Noticing the conversation no doubt about him, Imbellem, takes his time to look around. allowing time for them to reach a decision. After a short time, he begins childishly kicking rocks, swinging his walking stick around playfully like a grand weapon and occasionally exhaling loudly, as to be noticed. Running low on patience, he looks up and makes eye contact with a man.

Not saying a word, simply outstretching both arms, palms up, whilst making a half smirk and cocky facial gesture as if to convey him saying "Weeeelllll?"

While his arms are outstretched in his grand posture, a small wooden cross slips, not fully,  out of the right sleeve, noticeably the only one with a glove concealing one of his hands.

He quickly slides the holy symbol back into the sleeve.
This message was last edited by the player at 02:34, Mon 29 Dec 2014.

"hmmm if he is indeed a priest, we could definitely use his help. especially after the incident on the boat, right adwonus. Although we would want to watch him, those magic types can be tricksters. They look weak, then all the sudden they send a pillar of flame down on you!" Dwalin seems to be thinking of a past experience by the look his face.

"A cleric would be pretty fantastic." Taisiya agreed with nary a hesitation. She turned from the others a bit and looked down towards the man waiting with a snarky smile. "I think it sounds like a great idea, I mean, why not?"

[Private to Lady Jacqueline Raynelde: After listening to Jacqueline in the base of the tower I reply in a whisper, becoming more emotional as I speak. I am calm at first, but I become almost enraged. Containing my fury I speak as quietly as I can keep myself. "I think your judgement is sound. I would not be opposed to attacking the pirates with Adwonus, but I don't understand how you can forgive him for what he did to Larlben. He might not have understood he was your step-father when he got the assignment, but he sure understood when he murdered him in cold blood. Self-righteous pig!. That was the closest to a father you have ever had, was it not?!" I look down at the floor, about to shed a tear, but I shrug of the pain, or perhaps more accurately bury it again with fury. "What was he thinking?!" I shout with rage (in a whisper) almost ready to cry. "What was I thinking!?" I speak with a cold realization, confronted by more guilt- The words come out like a whisper to myself, really just a thought to myself. 'I never would have let this happen if I knew. I fell back asleep?! I should have know a deceiver like this! It happened again!? Not Again!' Tears come to my eyes, but I redouble my efforts to wipe away the condemnation with a double dose of fury. "He deceived the wrong man. He thinks he can deceive me and not pay for it? ...He deceived us all. He was manipulated just like he says about us Christians he attacks and disdains. He is blind. He took charge and deceived us. it is just more proof; I am the one meant to be in charge." An acrid mixture, like lemon juice and sour wine, swirls in my heart. Hatred burns inside me. I was not strong enough to save her father, I was not there for Jacqueline, I will make the wicked pay. "He will pay for his arrogance." I say with a cold hatred, fueled by the intimate knowledge of my mistakes. The battle in my soul rages.  A verse comes to mind, "Who will deliver me from this body of death!" My hands come to my faceand I turn from Lady Jaquelin to face the wall. The tears begin to flow, unable to be contained. My hand clenches in a fist and pounds on the wall.

Suddenly, I must gain composure again as I hear the words of Aidon, shouting about the portcullis,] I return upstairs after this short recess from our (Aidon and my) earlier conversation. I walk out to the portcullis and meet the others. "Whats all this commotion I hear?" I look down from the parapet, as well, at the... priest? he sure seems to be a feisty one. "He looks like a monk of some sorts, he must have heard of the battle. Wait, he said he is a doctor?! Get him in here! We have wounded down stairs." I remember again the pain in my side, looking down at the wound and blood soaked area, I speak, "I need his services..." In a sort of stunned realization.
     I walk to Aidon and speak directly and clearly,
     "Aidon, I understand your concern at a time like this. We will be upon our way momentarily. Give us a moment to gather our things and don our rucksacks.
     There is nothing else we need to bring to Kelden correct?
     Also, if you trust this fellow, he would likely be able to help the wounded downstairs, something to consider.
     I assure you, we have the cities best interest at heart. I believe in Kelden as a leader. I will not see our city controlled by the corrupt and power hungry. We will find Kelden and give him this paper. We will warn him. But only through God's help. I am not sure if you believe in God, now would be a good time to start. God's Will be done!" With this I salute and go to gather our loot immediately.

[Private to DM Ryan; Dwalin Grayhammer; Lady Jacqueline Raynelde; Mikael Vaeltaja; Taisiya Northwood:
I turn and speak to Taisiya, Dwalin, Jaqcueline and Mikael. "I agree Mikael. I think this priest or monk may be a great asset to our cause... if we can trust him. I know my side would appreciate the attention." I lift my arm to reveal the recent spear wound. "One of our greatest needs lately has been a doctor or healer. I suppose even if he learns of Kelden's hidden base, supposedly the enemy knows already so what harm would it cause? Before we decide for sure, we need to talk to him more. Lets do that when we exit the tower, instead of shouting back and forth."
     "On another subject, prepare yourselves to leave, we need to be squared away to leave ASAP. DO NOT FORGET THE LOOT! If anyone needed to upgrade their armour or equipment now is the time, we have a couple pairs of studded right here. We need to make a list of who took what, however to keep things fair. Get dressed in any armour you needed to change now, before we leave. The rest lets pack up to bring with us. Do not worry, I think I know what we need to do." I grab any remaining loot that no one else grabbed and dole it out to people of our party able to carry it in their packs.
     "Now before we leave, is there anything else we need to do or know?" After confirmation, we leave the tower.
     When we are ready I have us exit the tower, either by rope or by door. [Private to GM: We exit on the side of the lower (middle district). If that is which side the red circle was on the map with all the red lines going to it.]
     {After we exit the tower we can converse more with this priest/monk to decide if we will let him join us.}] [Private to Lady Jacqueline Raynelde: {I will also talk to you more about your mother then}]

Taisiya looked at the rope burn on her palms. She lightly touched them, and a hint of pain flared. "They're not bad. Give it an hour," Jacqueline said over her shoulder. Dwalin finished climbing down the rope and landed with a thud next to them, his chain shirt and shield clanking. In contrast, Adwonus landed like a feather, graceful and silent as a cat, despite his size. "Catch!" Herr Johannes shouted as he tossed down some equipment. Jacqueline was nearly caught by surprise as a bundle of studded leather flew into her arms from the sky. Moments later, Johannes climbed down, though he looked funny while doing so, for his pack laden with an assortment of bulky items. "Alright, that's everyone," added Mikael. [Private to Herr Johannes: Landing on the cobbled stone, Johannes stood up straight. Adwonus leaned against the wall of the guardhouse, watching the rest of the party, and their eyes immediately met. There was a conversation to be had, Johannes knew, and his heart churned with fire.] [Private to Adwonus Swillman: Watching the others climb down one by one, he finally saw Johannes touch ground. Immediately, he glanced upward at Adwonus. 'This guy is going to be a problem,' Adwonus thought to himself.]

