The voyage to Argos had been painfully slow.

The captain and crew hired had to manage unfavorable winds which had hampered the ship on the first day. While the second day the group was spent almost entirely belowdecks given that the ship had sailed into a horrible storm with waves the rocked the boat back and forth.  It was to the groups' chagrin to discover that the ship that Lord Joris' had provided them wasn't entirely seaworthy, given various small leaks in some of the cabins.

It was on the third day that the hired captain called counsel with the heroes, telling them that the voyage would have to be delayed for a few days so the crew could make repairs to prevent the ship from dropping to the bottom of the sea.  They would stop over at a very small island just off the coastline that they had been hugging which was noted on the charts as the island of "Dacia."

The village they docked at was of a modest size. It seemed like it must be of some stragetic importance to Thena given the military presence, but in all perhaps a few hundred souls inhabited it, a mixture of local fisherman, artisans, as well as Thenain soldiers and sailors stationed there for customs, trade and protection.

They were free to do as they pleased, at least for the time being. The captain advised the heroes that they should make introductions to the village's mayor. "I and my men will stay with the ship so as to arrange the repairs." he stated. "Best to let the mayor know you'll be guests in the village. He'll be your source of information on this place too."

Eurenomes was not a priest of Poseidon; swift Hermes was his patron. Still he was of Argos and there is not an Argosian born whose veins are not as much seawater as blood. He was not surprised the ship was in difficulty.

"The Thenains might be the wisest of the Mineans in philosophy but at sea they are as children," he said to himself albeit not very quietly. He spent the day below decks playing dice with any sailor brave or dullwitted enough to wager against a priest of Hermes.

Despite the lay the priest was in good humour as their vessel sheltered at Dacia. He had faith in the gods and he wouldn't follow one god in particular without a healthy does of curiousity. Walking out onto the simple dock he looked around and smiled. "The mayor it is then. Maybe he plays dice."

Eurenomes cheerfully started walking towards the centre of the village, glancing back at the others to keep up.

Aleta had stayed below deck to try and survie he boat trip. This had to be the worst sea trip she had ever taken. As they got off the ship, she glared at Eurenomes "You should have prays to get us here quickly. Your god might not be of the sea but he is of speed I thought" she can't wait to get a good meal.

She looks at the others "Let us find the mayor and present ourselves"

For Arthanos, the boat trip was a new experience, though the leaking and the storm were less the pleasant. As the captain explained about the delay, Arthanos had to restrain from thanking the gods for the break.

Once on shore, Arthanos was glad simply for the chance to walk on something that wasn't moving, and the idea of meandering around to find the mayor seemed like a good one at this point.

"Sounds like a good idea."he says as he moves to join Eurenomes.

A quick question to one of the villagers provided them directions to a large building in the center of the village. As they walked away from the docks they could see that the village center was relatively well-maintained. Ornate stone tiles had been placed, along with statutes of Gods and Goddesses. In the center of the plaza was a small fountain as well, though it appeared to be lacking water at present.

Eurenomes, at the head of the group, pulled open a large hinge on a door leading into what was likely a city hall, or at least a place where the men and women of this village could gather for meetings or for celebrations and festivals. As for the present moment it was nearly empty, save for some artisans who appeared to be in the process of painting some of the statues and walls inside the hall.

They didn't need to ask where the mayor was though. Instead, she approached them with a look of curiosity in her eye. "Welcome, strangers, to Dacia. I am Khloe, the elected mayoress." She gives a slight curtsy to them even as she looks them over. "What brings you to our fair island?"

"A ship Khloe... if you can call it that." Eurenomes smiled and returned Kloe's curtsy with a slight bow.

"We are bound for Argos but our vessel needs a few days repairs at your noble isle. I am Eurenomes, a priest of swift thinking Hermes and these are lordly Arthanos, clever Aleta and wise Dysis. I would humbly request permission to stay in your fair village."

Aleta grins and nods. She figures she will wait to see if they have questions for them, otherwise why say anything.

Arthanos glances briefly at Eurenomes over his choice of descriptor before bowing slightly to the mayoress.

"Arthanos of the house of Ortanios at your service mayoress." he says politely, then leaving Eurenomes to continue to talk.



OOC: Had to go digging through my notes to find where I wrote my father and family name...then remembered it was in my character description.

Dysis, from slightly behind the others, inclined her head, and said simply "Mayoress," in greeting.

She was pleased to let the others do the talking.  Between a Hermetic priest, a nobleman, and an entertainer, she had no reason to intervene.  And besides, she didn't want to open her mouth, and spoil her appellation, the wise, which she wasn't entirely certain she lived up to.  She rather felt, were she truly wise, she'd be living a far simpler, safer, kind of life, somewhere.

Anyrate, she offered thanks to Poseidon that the issues with their vessel had not caused them to sink, somewhere in the midst of the ocean.  This was a pleasant enough detour, and it felt nice to be back on the land for a bit.  She admired the ocean's grandeur, respected its power, but water wasn't her element.  Literally.

Khloe gives a respectful "m'lord" upon hearing the noble house of Ortanios. She continues to address herself to Eurenomes however, since he had requested permission to stay. "Your request is granted, so long as you and friends don't make yourself a nuisance. We've had enough troubles already..." her countenance becomes thoughtful for a moment before she then states "This is a growing community as I'm sure you've already seen on your walk here. You'll be able to find most of the basic amenities that you'd find in any of the great three cities."

"I advise against leaving the village and exploring the island itself. Although you are quite safe within our walls, the rest of the island hasn't quite been... tamed yet."

Eurenomes smiled charmingly. "Thank you mayoress Khloe. Are there temples near at hand? I would offer thanks to proud Posiedon for guiding us here and pray to swift Hermes for his wisom."

Unable to resist his curiosity he asked. "What are these troubles you speak of? Perhaps we can help?"

While the others spoke Itylus had silently sneaked in to the hall, and he was now leaning against a column by the entrance of the hall, watching the artisans work while lost in thought. He had been bothered by the high number of soldiers in such a small town, and had stayed behind in the plaza for a moment trying to figure out why. However he hadn't been able to perceive anything wrong. At least at the surface.

He was thinking about inquiring the artisans when he suddenly heard the comment of the Mayoress about troubles. So, quietly, he got close to the group to better hear the conversation.
This message was last edited by the player at 19:26, Wed 11 Mar 2015.

She nods "Of course. As I'm sure you can imagine, many of our citizens, including myself, worship Poseidon directly as our Patron has given us his blessings that has allowed our community to flourish." She continues "There are shrines to the Gods share a pavilion in town though, not too far from the blacksmith's, were you can make sacrifices to the Gods as needed. There is usually steady traffic so I have no doubt you will be able to find it."

Khloe hesitates a moment when pressed on the 'troubles' facing the island though. "It really isn't anything you have to worry yourselves about or can help with really. The problem is the malcontents from the westerly side of the island. Some individuals have settled over there over the past several years and they blame us for their misfortunes." she gives an apathetic shrug. "I don't put much stock in their stories of woe and suffering though. Unfortunately there just isn't anything we can do for them."

She concludes "While I certainly put no restrictions on your mobility, I do recommend again that you stay within the village's limits. I am sure you will be able to find things to do entertain yourselves while your ship is being repaired."

Eurenomes nodded thoughtfully. "Thank you for your advice and aid."

Departing the hall Eurenomes began walking towards the temple pavillion, though not before confiding in the others. "As I said I shall go to the temples first, but after that we better find an inn... and see if we can stir up some gossip. Hermes knows Khloe didn't tell us all about those malcontents."

Aleta walks with the others "Yes, an inn is the best place to find out about what is really going on. I wonder if its people who had issues with the town for some reason"

Itylus nodded. "Yes, we need to find out in first place why these people started leaving the comfort of the town to settle in the western part of the island. Was it only to colonize the rest of the island? Or was there another reason behind this departure? And also we need to find out exactly what sort of problems they have had "
This message was last edited by the player at 20:25, Fri 13 Mar 2015.

