this sudden change in environment.  Without thinking, he was set into motion for less densely packed portions of the crowd, not realizing when people were forced aside when he walked into them.

OOC:  Spot- 10

Fin smilesat Tanda "supplies will be harder to find based on what you need for your trip... as for the books... well that's easy, I was looking at magical books earlier." He takes her to some of the vendors he was looking at earlier

Stefan nods as he hands over his quarterstaff, and then precedes into the immense structure.

19:50, Today: Amadeus rolled 24 using 1d20+4. listen.
19:49, Today: Amadeus rolled 24 using 1d20+4. spot.

OOC I choose to disbelieve that I just rolled 2 20s in a row

"Yes you could buy quite a lot of food for one gold piece... its nearly two weeks wages for most adults, I'll tell you what I will give you two one now and one after we meet Hucket."

I hand him one gold piece, carefully making sure that he doesn't see where my money is hidden.

Bluff to keep my money hidden:
11:15, Today: Ravaella Swordhand rolled 15 using 1d20+2.

Orrik: As you push through the crowd you notice a figure standing to the right a ways down the street. They seem to be staring at you intently, a look of unreadable concentration on their face. From the distance you are at and the hood they wear it is impossible to tell if they are a man or a woman, but they are following your every movement with their eyes.

Finbarri: She seems delighted and makes several purchases. You realize that she makes most of her purchases with platinum pieces and she does not care about price. This woman is wealthy. After finishing with her texts, she informs you to just let her know when you find something you want to buy. In the meantime, she is ready to look at supplies, which will include a horse and cart if she has anything to say about it. As she goes about her purchases you notice she often keeps her head low and covers her hair with a shawl. She also seems a bit on edge.

Stefan: It takes you a half hour to find the section of magic and sorcery. It is full of studying wizards and sorcerers, all copying down various spells and incantations. Despite the crowd, there are still plenty of tomes to go around. You doubt there would ever be a shortage.

Amadeus: As you pretend to be looking at merchandise you can see clearly the parchment they are holding. It has a detailed sketch of a young woman, who appears to be a native of Halidar judging by her features and coloring. The guard speaks emphatically to the store owner, as if in desperation. ooc: rest is in pm...


Ravaella: He doesn't appear to notice where your money is but his eyes go wide at the prospect of two gold pieces. Ok lady! Ok! I'll show you where he is! He's waiting for me to bring your money pouch. Come on! He then yanks you down the ally once more, through twists and turns and up streets you didn't even know existed. This place could be a maze when it wanted to. He finally stops at a very run down brick building with holes in the wall and crumbling architecture. He points to a door. He's in there! Should I go in with you?

OOC Bluff check 20

Amadeus: The guard gives you a suspicious look but after a moment he seems content that you hadn't heard what he said and turns away. From the way he threatened the shopkeeper it was a good thing indeed that he didn't suspect you had heard him. Still, this was interesting information indeed. It would appear that the guards were looking for their quarry as covertly as possible, which in the end might make it all the more difficult for them.

Well at least they aren't looking for me.Amadeus noses around the shop for a couple of minutes and then will head back out into the streets.

"No you wait here, here is your other gold piece. Dont go flashing it around or someone will take it from you."

"What's wrong Tanda?" Fin whispers to the lady as they walk between vendors "you seem a bit... preoccupied" as they continue to shop he keeps an eye out for the horse and cart she wants "it's not my place to say, but it looks as if you are running away from something." Fin reaches out and touches her arm softly "if there is something I can do for you, tell me"

Amadeus: As you head back to the streets you continue on your search for your supplies, the guard's words still ringing in your head. You can't help but wonder if there is a reward for helping them with their troubles. You find yourself in the thick of the marketplace, the bustle only getting busier. Still, you cannot help the feeling that you are being watched. It is likely you are after all, due to the fact that there are so many people around you, but this is a different kind of feeling. It makes the hair on the back of your neck stand up and you can't help but feel jumpy....ooc: Roll spot please

Ravaella: The boy nods emphatically, his eyes wide as if the thought never occurred to him before. He hides it in his shoe, looking around to make sure no one sees. Be careful lady! Hucket can be real mean when he's angry!


