The  Group moves  through the day. The roads  are a wee bit  better then they have been used to. Gravel and  rocks have been pounded into the  roads to  keep them from being Muddy. Now  and then   they will see  a chain Gang of Prisoners using sledgehammers  and Large  wooden squares to  pound the rocks  flatter.

 Now and then a Rider , in the Uniform of the Ironmound regulars  rides past. The markings on his saddlebags, highlights him as a Messenger.

  Kree Calls the Outrifders  into the group so they can go though the Checkpoint together.

 the Checkpoint stands about 100 yards  from the Main...land..gates. Two Booths are set up and   troopers check papers  and ask questions ..logging in  Merchants ect ect.

  Kree said to the group,Once we get in the  Gates,  we head towards the   western river gate Garrison, that is were we can pick up the rest of out bounty.  they move closer as some  wagons begin to move forward,..Then we go to the Walk The Plank. You can stay there for a Gold a piece, for as long as we are in town...if you wish? You make seek other Lodgings, but beware..prices will be steeper, and..you will not be as protected  from our enemies. Once  we settles in..we have a Task at hand..to find the names of the traitors   that need to die...I have taken the Liberty..  he looks at Riku,...to call in a favor or two...I am hoping this  aids us...

Kree looks at Riku and for some it would make them feel like they were being pegged.  For Riku, it was key noted of his intentions.

On it, she said quickly.

Luthien paused a moment...

"I may be able to help you find them. Most every faith considers such treachery an evil...such darkness will stand out rather clearly. If you find suspects, I could help with that."

They can lie, but they won't be able to hide the dark taints on their souls.

Justin notes the exchange tweenst Kree and the fairy.

Laithia becomes more and more tense the closer they get to Ironmound. Even Navarre senses his mistresses distress as the gates to the city loom up ahead. If Foril is riding with Laithia again, she will turn to him over her shoulder and invite him over. "I have a place here though it is not very big. You are welcome to stay with me if you life. I have an extra bed! Reedrick was able to get me the little place since I spent so much time here. It will be nice to see it again!" she says trying to keep her tone light and easy. In reality, she was afraid to go alone. She was not sure who or what she would find waiting for her and at least with someone else there it might not be so bad.

"I will be staying at my place Kree. It is right by the Walk the Plank. I should at least check in and straighten it up a bit. I sort of left in a hurry last time and I know the place is a disaster. Hopefully I will not bring any trouble upon us," her thoughts turn to Carwyn wondering how he faired with his vile wife Calise. She was sure it had not been good but she hoped their night of fun was worth whatever punishment he had received.

He tried to put reassuring hands on bith the woman and her horse, "How long were you gone from here Laithia?  If this woman was bitter and wealthy, she may have put some rather unpleasant warding or mundane traps on your place... expecting you to return sometime and not tell her or her husband.  I'd also suggest you be careful if you see the fellow.  She may also be using him as a method to catch you... even if he says they have broken up.  I just want you careful and safe until things have been investigated so we know just where -safe- is."

However she wanted to run her life... he would advise for safety.  He wanted to move relatively slowly with their relationship, if there was any more than friends... he didn't want them to get tripped up trying to run to the next levels.  It was lives after all, not a game that could be won sooner by rushing things.  "I'm more than happy to lend what magic I have, in degrees, to anyone else who needs it."

    Kree watched as they Got  closer to the Booths, He  handed the Fellow   the charter, and the  fellow  double checked the charters, , Looking at the charter, the man  began to ask Kree about   certain names, Kree would reply,..Dead....on a Mission...At the Village...dead....Dead...Retired, but on recall....

 The Sgt Nods  and waves them through, Once they get  further  away from the Booth, and Closer to the  ...ever growing..walls of the City,...we  will need  all the skills will have to find One person in this  City...however...I am hoping we find those who are working with  him/her  as well...each one of thier  deaths, will send a message....

 The seen was  worse, at the Main Gate. People  going  through one  side , to leave the city...have their charters  checked, Goods ect ect. Yhose Going in went through the same deal. Though Ironmound  was a free City, anyone  from North of the Mountain, better have a good reason for being here...

In reply to donsr (msg # 7):

Justin chins at the line exiting the city Double security such doth suggest somett be amis

  Kree chuckles,..they  make note of everyone  cming and going...do they get them all?...no..the ships do not get checked  as often, the  side door in the Orc's  Section, is not checked at all, Save By Orc Guards, who kill anyone  they feel is a slaver.....This may be a free city? But that freedom comes at a price...

Laithia turns to look at Foril over her shoulder. Her expression is slightly guarded as they ride through the first check point. "Its been about a year since I have been here. I do not think she would do anything to my place. That is not like her. Its too private. She would call me out in front of a crowd of people calling me a homewrecker. She loves the drama! No she will find me at a public place and make a scene if she wants to do something," there is a hint of melancholy in her voice as she takes a deep steadying breath.

"To have your help and presence would be greatly appreciated. I cannot think you enough for just being here and listening," she says with a smile.

Diana takes her turn at the checkpoint.  Once done, she will walk her horse into the city, and wait for the others, and go from there.

Riku for probably the first time, flies down to the ground and looks at the guards ankles and knees with rather ease.  She looks up at the guard and his "note-taking" capabilities and duty.

Riku Key, she said, her arms readily on her hips as if that should indicate she was someone special.  When she sees the guard finally take notice, she takes to the air again finding Kree.

Need some shoulder companion for this...meeting, she said.

  Kree nods to the Gate  as they walk through, the Gurads Noting their  Arrow  pins, a Corpral marking down their NAme s again,on a parchment. The Corporal Looks  at  the Group and says,..Who is  in charge of  this....this..Rabble?.

  Ivy Groans,..just one time..I would like there  NOT...to be an Idiot at the gate!

 Kree Steps Up tot he Corporal, he bumps him with his Bow,  the ink from  the holder of his  Noteboard  splashes...why you Long Eared....

 Corporal!..At Ease....This Is CAptain Quickshadow..Of the Crimson Arrows.... A LT with a wide  grin, Half elf  Male, offers his hand to  Kree.Well met. My Friend...kill anything worth killing?

 Kree Smiles,..Antok?  I thought they sent you to the  Ironwood Forest to garrison  there?

  Antok shook his head,..they thought about  it. But some  Noble's son needed to get some battles  under him, so they let him lead the  replacements out there...

 ..we managed to do some damage to a slaver Ring...Killed alot of Cats..and some Humans on the Tou..almost had a ship..but...it caught fire...

 The Corporal finally wiped the ink from  the page and his  cuff..but the Uniform was going to need cleaned.

  Antok's Face lost it smile  as he said,..I need you and Your Group to  come with me...my friend...it appears..the Emperor wishes to speak to you...

 Kree didn't even have to look around, to Know there were  Ironmound Regulars closing in  around them,..I am to assume...it cannot wait?


 Sorry, My Friend..I do home  we can allow you to walk in?..I would ahte to lose troopers, Just to being you in for a Chat?

   Looking at he ground a moment. Kree looks at his people then says to Antok,..we keep our  weapons...we do not walk in, without our  weapons. If we cannot keep them, then  his  Highness will have to come out to the courtyard...

 The Corporal snaps, How Dare You....

 Antok shakes his head,Aye....Your weapons  and such can be kept...after all...you will be in the palace..the Emperor  is a highly skilled Mage, and  there are some 300  elite troopers  , just in that building..not to mention the Royal Guard..so..I think he is safe enough..Hmmm?

 Turning   and Moving into the City, He turns to his right, Heading  down the  wide avenue that will lead to the road of Kings...so..it  appears you upgraded  your group abit?..alot of Pretty faces...

  why..thank you Antok..but i told you before..I like  the ladies...

With interest Justin noted the exchange, between the corporal and his Captain. Relieved that there was at least one in the regulars that a partiality to the Arrows. When Lieutenant Antok mentioned a chat with the Emperor, several possibilities sprang to mind, prompting him to quietly pray to Eta for a favourable outcome to the discussion and subsequent adventure.
This message was last edited by the player at 05:13, Sun 13 Mar 2016.

Riku narrows her eyes at the slimey bloke pretending to be a guard.  She crosses her arms and speaks loud enough for Kree and Ivy, per chance Justin to hear...  Can I, please?  Pretty please.  I can make him have pleasant dreams until I run out...

Diana noted the corporal's response, and just shook her head.  There was always one somewhere, it seemed.  That idiot non-com who thought, just because you weren't in the military that he was above you.

At the mention of going before the Emperor, Diana got a bit nervous.  She wasn't fond of going before royalty.  But since there was no choice, there was no choice.  It was, what it was.

So, she went along.  However, she was going to be ready for anything.

In reply to Riku Key (msg # 15):

Best for Thee to ask yon corporal; for if he hath issue t'wouldst place Thee in a precarious situation.

Laithia listened to the exchange between Kree and the guards. The emperor?! Ugh! All she wanted to do was check out her small place to see what damage that dumb slut may have done! Well ok maybe she was the slut but if she had put out...well...none of this would have happened!

As Antok mentioned pretty faces and Kree responded with his dry wit, Laithia let out a sigh. "Are we going to have to stay long? I really need to check out my place! I sort of left in a hurry and I actually do have items that I like and hope did not fall into someone elses hands," she says to Antok eyeing the half elf as she waits for his response. She had a feeling he did not have an answer but it made her feel better to voice her question out loud even if it were left unanswered.

Luthien, on the other hand...

Well, Tra may be a huntress...

But Luthien was still a Knight, of strength and honor, of the sacred honor. He had no fear to be in front of royalty. Those such as he could usually find a place in court, at least temporarily.

"I will accompany you to the Imperial meeting, if you wish."

  The elf  Turned to his  people as they walked  down the Ave stopping  once more at the Inner  Main  Gates, those  gates were opened as the  Captain of the Gate Crew signaled...and the agtes  opened up to the  huge  throngs of  People, tourists, merchants, and citizens, mixed with a  Very generous helping of Ironmound Regulars, City watch, or  marching Sailors.

 On either side of the Gates were the  Compounds  for the  Main Gate Guard....Beggars Corner  was on the   Southwest corner,  of   the Avenue known as  Northeast way ( on the  other side of the  Draw bridge that was to the North of them, the Ave was called North-East Way)

  Kree stopped at  the Beggars  Corner, his eyes  studied the  men, women and children there. He went up to a Youngish Lad who had a Bronze bowl. The Bowl told of his standing in the beggar's Guild.

  Kree dropped a  Silver into the Bowl and  whispered  something to the lad. The  Lad  snatched the  coin from the bowl, before  the noised of it hitting stopped..He nodded to Kree  and took
  Off  to the North...heading towards the Drawbridge,

  Now...before  them..heading  straight to the East, the broad  stone road called the Road  of Kings Lead to the huge fortress, that was  the palace...the  fortress, was only dwarfed, by the  'mound'..that Ironmound  was named for, that stood  off ot the North east, closer to the River Storm. Trees were thick on the northern side of the  road...to south, where some very well built Mansions, some had flags   or Pennants of the Nobles who lived there...Further to the South, many tress could be seen, though it  was also easy to see , there  were roads  cut through them, Man Spires and Bulb like  tops, peeked over those trees...My Holy Friends? to the South  and West are the 'learning' areas of Ironmound, Libaries ..Sages ..the Sage Guild,  Mages, shops that cater to magic, from Nature, or from the gods...many a Temple are built there..and they rival most you could think of...

  Antok Buckled the straps  of his  sword and adjusted the Helmet he wore as they Neared the  Palace.  A Stone  wall with a double gate was guarded, by Royal Guard, thet lead them  to a drawbridge over the  50 foot moat.

  With a Chuckle kree said,..That is the way to do it, Antok. Pretty yourself  up for the Emperor...

 One of the Troopers  snapped,..still your  Tongue, you sell-sword Elf..or  I'll...

 SHUT UP....Trooper..and imagine what your threat was...except, that you are on your knees watching your entrails spill out...

 Ivy Chuckled  and shook his head..the trooper was dumbfounded by the Elf's sharp order.

 ..Ah...Kree?  Seems you still have   your  Old Habits   as  a Captain of the guard? Some skills never fail....still do not know why you left....

 ...I left , because i hated  seeing the darkness creeping into out lives, while  we paraded in pretty uniforms, pretending we could fight... I would wager...right here...right now?...Your  troops would all be dead, and at least half  mine would live, should we battle..here and now...

 ..oh...i don't know , Kree..these are Royal Guardsmen....

 ..and?...My people are Arrows....if your  people were better then mine?...we would not  be  walking   down these road...

  The troopers  looked at each other   and then to Antok, expecting him to speak up for them...Antok just shrugged,...fair enough...

Luthien, meanwhile, was not about to give the troopers any backtalk. He had better things to do...like changing his mind from the band he'd been part of, to the more genteel training he'd originally had when he was younger as a Paladin.

"Fear not, my friend...I'll not offend the Emperor."

He of course can't speak for any but himself. Though a servant of the Hunt, he was still a Knight, and would go in wearing his shining armor and holy symbols proudly.

Diana shook her head at the "pissing" contest.  Why was it males always seemed need such a thing?  There seemed to be a rivalry between Kree and Atok.  Not that it really mattered to her.  Things were tense enough, without anyone else causing trouble.

"Excuse me, but would you two like to be alone together?" She said, half serious.
"I'm sure the Emperor would be happy to deal with us, after the two fo you have done your ... thing." She said.

  Antok and Kree looked at each other...both rather sternly, then  began to chuckle.

  The  Gate Captain Nodded to Anotk  and the   Gates opened. Any who would  look would note several crossbows, and  a pair of  Robed figures  watched them, as they crossed the drawbridge...the Gate  opened there as well, ans  many...many Royal Guardsman came to the edges of the road, to watch the group enter the  First  curtain of the Palace's walls....turning to the right, they walled along the walls   until they came to another  Gate that was opened, above that gate  was  grille with  spots  for  boiling  oil  and such to be tilted over, should the need  ever arise.

  The group turned left for  another  500 or so yards   and entered another GAte, Much like the Last.

  from here, they entered the  courtyard. some residences where hear, mostly high ranking officers, or non-coms that didn't rate a room in the palace.

  Antok turned to the riders,...You will leave your  horse  with the Groomsmen, they will care for them as you  meet with the Emperor...

 Groomsmen with the livery of the crown stepped up to take the reins from the  riders, and Antok Grinned at Kree,...you ready?

 The elf  shrugged,..i have no  worries..after  all..he summoned  us for aid...not the other way around. One  would think, He would be ...more inclined to win our favor...as our book is pretty full....

  Antok's smile  Faded, but he said nothing  , and lead the  way  through the Great doors  of the Palace.
This message was last edited by the GM at 17:57, Sun 12 May 2013.

The closer he got to a courtly presence, the more Luthien's old training reasserted itself. He carried himself straighter, threw his shoulders back, and started to look more and more like he belonged.

Having not been to this part of the kingdom ever before, she took in the sights and made key notes of various aspects of the castle and its guards.

She was rather curious why the Emperor beckoned the Arrows before him, however, it could simply be he wished the elven cousins more so than the Arrows as a whole.  Either way, she walked slightly above the group sight-seeing and overlooking the group in a respective, but protective manner.

As Laithia turns Navarre over to the grooms, she smiles saying in a bright voice, "watch out! He bites!"

Taking the large stallion by the muzzle she kisses it before commanding him to behave. The horse actually looks quite sad at this but nods his massive head giving Laithia and Foril goodbye nuzzles.

As she follows the group, Laithia becomes more and more tense. She draws into herself as she ponders what this meeting is about. The emporer had more important things to deal with than one elf accused of adultery. Calise's dad may have power in the city but Laithia doubted it was this much. Plus why would the whole group be called in? She would have been called in alone. No this had something else to do with the Arrows as a whole. Still, her body was tense as her nails dug into her palms, thin lines of blood leaking out as she had to remind herself to breath. When she did breath, it was ragged and hard as her eyes had a panicked look in them like a trapped animal. She just wanted this over with...soon!

  The  Group , lead  by Antok and Kree walk through the double doors. The Arrows  are 'herded' into the middle and Antok's  unit  walks  down the  the sides... unlike the Arrows, they have their weapons  drawn.

  A Colonel of the Royal Guards   steps up and is ready to say  something to Antok,..before you delay us any longer?..none of us are giving up our weapons....if we cannot be  seen Inside  with them?  His Highness will have to come down to the  Walk-the Plank and speak...

  The Colonel  Gives  Kree a Hated look, but  stiffly Nods, Kree smiles  as he said,..Colonel now?...Good thing  I left..i did not know things  were so bad...

 Antok looked  down hiding  a smile as he motioned  for everyone to  keep walking.

  The sounds of   Lutes  and Mandolins  echo, and  grow  Louder. The Door men look at each other  as Antok waves them to Open the door...a footman rushes  in..the  music  stops  just as the door opens.

  Antok's sword   lays against Kree's  chest to stop the advance of the Group...some 50-60 people dressed in finery from every  City and Land of the  Empire look back, and  are herded  off the    Main floor..there is  a Buzz of conversation as they see the Ragged  group.

  The Footman  Motions  for Antok to come forward,..you know the drill...wait until i wave you forward.

 Kree looks back to check on everyone  as he nods. the only show of annoyance is the tapping  of his left index finger  against the bow he holds.

  When Antok finally Reaches the   Throne, he bows  and speaks with the Emporer,  the Buzz grows  louder as  the words those  by the throne hear and pass down.

   Antok Nods  and Turns  as he says  in a LOud  Voice, Emporer Lod? I Present  , Captain Quickshadow and  his Unit of  Crimson Arrows.... He waves the forward,

 Kree looks over his shoulder,...relax...be  proud..they need us...act like it....

 Walking  down the  middle of the Polished  floor. The elves   do not make a sound...when the  reach the Dias the Footman whispers "...bow.."

  Kree and Ivy do not.

In reply to donsr (msg # 27):

Intrigued as to why such a person as an Emperor would call this ad-hoc body of Crimson Arrows before him. Justin noted the path they were lead, behaviour and attitude of the guardsmen and any they met. Once inside the Palace, standing before the Emperor, Justin was surprised at the Captains demeanour and attitude. For himself he cared not for the traditions of any mortal beings, as his service, obedience and acquiescence was to Eta; as such he followed the Captains lead and nodding to the Emperor in a courtly manner then to the other officials.
This message was last edited by the player at 06:03, Mon 13 May 2013.

 As the group walked across the floor, towards the emperor, Laithia saw a face, in the  crowd to the left. She was dressed  Gaily, in a very low  cut gown, Her arm was entwined with  a  ( by his uniform rank) , a Captain in the Ironmound  Navy...thus far the woman did not seem to notice her.

    Justin, Riku  and Luthien would notice, 4 High ranking Clerics ( by their  over-the-top robes and guilded  weapons)... One, was   Of Alpower, 1 of Trall, 1 of Gorr and  a woman of Lenus.

 It was not hard, for those  of  The Art, to pick out Magelings who had ( or pretended to have) power. One thing they did have, for certain, was coin. Their  MAge robes and sacthels, and  hats were glittering in the candle lights, as well as from the Light that showed through the ornate  stained  glass  windows  that circled the top of the room.

Riku noticed the other Clerics around the room.  She looked at Kree for a few moments when he made the comment of being proud.

That's not a problem, she said. Not for me at least.

She gave him a plain smile.

Laithia noticed the woman luckily before she saw her. Without drawing any attention, she gradually moves so that Foril offers her a buffer. Moving a bit closer to him, her voice is strained as she whispers to him, "she is here! I was hoping she would not be and who she is with was not who I slept with. I wonder what happened to Carwyn. I really hope she did not do something to him." There is a little sadness in her voice as she stays close to the other elf as they follow the group along.

Luthien, of course, followed all etiquette and protocols as if he'd done this before. Because he has. Even though Kree was off doing his 'proud' thing, Luthien was more intent on being reasonably respectful. This was a man of power and prestige, after all.

And while it was true that he, as a Knight, owed allegiance to Tra, most of all, it was possible for mortals to earn respect, and one called an Emperor must have earned respect of some sort.