She looks at Itylus "Hey, people split off all the time for various reason, so who knows. But a drink and talking are just up my line."

Arthanos shrugs as he answers. "A temple and an inn sound good. And as Aleta said, people split off all the time."

Dysis nodded her own agreement.

"As you both infer, there is always two sides to every tale.  At least. Sometimes, there is a third.  That being the truth.  Anyway, the pavilion of the gods and then an inn sounds like a fine plan to me."   

Itylus turned to the group and said. "Well, I will pay my respects to Artemis later in the woods so while you go to the temples I'll go ahead to the inn and start inquiring a little bit about the settlers in the western side of the island." turning to his fellow specialist who hadn't manifested much interest in talking to the gods neither he asked. "Want to join me, Aleta? Folks will probably loose more quickly their tongues with you than with me."

"Wait a moment." Eurenomes suggested. Turning to Aleta he reached out and very gently touched her forehead with his fingertips. The priest closed his eyes and murmured a brief prayer.

"Oh silvertongued Hermes, please grant this woman a boon."

---

OOC: Eurenomes casts Divine Blessing (Personal Charisma) on Aleta.

"Yes Itylus, let us go and find out what we can. I am normally pretty good at it" she grins mischievously.

Itylus chuckled. "Yes, I have no doubt about it, Aleta." Seeing Eurenomes intervention he added. "Now, that is a very useful trick, Eurenomes. With this we will probably be able to squeeze everything there is to know about this matter from the townspeople."

"Well then," he said turning to Aleta, and motioning towards a street that took outside the plaza. "Let's go find that inn? The sooner we get there the sooner we will get someone talking."

"So let us go in and find a table. I an hungry and thirsty"

Almost the second after Eurenome invokes Hermes' blessing the transformation takes place. Aleta, already attractive and charismatic to begin with, appears even more radiant to others around her. Indeed, she could easily use her silver tongue to wile out information or garner favors.

As planned, the party splits, with Euronomes, Dysis and Arthanos heading towards the temples first to pay their respects, with Itylus and Aleta look for an inn. For a short time the group travels together until Aleta sees a promising looking place with a sign outside identifying it as "Island's Rest." It looks fairly large and by their guesses is probably where most travelers to the island would stay.

Itylus and Aleta enter and they find a variety of individuals already present wearing garb identifying them from the various city-states, as well as some more exotic locations. Some people are drinking and swapping stories, while others are eating dinner. On a staircase to their right, a somewhat drunken sunburnt sailor is flirting and haggling with a prostitute, while a man dressed in entirely in red brushes past the two to exit the building, giving Aleta a double-take before he exits.

In surveying the room, Itylus and Aleta can see a table where there appears to be a small group of local men - perhaps farmers or laborers by the look of them - sit and drink honeyed wine. At another table sits a man who is undoubtedly a noble, though of which city is not readily apparent. He has a full bushy black beard and looks annoyed as he drinks and continues to look towards the door. Finally, and unmistakably, is a Lyricist providing entertainment who sits and is contently playing her lyre in a chair in the center of the room. It is clear that several of the inn's patrons are enjoying her playing.  The tune is unfamiliar to Itylus and Aleta. It seems that she is improvising though.

The proprietor of the Inn approaches the two, a portly older gentlemen with a glass eye. "Welcome, young lords." he says with a bow to the two. "Feel free to take a table if you wish. If you want to stay the evening I have a very fine room perfect for a nice couple such as yourself." he says.

---

Euronomes, Dysis and Arthanos found the mayoress' directions to be accurate. There was no mistaking the town's blacksmith, who to their surprise turned out to be a centaur. As they walked by they could see the smith walk out from his forge, drenched in sweat from the heat as he places a newly forged sword into a display stand.

Past the blacksmiths' was a small temple pavilion. Statues of the Pantheon were present each leading towards their respective 'house'.  Taking prominence was, unsurprisingly, Poseidon, whose statue gazed down with disapproval upon all who approached his temple which was the largest building present. The other Gods were also represented, with Zeus, Hera, Athena, Hermes, Hades, and other Gods gracing the entrances to places where worshipers could make their petition. Outside of the buildings are no priests at present though they might be inside attending to a sacrifice or a prayer.

There are few locals present in the pavilion. A young woman with a bright yellow dress that matches her hair shyly passes on by the three, giving Eurenomes and Arthanos a flirtatious look before she heads into the house of Aphrodite. Standing outside of Zeus' temple is a grim looking warrior who stands with his arms crossed who either has not noticed the three or does not care about their presence.

The town seemed a pleasant one, and if Eurenomes liked the sea (he was Argosean) it was a pleasure to stretch his limbs after the cramped days aboard ship. The priest proudly wore his blue chlamys, identifying his homeland as his Caduceus staff marked him a follower of Hermes.

At the temple pavilion Eurenomes smiled back at the golden haired young woman and only reluctantly turned back to the others. "I suggest we buy two sheep for the sacrifices. I will buy for swift thinking Hermes, will you buy for proud Posideon?"

He glanced again to the house of Aphrodite. He revered Hermes above all, but he had a soft spot for the white armed goddess... and her followers.

Arthanos smiles at the woman, then grins as he watches Eurenomes reaction and his glance towards the house of Aphrodite.

"Are you sure we don't need a third?" he asks slyly with a grin. "And I'm happy to get the offering for Poseidon...I don't want him to have an active excuse to curse a follower of Athena." he says thinking of the rivalry between the two gods. He begins looking around to see if he can spot someone selling animals.

Aleta walks over to a table in between the noble and the locals. She would love to talk to the noble and could maybe separate him from some of his coin but it would not get them what they need, she doubts he knows a lot of what's going on like the locals would. She figures she will see what happens before she approaches anyone. she wants to see what is happening in the inn.

Looking around the temple pavilion, Arthanos does spot a young shepherd not too far from Poseidon's house selling animals, both live and already deceased, that could be used for prayers. Indeed, an old woman has already haggled herself a freshly killed hare which she takes from the shepherd and moves to take to the temple of Artemis.

At the Inn, Aleta moves away from Itylus to position herself at an empty table situated somewhat between the table of local men and the young nobleman. Her table, however, it not empty for long as a young brawny man struts over accompanied by two other men - perhaps lackeys? - they certainly seemed to be betas to this town alpha. A suggestive grin on was on the brawny man's face as he offers Aleta a glass filled with a red wine. "A woman with the beauty of the radiant Aphrodite herself graces us with her presence, my friends.""he says, his voice dripping with suave. "Tell me, oh vision of beauty, are you a champion of the fair Goddess, come down to mortal earth to taunt such mortal men as I?" He sits on an empty chair, perching his head upon both hands. He winks.

Out of her peripheral vision, Aleta can see the local men at the table ignoring - for the most part - this display of masculinity by the young Adonis, while the nobleman at the other table now wears a bemused expression.

The proprietor had watched this as well alongside Itylus before turning back to the hunter, saying "Best be careful with your lady friend hanging about that young lad, m'lord." he warns "Fancies himself a charmer of men and women alike.  Not many say no to him. Not many can, if you catch my drift."
This message was last edited by the GM at 22:04, Sun 29 Mar 2015.

Aleta takes the glass of wine and grins at the man "Good evening sir. I am just a mortal and would never compare myself to any of the goddesses. I am Aleta and I am just passing though town, they are working on my boat. Are you a traveler or are you from the area? It seems to be a fascinating island"

Eurenomes moved towards the animal seller Arthanos had spotted and greeted him in friendly fashion. "Greetings friend, I am looking for a sacrifice for quick Hermes and another for wave touched Posiedon and-" he glanced uncertainly at Dysis who seemed lost in her own world, "perhaps another."

