I stand in the doorway of the secret tunnel and keep a look out for anything or anyone. I look down the tunnel and down the hallway.

As the rest make their way across I say with anxiousness in my voice to them and myself, "Can we please hurry up here. I would really like to be above ground."

I grin as we hear the pirates frustration and Mikael's success in his jump. I pump my fist in a barely noticeable fashion as Jacqueline communicates the trap is safe to cross.

For a moment before this I began to stare, transfixed by thoughts ({ during my missed post}, while I was unneeded for the advancement of our goals, for a brief moment. I considered to myself our new information, finally so many questions were being answered.
1. The pirates were the ones to attack Biff,
2. They were the ones to stop the alliance between Larlben and Kelden.
3. Kelden was being supported by the pirates, but only to a point and not to his knowledge.
4. There is a new pirate lord, and it is Alldyde after all.
5. Kelden's plan to take the Lordship back was being monitored, and was 'allowed' or aided by the pirates.

[Private to DM Ryan; Dwalin Grayhammer; Imbellem Tueri; Lady Jacqueline Raynelde; Mikael Vaeltaja:
I make some conclusions based upon these new answers...
1. So the army must have been called away by pirate orders, I knew it was too convenient.
2. It is confirmed, Taisiya is a pirate, no wonder she kept to herself so much, with my talk of pirates and their elimination. Even if she thought I was a 'good' man, I am sure it made her concerned about what I would do if I discovered the truth.
3. Kelden's organization must be filled with spies, as Biff said to himself, wondering why so many suddenly supported and joined his efforts. As I suspected, they are likely spies, riddled throughout every level of his organization likely. They are likely the tool Alldyde will use to overtake Kelden's efforts and organization, shrouded by Kelden's ideals and image, until Alldyde either impersonates him, or takes control fully before any can realize what has happened.
     We must save Kelden,] [Private to GM: I must be there to help my cousin. We, I, cannot let this happen again. It happened once to my family, but NOT THIS TIME! THIS TIME IT WILL BE DIFFERENT! GOD HAS PREPARED ME FOR THIS DAY! MY FAMILY WILL NOT BE DISHONORED AGAIN! A deep commitment and passion rises in my heart. An anger, an indignation, a resilience.]
     [Private to DM Ryan; Dwalin Grayhammer; Imbellem Tueri; Lady Jacqueline Raynelde; Mikael Vaeltaja:'Look at the evidence!' I think to myself, 'We were released from the prison just after we learned this! We will make a difference this time!'
     My attention turns to Adwonus and Pyrra a moment, 'Lord, keep them from assaulting Kelden or his forces or his true cause! Let them see the truth and light in his purpose!] [Private to GM: keep them from my cousin.] [Private to DM Ryan; Dwalin Grayhammer; Imbellem Tueri; Lady Jacqueline Raynelde; Mikael Vaeltaja: You must soften their hearts, lest I have to pierce them. You are a God of Love, and Peace- I know You and I would rather have them change their minds'. I pray you help them see the truth and turn from their course of evil. I know that they have their own will, and I am ready to be your instrument for you are also a God of War, and I am Your instrument. I know that if they will not change their mind, You are the LION of Judah, God of the Angel Armies, and a God of Power and Protection. Let no harm come to my party, or Kelden and his officers and men this day Lord! Give us... I speak in faith that you have given us... the VICTORY!]

I pray these things to myself in my heart or consider them to myself.


While I am still back in the hallway, I look across the way and motion 2 fingers toward my eyes and then in the direction of the distracted cussing pirates. I mouth to my friends' across, 'Look across and tell me when I ought to go.' Knowing they have better vision in the dark from their Dwarven, Elven, or Orcish roots. When the time comes, I say a short prayer and I sneak across the way, moving at half speed (or whatever speed is default for stealth). I do my best to move stealthily, silently and unseen across the hall.



Rolls:
{As always I stay vigilant, as I was instructed in my military training from before. A warrior is never to be caught of guard.
21:16, Today: [Private to GM: Secret Roll:] Herr Johannes rolled 14 [Private to GM: using 1d20+1]. Hide Check, across the hallway; MQ.
21:16, Today: [Private to GM: Secret Roll:] Herr Johannes rolled 13 [Private to GM: using 1d20+1]. Move Silently, across the hall; MQ.
These bonuses only include my dex and applicable ranks, I did not include any modifiers for condition of situation or Jacqueline's aid another check.}
This message was last edited by the player at 01:31, Fri 14 Aug 2015.

After seeing the success of Jaqueline's disable trap, I prepare to sneak across. I begin to quietly sneak across the hallway. To everyone's surprise, I am so stealthy that even the party barely notices. I grin after making it across."I Bet you guysdidnt expect that." I whisper.

{
06:39, Today: Dwalin Grayhammer rolled 14 using 1d20+1. Move Silently.
06:39, Today: Dwalin Grayhammer rolled 17 using 1d20+1. Hide.}

The silence of the dim halls was disturbed only by the muttering and work of the two pirates. But not by party. One by one, the party crept across the hall and through the secret door on the other side, as silent as ghosts. When all their members had filed into the passage, Jacqueline, with deft hands, removed the small rocks which inoculated the trap and, too, dashed into the the passage. Mikael softly closed the door behind them. Finally they were alone, and more importantly, they were safe.

"We were pretty good back there," said Imbellem. "Yea," Dwalin corroborated. "Never thought you or I could have a lick of stealth to 'em." Standing behind them, Pyrra cleared her throat. They anticipated her to make a derisive comment, but instead they heard this. "Yea, not bad." Both were stunned by the rare complement.