He did not speak until spoken too, for that too was protocol.

The instruction to be presentable struck reflexes ingrained into Foril.  His back straightened and his shoulders moved back with near military precision.  His robes and bearing would now likely make him relatively easy to hide behind.  "Me too..." he offered to Laithia, "I've known a few who would leap at a chance to improve their standing, but only a very few to make evil on others for it back home.  Then again formal unions were rare among my people.  It usually took two or three children and living together for some twenty years before unions were formed." Of course he was barely whispering, but imagined she could pick it out next to him.
This message was last edited by the player at 14:03, Mon 13 May 2013.

Rolf follows along, striving for patience.  On the hunt, he could sit still in the bush for hours until his prey came into sight, but he had found this did not translate well to the trappings of noble society.  Not that he walked with concern for he had done nothing to cause concern.  If a man didn't stand up for the rightness of his actions, then he wasn't much of a man.

Rolf does find the endless posturing by their esteemed leader tiresome though.  Why he seemed to feel the need to bluster about was beyond Rolf.  Still, he was glad that the captain had taken his stance on the weapons.  Rolf would not have liked walking into this den of hyena's without his trusty blade near at hand.

Looking at those about, even the warriors, Rolf saw little to impress him.  Armor that looks more a costume than something a man would wear into battle; outfits that reflected those who wore them, soft, supple and lacking in decency; the house itself was a monument to those looking to shore up their own flailing egos...

Allowing himself only a faint look of disapproval, Rolf crosses his arms about his chest and waits to hear what this lordling had to say.

Laithia breathes a sigh of relief as Foril as well as a few others seem to take on a more regal air to them. Like Kree and Ivy, Laithia remains completely unimpressed and merely nods at the emperor when it is time to greet him. The normally carefree elf is tense though as she stands next to Foril, her hair falling to cover her face as she stands so close to the other elf that her body is pressed against his.

"Here people enter into unions far too quickly. There must be a happy inbetween, not taking too long but long enough to make sure the union is stable," she says softly her voice lie Foril's so soft that only he could hear her.

  Emporer Lod stood as those who Bowed...bowed. And Noted with a smile  that Kree and Ivy did not. He  rose  from his Throne, Nelk Lod was the ..."student" Emperor...his Granfather was a well known warrior, that helped tame the lands , and entered into the alliance with the  Dwarves and Elves.....Nelk's Father was the 'Merchant' Emperor..his  way with deals and building the NAvies, spread  Ironmound's influence up and down the River Storm, and even to the Seas around Laynak....Nelk..was a Mageling, and  a Sage...he spent almost as much time in book, as he did in parties....

  CAptain Kree?  You do not deem me worth a Bow? his smile  was humorous  and  titters from around the  room made him look about  and  smile. His  Blonde hair  , hug in long curls as he then Nodded to Kree to speak.

 ..Your Highness.... I am  Captain Quickshadow of the  Crimson Arrows. A company whose sword are free, but..in time of Battle, would aid  Ironmound  and her allies...I...am Also..Clan Razorhawk, of the Black Timber....we are your allies...not your subjects....Black Timber Elves  Bow...to no one...

 His eyes  darted over to some elves  dressed in Light armor, Horseman by Trade, and their  shoulder patches  MArked them as Elves from Ironwood. The Youngest amoung them Briistled at Kree's look, but one of the older elves put a HAnd on his shoulder, and shook his  head...the Older elf, did not once, to Kree.

  Nelk smiled, seemingly entertained  By Kree's words...Well Spoken...and...are you not? The Kree Quickshadow, who was once a LT, in the Royal Guard?


  ..Aye...Your highness...but i left, when it became more Important to move up the ranks, and garner your favor, then rid the lands of the darkness that threatens it....

  There was Grumbles  from around the room, a few women's voices muttering  'how DARE he!'...One Lone  clap was heard, from near the Throne. A Dwarven  General, is armor shined, and his metals in place, but the armor had seen , many a battle, the arms that clapped, were  well muscled...the iron gray beard and hair of the Dwarf showed his age, But his Voice  was loud  and sharpe, but  rumbled  like  a cave in....and this...is why the Dwarves of  The Iron Mound...will fight  side by side  with the Elves of the Black Timer...Their bows shoot straight...and true...as do their  words...


  Nelk Grinned and Nodded as he  turned back to the Dwarf, then back to the Arrows,well said, General Axehammer..Indeed...My family has  had very good relations, with the Black Timber Elves... he waves his hand before him as he smiles and says, Please?  Captain Quickshadow?...will you introduce me to your people?

  Kree nodded his ehad, he began with Ivy and went   his way through, saving the  three Holy Warriors  for last, since  ( in his mind) they were more  Courtly-people.

  When his hand Motioned to Laithia..there was a Gasp, from  the side..as the woman heard her name...a look of anger, and shock on her face.

Laithia stood tall and proud as her name was announced. She was not about to appear humble or docile though she really wanted to avoid any commotion. When she heard the gasp, Laithia's eyes did not waver from the Emperor's as she once more nodded to him in greeting. The only one who was privy to her discomfort was Foril, whose arm was being squeeze by rather strong fingers. When she realized what she was doing, her hand immediately relaxed but there was still a tension the elf could feel due to their close proximity.

Foril smiled softly... he would have been glad had he known he was not considered courtly.  He would have been upset that the rather antisocial elf had considered any of them courtly.  It was after all almost an insult if Kree considered people fit for polite society given his interactions so far with others.  As it was he was content to be in the middle of the pack of names, easily overlooked, especially with the little outburst from... whatever the poor wreck of a woman's name was that Laithia had offended such time ago.

He would neglect to mention that sparkling clothes was generally a simple glamor that did little other than make you a target for enemy arrows.  Part of the reason Foril took to knives.  People tended to want to keep knives out of their backs, but other than that didn't give such a priority when it came to defeating them in combat.  Then came the explosions of light, fire, and frost that made enemies particularly more vulnerable to those knives later.

This was promising to shape into an interesting event non-the-less.

Luthien only nodded again when introduced.

"Your Imperial Majesty."

And having done the formal terms of address, he simply fell silent again, as befits a Knight of the Order.
This message was last edited by the player at 05:44, Tue 14 May 2013.

When presented to the Emperor Justin nodded respectfully addressing him appropriatley Your Imperial Majesty

When Diana was introduced, she gave a polite nod, and nothing else.  She certainly felt somehat uncomfortable in the current surroundings.  She wasn't fond of politics, or the pomp and circumstance that went with it.
silently, she just hoped this thing would move along, and they could get to the point of them being summoned quickly.

  The Emperor  motioned with a Hand  for Kree to step  up on the step he was standing. The Elf Looked at Ivy who shrugged and nodded  quickly. Kree took a step  up. more then a few guards stepped forward , with  an armed 'outlander' stepping so near their leader.

 Axe Hammer   waved them back as he stood near  Nelk , his hand rested on the  half of a Glittering  hammer.

 how many here...know of the Arrows..Hmmm? Nelk looked around the   large room his head inclined  so it looked as if he was staring down his nose.

   afew  people..some half-dozen raised their hands...5 men and One woman who wiggled her fingers at Ivy...who wiggle his back.

 ..Ahh..so...some education then.... he put his  arm around Kree's shoulder, which made more folks gasp and  mutter...the  sound of the mumbles rippling through the  room...Captain Kree..is the Leader  of one of the sevreral Units Of Crimson Arrows...they have a ...home..in Ironmound, and are Based, as a whole, in the Blacktimber forest...this....group..is made up  of Elves, for the most part, but many a freed slave, retired  warrior, or...adventurers down on thier  luck, have joined up.


..They have Often done bidding, that  Ironmound forces  could not do...for sack of politics..and...always seem to get the job down...no matter the cost.

  Kree's Father... he looks over at Kree,..I  may call you Kree..Aye?... without waiting for an answer....is Now the Lead Elder of the  Razorhawk Clan, the largest of the elven villages in the Black Timber..which...makes   Krell the leader of the largest group of Elves in Laynak...thus....Kree is now Consider the Third  Elder of his tribe....

 he waves his  hands  at some of the perplexed looks,..lets us  say...Prince? Hmmm?

 Kree, was..for once..at a Loss for words, Nelk  gave him a slight  Hug,..seems the High Elder was killed ..yestereve...some Cat folk were stalking the Blacktimber looking for  some stray Elfmaids...instead ,t he found the First elder and a band of archers...from what we have been told the Cat folk lost have their  company, but two of the Archers survived, and kept the  elven bodies from being taken...


  ..I bring this to your attention..because you now have some...authority...went it comes to your actions  against the  foes of the state....and..in that vien? We have  needs of your group...

 Ivy whispers aloud,annnnddd..there it is....

 Nelk smiled and bowed his head slightly to Ivy,Indeed..Master  Nightblade..indeed....two days  ago..a ship from Mouri was sailing towards  Ironmound with the Priincess Dala and her escorts...they were bringing  some Tax monies, as well as goods to sell...the ship was hit by pirates, somewhere between   the Orre River and Ironmound...it was taken and sailed back to the fork...and up the Widow River...troops on foot who had seen the battle passed word through mages and sages... and hit the Pirate ship escort  as well as the  Vessel from Mouri....it went  aground near the Top of the Furman's chain...word has it, that  some sailors  and the Princess are trying to go down the furman's chain and reach Olant...so they may sail back to here..and we  might provide them passage back home.  We need your Group...to head to Olant...and see if you might find them, befoe the Forces  of Hargen do?

   I...well...We shall take a ship to Olant, and se what we might be able to do....we have some small busniess in the city..with luck? we will leave no later, the mid-of-day

 splended!...now? I wish for you all to enjoy some of the foods here, and stay..perhaps an Hour?..it  will do the people good?..and... he smiles at the people around him as he says...the stern voice looking  out nover the gather courtly people....please try not to kill too many of them, should they...be...insulting? Hmmmm?

 He motions the  Arrows to the sideboards, saying,Come, good People, Meet the Arrows...and? If  any of the arrows  have any questions, Please..do not be shy, in approaching me...

 Kree frowned as he stepped down, Ivy was already half-way to the wine table, He looked at the waterclock  in the northeast corner...'one hour'..gods..it would be a long one...

In reply to Nelk Lod (msg # 42):

Justin took the earliset oppourtunity to express his condolances to Kree for his recent loss after which he sought out the High Priest of Thall greeting him respectfully If One may Devout of Thall he paused then continued One hath pledged to deliver word from Devout Gren Jord, to the temple of Thall, ast Thee be here wouldst Thee be willing to hear such.Justin asked

  The High Priest of Thrall  bows slightly to Justin . He listens to the Message and  nods...Thank You, Brother of Eta..it is good to know that the Temple still thrives, out there in the wilds...

In reply to Justin (msg # 44):

Justin nods once more if the high priest has nothing to add or ask he thanks the HP and returns to the Arrows

  Ivy is drinking  wine and nibbling on some sort of bird meat, while a few of the Ladies talk to him, touching his bow  , or blade, asking him for  stories and if he thought Human women were as good looking as Elven women.

 Some of them  men approached  Rolf, and asked him where he was from and what types of  enemies  his people had there.

 Luthien is  Greeted  by a pair of  sages, a young  man and woman, who ask him questions, on how he got tangled up with the Arrows. Diana and  Liathia  have  men and women coming to them asking them about their adventures  and what its like  fighting  for a living.

 Kash has a 'well fed' Mage motion for him to come over and talk with him.

 Foril is studied by some of the Men, as if gauging his path in life.

 Riku is approached  by  many of the younger people, asking her about her people, and what part she plays in the Arrows.

  Antok hands  Kree a glass of wine,..I would guess, You are extremely full of yourself  at this Moment...  his smile  fails to hide the affront he feels.

  Kree takes a sip of  wine, he  holds it up in the Direction of the Colonel. The  Colonel's eyes  narrow as he bows slightly to Kree, then turns and heads out of the room....for once..Antok?..You have the right of it....i saw looks of Distain, on most of the folks here..for me and my people....now? they are fawning all over them...why?...not because of the slaves  we freed, or foes we killed...but because the Emperor gave us his favor.... he nods once more , his eyes  watching the people as they move  from Arrow to Arrow, shaking hands, Talking to them with wide smiles, or...just listening with wide eyes,i wager to say..the biggest battle  most folks in here saw? was a fight with thier tailor, on the cost of goods...


 Before Antok  could answer.. Axehammer  comes up behind  Kree wedging himself between the two, ye got a damn good eye, Elf...most of thee folks have coin to give the crown...or have thier hands in some kind of business , that can aid  our army or navy...so  they come here..bow and scrape..they ain't anybetter then the slaves you free..in fact..they be worse...'cause they be makin' themselves slaves....Slaves to power..or to fame..even if its just second hand...

When the emperor was done, Diana went to get something to eat.  She was partially intrigued by what he had to say, and the "job" at hand.  Yet, she suspected there was more to the story.  There always seemed to be.

But, for the moment, she put those thoughts out of her mind.  She took the house to eat and drink.  She didn't really socialize, unless someone came up to her.  Then  she was polite, yet, distant.

When it was time to go, she was the second one out the door, happy the whole thing was done.  Although, truth be told, she had slipped some meat into her pockets.  Some habits, it seemed died the hart way.

She was glad to get away from the presence of the Emperor, and all that pomp and circumstance.  She walked her horse out of the castle, and once free, mounted, and got ready to leave.

Riku was a bit taken aback by the abundance of attention she was getting.  Not that she didn't mind it, just surprised her that so many would be so curious about her nature and upbringing.  It never took her surprise though about her part in the Arrows.

Well, she said, working her way around the room to sit on a perch high enough she could see everyone and everyone could easily see her.  It just so happens I came upon them and helped them fight some big bad guy.  Just seemed appropriate to get pulled in by these folks.  I don't, nor my people, don't live much differently than elves or humans.  Though on a much more smaller capacity and housing.  We probably don't each much either, but when we do, we could give a halfling a run for their money during one of our feasts.

Luthien was quite respectful with the sages, and answered their questions as befits a Knight, with honesty and dignity.

His reasons for joining the Arrows weren't by any means standard, after all, but they suited him and his deity well, so he remained.

Foril's smile hadn't left as he could sense the men trying to decide what to make of him.  That was how he liked it.  If they weren't friends, they were to be as confused as possible, because it would take them longer to react.  This confusion was relatively useless against dumb animals, but that was fair enough in Foril's mind.  He had nothing against dumb animals.  They rarely crossed eachother.  It was sentient peoples that were far more dangerous.

"Laithia... I do believe a number of these men are plotting various ways they hope to get you off my arm, I suppose that at least for the moment you are a free woman.  I'd fight to keep you that way.  I've no interest in any diversions this place is displaying, but I'll not keep you from your diversions if you like.  Should you think of leaving me altogether, I do suggest that I can make better drinks than anyone else here save perhaps the good dwarf, but I bet he wouldn't spit my drinks out.  Given a proper establishment to serve from at least."

Then he looked out among the others and offered, "I hail from a land where we keep demons in cushions to rest our feet on -and keep them warm thusly.  There's always a cool breeze but never frost, even when there is snow in its season.  We have magic as you seem to have trouble... and I am a specialist at removing trouble because of it."  None of it was a lie, though some of it might perhaps be a slight exaggeration.  These kinds rarely wanted truth more than entertainment anyhow.

  Kree talked a bit  with Axehammer, then   walked away from Antok, thinking of refilling his wine. Several men tried to enagage him in conversation. he  just smiled, slightly, and kept  walking. He did  stop to chat with a woman or two. They left...slightly embarrassed, as he talked to them, as if they were mere children.

  An olderman, wearing the  uniform of a Naval Officer, finally cornered him at sideboard, where Ivy was holding court with  various women who seemed to hang on the Hansome  elf's words..

 ..Captain Kree? Do you have a ship...to use for this undertaking?

 Kree looked at the fellow, an eyebrow raised...not yet? Why do you ask...um....Commander?

  Commander Jol Lusk..Retired, Ironmound Navy....if  have a few ships...still love to sail..sometimes  go hunting pirates with  Mercs....But...in the docks, near your Inn?..is the  Savage Queen..she's a schooner. fast..a crew you can trust..its yuours  for this Mission..if you want it?

 ..and why is that?..You know there is a good  chance..you will never see the  ship again?

 Aye....but..the schooner is known, for being a slaver's vessel, and  with the  word passed on to the River Navy?...It may aid you in reaching Olant, and getting word on the whereabouts , of  a certain missing princess...

Laithia smiled at those trying to garner attention from her. She passed a word here or there but seemed to not care much as her and Foril navigated to where there was food and drink. Helping herself, she turned giving him a strange look for a moment or two. When he talked about demons, Laithia let out a sigh as she took a drink of the wine she had procured herself.

"You company is much more fun then any of these people. Ten minutes ago we meant nothing to them now that the emperor loves us they love us too. I would gladly follow you out and drink quietly with you than be stuck in some boring conversation with a silly fop," Laithia says as she stares down a rather colorful yet silly looking young man who was about to come up to her. The man right interprets the stare and turns walking away from the two elves.

"Sadly, I am sure there is nothing in my place and it appears that I will not have a chance to go there. Why can't they just leave us to our own business?" she says a bit bitterly as she stands with Foril waiting to see who comes up to try and talk to her next.

Rolf, never one to seek out attention, was uncomfortable by the attention he started receiving.  But he felt it was something of a challenge, an effort to find him weak and he would not give them the satisfaction.  As such, he turned to his questioners directly, looked them in the eye and stood proudly.

"I come from the lands of the Northern Clans, the lands of Ulfric and Vignar.  The lands themselves are challenging and rugged and many of the weak and foolhardy die, the wolves hunt, the bears feed and the snow wyrms feast, but that is as it should be.  Our enemies are the cat people and the orcs, the goblins and the baser humans, though villages of the Northern Clans often contend one with another."

 Kree's eyes   would shift to the waterclock, every so often, their hour  was almost up...he watched his people to see how many would be ready when the  hour point came.

............

 Rolf's  vistors nodded, some in acknowledgement , others in wonder...do teh Villages  support  either...Hargen, or Ironmound? How did you come to Join up with the Arrows?

...................................

 Laithia's friend  came by...stooped in front of Laithia, her face showed the strain she had, that kept her  from LAshing out...two Men with her  an Older Colonel of the Regulars, and a Young Captain ( too young for captain?) of River Navy stood by her..both, it was easy to see, were vying for her attentions....You...Dare..show yourself in MY  city?

............................................................

Luthien and Justin...Luthien had a younger robed  fellow...looked strong and Bright  come up to him,..good  sir? I am in trainign to be a Cleric...but my blood yearns to spread the word of the Alpower, with  my sword arm....can you offer me advice?

 As Justin made his  way towards the Arrows, a woman, in a slight gown and...perhaps..too much make up, stops him,..Warrior of the gods?Do you have time...after this party...to escort a Lady home?

.....................

  Kash has  2 younger males, pale of skin and slim armed gather around him. They talk and giggle  abit as they ask him about the ways of spell casting.

.............

 Riku has the  largest  amount of folks with her. One woman asked...( it appears she may have one too many, cups of wine).....so..at your size?..how do you make love to humans...as the tales say you do? a few of the other  women gasped  , a couple younger ones giggled, the  tippsy woman shrugs,..you all thought about it..i was just the first to ask!

.................................

  Kree caught Foril's eye, by moving an arm a bit more then he needed to , to summon a waiter to bring him another  drink...when Foril looked  Kree caught his eye and shifted his Gaze to the right of Him and Laithia...there was a fellow...dressed in darker  robes, who appeared to be watching Liathia and the group that now confronted her.

....................

 Diana had  two men follow her to the table one was  smitten, to be sure, the older one seemed to have something to say, but hung back as the Younger fellow tried to chat her up.

Foril nodded slightly to no one in particular and smiled to Laithia and her opposition, "Laithia you didn't tell me you knew the Governess of Ironmound.  Should I get her a drink too?  That would be polite of us at least."  He glanced around in some large arcs but merely as an excuse to be a little mroe covert in keeping an eye on the dark robed figure.  "It is a very nice township."

