As Giles enters the doorway he sees the shop is almost completely bare of product or decoration. A tall wiry looking man, with a ginger beard and a scowl, in a black tunic and leather apron is reading from a tome at the bench which cuts the front of the shop off from the rear, there is another figure out the back working on something.

" What?", said the man irritably as he noticed Giles.

Colm is nearing the completion of his work, when someone enters the shop?  No one enters the shop!  Colm pauses to stare at the young man inquisitively.   A man in a monk's habit stood before him?  There are not many Trues Faith followers around here.  This could be very boring, or slightly amusing?

"I'll deal with this Kores.  Keep an eye on the cauldron!" says the man at the back, who walks forward to the counter, ushering the ginger-bearded man back to a bubbling pot on a stove.  The man at the lectern does not want to give up his book, but reluctantly moves to the back.  The other man has long greasy red hair, piercing emerald eyes, slightly hooked nose, and the pale complexion common among the Gliss.  He is wearing a similar dark tunic covered by a leather apron.  An exotic smell follows the man from the back of the shop.

"With regret Master Monk, we have no products to sell at present.  We are not taking special orders either."  The man leans in and lowers his voice, "Your best bet would be the Apothecary in Dockside, one Farlie Greenwich, who I can highly recommend." He nods at the door in parting.
This message was last edited by the GM at 01:37, Mon 07 Oct 2019.

In reply to Colm Cernach (msg # 7):

"My thanks for that Master Apothecary- I have no need of salve or potion at the moment- though it seems your business here is thriving. I am but newly arrived in town and am keen to take in such useful advice though. I have travelled from Albion on the trail of an ancient puzzle that few care much for these days. I am a scholar you see, eager to learn what I may of the works and lore of Old Selentium - and of the bronze-chests that went forth in their glory- though never to return. These interests may seem obscure though- how so to you?"
This message was last edited by the GM at 01:36, Mon 07 Oct 2019.

Colm's face drains of all interest as the monks drones on about the Selentines "Not another one..." he mutters under his breath.
"My associate Kores the Sorcerer has an passing interest in the Bronze Chests, although he is more interested in the undead ones.  There is a library at the Temple of Flame which does contain some background information.  Many people have chased Drajan's Lost Legion into the mountains.  Occasionally the odd artefact turns up, but my business is focused on the living."  Colm pauses awhile.  "I could arrange for you to view some artefacts, for a small charge?"

In reply to Colm Cernach (msg # 9):

It seems I have come to the right place then! This Temple has archives you say- most interesting! I accept your offer to view these artefacts you speak of... your colleague iseems bent on his tasks at the moment and I know better than to disturb a sorcerer so immersed! But- just quietly- what was that about Undead?!
This message was last edited by the GM at 03:20, Mon 07 Oct 2019.

Colm looks aback at Kores to make sure he is not listening, then leans forward towards the monk.  "He talks with the dead, communes with the damned, you see!  Some say he traffics with demons and devotes all his time on the subject.  Mad as a march hare, and dangerous too.  Not the kind of person a scholar would want to deal with.  Colm is intentionally trying to scare the young priestling with stories of Kores.

"I have a contact at the Crown and Anchor who may be able to show you an authentic Selentine relic, 13th Legion, Drajan I believe, for a small price of course.  We accept silver or barter here.  Are there any services you may be able to perform in fair trade?"  Colm is phishing here, to find out just how scholarly this lad is.  Is he just a book worm, or is there more to him to know?
This message was last edited by the GM at 19:04, Mon 07 Oct 2019.

In reply to Colm Cernach (msg # 11):

A pained look passes over Giles’ face and he reflexively, but discretely, crosses himself. “My pity to him then, I have seen the like before- but surely demons are such liars that anything gained from them cannot be trusted....(he pauses as if talking to himself quietly) and Eternity is such a long time....” Straightening up with a faint shiver a small smile returns- “A relic of the 13th you say? As you might imagine my purse is lean so if by skill or handiwork I could meet the agreed price... I can read and write anything that has been spoken in these lands and some beyond- for that matter I have travelled widely in the south so may give guidance of the best roads, local customs and dare I say gossip of the guilds, abbeys and ruling classes that may benefit a man new to the region” (As an afterthought he slaps his bow) “I have some small skill as a hunter and rarely go hungry in my travels”
This message was last edited by the GM at 05:30, Tue 08 Oct 2019.