Now they stood together in an unlit tunnel of the old Aqueducts. Unlike the halls of the pirate complex where the stone was polished and clean, the walls here wore deep signs of age, deteriorating beneath the long years and humidity. Through the center of the tunnel flowed a channel of clear, blue water, which played the constant music of a babbling brook. They were very grateful for its cleanliness, for they just as easily could have found themselves in one of the more pungent sewers. They crouched at they edge of the walkway which bordered the current and drank heavily, having acquired a terrible thirst from this long and dangerous night. Imbellem dunked his head into the water; as he stood with a face full of satisfaction, small rivulets poured from the tips of his hair. Once they felt adequately refreshed, the party became determined to continue their journey and set off into the tunnel. There was only one way to go, and so that way they went.

Those of orc, dwarf, and elven blood led the way while the humans followed close behind, keeping one hand on the wall beside them. They walked for several minutes before stumbling onto something. Pyrra called out, "There's a wooden door over here." The party gathered around the door. Pyrra tried to open it but was stiff, tightly wedged in place. "Let me do it," spoke Dwalin. He took her place and, grabbing the handle with both hands, pulled with all his strength. It popped open. It clearly hadn't been opened in a long time. And on the other side, to their surprise, was a wooden wall!

"What's this?" Adwonus exclaimed. Dwalin put his hands against it. Feeling it, he said, "This ain't no wall. They're boxes. Everyone, come push." Following his direction, the party grouped together a gave a unified shove. It budged slightly and a crack of light gleamed through. "Once more," encouraged Herr Johannes. "One, two three – heave!" They pushed again, and the wall of boxes fell over, along with themselves. Everyone poured into the room landing on boxes. They coughed as dust clouded the air around them, but the dust soon settled.

They found themselves alone in a small room with shelves, boxes, and barrels along the edges. They could now see the door they had entered through was fully hidden behind a wall of dusty boxes. Aside from the door they entered through, there was only one other – no doubt it connected to the rest of the pirate complex. Also in the corner of the room was a ladder which lead into a shaft, and finally to a trap door high above. This looked very promising to the party. And best of all, in the center of the room, lay a very messy pile of all their stolen equipment! It looked like it was thrown in here with little regard, perhaps intending to sort through it later.

"Our stuff!" cried Herr Johannes with joy. Still dusty, they stood from the pile of boxes and flocked to their things. "It's pretty much all here," said Mikael as he rifled through. Dwalin muttered grimly, "Except for the gold and all our coins. Figures. Bastards didn't leave a cent." "Well, at least we escaped, with everyone alive no less." Adwonus added. "Yes, we're alive," echoed Jacqueline. "But we're not out of the woods yet."

As Herr Johannes gathered his equipment and began to redress himself, Imbellem spoke, his eyes fixed on something on the ground. "Hey Herr – there's a sword here that I don't think we brought. And I think it's got your name on it." "Huh? Let me see," Herr Johannes replied. He stepped beside him and lifted what was indeed a beautiful longsword off the ground. It glistened, unmarred by the slightest bit of rust or flaw, save for an etched name at the base of the blade.

quote:

Herr Johannes Otto Albrecht von Krieger

He then noticed a note attached to the handle (oddly, it was attached by a small, clear strip of an unknown material that was sticky on one side). It read as follows:

quote:

Congratulations! Top game poster for a year straight. Not bad, not bad at all. Thought I'd leave you a little gift. Keep it up. I'll be watching. ~ VC

[Private to Herr Johannes: As you crept across the hall, you felt lighter, as though you were being lifted by your shoulders. The artistry of your pensive thoughts and prayers must have impressed someone! Your Hide and Move Silently received mysterious +5 bonuses.]

[Private to Imbellem Tueri: As you crept across the hall, you felt lighter, as though you were being lifted by your shoulders. The eloquence and artistry of your post and prayers must have impressed someone! Your Hide and Move Silently received mysterious +5 bonuses.]
This message was last edited by the GM at 17:35, Fri 14 Aug 2015.

It took a few moments, but Imbellem swiftly put his gear back on. Its feeling was similar to that of a long lost friend's embrace. And there, out of the corner of his eye; he saw him. Completely speechless, the cleric slowly moved his arm, greatly in contrast to his swift movements from earlier, toward him. "Is... Is that truly you?..." He said with a lump beginning to form in his throat and tears beading in his eyes.

"S-...Sir Bonks!"

There was a hearty (and pointy) embrace between the two comrades as the others collected their gear with much less gusto. A swift and piercing glare from Pyrra broke the two up.

"Alright, we can fight back now, but id really rather not if possible... Does anybody know where to go now?" The cleric asked the party (With a few small piercing marks on his face from his warm embrace with his morningstar), "How about you Dwalin? any secret doors 'round here with hidden in the stone? And call me paranoid-" he continued, "But Id rather not be caught with our trousers down so to speak. Could you two" he motioned to Mikael and Pyrra "Keep an eye on the hallways and entrance? We cant see as well as you do in the dark... Your Elfish eyes could give us the drop on a lone guard."

Among the ruckus, Imbellem took a moment to check his belongings, all there; minus the gold just like the dwarf said... But he didnt mind much, the object he found had no price on it he would be willing to part with. With a smile, he took out the small wooden crucifix and admired it. My how it had aged, he thought to himself as he wrapped it twice around his left arm securely and allowed it to partially dangle as opposed to it usually being tucked away in his sleeve. The lord was needed for the rest of this escape to go smoothly. He felt eyes peering at him, he looked over to the group, one of which swiftly averted their gaze. With this grim reminder, the cleric hastened to put on his leather gloves starting with his right hand... To conceal his embarrassing taboo marking branded into his skin. As he was reminded, he felt a was of shame as he stood, but at least he had his gear as he walked up to talk with the others.

Lady Jacqueline kept her eyes and ears open around her to make sure everyone was safe. She quickly darted over to her dress and glared at it. A stain on it. Great. And not blood, but grease, like someone gripped it tightly before placing it there. But no one had grease on their mits, from what she remembered... "Do you think there might be.." she trailed off and shook her head.