Standing in the city street, blue skies stretched from one horizon to the other, and a flock of seagulls glided overhead. The party stood on the western side of the gate, and through a crack in the thicket of buildings, they could see a glimpse of the Twin Bridges to the southwest, leading to Lower Herrod. Suddenly, a walking stick banged on the iron portcullis from the other side. Aidon's voice could be heard from above the gates, speaking to the would-be traveler. "Open the gates!" cut through the air. With a clamor of grinding metal, the gates lifted, and the odd-looking priest ducked through to the other side where the rest of the party was standing. As soon as he was through, the portcullis slammed back shut; rebels controlled passage through the center of Upper Herrod now.

"Finally!" said the traveler, as though he'd been waiting years. His messy shoulder-length hair was dark and it seemed to fall wherever it pleased. "You said you were a doctor right? There are wounded inside that guardhouse you could help." Patting some dust off his worn clothes, the priest said, "I offered my services, but you could say he declined. Something about 'not thinking I was a real doctor' and 'trusting a bandage more than my stitching.' The nerve of him!" Johannes and Mikael gave side-long glances toward each other. The priest's eyes followed the hanging rope, tied to a battlement high above, "Not sure I could make it up that thing anyhow!" "Right," Mikael coughed, not without implication. "Anyway guys, we have much to accomplish, a Quest. And above all, we need to know where to start. . ."

Map of Major Places we've been thus far:


[Private to Marcus Larlben: Marcus, without uttering a word, drew his sword and slashed at the looter. Blood spattered onto the stone as the sword cut across his chest {Hit: 10 Dmg.}. He looked shocked, almost not expecting someone to fight back. "I'll do you in for that!" shouted his friend (2), standing behind Marcus. He ran up with his dagger, but Marcus elbowed him in reply, keeping him away a moment longer {Miss}. Getting over his surprise and filled with spite, the flat-nosed looter (1) swung his club and painfully caught Marcus on the cheek {Hit: 4 Dmg.}. That left a bruise.

]
This message was last edited by the GM at 13:52, Mon 29 Dec 2014.

As the last few members of the company climb down from the wall, the members present speak with the mysterious man having now introduced himself as Imbellem. They were engaged simple small talk, merely to discover if he was a genuine man, subtly trying to determine whose side he was truly on.

A cough cuts though the conversation in the distance, a wet cough, full of blood, fear, and a single incomprehensible word. It took a moment, but the word “Priest..” could be heard. His eyes widen and quickly he turns his body to locate the source of sound, almost frantically. Seeing a man dressed in red laying in a large pool of blood motion to him to come closer, Imbellem quickly discards his walking stick as well as his backpack and runs to the man in the short distance.

The party watches the priest in confusion. That guard had likely just killed several freedom-fighters, citizens. He is beyond saving. A rebel shouts from a short distance. “What are you doing? Let the scum suffer. Where does your allegiance lie anyway?” yelling, pointing a judgmental finger toward the cleric.


“My allegiance, Ser ” Shouts Imbellem stopping from his short sprint merely to turn his head just enough to make eye contact with the rebel fighter, a brewing rage beginning to boil through his gaze. “Lies with those who require it most. Regardless of whatever personal preference you would assume is acceptable.”

The rebel, shocked and slightly intimidated, lowers his extended arm, and takes a step back.
The party is tempted to tell him, but  it's no use. His fate is determined. They all form a small line, all looking on as the cleric runs to the request of the man, wounded, and likely beyond help, foot halfway in the door of Hades.

Ending his short sprint on a dusty slide on his knees, Imbellem lands next to the man, wounded beyond repair, coughing and sputtering blood as he tried to speak. Imbellem leans closer, to hear the words of the dying man.

Blood, watered the ground where the guard lie, there was no hope for his body, he was on his way to die, any moment now.
“Priest?..” He said, sputtering though the blood now filling his lungs “Yes sir, I am, what do you need?” says Imbellem, looking over the physical state of the man. He doesnt have much time left. “Do you hate me?..” said the guard, fear glazing his already pale face “No I do not hate you, people make bad choices sometimes, ill bet youre a nice guy.” The guard turns his head to cough more blood, ”I'm afraid.. What will happen to me?..” he said, tears now beginning to stream down his battle warn face.

Time was running out. The group, not  far away, can hear their conversation, as well as see Imbellem nodding, shaking his head and talking with the dying city guard. They see him pull the small cross he had in his sleeve to its full extension, it was clear he had it wrapped and out of sight around his wrist by a string, concealed by the long sleeves of the cloak and held it out to the wounded man. “Anything that you have done that you believe was wrong, you can be forgiven for. The Lord God will forgive you, and allow you to enter into his paradise.” A confused look overtakes the guard, “Your god.. will not forgive a man like me.” He said, becoming more pale due to loss of blood. “My God” Imbellm says, holding up the small cross, “Will not look at your past, all you have to do is ask forgiveness, and accept him as your own”

The guard smiled, “I'm not sure why,” he said, “But.. Ill trust you. Please let me see your God”
“Just reach out, and ask his forgiveness, believe him as the one and only true Lord, and trust my friend. He will forgive and accept you.” Imbellem says, holding the cross closer to the city guard. He attempted reaching a shaking, dying hand toward the small wooden cross, but couldn't do it, due to his lack of strength. Imbellem helps him, leading his hand toward to holy symbol, holding it for a few moments. The two close their eyes, resting on each others forehead. Imbellem in prayer, the guard asking forgiveness for his past mistakes, and begging to be allowed to be welcomed into paradise to a God he knew nothing about. After a moment of silence, the guards eyes widen. He looks to the sky, with a smile crawling along his weakened face. “Wow.” Says the guard. “Your Lord is truly the real deal.. If only.. I had.. known.. sooner..” “We will see each other again in paradise my friend” imbellem says, beginning to tear up. only to have the hand of the wounded man fall as the last seconds of his life were drained from him.

