A couple of days of travel brought you back to the stretch of jungle where the army of undead was busy trying to push the jungle into the river.

They were still working busily away far to the west of you, but there were two new additions to the scene that weren't here when you were through before.

The first was a dinosaur, a triceratops in fact, that was standing quietly at the edge of the jungle.  If it hadn't been a terribly large reptile, you would have sworn that it was watching the activity with a critical eye.

The second, off to the east of you, was a sight that would make most doubt their senses.  A four towered keep, of a style more common in the north and almost unheard of here in the jungle rode on the backs of what appeared to be the walking skeletons of a few dozen tortoises.

Rand picks his way through the jungle until his gaze happens upon the tricertops.  When it does he quickly drops to his knees before he begins to pray he stutters, Ubtao watches..
After he finishes his prayer he rises and points to his friends, Ynvaar mostly.  Ubtao watches his children.  There is an unbalance in Chult and Ubtao means to fix it.

 What the ...?, Look at the size of that ummm...animal, whats he watching?, the tower or the undead?. Not our business at this moment, let us go on since it appears the undead workforce has moved away from the path.
 Scanning the path ahead for surprise's, he moves forward with a steady travel pace.

 Whatcha think the undead tower thing is?.

"Keep an eye on Ynvarr incase he decides he wants to cook that thing for supper"

Rand solemn state is temporarily halted by Pug's accurate observation of Ynvaar.  Nudging the Tempurian in the ribs Rand gives him a smile and then continues on the path.  I am puzzled by the sight of those creatures carrying that tower.  I do not recall ever hearing of that before.

Ynvaar returned his friends' grin and fell into pace as the others moved off again, one last lingering look over his shoulder at the enormous triceratops as it scrutinised the events unfolding nearby.

Could this be Ubtaos' avatar?

Shrugging his shoulders slightly to himself, the cleric eyed the huge tower like structure.

"I too have not seen the like. Such a mobile fortification would enjoy significant tactical advantages, but who would reside in such a place?

_{Our path will bring us back this way again methinks...}" he finished, mumbling almost to himself.

As afternoon started to drift into evening, and you stopped to camp and rest, a small white dove fluttered in from the northeast.  It settled on top of your gear, near the bag of netting that held Kincaide’s transformed shape.  The small viper that had been your employer suddenly appeared agitated and started trying to wriggle itself free from the netting.

Gazeing at the dove, grom wondered what it was doing, Hmmm, wonder if it thinks the snake is something to eat?, snake is a little big to eat i would think.
 I dont remember seeing doves flying around the jungle here but then iam not from here anyway, does seem strange, snake doesnt seem happy to see it either.

 Turning to the others in camp, Pug, can i see the blow dart tube, i would have a look at the runes on it.

Ornithology not being one of the clerics' strong suits either, Ynvaar eyed the dove as Grom spoke and whipped out his dagger.

Dove, Vulture, whatever... looks tasty to me!

[Private to DM Jim: OOC> Ynvaar rolled 11 using 1d20+4. Dagger hit roll Vs delicious dove ;-)   ]

I do not recall ever seeing anything like that either.  It cannot hope to eat the snake.  Rand seems just as puzzled as everyone, only Ynvaar would look at it and see a meal.

The dove just sat quietly as Ynvaar's dagger lashed out, not even attempting to avoid the blade, but it passed harmlessly through its body.

The small white dove fluttered briefly and stared at the small snake. A moment later, the viper began to expand, its scales stretching as it regained human form, ripping out from the bag of netting that Ynvaar had used to confine it.  From the tip of its tail, it split into what rapidly became a pair of legs and the transformation progressed up its body from there, ending at Kincaide’s head.  For a moment, even after the rest of the transformation appeared to have finished, a thin, forked tongue fluttered from between his lips, and his eyes were the golden slits of a snake before slowly resolving into the green that were Kincaide’s normal color.

He grabbed up the handful of insect netting that had so recently been his home, letting it fall over his arms and fold in bunches in front of him.  It wasn’t a complete covering, but it did at least allow him to retain some semblance of modesty.