[Private to DM Ryan:

00:24, Today: Secret Roll: Lady Jacqueline Raynelde rolled 20 using 1d20+8. Listen check. Looking out for enemies.
00:24, Today: Secret Roll: Lady Jacqueline Raynelde rolled 12 using 1d20+8. Spot check. Looking out for enemies.
12:53, Fri 14 Aug: Secret Roll: Lady Jacqueline Raynelde rolled 14 using 1d20+3. Knowledge Nobility/Royalty Check on the name: Herr Johannes Otto Albrecht von Krieger.]
This message was last edited by the player at 04:26, Tue 18 Aug 2015.

"Wow," I exclaim in wonder, as I pick up the sword with my name on it, honored. You might even say I reverently picked it up. "Is this really for me?" I ask to myself. "Must be, your name is on it." Imbellem stated after I noticed it. "Wow, this really appears to be a fine work of craftsmanship." I state as I begin to examine it.

[Private to DM Ryan; Dwalin Grayhammer; Imbellem Tueri; Lady Jacqueline Raynelde; Mikael Vaeltaja:
{07:00, Today: Secret Roll: Herr Johannes rolled 21 (nat 20! (if that matters)) using 1d20+1. Appraise, Engraved Sword; MQ.
06:59, Today: Secret Roll: Herr Johannes rolled 13 using 1d20+4. Knowledge (Religion), Engraved Sword; MQ.
06:58, Today: Secret Roll: Herr Johannes rolled 9 using 1d20+1. Knowledge (Arcana), Engraved Sword; MQ.
07:09, Today: Secret Roll: Herr Johannes rolled 11 using 1d20+3. Knowledge (Adventure), Engraved Sword; MQ.
07:09, Today: Secret Roll: Herr Johannes rolled 17 using 1d20+1. Knowledge (Nobility & Royalty), Engraved Sword; MQ.
07:08, Today: Secret Roll: Herr Johannes rolled 19 using 1d20+1. Knowledge (History), Engraved Sword; MQ.}]

"Would anyone else like to help me examine it? Perhaps searching their minds for any local rumors of such a thing or appraise its quality as a weapon?" {Knowledge local, or really any Knowledge, and Appraise, Ryan: is there a skill for knowing a weapons quality that ties to proficiency or base attack with a weapon? Had we found one? or do we need to make a connection to a skill?, since we designed the new expanded 'weapons of fine quality' system}

At the same time I consider the engraved sword, I consider the surrounding Aqueducts and our location and anything else that might be helpful, within our location or our recent walk.

After I take a moment to examine it, I quickly (but not hastily) don my armour again, and my  weapons, and my belts, and my pack, and now, my new sword. As I examine my stuff for damage or missing items, with gratitude I exclaim to my friends, "It is disappointing that they took our Gold, but I am impressed at how much they did not take of our stuff. I only lost my coins from what I can tell, they even left the crossbows in my pack! And, as Adwonus has stated, I am most glad that none of our lives were lost. Coins can be replaced, but freinds... we dont want to lose those most of all! Am I right fellows and ladies!?" With the time I have available, I take as in-depth of a look as I can at my things, especially the pouches, weapons, and armour, just to be sure nothing is missing and the weapons and armour are fit for use. I look in my pack and the pack Dwalin is carrying for me, if it looks unrifled through (since I keep my pack well tied and in excellent order, it should be easy to tell) I move on, otherwise, I take a closer look. I double check my pouches for all my items. {Search Check? usually take a 20 here I would guess, when not under pressure or rush.} [Private to GM: {like my lion brooch from Larlben, it was in a separate pouch from the coin pouch}]

"Hey Dwalin, any of your stuff missing? You were carrying alot of my stuff." I nod as I pat my pocket (or lack of one, since I am wearing tights under a tunic, and thus must use pouches).

"Now, if we are all regathered and none of us have switched our items on accident (everyone please check on that if you haven't, please) we need to be going. We must remember what Taisiya had said, which way do we go from here? We can not waste time with what we heard of the pirates plans, but I am sure you are all well aware of that.

If I remember right, I believe she said, 'you should be able to find your way from way from there' (meaning the store rooms)

Oh, and I almost forgot! We should search this room for any valuables before we leave! With what they threw in here, and the lack of our coin."
This message was last edited by the player at 11:35, Tue 18 Aug 2015.

Faints clouds of dust swirled about the storeroom, stirred by the movement of the adventurers. From the look of things, the pirates hadn't cleaned this room in some time (pirates are not known for their cleanliness). Imbellem continued to brush dust and grime from his newly restored clothes, even after his emotional reunion with Sir Bonks-alot. The adventurers felt renewed when they finished donning their original attire. Jacqueline however was slightly dissatisfied with the oily stains on her dress left by the hands of lustful pirates. She ignored this for the time being, looking forward to the hour when she could thoroughly (very thoroughly) wash her clothes.

The adventurers surveyed their belongings a second time and found everything accounted for, save for their stolen gold. They made a mental note to return the favor in the near future. Lastly they searched the contents of the storeroom. They coughed heavily as they disturbed the dust, opening some of the barrels and boxes; they were disappointed to find only moldy food inside, as well as other useless items. The only object of interest, found strangely stashed beneath a barrel, was a rusted dagger which had retained its edge – Imbellem placed this on his belt.

Imbellem spoke, "No doubt they just put our stuff in here for the time being. They'll probably be back for it soon." "Everything's accounted for though," said Dwalin. "Now what?" "Now we need to find a way out," answered Herr Johannes. "We just need to figure out where that is." "Isn't it obvious?" Pyrra inserted. "We're underground. So, we need to go up." She gestured to the ladder in the corner of the room which led to a trapdoor high above. She made sense.

Deciding the ladder was their most promising option, the adventures began their climb. Upon reaching the trapdoor, Pyrra, who was first on the ladder, placed her ear against the ceiling. She whispered, "I hear something, but I think it's a little ways away. The area above us should be fine." She opened the trapdoor and, thankfully, it led to a small, empty room. One by one the party climbed into it, helped off the ladder by other members.