Finbarri: Tanda looks at you with wide gray eyes. She hesitates as if wondering to trust you. Then with a sad smile she begins to explain. Well, its just that I've never been away from Halidar before and I don't know where I'm going. My parents keep me locked away. They say it is too dangerous for me to leave our home and so I am trapped there constantly, never to live my life until they find a husband who will take care of me. That is not the life for me! She says vehemently. And so I am running away. The only problem is, I don't quite know how! She gives a helpless shrug.

Spell Casting:
Divine Metamagic Extend (2 uses): Magic Vestments on Shield (Lasts 10 hours)+2 Enchantment
Divine Metamagic Extend (2 uses): Magic Vestments on Armor  (Lasts 10 hours)+2 Enchantment
Invisibility (Lasts 5 Minutes)

18:46, Today: Ravaella Swordhand rolled 3 using 1d20-9. Move Silently.

I enter the building as quietly as possible... I am however wearing plate-mail.

OOC
20:15, Today: Amadeus rolled 23 using 1d20+4. spot.

Felling sad for the young woman, Fin smiles "Well then, I guess that I will have to stick around to keep you out of trouble" he winks at her playfully "besides I myself am not from around here, so I have no problems assisting you". Fin glances around the market to see what other things are happening around. "Might wanna look for some more people though if you do consider travelling outside the safety of the city.... for there are perils out there that could kill a lone person but are no problem for a group of people"

  Orrik pressed onward for a moment, his steps slowing though as he continued down the road.  It wasn't until he stood just across the street from the person watching him that he stopped, and slowly turned to face them.  Without comment or provocation, he approached, his emotionless, metal features staring coldly as he investigated who he so clearly held the attention of.

Ravaella: As you enter the building you find yourself in a narrow hallway that has various rooms leading into places unknown. You slip in and close the door behind you, trying to be as quiet as possible but without much success. As you walk down the corridor you see a doorway at the end of the hallway open and two teenage boys approach your direction. One of them turns to the other and says, Did you hear that? I swear I heard something. The other frowns suspiciously but says nothing. Instead they begin checking rooms, opening the doors and quickly looking in. After finding nothing in the rooms one of them checks the door you entered from the street. Well if there is someone here they aren't getting out. The first boy mutters as he takes out a key and locks your exit from the inside.

Amadeus: You see two things of interest as you look about the crowd. First, you see the young woman that the guards were discussing across the marketplace. She is about 30 yards away, speaking to a halfling and looking about her a bit nervously. The other thing you notice is a small girl off to your right. She is very pale and has dark circles under her eyes. She looks to be about 6 years old and she has blond hair and wears ragged clothing. By all accounts she should be just another ragged street urchin, but there is something different about this one. She looks at you with a strange smile and a haunting expression. It brings a chill down your spine as you realize what her expression is. Hunger.

Finbarri: The woman nods at your suggestion as if the idea never occurred to her. She is not so much foolish as she is naive. Thank you so much for your offer of help! I assure you that I will pay you well for your troubles. As for getting others help, that is an excellent idea! But, who do I find here that I can trust?

Orrik: As you get closer you discover that the figure is a man. He is in his mid thirties and very gaunt and scarred. He has the bearing of a man who knows how to handle himself well in a fight and clearly he has been in many of them. Ah Orrik. So they finally let you out did they? Or did you finally figure out a way to escape?

PM

I sneak up behind the nearest one and hit him with my morningstar for non leathal damage (-4 to attack roll)

13:45, Today: Ravaella Swordhand rolled -8 using 1d20-9. Sneak.
13:45, Today: Ravaella Swordhand rolled 3 using 1d20+1.  To hit
13:47, Today: Ravaella Swordhand rolled 1 using 1d20-1. Initiative.

Wow that roller hates me.. and im not invisible anymore.

AC 23, 50HP
This message was last edited by the player at 14:04, Mon 22 Feb 2010.

Amadeus: You start to tail the young woman you see across the way but suddenly you feel someone grab you from behind. A very painful sensation pierces deep into your leg and you look down in surprise to see the strange little girl you saw a moment ago clutching your leg tightly and biting into it. It is not the bite of a normal child being a brat, but rather you are horrified to realize that she is attempting to actually bite off a chunk of your flesh....