At last Colm looks interested!
"Arh, you can read the ancient Bronze Chest Languange?  That could be useful indeed.  Allow me to change and I will take you to see my contact." Colm goes out back and climbs some narrow wooden stairs.  There is a short delay while he changes clothes.

When he returns, Colm is wearing a heavy woollen cloak, covering a great many things, as it bulges slightly in places.
"KORES!  I'M GOING OUT! DON'T LET THE CAULDRON OVERHEAT!" he bellows across the shop.
"Come with me young man." They are going to find Rachel at the Crown and Anchor.
This message was last edited by the player at 11:58, Tue 08 Oct 2019.

In reply to Colm Cernach (msg # 13):

In the brief period that Colm is out of sight Giles stares cautiously at Kores and backs out a little through the doorway. He carries a small sack with him that he shifts between shoulders as it becomes uncomfortable, and changes hands with his quarter staff which is decorated with several coloured threads and leather indicating the various pilgrimages he has completed- one end of the quarter staff is shod with well tarnished silver. A bow is slung diagonally across his back with a quiver at his hip. His monk’s habit is travel stained and a much faded brown. On Colm’s reappearance he quickly jumps into step behind him and walks swiftly to keep pace

Colm walks across the city quickly, avoiding the main avenues and busy squares when possible.
"I'm Finan, by the way.  Didn't get your name Brother Monk?  Are you planning on staying in Glissom for long?  If so I might be able to find you work.  I know someone who needs a clerk, to keep a written account of things; money, men, tales of mighty heroes.  Does this interest you?"

OOC - Giles, Are you aware of the Prince of Darkness Campaign Setting?

In reply to Colm Cernach (msg # 15):

“The name is Brother Giles of the Abbey of St Marcus in Albion, I have taken leave from there for a month in pursuit of this enquiry. My master Brother Aelfric had been planning to make this journey himself for many years but is now too old to travel- I had to remind him of the icy mountains to the north before he would agree on this. I am to write to him if I pick up any new leads.
This clerk position may be agreeable- though a week at best is as long as I would care to commit to the task. Approaching the archivist of this Temple of Fire that I have heard of may be my next task”

OOC- is this Campaign Setting a document I can read- I played through the scenarios around 20 years ago!
This message was last edited by the GM at 21:10, Wed 09 Oct 2019.

Colm takes Brother Giles to the Crown and Anchor pub, where they sit in a snug.  "Wait here, and don't make any wagers!"
Colm will find Rachel and ask her to bring her spartha along to show the monk.

Shortly, a rather rough and tough looking local young woman arrives with Colm, who you wouldn't want to get on the wrong side of.  She reveals an ancient sword to Brother Giles, in the Selentine style.  It has a long double edged blade with a carved ivory hilt, on which is engraged 'Primus Pilus Lego XIII'.  It has not a single blemish of rust or damage upon it.  "What do you make of that Brother Giles?" grins Colm.

OOC - If you don't know/want to know the plot, don't hover over this box!!

---

Spoiler text: (Highlight or hover over the text to view)
Yep, the King of Glissom is dead, murdered by his Steward Kilnded, but no one knows that.  Kilnded is running Gliss on his own, but as he IS the King's Steward, this is entirely lawful.  Kilnded is an evil Darkness Elementalist who worships Balor, but no one knows that.
Colm believes that Kilnded has been slowly and carefully removing political and military threats from Gliss society.  Colm has no proof of this.  Colm's Clan (Cernach) are one of many victims of Kilnded's machinations.  Colm's family have lost their land, title, authority and power and Colm wants it back!
Colm is recruiting for his new underground household.  Fighters, Healers, Scholars, Magic Users. Want a job?