The priest lowers his head for a moment, and then stands, without turning; simply looking up to the sky. The then wipes his face and turns back to meet back with the group, trying to appear as if the he was not an emotional man, but one of stone heart, and not upset about the event that had just happened, but overall, he was happy with the outcome of the conversation. "So, where are you headed?" He asks, secretly eager to be a part of their adventures and trying to bush off the past few moments as if they had never happened.

The half orc shrugs his shoulders. "Let's go see the old man. I got some words to exchange with him. However, if we go, there's some protocol ya all gotta follow if you want to get in and speak with him and keep us from gettin' a blade to the belly. Shut yer traps about any rebel ideology ya might have. Don't mention this event, don't challenge him or try to be argumentative. I'm gonna use him to take care of the problem. But We gotta delay the rebels too. The city needs to stay in a stalemate till the sea rats are fish food. My debt will be repaid, the dwarf will get some good fights. Then the city and rebs can all slaughter each other and spout idealism from their mouths till they're blue in face. Sound good? Everyone gets what they want." He pauses and looks to Jacqueline. "And about rattin' out yer brother to the little rebs, sorry. Nothin' personal. Had to get us all booted out somehow. If I hadn't done so we'd be stuck in that mess. Also proves a point about em. They're no bigger minded than the big bad men in charge right now. They'll cast a man out like Marcus because of his blood and not his actions? I just want you all to think on that..." his eyes briefly flash to the paladin.
This message was last edited by the GM at 17:29, Tue 30 Dec 2014.

[Jono, I think you mean "Marcus" not Martin. Martin's not been with us for some time. DM Ryan - Lol, I took the liberty of correcting that.]

Lady Jacqueline did not wish to respond. Quiet, doleful, and seized with inner thoughts, she just seemed to be reclusive about how she felt at the moment.

[Private to DM Ryan: Inwardly, she was screaming. Why?? Why would Marcus abandon us? Why would these things happen?? Why can't the grip over the city be a peaceful one? Does everything have to end up going so quick-paced??

"Mommy," a little girl called out. Jacqueline squinted fiercely through tears. "Mamma, what happened to my sissy?" The comb in her hands tenderly brushed through long red hair. She takes a deep breath. "Your sister..." said Riene Corelia. "..is safe, elsewhere." "Abigail?" Deep blue eyes peered up at her mother. "Yes, dearest. She's Abigail." A tear rolls silently down her cheek beneath her fascinator. "Mommy..."

Does anything else need to feel robbed of me? Like I've no other family left to find my roots in?

{22:43, Today: Secret Roll: Lady Jacqueline Raynelde rolled 17 using 1d20+6. Listen Check.
22:43, Today: Secret Roll: Lady Jacqueline Raynelde rolled 12 using 1d20+6. Spot Check.}]
This message was last edited by the GM at 17:30, Tue 30 Dec 2014.

[P.m.]

[Private to GM: Marcus fought through the pain. He had taken blows just like this during his training, but that thought did nothing for the sting. Ignoring the urge to check if his jaw was broken, he faced the second looter and with the same calculated measure he had dealt with the first attempted to run him through.

***

Marcus turned, bringing a wide slash with his sword. The second looter {2} behind him was thin and gangling, with a scraggy beard to match; he was practically dressed in rags, for his shirt and trousers were so worn and damaged. Marcus ruined them a little moreso. His blade cut through the looters shirt and left a reddened streak in the pale tan color. He cried out in pain. The one in front {1}, husky with a flat-ugly nose, said, "I've got his weapon!" He made a grab for Marcus's arm. The two struggled a moment before Marcus threw him off, holding onto his sword {Disarm – Resisted}. The second looter lunged with his dagger, wounded and desperate, but missed in an awkward thrust {Miss}. Clutching his dagger tight, he looked around quickly before dashing through the broken window, back into the store they originally came from {2: Tumbled}. He darted behind a shelf full of goods and out of view. The fat, husky one {1} took a step through the empty frame onto crushed and broken glass, clinking beneath his boots.


]
This message was last edited by the GM at 17:22, Thu 01 Jan 2015.

Taken aback by the snappy response from the half-orc man he had just met, Imbellem stood in the quiet as he scanned the group for what he was hoping to be the closest resemblance of a leader, or at the least, the most 'Sane' fellow. His gaze floats across a Paladin, standing upright, while the others stand in most casual positions. You can learn a lot about a person simply by their body language after all. He then notices a cross on the mans shield, with a sigh of relief, he motions to the Paladin, "Ay, ser knight, might I have a friendly word?" he asks, waving his arm toward the Paladin

I notice Taisiya's hands, while I repel down the wall, and mention to her, "You may want to get a pair of gloves, I have a spare pair if you need to borrow some right away."

As I repel down the side of the wall, from the parapet, the rest of the way. I observe the man known as Imbellum run off suddenly from our group. He was chatting until something, apparently urgent, caught his attention. I take a moment to hear what he is shouting and look at what he is doing. "What is going on?" I wonder to myself. I continue my descent to the street level. Upon my arrival to the cobblestone street, I see he is attending to a wounded guard. Immediately I put my prior concerns on hold. I speak to the party urgently, "Hold on, someone with healing skill come with me! Jaqueline?" I (we) hasten over to the priest kneeling on the ground. It is over. The man has passed on. I kneel with the priest and close the man's eyelids in respect to this man. I bow my head a moment in silence.
     [Private to Imbellem Tueri: {This is unable to be overheard well from the group without a good listen check, it would be also visible to whoever chooses to accompany me} I notice the cross on the priest's wrist as I kneel beside him.
     "Are you a Christian Priest?! It has been a long time since I have seen a priest of my faith, It is an honor to have you here, brother." I extend my hand and grab his wrist,] [Private to GM: as is custom among soldiers of my order. (Being a Paladin, I am part of an order, even if that order may no longer exist.)]
     [Private to Imbellem Tueri: "Was he a believer?" I nod to the deceased man on the ground, "Did he accept the Lord's forgiveness before he passed on? I pray he did." I speak with a concerned furrowed brow. A slight smile comes to my face with the priest's response. I put my hand on his back in understanding.
     After giving him a moment of privacy to collect his emotions, I speak softly and kindly to the priest. "Believe it or not, I had ordered my party to tend to the wounded, the freedom-fighter's officer even gave me leave to have his men help tend to the wounded city guards. First his men, then to the guards. This man must have been missed, or mistaken for dead... most of the fighting took place over across the portcullis in the street, so this man is quite a distance from there. Even our enemies are still men and should be treated as such. It is in a knights code of honor."