Alexia: You do a horrible job with your stealth and as you attempt to attack the first one, he hears you and easily moves out of your way. Drawing his short sword alarmingly fast, he attempts to return the blow but seems so surprised at your sudden appearance that he does a poor job. Meanwhile his companion seems to be slower and clumsily fumbles with his own weapon.

ooc: Your turn again! :D

Amadeus grits his teeth and tries to kick the girl off his leg.

I assume you mean me?

I try to hit the same guy for lethal damage this time

13:37, Today: Ravaella Swordhand rolled 21 using 1d20+5. Attack roll.
13:38, Today: Ravaella Swordhand rolled 9 using 1d8+1. Damage Roll.

  Orrik stared at the man's features, scrutinizing them for familiarity and finding none.  Within the folds of his cloak, steel hand found hilt and the smaller blade was drawn from his hip.  "How do you know me?" Orrik demanded in his harsh, imitation of a voice.

Amadeus: ooc: Roll an opposing strength check please....

The girl holds tightly, gnawing at your flesh in an attempt to rip it from your limb.

Ravaella: ooc: Oops! I apologize for that!

You hit the man squarely this time, dealing a strong blow to the side of his chest. He looks alarmed at the strength of the blow and seems to wonder what he has gotten himself into. Meanwhile his friend and he are both attacking you now. The one you hit gets you in the arm but his companion misses entirely.

ooc: five damage

Orrik: He laughs at your question. Oh I've never met you personally my friend. But I have been sent to destroy you. You are lucky that I'm not actually interested in such things. Come now, let us find a more private place to talk....

OOC natural 20 on str check

  Orrik looked hesitant, as much as a golem was able. "Not exactly trust inspiring.  Why should I believe you?" He asked, unsure what to make of this strange assassin.  Was it Orrik they wanted dead, or what he had become?  His grip remained sure on the blade's handle behind his cloak. It was real, it could be trusted.  So much was different now...

Sense Motive: 10

I attempt to hit the same target.

18:28, Today: Ravaella Swordhand rolled 12 using 1d20+5. To hit.
18:30, Today: Ravaella Swordhand rolled 2 using 1d8+1. damage.

ooc: managed to roll my attack twice by accident. ignore the 19 in the log :(

Amadeus: You throw her to the ground easily and she lands hard, though doesn't seem to notice. She gets up quickly and wears a wide wild grin, revealing her mouth that is messy with your blood. She gives a chilling laugh, begins to approach you again to attack, and then suddenly stops short. Her expression changes, the wildness goes out of her eyes, and then she suddenly is nothing but a confused little girl. She wears an expression of surprise at her surroundings and she wipes at her mouth with her hand. When she sees the blood she begins to scream in horror. The noise is beginning to attract attention.

Orrik: You can't sense much, but you do sense that he knows a great deal about you. His demeanor is dry, but not threatening that you can tell. He laughs at the question. You have no reason to trust me right now. After all, there are few things more dangerous than a stranger in Halidar. But perhaps you will come to understand more when I explain why I was sent to kill you. Now are you coming or not?

Ravaella: You miss, but fortunately so do your opponents. By now they are starting to call for help, and you can hear footsteps rapidly approaching....

"Shut up. Next time I'll kick your teeth down your throat girl." Amadeus glances down at his leg to see how badly he is bleeding.

I take a 5' step backwards and cast Bull's Strength (DMM Extend) will last 10 minutes.

  No.  It is what all of Orrik's senses had been shouting, and yet still he sheathed his secretly drawn blade. "Alright." he replied, his stance and posture returning to a more neutral condition. "Where are we going?"

Amadeus: The girl is quieted by your threats but still looks upset as she runs away. As you turn back the couple you were watching has vanished from sight. Your leg is bleeding badly and as you examine it you realize that she bit into you alarmingly deep. It is unsettling how close she actually came to taking off a mouthful of your flesh. Halidar was certainly an unusual place, but cannibalistic little girls were still a new one. As you are looking about you, you see a street vendor wave you over and offer you a cloth to press into your wound. It is a young pretty woman. She looks a bit devastated by what she obviously just saw happen. Are you alright? Did you know that little girl? Her voice shakes as she assists you.