---

In reply to Colm Cernach (msg # 17):

Giles’ face takes on a look of surprise, quickly replaced with awe. Asking to handle the sword he weighs it in two hands noting the balance and looking in close detail on the carving.
(OOC: Casting “See Enchantment” in order to confirm his suspicions regarding the remarkable preservation.)

“Why what a remarkable find! This was the blade of Lucius Vorenus! He was Drajan’s second cousin and ablest soldier- the loss of his sword and one can only suppose his life must have been a huge setback to Drajan’s expedition. How did you come by this if you don’t mind my asking?” “

Giles is eager to find out whatever he can- has not yet decided if he trusts Colm who may or may not be in the employ of a Demonologist- too soon to get an impression of Rachel but as she appears to be a mercenary type he is silently in the back of his head considering just how much clerical work his questioning is going to cost him- so wants to ensure he gets valid intelligence...so (if he isn’t exhausted by previous spell) casts Truthsense....


OOP- a question about Mystic spells- I assume these are like psionics and there is no verbal component or hand gesturing? Does the mind have to be made blank before they can be cast- expect fiddling with the sword would not be too distracting but wonder at the difficulty of a spell like Truthsense during a conversation?
This message was last edited by the player at 05:06, Fri 11 Oct 2019.

Colm watches the monk closely as he in turn examines the sword, looking for any signs of 'special skills'.  If he is more than just a scholar, it should be apparent.   "Rachel claimed it as the spoils from a raid up north.  There are many Selentine relics up in the mountains, but this one is very fine."

OOC - I get the reference to Rome, the BBC Drama - Kevin McKid as Lucius Vorenus :o)  Great show!

This message was last edited by the GM at 22:04, Fri 11 Oct 2019.

In reply to Colm Cernach (msg # 19):

“Why yes there appears to be a minor enchantment up on it- Veteran officers were often gifted enhanced war gear to help them survive and inspire the new recruits. So this was from a raid you say? On who? Where? Are any more such raids planned in future?”

OOP: Yes Rome is great- incredible cast! I was planning on finding a picture of David a Amber as Cicero for Giles’ picture- if that gives you an idea of characterisation
This message was last edited by the GM at 22:25, Fri 11 Oct 2019.

Rachel came in closer her voice low, " Aye, I did. So, Boss? He's interested in the Lost Legion? Like...um...", she made a spiralling motion about her left temple,"...up hill?".

Rachel lay a strong, callused hand on Giles shoulder, " Well, you don't look crazy...so thats a good start. Stick wit' this man he knows a thing or two."

" On who? Oh, some folks you nay know. Theres a bit of Bronze Chests spoil in the Bracks and the low lands, some o'the Clanns have a bit o' it. I won't be raiding again anytime soon, not while theres easy coin to be made here and I'm nay freezing me tits off up there while theres a great warm hearth down here."

She nodded towards Colm, " You've found a little o'that sort yerself in yer travels, nay?", she said quietly with a grin.
This message was last edited by the GM at 22:30, Fri 11 Oct 2019.

In reply to GM (msg # 21):

Giles looks at Finan with renewed interest and makes a decision to trust him after all- OOC: but is also keen to try and obtain more specifics before the Truthsense spell wears off... “ My friend you have other items yourself then? Tell me how perilous are these raids? Are these items all found together or dispersed over a wide territory? In the passes of the mountains or at their base? I would very much like to see the place from which these items are obtained- chance may have it that I may come to a better understanding of what befell Vorenus and any others in his company”
This message was last edited by the GM at 08:31, Sat 12 Oct 2019.

Unknown to Brother Giles, Colm has spent many years building his alter ego 'Finan MacRoach', by which most people in Glissom know him.  Cernach is an Outlawed Clan, and Colm is a wanted man, but Finan MacRoach can move about fairly freely.  Giles is not aware of this, probably.