As we stand to walk back to join the others I speak to the priest about the recent events. "Days of Chaos seem to be on the brink of overtaking this city. Are you from around her? There is a veritable civil war, the fighting is not constant, but it is an open battle, people are having to choose sides. All this while the wicked pirates watch on corrupting systems of justice for their own wicked ends. They have been a plague on this land too long. They are like this shadow government, controlling those in power with their riches and threats. It is essentially common knowledge that the Lord Steysus (the sort of governor of these parts) is only a pawn of the pirates. Justice is not common, while common people in financial hardship are forced to make deals with pirates, like organized gangs. The pirates leave many alone, as long as it does not affect them, otherwise, they steal what they want, hurt who they want, rape who they want, murder who they want. When I saw this land under such a plight, I knew I could no longer stand by. When I saw my friend's suffering first hand, I knew someone must fight against this great evil. I heard a call in my heart! God said, 'Who will fight for me?' I answered and said, 'I will Lord!' I heard the call. I knew it was not a call to help feed the poor, like other Christians (which is fine), but mine was to fight for the innocent, for those who could not fight for themselves. God gave me an anointing to lead. God blessed me with the ability to fight. He equipped me. 'For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure' Philippians 2:13. He gave me the call, the desire and the ability, to Him I give all the glory. Now I do all I can to see His glorious will come to pass on this world. THY WILL BE DONE LORD, ON EARTH {Tel'Gia} AS IT IS IN HEAVEN." Tears come to my eyes as I look toward heaven, my jaw flexed from the emotion. The passion is evident in my voice, but more than that, a sort of spiritual force is present behind my words. I, also, like the priest, attempt to calm down once again, before meeting my party members.]

When we get back to the party, I introduce myself. "Oh, I almost forgot, my name is Herr Johannes. This is my fellow compatriots. I will allow them to introduce themselves."

After this introduction, The priest then asks:


Adwonus then speaks. {see his post}

After the short conversation with the priest I am collected enough to speak calmly to Adwonus. "Let us assume what you speak is true, then it is essential that I find Kelden and tell him what is planned. Otherwise, this fight will become one sided from the sound of things. If what you say is true, it sounds reasonable, I wish you had told us sooner."

"You risked Marcus' life to prove an unnecessary point- as you notice,  Kelden's men were reasonable enough to let you go, in spite of your attempts to intimidate them. They were going to send us off either way. They assumed Larlben killed their friends. Larlben wanted us to correct that misunderstanding, to bring a truce. Try to prove your point all you want."

"As for me, I will not be joining you immediately, as I said, I need to warn Kelden. I think you and I need some time apart anyways. If you really can get to the heart of this and send the pirates to the grave, contact me. For now, I need to prevent a slaughter."

I turn then to the party, "It is up to you all then. You all understand the urgency of finding Kelden. That is where I am going. I do not assume that you are under oath to follow me, I leave it to your choice. You have freedom to choose of your own volition. You must make your choice quickly however. I know I can use whatever help you can offer, we just need to move out soon. Many lives depend upon this."

While I wait for the party to decide I speak again, "Adwonus, perhaps you should go to Steyus, without us and talk to him. After all, you seem to know him the best. Then when you get clearance to execute a raid or whatever, contact us."

Imbellem calls me over. "I will let you all decide while I talk a moment with the priest." I step aside with Imbellem to talk privately.

[Private to Imbellem Tueri: Imbellem made an inquiry as to who the 'old man' is and why Adwonus seems so negative. {See chat}

     "Oh him? He is more than just that. He has been a grouch like that since I first met him. At first I thought he was just a rough character to deal with. I learned though that I think it may be more than that," I speak that last phrase in a tone indicating I am understating it. "I will be plain with you, and tell you directly. Beware him, I think he means well, but his definition of right and wrong in the context of this city and the civil war leave me disgusted at times. He deceived us, he is self-righteous and I am unsure how he regards Christians.
     Look, I am not here to expose his flaws, I know as a priest you may be inclined to not judge him, but you must understand, he is dangerous. He likely thinks he has done no wrong and treated us with respect. I would beg to differ. Marcus has nearly given up on everything at the death of his father. Adwonus murdered or aided directly in the murder of Marcus father, he was under orders to do it and thought it would help end the civil war. He never told us, instead he almost used us to help put their family at ease so he could get close to them. So rash. It was terrible... I hate to bring up prior mistakes of people, but I am telling you so that you are aware. Jacqueline was his step daughter. She grew up without a father. She had the chance to have a real family and father, and he took that from her. Even after he knew he was her step-father. Adwonus was aware this was Marcus father as well. It was a terrible loss for them. Please use wisdom and discernment brother. Keep Marcus and Jacqueline in your prayers." I look at the ground with great sadness and clench my jaw, resisting the emotion still so present from the terrible event.

"Oh and I almost forgot, I believe he is referring to Lord Steyus when he says the 'old man.'"]

I speak once more to the priest as we walk back to join the party awaiting their decision. "I realize I have not heard yet, what is your name?"

{Sorry for some of the discontinuity, trying to weave my post in as I read posts...}

[Private to GM: In a war zone, I make sure to stay aware of any possible attacks or threats.
{00:22, Today: Secret Roll: Herr Johannes rolled 19 using 1d20+1. Listen Check, Situational Awareness; MQ.
00:22, Today: Secret Roll: Herr Johannes rolled 11 using 1d20+1. Spot Check, Situational Awareness; MQ.}]
This message was last edited by the player at 05:47, Fri 02 Jan 2015.