Ravaella: As you are casting your spell, one of the men slashes you in the leg and the door bursts open. You find yourself now facing six men, all drawing their weapons. One appears to be in charge and is also moving forward.

ooc: 4 damage

Orrik: Someplace quiet. He replies flatly. And with a jerk of his head for you to follow, he starts walking. He doesn't look back to see if you are coming, but instead he heads off at a rapid pace down the streets of the market place. It's a bit difficult to keep up with him, but you manage somehow. At long last he leads you to a small shop that sells various herbs and remedies. He leads you into the back room and gestures towards a bench. Well Orrik. What do you know of what has happened to you? Did the good mage who did this to you ever explain himself or are you unaware of the depth of the situation you are in?

Ravaella's eyes dart around the room looking for potential escape routes and she drops into a defensive stance.

OOC:
Total defense action +4 AC takes my ac to 27

What are the sources of light in the room?
Concentration check to avoid losing the spell due to damage(DC 14)
05:57, Today: Ravaella Swordhand rolled 27 using 1d20+10. Concentration check

"I suppose I am well enough. Most of my leg is in one piece. And no I dont believe I know that girl. Or you for that matter."

Ravaella: ooc: The light sources are a series of lanterns that are mounted on the walls.

You manage to dodge, duck, and weave in and out of attempted blows with impressive dexterity. Still, it is all you can do to keep from being struck. As they attempt to subdue you, the leader calls out to you. Halt and you shall not be killed! Only, tell me why you are attempting to infiltrate my home. He seems to be curious about you more than upset.

Amadeus: She blushes and extends a handshake. I am Rhesa. I sell trinkets as you can see. Unfortunately it seems something very evil is happening in Halidar. You are not the only one who has had such an attack. There are reports throughout the city of people here and there being attacked by children and what were normally peaceful animals. Its as if they go mad temporarily and then snap out of it when they are interrupted. She shakes her head. I wish I knew why this was happening! Halidar is a dangerous enough place as it is without this madness going on.

  Orrik took in the details of the shop as they passed through it but had been thankful when they arrived in the solitude of the back room.  After so many years of enclosed space, being outside has been a but overwhelming.  Orrik drew back his hood, comfortable with the privacy now possessed.  He took no interest in sitting despite man's gestures.

  "Eternity in a prison of my own design." He replied in his solemn, harsh voice. "Something had gone wrong during the ritual. We...I never found out what happened.  There was fire, it felt like everything burned. Down through to my soul and then...nothing."  Orrik's armored fingers twitched uncomfortably.  The loss of senses had only really bothered him in later years when he thought about their absence.  The taste of a warm meal, the smell of a spring day, the caress of a lover...

  Orrik shifted his weight uncomfortably once more before drawing the massive sword from his back and sitting on the bench, the great blade laid bare across his lap.  "What do you know?" He demanded coldly.
This message was last edited by the player at 21:33, Sun 22 Jan 2012.

"Are you Hucket? I'm looking for the one who was impertinent enough to send a street urchin to attempt to rob me."

Ravaella continues with her total defence, dodjing and blocking blows as they come.

Amadeus shakes the girl's hand. "I'm Amadeus. Well I suppose I should feel better seeing as I'm not the only one this has happened to. It is odd. Has anyone any ideas on what may be causing the children and animals to act crazy?" Amadeus begins bandaging his leg as he talks to the girl.

Orrik: The man listens mutely, and shakes his head ruefully at your question. Well I can tell you two things my friend that you apparently do not realize. First of all, you are not the only person that such an experiment has been tried upon,though thus far you are the only successful one. Something did go wrong during your experiment, or rather I should say something accidental happened. Truthfully, it was just what the mages had been hoping for. The problem is that they could not recreate it. That is why they have been studying you and keeping you imprisoned. To learn how to do it again. You see my friend, your current state was no accident, despite what they told you. They very much did what they did to you on purpose. You are their greatest creation. And now that you have escaped,they cannot have people finding out about what they are really doing to their test subjects. He trails off meanfully.