The priest glanced shrewdly and with a practiced eye over the shepard's collection, prepared to haggle - Hermes would not approve of one of his followers being gulled.

She wasn't lost in her own world; but it wasn't in Dysis' nature to make idle chit chat, in most circumstance. (as well, her player hasn't been around the last few days. ;))  Neither the priest nor the nobleman addressed her very frequently, thus she didn't suspect there was any void that needed filling.

Like Eurenomes, she had most recently resided in Argos. But as Arthanos, whom she had known in childhood, she was Thenian by birth.  Her himation and chiton were both light grey, and reflected no tie to those places, nor to any other.

"Yes, another," she nodded to the merchant, confirmation of what Eurenomes had said, without being specific.

The goddess she worshiped wasn't represented here, but she was fairly used to that.  Her shrines were generally less common.

But, her goddess's spouse was represented.  And to him she would give offering.
This message was last edited by the player at 22:21, Mon 30 Mar 2015.

As expected, Aleta had immediately, and almost too easily, entered in action. In the time that took Itylus to explain to the proprietor of the inn that he and Aleta represented a larger party and needed more than a small room for two, she had already attracted the glances of many of the male patrons on the room and had a trio of local young men around her - one of which seemingly in the brink of professing her eternal love.

At the proprietor's last remark Itylus answered with a bemused smile. "Don't worry about it, good master. She isn't the type of woman that will be tamed by that sort of man.... He is like a robin trying to impress a female with his singing only to find out she is in fact a wild cat in disguise." turning to the proprietor he concluded. " And now, if everything with the rooms for our party is settled, I think I'll be sitting too. If you could send for your best steak and bring it to my table I would really appreciate it. It has been too long since I ate something else besides dried fish" he added with a grimace on his face.

Itylus then turned and casually sat on a table next to Aleta's. Even wild cats could need some back up when outnumbered.
This message was last edited by the player at 21:44, Wed 01 Apr 2015.

The proprietor gives Itylus a doubtful look after he makes his statement about Aleta. "As you say, good lord." he says. "I will have the food prepared. If you are staying then a bill will brought to you the next morning with the cost of the room. We will reserve one room for you, and the lady then and hold another two for your companions. I'll provide you the keys later." he says as Itylus moves to an adjacent table close to Aleta.

The brawny man hardly blinks as Aleta responds to him, and instead gives a satisfied smile. "Aleta." he says, testing her name on his tongue. "Aleta. What beautiful name."

He gestures with a hand towards the air, and one of the other men who accompanied him hands him a wine glass, seemingly procured out of nowhere "I am Gastadonis, and this island, well, it is my home. There is so much to see for a traveler such as yourself. I would love to show you the sights. In fact, Aphrodite has blessed our land with one particular spot just outside of town. A beautiful gazebo with rose bushes overlooks a lovely pond. At night the moon shines so radiantly upon the waters. It puts the mind to romance..." His eyes glance from Aleta's down towards her hands and the wine glass she holds which he had offered her. "Why don't you come with me and see it? " his voice is all syrup as he makes his offer and waits for her reply.





Euronomes looks over the selection of animals. Most here are already dead, although the seller has some cages with rabbits inside. The selection doesn't look inappropriate and obviously the man does a fine business given that it looks like a bit of his stock is already gone.

The animal seller looks them over, and hardly misses a beat as he goes into his sales pitch. "Depends on what animal you want, good sir, and lady." He continues "As everybody knows, Mighty Poseidon appreciates the sacrifice of a fine horse, and I have a young white colt raised for such sacrifice I could let go for 12 gold." he states. "Course, that's too expensive for many folks for a sacrifice when they might want to ride it instead or use it for labor, but I tell you that it will certainly will get Poseidon's attention." He continues in his pitch "Most folks around here like to sacrifice rabbits, ducks or geese. Obviously much less expensive, shows respect, but might not get the Gods attention obviously. I can sell you one rabbit for five silver, or five hares for twenty-three silver, not a bad deal..."

He continues, again hardly missing a beat. "'Course, sheep and lamps are by far the most popular. I could sell you a live sheep for fair price of, say, 35 silver." He adds "I do have three for you and your companions, and I'd cut you a deal of 1 gold for those three sheep. Sound good?" he asks.
This message was last edited by the GM at 00:48, Fri 03 Apr 2015.

"A sheep will do for me," Eurenomes said, smiling to reveal good teeth. He might lack Aleta's looks (though presumably very few men looked like Aleta) but he was silver tongued.

The priest of Hermes gave the salesman a calculating look. "Shall we say 25 silver then? That seems more than fair. 30 silver... and the name of that golden haired, yellow dressed maiden who strolled into fair Aphrodite's shrine a few minutes by."

Eurenomes did not truly expect the man to go so low but Hermes above all gods approved of bargaining.

"so Gastadonis, you just met me and already want to get romantic? You certainly are a bold one. she says with a smile as she takes his wine and takes a sip. She tries to figure out if she tastes anything odd about it. "So what should we do?" She leans closer to him, looking deep into his eyes.

Dysis stepped forward, and smiled at the vendor. Though her own teeth were likewise good, she used only her lips. Though perhaps not on Aleta's level, her own looks were above the norm, (15 Grace) she had been raised in relative wealth, and was educated and bright enough to comport herself well. As well as being a keen student of human nature.

Dysis rolled 26 using 1d20+7 with rolls of 19. personal charisma roll.

"Sir, I should add to what my amorous associate has said... we are a group led by a Thenian nobleman's son, that includes a priest," she nodded toward Eurnomes, "an intrepid hunter, a charming entertainer, and myself, a humble scholar. Our charitable works, performed in the names of several of the gods, have taken us far and wide, at our own expense.  Funds are a little tight, just now. But, we hope to benefit your community, in other ways.  May we have the price my associate asks?  It would help us a good deal."
This message was last edited by the player at 19:46, Fri 03 Apr 2015.

Arthanos hung back a bit, letting the other two speak. He could cover the cost of the 3 sheep easily enough, but wanted to see if the others could lower the price first.

OOC: 18:33, Today: Maze Master, on behalf of Aleta, rolled 7 using 1d20+4 with rolls of 3. Physical Vigor.


The wine is smooth as it goes down and is quite strong. It has a very odd aftertaste that Aleta can't quite place, though it was somewhat oily.


"You'll find no other as bold as I, fair Aleta." Gastadonis coos, then drinking of his wine glass. "What should we do? We should finish our wine and take a stroll. Just you and me." He gives a sharp nod to his lackeys who nod back and move to exit the inn.





The animal seller was in the middle of shaking his head to respond with his own counteroffer to Eurenomes when Dysis had spoken. "I, well, of course, I see my good lady. I do wish to help." he says, slightly sputtering, charmed as he is by the scholarly elementalist. "We'll say 25 silver a sheep as the gentleman had offered, a total of 75." he gives a nod. Obviously hoping to impress Dysis with his generosity. He looks back to Eurenomes "The name of the lady I shall provide for free, for I am sure that she would wish it to be so as well. She is Kassandra, a lady of Aphrodite." He adds "She is newer to our isle, only a month or two I'd wager."

Eurenomes handed over the 25 silver and mentally promised himself he would have to buy from women in future. Two could play the charm game.

"Thank you. My friends I shall see you later at the inn."

The priest of Hermes led his newly acquired ewe towards the temple.

Eurenomes provides his silver for a sheep and leads his newly acquired ewe to the temple of Hermes.

It is a small, humble temple and certainly pales in comparison to the temples in the great cities and his own home city of Argos. Still, an appropriate marble statue of the traveler, Hermes, graces the hall. The deity's sits on a marble slab, looking towards all those who enter the temple. In the right hand is a marble caduceus.