Taisiya shook her hands to relieve the burning feeling on her hands for a moment before pushing the white hair that had fallen in her face back. "I'll be fine, it's just a bit of burn." She said with a half smile. ((By the way, ironic timing for giving Taisiya burned hands, I just got chemical burns on mine from working with jalapenos a couple days ago)) [Private to DM Ryan: She felt a bit of a shiver go down her spine. It was only rope burn. She couldn't imagine the pain of the actual flames. The entire reason that she banished herself from her home because of the burning of the one boy who couldn't just shut it, only so much more intense. She could handle giving herself a bit of rope burn. A fraction of the pain, without all the same ramifications.]

She already knew what her decision was, and simply waited. She had her arms crossed with hands pressed against her arms. It only hurts till you get used to it after all.
This message was last edited by the player at 16:46, Fri 02 Jan 2015.

Interrupting conversation, the party suddenly heard the rumble of thunder, like an earthquake that couldn't be felt. They all glanced at the sky, but it was pure blue from one horizon to the other. For a moment, they were confused as to its source. "Sorry, that was me," Dwalin grunted. Immediately, the party realized it was his, "-stomach. It's been some time since we last ate." Lady Jacqueline noticed the growing ache in her gut as well. As adrenaline from the battle waned, the needs of the body returned, and they weren't too happy. It'd been early morning since they'd eaten anything, breakfast at Larlben Manor. That seemed so long ago. "We've yet to decide where to go and how we're going to go about it. We might as well discuss it over lunch. The priest can come too." Few could protest that, and a meal would do the nerves some good.

They began meandering westward down the streets. Townsfolk had slowly begun to trickle back into the roads as people were determined to get from one place to another, but most shops were still locked up and boarded. "Maybe we can convince one of these taverns to let us in," Adwonus advised. Shadowed people moved behind the windows of a nearby tavern called Jorgens, but it was hard to tell past stacked tables barricaded against the glass. Adwonus walked up and knocked on the door; a middle-aged woman answered, her hair tied in a bun, "Yes?" "Open for business?" asked Adwonus plainly. She glanced from one end of the street to other and replied, "I s'ppose it's fine now. Come in dearies."

Dim lighting illuminated the interior, for most of the window had been blocked out by furniture. But the rear half of the tavern was still untouched, a long table in the center and booths lining the back. The long table's twin had been placed on its side and pushed against the window. Several of the booths were already occupied by commoners who'd found their way in here, either in getting off the street when battle first began or in the same way the party had. Since the long table was the only place large enough for the lot of them, they seated themselves there at the farthest end, a couple halberd swings away from the nearest patrons. The smell of something hearty and mouth-watering wafted in from the kitchen through a swinging door; boiling beef perhaps.

Mugs of ale filled each hand within the minute. "Me name's Flor," said the middle-aged woman, drying her hands on a stained apron. "They call me that cause me drinks put ye on the floor!" She laughed enthusiastically, but the party just replied with a polite, awkward chuckle. "Sorry, tis an old joke 'ere. Now, fer a silver each, I can get ye beef-carrot stew an' bread an' the like, or for just a gold I can fill up the lot of ye."

After their meals had been arranged and Flor had trotted into the kitchen, Mikael finally said, "Now. . . we must talk {See Channel 4}."

[Private to Taisiya Northwood: Taisiya glanced down at her hands, but the ropeburn had nearly gone now. It was nothing. The memories were staggeringly more painful, old wounds, and these wounds weren't of the flesh.]

Sitting at the large table, Imbellem takes a seat next to Herr Johannes, Leaning toward him, he whispers.
[Private to Herr Johannes: "I notice that grumpy half-orc man seems to be in pain.. he looks wounded. I wasnt completely honest when i met them, I am indeed a doctor of sorts, but a cleric, using the power of the Lord to do the healing. He seems rather closed minded to the idea," he says, eyes shifting "But would he allow me to heal him with prayer?"]

[Private to GM: Imbellem examines the fellow party members equipment]
This message was last edited by the GM at 02:06, Tue 06 Jan 2015.

In reply to Imbellem Tueri (msg # 365):

The half orc leaves the bar, no longer a member of the party. He is alone and angered. He steps out into the streets and surveys the wreckage.[Private to DM Ryan: Trapper whistles to see the woman again as he makes his way stealthily towards Steyus's place.]

Lady Jacqueline nibbles at her stew, not really saying nor thinking anything of any importance. Her eyes (and mind, for that matter) simply seemed fixed on something far away.

[Private to DM Ryan: {22:13, Today: Secret Roll: Lady Jacqueline Raynelde rolled 11 using 1d20+7. Spot Check.
22:12, Today: Secret Roll: Lady Jacqueline Raynelde rolled 27 using 1d20+7. Listen Check.
22:14, Today: Secret Roll: Lady Jacqueline Raynelde rolled 14 using 1d20+3. Knowledge Nobility/Royalty.

Just a random reflection on anything, really. I'm kinda lost as to what to do independently/secretly from these guys. ;) }]

Herr Johannes took a sip of ale.
[Private to Imbellem Tueri; Lady Jacqueline Raynelde:
Reply to Imbellum's earlier inquiry, (from FB chat between him and I)
{I am including Lady Jacqueline in on this conversation because so much has to do with her, she can ignore it or add as she would like to. :)}

     At first I am confused by his statement, "Hmm, I am having a bit of difficulty understanding your recent inquiry about Adwonus, could you clarify? Do you mean Adwonus declined your help as a doctor?"

...Imbellum replies...

"Oh, I understand now. He serves a different God. Some orkish god I believe. I do not think he would be opposed to it (your prayer). I think rarely does a person decline healing or prayer.

However, I will mention to you how he got that wound. {His only wound in our current quest is an arrow wound to the shoulder, the rest of his HP loss is due to a side quest which is technically in the past.} He finally admitted that, in spite of how he deceived us, he was the one, with an accomplice, who killed Jacqueline's step-father. When we all found out we finally came to blows. We actually (Dwalin, Jacqueline and I) attacked him- it was in the middle of a battle. He had joined ranks with the opposing forces. After the battle he offered to tell us some information. He was captured by our forces and was released. Now he is here today. There was more details, but that is the main portion of the story.