Diana had  two men follow her to the table one was  smitten, to be sure, the older one seemed to have something to say, but hung back as the Younger fellow tried to chat her up.

Diana rolled her eyes at the younger one.  She was very polite, chatted him up, but was sure not to show any romantic interest.  She got some food, and went to a table across the room.  When she sat down, she pretended forgetting something to drink, and had the younger man to go and get her one.

She had noticed both men when she went to get something to drink, and was hoping that the older man would make a move with the opening.

    The older man followed her, from a distance, he did not  crowd her or the younger man. When the younger fellow went to get her the drink the older fellow  came quickly up to her,his eyes , both moving to the younger man, and  in the direction of a group of Nobles, who seemed less-then-happy, the Arrows were garnering attention.

 Good Lady? Might I have a Moment of your  time, it  should prove....worth your while?

  Kree  smiled slightly as Foril picked up on the signal. The elf hid his smile with a drink of his wine, the Emporer was approaching Kree, with a few people in tow.

  The woman looked at  Foril,her brows  narrowing,...I do not remember  speaking to you? You are like  all the mercenary scum that come through this  city. You think you are equals to us?..you are nothing more the Commoners with a weapon. then she turned to Laithia,..or a harlot who must take someone else's men to bed, because she has none of her own!

 the last couple  words  were a bit shrill and a bit louder, but only a few heads  turned to them..the robed  figure moves slightly as a trio of  Courtiers walked by, to help conceal himself.

Foril decided on the eccentric defence, "We believe in free peoples.  We are free peoples.  In a hall such as this, it is a waste not to dance.  Perhaps her shriek will leave the glasses alone if one of you two gentlemen would show her the steps."  Foril wasn't an expert dancer, but he had enough quickness to ensure he didn't step on Laithia's feet.  There were only a few spells that didn't rely on accuracy to strike an opponent to some degree, and no weapons he was aware of.  He was doing what he could to protect them from either, but it would take

As he tried to sweep Laithia around he enacted the shield spell with a gesture and muttered phrase.  It would counter magic missiles... the only spell that could strike targets without risking anyone else nearby regardless of which of them was the target and it would help with weapons or spells aimed at either of them as he held her close.  He had more attachement to Laithia than this other woman, if the robed figure were targeting her... well... Laithia and Foril would have their alibi as they spun away from the living banshee.

Riku looks at the lady, glares for a bit, taps her finger on her cheek and then puts her hands on her hips.

Well, in my experience or my own town's storytells, we've yet to know.  Though when I get the chance, I'll let you know.  Though halflings are rather...interesting.

She winks to the lady.

  the people sighed, a bit disappointed in Riku's answer. The  Tipsy lady smiled and wandered off.

 about have the people  began to move away, but the younger folks  stayed, asking questions  about magic, and what gods  they worshipped, and how do they carry the coin they need...

Justin was surprised and flattered by the Womans petition however they Arrows had other pressing matters to attend to. Regretfully M'Lady One's purpose for visiting Ironmound hat yet to be completed. One be hopeful such prior arrangements doth not prove an inconvenience. Perhaps One may have opportune to render such another time he informed smiling
This message was last edited by the player at 23:09, Fri 17 May 2013.

  The woman looked crestfallen,Perhaps...but who knows when, yoou will cross the threshold of the Palace again.

In reply to Justin (msg # 63):

Thee hath the truth of it; however the Mighty Hand of Eta hat been known to shape ones path, in manners most unexpected. One wouldst nay have envisaged an opportune to hath met any with such grace anst charm ast Thee M'Lady

  The woman smiles, perhaps blushing a bit ( really hard to tell but there might be some blush showing!)..she bows her head slightly and  drifts away into the crowd.

Luthien thought about the young man's request...

"If you have the gift for Knighthood...which, admittedly, is rather rare...the Church will be able to verify it for you. The path we Knights follow is difficult, but very rewarding. If you don't have the gift, the priesthood will allow you to spread the faith as well, you'll just be doing it with a warhammer or a mace instead of a sword. Both paths will lead you closer to the divine will."

Rather rare...but if this young man has what it takes...he won't discourage him! There's never enough Knights in the world.

  The  young  fellow smiled,so? if i stay the  path of a cleric, they might see i wish to be a Knight? Is it something i must ask for....The books...the  constant study...I know it is needed...but i would rather study the paths of the Knight....My....master , at the Temple..seems to think I should stay the path of a cleric..he says..i... he looks down,..too small to face battle...

"There is virtue in following the wisdom of those further advanced then you. If he has already tested you for Knighthood, and you weren't quite up to it, then you cannot force the issue. It is the Gods who choose who shall be Knights. The priest's path is as honorable, and in some ways, even more demanding. Remember, after all, that the Knight's path is one of order and discipline, and part of that order is following orders from those of greater rank then yourself. You can't bring yourself closer to Knighthood by disregarding your mentors."

It's not the answer the young man wants to hear, surely, but it's the one he needs to hear.

 The Lad Nodded  sadly and Turned away as he said,..Thank You Sir  Luthien, for your wisdom...

Luthien nodded.

"I'm sorry I haven't any better news for you."

Laithia stared at Calise and the two men who shadowed her over to her and Foril. Before Foril could lead her into a dance, she turned to Calise her eyes flashing dangerously. "First I do not remember a sign over the gate saying Calise's City. Maybe we should ask the emperor! He must have forgotten to do that!" her sneer is condescending as she looks over Calise's bodyguards her hip sticking out to draw attention to the blade resting there.

"Finally, if you had kept Carwyn happy he would not have jumped so eagerly into my bed. A happy and satisfied husband never wanders! At least I gave him one good night! He even cried out my name! I do hope for your sake you did not do anything stupid to him. He deserved much better than you," she hisses as Foril leads her to the dance floor.

Her hands rest on Foril as she takes a bit more of the lead seeing that dancing is not his thing. She leads him along an easy elven waltz, her eyes watching Calise and her bodyguards as Foril murmurs something under his breath. "What did you just do?" she asks her voices as tight as her body with tension though she still manages to flow with an elegant grace through the steps of the waltz.

In reply to Diana (msg # 57):

"Sure, and thanks for the rescue." She said with a smile and a wink.
ONce they were off to themselves Diana got to the point.
"What can I do for you?" She asked.

  Kree  began to slowly make his may towards the  Blackrobed  fellow who seemed to have an Over Interest in Laithia and Foril..he was slowly closing in On the  fellow, when a Halfelevn Woman put her hand on his shoulder,..Good  Captain, pray, forgive  my forwardness, But...would you care to dance?

  Stopping, Kree bows his head  slightly,..you will forgive me good Lady, My pack , quiver and Bow, do not lend themselves to the dance...If you prefer...I would share a drink? if you would wish to talk.

  She Nodded  with a smile and they went over towards the  sideboard and began to speak with him....
......................................................

 Ivy  was collecting addresses  from the ladies, and telling jokes that made them laugh, a few of them made sure the  touched  his  arm, or leaned against him as they laughed.
...........................

 The Woman stopped, as Laithia spoke of her Husband. She loked at the two men with her and smiled,...No...Nothing  Stupid..it was  all...well..thought out!  and the  three moves  off the to sideboard at the far side of the HAll.

..................................

The Man smiled  at Diana..The Mission the Emperor is sending you on...is a fools errand. He knows, as do most who have been around the city long enough..that the Arrows...especially Quickshadow, are always eager to save  slaves and such. There is a very..very good bet, that the Princess is dead..or  chain as a Love slave somewhere...the odds of your mote;y little band finding her? Well...Let us say, that My own people couldn't find her yet, and we are...how do you say...professionals?

......................

 Riku was  getting a break now, as the music  started, folks  moved of  to Dance , or to watch who  other folks were dancing with.

....................................

 Rolf, too, was being left , more-or-less alone, as the  people left him to do the same

.............................

 Luthien and Justin, saw other people drift away, now that the Music started again

In reply to ready to leave. (msg # 73):

The Man smiled  at Diana..The Mission the Emperor is sending you on...is a fools errand. He knows, as do most who have been around the city long enough..that the Arrows...especially Quickshadow, are always eager to save  slaves and such. There is a very..very good bet, that the Princess is dead..or  chain as a Love slave somewhere...the odds of your motely little band finding her? Well...Let us say, that My own people couldn't find her yet, and we are...how do you say...professionals?

Diana smiled back at the man.
"Tell me what have you done, and where have you looked.  You know, sometimes a fresh pair of eyes can see things missed." She said.

  The man cleared his throat. The Younger man, seeing Diana with the Older fellow stopped, a brief  look of anger crossed his  face, and he  turned around  with both drinks in his hand  and  headed back to the sideboard.

  the man looked awkward,  as he  struggled, thought quickly, to regain composure,..well...Good Lady..um...most of  my group's actions  are...of the secret vein. But we have send ships up the  Storm River, as well as the Widow River..those on the storm, have heard no word of a princess being captive. And the  ship that sailed up the Widow, heard of the  wreak of the Princess's ship, but never  was able to carry out  further hunts, as they were destroyed by River Pirates...or..Ships from Hargen, we have no way to tell, as all hands  were lost. The message we received, came through a message gem brought to us by one of our MAge's  familars...

 ..Your group is known as Savage dog Killers, when it comes to  slavers and the like. Perhaps. It best..you keep to your  skills?
His smile was cold, as it was condescending .

Justin considered for a moment before heading towards the High Priests.

Laithia tensed as Calise's words really sunk in. As her and Foril danced about the floor, her body became more and more tense as her eyes shone with unshed tears. "If she did something to Carwyn, hurt him or worse...it is all my fault! I cannot live with it! I need to find out what happened Foril," Laithia's face is pure anguish as she meets Foril's gaze.

  When Justin made his way to the High priests, those  with them , looked with distain upon  a...'common mercenary, who used the gods to his own betterment'...the Priests drifted  away,only The Priest Of Thrall stood still, with  4 of his followers watching Justin , as he  stopped before him.

In reply to Diana (msg # 75):

The man cleared his throat. The Younger man, seeing Diana with the Older fellow stopped, a brief  look of anger crossed his  face, and he  turned around  with both drinks in his hand  and  headed back to the sideboard.

   the man looked awkward,  as he  struggled, thought quickly, to regain composure,.. well...Good Lady .. um...most of  my group's actions  are...of the secret vein. But we have send ships up the  Storm River, as well as the Widow River..those on the storm, have heard no word of a princess being captive. And the  ship that sailed up the Widow, heard of the  wreak of the Princess's ship, but never  was able to carry out  further hunts, as they were destroyed by River Pirates...or..Ships from Hargen, we have no way to tell, as all hands  were lost. The message we received, came through a message gem brought to us by one of our Mage's  familiars...

  ..Your group is known as Savage dog Killers, when it comes to  slavers and the like. Perhaps. It best .. you keep to your  skills?
 His smile was cold, as it was condescending .

"Well, good sir, perhaps it is a band of Savage Dog Killers that this job requires.  I have found that when ... certain ... groups lack the intestinal fortitude to ... get their hands ... dirty, groups like mine are required.  I'm sorry, good sir, that you and your group lack the will or the intestinal fortitude to do what is necessary when it comes to slavers.  Their ilk requires more then a slap on the wrist, and "don't do that again" attitude.  Then again, I doubt you have ever tasted the lash of a slaver's whip.  Nor, have you had loved ones enslaved.  Perhaps if you had, you would be more ... serious in your attitude when it comes to the persuit, hunt and extermination of slavers." Diana said.

She returned the man's condescending smile inch for inch.

"The problem is you think inside the box.  You expect only certain reactions, and moves to be made.  Think outside the box. Think like a slaver.  If you had a princess captive, would you advertise it to the world? Why bring down that kind of heat?  Or, instead, would you hide her away somewhere, and quietly contact the family, asking for a huge ransom.  Knowing they are going to pay.  Then, and only then, do you crow to the world about what you did.  Then, the deed is done." Diana said.

She watched the older man for a reaction.

Riku smiled and was pleased at the inquiry and curiosity that the other townsfolk had about her.  Instead of sneers and dirty looks, they wanted to know more.  She ordered a mini-drink and a dash of food, and went about eating as she watched the others.

In reply to JT (msg # 78):

It doth appear those who doth profess themselves ast Representatives of Alpower, Gorr anst Lenus consider such decision by His Imperial Majesty beneath them. As obvious by such display of distain, anst incivility. Justin loudly chastised the departing Clerics

If perchance such be not the case One doth offer our sincere apology he adds before turning towards the High Cleric of Trall

If Thee permit Devout of Trall may One impose upon Thy time to Seek Thy Council
This message was last edited by the player at 06:16, Sat 01 June 2013.

  Kree looks at the Clock, it was 2 minutes, until it reached an hour...he  walked towards the Emperor, he says aloud,...Your Highess...I must take my Leave..My business and..now..this....thing..you wish us to do, cannot  have time wasted, by standing about with those who need not fear a blade..well..at least a blade they can see coming... he purposefully laughs  at his own joke.

  We have accepted an offer for a vessel..You will be so kind to have supplies delivered to its berth..the ship owner  will tell you where...We need  food, arrows, oil, and perhaps  some healing potions...Coin would be good as well, as we will need to bribe folks..of that i am certain... he looks about at the  Courtfolk, he sneers  just a bit,..I am certain that is well understood here...

 He looks around the room,...My Friends I am Going, those of you who wish to...enjoy...the company of the Court, May stay, just report to the Walk the Plank when you are done here..

 bowing to the Emperor Kree turns on his heel and  strides towards the Door. AxeHammer holding  his Mug up in salute, as Kree passes. The Emperor smiling slightly and shaking his head...around the room is a great deal of buzz as folks complain about 'the rude elf'..or..'i have half a mind to duel him right now!'

  Ivy was  fast On Kree's heels Giving a  quick kiss to  one of the Younger LAdies who waved her   hand in front of her face as he  scampered away...Ivy smiled,..you just got us  free supplies and some coin?

 ..its the least they can do..making us waste time here...

 ohhhh..i think i had  some fun..you know..after all the talking.

As Kree and Ivy turn to leave, Laithia looks at Foril and hopefully the two quickly follow after the cousins. When the two catch up with them, Kree and Ivy can see that Laithia is close to tears.

"We have to find out about someone before we leave! I need to know if Carwyn is ok. Calise threatened she did something to him. I need to make sure he is ok! I cannot leave here without making sure he is alive," she says her voice tight with panic and worry. Her hand is holding onto Foril's as she speaks taking comfort in the other elf.

  The Cleric of Trall looked at Justin,..most folk give my people distain...they think our god is evil?..but our god is  of import. with out him? Battles  could be waged forever..he sides with those, whom deserve the win...who fight, and nay, cower...Thus...holywarriors, such as yourself, who ply their arms against  foes...are of favor....what..question have you?

....................................

Diana...The older man looked at her, his eyes narrowed, just a bit...it..it  appears i have wasted my time...enjoy your  free food and drink...it may be the last you get, once you take up the mantle of this mission...

......................................................

 most of the other court folk moved off...Liathia noticed a very satisfied look on her 'friends' face as she and  walked with her..escorts.

  Kree keeps walking, as does Ivy , though the blue eyed  elf looks from Laithia to Kree and BAck.

 and?..what  would you do?..run to your place?..or a hidey hole you two might have had?  he shakes his head,..if she did somehting..it is done, and nothing you can do....if she has not? then she is waiting for you to lead her to him...

  he was silent for a few steps as he added,we need to split up before we board our brand new ship...when we do?..that will be the time you can check on him...because you will have  some of us with you..and can do it under the cover of 'our business'...

 The  Elf's jaws worked as he gritted his teeth,something is amiss...one does not summon  people in the middle of  some foppish ball, to announce to them all, they are sending us on a mission of such import....it...does not feel right...

In reply to others (msg # 84):

Justin acknowledges the Trall priests comment
This message was last edited by the player at 03:38, Mon 20 May 2013.

 The  Cleric of Trall shakes his ehad, his eyes  look in the direction of theb other clerics. His speaks softly...the try was made..we even tried to see the wizard who lives in the tower  at the  Northeast...whatever is stopping the  scry..is powerful, it may be from the mountains...but we think it may be..HArgen at work.

In reply to JT (msg # 87):


Aye, such in itself be sufficient to isolate the blackguards. He agreed; then considers some possibilities. Mayhaps there be a means of locating yon scryguard ast One doth head inst its direction; such as a device which when'st employed at various points be capable of indicating the general position of such scryguard. ooc triangulation
This message was lightly edited by the player at 03:20, Mon 20 May 2013.

Laithia listened to Kree's words. It was too much as she burst into tears. She knew him and how he could be but it was still sometimes too much. Though he did say she could look for Carwyn, his words already did their damage. She could tell herself it was not her fault but she could not make herself believe it. Calise had never liked Laithia and this was just an excuse for the two to continue a stupid feud that Laithia could care less about. Her hands shook as she stopped not wanting to be around Kree for a while as she stood and just cried, finally bringing her hands up to hide the tears running down her cheeks.

  The   Black Robed  priest nods,..the scholars, sages  and Mages  pulled together, while the  High priests of...most..of the churches pulled together. Even the Orc High Priest, from the orc Section oftown Joined in...the only thing we could turn up, is the ships wreakage, and a dead pirate that carried  the Princess's earrings.

  Kree stopped, for Just a moment as he  turned , halfway in her direction, his face hidden by his hood, he  said softly, yet sternly,..An elf  should not shed tears over a wandering husband...it is  beneth our kind...what is of more import, is you give pleasure to your foe, as she watches you shed tears, over something she would throw away....you will find out his status..one way or the other...it depends how much dignity you want to bring with you...

  He continued to walk..Ivy waited for a moment, his eyes looking from under his own hood, as he watched some people enjoying the  early night air, as the sun began to drop...more then one of them, looked  down  from the balcony at them.

  ..he is right...do not allow her to relish victory, on her field of battle...

In reply to JT (msg # 90):

Justin nodded apprecitative of these confidences Thankest Thee greatly Devout of Trall, One be obliged to accompany Ones Captain. he mentioned chinning towards Kree. If perchance Thee hath further to impart unto us before our departure One wouldst be grateful With a respectful nod to the High Priests and The Emperor; Justin followed Kree from the Palace.
This message was last edited by the player at 03:37, Mon 20 May 2013.

Blessings on you, son of Eta...Trall and Eta are friends, as is Neta..for good , and ill luck, flow on both sides, during war. he turns away and  heads  to the sideboard for something to drink.

Luthien was left to himself for the moment, and since he wasn't approached at the moment, he took time to observe what the others were doing, and how they were doing it.

Also...this was a political environment. Not everybody had everyone else's best interests at heart. He bowed his head for a moment, as if in prayer...

In reply to others (msg # 84):

The older man looked at her, his eyes narrowed, just a bit...it..it  appears i have wasted my time...enjoy your  free food and drink...it may be the last you get, once you take up the mantle of this mission...

"No, you haven't wasted your time." Diana said.
She picked up a glass, and saluted the older man.
"To the future." She said.

Riku finished her meal in enough time to see Kree, Ivy, and another pair of the Arrows head off out of the court and dining area departing seemed rather appropriate at this point.  She was content to head out of there quickly.  She'd gained an arousing crowd, but since they had departed she'd ate and had her fill of the company.

She'd caught up to Kree, Ivy, and Laithia at the ass end of advising her to wait and hold off.

So what's the banter? she asked fluttering near the three/four.  She looked over at Laithia and noticed her reddened, puffy, tear stained face.

Once out of the palace and of earshot of anyone else Justin glances at Kree, Wouldst we be headed for the informant he quietly asked

  Kree did not speak again, until they crossed over the drawbridge and was on the Road Of Kings...right now?  we go to The Walk The Plank...we split into teams, Ivy will go to Pleasure Street and meet with our Informant, to see what she dug  up...I will be taking a team to the scholar's  section of the City..Laithia will go with Ivy, so they can...pass by..what is left of her house. The rest can choose  what team they wish to be on when we hit The Plank...But...we must be at the Docks, north of the  Plank, so we can sail on this Goose chase we have been given...

 ..goose?..what? You do not think this is real?