As he became fully himself again, the dove fluttered from the pile of gear, landed on his shoulder, touched his ear with its beak and then vanished.  Those of you with sharp eyes would almost swear that it slipped into his head rather than simply disappearing.  Kincaide’s eyes flickered closed for a moment, then he groaned and nodded before looking back to you. ”Only a day out of Mezro?  Too late..."

"Ahh, my friends, we tried, but the spells of the serpents were too much for me.  I must return to Mezro and craft a sending to my master.  Perhaps there will be something else that you can help me with in the future.”

“If the inn where I found you was to your liking, I’ll pay your bills there for a few days, while I decide if I have other work to offer you.  You’ll have a place to stay at no cost to yourselves, and I’ll be spared the trouble of seeking you, should I need you.”

OOC: You did see something much like it when Kincaide sent a small white bird flying east as you were leaving Mezro.

Hemmel actually smiles as their guide returns to human form.  "Once less victim that the jungle can claim is a victory in itself."

Welcome back, good to see you are well again.  Rand claps Kincaid on his shoulder trying not to glance lower than Kincaid's head.

 Watching the transformation back he was reminded of some of the druids he had meet, who could change to other forms, somehow i dont think this is the same magic.
 Well now, seeing as ye be joining us are ye up to the march back to the city?, in truth i dont think i would want to be carrying ye out on a streacher.

Kincaide nodded shakily, "I think I can travel.  Let me find my spare robe, and we can finish our journey."

For just a moment, Ynvaar looked aghast as his dagger passed straight through the 'dove' as if it were no more than campfire smoke on the wind -though wether from surprise at such a strange and inexplicable occourance or from good old fashioned dissappointment at being denied a tasty meal was anybodies guess...

"What the!?!?..."

The priest stood transfixed as their one time employer reappeared before their very eyes, any attempt to hide his obvious surprise a futile effort. Regaining his composure somewhat, the Tempuran sheepishly slipped the enchanted dagger back in his belt sheath and mumbled absently "Er... Well again." Albeit with little enthusiasm.

[Private to DM Jim: Ynvaar rolled 21 using 1d20+6. Spellcraft (ID the bird/spell "thingy").  ]

PM

[Private to Ynvaar: I really don't know.  I was thinking it was something like a higher level version of Whispering Wind, but I just picked it up from FoxPaws' storyline with Kincaide.  With a Spellcraft check that high though, you'd probably be willing to bet that the bird wasn't the cause of Kincaide's transformation.]

"No problem"

Pug rummages in his pack and finds the items to pass onto Grom.

 Looking at the blow gun tube, i examine the runes on the side of it as we head back to the city,

Grom could easily recognize the runes as Dethek, the traditional runes used for dwarven writing.  The workmanship on the blowgun was also most likely dwarven, as few members of any other race can match dwarven metalwork.  The inscription seemed to be some sort of prayer for blessing in the hunt to someone referred to as the Disentangler.

Grom finished his study of the blowgun as you traveled, at about the same time that the walls of Mezro came into sight.

Home again.  Shall we meet at the same inn as before? asks Rand as he crosses under the archway of the city's from gate.  I have to meet with the priests at the temple so I can alert them about what we saw on our way back.

Shielding his eyes from the sun as he looked across the square, Ynvaar shook himself from his reverie and turned to answer Rand  "Aye brother, the same... unless you want me to come with you and speak with the priests?"

 Looking up as the city walls open up thru the jungle curtain, he blinks his eyes at the blow-gun and hands it back to Pug.
 These are dwarven runes for certain, giving homage to something called the disentangler, who or what is that?.
 He is half thinking of the dart gun as he pass's into the strange city with its by now stink of unwashed bodys (not their own anyway), of sewage running nearby, of the tanner just outside.
 Then the smell of fresh food and ale hits his scent, at that he smiles and agrees.
 That inn was fine, he has several fleas who need to find a new home, when i take a bath iam thinking.

Thank you, but no, this I must do alone. Rand pats the Tempurian on the back, since reaching his shoulder is like getting something off a high shelf.  Rand takes his leave and travels to the temple of Ubtao where he reports his findings to the priests.

[Private to DM Jim: Rand then leaves the temple and makes contact with Ytepka leadership to discuss with them what he has seen and what he has been up to.]