That wound was caused by Jacqueline's arrow. He killed her step-father. How you choose to help him and that wound is your choice. I think it is best I keep myself on this side of the table, or else I might come to blows with him again. Even now, this distraughts me, but we must press on. {You would have to ask Ryan or check back on the posts to find out. I believe the arrow wound was only about 5 damage though.}"

...

"Oh, and I think you would be glad to know Jacqueline is a fellow believer as well. There are many religions in this land, many who worship other God's than the true God. But she is one of the faithful. Thank God for His Loving Kindness."]



[Private to Dwalin Grayhammer; Herr Johannes; Imbellem Tueri; Lady Jacqueline Raynelde; Mikael Vaeltaja; Taisiya Northwood:
{See Chat Channel 4...} We move to another more secluded room.

Herr Johannes plucked out a map from the deepest corner of his backpack. The corner of it had been burned away. He unrolled it upon the table:


.

Addendum to Chat Channel 4.1:
{Laughs} "Left before your vows eh? You know, I never saw anything against alcohol in my code, except perhaps to excess. A lover is up to your interpretation, seems to be different based on order.

I would agree it is more likely points of interest than assault plans

Hmm, it could be part of the code, good idea.

The boars tusk burned down the day we acquired this map. I doubt anything was hidden about that. I know it was a rather important place. Larlben's and Kelden's forces were meeting that night to discuss a truce. Then someone out of no where attacked Biff while he was surrounded with guards. It was surely a suicide mission, but then why did he kill Biff knowing that. Larlben thought that likely the pirates caused the fight to keep their factions from uniting. I would say Steyus had not part in it, being we were his agents, bit after Adwonus acted so completely independent of our knowledge, I am not really sure."

Jacqueline asks, "May I take a look at the map, please?"

I reply to her, "Sure. Here tell me what you think.

I would be glad to tell you all more about how all this came into our possession and the day that Inn burned down. Just ask. I may tell you on the way if we need to get going. We will soon need to go."


After the Chat in 4.1
"Also, I remember now there was an additional important document we found when we acquired the map, they were both in the same envelope."

{Ryan! Could you help me with a link here? The note/journal page we found from Biff with the map?

"Again, I remind you, DO NOT TALK ABOUT THIS WITH ANYONE OUTSIDE THIS ROOM. I mean no one... these days trust is a commodity not given lightly. If given to the wrong people, it can mean peoples lives, as we know too well from earlier this day." A look of anger and frustration becomes evident in my face.

...After a some time...

"Alright, it is time, we need to get going. Pack your things, pack any food you have left. Lets divide up our share of the 1 gold coin bill for all this food. Lets not forget the tip. This woman sure saw too it that we had all the food we could eat. Also, if you needed a portion of the equipment we acquired to upgrade let me know so we can take a note of it.
     I think I would like to run you all through some drills at some point later, we need to learn how to work as a team in combat and have everything in full order. We need to be prepared for combat, before any is upon us. However, this will have to wait until after we find Kelden. First things first. We will need to take note of our stock soon as well, in the even anything needs to be refilled or purchased in regards to equipment and combat.
     If I have interpreted correctly our conversation, we will make for that nearest 'oP' mark on the map and see what it means. Then we will decide from there how we must procede and if our ideas of this map and decifering it have proved correct. We will refine our search from there. Once we get to that location we need to look for a house, unused? or some entrance to the sewers?"

After prepairing our things, and paying Flor, we make our way toward the nearest location 'oP' on the map. We go to where the 'o', which we interpret to be a circle surrounds.]
This message was last edited by the player at 07:25, Thu 08 Jan 2015.

I finish the last of my ale, finally able to take a small moment to relax with everything that it going on.
[Private to Dwalin Grayhammer; Herr Johannes; Imbellem Tueri; Lady Jacqueline Raynelde; Taisiya Northwood:
I examine the map to try to determine the meaning behind the markings by deciphering it or if I have knowledge that would lead me to understanding it.

14:10, Today: Mikael Vaeltaja rolled 11 using 1d20+2. Decipher script: Marks and symbols on the map.
14:09, Today: Mikael Vaeltaja rolled 16 using 1d20+2. Knowledge (local): Map.

I say to the group. "Well if we are all in agreement I think we should start making our way to that location on the map marked with a 'P'. We should be able to find a little more information there and it's pretty close. I just need to hit the bathroom and I'm ready to get moving if you guys are."]
This message was last edited by the player at 19:17, Wed 07 Jan 2015.

Imbellem thumps down his roughly third ale, taking a close look at the map.. studying it deeply..

14:02, Yesterday: Imbellem Tueri rolled 3 using 1d20+1. Knowledge local check on map.

Nodding, he then drunkenly makes his way to his pack, pulling out a small fiddle. Twings and twangs fill the room as he tries to tune his instrument.

"My apologies" He says, ear close to the well kept instrument, almost treasured in appearance. "If I have a moment, i would like to play a quick tune for this fine establishment for a few extra coin perhaps before we take off, shouldnt take more than a few moments, ill be right back"

hopping out of the room like a giddy child, he was gone to the main room of the tavern before the party had a chance to say anything to him.

"Excuse me fine people" he says in the middle of the room, fiddle in one hand, bow for the instrument in the other "dafaq you want music boy" says a gruff voice from the corner of the room. The room is quite full of people, dining and drinking at this point. "I have a small request, I am a traveling.. traveler and make money often chance i get, so if it would please you, i would like to play a small song for the good folks of this tavern."

The room sits in silence.

Unphased, and seemingly still in a good mood, imbellem blurts out "No objections then, how wonderful."

He then proceedes to place the instrument under his chin, and drunkenly takes a few sweeps across its shimmering strings. The crowd begins to laugh at him, but to their amazement, it was simply a warm up, and a most upbeat diddy begins to reverberate from the small wooden instrument.

18:47, Today: Imbellem Tueri rolled 22 using 1d20+2. Perform Fiddle.

"I call this song," he says begining the lovely ballad, "To the Bastard Who Started This Mess"

The chords echo the room as his voice bellows drunkenly over the lovely tune.

"Nothing In life if quite as it seems,
this most of all, makes me want to scream.
Both sides believe they themselves right,
but all that it does is make the common folk hold their swords tight.