 ..oh..i am sure there was a ship attacked..there are ships attacked  everyday..theirs , by ours, or ours  By them...then you toss the red Elves, the damned halflings, and the pirates in the mix...yes..Good  Cousin..there was a ship attacked....and some woman was taken....is it not odd, my firend..that there was no  one Mouri Offical in the Hall?

In reply to Kree Quickshadow (msg # 98):


"I had an interesting conversation with an older man." Diana said.
"He claimed his group had sent ships up the Widow River and up the Storm river, and found no evidence of a princess being taken captive." She said.

"Then again, he also said we were a band of mad dog killers when it came to slavers." She said, adding a smile at the last comment.

"That got me thinking.  If we were pirates, and we had kidnapped a princess, why announce it to world?  Why not hide her away in secret somewhere,  and then contact the family for a huge ransom.  You know they are going to pay it.  Afterwards, you could crow to the world all you want. She said.

"When I mentioned that, he got all flustered and offended.  But, it would explain why nobody has been able to find a trail." She said.

    Kree  looked  over  his  shoulder,..Older man?..His Group?...did you get a name......he replayed  what she said  in his head, then Laughed,..mad Dog Killers when it comes to slavers?..I like that...I hope the slavers feel that way as well...intimidation, can effect a battle before it starts.

 The  elf shakes his head,There is alot, that is not right with this.,..and..by Eta and Neta's bouncing breasts...there is going to be a huge  butcher's bill..should  we be double Crossed in this...

  The reach the  Northweast Way and  turned to the right, they see the  Huge drawbridge going up...the  Western River  gate slowly opening...  Two large Frigates we sailing up the river into  Ironmound. One was an Ironmound Frigate, suited for  the River , or the  Sea...Kree  kept  walking , he was not  going to stop until they reached the bridge  and have to wait on the ships.

 There were more then a few thieves  lurking about,  Kree  looked at one fellow who was bumpoing into folks and was headed their  way.  He adjusted the Arrow  pin on his  Collar, and signed something to the man...the man went in the other  direction.

 He  walks to the North wall of the  Bridge, looking up River to where the Walk-the-Plank was...Street lights were being lit, with Serpent oil...the Middle of the   Docks lighting up..spreading up and down the docks...parts of the City began to light up, as lamp lighters  did their job...the Dark Blue  sky with  stars forcing their  way through, countered the last Rays of the sun, while the first of the moons could be seen  rising to the  east.....Times like this..one almost forgets how much darkness fills the streets...

  As he scanned the area...there were more then a few people who showed darkness..though their smiles were bright and laughter easy...

 two folks caught Luthien  by surpise..the  High Priest of  The Alpower, showed darkness...and The Colonel, whom Kree had belittled, after the man apoke  down to him,sent back a tide of darkness, that almost Hurt Luthien

Justin kept pace with the arrow, as he considered the information being shared. There certainly was something which doesn't fit right. Neither spies nor the clergy were able to locate this princess, which is if there was a princess in the first place. Whatever it was the Emperor was hoping to achieve; it was apparent he had no problems using the Crimsons as a diversion or bait.

Luthien, passively observing, caught two very important pieces of information. He'd have to inform the Commander...not all is as it appears to be.

Approaching Commander Kree for a moment...

"Commander? Might I have a brief word?"

Something's not right at all...
This message was last edited by the player at 04:50, Wed 22 May 2013.

Foril sighed, "While there are simple enough magical items that create the spell effect I used, I've fairly given myself away as a mage.  I haven't given that I rather like knife fighting and have several not just in commonly searched areas of my person.  I too have reason to believe that we need to be out of here before that very specifically arbitrated hour is over.  If I do not accompany Laithia, I want Kashtheil to be there, I want to be certain the enemy isn't using magic to do their dirtywork.  It leaves some little evidence after all.  An enemy to the individual is a threat to the whole.  I'm just not sure what to do about that shrieking woman and her poor taste in clothing."

  The Ironmound  Frigate cleared the Drawbridge, the Tope of its  masts, level with the  group....the  Merchant ship...flying the  flag of  Engar followed, once  the Gate MAster  signaled it.

  Kree looked to Luthien..what information  have you, Good  Luthien?

In reply to Kree Quickshadow (msg # 100):

Diana shakes her head no.
She gives him a very detailed description of the man.  What he looked like, mannerisms, clothing he was wearing, and any possible weapons he might have been carrying, and weapons she suspected he might have been carrying.

Everything of significance and even some little details."Do you know anyone like that?" She asked.

 With a frown and a shake of his head, Kree answered Diana,..could be anyone...there are a few dozen, who think themselves...'favorites'..the others  via for the title...he is either  trying to put  us off this job,...or does not what  us to be successful...


 watching the MAsts of the merchant, go slowly past...Kree was shaking his head...he wanted to be at The Plank..now!....things were moving too fast, and they have been slowed in their  actions.

Luthien lowers his voice to the merest of whispers, knowing well keen elven hearing would be able to pick it out anyway.

"There is darkness in the priest of Alpower...and there shouldn't be. He should always read neutral. There's also darkness in that Colonel whom you got on the bad side of. Trust him not."

  Kree looked at Luthien,..That Colonel is a dead man, he just does not know it yet..we had words , more then once, when i was with the guard...his idea of moving up the ranks, requires   those in front of him, to die..

 The Alpower?...Mayhaps the father of all...wishes  more darkness on his plate?

   the Last mast Cleared the Drawbridge,, the River gate was already closing...when time  comes, to board our new ship?..I want everyone  to search, cast and poke..every corner of that ship.....

Riku giggles and shakes with enough excitement that some of her dust in her pouches seeped out and spread on the ground below her.

I can poke...freely?? she said excited.

He nodded about the colonel, no surprise there...but continuing his whisper...

"Still...more likely then the father of all wanting more darkness, I think, is that the priest of the Alpower isn't what he appears to be. He can wear whatever robes he likes, but he can't hide the stain on his soul."
This message was lightly edited by the player at 04:41, Thu 23 May 2013.

  Kree leans  towards  Luthien a bit as he says softly,Regard  any you see from the Alpower with care...when we get to the Plank, you will inform the rest of this...it seems..we have much  to speak on, before  we do our  hunting in this  city..and the sands  are running...

  The Horn Blew, and folks started to  walk across the  bridge, Kree lead his people across the Bridge , as soon as they passed the other end, he cut down a sidestreet, that would take them to the Docks.


 ((everyone..PM me a 1d100))

Rolf follows along, unhappy with the current turn of events, but getting some enjoyment from getting out of the lordling's palace.  Still, he'd rather be in the countryside, hunting the damn cat folk.

 the Group reached the  start of the Docks, even at this time of night, there were Ironmound Guards with Heavy crossbows, and two elven bowmen , watching over a group of Red Island Halflings..the Halflings were working on the  banks of the  Storm River..setting, stacking  and Mortaring  stones into place...it was dangerous at nigh, as some of the larger serpants were said to snatch people off the banks at Night.

  2 Halfling children watched the halflings  working...one of them asked a passerby for some coin, the  passer By ignored them, But a Human GUard pushed the child down with the Butt of his  crossbow...

 ..Kree...look.... Ivy nodded to the Guard.

 Kree's eyes had witnesses  the action , and he had already diverted his path from the dock to the seawall...You there!  GUardsman...why...did he  hit that child?

 The  Man was close to Rolf's size, but not as Muscled, bugger off , long ear...they's  halfings  ain't they...

 Kree reached the spot where the child lay crying, he offered his hand to the Child, Ivy's bow  already had an arrow nocked and trained on the bigman.His face was calm, one might thing Ivy was  watching the ships on the River.

 ..These...halflings..are not Red Isles...

 who gives a damn, Longear? Halfings  can't be trusted....

   He picked the Child up and saw she had a bruise on her chin, Luthien?..he put the Child on the  ground  and gently Pushed her towards the Holywarrior...he took the other one's hand and  Tapped her towards Justin,..Justin....

  He took another step closer to the guard,..sea wall guard?..well..they only pick the best for that..do they not?  even in the   Torch light, Kree's hateful sneer could not be missed.

  One of the  Elven Bowmen said , from his perch on a rock,..Ease Brother...Janis is one of the   Guards toughest fighters....
   The elf was relaxed. his bow wasn't nocked, he just watched between the  halflings and  Janis...The red Island Halfling cat called up towards the women, asking  Diana if she ever had a HAlfling, another asked  Laithia  if she would  rub some healing lotion on him..he indicated where..the other  halflings  laughed.

 lookit here , Longear..we don't need yer kind here..its bad enough i have two of them in my squad...

 Kree nooded slowly, he looked at the two  Halfling children,..you'll give  be one gold  coin for each chid..you will do it now...and you will thank me  for allowing you to give them the  coin...rather then me drive my blade up trough your throat...

  Janis bristled..his  jagged teeth  showed in anrger,..you dare...threaten a Member of the guard?

 Kree said over his shoulder to  his 'holywarriors'..is it not..the providence  of men of weapons, to aid those who cannot fight for themselves?

 The Man , now had the heavy Crossbow  trained on Kree, holding it at his waist, aiming at Kree's waist..That don't count for Halfling scum...and you have no authority here..Longear...

 Kree's eyes looked at the Croosbow,..ah...my ugly firend, that is where you are wrong...some 200 yards from here is My base..The Walk The Plank...i consider these docks...mine....so...if you threaten helpless folk in my lands...well...it is better, just  to not do it....Your Crossbow?..it may do some deadly damage to me...if you hit..but should you miss..it will take you days to die......  Kree's left arm came up, pointing to the man's purse....the coin..now..or  I will take it from you body....

Riku had been momentarily distracted but seeing the abuse of the child regardless of what he or she was, was intolerable.  She quickly fluttered above the men and looked down at Kree.

Shall I make them suffer, she said more than asked.  Her voice deep and sinister, more evil like, like the fairy tell version of her kind.
This message was last edited by the player at 22:22, Sat 25 May 2013.

  Kree  chuckled,..maybe, good lady..After this fellow gives the children the coin...and..of course apologizes to them....and me....for his remarks..and his treatment...

 The elf on the Rock chuckled, his bow, still was not nocked, though one would believe if would be but a breath before it was...The Othe Elf was standing where the docks  met the seawall path, his bow  was at his side, he was looking off  tot eh river...only the other  4 Humans seemed to be taking an interest in what was going on..but two of them kept an eye on the  prisoners..the  third, began to walk up the  wal towards  Janis, he unsheathed a longsword as he walked towards  Kree and Janis.

Riku's hand slithered into her pouch of oddities and motioned at the man coming towards them with a longsword.

Careful where you tread human, she said in a deep voice.  Least you fall victim to what this man will be getting.

In reply to Riku Key (msg # 117):

Diana sighed.
They really didn't need this.
But what it was, it was.
Diana drew her bow covertly, and quietly notched it.
While she wasn't fond of anyone abusing children, starting shit about it wasn't exactly her idea, but in for a penny, in for a pound.  As the saying went.
So, she prepared for the worst, and hoped for the best

In reply to goingto the Plank (msg # 114):

Justin took the Halfling child's hand crouching beside them.Now child fret not, yon bully shall either recant his brutish nature or be chastised heartily
This message was last edited by the player at 23:52, Sat 25 May 2013.

Luthien took the hand of the other, and when his eyes turn on those who'd been misusing them...it became clear this Holy Warrior cared for children of all races.

"Be not afraid. We are with you, and I am a servant of Tra, he a servant of Eta."

And when the man in shining full plate eyes the other men...

Well, Luthien carries a very sharp sword for just such men as those.

  ..now look..you are going to stand there, and tell me that ye are flat out gonna kill City Guards?

 ..I am Kree Quickshadow, Captain of this Unit of Crimson Arrows. Though we are a mercenary Company, we also carry a letter of Marque to deal with....injustices...as we come across them... the  words  came from Kree's mouth, well practiced, most form memory, as if he had to recite it often., his eyes studied the  Guards, and the prisoners.

 ...Janis...I think you are going further out, on the limb, then can support your weight. I will not use my bow, against an Elven Brother...

 ..nor  I..that will leave  2 of us alive to watch the prionsers..we may have to kill one or two of them to make certain we watch over them...but..that is how they say...is that... The other Elf , by the dock spoke, his eyes never even looking at the Arrows.

 That left 5 Humans  facing the Arrows...one of the Humans shook his ehad   and walked back to the  Prisoners, Cuffing  the one who made Comments about Diana's skills in the sack...I'm not fighting Mecrs....

 ..There you have it...the coin..and the apology comes now...time is wasting, and i have much to do, before we carry out the Emperor's orders...

 Janis was  taken aback by the last words,..you? A bloddy Longear..with  a handful of rabble, doing the Emperor's bidding....I am supposed to believe that?

 ..I hear..'longear'..once more, this shaft is tearing out your throat...

 Kree laughs, the kind of laugh you throw in someone's face,...It is no concern to me, what flith like you beleive...had this happen outside the city walls..you would be dead, and  any who stood with you...it is only these walls that have kept you breathing..so far..but that ends...

 He points to LuthienWe have three holy warriors in our  group....they are...more forgiving then I...so..rather then cut you down, right now? Good Luthien will count to 3...but he time  the word three...leaves his lips...you will have the coin out and be speaking your apology...or you will be dead, and we will gift your purse to the children, and take your weapons  to add to my armory....Luthien?..Please..when you are ready...

  another Human moved back down the sea wall, this left JAnis  and two others facing the Company..the Injured girl held Luthien's leg..the other  clung to Justin..her eyes wet with fear for her older sister.

Luthien was quite stern.

"I have a Knight's honor and dignity...and also a Knight's duty to protect those weaker then myself. As for you...it is prudent to take mercy when it is offered to you. Commander Kree will not offer it twice."

Luthien is no 'longear', no elf...but he's not human either. He's something...else. Something that shines with an inner radiance...

"Now then...

1."

He pauses, generously.

"2. I do not seek bloodshed, but if you insist on being stubborn bullies, to children no less, I am within my rights to see to it you never do it again."

He's really hoping they back down.

"3."

 Another Man sheathed his blade, and backed down the seawall..leaving only Janis  and the first person to draw his blade.

 Janis ..lowered his crossbow at "2"..he pulled out his  Purse and threw it  at the foot of  Luthien's Child....There...I'm sorry...take your coin from the pouch and  leave..while...

 Kree shook his head,..I know you do not have to be very bright, to be in the guard...but you do have to understand Common..I said..Youwere to hand the coin to them, and apologize.... Krr's Blade hissed  from its  sheath, the man stepped back, even as  Ivy pulled the  fletchings of the nocked arrow to his  ear.

 ..do not be a hero Janis...it does not fit you...the elf  by the dock said.

 Janis  walked over...his  face a mask of  rage  and embarrassment.. he opened the  purse and Gave  Luthien's child a Gold coin, then moves a step and gave Justin's  child a gold coin.....I..I..am sorry for hitting you....please...think no less of me....

 As He turned, Kree's arm came up, the hilt of his  sword  striking Janis under the chin,the man fell to the ground, grasping at the broken skin and the blood that came from the wound,..you have  paid  for the insult  with you coin....you have paid for thier embarrassment  , with your words...and now...you have been paid back, in the coin that you earned for striking and unarmed child.....I will tell you this, Janis of the guard...pray to your gods, that i never see you outside the walls....

 he takes Janis's  Purse and walks towards the docks again, the Dockway Guard smiled,been wanting to do that myself, for along time, one can only be called  'longear' so many times...

 Ivy chuckles,..if you ever leave the guard, sign up with the Arrows..we can always use another  elven bow...

  when they were  closing in on the  Walk-The-Plank, Kree tossed Luthien the purse,...give Tra a donation from that..split the rest with the children....

 the children  followed the  Arrows like Puppydogs, staring up at them as if they were gods themselves...

"Thank you commander."

The tithe is 10%, so he sets that aside for the temple.

The other 90%, he gives to each child, split evenly...he'll make money enough in other ways. These two children have nobody to care for them for now, unless...

He doesn't keep any for himself, for he doesn't see it necessary. Tra will provide better hunting and better fortune, he's sure of it.

"Do either of your parents still live? If not...which god do you pray to?"

If their parents aren't alive, the Temple is the next best idea.
This message was last edited by the player at 10:26, Sun 26 May 2013.

  The oldest one, the one that has been hit.....our father was Killed by a serpant. He was working as a fisherman,Our Mother....works....on Pleasure street. both girls look down.

 Kree asks, offhandedly ..Do you follow  the Cup and Bowl?

  The Youngest one looks up and Nods, Kree cannot see, he is walking, The oldest one says,..aye..Master Kree..we...do.

  Kree smiles as he stops and crouches  down,well then? It is  well met we are. The Arrows   have an...understanding...with the Cup and Bowl..they are  our allies...and we are theirs...You two may come to the Plank tonight...When Ivy and his group leaves for Pleasure street?..You can go with them  to find your Mom..unless you have a home to go to instead?

 we have a Home, near the Arena....we were working on the docks...My sister saw the Red HAlflings and wanted to see if  we knew any of them..i tried to tell her they are not from our lands...they are not like us....

 Kree turned to the littlest one,..and...did yuou see anyone you knew?

 the Little one shook her head sadly, Kree fuzzed her head as he stood up,It is good you did not...they are dark inside...Come..time  for you two to get something to eat and drink, and warm by the fire...I think you have earned your coin today...

 They neared  The Plank, some of the  regulars on the dcck parted  before them, those who did not  know them where  jerked out  of the way by Others, Ivy went in first  witht he 2 girls in tow, Kree turned to the others and said quietly,..The Cup and Bowl is one of  Ironmound's ..2...beggar Guilds.. we are allied to them..they have , mostly children in it...save for some  Adults who help spread the money about and sell information that the little ones  find...I spoke to one of them, when we entered the gates...not even the Emperor knows, that guild is allied with us...

Diana just shook her head, and lowered her bow.  She understood Kree's outrage, but she also knew that one couldn't go along trying to save every elven child, or every child.
But it was what it was.  She just let out a sigh, and went about doing what she was going to do before the whole dust up began.

Riku watched as the lack of sincerity with the duty of mercy was lackluster at best.  Two forces within Riku fought, her good side, her bad side.  Though she often traveled the path of good will, there were times like this that it was a bitter pill to swallow.  One of the sides won out as the group headed towards the gates.  She lingered and watched Janis return to work.

Pulling out her blowing dart and her darts, she set her sights on the guard, Janis who had crossed a path of ill favor with a youth.  Her eyes focused on the target, she mumbled a humble prayer:
O most mighty One, creator of good and evil,
Pray that thee smite the demonic hearts of angels deceased,
May the reign of your might smite sin from thy heart and purify thy soul
may the mightiest of evils be brought to their knees,
may the strongest of oaths be broken to the devil,
may satans bind on me be free from my soul
may my memories and hurts be put to rest as my soul is cleansed from evil
may the sword of justice act swiftly and judgementally as all enemies of the cross fall.

As the prayer fell, she blew the dart at Janis her aim towards a bare spot along his neckline.  The smiting evil fell just as it would hit.

  Janis slapped at his neck line, the Arrows, most of them, were  well onto the Docks  by then..Janis Fell to the Ground, his crossbow , Clattering on the  stones. He rolled down the  seawall , and the Halflings  didn't waste time, two of them smashed their  stops on him, one on his ehad, on onhis right arm...two arrows hit the  first Halfling, who fell in a clatter of  chains, rolling further down the wall, and into  the Muck and reeds of the river's  edge...

 the one who hit  Janis' head was Cut  down by Janis's friend with the longsword....Another rHUman blew his  whistle, a few whistles  sounded in answer, and the clatter  of weapons and the  thump of feet could be heard, closing in on the seawall.

In reply to the docks (msg # 125):

Justin crouches beside the injured halfling. If Thee doth permit Mistress One shall attend to Thy injuries ast Eta doth will.
This message was last edited by the player at 00:48, Mon 27 May 2013.

  The Little Girl nods as she watched  Justin with  wide eyes.