Ynvaar gave his friend a grentle smile and nodded slightly before watching Rand walk away, he had already known the answer before he spoke.

"And I must pay my respects to the Foehamnmer at the shrine over yonder. You are each most wecome to join me if you wish. Failing that I shall meet you all in the taproom presently." he remarked to the others and set off toward the sword shrine to make an offering for the soul of Kors Artis and give thanks for their victory.

OOC: *chuckles* You move too fast for me sometimes. :-) I'm going to back your conversation up to just outside the gates, so I can use what I'd written while I was at work.

As you finished your conversations and turned to enter the gates of the city, Ynvaar catches one of the guards waving frantically but surreptitiously at him.  The young man wears leathers still shiny from their bath in boiling oil, the metal studs still shining, and carries a sword whose scabbard still shows no traces of dust or dirt.  It takes Ynvaar a moment to place the man as the beggar who he’d given Kincaide’s initial payment to.  At about that moment though, a guard sergeant came around the corner, and the young man snapped back to something that might pass for ‘attention’.

With the sergeant was a man, tall even for a Tabaxi and almost skeletally thin.  He would have been taller except for the stoop of his age. You’d guess his age somewhere on the up side of 70, but he still moved with energy, and his face lit up as he saw you.  He said to the sergeant, ”See, I told you.  Ubtao must surely be guiding me today!”

He turned his attention to you, and even Ynvaar had to look up to the man’s face. He spoke rapidly and a bit louder than was probably necessary in the common tongue, not even pausing in his flow to allow you time to answer the questions he was asking.  “You!  Are you adventurers?  I’m Manayu. I need men or women who can face the jungle.  Since you’re walking in on your own feet, I’d say you’ve managed to survive out there.  I was just telling Kanma here that I knew I’d find adventurers at the city gate. Am I right?  I need heroes.  Are you heroes?  Or are you the sort to take a man’s cash and run for the harbor and cooler climes?  I need men who’re tough enough to survive and face danger, but good and honest enough to bring back a prize without thieving it.  Ha!  If I were just 20 years younger, I’d go myself, but now I have to hire heroes.  Are you heroes?” He stopped suddenly and peered from face to face as though daring you to make the claim.

[Private to Hemmel; Pug: Manayu’s excited conversation with you is being watched by a woman sitting atop the wall, leaning against the gatehouse.  She’s sitting unobtrusively, with her arms crossed and her eyes almost closed, but you saw her head turn toward you when Manayu started bubbling away.  Her clothing and skin tones tell you she’s not local.  She could pass as a native anywhere from Cormyr to Waterdeep, but almost certainly not here.  Her long brown hair fell in a ponytail over one shoulder, against the cream pale skin of her face.]

Rand says nothing, he just stands near the back of the group.

Ynvaar stopped dead in his tracks and turned to face Manayu with a broad grin. Looking over the tall mans' shoulder, the clerics smile grew wider still as he caught the eye of the young beggar turned armsman he had 'recruited' with Kincades' gold.

His momentary pang of homesickness evaporated instantly and the priest fairly beamed with undisguised pride as he smiled warmly at the Tabaxi. His arm outstretched, he offered both men the warriors forearm handshake and began to speak easily in the matter of fact way common to fighting men all accross Torril.

"Aye friend, we are adventurers.  We have travelled the jungles for many days and nights and made a few friends here abouts for our deeds. We have sought out Mezoar and his lost druids, brought medicines to the healers of the deep jungle, battled countless undead and even a devil in the lost ziggurat, escorted Kincade here through the trees and most recently laid waste to a foul cult of Sseth that polluted the lands nearby with its vile abominations... but Heroes you say?" *shrugs* "Perhaps one day, for now though we are content to merely be good men and help where we can."

Glancing at the sergeant, the younger man stepped forward to eagerly return Ynvaar’s handshake and then almost bounded back to his post.

Manayu, on the other hand looked a bit uncomfortable with the handclasp, but returned it with a good attempt and a smile. ”Good men are worth a great deal.  And those that are willing to help where they can often earn the name of hero for their own.”