To hell with the guards, and screw all the rebels,
But what bothers me most." He stops for effect of the song, pausing in silence, to take look at all those watching him.
"Is this Surplus of Assholes"

The crowd seems to enjoy the song, as an agreeable "Aye!" and chuckles can be heard.

The song continues:
"Things are unjust, unfair, and corrupted, of this i agree,
these bastards who started all this 'aught be hung from a tree.
I pledge no allegiance, to one side nor the other,
But to the one who I find guilty, well I'll visit their mother."

The drunken angry man from the corner in the gruff voice can be heard laughing.

"Become their new father, and punish their behavior with a harsh tone of sass,
All the while, putting them over my knee to whoop that boys ass."

A final strike of the bow and the song ends, leaving the now sobering up imbellem to bow to those who were just listening.

He gathers his things and walks back into the room with the group, standing, now sure how to respond. Puts his fiddle back in his pack and places both hands on the table staring intentely at the map, only to look up to see the group looking at him.

"Sorry." He says timidly. "I had a song in my heart for a while i needed to get out. pay no mind to that. It was the ale."
This message was last edited by the player at 00:37, Thu 08 Jan 2015.

In reply to Imbellem Tueri (msg # 370):

Before trapper goes to the center island, he waits in the dust and the growing dark. Things are going to hell and he can't do anything about it. He here's music coming from the bar. After what he has just heard he needs to tell them... He turns around and breaks through the doors. Spotting the clergyman finishing up playing the fiddle and singing a song of violence unbecoming to a man of the cloth. He doesn't care. He eyes the party and tells them. "We need to talk. Now. Big mistakes are about to be made."

As the music began to play Taisiya's eyes darted up, surprised out of her daze of staring at the map with her thoughts off in far away lands. A small smile breaks on the girl's face from the cleric's song. She drew her eyes back to the map "What is it Adwonus?" Taisiya asked, picked her head up from wordlessly staring at the map laid out. "Did something happen, or did you hear about something?" If the half-orc had come back there must have been a fairly important reason.

Focused on the task at hand and not given to drink I do not notice Imbellem leave. After a time I notice from the lack of his comments and the mention of the lack of response from the other party members. "Hmm, I think he has had too much ale -do we need to stop him?" I look up to consider a moment. "Perhaps, we will let him sing, I think he is trying to earn our dinner." I realize what he is doing however, he is playing to earn a coin or too. Quite a good idea, while he has the time. His lyrics are... well, not what I would expect from a priest. If Adwonus and I knew what each other were thinking, we would have actually agreed on that point. None the less, I hope he earns some coin for our dinner.

[Private to DM Ryan; Dwalin Grayhammer; Imbellem Tueri; Lady Jacqueline Raynelde; Mikael Vaeltaja; Taisiya Northwood:
I go back to studying.

I look closely at the map and study it. I consider all the knowledge I have gained and if any pertains to it.

{
02:45, Today: Secret Roll: Herr Johannes rolled 23 using 1d20+4. Knowledge (Religion) Check, on map; MQ.
02:44, Today: Secret Roll: Herr Johannes rolled 10 using 1d20+1. Knowledge (Nobility and Royalty) Check, on map; MQ.
02:44, Today: Secret Roll: Herr Johannes rolled 5 using 1d20+1. Knowledge (History) Check, on map; MQ.
02:43, Today: Secret Roll: Herr Johannes rolled 18 using 1d20+1. Knowledge (Arcana) Check, on map; MQ.
02:43, Today: Secret Roll: Herr Johannes rolled 13 using 1d20+3. Knowledge (Adventure) Check, on map; MQ.
02:42, Today: Secret Roll: Herr Johannes rolled 17 using 1d20+1. Spot  Check, on map; MQ.
02:42, Today: Secret Roll: Herr Johannes rolled 2 using 1d20. Search Check, on map; MQ.
02:41, Today: Secret Roll: Herr Johannes rolled 17 using 1d20+2. Gather Information Check, on map; MQ.
02:40, Today: Secret Roll: Herr Johannes rolled 14 using 1d20+1. Appraise Check, on map; MQ.}]

At Adwonus's entrance back to the inn I look up, concerned at what new information he has acquired. "What is going on Adwonus?" I walk up to him to find out what is going on.

[Private to DM Ryan; Lady Jacqueline Raynelde: "Here, Lady Jacqueline, keep a look out, Help me hide (put away) this. Quick. Here put it away in my pack. I will go meet Adwonus if we need to keep him out of here."

I roll up the map and documents and put them safely within my bag once more. Or let Jacqueline put them in my bag, while I go talk to Adwonus.

I keep an eye and ear out while we look to see that no one was watching the map, while we looked at in an when I put it away.

{
02:56, Today: Secret Roll: Herr Johannes rolled 17 using 1d20. Move Silently Check, on the map; MQ.
02:56, Today: Secret Roll: Herr Johannes rolled 16 using 1d20. Hide Check, on the map; MQ.
02:55, Today: Secret Roll: Herr Johannes rolled 19 using 1d20+1. Listen Check, Situational Awareness; MQ.
02:55, Today: Secret Roll: Herr Johannes rolled 18 using 1d20+1. Spot Check, Situational Awareness; MQ.}
]

Dwalin sits and drinks ale while occasionally looking at the map, he's a bit lost in all this talking. After packing his things he sees adwonus enter the room, he walks over to speak to him"what are you doing here? Whats happened?"

[Private to DM Ryan: 07:31, Today: Secret Roll: Lady Jacqueline Raynelde rolled 18 using 1d20+3. Sense motive. Adwonus.
07:30, Today: Secret Roll: Lady Jacqueline Raynelde rolled 18 using 1d20+10. Slight of Hand. Tucking the map into my arm bracer out of sight.
07:30, Today: Secret Roll: Lady Jacqueline Raynelde rolled 19 using 1d20+8. Search Check.
07:29, Today: Secret Roll: Lady Jacqueline Raynelde rolled 26 using 1d20+8. Move Silently.
07:29, Today: Secret Roll: Lady Jacqueline Raynelde rolled 17 using 1d20+7. Listen Check.
07:29, Today: Secret Roll: Lady Jacqueline Raynelde rolled 21 using 1d20+7. Spot Check.
07:28, Today: Secret Roll: Lady Jacqueline Raynelde rolled 14 using 1d20+3. Knowledge Nobility/Royalty. On the map.
07:28, Today: Secret Roll: Lady Jacqueline Raynelde rolled 23 using 1d20+3. Knowledge Nature. On the map.
07:28, Today: Secret Roll: Lady Jacqueline Raynelde rolled 17 using 1d20+5. Knowledge Local. On the map.
07:28, Today: Secret Roll: Lady Jacqueline Raynelde rolled 9 using 1d20+3. Knowledge History. On the map.
07:27, Today: Secret Roll: Lady Jacqueline Raynelde rolled 20 using 1d20+8. Hide Check. Hiding the map in particular from Adwonus.
07:26, Today: Secret Roll: Lady Jacqueline Raynelde rolled 20 using 1d20+3. Appraise Check. On the map.]