In reply to JT (msg # 130):

Justin smiles warmly May Eta's blessing be upon Thee child he prays quietly before resting his hand on her shoulder
This message was last edited by the player at 00:49, Mon 27 May 2013.

  the child's Bruise  goes away, as  well as  some scuffs she had from her  fall.

In reply to JT (msg # 132):

Justin gives a prayer of gratitude to Eta then hostles the childs hair There now how dot Thee feel Mistress.

  make post in the city here now..until we return to The Plank

  The places  is  trashed, windows broken, it is bare except for the bed..the bed seems to be in fine shape..there is a note there..written in a very delicate hand..she notices  her Mother's knife is stabbed into the middle of the bed..it holds  down a note, that would have been blown around by the breeze coming through the broken windows.

  My dearest Laithia,

   Thank you for the few goods  I could sell, I left this knife, because it was the only thing I thought fitting to plunge into the bed. I also left you the Bed, since it was the only bit of furniture you got the most use of. Pity you were not here for the raid. I wonder how your lover fares now...

 sweet Blessings
 calise

Laithia's body goes rigid for a brief second as her eyes read the note. Then it all comes pouring out as she lets out a shriek of pure rage. Grabbing the hunting knife, she repeatedly stabs it into the bed uttering curses in elven aimed at the woman who did this all. With her anger played out, she sits upon the ruined bed, her head in her hands as she cries over the few items that were left after her parents were killed.

  Ivy  shakes his head sadly, he looks at the bare and ruined house,..seems  she has her hands in the magistrate's pockets...she could not have done this, without some help...

 he motions  for the others to  take a peek outside, to see if anyone is overly  interested in them.

"Calise strikes me as the type who would want to capture this moment to gloat and if she isn't here... it means she plans to have anyone here killed, or we together were more than she bargained for."  Foril rolled the idea in his head, "Likely an assassin in some clothes or another who simply chose not to reveal himself until a better time.  I know very little about sailing, but we cannot trust a crew for a ship third hand... without precautions.  It would have been bad enough had Calise not been with those men tonight.  Thankfully, I think she tipped her hand a little much in that show. I'll hate to do it, but there isn't as much magic around here as home.  I imagine I can sink or cripple a ship if we must.  We should be on the move though."

He offers Laithia some drink from a small bottle, "It should help settle your nerves but just a sip... or it might kill you," he imagined she'd be more interested in revenge rather than death.  It was a lie, but often that was the best way to gauge where someone's head was.  It was a terrible bitter drink though.

In reply to Foril Kaniir (msg # 138):

Diana had gone outside to keep a look out.  She found an out of the way spot, where she could have a clear view of both the street and the house.  She looked for anyone showing more interested then necessary, or anything out of the ordinary.

(OOC:Temple team)

The team for the Temple District proceeded apace, headed to the grand temple of Alpower first. After all, it was the biggest, most important temple of the bunch. He'd have to determine how thoroughly the temple was infiltrated...it was inconceivable they'd ALL read dark to him, for the true priests could and would read grey almost all the time.

(OOC:Temple team)

How be it so many people can live together. he quietly comments Indeed Tis truly remarkable. Captain Kree doth Thee know the population of Ironmound. pausing to digest the reply. Glancing at Luthien Perchance yon hath Devout's of the true calling who be able to assist

ooc we could check if they have any paladins serving at the temple
This message was last edited by the player at 04:07, Sat 01 June 2013.

  Ivy looked at Foril and Laithia, Rolf and Di were outside,..come..we have alot of ground to cover this night...

Riku slowly flutters down towards Kree.

Anything you wish of me to do or watch, Captain?

  As they walked down the  Ave. to their right, they see  the 'Ice Lake Inn', the big Lake behind it and the few Trees that protect it from the  road, is Ice Lake..there are  two buildings in the back, that the others  cannot see the name of..on at either end of the lake..

  In the Middle of the Trees, is another Inn, 'The Coiler's Spring', seem to cater to machine minded folks, a few dwarves and Humans are out front drinking in the early night air....The Beggar's Corner  is  just behind them at the coner of the Road of Kings and the ave they travel..the same corner, Kree spoke to a child , who scurried off....a Late caravan was coming in, by the look of the swarthy guards, they were from the Desert Kingdoms...most of the people around them, seem to shun them...but...their goods  would sell quickly enough.

 to their left was the first Temple...facing the street..a crush stone road lead to it. The Temple of the Northern Gods. Built for those who worship them from the North of Laynak

 As they finally reached  the corner Kree stopped and Pointed to different areas...Artifact Street..where most of the sages and  people who tinker with machines live.  The Mech Guild was close by, on the street was an Inn called ' The Bolt and Nut'..a Very long and tall building sat tucked in the corner of the  City walls, The Mech guild workshop..That small Temple in front is the 'Temple of Bena'..Behind that at the end of this ave, is  a shop the  machine lovers sell their creations out of....

 Rounding the corner, Down the  Road of Wisdom..on the corner was 'Saddle Bag Inn"..50 yards or so down the Raod was a shop," Money Lender'. The Street of Defense ran towards the section of  smaller Temples. The Temple of Desert Gods  was on this road..at the end , through the tress ( aslo a road  called Park road , lead to the  Northwest waay)..were five smaller temples, One each for..Nar, Kar, Tra, Oge and Nin.

  they walked  a goodly bit as  Kree ppointed out the areas for the  tempoles   he stopped as another road  went towards the River..Huge Temples lined this Road..The Road of The Gods...  fropm the Nearest. to the farest were..Temple of Eta..Temple of Neta...Temple of Alpower...Temple of Lenus..Temple of Trall. the left side of that road was thick forest, the right side was of the huge Temples and houses...to the right of the Road  of Wisdom, was houses that looked more suited for  the woodlands...Sages, and Hunters, and  folks such as that tended to live her..There was the 'Bookshelf inn'..at the Corner of Risk Street and  Road of Wisdom...at the end of Risk street was  a Shop,' Ace Hunters'.

 pointing further down the  Raod , to their right he said,..That is  the Healer's section..the  big building is   the Guild for healers, with through magics, or  nature, or powers and such... way down, in that far corner of  the City, is the Old Mage we will seek... The Mage's guild is  not far from his tower..the wwithx lives  further to the  north..both have walled compounds...

  ..One last road, The Road of Doom...has  a small temle to Harg, a small Temple to Cran...and  a large temple at the end of the road, deep in the trees...a temple for Gorr.... Oleen and Amot share  a Temple Further down near the  Scholar's guild and the  Great Library.. Blue  Lake is between them...as is the Raod of The Mind.

  To Riku he says,..just watch for  folks..watching us..and beware... I should think that putting us on display at court had its  reasons...but we have added to our list of enemies this day...

Captain Kree which Scholar wouldst we be visiting this evening he asked respectfully aware that Luthien wished to investigate the degradation in the priesthood of Alpower

"Are we investigating the temple as a unit?"

He wasn't sure whether he'd be going in with his whole team, or by himself.

In reply to Luthien (msg # 147):

Affor bearding a drako in its lair, tis best to glean what one canst about it. Yonder are many temples, perhaps consulting Our brethren wouldst prove beneficial. As wouldst looking to the reason which brought us all here first. Justin suggested

Laithia clenches the dagger so tightly her knuckles turn white as she sits on the destroyed bed seething with rage. Her hands shake as they turn the note over not sure what she keeps hoping to see but knowing that this was not over. When Foril offers her a drink, she takes the sip, her face scrunching up with the taste of it. Handing it back to Foril, she chokes out, "what the hell was that?"

When she shakes her head, her eyes are as hard as diamonds as she looks to Ivy and then Foril. "I am going to make her pay! This is not over and she will regret everything she did to me and even Carwyn. My parents wedding rings Ivy! My dads bow! Other than the hunting knife, I now have nothing left of them! This was uncalled for! Attack me! Come after me personally but do not attack my family! I will not rest!" her voice was calm but deadly as she spoke in elven to the two males still with her.

  Ivy nods,..of course she will pay. A City tramp? Has no idea what happens when you Cross  a Razorhawk....If there is one thing we are very...good at? It is vengence...  he Motions to the door, and walks through. He looks at Di and Rolf, Rolf  Just shakes his head. There does not seem  to be anyone , overly interested.

 He walks out of the house, his smile seems to have faded a bit,..as we get closer to pleasure Street? We are more Likely to enounter....nastier  folks...just make certain, that if anyone dies?..it is not one of us...

 Ivy seemed  more at home   behind the walls  then Kree, his movements, a bit more fluid, more at ease.
This message was last edited by the player at 17:43, Sat 01 June 2013.

  the team moved  through open grass now a small river  emptied into the Storm..The Ivory  river that lead to Pike  Lake..near the Northern Wall..There was  a Huge slide, ont eh slide was an Ironmound frigate being worked on, as they tried to make it ready to join the fleet... Prisoners  crawling over it like ants well Guards, and  Guard animals kep.t watch.

 'The Seaweed Inn'..sat on the  edge of the Strom and Ivory, it too..was full and  loud  music and  voices could be ehard from there. They waited for the Ferry to take them across the Ivory , and then walked through the Vineyards and the Orchards  walking down a street  called 'Fruit  Street'. 'The TreeBark Inn' sat on the corner of  the South EAst way...the Drawbridge was to their right as they left Fruit Street, Ivy stopped  and pointed  North. lots of stuff that way...The Mercs Guild,  Horse breeders..and The BlackSmith shop of  Carl Oakmen...he is a retired  Arrow.

  They turned to the  west and walked across the drawbridge, way below some  sloops and schooners  drifted on the river..lights showed that , those who had  the coin..had parties at night on their boats...more then a few stories of those  who fell over  board, never to be seen again.

  Once over the bridge, they could see the Massive Mound, the Dwarves called home...the Rock that hit there when the gods  formed this world, was the Famed 'sky steel' weapons made of this seemed to last forever..and  cut, or hit, better then any dwarven or man-made  steel.

 A Dwarven weapon maker ( that ws the name of the shop..dwarves..go figure) shop sat on the edge of the Ave.  Silver way wound to the Mound, and  a Entrance  could be seen in the distance.. East River  navy and the  Guards   were behind them now,   a few bars close by....when they arrived at this end of the Road of Kings, they saw the Palace..but no entry over the moat from this side...Gold street, lead to the Mound...The main entrace to the Mound was here./..to theie left,the Road of Kings  ended at the Royal Army Barricks..the Huge  complex, was busy..even now..as  troops trained for night fighting and such.

  a lot of people Jammed the  Ave..some  looked over the small group, others  walked by..more then a few males, checked out the two warrior women.

 ..we're not far now.

In reply to Kree's group (msg # 145):

Ay ay, she said and instead of flying to the sky as she normally does, she fluttered just above everyones head and around them.  Scouting, seeking, watching everyone but still seemilingly to remain precariously interested and distracted by all that was around them.  She'd take mental note of what everything Kree mentioned as they passed, but she was more interested in windows, alleys, and hidden spots where a would-be attacker might lurk or an assassin.

In reply to Ivy's Group (msg # 151):

Laithia looked about what was once her home and her eye caught on something. Reaching under the bed, she pulls out the plain leather sheath that housed the dagger. Attaching it to her upper thigh, she looks over the well used but cared for knife. The edge gleams wickedly as she offers a cruel smile to Ivy her thoughts turning to what she would do with the dagger if she met Calise in a dark alley.

Slipping the knife into its sheath, Laithia gives one more sad look over her home. Walking to the door, she closes it the best she can before following the group. Her hand does not leave the hilt of the knife as they walk along the streets. Her normally flirty self is gone and the few men who let their eyes linger overlong get a rather angry sneer from Laithia as she links arms with Foril and walks alongside the elven magic user.

(OOC:Temple District)

"We could indeed stop at our own temples first...or were you thinking of looking for the Knights of Alpower, as there's no way to fake what we are?"

To Justin.

  Kree  listen to them, as they stood there, few gave a second look to Holy warriors standing  about near the  Road of Gods.

  The elf's eyes, went across the street, as he watched those who sat on chairs or the grass, enjoying  drink and talking, as they watched the crowds go by.

 ..make your Choices...and let us be on with it..the sands  run through the glass, at speed.

In reply to Termple Group (msg # 155):

Justin glanced at Kree then shrugged. To the temple of Eta first then. he declared heading towards it. upon reaching it he entered glanced about looking for any brethren in attendance.
This message was last edited by the player at 11:11, Sun 02 June 2013.

"Very well. Tra's temple is some distance off, so I'll meet you at the Alpower's temple in...hmmm...does 30 minutes sound sufficient."

He should pay his respects to his own faith...and drop off the donation from the purse they took from the childbeater while he's at it.

  Kree  follows  Justin to the Temple to Eta. They climb the stairs and are greeted by lower ranking Priests who are watching over the students, who are  sweeping the steps. Two men, a woman and  a Man stand Guard over  a  Large covered pot. a hole in the top allows people to drop in coin or gems for the church.

  One of the priests  sees Justin and  hurries over to him,Brother!... You come from fighting and and spreading Eta's name? he  bobs his head a bit, Kree drops  a pair of coins into the pot. The other priest moves over to him, mostly to see if the leather garbed elf is trying to steal something..until..he sees the  Gem arrow.....You wear the Mark of the Arrows...They, more then any company..spread Eta's Name!....have you been with them long?

 kree's wry half-smile grows a tad, as he nods  once,Aye...You might  say that... he Points to Justin.My Comrade needs  speak to the highest ranking  Follower of Eta, who might be about?

----------------------------------------------------------------------------

 Luthien has a fair walk ahead of him, to the end of the Raod of Gods, then a path that leads through the threes, to the group of Temmples, where Tra's House is.

Content with her Gods for the time being, she keeps watch over all that wander to the various Temples.  She flutters about hurriedly, but cautiously and alert.

In reply to Temples (msg # 158):

Justin greets his brethren confirms their statement and enquires if they thought the High Priest would have time to converse with him.

  The  Cleric Nods, with a Bow...The  High Priest has been gone, for a 10 day...She and some of  our warriors  made  a trip to Engar, to help them with Raids  from the Halfing Pirates.. There was a small temple in a village, not far from that city, that was destroyed...We sent some of our  own to help rebuild it...The  3rd is in charge of the Temple...He is in the Church as we speak..I am most certain he will speak with you...

  Kree Nods to Justin, he  will follow behind them.

In reply to Temple (msg # 161):

When they reached the third Justin bowed his head respectfully Greetings Brethren Mother One seeks a moment of Thy time to glean Thy thoughts about the leadership of another following.
This message was last edited by the player at 02:15, Tue 04 June 2013.

Luthien was quite content with his walk, for he was going to the house of his Goddess, and getting there would bring his soul great comfort.

  The 3rd returns his bow, . Her face loses its smile, after she speaks,..he waves the others  away and  motions  for Justin to follow her  closer to the front of the temple.. Kree  follows  a few steps behind, shrugging of  thre weak Grasp of  a temple guard.

  He  stops   a yard  or so from Justin and  The 3rd, easy within hearing, but not enough to threaten...when two other  guards make his  way towards him, Kree just reaches  for his Blade and  looks at them, shaking his head..'no'... They stop..but remain a few yards from him.

 Tell Me. Brother  of  Eta...who troubles you?

  Luthien walks  down the Clean paved street...many workers from all the temples, seem to take Pride in keeping the  Street clean..even to the point of  following  riders .

  All the Temples  have   Oil fires  Burning  , and even some magicval Lamps...he notes, as he  walks  Past  The Alpower's  Temple...that  the lights are not as Bright, as even Neta's Temple.

  They reach  Pleasure Street, that is too their left, off the Main Ave  with Darkness upon the  city, it is suprising how  lighted  tthis street is...a lot of Music from the  Two Houses on the street...many ...many people moving up and  down, going into, or behind the Houses...some of the other  Buildings and the Inns there have folks  standing or sitting out front.people are  standing on balconeys or the Roof tops  with Crossbows.

  Ivy looks tat his  comrades,..I seek one  woman in the Silver Hair...from what information she gives us?.will tell the tale, how our night will go...


 There are  2 thieves Guilds in this town....they hate each other...both..work with us...but neither will suffer the other to gain an upper hand....and..the Informer i seek...is not....what one would normally work with...do not  try to harm her....

 watch yourselves...and if someone tries to attack you...kill them....  with that, Ivy walks into the Silver   Hair...some of the women outside , eye up Rolf, and Foril...one even eyes  up Di...

  it is clear there are people  watching...three men are working their  way towards them..small necklaces around their necks, that sport a small Golden Horn

Luthien notices the attention to cleanliness, and that was good. He noticed the darker flames of Alpower's temple, however...and THAT was not good. He definitely needed to hurry to his own Order now. Such darkness as that meant the temple had serious issues.

In reply to Justin (msg # 164):

Brethren Mother, If Thee wouldst allow One a slight divergence from the topic, to introduce Captain Kree of the Crimson Arrows. He paused and indicated Kree.

If prompted to continue, he does We hath just attended a meeting of substantive Import, during which a Comrade at arms and Devotee of Trall sought to ascertain the outlook anst values the High priest of Alpower. Which were revealed to him as being darkly aspect. Considering the relationship that exists tweenst both Alpower and Trall such indication hath substantive cause for concern. As such One sought to apprise Thee of such outlook in the Leadership of Alpower.
This message was last edited by the player at 03:11, Tue 04 June 2013.

  The Woman Looked at Kree, a slight   smile, followed by a look that was, less then nice. We know  Captain Kree...He professes to follow Eta..while in the same Breath, praises then name  of Neta...

 Kree smiles, a mocking bow to the  Third.I praise  Harg as well...and Mina..but i see no one  having issues with that?...only a few of us, know  what a power  The sisters would be, together..

 The Third Looks away from Kree with distain,..the Alpower..has not been the same since the High Priest Visted the High Peaks, to try and get  more followers from the Fur Man's chain.

  passing all the other Temples, he makes his  way down the path at the End of the RAod of God, Going through the Trees, he sees Guards in the colors of their  Temples...here the fires  burn bright...the Temple of Tra's Golden Arrow  shining bright.

Laithia follows after Ivy not sure who this woman was but nodding in assent to not harming her. She keeps her arm intertwined with Foril's though her other hand strays to her knife on her thigh. She sees the men approaching and her body tenses a bit as she watches them closely. Any sudden movement and the elf is ready to pull out her blade as she continues to watch and see who was going to give them problems.

Luthien finally gets to enter his own temple.

The first thing he does, is make the donation of the purse he was given.

The second thing, is his prayer of thanksgiving and praise to Tra, as he takes his place.

He can converse with his Brother Knights shortly.

Justin wondered if the High Peaks were becomming infested with those of dark intent Wouldst the Fur Man be a slaver.

Foril remained relatively silent, it was the best way to keep from trouble... he tried to keep aware of their surroundings as well but moved slowly so as not to excite Laithia any more.  He had three daggers in easy access but fingered and hinted at none of them.  He also let his mind play upon the magical energies he was familiar with... they might need those on short notice as well.

  Two Knights, much as Luthen himself , watch the man make his  donation and devotions...In the Temple Itself are a few  acolytes who are saying Prayers...an arrow, about the Size of a Longbow, hangs  above the Alter..it is made of solid gold.

    there are a few followers of Tra there..apair of them are City Watch Archers...another pair are Human archers, dressed  Much  as Kree and Ivy.

.........................................................................

  The Third looks at Justin , the  at Kree. Kree smiles   , a good  Natured  smile,he has  not been  in our Lands, overly long..he signed with us, just off the ship, he has  yet to see where the Furt Man's Chain is...


  The Third  Bows , slightly to kree, as he gave the answer, she turned to Justin,As ironmound grew, those who sent people to help make it grow, still ahd their own lands to tend...Olant..is a port on the River...the leaders there..grew Greedy, and stay...independant..though their leanings  run towar4ds  Hargen...iSlavers  and Pirates trade openly there...our ships  are forbidden to attack them, with in a mile of  Olant...there are eben markers  set on the river  banks for that.... The  Furman's Chain,are the allied  small towns that have  pledged to Ironmound..indeed..their ancestors helped build it!..Boll...Thur..Trader's rest  and Yad..Run  from Olant to the Widow River....Thur is used for most of the trade goods, as far as river traffic....Boll, has the Highway with the Ironmound Reststops spread out along the way (( see map )).