Few others are present. A silent attendant approaches Eurenomes, taking note of the ewe with a slight nod, and gestures where a sacrificial altar was where the sheep could be consecrated and sacrificed to the God.

Eurenomes led his ewe to the altar, his lips moving in a silent precursor to the prayers he would soon utter. He gently lay his own wooden caduceus aside as a sign of humility before the deity.

"Oh great Hermes, patron of far famed Argos, god of messengers and merchants alike, accept my humble offering and my prayers and guide me in your service..."

"Yes, let us go for a walk" she says standing up. She acts like she is sipping it but wonders what is wrong with it.

Satisfied with that result, Dysis thanked the vendor, and after all monies were paid, led her own acquisition into the temple.

As she walked, she pulled the small, onyx symbol she wore on a delicate chain about her neck, out from within her garments, to rest openly over her bosom.  It was that of the daughter of Demeter, queen of the underworld, Persephone.

But, as she was not represented here, Dysis made her way to the statue of her husband, Lord Hades.

Arthanos handed over the needed money, then took the last lamb towards the temple of Poseidon. He approched doing his best to show all possible respect, knowing how Poseidon and his own patron tended to get along.

Entering, he looked around for a priest or the place to take the lamb.

The animals paid for, Arthanos and Dysis take leave of one another and go to the separate houses of worship to make their offerings.

As Dysis enters the house of Hades, she sees the usual kind of folks who would make pilgrimage here, namely those who make offering and prayers for their own honored dead, as well as those who feared the God of the Underworld.  Even though a bronzed statue of him sitting on a throne awaited any who entered this temple, those who sacrificed averted their faces to him, lest they catch his eye.  Also depicted next to the sitting Hades is a statue of Cerberus, looking as fierce as the three heads each gaze in different directions.

More surprisingly, is a nearby statute of Persephone, also depicted sitting on her throne holding a pomegranate. Both majestic and also dreadful to those unfamiliar with her mysteries. She had a varied cult. Farmers of all kind would appeal to her, but others might find in her an appeal and interest that they would not find in the more reserved and passive Hades, who was usually content to let surface matters be, so long as they didn't interfere with his realm.

Dysis looks around the small house. Save for a few petitioners there are few present. Most here have their own sacrifices of smaller animals. Some leave coin or grain though. The sheep Dysis had purchased makes a noise which pierces the somber atmosphere. A darkly robed attendant approaches her, and gestures towards sacrificial altars where she could make her sacrifice, though she does see a priest present who obviously who would be used to ritually making the sacrifice on the petitioner's behalf. She approaches, though the priest is silent. The man's grey eyes gaze first at the lamb and then at Dysis. "For which soul do you petition for, young woman?" he asks, his voice raspy.

The temple of Poseidon that Arthanos enters is, perhaps unsurprisingly, well maintained and obviously well cared after, given the connection that the islanders would have with the Sea God.  The Earth-Shaker himself is represented in marble, a trident held in his hand as he judges all those who enter into his house. Marble fountains have been built inside the temple, and as Arthanos enters, he sees fish of various species swimming in smaller streams and ponds. There were quite a few people here. Many, of course, were petitioners, though it seemed the the temple itself was a common area into itself as others had gathered inside the temple to talk amongst themselves, conduct meetings, or just enjoy the tranquility of this place.  It has a certainly irony, given the wrath that Poseidon would display to those who traveled the seas without making proper sacrifice.  Arthanos with his lamb is flagged as a petitioner, and two attendants approach him, nodding approvingly, and lead him towards a sacrificial altar where a priest awaited. Even as Arthanos approaches, the priest greets him. "You have come, child of Athena, to give thanks to Poseidon for your voyage, have you not?" He nods. "It is proper, as only fools would dare to offend or ignore him when they ride his waves."

Being a priest himself, Eurenomes obviously needs no assistance in giving prayer and worship to his own patron, Hermes. Like so many times before, he intones his prayer and goes through the ritually begins to prepare the sacrifice. Such devotion could take a long time, of course, and if he wished boons from his God then he was required to spend that time. The communing itself was a blissful act that nobody save priests or perhaps the very few chosen by the Gods themselves could truly understand.

---

Elsewhere, Aleta stands up but Gastadonis stays where he is seated. "There is no rush, Aleta." he says. "Please... sit, finish your wine. Then we shall stroll." he takes a large sip of his own glass and smiles at her.

A maid approaches the table where Itylus sits by himself, and brings him a steak such as he ordered from the proprietor. Both Aleta and Itylus can see Gastadonis' eyes naturally wander towards the woman's behind before he darts them back to Aleta, renewing his charming smile at her. The maid gives a slight nod and smile to Itylus. "Best that we have, good lord." she says. "You look worn out." she adds. "Have you traveled from far away?" she inquires.

Aleta is the not the most trusting person, so if there is an odd taste, she is not going to take anymore after the first sip. As she sits back down, she accidently spills her wine on the floor. "Oh, I am so sorry she says innocently. "Let me get us some more wine." she waves over to the waitress and asks for a craft of wine.

Eurenomes piously prayed for the safety of Argos and her king, for the health of his sister and the good fortune of his comrades. Mostly though he prayed for wisdom and strength to commune with and honour his patron. This sacred time was not for the prying eyes of others and Eurenomes mentally shut out the rest of the world, save for whisper of his own prayers, the sharp tang of insence and the beautiful statue of the god he prostrated himself before.

So he remained as the minutes slowly stretched in hours, content to commune with Hermes.

Dysis too observed that custom, and turned her own face from the bronze visage of the Underworld Lord. While she had a healthy respect for Hades, she was gladdened to find that Persephone was given proper and due reverence, here.  To her she would sacrifice, then.

Dysis was assuredly no farmer. It was not for any reasons of agriculture that she had turned to her worship.  No, it was her other mysteries, as the Underworld Queen, that had spoken to a young Dysis.  Touched by elemental darkness, she had a link to their realm.  And, perhaps even more significantly, she identified with her.

Persephone's existence had been so sharply changed, after being abducted by Lord Hades.  Like Dysis' life had been changed, after her father's crime, that had sent her into slavery.

"My purpose is a little different, sir priest," she answered the grey eyed man, meeting his gaze levelly.

"I practice the arts of the elements, Lady Persephone is my patron." She indicated the symbol that hung about her throat.  "I've traveled here with colleagues, whom also serve the gods. We are each paying our respects."

For the first time the smile fades from Gastadonis' face as he looks at the spilled wine. "A pity." he says.  As the waitress returns with additional wine, he waves her off from refilling his own glass. "No need, good lady." he says.

With that, he stands and bows to Aleta, the smile returning to his face. "Alas, fair, sweet, clumsy Aleta, I must take my leave, I have another... pressing engagement which had slipped my mind until now." he returns from the bow saying "However, I am sure that we'll meet again. Until then..." he blows her a kiss.

The maid at Itylus' table had taken his stony silence to her question as indication he did not wish to talk, and so went back to the kitchen, though she darts looks at Aleta and Gastadonis as she goes.

---

At temple, the the priest had raised an eyebrow, but nodded in response to Dysis in understanding what she was telling him. He responds "Few are attuned to the elements of the realm that all eventually travel to." he states. "Gods and Goddesses are by their nature mysterious in whom they choose to work their will." he comments. "Very well, we shall proceed forward with the sacrifice..."

The priest takes the animal and begins the ritual as Dysis makes her prayer and petition. Although there is no mystical response like she had experienced in Thena, she knows that she is bonded with Persephone and that her patron's favor is with her.

When she is ready to leave, she sees that the grim warrior outside the temple of Zeus still stands guard. The only difference now was that his arms were uncrossed as he spoke to a youngster. The warrior nodded to the boy, who then entered into Zeus's temple with a skip and hop, and the grim warrior then recrossed his arms, waiting...