The room was made of wood which was evidence enough that they were now on the surface. There was only one door in the room. Pyrra touched the handle and gently tried to turn it. "It's locked," she whispered to the others. "I could try to pick it," Jacqueline offered. "Wait, let me try," spoke Imbellem. Taking his keyring, the one given to them by Taisiya, he used its third and final key on the door – and unlocked it with light click! He was just about to open the door when the adventurers heard a sudden and violent sound on the other side of it.  The sounds of shouting, combat, and cries of death reverberated from the other room, and loudly. Imbellem froze in place, sweating.

Swords clanged just on the other side of door. Men shouted muffled desperate cries to each other. And then there was laughing. Still as could be, the adventures listened; tingles traveled up and down their spines at this very near battle. Finally, and just as suddenly as it began, the violence stopped, and all the remained was a light chatter which was too quiet to hear.

"Sounds like there's another foe beyond this door my friends," whispered Herr Johannes. "And this is the only way out, our way to freedom." He unsheathed his new sword. "There's only one option." The rest of the adventurers readied their weapons. "On three we attack. Ready? One. Two. . . Three!" Shouting their battlecries, the adventurers opened the door and burst into the room with weapons raised.

Almost as soon as they entered, they stopped. Around the room lay the bodies five dead pirates – and standing amidst all the slain pirates was Buddy and Zinvaris! They held rapiers out in triumphant repose.

The adventurers stared at them with a mixture surprise, relief, and general astoundment. Buddy and Zinvaris stared back with similar shock. Zinvaris raised his arms in disbelief at the party and exclaimed, "Oh come on!.. We were literally just about to go and rescue you in a daring act of heroics. And you just go and escape on your own!? Pfft. I don't believe this." Buddy grinned, "Yea, how rude!"

[Private to Lady Jacqueline Raynelde: Jacqueline
Spot & Listen ~ You don't roll these.
Knowledge Nobility/Royalty ~ von Krieger... that's the name of the old royal family in the country of Vaterland!]

[Private to Herr Johannes: Herr Johannes
Knowledge Nobility/Royalty ~ That's definitely your name on it
Appraise ~ You could sell a longsword for a good 7 or 8 gold pieces at a respectable vendor.
Knowledge Arcana ~ This sword doesn't shine like an ordinary one, but you are unable to fathom how or why. For now, it's secrets remain a mystery to you.

Note: Currently Superior and Crude weapons aren't connected to a skill and you can thus discern weapon quality upon picking it up. Such an item will be immediately identified as a Superior or Crude.]
This message was last edited by the GM at 16:09, Tue 18 Aug 2015.

Lady Jacqueline stared [Private to DM Ryan: at Johannes ]for a while, deep in thought..[Private to DM Ryan: I wish I kept up on history to remember more about that name... Jacqueline stared at Johannes with hesitance. He can't be hiding from us... He's not.. royalty.... Is he? Her brow furrowed for a moment while she tried to recollect the history of VonKrieg. (I rolled a 4. There's no way I'll ever figure it out, haha.)]. at least before casting her eyes down at the ground. Then, remembering, she walked up to Buddy and extended a hand. "I'll have my dagger back, thank you." She pushed aside a lock of hair and smirked playfully, revealing the curl of her scar above her eyebrow. "I'm not sure if this suffices as proof of who I am," she said, now pointing at the scar, "but this is all the proof I have in my relation to Red Jack."

Just as the groups were being introduced to eachother once again, Herr Johannes looked inquisitively at the sword. "Couldnt feel it right huh" a voice asked over his shoulder. Johannes looked over to see imbellem, bending at the waist, looking over the shoulder of the paladin to take a glance at the sword for himself. "I personally dont know much of anything about magical junk," He said as he crouched next to the Herr, "But i can feel it, thats for sure. You seem to know a touch, how about we pray together for guidance for a moment and you give it another go eh? Nothing a little Divine intervention couldnt fix." The two chuckled and agreed, and quietly bowed heads in prayer.

quote:

"Abba father, we thank you for this mysterious gift to our friend, Herr Johannes... We fear however that we cannot detect its capabilities without your guidance. Ask and ye shall receive you say, I ask now not for anything material, or self preservation, but I ask simply that you open the mind of your solider and bless him with the insight to see what sleeps within this simple looking blade. I thank you for this, for I know it has already been done. We thank you for your protection, and I ask, selfishly im afraid... that you continue to do so. We are always in need of you, and it would be most appreciated to be honest." The cleric chuckled to himself, "Be with this man, and all of us as we leave this place of evil. In your eternal and holy name, Amen."

With a swift pat and a smile, Imbellem stood up and walked over to the others

"Zin." He said boldly as he walked toward the swordsman, fists clenched... "You... You left us and..." He trailed off as he walked closer to the man, head lowered. "YOU SHOWED UP JUST IN TIME!" He shouted in jubilation, arms explosively outstreached quickly clinging onto the man to put him in a playful headlock. This however didnt go over well... Zinvaris was a much more skilled combatant than Imbellem and with seemingly no effort, the effect was flip-flopped and imbellem was the one caught under the arm of the other. After a playful struggle, the two split apart and shook hands. The cleric also took note of buddy, saying hello, giving the man a hug and commenting on his fighting prowess.

"As fun as this little get together is, how about we check what these blokes have on them and take to the streets eh? I dont wanna be down here anymore..."

[Imbellem casts Guidance on Herr Johannes, granting him +1 on a roll of his choice(Knowledge arcane, cough). Also given this brief respite, he takes his time to check the bodies for any loose weapons, documents, keys, gold. Anything of value to hopefully sell or to make up for his lost gold...]
This message was last edited by the player at 02:42, Thu 20 Aug 2015.