 Now...My Brother? what questions have you?
This message was last edited by the GM at 21:30, Tue 04 June 2013.

  Ivy comes out the Door with a slender woman..what little she is  wearing is of  black, her  skin pale...My Friends? This is NAra..she  was once an Arrow....

  Nara smiled, shyly...Fangs  showed  in her smile...The three men with the Golden Horn Necklaces stopped as they saw NAra..and Backed away...watching them.

In reply to Temples (msg # 175):

Justin nods Hath Thee been informethed of the Missing Princess. Perchance Thee Temple hath recieved a petition for assistance to locate her

  The Third  Looked at Justin, then  to Kree. Kree merely Shrugged.we have heard of someone , of Import, missing from Mouri...whether she be a Princess? Is  quite Unknown to us....some of the Temples  were asked for aid, but  the information they provided, was next to useless.

In reply to Temples (msg # 178):

Aye such be what one hath been informed by the Trall High Priest.

  well? You know Trall's people...they see foes at every turn....i suppose you cannot have a war, without  Foes? she smiled at her own Joke, she looked at Kree...Kree didn't seem to be  smiling.

 ..The Alpower has been making  some noise, the last month or so...Priests going to the Palace for parties of all sorts...rubbing elbows  with Military and Council folks alike...
This message was last updated by the GM at 02:01, Wed 05 June 2013.

Luthien first turns to his brother Knights after his prayers.

"Hail, Brothers. How go things in the city?"

 The  Two Knights  shake their heads, the older one speaks,..it is a city..that is the ebst i may say. If it were not  for the honor of serving as a temple guard..I woiuld rather be out, Making Tra's name be known!

Luthien nods...that's about what he'd expected.

"That said...Brothers, have you heard...or sensed...anything odd from Alpower's temple recently? My assignment, as you probably already know, is to Hunt the slavers alongside the Arrows. A beneficial arrangement...my presence helps keep them from unnecessary bloodlust, and we stop many slavers from plying their trade.

But when His Imperial Majesty invited us to the Palace, I saw someone...at least dressed in the robes of Alpower there, along with some other high priests. What was unusual, though...as I stood to the side, I decided to check for darkness, for the intrigues of a court are many. And I found it, there in the robes of one who claims to be under Alpower's guidance. Worse, the flames of Alpower's temple seem to be burning a darker flame, darker, even, then Neta's. The character of the Gods seldom, if ever, changes...but men use deception all the time. I have no evidence of what's going on, other then then whoever was wearing those robes could not hide the stain of darkness on his soul."

He is careful to phrase it as 'dressed in the robes of.' As his current working theory is that priests of another god or goddess, one of the dark ones, has infiltrated Alpower's temple, and is posing as his priests.

  The two Knights look at each other, the older one speaks again,..Those of the Alpower...have been making a point to show up, at many a gathering , of those of Influence....I talked to a Lady Warrior of the Alpower last week...she seems to think, that  those in charge, wish the Alpower to  be...'the true god'...of Ironmond.

 At this  the Younger night speaks up,That flies in the face of the very base, of Ironmound's beginings...all of those who banned together, to make this great city..forge an Empire that stands  for   the Light?....it is not the  way of our city, to squash other  gods...we allow the Orc  temple..in there  section of town..the Darker gods even have Temples in the city itself!...to make the Alpower teh only god?..would mean, the rest would  be shunned..maybe even driven..from the city..

Luthien takes that in.

"Hmmmm. I don't think that idea comes from Alpower Himself. He's never asked that of his followers before, and I doubt he suddenly changed his mind. This is mortal ambition, which would explain the dark flames. Alpower never wanted his children and grandchildren to get less then their due. It also explains the darkness, as such priests are no longer working for the whole like they normally do."

Hmmmmm.

"That does mean, however, that they probably aren't imposter priests of another god masquerading as Alpower priests, as I'd originally feared to be the case. Just priests in love with their own egos. It's a wonder Alpower still lets them pray for spells."

He'd have thought Alpower would put a stop to that kind of nonsense by not granting spells, as if the dark flames weren't clear warning enough.

   ..to me?..the Gods are just as bad as Humans...they wanty power..they get power from worship...

"I suppose. The gods tend to be static, though, so I tend to blame mortal failings before I blame the gods. If investigations turn out that the Alpower really has changed his stance, then that's something all the Temples need to be aware of, immediately."

Because that would be a major change.

  the Younger Knight says,..the Alpower has been losing ground to some of the Other Gods...Eta, and Neta for the Most part......I hear, even gods  get Jealous.

"Hmm. I think I need to talk to the High Priest. If it really is Alpower Himself that's changed his doctrine...that's bad, and it's going to be not just here, but worldwide."

Hmm.

"Is the High Priest here?"

  The older knight shakes his head,..no..He and the   Master of the trail ( #2  Guy) left on a mission to the   Furman's chain...But the Master of  Track is here..She is at the altar, gettting it ready for  the High Priest's return.

Luthien nods.

"Thank you, brother Knights. This is far more serious then I had imagined..."

He heads, then, for the Mistress of Track, who was preparing the Altar, and waited to be acknowledged.

Foril raised an eyebrow, "At the risk of being rude... Why did you leave the Arrows?"  He was trying not to jump to conclusions.  He was a tad uncomfortable because... well... he imagined that the gold horns had similar 1st impressions.  Really... he imagined now would be the best time for them to attack.  If Nara was a vampire then blood, fresh and vital might be enough to distract her and make her unable to assist, even causing her to perhaps hold the wounded and drink.

The real issue becomes what if it is only one of the half dozen ways he could think of to fake the appearance.  Then there's a showing of some power, and it left a good deal uncertain.

  Nara Looked at Foril..it is  a long  Story...I was hurt, while on a mission with Kree and Ivy....i was saved  by one of the people, kree had saved  when he  brought a unit in to  destroy a slaver ring...saddly..the price for my life...was high.

 Ivy looked down at his Boots as she  spoke, he then looked at the others,there is something....bad..going on...Nara has some Info..but..whats to deliever  it at the Plank...The Golden Horn has been bought off..seems they are attackign ..selected  targets...

In reply to JT (msg # 180):

Aye if Trall be permitted to co-exist with the other Divines it be beyond the scope of mortals to question such. Justin replied as he considered the situation May one enquire if Thee hath wondereth why both Eta's Principal and Secondary Brethren be absent form Ironmound at such time.

  The  Third  just shook her head,..I think all the Temples  sent thier High Priest and their second, on this ...trip..was only to take a ten-day or so...

In reply to JT (msg # 195):

Justin was surprised by this revelationAll temples hath no Principal anst Seconds, doth such also apply unto Alpower

    The Third shook her Head,..there was a council of the Gods....so-to-speak..The Alpower is the only one who sent  his ...Third....all others  sent thier High Priest and thier second....

In reply to JT (msg # 197):

Justin considered for a moment deliberating how best to phrase his thoughtsIf One may, Were Thee party unto such Council, if so wast it indeed of the Divine or be it instigated by the High Priest of Alpower.

In reply to Pleasure St (msg # 193)

Laithia nods to Nara. Her eyes continue to look about not liking the words Ivy speaks after she finishes with her brief tale. "Then let's get the hell out of here. We are much safer at the Plank anyway. Plus I am feeling a bit itchy and if people keep staring at us someone is going to lose their eyes," she says a touch of hostility in her voice as she takes a deep breath and waits for them to leave.

Luthien continued to wait on the pleasure of the priestess.

  The Priestess turned to Luthien when she and her  acolytes where finished...Son of the Hunt?...What can i do  for you?

 Ivy Looks at the others,we need to elave now....Nara need to either  stay at the Plank tonight, or get back to The House, before Daybreak...


 Ivy suddenly turns  and Looks in the direction of  the nearest , of the Golden Horn Thieves,..Unless  you want me to get you something to eat..before  we go?


 The Golden Hoen fellow, backs  up quickly, stumbling over  a Barrel that a Beggar was using to  do the 'shell game' on...fights  broke  out amoung the  Bettors and the Golden Horn.

 Time to leave..aye?

 The woman gave a frown,..it appears, each Temple thinks...that there are many followers to be had...thus, gaining power for their god....only the Alpower, has not sent his people on this mission.

"I thank you for your time. I've been informed the others are away...and my Brother Knights have informed me of some disturbing things concerning Alpower's temple...that the God himself has actually changed. I sensed darkness in his followers, and I've never sensed that before. At first, I thought they were priests of another deity masquerading as Alpower...but..."

But that's not what his Brother Knights think...

  The woman turns, and begins to straighten  wrinkles in the altar cloth, that aren't there...The Alpower is changing....The  Alpower....whats to be..the one god....some travelers, from  across Great Mist..have brought such foolsih ideas...imagine..one god?...trying to take care of all the world's aspects?...who would  reign over the darkness then?...or..would such a god need to be as evil, as they are good?

 she shakes her head with a nervous laugh...but...there is been odd things happening...People are  beginning to ...pick sides.... Rumor Has it, that Hargen's Dark Gods , are aligning to Fight the Alpower..what would happen if they would win?...would our own Gods be able to hold thier powers?...it is unsettling..at best.

"Hmmm. I know we aren't in favor of the idea...that's why I'm sensing darkness. I wonder if it's possible to return Alpower to his senses, to the way he was before? Beyond our ability, maybe, but..."

Hmmmm.

"If the dark ones won, we'd have to be ready to fight immediately, or they'd cover the world in darkness immediately. Alpower used to be the arbiter, but if he's no longer impartial..."

This could be really, really, bad.

  The  Thrid  shook her head  once more..her voice dropped to a whisper,..There are Priests, who are making visits to other  Temples, to speak with each other, as to joining, agianst the Alpower..should he turn completely..and Join the Gods  of HArgen..

In reply to JT (msg # 203):

Justin considers the ramifications All temples hath undertaken the same mission at the same time. Whilst darkness infests the temple of Alpower anst the Emperors Guard. Doth Thee suspect such to be an ideal opportune to strike at those who would prevent or resist Evil. One may be in error but such appeareth to be viable. If such be, wouldst our brethren be capable of resisting an assault, anst what of other associated temples.
This message had punctuation tweaked by the player at 08:38, Sat 08 June 2013.

Luthien thought...

"So we're gathering allies, presenting a united front against the darkness. All the gods and goddesses of light..."

This is going to be big...

  The Master of the track looked  at Luth,Unlike  Hargen, we are an Open city, any god that can afford to build a Temple  may have one, if the  land  is there to make one...because of that....even the gods of the dark, have houses here.

  she looks at Luthien,..it may have been one of the  smartest things the Emperor's grandfather did...This is  their home, as well as any other god's..thus..at least for now..they have combined and sent their people out togther..

 no one god..wants to see another God..take over all the powers..all aspects  of life..it is ...insane!

  The Third  shakes her head,there would be battles and terror in the streets...I would assume..the gods  would unite to fight the Alpower...nbut..should things go baddly...the weaker gods would begin to....make deals...and side with the Alpower..hoping they would have a chance to live..and keep something , of their followers..

 we search..for the cause...there is something out there...something that has poisoned the Alpower's mind....or..the Alpower is insane..and seeks  to be the One god...either way...it needs be stopped.

"That's true. I never expected to be fighting alongside the armies of the dark ones...but if Alpower continues on this mad quest of his, that's exactly what'll happen, isn't it?"

Mindblowing, that idea.

  ....That ..IS..what exactly will happen...The Alpower  still grants his  people his Favors...but..when someone who is  not a normal follower..he might look the other way..if it is one of the Stronger Gods...or lend a hand, if it is one of the gods,who might support him...Eat..Neta...Tra..Harg..even Kar! have been standing up to him...Followers  of those gods, seem to be going out of thier way to...to...HArvest..the darkness from our lands!

 She Pulls him aside,with each dark person, that dies..that god gets  a tiny bit weaker...just as they Grow , when they gain a new follower...Have you ever heard  of Neptune?  she laughs,when my mother was a little girl, some strange ships  came to LAynak through the  Great Mist!..they brought with them thier  beleifs...oen..was their God of the sea..Neptune... Lennus's followers out weighed them 1000 fold..then you add to that, the  followers who pray or give  donations  in time of need or want?...Neptune was driven back through the Great Mists, in a Battle that almost killed the strange god..Lennus became even more powerful, as she sucked some of the Life from him....

 shaking her head,..times are getting  hard..and  we must be ready...fight the dsarkness when you can..and hope....The GAthering..is not stopped by the Alpower...

Foril nodded, "I can provide some enchantment or at least my robe to protect her if daybreak sneaks up on this place... In the future I imagine our enemies in the Horn or those attached to them, will be packing spells to that effect... I cannot stop an army of spellcasters."

That said the elf mage turned to leave, and tried to stay tightly together with the others.

"Stopped? That may be difficult, even for him. If enough stand against him, there's only so much he can do. But if he wishes to stop it anyway, he may provoke a battle he is not yet ready for. But is such a battle good, or bad? I do not know who can be ready faster...we or him."

It's a lot of smaller beings taking on a single bigger one. Like adventurers against a dragon.

  She Pulls Luthien  away from the alter, looking at his eyes  for a full measure  before she says,..the Gods...are the gods....but...HArgen HAs Gods as well..and only a few of them, are the same we worships...The Alpower is one of them...it is said, that even the Red Isles have  Alpower temples...image..if the Gods of HArgen, allied with The Alpower...

"That...might not end well for us. We'd be outgunned at the least, and very possibly outnumbered. I wonder...if anyone's contacted celestials yet..."

Part of Luthien's mind wandered the Archons and Eladrin and Guardinals...and the Angels who are even stronger then the rest...and if Heaven's might could do some good.

In reply to JT (msg # 211):

Unless persuaded otherwise, affore such possibilities could eventuate.

  Ivy Ushers Nara along,..Let us go....Kree and the others  will have to meet the Wizard and Witch alone, if they need to...right now..we need to Get Nara to  The Plank...

  Kree Looks at Justin  and Jerks his ehad towards the Door. He moves out the  door and down the steps, it is plain, he is going to Neta's  Temple.

............................

 The  Third chuckles, then realizes Luthien was serious, the Celestials?..The gods' playthings..the boot lickers of the Heavans? If it comes  down between Mortals  and thier gods?..who are they going to side with? Who are they going to protect?

Seeing that Kree was rounding up those that had departed to their temples briefly, she fluttered down to see if there was anything she needed to do.

Need me to get any one so we can tarry along? she asked.

Luthien...sighed.

"That doesn't necessarily mean they'll side with Alpower. The beings of heaven are creatures of good...how orderly they may be varies by type, but they're still beings of light. If some gods wallow in darkness, they'll ally with the gods opposing that darkness."

  As he moved down the stairs, he cut  right across the lawns towards  neta's Temple, The Guards of Both  Temples seemed taken  aback by this, He says to  Riku,As soon as Luthien returna, we head back to the Plank..I am thinking, we are peeling away some of the wrappings of this package...


......................

 The third  smiles slightly at Luthien,we may only hope, that is true. But in the End, Thier Gods made them , and gave them power...to turn on their god? Would be like you turning on Tra? Tell my?...would you turn on your god?

"Never. I'm just saying that not all celestials were created by Alpower. The ones that weren't may be worth consulting."

Alpower couldn't have done all the work...

Aye, you have the right of it...each of the gods, made their own toys, those  puppets will dance to whom pulls the strings...  The third  shrugs,not much difference between them and  a Knight, they all serve who gave them power...

"In that case...wouldn't it be possible the servants of heaven know things we don't? They're immortal, after all...I still think they'd be worth talking to. I may be wrong, of course, but there's little harm in asking."

Worth a shot, right?

Dras slowly rode her horse trough the streets. It was well apparent that she was a warrior among the crowds that filled the street, not only by her dark outfitted leather armor and cloak, but her horse bared the scars from the battle with the catfolk. She didn't pay to much attention to the goings on of the city as she headed towards the market area.

Rayna was tired of riding, and Dras was no good at being company the whole trip to the city. "Oh thank the gods we finally made it." She gave her horse a light tap on the sides to quicken its pace to line up with Dras. "I'll see you shortly, I have to stop at the temples to give my offerings to them." Without waiting another moment she trotted off towards the temples. She knew Dras wasn't going to respond to her.
This message was last edited by the player at 10:57, Sat 15 June 2013.

  As  Rayna  walked  down the Road of Gods, She would see Kree crossing the  Lawn from  Eta's  House, towards  Neta's... Justin is tak=lking to  a Cleric at Eta's...Luth is out of sight behind the trees of the road  where several smaller temples are set up...

  Riku flutters  along behind Kree

In reply to Ivy's Group (msg # 219):

Laithia follows after Ivy keeping careful watch as they move along. She is extra alert not knowing what may await her personally here in the city. So much having happened leaving her feeling a bit overwhelmed as she kept pace with Ivy and Nara.

Diana went to two temples to pay her respects, and leave her tithe.  First, she paid a visit o Trall, the god of war.  She remembered an old priest once preaching that there are only three levels of loyalty that matter.
First was to the unit.
Second was to one's god or gods.
Third was to one's own principals.

The third one seemed to clash with the second, but when that happened, the unit always was to come first.  Didn't always happen that way, but that was how it was supposed to go.

So, Diana went to the temple of Trall, to pay her respects and tithe to the God of war.
Then she went to the temple of Tra, the goddess of the hunt.  Here she would spend a moment longer.

When she was done, she went to find the others.

In reply to Kree's Group (msg # 220):

Justin's discussion with the Third answered many questions, and raised twice as many questions which regrettably time prevented him from clarifying. Thanking the Brethren Mother he spent several minutes praying to Eta for guidance. Once his devotions were given he exited the temple, joining the others.

  After a few  Moments in Neta's Temple. Kree walked  down to the Road of Gods...He  waited on the others, His Bow across his shoulders, a hand resting on each end.

  the group closed in on the docks, they had passed the  area where  Laith's house was, and  walked up the Dicks, towards the Plank...

Rolf continues in the rear guard as they head back to the Plank.  He didn't like the city, in the company of the fanged, amid the intrigue....  "Be glad to have this business behind us."

Justin strolled down the street heading towards their next destination. The amount of intreque and sin rampant in this is place is almost as vile as a nest of vipers he mused quietly

As Luthien spoke with his priestess, he actually noticed Diana come by the temple of his Goddess, and acknowledged her as she came through with a nod.

   As Kree waited on the   Road Of Kings, he waved to Justin, and Riku,we shall give  Luthien a bit longer, if he does not  return, we will move towards the Temple of Tra...

Riku fluttered down as she saw Kree motion to her and Justin.

Very well, Captain, she said and remained at a more eye level to await Luthien.

After Luthien finished the conversation in his temple, he headed to the temples of Eta and Neta, where he figured the Commander and Sir Justin were likely to be. He'd probably find them there or on the, he wasn't sure which.

   Seeing   Luthien and Diana at the end of the  road, where a path leads to the  other Temples, Kree  waves to the others to head towards them.Time to head  back...we shall have to see the  Old Wizard, or the Witch another time...

In reply to Kree Quickshadow (msg # 241):

Captain Kree wouldst the purpose oft visiting both Old Wizard, anst Witch beith to seeketh their council. If tis so be they receptive to suggestiong a meeting tweenst Thee anst Them within yon Inn. he suggested
This message was last edited by the player at 23:01, Mon 24 June 2013.

  As they walked towards   Luthien and Diana, Kree  laughed a bit,...if the Wizard and The witch leave thier compounds, we would  never know it...and woe be it, to those  whom they seek...They  protect the city, and themselves.....appearing at the Plank? I do not see that , as happening...

In reply to Kree Quickshadow (msg # 243):

Justin nodded acknowledging this interesting information.

  when the reached Luthien and  Diana, Kree Motioned back the  way they came,We  take  this way back to The Plank. If not  for the ship leaving in the morning, I would venture a visit to the Wizard, or the Witch, but...we have no time for that now....

Riku fluttered close to him.  What about whom we are to visit? she asked curiously.