---

As for Eurenomes, following the approximate hour or two he spend in connection with Hermes through prayer and worship, he slowly begin to return back to the world.

Once he is ready, he can take his leave of the temple. Outside of Hermes' house, he sees that the house of Aphrodite is still open. Knowing that this is where he last saw the woman in yellow enter into, he can choose to follow her if he so desires.

"Thank you my Lord Hermes..."

Eurenomes emerged into the normal world thoughtful, his mind having difficulty adjusting. Communing with gods was like a dream and now he was awake. It took time.

Outside, after a moment of hesitation he gathered his chlamys around himand walked towards Aphrodite's house.

Aleta nods to Gastadonis "You have a good night and hopefully we can meet again" she waits for him to leave before waving the waitress back over.

She waits to see if anyone else comes over to her table.

Something about the scene had suddenly given Itylus a feeling of déjà vu. It had reminded him of another inn, on another town, long time ago... on the old times when he still worked with her.... As per usual she had been handling the information gathering from the locals, just like Aleta was doing now, and he had been watching her back in a close by table, just like he was doing now. But one night, that night, suddenly one of the most bone-chilling screeches he had ever heard on his life had cut the air, and before he knew it everything had turned on a living nightmare...

He shook his head. Suddenly realizing he already had the steak he had asked for in front of him, and that Aleta had already dispatched the would-be-Adonis and his lackeys from her table. Angry at himself for dwelling in the past in the middle of a work, Itylus started eating his steak, while belatedly he processed the scene his senses had recorded but his mind had been to busy to process. Once he finished doing that, he rose from his table and as discretly as possible went to Aleta's table and asked. "Are you alright? Is the drink he gave you having any effect on you? If you think so, then go upstairs and rest. I'll handle the rest of the information gathering."

Dysis thanked the priest of Hades for his aid, then made her way outside, toward the temple of Zeus. As she approached, she noted the shift in demeanor, as the foreboding guardian seemed to unclench for the boy, before recomposing himself.

Good. She was dealing with a human being, at least.

She considered returning Persephone's symbol to within her bodice, but then decided not to.  Though there might be a chance of prejudice, she could not bring herself to be covert about her devotion, so soon after paying homage. Without more ado, she made her way over to the guardsman.

"Sir," she inclined her head politely, "My name is Dysis. My friends and I are newly arrived on this isle. We have come from Thena, en route to Argos. Our number includes both a priest and a nobleman, and we are each servants of the gods, in our differing ways.  The mayoress told us, briefly, about some trouble on the isle's western side. And, well...we were a little curious about the nature of it. I do not mean to pry, sir. But we were curious, and often the clearest view of things comes from those closest to the gods."

Arthanos smiles and nods at the priests words.

"Yes, to give thanks for our safe arrival, and for hope that he will continue to look kindly on us when we go to continue our journey...though we will of course be offering him another offering then." He remarks to the man, then waits to follow his instructions.

Gastadonis leaves the inn swiftly and it is observed by the other patrons present, with the townspeople looking on with some interest at what happened, casting looks in Aleta's direction as well before they return to their drinks, dinner and own conversations. The nobleman with the bushy beard ignores the entire thing, just continuing to drink and watch the door, while the Lyricst continues playing her lyre.

It is only Itylus who approaches Aleta's table for the present moment...

---

The priest of Poseidon returns Arthanos' nod with approval at hearing his words. "It is good. We shall conduct the ceremony, and see that Earth-Shaker receives your offering." The priest takes Arthanos' proffered animal and proceeds to enact the sacrifice on Arthanos' behalf.  After it is finished, the priest offers Arthanos a hand to step up, saying. "The signs bode well. Lord Poseidon smiles on you and your venture." he says offering a smile.

Outside of the temples, Dysis approached the grim warrior outside the temple of Zeus. His eyes narrow slightly as she introduces herself but as she asks her question, Dysis can see some curiosity, and perhaps, some surprise. "I am known as Orion, a devoted son of Zeus, the divine witness of oaths." he pauses a moment. "I have been in this village for some time now. As I understand the problem, there have been some self-exiles to the western side of the isle, enough to start their own settlement."

"Assistance from this eastern village to the western one has been, let's say, less than generous." he states now giving a half-smile. "Island-travel has been virtually cut off due to attacks on small groups of travelers and, supposedly, attacks on the western village itself." Orion shakes his head. "It is probably just pirates or opportunistic bandits, though obviously there are those who swear they've seen far worse." he shakes his head. "The westerners have been politically difficult, so I suspect there is some hope they will either disband their settlement or rejoin this one." he shrugs "It is hard to tell what will happen. Little news comes from them in recent weeks."

Aleta looks at Itylus and speaks quietly "When I tasted the wine, something didn't taste right. I am not sure if it was drugged or just bad. But would  man like that have bad wine? I just had a bad feeling about it" She take a deep breath trying to see if she felt anything.

"I see."  Self-exiles?  Dysis was intrigued, by that.

"Is it known from where these exiles arrived?  And is the matter simply that they wish to govern themselves?  Or, is it some other issue which makes them difficult?"

"Hmmm.... The proprietor warned me the man fancied himself as a charmer and not many said no to him... Probably this is what he was talking about." Itylus paused for a moment to think what to do next, and then said. "Stay here for a little while, Aleta. If you start feeling  odd tell me and I'll take you from here. Meanwhile I will go talk to that nobleman." he looked  towards the nobleman with the bushy beard. "He seems a little too alienated from all that is going on. He didn't glance even once towards here while that fellow and his friends were here with you. Perhaps whatever is troubling him has something to do with the problems in town. In the mean time, if you could keep an eye on the Lyrist, i would appreciated it. Usually that sort of people hear a lot of gossip while they are working."


He then rose to depart, but before going he added, in a casual tone. " Oh and Aleta, if it isn't asking too much, try not to attract more odd people for today, please. It would be rather inconvenient if we have to go search for another inn because we were foced to put a dagger in one of the patrons' heart for trying to abduct you." And with this remark and a small smile, Itylus departed from Aleta's table and moved towards the nobleman's one.

"Hello there. Waiting for someone to arrive?" he inquired, following his gaze towards the door.

A sweet and scented perfume greets Eurenomes' nostrils as he enters into Aphrodite's temple. The motif of the temple celebrates the birth of Aphrodite, as fountains adorn the passage from the entrance towards the temple's antechamber which the priest now stood in. It was here that a marble statute of the Goddess herself, bare chested, awaited those who would enter into her domain.

It is here that rather striking priestess approaches him. "So, a son of Hermes desires to enter into the Goddess' chamber?" she inquires with a laugh."That is never a surprise to any."

The priestess looks him over. "But you do not look like you come to give worship. What pleasure do you seek?"

---

Orion shrugs. "From all over. Plenty of folks here have roots in Thena, Argos and Heraklia." he continues "Many dislike the mayoress and her policies and politics. She is the sort that tolerates no disagreement if you catch my meaning."

---

Aleta breathes deeply but doesn't feel all too different. She could still taste the oily aftertaste on her tongue from the wine. This continued "taste" did make her slightly queasy, but her stomach was able to tolerate it despite the discomfort.

It is good that she didn't drink more to the point of being truly sick or having something worse happen.



The bushy bearded nobleman gives Itylus a brief look of disdain as he sits at his table. "Yes, I am waiting for somebody, and you are not he, so kindly remove yourself from my table, sir." he states flatly.
This message was last edited by the GM at 13:53, Sun 26 Apr 2015.

Aleta sips some of the wine the barmaid brought over to try and get the taste out of her mouth. She continues to look around at the people in the bar. She is curious as to what the man was up too but it didn't seem right. As Itylus left, she just waves him off. "I will be fine."