Ravaella: The man's eyebrows go up in surprise at your words and he laughs. Ah! So that is what this is about! Hold! He directs his guards and they cease. No, I am not Huckett. It looks like the man finally picked a victim that he couldn't handle, though truthfully I am surprised that he sent the boy after you. You don't appear to be helpless. I wouldn't be surprised if the lad got confused... He shakes his head and smiles. Well, how clever of you to find us. I suppose you would like a chance to face the mastermind behind your attack? Well I wouldn't suggest it. Huckett may be a fool sometimes, but he is a dangerous fool. Best to run along now miss, before you get hurt. He arches an amused eyebrow.

Amadeus: The woman shakes her head at your question. No one knows, truly. It would seem that the mages of the city have been studying it intensely and still have no luck about it. At first they thought it was necromancy or some other dark magic, but even that theory has provided no answers. It is as if they are possessed by something terrible. It is only a matter of time until someone dies. And when that happens I have no idea what they will do to the killer. People are leaving the city every day in fear of their own children.

"Interesting. To say the least." Amadeus tightens the bandage on his leg. "I suppose not all questions are to be answered by magic, Arcane or Divine. And what have the priests to say? Certainly they are involved in the unraveling of this riddle as well?"

Amadeus: The woman shrugs at your question. They get few answers unfortunately. It is almost as though the Gods are keeping silent on this matter completely. I do not know why that would be, though some priests think that it is because they cannot help us and so give us no aid even in answering our questions. A very bleak outlook indeed, and one that I hope is not right. There are some who claim this is not the first time this has happened and that it marks the coming of something dark and evil. As much as I wish that were not true, I can't help but believe it now.

"Fine I will take my leave but I'm going to need to have words with Hucket soon enough"

"Perhaps even gods have their limits."

Ravaella: The man frowns at your words and shakes his head. Look miss, I understand your irritation. But I suggest you avoid Huckett. He may be a fool and he may be a poor planner, but he can be very dangerous. Especially for someone like you who is just capable enough to get yourself into trouble. Cut your losses now and stay away from this place. I may be a thief but I'm also a decent man and decent men don't let young damsels get in over their heads. He seems quite firm in his statements, and you are surprised that he would go through such efforts for you, but you get the impression that he has a soft spot for women and is perhaps not as corrupt as his fellows.

Amadeus: The woman frowns at your words, not liking the idea. I hear though that there is a secret group that is trying to stop all of this madness. I don't know if it is rumor or the truth, but they say that they have been tracking these incidents for years. If that were true then this is not the first time such things have happened. They may even know why this all is happening. If that is so I wish they would come forward and help us!

"Interesting indeed, that potentially this has happened before. Or so rumors suggest." Amadeus scratches at the stubble on his chin now that he is satisfied with his leg being bandaged. "Where is the closest temple? I suppose one of the priests might be able to attend to my leg before I grow a third leg and my hair falls out."

Amadeus: She gives a small smile at your joke and directs you to the north end of town. Fortunately for you it only takes roughly an hour to get there as some locations at the end of the city could take all day to get to on foot. You find yourself at the temple Isian, the mother goddess. Priests and monks walk the courtyards, chanting their prayers and sitting in meditation. The place is open to all who worship, but for those with questions there is the hall of priests who allow visitors to gain knowledge through their answers. You also notice that this place seems to have many visitors, no doubt worrying about the troubling events of late.

Amadeus limps up to the nearest priest not in meditation or prayer and asks if healing would be needed for his leg.

The priest proceeds to heal you, though he informs you that the wound is not bad. When finished, he gives you a curious look. Where did you get this?

"Lead me out then if you would and I will contain my wrath for now."

"A child bit me. Over by the markets."

Ravaella: He gives an approving nod and proceeds to lead you out. I am Jodar by the way. It was pleasant to meet such a lovely young woman but I just wish it had been under different circumstances. If I were you I would watch my purse and stay away from the market place for a while. To be honest, there are some dangerous things that Huckett is planning and it wouldn't do to have you in the midst of them. He says warningly.

Amadeus: The priest arches a surprised eyebrow. I see. So the taint has gotten worse then has it? He shakes his head. It is only a matter of time before an innocent kills. We cannot stop that for long. Then the true trouble begins. He mutters to himself, so quietly you can barely hear. It is fairly obvious he didn't mean for you to hear it but he seems a bit distracted by your words and so hasn't noticed his slip. Be wary from now on young man. Halidar is becoming an even more dangerous place and if you are able to, you would be wise to leave it while you can.