  Kree took a moment to look up at the sky and marked the stars,our time withered, we needs get back to The Plank, Ivy should have  the Information  by now...and if not?..we shall have to find them....and still make the ship in the morning...

  The group moves  through the streets, Kree not stopping to talk or acknowledge any  people who might hail them. Even the Dullest person in the city, could see  a few people on the edge of the  Northwest Raod, following them..even while trying to act as though they were not.

  A Carriage came out of  The Road Of Kings, as the  group was passing By, Thopugh the passengers where in Deep conversation, Kree pointed out to the others, that one of the people  in the carriage was the Officer he had problems  with..he could not see the other person, but  assumed it was a woman.

Riku nodded and fluttered above everyone but not without of normal tone range.  She'd spot and search for any would be attackers and alert the group if necessary.

Rolf continues along, trailing towards the end of the group as rear guard.  His eyes continue to range about, keeping an eye on those about.

In reply to Luthien (msg # 237):

Diana nodded back to Luthien.

She was still troubled by the information she had learned.
She talked briefly to a priest, thinking, maybe verbalizing her doubts would somehow shed light on things, but it didn't really help.  What was bothering her was till just on the edge of her mind, and she couldn't put a finger on it.
It was frustrating.

In the end, she asked the goddess for guidance in the field of battle, and that she guide her hand in slaying her enemies.

With that, she left 10 gold, and was on her way.

Manny casually walked a bit further down the city streets until the crowd began to thin. The wealth of the residents had improved slightly, but not by much. After five minutes of walking with a vaguely threatening, grin on his face he pulled up next to a store front and began to pretend to window shop. The supposedly Gold plated, ceramic dinning ware was almost certainly over price this close to the Docks.

He was not concerned with city officials as much as he was about foolish criminals. His appearance was carefully crafted to give three impressions. He looked like he never worked a day in his life, he lived above the means of most merchants, and that he was used to getting what he wanted. His father always told him the best lies where mostly true. His father loved talking about and getting over on people. Manny knew himself well enough that he recognized his father's obsessive and prideful nature in himself.

He touched his belt buckle out of habit. It was steel and looked vaguely like an eye and a mouth at the same time. Manny tapped the center of his forehead and mumbled a few things to himself with a frown. A second later he walked back the way he came to a boring, and vaguely decrepit building with a poorly etched wooden sign that advertised, "The New Romantics Expensive Flowers." Manny smiled to himself, pulled the door open, and walked in.
This message was last edited by the player at 02:59, Thu 26 Sept 2013.

  There  was  a Small Human woman there. she looked up as the  bell above the  door  jingled. There  were flowers in  Vases, some inside Glass  cases, Under those  cases were Blocks of Ice  Brought down from the High Peak Mountains, or brought up from  under the Mound itself.

  The woman looked at the  strange fellow,..might i help you, sir?

Manny glance around him casually looking for something Purple to match his vest. Or perhaps a dark Blue to contrast it. He could not recall if he had seen any flowers since he stepped off the ship. Apparently the people here where not into gardening. He examined the woman in front of him and the desk she was sitting at in an attempt to insure he wouldn't be stabed in the back as soon as he turned to leave. "I am looking for something to match my vest," he said with a charming smile.

  the woman looked at him with a furrowed brow,well..if you go  down the streets to the  North, You'll come to the bazzarr..the might have....tights...if that's what you are looking for...we just have  flowers  and powered seeds  and such

"Perhaps I will travel there later," he stated clearly amused by the woman before him. "I was more interested in buying some Dark Blue flowers." He gazed around the store openly looking for anything that would catch his eye.

  she   thought  for a moment, ..There are the Blue Irisis form the North of Laynak..they are hearty flowers... and by the window  are the  Blue Sun Catchers, they Come from the  KArth Swamp...hard to get...not many folk venture there to gather them.

Manny listened carefully to the Woman as she spoke. He walked to towards the window he glanced own at the Blue Sun Catchers. With all due reverence demanded by plants of such beauty he knelled so that the flowers were an inch under his nose. Slowly he inhaled the potent fragrance. The light and fresh aroma swam through body with the grace of an Elven worshiper of Poseidon. "I will buy a dozen," he stated as he rose to his feet. "Three with the stems and nine with only the bulbs." Manny snapped his fingers on his left hand, then his right and his left again.

 Looking at him a bit strangely  , she nods and   heads over to the   Container, Picking the  Three best of the stemmed  flowers, , Then call into the back for the Bulbs.

  An Older man with  Glasses and a leather  apron  comes  out in a bit, He has  a  small Tin...I gotcha  10 Bulbs in there, If one  don't  take...They are packed in some of the dirt from their Home land..should last you a bit . Until you can plant them proper...

 the woman takes  a small Burlap Sack and places the Tin in it,she  cakes  the  three stemmed  flowers  and carfully wraps the stems in  some light, but coarse paper.

 ..Right then? That will be 1 gold  4 silvers....

Manny pays the 1 GP and 4 Silver. He nods to the pair, then gathers his goods then happily walks out of the shop. Once he is outside he immediately travels right. It is a bit darker now. As he glances up at the night sky and briefly observes the stars above. He is happy to head toward the tavern/Inn for his eyes are now weary and his body is tired from his long journey.

The darkening sky above did not trouble Manny as he place two flowers into the tow right pocket of his Royal Purple vest. The sky flickered between midday and midnight at it's own leisure. He was well past the point of ignoring such occurrences at this time of night. After a while he turned sharply south and noticed a distinct change in the environment. He observed more well build structures and an increase in the differently employed. He was sure this was the part of the city he needed to be in.

  making his  way  east ward, then rounding the  Cormnr  and Heading South. Manny is struck  by a great many things..

 1st...there are all manner of  Folk in this  town..even Halflings. But the HAlflings that are here a smaller, and have darker  hair then those  of the Red Isle/

 2nd...there are Orcs who walk about they even have weapons...he has heard folks  talking about  the 'orc section' in the  Northewest Corner of the City..he even sees the Orc Cart getting coin from  an InnKeeper, as they toss a dead patron onto the wagon.

 After crossing over the  Drawbridge, going past the   Army barracks  he sees crowds going in, or going out of  a side street to the North...the Red Lights on two of the Buildings...seem to give  him a clue as why.

Manny continues on his destination while casually observing the inhabitants around him. He was not bothered that the inhabitants carried weapons openly. He much preferred they did so instead of concealing them. He glanced at his boots and frowned slightly. When he got to where he was going he would be sure to clean himself before entering. The Orcs pushing the cart through the streets momentarily caught his attention. Where he was from they treated the dead with more respect. Of course there where times when that respect was not genuine, but the effort always meant something. He did not often see Hafling's in his home town. He always fond them to be as trust worthy as anyone else.

   As he walked past the  road  that lead to the  Inns..the  sign says Pleasure ST. The  redlights on two of the Buildings  do not leave anything to the Imagination.

   He notes, as he  keeps walking  to the  South. three people separate themselves  from the  Crowd on the corner...two Huamns  walks about 10 yards behind.  a Halfling,covered up with a bit of ragged clothing, has  crossed the  Broad Avenue, and shadowed Manny from there...

Manny grinned mischievously to himself as he noticed he was being followed by at least three people. For half a minute he wondered how he was going to deal with them. He noticed the crowd of human men drunkenly walking out of Pleasure St. onto the main road. He reached into the component pouch that rested near his bottom left rib and pulled out a few locks of his own hair. He walks casually into the center of the group, while mirroring their body language. Manny focuses on the hairs in his hand and mumbles the words "Igstusal fillum, uyrton squet neretos." His eyes begin to tickle and  the crowd he is in blurs slightly as even Manny loses track of himself. Suddenly there are four Manny's dispersed evenly throughout the crowd of inebriated loud men.


10:58, Thu 10 Oct 2013: Manny Mestave rolled 3 using 1d4+1 ((2)).

  The   shadows stop...except  for the HAlfling, that Moves along with the Crowd. His eyes  watching everymove, of  every Manny...One of the other   run down the road, past the HAlfling..and going further  down the street.

Manny observes that there was one person still following behind him and one ran off ahead. Becoming slightly more serious begins to emit a soft note from the pit of his diaphragm while simultaneously bringing his left fist over his heart while grasping at his left wrist with his right hand. He then cuts the note off abruptly as he points his left index and middle finger at the person following behind him. Manny immediately begins to feel a light connection to the emotions of the Hafling. He and his Mirror Images turn to face him. They smile and say in unison, "You and your friends should get off the street. It's very dangerous out here tonight."

  the  Spell goes off...the HAlfling  looked  shook..at first, then  his eyes narrow, as he  grasps something under his  ragged  clothes.

  His HAnds  signal something to each of the other  two...far  down the road, in the direction , that  the 'mannys' were going ..there are 2  sharp, shrill metal whistle....

15:26, Mon 14 Oct 2013: Manny Mestave rolled 1 using 1d20 ((1)). Perception Check.

   Manny hears the whistle..He notes the HAlfling's...less-then-friendly stare, since he tried the spell.

  Being New to the City, he has no real clue where the Witch's Cpmpound is, though , thoser who  gave him  directions  , did say If he Traveled to  Witch's  Way...and Followed the road, it would take him to her compound..if he dared  go.

  Righty now..The Skirts Inn, that sat on the  Eastern corner of  the Soutwest-Way, was some  100m yards behind him... The Shop, 'Gems and Trinkets'  was just about even with him on his left ( as he traveled  South)

Across the wide Avenue was 'The Golden Blade  Inn' on the Corner of Ax St and Southwest Way ( Hammer St Appeared to lead to the Mound.  'The Iron MAce' sat on the Corner of   Hammer St and  SW WAy...The Silver Dagger..sat on the Corner of ace St..and SW way..and   'The Crossed  Spears'..on Flail St and SW Way...all were on the  Westrn stide of the  Ave. All seem to lead in the direction of  The Mound.

 Looking back to his  left,,He  could see  some larger tres set behind the Inns and Houses  there..there were some 'nicer homes'  (4) on his left..and it appeared to be another Inn past them, But he could not be sure..If he stopped and looked backwards..The Raod Of Kings ( east)..was busy as well as that  raod  Lesd to the PAlce Fortifaction to the  west, and the Rolay Barricks   at the end of the road to the  east.  The  Road leading to the Place Grounds (walls) had  a short Street Called  Gold Rd...it  lead straight into the Mound itself.

 the Ave was Busy..the Slabs of  Rock  set into place  by the  Dwarves echoed   cart  wheels  and   hard soled Boots...some  converstaions   added to the  noise of the Night

The rapid casting of a few spells was beginning to tire the young, handsome Witch and cause him to lose focus. The world around him had a very mild blur to it that he had long since associated with the beginning of the evening. He could feel the pull from Hulshurha the all knowing, greedy, and telling being from whom he received the fundamentals of his magical abilities just three winters ago. Sweat ran rampant down from the crown of his shoulder length Cherry hair. It traveled down his neck to the center of his back under his White top and Purple vest. It cascaded over his forehead and traversed into his eyebrows threatening to hinder his sight further.

The four multiple Manny's clenched their jaws tight and attempted to kick their stalker hard enough between the legs to lift him off the ground.

20:14, Mon 14 Oct 2013: Manny Mestave rolled 1 using 1d20 ((1)).

  The Human would be the closest, Manny could Attack, hwoever..it  seems the  fellow was a wee bit  Clumsy, his  foot missed the man, who grabbed his Foot  and Flipped...Manny Fell on his back....The Man's Blade was at his throat..The HAlfling was muttering something...as  the  'other Manny's' Vanish...the Halfling as  a dark Grin on his face...

 Retruning to Ironmound after    recovery  of  'package"

    As they  group makes its  way towards the   Door, the    Twisted  Snake  people   walk their way,  with   scores  of others, over the  drawbridge of the huge   stone  road. The ships  coming  in  were small enough that they did not need the  drawbridge up.

    Kree  gets everyone to gather around  Him, he hands   2 Pins  to the Ladies in waiting and Slips and arrow  Necklace over the  Princess's head. She tucks it inside her tunic. The  maidens  seem excited  about it.

 The Princess nods..This will add, good cover, indeed.

  It is not  for pure  cover, though i would   lying if i said it was not. YOu ladies   have carried yourself  well, though the  events  that we have brought you through. So... I will say this....As Arrows, you wear the   Arrow proudly. Should the  time Come, you wish to not be considered an Arrow, please ...send, or bring the Pin back to Reedrick at  The Plank... Most of the Pins  have been worn, by many an Arrow. Some..have died in Battle, Some had retired from the fight... but each time a new person, takes up a pin, those  people  get to fight..a little longer.....should  an arrow be lost, and the Pin not reclaimed... then the  whol 'line' of that Pin, rests in peace....like..the Dwarf who died with his boat.....

  Now  we  move to the   south west..., i think none will take Notice of out actions, until we go down the Road Of Kings..foir good..or ill.. a runner is  already on the qway to the Palace, so the Emperor knows  we are  coming..out  runner  will reaxch the  Palace  well ahead of anyone else..so... any who opposes  us... will be seen for what they are...Let us go...

Luthien considers something.

"With the commander's permission, I'd recommend you hold onto those long after you return to your normal lives. You may find, over the course of the future, that you need something the military cannot provide. The Arrows may be able to help you with that. And it might not even be you, either. The Commander will long outlive all of us, barring combat related fatalities, and it could well be your children or even grandchildren need a favor someday."

In reply to Streets (msg # 274):

Congratulating the New Arrows who have been handed their pins Justin would normally given each a courtly bow but this isn't the time or place for such; he contents himself with if permitted to offer his hand to each in greetings.
This message was last edited by the player at 23:37, Sun 13 Mar 2016.

     The Crowds. mostly  ignore the group. Units  of  Company Mercs  were a common  sight. These   Appeared   to be  walking  down South-West Way the   Temples  and Library and such were  way in the   south west corner.. there were plenty of Inns  and Taverns, so  they were not out of place.

  The tall  magic  Balls of light that lined the  Road Of KIngs was getting closer. Thtere were, of course,  Guards posted  at that road. The only road  as wide as the Avenues that  ringed the city.

   One fool  Bumped into IVY, and was rewarded  with his arm  grabbed  and  twisted round His Back. Ivu hend out   His   other hand, and the   thief  put a Purse  back into his hand... Ivy whispered something into his ear, and the fellow   ran off..

 more then a few folks, a couple of the City Watch, laughed at this   and the Group continued, Ivy made to look as if he was counting what is  in the purse.

 Kree asked,Well?

   He  says...Big Party tonight... The Wine  Merchant's Daughter  is engaged to marry Sir Ockland..the   Paaldine of  Oleen... The Emperor is   a family friend of both, so he  used this as an excuse to have  a Big party.. do we wait until  the Morning?

 Kree laughed  outloud,..My Dear Cousin? This is  more then we can ask......it does not mean it will not be  hard, but  we will have everyone there..we need to see  ...Helga... return.....

In reply to making thier way (msg # 277):

Sounds it'll be a good showing. Cousin Kree do you think the Emperor will mind us dropping in to deliver the bad news. She asked with a mischievous grin

Luthien frowns.

"Not that the danger is gone once she's home. She ended up in this situation in the first place after all. While the traitor is gone, there are other avenues those with wealth have available."

 The Emperor is  not  an Idiot. Though he does  have his  Bad  days...

 "Helga'   says,..hey!....

  Kree smiles without looking at her,..it is but, the Truth, good Helga. He  has  taken to rely on advisors, he rarely sees the lands.  My 'village' If you would unmask it from the trees,  is not much smaller the Tou, yet  we are more feared.. The Council  makes  trips weekly, about the Black Timber and the  surrounding area. to see for them selves, the plight  of  farmers, and where  raiders may be coming from... You have seen , just a taste.... had i not feared for your life, I would have  taken you to see Olant...and there you would  see the wounds  That Fester in our lands..

 There Guards, Have to let us in, I have the  contract signed by the Emperor... i doubt..very much, if we will be overly welcome,  But there will be a tiny handful who will be glad to see us.....As for the Emperor . Nelk will show if   they picking of  dark  advisors ...has  tainted him...

  They walked  down the Middle of the Road  of  Kings, Carraiges    went by in a hurry, as the party had started..late  comers   shouting at their  Drivers.  Guards  watched the armed  Group and  one runner from each side of the road  took off in a sprint towards the  Bridge.

  ...And....so it begins...... Ivy said  sofly as he saw the runners.

Lafisual tries to remain alert and vigilant.  Being relatively new to the group he isn't too sure of protocol so for now he remains silent, watchful, and ready to react as the situation dictates.

In reply to Streets (msg # 274):

Kr'wyn kisses the Maid he had accompanied the whole day: "Congratulations with your rise to full Arrow!" The Miad blushes and doesn't know how to react immediately. She decides to give him a playfull push away.
This message was last edited by the player at 21:06, Wed 16 Mar 2016.

Justin considers the Captains statement and nods, as he speculates how this would explain how it is that so much has been permitted to eventuate. If this is indeed how it has come to be there is little this small yet capable band company will be able to do or achieve, unless it be Eta's will, to take steps to counter the darkness by one way would be to bringing this knowledge into the Light for the Empire to learn if they were not already aware. Turning towards the others
Such dire cause ast yon Emperors corruption, wouldst indeed explaineth howeth such misfortune upon the Lands hath eventuated. If indeedeth it has come to be there be little we arrows wouldst be able to achieveth to counter or perchance bring such knowledge into the Light for the Empire to learneth of withouth the guidance of Eta. he comments
This message was last edited by the player at 22:39, Wed 16 Mar 2016.

  There is a bit of a broad  smile as Kree hears  Justin's  words,... Ahh..but there you are  wrong, Good Justin. If  either of  the two sisters would see fit  to turn on  us?   we would, at worst, be on our own.... If  Both  support us? there are few  who could hope to tand between us, and our  goals. ..now?  Should both the sisters  turn on us, we would  be left to our own devices, and ...be somewhat all the sadder for it..."

In reply to Kree Quickshadow (msg # 284):

Giving Kree a pleasant smile she faced the roller that stood to the left of the Princess. I agree with Cousin Kree, If Either of the Sisters of Fate choose to vex us we would be in dire situation. With their support it would take Many of the Greater Divines to band together to prevent their success. Yet if both the chose to turn upon us it would be better if the World never saw our first breath. giving the Princess a warm smile Fear not with the Sisters Guidance all shall be as it should.

  Kree  nods,  as he watches the broad  avenue they walk down, I am alive for two reasons.... one, I never allow an enemy a second chance.... but the Most important, is Luck.... I have  Killed or wounded  folks  with an  arrow  oe blades that seemed to hit  , just right , when i needed it...or... from Neta's side... a trip, or fall or deflected Blow, that proved the undoing of my foe.

 ..I like to think, The Sisters know, that  i understand when Good fortune aids me...and  i know, Neta is over joyed to have someone count  on Misfortune to aid them as well..those who side with only one?...not  only causes strife...but  banishes the Benefits of having both at your side.

Feeling it best to not delay further, Rolf draws nearer Kree.  In a low voice, he. Gives a terse report.

"Our friend was in truth a young man, made up to look old.  He carried a silver necklace looking like a burning tree and he had a parchment, instructing ...find...delay..or  destroy....  He also had a few coins, a dagger and a short sword."

  Kree Nods to Rolf,well done, keep what you want from those items...turn the necklace over to Reedrick to add to the wall., when we get to the Plank.

In reply to Kree Quickshadow (msg # 286):

Exactly Cousin Kree; I'm surprised that you haven't been approa... Myranda stopped her question mid sentence then smiled Have you ever considered pursuing the Calling of Holy order.

Brie quietly follows along as they make their way into the city.  She's not quite familiar with it, but glances about checking out the scenery and also keeping an eye out for any harm

Justin glanced from the Elven Maid to Captain Kree and back, surprised by its asking what she did. Her question was a mix of mirth, puzzlement and seriousness which he would be interesting in hearing the Captains reply.

 there is a short, stern Chuckle,... the leaders of  Eta and Neta do not get along, it would   be a hard task in deed, to get them to have the Sisters praised as one... and?..I am uncertain, if the Sisters, themselves, would like it.

  besides..those who see me, and the Arrows, and Know whom i follow, cannot help by be a better  way to praise the sisters. Actions, more then sermons.....