Eurenomes laughs. "The pleasure of your company," he suggested. Turning to the statue of the goddess he bowed low. "And the honour of the goddess of course."

Straightening he looked at the priestess, taking in her golden hair sun coloured dress. "I am Eurenomes of Argos, bound for that fair city but my companions and I are becalmed on your shores for a few days. I was hoping a fellow servant of the gods could help provide a little information and help." His eyes glittered and he smiled. "And perhaps more."

The priestess laughs in turn at Eurenomes' comments. "You speak with the tongue of a dionysian. Still, many come to the temple of Aphrodite for answers to their problems. We can speak of the more perhaps later. For now, What information do you seek?"

Arthanos thanks the priest for his efforts and words, then heads out of the temple. Once outside, he looks around too see if he can see either of his compatriots.

Stepping outside of the temple, Arthanos sees Dysis speaking to the grim warrior standing outside of the temple of Zeus. Eurenomes is nowhere to be seen.

In reply to Maze Master (msg # 60):

"I do," she nodded, and replied to Orion. "Well, that gives me a clearer understanding of the situation. Thank you for the information, sir."

It didn't truly tell her anything she hadn't already known, but it had been worth a try.  Even did he know more, it likely wouldn't be wise to pry.  He might report such an attempt to the mayoress, and that would not serve them.  She smiled as Arthanos approached.

"So- has father Poseidon been properly reverenced?  Shall we make our way to the inn?  I know not where Eurnomes has gone...although I might guess," she added with a faint smirk on her lips.

Itylus' rose his hand in a mollifying gesture. "Peace, friend. I didn't mean to intrude. I was just wandering if you know anything about the man who was harassing my friend just now." He gestures towards Aleta's table. "It seems like he slipped something in her drink and I worry about what it may have been."

Arthanos grins back at her. "The priest says that the Lord Poseidon is currently happy with us." he says before a bigger grin split his face.

"Yes, we should probably head to the inn. It would be most rude to interrupt Eurenomes attempts at....prayer." he says, now trying to adopt an expression of innocence.

"And were your own prayers and inquiries successful?"

The man scowls at Itylus. "By the looks of it, your "friend" there was encouraging Gastadonis' attempts at seduction and wasn't being "harassed" by him." The nobleman says dismissively. He then takes his his eyes off Itylus and looks suspiciously at Aleta for a moment before returning his gaze. "She looks healthy enough for a clumsy girl who spills her drink." he scoffs. "Look, sir. If you have complaints about the wine perhaps you should take it up with the serving wench. I have nothing else to say to you."

Dysis began walking, as she answered Arthanos "The shrine of Hades contains an idol of my patron, Persephone, so I was able to offer to her, directly.  Which was splendid.  But, in terms of learning more about those troublemakers..." she shook her head.

"The guardian of Zeus' temple seems to believe it a reaction against the policies and politics of the mayoress.  She really likes to be obeyed, it seems.  But, I did not learn anything more specific, than that. Perhaps our friends have?" 

Eurenomes smiles, more pleasant and less leering this time. "Lord Hermes rewards the silver tongued amongst us but I am no Dionysian daughter of Aphrodite. As I said honour your scarlet haired Lady and her servants. Know they are loved in Argos."

The young priest continues: "I have spoken with your mayoress who kindly offered my companions and I sanctuary while our ship is repaired. She also told there is a division on your island. May I ask what is the cause?"

Aleta sips the new wine that was brought over as she watches Itylus. He does not seem to be getting any where but the man might have such a mood, it would take a goddess to get though. She waits for him to come back over.

The priestess frowns at Eurenomes' question for a moment, before she states. "Politics, sadly." she elaborates. "The religious community here tries to shy away from espousing one city's political viewpoint or another, but those in the village are tied from whence they came."

She looks at Eurenomes, before beckoning him to follow her. "Come, we can speak as one holy person to another, but not here in public." She leads the priest of Hermes through the temple to a private alcove.

She pauses. "How to explain to a newcomer? I guess you need to know some of the importance of this place. You see, our island, Dacia, is not formally tied to any of the three great cities. In fact, those who live here hail from or have roots from all three. What makes this a problem is that we are a strategic location and as such all of the great cities take an interest in forging stronger ties with us.""

"Mayoress Khloe is an aggressive leader, and in part to her, she has helped our island to flourish." she continues "But she is a Heraklian" The priestess says. "There is a community of Thenas and Argosians who distrusted her motives, and believe very strongly that she was pushing the island towards Heraklian annexation." She shakes her head. "Many months ago, they attempted to remove her by force but miscalculated their timing... The mayoress and the Heraklian community here swiftly took action and arrested the leaders. The rest of the population self-exiled themselves to the other side of the island." She sweeps her hands. "Since then, we are warned of the dangers of traveling and now only few travel outside the safety of the walls.""

"That, my handsome son of Hermes, is the cause of the division... and why we here live in tense times."

---

At the bar, Itylus takes his leave from the nobleman who glares daggers at him. The hunter sits back with Aleta, and whispers to her. "I distrust this man as much as I do your would be suitor.  It may be nothing, but I am going to see if I can track him down, see where he goes and who he speaks with."

With that, the hunter arises from the table and exits the bar.

Not too longer afterwards, Aleta notices that the nobleman had lost patience with whomever he was waiting for and left as well, though it appeared he was a guest as he went upstairs to the rooms of the "Island's Rest"

The young thief looks around the room again. The local men still continued to drink and obviously some were getting drunk. Some would shamble out of the inn while a few would peek over at Aleta where she sat drinking by herself. None approached though, but whether this was because they were busy with their drinking or perhaps put off by Gastadonis' failed attempt as 'seduction', it was hard to say.

The Lyricist had paused in her playing, as the innkeeper brought her a bowl with bread, as well as some cheese which she ate as gracefully as she had played her music.  In the interim since they had come in, Aleta sees a few other guests who had entered. Another woman, who might have been Zuri's twin but for her jet black hair had come in. Tall, strong and powerful looking, this Amazonian sat uncomfortably alongside one of the local men at another table and appeared to be questioning him.

Perhaps of more interest to Aleta was another man who put her in the mind of the old thief she had met before leaving Thena. This one was a young looking rogue who she observed playing a game of cards with another local. What the local didn't notice (but Aleta did), was that the man would occasionally slip a card from his sleeve into his hands during gameplay.

Aleta's observations are interrupted though by the arrival of Dysis and Arthanos, who now enter the inn after their respective pilgrimages to the island's temples.

Aleta waves to Dysis and Arthanos to get their attention "So, did you all find out anything? I didn't out much"

Dysis walked to Aleta, and shook her head.  "Only a little. We can discuss that in private, a bit later. And Eurnomes has lingered at Aphrodite's temple.  Who knows what he may come back with?"   

She looks at Dysis "Should we get a room here or head over to the temple?" she didn't mind her temple.

"I'd prefer to get a room, since we don't how long he'll be. But, if you prefer to go there and await him, I'm certain he will not mind."  Dysis' lips curved with faint humor.  "Just hope that the priestesses are not the jealous sort, as their goddess is renown to be."

Eurenomes stroked his beard, expression troubled as he listened. After long moments he nodded and spoke. "I see... do you advise me to be careful fair daughter of Aphrodite? I am of Argos, might she take me a spy for white bearded old Argon?"

It was hardly a secret where Eurenomes came from; his chlamys was dyed blue and only a blind man or a barbarian could fail to link the colour with Argos. To say nothing of his accent... Was a disguise in order? At the very least it seemed likely his movements would be known.

"My companions are of Thena in the main, though none as marked from their cities as mine."

Aleta grins at Dysis "Your right. I should not go to her temple. So lets get a few rooms, one for us and one for the men. We can leave a note here for them to say where we are. You want me to get it?"