In reply to Imbellem Tueri (msg # 183):

Trapper readied his weapon, eager for some action once more.

Without saying anything I walk to the closest dead body and start searching him for loot. Once he is thoroughly searched I look back at the others, "You think we can make it back to that warehouse? I left my box there..."

As we burst through the door, ready to slay our would be foes, we find 5 pirates slain. Met by our would be heros, Zin and Buddy. "New friends if you ask me." I say to the others nodding, as I resheathe my sword. "We may have spent little time with you, Zin and Buddy, but you guys are friends in my book. Any guy who risks his life to come back for his fellows is a good man in my book.
     What was that? Disappointed you could not save us? Nonsense! you just saved us from the trouble of killing these 5 and the poverty the pirates wished to put on us. They left all our goodies! EXCEPT OUR COIN. These 5 will definitely help stave off that problem. Looks like they were not too much of a challenge for you." I say with a laugh and a grin on my face, as I pat them on the shoulder with my gauntleted hand.

"Alright men, lets search these guys for loot. Everyone pick a man." {Pick a man to search and take a 20 on the search check}. I begin immediately searching the bodies for any kind of loot, but especially gold.

"How did you guys get here anyways?... Actually, where is here anyways? Are we outside now?" I ask this while I simultaneously look for a window to look out. "Before we could get your box Mikael, we need to figure out where we are."

After searching the bodies and figuring out where we are, or at least while I have a moment. I take a look at my sword. Imbellem begins looking over my shoulder soon after and offers to pray with me. "I think that would be a great idea Imbellem, I definitely agree, lets pray. It is quite a clever idea too. Seeking God's guidance, to see if I would remember anything else." I bow my head and agree in prayer with Imbellem, glad for his thought to pray with me. I am appreciative to see someone heard my question for help on identifying my sword I think again if I remember anything else from my arcane studies about my sword. {I use guidance from Imbellem to directly benefit my Knowledge arcane skill, since it would give me a bonus rank I would be able to make another check to see if I remember anything more than before :)}

{02:04, Today: Secret Roll: Herr Johannes rolled 16 [Private to GM: using 1d20+2.] Knowledge (Arcana) (With Guidance), Engraved Sword; MQ.}

{I take a 20 on my search check on the dead man I search. If no one else searches the other 2 left after Mikael and Imbellem, I search one of them and get Mikael or Imbellem to search the other.}

"Imbellem, can you help me here? I motion to look over Zin and Buddy for wounds."
{I do a heal check on Zin and Buddy
02:10, Today: Secret Roll: Herr Johannes rolled 7 [Private to GM: using 1d20+2.] Heal Check, Zin's condition; MQ.
02:10, Today: Secret Roll: Herr Johannes rolled 16 [Private to GM: using 1d20+2.] Heal Check, Buddy's condition; MQ.}
This message was last edited by the player at 06:12, Fri 21 Aug 2015.

Amidst a room full of dead bodies, the adventurers celebrated. They were pleased to be reunited with their friends once more, especially Buddy, whose unknown fate in the Pirate Complex had filled them with anxiety. Imbellem had to ask, "So how did you escape?" Buddy looked proud of his achievement. "Plan worked like a charm, all thanks to the lovely miss here." He nodded to Jacqueline. "I was on my way to the noose, wrists tied up, right? Well, when they weren't looking, I slipped the knife from my sleeve and cut my bonds. Once I got to the noose, I dove for the sewer like my life depended on it – cause, you know, it did – and the rest is history!" Imbellem chuckled, "Explains the smell." "Yea, not much I can do about that at the moment." Jacqueline approached him and held out her hand, "I'll have my dagger back, thank you." "Ah, right. Got it," Buddy replied. He handed back her dagger, which now had a slight smell to it (nothing that couldn't be washed off).

He continued, "And then I ran into Zinvaris here." "Wait- You two know each other?" asked Dwalin. "Yup," he stated. "Zinvaris taught me how to use this little sword here when I was boy." Zinvaris grinned as he placed a hand on Buddy's shoulder, "And you turned out just fine I'd say." Jacqueline furrowed her brow as she thought of something, "He taught you how to fight when you were a kid? But you look the same age!" "Actually, he looked about the same then," Buddy replied. A suspicion grew in Jacqueline's mind. "Zinvaris, you aren't?-" "-Elven?" he finished for her. "One quarter. Grandfather was an elf. I look pretty damn handsome for being 76, am I right?" Jacqueline blinked at the surprisingly large number. All she managed to say was, "Oh."

"Back to business," said Herr Johannes. "Loot the bodies, and Zinvaris, where are we?" "We're at the north side of the Bazaar. The northern pier is just outside." While Mikael emptied the pockets of a slain pirate, he asked, "You think we can make it back to that warehouse? I left my box there." Zinvaris shrugged, "It'd take an hour." "By the time you did, the city of Herrod will have fallen," Pyrra said spitefully. "Have you all forgotten that time is short!? Any hour now the duchy is going to fall into the hands of the pirates! And if that happens, our fate is sealed."


Herr Johannes took a deep breath. "She's right. We need to get across the Bay of Andor as quickly as possible. There's a secret way into the castle at the base of cliff. We know where it is." "Well, I know of a boat we can use," offered Buddy. "That's perfect!" Herr Johannes exclaimed. "Then there's no time to waste. Let's go."

After the adventurers finished looting the slain pirates, they departed the structure and found themselves on a gray stone harbor, the northern pier of the Bazaar. The building they had exited from looked on the outside to be little more than simple residence. Nearby there were cobbled stone streets leading to the main market place. The sun had fully risen.

Normally at this hour the streets would already be teeming with people, but, strangely, there was hardly a soul to be seen. Yet they could hear the sounds of voices and shouting not far away, from deeper in the Bazaar. "What's going on?" asked Adwonus. Buddy replied, "From the look of things, Delcor's trying to put his rebellion in full swing. It's happening all over the city I hear. Bands of his men are attacking civil buildings and guardposts and trying to incite other citizens to do the same." Adwonus frowned. "Then there isn't much time."