 By this time they were some  50 yards from the  Bridge, that lead to the  Palace grounds.

  An LT of the Paalce Guard  came  striding towards  Kree, a Youngish Human, perhaps in his  lower 20's. a waxed  and curled  Mustache .

 ..You will stop tight there..You will go no further this night. Your Business with the  Emperor, can wait until the Morrow....

 Kree Jerked his ehead to Ivy who Moved a  few steps  wide of  him, his   right hand back, reaching  for an arrow...YOu KNow who i am...aye?

 The Young  man snorts  as he  looks over his shoulders  at the  troopers behind him,..you are a Merc  sell sword...not much more then a step up from the slavers you profess to hate...

 Ivy shook his head dramaticly and   went ahead and nocked an arrow.

 Tell me...LT? What's your  name then?

 ...I am LT Irwon Bast.... commander of the Palace Ground  guards...

  Bast...Bast...ahhhhh..yes..Your Mother  is married to the  Tar marker?.. has big  foundries of  sorts in Engar? and....somewhere else...

 The Man puffed out his chest,..so, You have heard of My Family?

 no..... his eyes  narrowed and  his  tone turned cold, But i knew your Mothers..She was one of the  Cities biggest trollups.... alays trying to bed someone  with Money, or  bed her way into the places...well..a tarmaker?..in these lands?.. is very reach , indeed, with all  the ships and  ferries, and even for use  in sea battles..you see..BOY..i was once the CAptain of the PALACE..guard....so.. i saw you Mom...alot... I don't think there is a robe in the palace she hasn't been Under...

 The  LT looked  shocked and embarrassed, he looked  at Ivy who just gave him a frown and nodded at what kree said.

 ..now? LT....May i tell you what i did to an upstart LT, when i found he turned away a group of...'sell swords' who had a writ from the  Emperor?

 The LT  was worried, some of his mean (older ones) were laughing, others bristled at their    LT being humiliated and some raided  their crossbows.  IVy raised His  Bow. and shook his head with a grin.

  the Moat?.. gets some serpents in from time to time...Cook loves to make serpent.. so i had  he and his  squad go into the Moat to spear fish for them.... they got  4  real nice sized ones, only came out with three men though.....

  Kree Holds Up the Writ so the fellow can see it,so?..you have a choice.... you can try and stop us. most of you will die, some of mine will die, and then the rest of yours  will  be used for serpent  bait?...or. You can make sure  we get to the  palace,  because...someone does not want us to report back....

 The  Lt was still embarrassed,  his Voice  cracked  a bit,..Form Up... we will escort this fellow and his  People to the Emperor, as per his writ... The  Guards  s swiftly formed up, with the arrows in the Middle, Ivy  places his arrows back in his quiver.

  Lt Bast?.. I suggest you   stay by my side  when we enter the party?... Let the Emporer know who's side you are on....

 The LT  Nodded,..Thank You for that....

Lafisual remains silent and tries to remain stoic and follow along while remaining alert.  He's a little concerned about the constant conflict but he's gotten this far so that alleviates most of his worry.

Luthien, now that they were back in civilization, took a more courtly manner about him. He'd cleaned up as soon as they got to the city itself, as it behooved him to be in full shining armor. He'd be needed to stand before the Emperor soon. He must look the full part of a Knight in Armor.

Brie could sense the tension building up and drew her bow raising it up just in case some one was going to try something clever.

When the Or felt he was in the wrong and allowed them to pass she rested the now but kept it out and easily accessible to fire if needed.

She kept by the maidens as they entered.

Valerius stands at the rear, clasping and rubbing his hands together in anticipation of the fact that he was already going to meet someone so important. But the Emperor! He gives a quick, dubious sort of glance at the other palace guards, particularly at the few who strayed closer to their crossbows than the rest, his hands already coming to a rest next to his knives.

Cousin Dear will we have time to tidy up a little before we are brought before the Emperor.
This message was last edited by the player at 06:37, Sat 19 Mar 2016.

   Nearing the Huge doors, that allow  people into the Palace, they can hear the strains of Courtly Music. out side is a long  line of 'important' people who have to  wait to be admitted( even though  the party started close to an hour ago)

 ..I should think, No. We have  just  come of the trail, there is no reason to hide that fact.....

 The LT leads them Up to the Door, a Captain ,dressed in the finery of the Palace Guard, stops them.

 People around them are laughing as the CAptain Approaches,..I am sorry, Good Chap,  But you and your....he spits the word,...comrades, must wait until the morrow ..there is  a very...

 Kree Just  interjects,..Nay.... and he spits the word,..CAptain.... We have a writ, we have returned from the quest the Emperor himself, sent us on....Now... i am nearing the edge of  my considerable patients ... and..under  the wording of the writ, I can cut down anyone who stands between me and my mission.

 His eyes  grow  wide at Kree's  words  he take a step Back, placing his hand  on  the Hilt of His Blade....YOU DARE!

 all around the Group( even a few people waiting  trying to earn points) draw their blades,

 ..Lt BAst?..Under the   Writ, I know claim your unit , to help aid us in these final steps....

 The LT does not even Falter, as he draws His Blade and stpes Up behind the   CAptain with  the Point at his back, Bast's troops suddenly turn and face the PAlace Guard,  Ivy has his  Bow  up aiming at the Crowd....

Luthien has an idea that just might work. And this idea just might allow him to stop needless bloodshed.

"Put down your swords! If the company is too large and would disrupt the event, perhaps you might admit myself and my lovely companion here. After that...His Majesty himself will resolve the matter very quickly. Is this an acceptable compromise?"

Lovely companion? That would be Helga. He isn't quit willing to refer to her as 'princess' yet with so many swords drawn. It also helps Luthien has the natural courtly grace of a Knight.
This message was last edited by the player at 17:29, Sat 19 Mar 2016.

  The Captain smiles a dark smile,..That might be a grand Idea....

 Kree shakes his head,... I say Nay? I have a writ... the  writ was excepted By myself and the Arrows...these are the Arrows.... we can do one of three things,..You can let  us   in, and You live as well as Most of your People... You may try to stop us, in which case, some of  my people will die, some of your people will Die..and the Emperor will  find out you stopped an Agent who carries his writ.... or?... YOu  can send us away, if you think you have enough forces  to do so...if that would be the Case? Then, on the morrow, we  can visit  you as you hang above the water's of the Storm, as serpents Leap and bite......but you will not, serprate us....

 'Helga' and her  two friends seems , more then a little worried.

 Ivy gives Luthian a look  over top of his arrow that he has  aimed at some overweight fellow who had  Pulled  a rather fancy sword, and is  trying to rally  some  folks who were  waiting in line.

Luthien sighed. "Hold that thought..."

He heads over to the commander.

"If I get in with Helga, it's a trivial matter to have His Majesty bring everyone else in. But I can get by this without bloodshed. Trust me."

At the first sight or real problems, Kr'wyn draws both his swords and makes an agressive stance at the outside of the column. His back is to the Miaden he protects, but he whispers to her: "stand ready with your spear to protect my back, or pretend at least".

  Kree Looks at Luthien , a cross between disbelief and anger, his Voice   is low , but the teeth clenching  as he speaks is not hard to miss,..We accepted the  Writ , togther..... we followed this  mIssion ..together... I will be damned to all 9 hells before I let some.... his Voice  raises as he peers around  Luthien's shoulder,.. COWARDLY COURT FIXTURE, STOP MY  TASK...

 the  Captain   tries to  smile as he bristles,..You?  Are  a Fool Quickshadow.. You will never  reach the Emperor, should  you not  walk away, now....and BAst?... we will be watching you in the Arena some time this week..I should think...

  Kree steps to  His Left so Luthien does not block his   way to the Captain, a quick movement has  his Blade out and up... You will not know , what comes after the next few Minutes, for you will be...quite dead... and Me and mine will crawl over the Bodies, to  finish our Task.

 Ivy shouts to the    people who wish to be heroes in the line,AYE, HE MEANS ANY ON YOU ,AS WELL the Arrow   aiming at the group of a dozen of so men and women who stepped up...at least half, replaced their steel and stepped back.

  Lt Bast  just placed the Tip of his blade in the CAptain's Back,That may be CAptain? But  all i know is ..an Emperor's writ, out weights a Captain's prejudice.

 at least two of the Palace Guards  remove their  Helmets  and  stepped next to Bast's  unit. those who did so were older warriors.

Luthien...sighs. The Commander wasn't going to be swayed here.

"You are going to have to stand down, Captain. The Commander is legally correct. And whatever the event going on inside is...well, it is in the best interests of everybody to avoid bloodshed here. His Majesty will take over very quickly once...all is in order."

The Knight still speaks for peace...this is not a time for drawn blades. Hopefully his brother Knight would jump in with similar ideas.

(OOC:Commander is Kree. Captain is the Guard)
This message was last edited by the player at 13:54, Sun 20 Mar 2016.

Lafisual stands at the ready while trying to look unconcerned.  He keeps his bow where he can ready it quickly but doesn't point an arrow or do anything else too provocative.  He feels more than just a little trepidation as violence seems to be as likely as guessing a coin toss.

In reply to Luthien (msg # 301):

Justin was surprised by Luthiens action, leaving his assigned thereby placing the Princess in danger, to propose a possible solution to the situation, which despite its basis was in the least self seeking; if any were to escort the Princes it should have been the Captain.

Rolf, bow in hand and arrow notched to quivering string, aims at the nearest clear target.  One of these days, the cost of Kree's Pride would leave them all dead, but Rolf agrees.  With spies tailing them and the like, best to return the ladies and have done, safer for the ladies and the Arrows alike.

Comforted by the public demonstration of his support and commitment to the Arrows Myranda gave Kree an smile encouraging his action. Glancing around she noticed the peevish glances from different individuals which including some from within the Arrows themselves. This was something she intended to raise when a more suitable time presented itself.

Diana drew her bow at the first sign of trouble.  She notched an arrow, but just kept it at the ready.  At the first sign of hostilities breaking out, she will target the closest hostile.

She whispers to the lady in waiting.

"Be ready.  If things get hostile, duck and cover." She says.

Lucy kept the hood over her head.  She had thought about removing it, but realized that her feline features could cause ... issues.

As tensions began to rise, she casually drew her bow, notching an arrow.

She didn't aim it at anyone.  She just kept it ready.

"If things get ... violent, duck, and cover yourself." She whispered to the lady in waiting.

"Cover your head with your hands, and hold your elbows in tight against your body." She said.

In reply to Lucy (msg # 310):

Myranda gave Lucy a wink before moving around the rollers and her cousins to flank the Guard Captain. Dear Captain she commented taking a step towards him holding her hand out palm down in a courtly manner in readiness to have him place his hand beneath hers Would you care to escort a Elf Maid into the Wedding celebration we wish to Congratulate the Joyful couple on their marriage. Sir can you anticipate how those within will envy you and the benefits which will present themselves when you stand before the Married Couple, in the Presence of the Emperor and the All at Court, as we do so.
This message was last edited by the player at 22:42, Sun 20 Mar 2016.

  The Captain looks at Myra like she is daft,..Me ..escort a Bloody Arrow  into the Emperor's Midst ?

 ...We are going to  start walking to the palace no.... Kree stays  through Clenched teeth. Then He calls out,..WEARE THE CRIMSON ARROWS, UNDER  WRIT OF THE EMPEROR, TO REPORT AS WE ARRIVE....AND WE WILL DO THAT...ANY WHO STAND IN  OUT WAY, STANDS IN THE WAY OF THE EMPEROR, AND WILL BE DEALT  WITH....AS SUCH.

 The CAptain's  Blade slides out,..YOU GO TO FAR!

  NAy... we have  anohter100 yadrs or so to go!

 Bast's Blade pokes the Captain in the BAck, he looks to the Guards  there seems to be a Mix of eager  blades, and doubtful stares

"Kindly put your sword down. Don't you have a family or something? It's probably not worth your life standing in the way of something like this."

Maybe that'll get the captain to reconsider.

In reply to outside (msg # 312):

You have insulted Our honour, Captain I demand you retract your insult or your Presence on the morrow at the field of decision.
This message was last edited by the player at 01:40, Mon 21 Mar 2016.

In reply to outside (msg # 312):

Justin rests his hand on the pummel of his sword. Captain of the Emperors Guard; Disregarding the Emperors Writ be Treasonable, be this Thy intention, to pursueth such unto its conclusion. Glancing about the other Guardsmen and those who look like supporting with this treason All who seeketh to lend aid to the Captain, anst survive, shall be answerable to the Emperor's Magestrates. Justin declares, subtly motioning for Luthien to assist in the defence of the Princess.
This message had punctuation tweaked by the player at 07:15, Mon 21 Mar 2016.

Luthien, seeing combat is more or less inevitable, steps back to take his place as guardian once more.

"...Do remember even the mercy of a Knight has limits, captain. You have about 5 more seconds before I stop trying and let him kill you. If you're lucky, you'll die in battle instead of being alive for the serpents."

Myranda turns away from the guardsman a look of disgust on her face as she moves towards the Unit she pauses beside Kree Cousin dear we should just walk over this mound of sallow trash.she suggests in passing moving alongside the Princes as the Crimsons follows Kree's lead moving forward the tightly formed unit will easily bowl over this impediment without any trouble in the process.
This message was last edited by the player at 04:28, Tue 22 Mar 2016.

  Kree's Blood lust is fighting to take control, but he shouts, with no attempt to hide his hate, or anger,ALL WHO HEAR MY VOICE. WE ARE GOING INTO THE PALACE, AS PER OUR WRIT. ANYONE....I DO NOT CARE IF ITS THE PLACE CAT..GETS  IN OUR WAY, WE WILL KILL THEM, AS ENEMIES OF THE THRONE...

 this causes  a few of the CAptain's  men to take a few paces backwards.

   Kree  steps  forward, His Blades  touched the Captain's  blade  and pushed the Point down, Thank   The Sisters this  night...but should you wish satisfaction, the   Plank has a speical room  in the basement, for such things to be resolved...

  He begins to walk, LT Bast stays  with the  CAptain Until the last of the Arrows walks  by, then he hurries to catch up to Kree.

 The CAptain yells,YOU'ER  FINISHED BAST! YOU';; BE RIDING THE  RAODS, IF I HAVE MY SAY... the Arrows  walk by,  there are some 6 of the Captain's men with them now...but they can hear voices  from the would-be party folks   saying..'just' loud enough,..they are just Bloody lucky, i would have laid a third of the low myself!..and a few other  snippets from a few other people.

Luthien...sighs again. It looks like he at least delayed things enough to avoid bloodshed.

Well, one last piece of advice.

"If you are wise, do not seeks satisfaction. You will find nothing but your own death. There is a reason he leads the company."

Luthien continues on behind the commander, though his primary responsibility is the princess here.

Now that that delay has been removed for the moment the Arrows, flanked by the reinforced unit of Guardsmen, continue their journey to the Celebration. When an opportunity presents itself Justin assesses the outlook of the guardsmen near him on the Right flank.

Valerius sulks along, hidden at the back of the group, dismayed at not having gotten in the action, depressed that no one actually fought. How boring. He follows the rest of the group, with his head hanging down, not even bothering to look at anyone.
(But still walking quietly like a good rogue does in order to hear anyone trying to be sneaky)

  The Group entered the Door, The CAptain stays at the post near the drawbridge.


 More then one guard  tried to stop the Movement, But Bast would snap an order and they would  Move out of the way.

 The great doors of the  Throne room were open wide as were al the  huge Diamond shaped windows. It was   as  bright with  lamps and  candles and  magical glow-balls, but there was still enough shadows  for  folks  to slip into  from prying eyes.

 There was a very..'courtly' reel of sorts  going on, the orchestra  played well, The Emperor  sat on his throne  with a very beautiful woman who was sharing  hos golden Gobblet.

  The Footman  stumbled  forward ( with a push from Bast)..He  banged is   staff on the  Tiled floor, the Music Stopped. Captain Quickshadow of the Crimison Arrows...has returned..reporting as due his   Writ...

 the  Crowd turned to the Doors , Bast and   Kree walked through, Folowed  by the others.. there were gasps at armed  folks being  let into the  great hall, BAst was the only guard,  as the rest of his people, held the doors, so none  could  leave...or enter...

 The rest Folowed In suit,  kree  and the others who had  hooded Cloaks  , had their Hoods Up.

  the Woman leaned   on Nek Lod's shoulder  as the Emperor smiled at first, but the smile faded as he saw...only Arrows.
This message was last edited by the GM at 12:24, Thu 24 Mar 2016.

In reply to enter the palace (msg # 322):

Justin took in the scene, of opulence and excess, noting the Emperor's apparent displeasure at the Arrows return without any whom he could identify as a Princess. This prompted him to wonder how Captain Kree would react to the Emperors disappointment.

Luthien, now in the presence of royalty, has returned to the courtly demeanor of a Knight. And considering who he was escorting, he pulled himself up.

"Your majesty."

Luthien bowed, as is proper etiquette, but he got the idea the Captain should break the news.

   Kree Pulled  Back his  Hood, but head his hand up for others  who still had theirs up.

   Emperor Lod looks  over the group again and  again, he  Get  gives the woman on his lap a pat on the rear, she gives a pouty face and gets  up.

 Nelk, Stands  , taking a swig of his wine and Hands it to the  footman at  the side of his throne. Captain? You have returned..I see new faces among you...and i see some are missing...but..i.... he swallows a bit,...i do not see, what you were sent to get....

 there are Murmurs  from the crowd. Kree turns to  his  people his eyes  look to Both Luthien and Justin as he  does  this, quick shifting of his eyes  to the clerics  and holy warriors  that are sprinkled through the crowd.

 ..Our Task, Your Majesty..was a tall one.We even  faced, going to  Blades with the ....new...Captain of the Palace Guard there are more  Murmurs, some less then friendly.

  The Mission...did not go as hoped....... people Voices  rose as they spot...bits of words caught the groups ears,'worhtless'....sell-swords"...'gutter scum'.We lost, some people...some ran...but we managed to recruit as we traveled...

  Captain Quickshadow, Please..forgive my....seeming  disinterest...but  what of the goal you were sent to reach?

 Kree stayed  silent  for a Bit. The Dwarf General Axehammer, in his  shining armor  stpped up near the throne to  listen...the crowd,was quiet.

Brie just like Kree strolled into the palace as of she were just as much a part of it as the rock and slabs that held it together.  It was a moment of pride more than arrogance.  She was of the eleven bloodline even if her own mother his it from her and made her feel it was a defect or disability.

She stood near the ladies as Kree spoke, her hood only slightly adjusted as he spoke so she could take it all in and if need be prepare to reach for a weapon of attacks should follow.

Luthien stays silent...he didn't want to ruin the Commander's moment. He wondered if Helga was going to ruin it herself by rushing up to her father. Regardless, he keeps silent for now, though he's smiling all the same.

    Your Majesty, As i said before... the Mission did  not go as it was planned. I am Afraid That only one of the ladies in waiting escaped.......

   Nek  looked  shocked, his  smile s shrank and Flickerd. The woman who  had been enjoying his company  moved to his side to steady him.

  The Colonel Stepped forward, YOU LIE!..All three and the Princess  were Pulled from the Salver's Den....! The colonel looked outraged.

 and Kree....smiled.

In reply to Kree Quickshadow (msg # 328):

The Colonels declaration, was an admission of His part in the action to abduct the Princesses and her party. Justin's grin beneath his full helmet was, if others noted it, as close to gloating at the Captain's successful ploy, to expose some of those behind the abduction.

Luthien began to understand the plan...and why Kree was so adamant that the entire company before the Emperor.

He'd have to apologize later. Very much his error.

Diana smiled to herself.  Kree was a slick one.  She chuckled at the dumbass who just confessed to kidnapping and treason.
Some people just couldn't keep their mouths shut at the utmost moment.

"And how would you know that?" She whispered to herself, anticipating the next question.  She really wanted to see how this moron tried to get out of this mess.