Arthanos followed Dysis over to Aleta's table and takes a seat with her. He looks around a bit as the girls talk. As the conversation switches to staying at the inn, Arthanos joins into the conversation.

"I'll go speak to the owner if you want. How long do you think we should plan on staying here?"

She nodded.  "Sounds fine with me. Thanks for offering, Arthanos.  A few days, perhaps?"

The priestess shakes her head "You are new to this island, aren't you? You would not be exposed to who have been exiled and their ideas, so I doubt the mayoress would see you or your companions as a threat."

She adds "Not all of the Thenaians and Argosians joined in the movement to depose the mayoress. Only the troublemakers were ultimately put down and driven out."

"And there are those here who shed away from any loyalty to whence they came, such as myself. I am of this island now, and consider myself a Dacian."

---

Arthanos speaks with the proprietor, who informs him that Aleta's companion, (Itylus) had already spoken to him and reserved a few rooms for their group. He states, while offering Arthanos two keys for two separate rooms. "A bill for cost will be provided to you and your party the next morning, good lord."
This message was last edited by the GM at 16:39, Thu 21 May 2015.

A subtle chill descended on the room at the priestess' comments. Eurenomes was a deep patriot like most of the citizens of the Three Citizens. He carried Argos on his back wherever he went and the thought of casting that aside was almost as unthinkable as casting aside Hermes.

"Thank you daughter of Aphrodite, you have been a great help." His tones were perfectly polite, but perhaps slightly less warm now. After a polite bow he took his leave, bound for the harbour and the inn.

The priestess seems disappointed as Eurenomes withdraws and makes his way toward the harbor and inn.

At the inn, with the entire party present now (save the others who stayed at the docks, or Itylus, who had not yet returned), they go to their respective rooms and spend a peaceful night in their beds.

---

However, the next morning turned out not to be quite as peaceful.

As the sun began to rise and rooster crows, the party eventually roused themselves and go downstairs towards the common area. The proprietor is more than happy to show Eurenomes, Dysis, Arthanos and Aleta to a private table, and they enjoy a fresh farm breakfast, with eggs, fresh bread, milk, honey and meat to dine on. It is when they are eating though that the door swings open. It is the man Dysis had spoken with, Orion. His eyes are wide with alarm as he speaks.

"She's been murdered! A hush falls over those other patrons present. The portly proprietor quickly approaches the grim warrior of Zeus. "What happened Orion? who was murdered?"

"The mayoress! Khole was murdered last night!" he announces, his face now flushed as he shakes his head. "In her own bed as well. Her servants found her. A knife had slit her throat." The warrior takes a breath, obviously emotional over this. "The town is on lockdown. Nobody is to go in or out now, so says the captain of the guard."

"Come lad, have a drink of water and calm yourself." says the proprietor, showing the warrior to the bar.

Eurenomes had returned and shared the information he had gleaned - though on the topic of the priestess herself, if the topic was raised, he was far more circumspect. Disappointed perhaps.

The following morning saw him in better spirits, at least until the man Orion arrived. The priest exchanged a grim glance with his companions. He had not taken a liking to the mayoress but murder was terrible thing - and they were to be trapped here for Zeus knew how long.

Aleta waits to see what happens. She is not happy with this as it will delay them as well as murder is such an ugly thing. She is afraid as strangers, they might be blamed but with the current strife on the island, there are other possible murderers.

The proprietor pours Orion a drink of water and the warrior sates himself. He then stands, turning towards all townspeople who had gathered. "I am truly sorry to give such horrid news this morning, but the word must be spread. I must go now to inform others." Orion's eyes linger over to Dysis for a moment before he turns back to the proprietor "I shall return this evening to stand vigil over your guests this evening. If we are fortunate, the murderer will be caught by then."

The warrior then departs the inn, followed by many other townspeople.

Arthanos is surprised by the arrival of the large man and his worrying news. At Orion's parting words, Arthanos turned to look at the others.

"Well that could be either good or bad for us. Either he's there to stop us killing others, or there to stop others killing us in revenge." He says with a grim expression. "We should go warn the crew of the ship of the change in circumstances."

In comes a rarity a Nereid ,a Nymph of the mighty Oceans and Seas, in what amounts to a skimpy tunic outfit and coin pouch but armed with a Trident and needless to say is a creature of fine beauty and in her realm power. Her long hair decorated with weaved plants and shells and she has jewelry of seashells all on her the neck and wrists and ankles. Walking to a table she sits not to worried about being harmed her blue eyes in blue looking around.

She arrived right before the ban on people coming and going, well she is not a person, but said she would honor their Request to stay but now has to find things to do.

Taking a seat she places her Trident aside and strokes her luxurious hair back her scent of the Sea even as she dries off some her clothes clinging to her shapely form.

Dysis nodded at Arthanos' words.  "Yes. That would be wise to do. It may be as you allude to, Arthanos.  Perhaps someone decided our arrival here was a convenient prop for what they have been waiting to do.  Yet, logically, we have no motive. Even were we hired killers, it would be a stupid thing to do, so newly arrived."   Her dark eyes followed Orion's retreating form for a moment.

"I'd rather not await for him to return.  I'm going to see if I may speak with him before then."  With that said, Dysis followed Orion and the small throng of townsfolk out the doorway.

Eurenomes' eyes widen with the Nereid's entrance - a daughter of the ocean! The young priest of Hermes nudges Aleta and dips his head towards the newcomer.

"Please lady of the wine dark sea join us. Unless my eyes are very wrong you are a stranger in this land and these are troubled times to be journeying alone. We too are wayfarers, lately landed on this shore and we'd appreciate your tale if you'd tell it."

Eurenomes gestures to the seat so recently vacated by Dysis.

"Thank you mortal, I'm Doria, and my chosen home with my sisters is near the island. I chose to spend time in the human realm then was told I couldn't leave of course keeping me here would be difficult. And I am a child of Poseidon in my heart I wouldn't harm anyone here unless wronged myself or do they fear the Lord of the Sea's mercy.," she sat down and waited for the wine its one thing she liked in the mortal world.

Smiling she added ,"As for trouble who would dare challenge one of my kind in the Sea we are the se like a mortal child in the mothers body, monsters of the sea perhaps, if such could find me. Outside my realm perhaps but I have my gifts."

Aleta looks at Doria "Hello. I didn't realize you people where close to here but I guess I should have. I am Aleta, a traveling entertainer. " Well, as strangers, if they didn't draw attention before, they would now.

"Well we are all over not just by ocean we have sisters in all of nature, even mountains. We do visit the temple from time to time at night to avoid mortals, to see if the priests of our father Poseidon need our aid. I stayed in the Ocean for the last ,I forget when I was formed a hundred or two hundred summers, a long time. I need to get more experience to help my sisters and gain power so decided to explore the mortal world. I thought my presence would be welcome on a ship traveling the Oceans and a way to get coin or maybe work as a musician.," Doria says pleasantly but she is admiring Aleta as much as a man would for a moment.

"I am Eurenomes, a priest of Hermes," Eurenomes began, but drew to a halt as he noticed the way the sea nymph was looking at Aleta. The priest smiled ruefully. Hermes might be his patron but fortune was not his friend.

"Its a pleasure, so your strangers here your no fishermen or local crafts people. If so does your ship need a Nereid on board I would like to earn my keep in your world by music or my powers to aid a ship or both, when we can leave.," turning to Eurenomes she is eying him over to immortal creatures often explore many things and he is a handsome man.

Taking a new glass of wine she does a Libation to the gods and goddesses ,"To honor the gods my father Poseidon and the god Hermes and all others, may they bless us and send to the murderers your wrath, bless the soul lost in Elysium if it be your will." She pours a bit of wine to the floor and with true piety.

She orders a meal no fish oddly but greens, vegetables, fruit especially dates and bread with honey paying in OLD coins likely from some cache non-nymphs can't find.