"What do you mean the true trouble begins?"

Amadeus: He looks a bit startled that you overheard him and he shakes his head. There are theories about what is causing this. No one has any answers but they have ideas. I believe that this is a dark force at work. This is not the first time these kinds of things have happened. There is talk of strangers with no souls who invade and destroy wherever they touch. There is even talk of them coming towards us now. In theory, this is why the children and animals are becoming tainted. It is an affect of the nearness of these strangers. The closer they get the worse the attacks become. If this is true, it would seem that they will be on us soon. That is if this theory has any accuracy. No one has many facts on such rumors. But it makes me wary. As I said before, you would do best to leave now. Legend states that when an innocent kills, it draws these strangers to the area even more so and is like a beacon to them to swarm. I do not know why or even if it is true. I don't even know why I tell you this, but it would be best to keep it to yourself so as not to cause a panic.

"And where did you find information to come about this theory?"

It did not come easily, I assure you. We have been digging through ancient texts and histories, piecing together different accounts from documents across these lands. Every culture and nation has some kind of history about these things. It took a lot of work to put the pieces together, but we think we have as much as is possible at this point. If our information is correct, it is a very bad idea to stay right now. I stay because it is my duty to help during chaos, but if you care for your life stranger, you may be wise to avoid this place.

"Well obviously whatever this is must have ended otherwise the world as we know it would be overrun with this disease. What did the ancient texts reveal about how to end it?" Amadeus asks interestedly, his curiosity now peaked. Ancient texts sounded interesting, especially those that could further his knowledge of the arcane, or even magic in general.

The priest shrugs helplessly. All I know is that it says the gods smote the evil ones until they fled beneath the lands to regain their strength for the day of chaos. He shakes his head. I have to say, I don't really find much solace in those words. I have heard though, that there is a secret organization that has been preparing for this day for centuries. Whether it is true or not though, I am unsure.

"I suppose that is good news. Perhaps if one were to find this group he could learn more about this, assuming this group even exists."

ooc: I'm not sure if you saw this yet Ravaella. Wasn't sure if you wanted to comment on it or not in the game, but it's been up here for a while. If you did answer and I missed it then I apologize.

Ravaella: He gives an approving nod and proceeds to lead you out. I am Jodar by the way. It was pleasant to meet such a lovely young woman but I just wish it had been under different circumstances. If I were you I would watch my purse and stay away from the market place for a while. To be honest, there are some dangerous things that Huckett is planning and it wouldn't do to have you in the midst of them. He says warningly.

"I thank you for your consideration. Chivalry is hard to come across these days, though if you were to see a small boy under the employ of Hucket would you keep an eye out for him."

Amadeus: He gives a grave nod. I have tried to find them many times but I don't have the time to dig as deeply as I would like. I have received a few leads, but never was able to look thoroughly enough to tell if they were accurate. He shakes his head. Perhaps if I were not hindered by my duties here I could do more. He gives you a thoughtful look. I don't know if you're interested, but I do have a few places you could check if you were interested.I was never able to examine them, though I don't know if there is any merit to these rumors either way.

Ravaella: Jodar gives a pleased smile at your words and nods in reply to your request. He then motions you to the exit, looking about to be sure that Hucket is not coming. I do hope we meet again miss under better circumstances. It was a pleasure. He gives you a sudden wink, and then you find yourself out in the ally once more, wondering just what Hucket is up to and what kind of person Jodar really is as he doesn't seem to fit in with such men. As you are pondering these things, you notice a commotion down the ally way. It is a dog, fairly young looking and he is looking at you from a few yards away. He is standing still, all his muscles tensed and the hair on the back of his neck is standing up. His eyes are wide with fear and rage and his teeth are bared. A threatening growl emerges from his throat and he looks ready to pounce on you if you make a move. He is a large dog, and for a moment you think he may be rabid, but you see no foam or other signs of the condition. He stays there, tense, ready for you to make a move and yet at the same time looking as if he wants very much not to be here.

"I might be interested in seeing this for myself. It seems magic of some sorts is at work here. One's knowledge of magic can never be complete without examining all the possibilities."