The adventurers began crossing the harbor toward a row of anchored ships. Their white sails glowed red in the early morning sun. As they approached the wooden docks they heard a commanding shout directed at them, a voice they had not heard in a long time. "Stop!" Jacqueline felt her chest flutter and contort at the sound. The adventurers looked and saw who it was. It was Marcus!

His black hair was the same, touching the top of his shoulders, but his beard was now gone and shaven away. Yet there was no mistaking that voice nor the masculine jaw of the Larlbens nor the deep blue eyes of the Corelians. It was him. He stood twenties paces from the adventurers. "My sister, my friends – it's good to see you again. I've been awake all night, scouring the Bazaar. But I'll admit it wasn't for you I was looking for – it was for him." He lifted his sword. And he pointed it directly Adwonus. "You and I have unfinished business."

[Private to Lady Jacqueline Raynelde: Jacqueline
Knowledge History ~ Ugh, you wish you studied more.]

[Private to Herr Johannes: Herr Johannes
Heal ~ Both Zinvaris and Buddy look quite healthy. Small surprise for two swordsmen who are experts in evasion.
Knowledge Arcana ~ Amen. As Herr Johannes concluded his prayer, a revelation occured in his mind, like shining a light where there was once darkness. He knew what the sword did. This longsword was magic. In the hands of Herr Johannes it was a Longsword +1, but only in the hands of Herr Johannes alone. If wielded by another, it would be as plain, ordinary, and even as breakable as any other longsword; a merchant would see it as little more than this – if not less so due to the etched name which mars the blade.]

Trapper stood in the square, ready to weave his fey words or fight as he saw fit. His hand gripped the axe handle with an exceptional tightness. Here before him stood the Llarbin boy. Trapper hadn't cared one way or the other. A job was a job. But this Runt was getting in the way. Although the orc had no way with words he opened his mouth.
"Lad, you got every reason to fight me here in this street. I killed your father. Damn straight. But I didn't do  it on a whim. I get no joy cuttin' a throat as it sleeps, but I had my orders, your father was seen as a threat and I was told to eliminate it. If you want to fight this out later, go ahead. This ain't the time right now. We got Aldyde to deal with. Every second we delay more people are gonna die. You really that selfish, boy? You'd put yer revenge before other lives? Before this city? My job is to serve this city, and if you get in the way of my duty, I will fight tooth and nail to end you.  If you kill me, big deal. I'm a nobody. A bastard hunter with  not a name to carry. But If I kill you, an entire line is gone. Your whole family legacy will be wiped off the earth. You really wanna risk that over simple ranger with no name and family? Ask yerself that before moving, boy."

[Private to DM Ryan: Trapper holds his weapon in front of him(I ready an action to make a full attack if marcus strikes at me)]
This message was last edited by the player at 16:32, Mon 24 Aug 2015.

'Sister?' Imbellem thought to himself... He looked down the line of his friends; male male male male male male - girl girl. A blank stare followed. 'Well, ones an elf, and the other is a human so... also he looks a little bit like-' with a sudden eye-roll 'oh. Jaq's brother, okay.'

The Trapper said his peace, seemingly ready to kill the man who stood before him. "Excuse me, Mr. Jacquelines brother-" "Marcus" interrupted a voice stated next to him. "Thank you" the cleric said turning his head slightly. "Marcus, you've been scouring the bazaar for quite some time now like you said, you must have seen many things. Within the hour, blood may flood these streets. I understand your pain and anger towards Adwonus and I dont blame you in the slightest." The orc looked over at imbellem, slightly angered, in response imbellem shrugged and raised his eyebrows as if to say 'what, its true.'

Imbellem stood next to the trapper, trying to reason with this man he never met. "We simply do not have the time for this, you two can fight to the death after, or you can heed his words. If you were to die, your bloodline would die with you. Is that what your family needs? You must think about the more pressing matters, like the pirates attack for example - right now." Imbellem set his hand on his morningstar and the small cross he had on his wrist slipped from his sleeve. "Neither of you will die now, I wont allow it, but this man has protected me, and I him, so I will help him if you choose to attack now. Frankly, he still owes me one, so id rather cash that in before he kicks the bucket." Imbellem lowered his head slightly, looking at the dark haired blood of Larben across from him through furled eyebrows. "If your personal vendetta is more important than an entire city and its people, you are a fool. If you want to fight, so be it. Now is not the time. Help your friends - your sister to save this city. Then you can do as you please. If not, you will not slow us down."

"Please sir," He continued, tone shifting; "Both the city, its people, and all of us could use your help." The cleric pleaded, "Please, dont do this now. There are much more important matters at hand."

Imbellem took the time while speaking to look at the man, his gear, the way he stood, as well as his weapons, to try and get a read on his fighting style. He also took note of his emotional status, was he willing to listen to reason? or would blood need to be spilled...



[Private to DM Ryan:
Imbellem Tueri rolled 8 Sense motive Marcus, listen to reason, or set on attacking.
Imbellem Tueri rolled 20 Spot check marcus, gear, level.
Imbellem Tueri rolled 12 Diplomacy check reason with Marcus.

Imbellem Tueri rolled 8 Diplomacy check Zin, Pyrra, Buddy, help in case of brawl/grapple fight.

Should the grapple action be used, I shout for Zin, Pyrra, and buddy to assist whoever needs it the most to keep the two apart, as well as keep damage from being done.]

[Private to Dwalin Grayhammer; Herr Johannes; Lady Jacqueline Raynelde; Mikael Vaeltaja: I ready a grapple action on the nearest attacking man, should the need arise to assist any other grapplers]
This message was last edited by the player at 03:10, Tue 25 Aug 2015.