Aleta smiles "I admit I am a follower of Hermes also but I pay homage to all gods when I am in their domain. Doria, I find you fascinating, do you have a lot of sisters?"

'ALL Nymphs are sisters in the nearby Ocean there are were six I'm off to travel, so now five, plenty for a family remaining and I may return. Or not., Doria says to Aleta.

Arthanos is very surprised by the arrival of the Nereid. While he is appreciative of her appearance, having yet another strong sign of Poseidon's presence and favour show up made him very nervous.

After sitting for a few minutes listening, he decides to go visit the boat and deliver the warning.

"I don't wish to seem rude to our new guest, but I must excuse myself ma'am, it was a pleasure to meet you." he says politly to the Nereid, the looks at Aleta and Eurenomes "I'll go make sure the captain and crew on the boat are updated and will meet you back here later." He says and quickly matches actions to words.

As he leaves he decides on the way back it might be a good thing for his nerves to go back via the temple district and visit his own patron's temple.

 The evening wind, had the fragrance of jasmine and salt from the sea. It was a soothing balm, to the troubled soul,that was Lysandros. He had been upon this island for a fortnight, seeking  the sign that the oracle in the Temple of Athena,had told him would reveal itself,and point him toward his heart's desire. So far, all he had seen was goats, fishermen, more goats,and a few birds. This night, he was sitting on the beach,a jug of wine in one hand and a stone, in the other. He skipped the stone out into the incoming surf.
This message was undeleted by the player at 02:49, Thu 04 June 2015.

Aleta looks at Arthanos "I guess the rest of us will wait here. Come back soon and let us know what the Captain thinks. " she looks at Doria "Nothing against the sea but I have not been on it much. So I trust what the sea people think. "

Doria looks at her ,"I can show you my world for a time and I'd love to show you, my magic can allow it, to travel and move as I do. When I can spare magic and time for that. And how many here are performers we could perhaps work together as a troupe to make more money when on land just having me along should increase our fee I would think?"

 The door opened to admit a young looking man. He wore a tunic and sandals,with a dagger upon the wide leather belt at his waist. He was fair to behold,with Hazel eyes and dark long hair.  Seeing strangers, that where seated in the Common room, Lysandros nodded to them. " Fair travels, to you  Good Sirs and Ladies." The Noble  waited for a repsonse, before he might approach the group.

She looks at Doria shocked "Oh, I would love to do that" she says in a low voice. She can't believe she would be able to do that.

She sees the new man "Oh, greetings. Are you new to town?" the group was definitely not locals.

 The  newcomer smiled,then advanced towards the group. " In truth, I have been on this island a for man days. I am in search of something,and it has yet to reveal itself to me." Lysandros made a motion to an empty chair at their table.

"Join us for some wine friend," Eurenomes said, gesturing to the chair and extending a hand in greeting. "Eurenomes of Agros, priest of swift thinking Hermes. We are, or were, bound for my homeland but we seem stuck in these parts for the next few days."

"My homeland is over there just have to set foot in the Ocean, your homes might be impressive in size or grandeur but it pales to mine.," Doria said with a smile knowing her homeland IS the largest in the world and truly magnificent and she feels lucky.

 The  well spoken man nodded. " My thanks, I am honored to share wine with you all. " Said in his obvious, well educated words.  He sat down, and introduced himself. " I am Lysandros of Thena. So, what brings you all, to this Island?" He asked of them.
This message had punctuation tweaked by the player at 15:50, Sat 06 June 2015.

As it had turned out, Dysis had left the inn (following on the heels of many townspeople after Orion) all shortly after Doria had arrived. It also happened that Arthanos had also left the inn and company before Lysandros arrived and had introduced himself to the group as well.

---

It was not hard to track Orion. Indeed, the large warrior could be seen standing head and shoulder taller then a majority of the townspeople that had followed him out of the inn as he headed towards the guards' barracks outside of the city hall.

As Dysis followed she saw that many of the townspeople had begun to disperse. Many to the temple district, while others choose to go shut themselves into their homes and wait out what looked to be the inevitable investigation.

By the time Dysis had caught up, Orion was banging on the barracks' doors as some of the other citizens watch. "Come on, open up you cowards!" he demands. "You have failed your oath to protect the citizens of this village, and I shall speak with the Captain of the Guard!" There is no response to his pounding though.

---

Arthanos finds himself amongst a crowed of other worried townspeople who are now flooding into the temple district. Many, obviously, go to the temple of Poseidon, but there are others who go to Apollo's temple, Hera's, and Athena's just as Arthanos heads.

As he heads into Athena's temple Arthanos finds the priest there already addressing the townspeople "Calm good people, calm." The priest calls out. "I have heard the news as well..." he continues to call out trying to calm the crowd who seek the wisdom of the priest and indeed, of Pallas Athena herself. As Arthanos looks around he sees a familiar face, that of the old man Mentor, who had bright gray eyes and spoke with at the temple of Athena when the party was in Thena some time ago. The old man watches the display with interest.

She looks at Lysandros "Oh, I am Aleta, an entertainer. Our ship had to put into port, so we are here. What was your quest here? Maybe we could help"

 The Young Noble, took a seat on a stool,at the crowed table. He accepted a cup of wine,and sipped it slowly. When the comely woman asked why he tarried on this island, Lysandros did not reply at first. He seemed to consider the question,then answered. " I am not even sure myself. I was told by an Oracle to come to this place,and I would find the path, to my hearts desire. So far, the path has eluded me." He took another sip of wine.

"I lived out there, about a quarter a day and nights a Nereids swimming speed full pacing so am local as far as Nereids consider such things.," Doria said sipping some more wine.

"I was curious about dry land dwellers.," she added.
This message was last edited by the player at 23:28, Sun 07 June 2015.

"Not a good sign, I think," offered Dysis, from off to one side.

"For one of two reasons. And, if either are true, it makes this even more serious."

She looks at Doria "I am curious about water people but I can't go down to meet you so I am glad you can come up here. So you can breath both air and water?"

"Yes, obviously, I'm not flopping on the ground gasping. Its easier than you trying to breath in water without magic.," Dori thought the question was kind of silly.

Arthanos' eyes widen then narrow at the sight of the old man. He carefully picked his way through the crowd towards Mentor, trying to make it look like he was simply getting a better position.

When he reached Mentor, he stops and stands next to the man for a minute listening to the speech before speaking.

"Well I am surprised to see you here. Did you enjoy your trip to the island?"

"Perhaps you should ask the gods?" Eurenomes suggested. The young priest looked thoughtful. "Does your family follow a divine patron?"

"Well Dori, I was just being funny. I suppose we will see what is going on here to see if there is an adventure. Can you leave the area or are you stuck to a certain area?"

 Lysandros slowly nodded. " I thank you for your counsel, Sir, but it was a servant of a God, that has lead me to this place. I offer homage to the Goddess Athena." He took another sip of wine.

"I can travel anywhere. well the Oceans and Seas are preferred by a Nereid but I have no boundaries. Exploring the world is why I'm not among my sisters I'll be of far more value with my powers stronger with experience.," Dori said with a smile.

"That's wonderful Doria. I would love to go down there at some point. Right now my favorite thing is just getting into a hot spring or hot tub" she says with a grin.

Eurenomes had fallen silent, lost in thought. "Lysandros, our comrades are bound for fair Argos. If you are on the look out for adventure and are pious and good with spear and shield perhaps you should like to accompany us? I warn you we expect difficulties on our adventure... in a way of speaking the gods are leading us too."

 The newcomer slowly rubbed his chin, in thought. "Argos, you say? Perhaps it was this group that the Oracle bespoke to me about. By the Gods, this is the first sign of good fortune,since I arrived on this island. I shall join your band." The man sounded very sure of himself,and just assumed he would be welcomed by the others.