Amadeus: Very well then. I will write you some directions to the most likely place that I have been told about. If you find nothing, come back to me and I will give you more. This first one is outside of the city. There is supposed to be a ruined temple somewhere out there, though I imagine there is not much left of it as no one has ever seen something like that. Still, maybe there is still a foundation or some such thing that will give us some clue. He hurriedly writes some directions on a scroll and hands it to you. Take care young man. I have a feeling you are important to this cause.

ooc: Go ahead and finish up here and I'll send you to the other thread.

"A temple? To whom? But I will go check this temple out."

Ravaella squares off to the dog and tries to calm it down.

18:16, Today: Ravaella Swordhand rolled 4 using 1d20+2. Handle Animal.

Amadeus: Igsordann. He says darkly. Some say that this evil is his doing. I only hope it is not the case as I don't know if going against a god is entirely possible. At any rate, that is all I know of the place. I only hope that you are more successful than I.

ooc: Go ahead and finish up here Amadeus, and I'll switch you to the other thread.

Ravaella: The dog doesn't seem to be affected by your attempts, though you do sense a hesitation on its part. Then it suddenly lunges at you, teeth bared and ready to bite.

ooc: You get an attack of opportunity against it so go ahead and roll. :D

Ravellia swings her morningstar at the animal in an attemp to fend it off


16:18, Today: Ravaella Swordhand rolled 19 using 1d20+5. Attack of Oppertunity.
16:20, Today: Ravaella Swordhand rolled 9 using 1d8+1. Damage

"Sounds like a plan to me."

Ravaella: Your hit rings true and the dog yelps and falls down in a great deal of pain. You have hurt him badly and he lays there, a look of pain on his suddenly gentle face. Its hard to believe that he is the same dog who attacked you moments before. His eyes are pleading as he lays there and you wonder what exactly has happened.

ooc: See you in the other thread Amadeus.

Ravaella kneels before the dog examining it closely. Its injuries could likley be healed with little effort but she was still wary of it attacking again, it might have been magically compelled into doing so however....


OOC:

Ravaella casts Detect Magic too see if there is anything odd about the dog.

You sense nothing magical, but you are able to sense something evil clinging to the poor creature. You have no idea how you are able to tell this exactly, but it makes the hairs on the back of your neck stand up and it is plain as day that something is trying to control it. He looks at you pleadingly, not only from the pain but from this evil that is oppressing him.

Ravaella puts him out of his misery with a swift strike using her morning star.

The dog dies quickly, though you can't help but feel a sense of guilt about the situation. As you look up from the body you see a strange figure from the end of the alley, looking at you with a strange expression. It is almost something of a smile...and you feel chills up your spine. It is a man, in black, with a long heavy cloak and golden hair that is quite unkempt. He simply stands there and stares for a long moment, and then gives an amused laugh at the sad scene before him. Sneering, he turns to go.

"Wait" she cries before quickly getting to her feet.

His smile grows more amused as he turns to face you. What is it mortal? He demands in amusement. Do you want me to bring your dog back or did you actually have a valid need? He laughs at the dog's body. You sense complete scorn, egotism, and a vast sense of superiority, not to mention dark, dark, evil.

"Who are you and what did you have to do with this poor creature?"

The man laughs at your question. I had nothing to do with it child. It was my master. The rewards of serving him are great and many. If you were wise, you would join our cause. I sense you have great potential and ability. Still, there is your stubborn streak as well. He smirks, amused. If you mull it over and decide to choose the winning side of the coming battle, then there are ways to find me.

Ravella stands and draws her weapon
"Who is this 'Master' you speak of and what do you mean by the coming battle?"

She was fairly unphased by her part in the death of the dog but she did not like the idea that this man knew something of importance and wasn't sharing.

Igsordann. God of the underworld, and soon to be God of all when the battle is over. You are a strong, beautiful warrior. He would be pleased to add you to the ranks of his armies in the coming war. I've had my eye on you for longer than you know Ravaella. He grins again. I told my master you would not join us though. It would be wonderful if you were to prove me wrong, but I think you are too sentimental and weak to realize a smart decision when you are faced with such.

This message was deleted by the player at 21:33, Sun 22 Jan 2012.