Lady Jacqueline simply sits quietyly and sips from her water, eating what little she could from her bowl of soup. She listens to the song and then tucks herself into her own thoughts before Adwonus came inside. [Private to DM Ryan: In particular to the map, and then to see what Adwonus was up to.]
This message was last edited by the player at 12:37, Thu 08 Jan 2015.

Applause. The tavern filled with the sound of palms together as Imbellem ended on a C-Major and took a dramatic bow. Common folk tossed coins at his feet, clinking and bouncing on the wooden floor. Then the barkeep said, "My old tavern may be as clean as an elven arse, but it ne'er had such good tunes to match." He flicked a gold piece across the room with his thumb which Imbellem caught almost accidentally, his hand just being in the right place at the right time. The exceedingly buzzed (probably drunk) priest hiccuped with gratitude and scooped up his earnings. The table of adventurers applauded as well as he returned to his seat, merry and cheerful. [Private to Imbellem Tueri: You gained 1 gold piece, 2 silver pieces, and 7 copper pieces!]

Their third bowls of stew were empty, and the mugs of ale never seemed to be. Full, content, the adventurers were livened after their afternoon battle. They discussed their plans for the future, impending dangers, and unraveling the rest of these mysteries. [Private to Dwalin Grayhammer; Herr Johannes; Imbellem Tueri; Lady Jacqueline Raynelde; Mikael Vaeltaja; Taisiya Northwood: Huddled around the map, they glanced at the handful of other commoners in the room. Thankfully, most were happily occupied by their food and drink, paying no heed to the adventurers, not caring in the slightest. Mikaels gazed at the map and his eyes widened briefly, "Hey, these blue lines, they're-" "Yea!" Jacqueline interrupted, thinking the same thing, "they're- Oh sorry. You go ahead." "They look like Aqueduct lines." "Yea, that's what I was going to say." She traced her fingers along the thin blue markings. "The Aqueducts channel all of Herrod's drinking water from the river upstream and the inland aquifers. And it also carries all the waste and sewage out to into the sea. . . using different tunnels of course! In fact, I recently fell into one of those. . . but anyway." "The Aqueducts are massive. There's literally thousands of tunnels beneath Herrod, almost like a labyrinth. It'd make sense that Kelden would have his base down there. It'd be impossible to find unless you knew exactly where it was."

Herr Johannes gently felt the map's frayed edges, having seen considerable use in the care of its prior owner. He touched the blackened corner; the fire at the Boar's Tusk had almost destroyed it. "And what about the other markings? Know what they mean?" "Hmm. . . nope." Dwalin set down his mug and wiped away the droplets clinging to his beard. "They're probably just Biff's notes. This was his map after all." Johannes nodded, "I agree. We'll have to solve this puzzle, for this is the key to finding Kelden's base. I know we can do this." The table consented, nodded, and raised their drinks, prepared to go on a wild adventure.] [Private to Lady Jacqueline Raynelde: 'And that map's worth a few silver pieces' Jacqueline noted to herself. . . just in case she wanted the cash! She glanced up from the map and became lost in thought, wondering what her half-brother was up to, and her mother. Corelia. She'd almost forgotten that had been her last name, almost. It was an old house she remembered, going pack seven generations. . . a dying house. With no sons to carry the name, her mother had become Larlben, and even Jacqueline herself didn't use it any more. Family was a rare commodity, Jacqueline thought. Then she realized, there's still another side to it left, one she truly knows little about. Father's side. . . the pirate side.]

After an hour or so had passed, sun still high in the sky, the door to the tavern reopened with Adwonus standing in the frame. The party looked toward the door and squinted past the light. They were surprised to see him again so soon. Sunlight peaked through behind him, turning his unmistakable figure into a silhouette. "We need to talk. . ."

Roleplaying Experience
Dwalin: Gained 10 XP
Herr Johannes: Gained 36 XP
Lady Jacqueline: Gained 20 XP
Adwonus: Gained 32 XP
Taisiya: Gained 20 XP
Mikael: Gained 17 XP
Imbellem: Gained 34 XP


It had been a long time since the adventurers set foot out of the castle and into a strange, new world. Beginning with a quest from Lord Steyus himself, they had met his spymaster face to face, traveled across the city and its Twin Bridges, and experienced the riots firsthand. They had witnessed the assassination of Biff and seen for themselves the tension of the people, how close they are on the brink chaos. They had met Marcus Larblen, who was no more than a stranger at the time, and soon after, Celus and Riene. Lady Jacqueline rediscovered her family and past, and the party had gained a direction, only to have both suddenly change with Celus' death and the collapse of the Larlben faction. But then they encountered open battle in the streets as things come closer and closer to the end. Sides were chosen, and their future was chosen as well. Rebels were triumphant, gaining a stronghold right in the middle of the city. Soon, things will become more desperate, even more violent, as the conflict bursts into the public eye. Tomorrow, attacks from both sides are coming, an inevitable clash of sides, and the group of adventurers know that the victor will be decided by them, they who hold the necessary keys to all the doors, the weight to tip the scale in either direction. But there are doubts. Although many shadows and secrets have been dispersed, some still remain. And these shadows are patient, intelligent, always one step ahead. The question is, 'Who will rule Herrod when the smoke settles, and for all chapters to follow?'

You will decide and witness the exciting conclusion in The Shadows of Herrod: Part 3! Coming this February.


This message was last edited by the GM at 17:39, Thu 08 Jan 2015.