Jacqueline stepped forward, sheathing her dagger. She gave one long stare at her brother and narrowed her eyes, checking to make sure he was okay, not drunk, and/or well enough to receive a new message from her. Without warning, she drew her hand back and swung a furious slap across her brother's visage. "Don't you dare disappear like that again!" She cast an equally furious glare at Adwonus and shook her head slowly as a warning. "Look. You both can kill each other later, and I won't stop you from trying.

"However," she gripped her brothers chin to force him to look into her eyes. "We have something more important at hand. If you can hold it in until we can complete this mission in squashing out the plans of Aldyde, that's all the time that we need from you." She stepped back, releasing her brother, and folded her arms. "Our mother is who I'm looking out for. And I plan to honor the death of who could have been a father-figure in our lives. That was the closest to a family that I had been in, in years. Don't think that I don't identify with the pain you're experiencing."

She swallowed hard, and then clicked her tongue. Her brow had not changed from furrowing. "But killing for the sake of revenge doesn't bring anyone back, and it won't make our family any more complete. It'll only temporarily soothe your ache, but then you have blood on your hands... something worse to deal with than the loss of..." She ducked her chin, biting her lip and closing her eyes for a time. She trembled for a moment, balling her hands up into white fists.

"I... am not ask-king you to f-forgive, nor f-forget.. He r-really did steal someth-thing precious from us.... But I cannot let you kill him j-just yet. For as much-ch as he is an annoying h-half-orc," she didn't bite the words as harshly as last time, but they still didn't harbor much compassion. "We need as many as possible with what time we have to get to the real culprits behind the death of Larlben, and freedom of our people."

Before seeing Marcus again:

After searching the pirates I speak of the loot and what to do with it, then as we make our way to our next objective (Buddy's boat) I chat about our recent conversation.

"It seems you two {speaking to Buddy and Zin} go way back then eh? You just Buddy's teacher Zin? or did you both work together on any adventures before this too?

Hmm, excellent to find more loot. Who had room in their pack? Unless we wanted to just quick find a place to stash it, like in this boat you mentioned Buddy. Is there a good place there or near there? I am sure we will find more and we can not be weighted down on a day like today.

Speaking of loot, we will have to get that box later Mikael, we need to proceed undelayed to the castle as Pyrra said.

We can divide up this loot later if necessary, unless anyone has an immediate use for any of this?"

(If no one else does) I bundle all the loot up with the gold and carry it in my arms until...

We run into Marcus again.

I drop the loot in my hands and ready my guisarme. [Private to GM: I ready this because I could trip either man to slow them down]

I address Marcus, as everyone has.

"Marcus, it is good to see you again. I would tell you the same as all these others have told you, but I am sure you heard them. I will explain the situation- something they did not mention yet. Even though your rage may be seething and it may seem like there is nothing left but revenge, do not forget your father's wishes for the city. Did he not want to see this city freed from the pirates (and by pirates I mean ALLDYDE ~to Buddy), freed from tyranny. We are all agreed on this point. Everyone gathered here. We all agree that Alldyde is not the leader we want for this city. We will not stand by while he seeks to subjugate all those here. Your Father's vision can still be realized. Join us! and see it come to pass! Let vengence be brought against the true source of this pain, ALLDYDE.

Now I will explain. We are gathered to stop Alldyde. Somehow he has gotten the army to be brought north. He had captured us all. We were sentenced to death, Taisiya let us go free, Kelden is to take over the castle from Steyus, and while their forces are weak from fighting, Alldyde plans to murder him and take over the city for the pirates. With their new leader they are ruthless, organized, and powerful. The city would be secretly under the control of Alldyde. If we think Alldyde will stop there we are naive. He will attempt to take over all Herrod. He will not stop.

Many of us here disagree between Kelden, Steyus, and Larlben. We have put our disagreements aside to destroy the threat to us all. I do not presume to know your loss, it is beyond what I wish to even consider. I know you may not believe me, but I have read that it would be possible even still to bring your father back to be with us. In tomes and holy texts. I do not know if you can receive this yet, but it is possible. I speak of miracles from heaven, not from the netherworld. Dismiss it if you wish, but does not even the Holy Word of our Lord speak of Saints of olde walking with the living when Christ was risen, a mans bones being brought back to life by Elisha's body, Lazarus raised from the 4th day of death, after all hope is lost, by Christ. I do not presume to brush aside what happened, but I want you to know there is hope. The pain you feel is indescribable, but please do not give up hope, do not give up on your father's dream.

If for nothing else, let us not fight now, for we need to save our strength for the battle at hand. Even if you 2 fought here, would it not end merely as one killed by their foe here, and the other killed by Alldyde? Marcus, Adwonus, more people important to you are at risk while Alldyde survives, let us not give him the chance to succeed in his plans this day. Now let us all depart to the boat and delay no further, let us not find ourselves too late because of a stand off this day. Let us depart with expediency.

     ...AND LET THERE BE NO CONFLICT BETWEEN YOU 2 {I look at Adwonus and Marcus} UNTIL AFTER THE BATTLE AT AN APPOINTED DUEL. WE HAVE NO ROOM FOR CONFLICT BETWEEN US LEADING UP TO THE BATTLE. Marcus, you have men that work for you? Have them help us. If you are concerned with conflict before the battle if you travel with us, go with them and we will look out for eachothers team separately. Oh, and one last thing, Alldyde was responsible for the conflict between Kelden and Larlben. He cause the conflict at the Inn, Kelden's men did not, Alldyde did."

[Private to GM: {If one of them aggressively charges I attempt to trip them. I consider how well they took my words and how they will act. I anticipate their actions so to know how to react and order others in the party to do so (Grapple them before they fight)
22:51, Today: Secret Roll: Herr Johannes rolled 15 using 1d20.  Sense Motive of Adwonus; MQ.
22:51, Today: Secret Roll: Herr Johannes rolled 20 using 1d20.  Sense Motive of Marcus; MQ.}]

[Private to not Adwonus Swillman; not Marcus Larlben:
I whisper to the others, "If they begin to fight or look like it, grapple them. I will try to trip one."
{ready an action to grapple}
roll a sense motive and maybe a diplomacy. ]
This message was last edited by the player at 03:02, Tue 25 Aug 2015.