Colm is fascinated by the quick identification and accurate appraisal of such an ancient weapon, by a simple boy-monk?
"That is fascinating!  How can you tell there is a dweomer about the sword?  How can you be so sure who the owner was, from hundreds of years ago?  For one so young, you pose more questions than you answer, my friend!"  Colm grims at Giles, like a fox might sneer at a capercaillie.
"I can see that you are emanately employable, young man."

OOC - If Giles is casting 'See Enchantment, Colm is glittering with dweomer...

In reply to Colm Cernach (msg # 23):

Giles notes that Colm is glowing under his enhanced perception and nods slightly- this confirms to him Colm is a man of power- unlike the many charlatans who masquerade with their parlour tricks.

“Ah yes, I should explain that my master Brother Aelfric is the real expert on the 13th Legion- he taught me only some of what he knew. There was only ever one primus pilus or “first spear” in any legion and Lucius was a man of great renown. Brother Aelfric would be able to recount this at great length- and probably tell you what size sandals he wore for good measure! If the sword was marked to a Legate or other rank I could have only hazarded a guess. As to the faint dweomer, well... let me just saw I have some small skill in matters of detection. I retain my role as the Abbey’s messenger as I have, some might say, a near miraculous ability to locate other monks when they are on the move and could be anywhere!”
This message was last edited by the GM at 23:24, Sat 12 Oct 2019.

Rachel looked back and forth between the two of them, " Right...well, if'n yer nae needing me, Boss, I'll get to bed fer a kip, its gonna be a late night."

Colm smiles at the Monk's admission, then nods to Rachel, "Thank you Rachel.  I will speak with you later."
Turning back to the monk, Colm leaned in "You are a man of hidden talents.  I could certainly make use of a man like you.  I am sure that once you have experienced the lost knowledge to be found in Glissom, you will not wish to return to your Abbey so quickly.  Colm lowered his voice to a whisper... As you may have realised, I am no simple apothecary, Rachel is no simple barmaid, and I do not work for a half-mad Demonologist.  Are you interested young man?"

In reply to Colm Cernach (msg # 26):

“My thanks to you for this introduction- and for the privilege of handling the sword of Lucius. I will uphold my end of the bargain and enter your employ undertaking any tasks you deem me capable of and which do not weigh too heavily on my conscience. I shall write to Brother Aelfric of my safe arrival in Glissom and the present events - and leave the timing of my return, shall we say, extended and subject to new developments? My blessings to whoever is appointed abbey messenger in my absence- it is no easy feat tracking down wandering friars in the peaks of the Pagan Mountains or marshland of Cornumbria!”
This message was last edited by the GM at 21:00, Sun 13 Oct 2019.

"Excellent!  Would you accept Bed and board as a sign of my seriousness?  It is simple hospitality, but as you are probably sworn to poverty, coin won't do.  I can take you to the Tempe of Flame next, and show you the library.  I will not enter though, as I am required elsewhere."

OOC - Great RP there, my friend.  We are in the unenviable position of having a group of characters who do not agree on many things, being forced to work together.  It can bring out some great RP, but it can also provoke some PvP, which has nearly happened a couple of times.
This message had punctuation tweaked by the player at 10:35, Wed 16 Oct 2019.

In reply to Colm Cernach (msg # 28):

“Indeed- such an arrangement would serve us both well I think- if you were to furnish me with a desk, lamp and parchment I will happily translate whatever you put before me. I carry my own reed pens and ink which I treasure highly- as much as one tries to be above materialism in this i fail terribly!”

OOP thanks for the guidance- not too much ego with Giles so adding water to the cocktail!
This message was last edited by the GM at 09:37, Wed 16 Oct 2019.

Colm will take Brother Giles to within sight of the Temple of Flame.  "The Library of Glissom is within the Temple.  The Librarians are the academic type, so you'll probably get on fine, even if you are of the True Faith!  When you're done, come back to Kores Shop.  Make sure you leave before dusk!  You don't want to walk the streets alone at night."  Colm will rush back to Kores shop to look after his potions.