Felling rather swept away by the moment, Imbellem forgot about the looting that had occurred before they left the structure... After the situation with Marcus concludes, Imbellem offers his pack to ease the weight off Herr Johannes' shoulders

Lady Jacqueline stepped in front of her brother, darkening her glances at Johannes. She also kept a stern eye on Adwonus. "So help me, God Almighty, I will knock you both (Adwonus and Marcus) out if you can't behave." She paused for a second. "Dear, me... I sound like my mother."
This message was last edited by the player at 03:19, Tue 25 Aug 2015.

Marcus touched the side of his face where his sisters hand had so kindly graced it. It still stung, and he was sure if he had a mirror handy he would see an angry red hand-print. He looked to each person in turn, dark blue eyes very pointedly meeting each party members' in turn. "Are you all quite finished?" He paused for only a moment, not enough to let anyone truly answer.

"Good. Now if you are all done preaching to me, in some cases literally, the merits of swallowing my pride for the good of the city and listen to yourselves, you'd realize who you're speaking to." Marcus looked to his sister. "I've told you more than once. This city is also my family. I'm not giving up anyone." Then to Imbellum. "I know not who you are, so I'd expect you have no idea of who I am. Do you truly think it your place to advise me?" He shook his head lightly, turning to Johannes. "I understand you think you are helping, but- Ow." He winced, touching his cheek again. "Damn, you made me bite it, sister. Nevermind, Johannes, I don't have time for this."

At last, he turned again to Adwonus. "And you. You've been nothing but a conniving cur from the moment I met you. But as I said, we have unfinished business. Alldyde needs to be stopped. And as you've cause my family a great bit of grief, I'm pressing you into service to that end. Alldyde is finished, or your debt is unpaid. My father, as dear as he was to me, was a fool. It has been made readily apparent to me that he wasn't fit to lead this city, and I'm not sure I ever really thought him to be. So I don't fault you for taking out a threat." He paused his tirade, realizing that a tinge of fury had crept into his voice. He breathed, then continued. "Aide me in protecting my home, and my 'vendetta' with you is square."

The surviving head of the Larlben family then turned from his companions, still holding his face. "Now, shall we? Unless someone wants to question my sanity again?"

"I suppose we all may have misjudged you Marcus, for that I apologize. You make me realize once again who I am. I pray I have not offended you too greatly." I bow apologetically. "We have all been under a great deal of stress. I ask for your forgiveness."
     I think to myself of Marcus distaste? for his father, I consider a moment to myself in a sadness, seeing the unresolved conflicts still resident, before moving on.

Before Dwalin has a chance to speak to Marcus he responds to the group. "Well that's a relief. If someone killed my father i dont think i could have stopped myself from trying to kill him. Well I think its time to get to work"

Jacqueline folded her arms over her chest, narrowing her eyes at her brother. "Fine," she said, after a pause. "But don't just run off without me." Softening her gaze, she smiled and embraced him, burying her face for a moment. "Good to have you back, Marcus."

Jacqueline released Marcus from her embrace. He smiled at her, despite the lingering redness on his cheek. "Good to be back." Resuming a stolid countenance he looked at Adwonus, awaiting an answer to his proposal, "Agreed?" Adwonus took a deep breath and lowered his axe. "Agreed." [Private to Herr Johannes: They seem earnest in their speech.] [Private to Imbellem Tueri: They seem earnest in their speech. Marcus is dress only in a fine shirt and trousers with a long sword at his side.]

Relief came over the adventurers like a wave, followed by an actual wave, which broke against the quay and sprayed them with a gentle mist. The morning sun bathed the harbor in light. Clouds overhead, large and billowy, shined gold on the side of dawn, contrasting deep shadows on the opposite side. Overlooking a dark blue sea, the world this morning was a vibrant display of color and beauty. It was marred only by the shouts of violence in the distance.

Once again Marcus was with them, and for the first time, the goal of every adventurer was aligned. They knew what they had to do. "Let's get going," spoke Buddy. His words invigorated the adventurers, and, now united, they hastened toward the docks. Buddy led them past several magnificent ships which towered over them; some had several masts with seemingly countless white sails, majestic in every respect. And then there was Buddy's ship.

Or better said, his boat. At the end of the row was a small schooner, rocking against the hull of a much larger ship beside it. The schooner had no interior cabins or hold, but simply a conservative deck where a few men could sail comfortably – or in this case, ten could sail uncomfortably. Imbellem spoke, "Uhh... This is... nice." "Hey, it'll work," Buddy cheerfully insisted, detecting the sarcasm. "Besides, you're going to a secret entrance right? You want to be discrete." "That's right," Herr Johannes corroborated. "This is perfect. Come, there's no time to waste."

The adventurers crowded onto the deck of schooner while Buddy positioned himself at the rear, where he could control as much of the rigging as possible. The knots were untied, the anchored hulled up, and, with a shove, they launched the boat from the dock and into the bay. The wind picked up in the sails. And after a few minutes, they were speedily soaring across the rough waters of the Bay of Andor.

Ahead of them, to the north, they could see their destination. The Castle of Herrod stood perched atop a great cliff watching over the entire city. From almost anywhere in Herrod, a citizen could gaze upward and see the castle in the distance; this would inspire them with hope. But now, it filled the adventurers with fear, for at this very moment, both Steyus and Delcor were heading toward their doom inside the Castle. And in the end, the only victor would be the Pirate Lord Alldyde. The adventurers knew they had to stop this. And so with the eastern sun casting gold rays across the bay, they sailed, to where the fate of Herrod would be decided once and for all.