Visibly restraining his natural chatter, he paused for a deep breath. ”I need help.  Or maybe I should say that all of Chult needs help.  And those who can truly help will be heroes in deed, if not in name.  Who knows, they may even make a name for themselves.  Great danger will stand before them, but great treasure as well, if the legends are true.  You may have heard of the Heart of the Jungle?  Old scrolls from deep in the Library have just been translated...” He paused and almost shone with pride, leaving little doubt who’d done the translating. ”...that tell me not only where the Heart may best be found, but why it must be.  But that’s no story for a busy street, and too long for men who’ve had no rest or refreshment from the jungle.  Will you come to me this afternoon at the Library?  Ask the gateman for Manayu, and he’ll bring you to my study.”

 As the stopped at the gate he watched the guards around them and wondered who is this lark?. He bounce's around and his mouth trys to ourrun his body if thats possible.
 As he listened to the conversation and the sweat flowed down his face, he grimaced at the others standing about and pushed his way thru the crowd in front of him, Didnt have this much trouble getting thru with the Snakemen, now these people are standing in my way of getting something to drink, stand aside or be moved aside.

With a few choice elbow jabs here and there, Grom managed to make his way through the crowd, leaving the conversation about possible heroics and possible treasure behind.

The Tempuran watched the dwarf stomp off toward the inn and grinned. Shooting the entrance a lingering glance as Grom bustled forward, the priest turned back to Manayu and smiled again.

"I confess I have not heard of this 'Heart of the Jungle' you speak of but perhaps, as you say, that is a conversation for later.

I am Ynvaar, Ynvaar of Tempos and I shall be honoured to accept your kind invitation later this afternoon Manayu. -Just as soon as our other business is concluded..."  he concluded with his customary warm smile, his eyes wandering back to the taproom as he licked his lips.

I hope the dwarf leaves some for the rest of us!

"Fine by me but we might want to keep an eye out at the meeting this afternoon as I think we we were being watched"


OOC : Pug then goes onto describe the women who was watching


 "Anyway that can wait until this afternoon , I doubt there are any pit traps to fall down in the street so I'm for following the Dwarf to the bar"

Pug then heads off in search of Grom

Are you sure they were watching us, Pug?

Rand waits by Ynvaar until he has finished speaking to the old man about this upcoming job.  Once Ynvaar leaves Rand will go to the temple of Ubtao.

OOC: I'll just copy down the description from the PM to Pug and Hemmel to cover Pug's passing information to the rest of the group.

Manayu’s excited conversation with you is being watched by a woman sitting atop the wall, leaning against the gatehouse.  She’s sitting unobtrusively, with her arms crossed and her eyes almost closed, but you saw her head turn toward you when Manayu started bubbling away.  Her clothing and skin tones tell you she’s not local.  She could pass as a native anywhere from Cormyr to Waterdeep, but almost certainly not here.  Her long brown hair fell in a ponytail over one shoulder, against the cream pale skin of her face.

[Private to Rand Al Thor: Let me know how you want to deal with the visit to the temple.]

 Pushing his way thru the crowd at the gate, he scratchs at a few of the insect bites that had gotten thru to his skin.
 Heading down the street he lets his observation shift over the people in the streets, trusting his senses would warn him of any possible trouble before it gets to him, after all, we just came in from the jungle, my survival instints is still working well, umm, that is till a few pints anyway.
 Working his way around he finds the inn.

PM

[Private to DM Jim: We don't have to act out the trip to the temple and Ytepka contact if you don't want to spend the time.  It was something Rand would do after returning to town and before settling in at the tavern with the guys.]

PM

[Private to Rand Al Thor: I don't mind either way.  If you want to just summarize it, that's fine.  If you'd rather play through it for the character development, that's fine too.  If you have IM access and want to do it quickly, we can put our heads together and do it there, but not tonight.  I'm out the door to my son's football game.]

PM
[Private to DM Jim: I'll come up with something and post it this evening.  I think I will play it out after all.]

 Finding himself at the inn, he stops to take a deep sigh of wearyness.
Blinking his eyes he rubs at his grimey face, taking a look at the patrons as they give him a "what is that bum doing in here" look, ignoreing them he grabs a table figureing the others would be along shortly.
 Waveing at one of the harried waitress's, Ahh, miss, soon as ye have the time, could i be getting a pitcher of any cold beer and a mug  please, also i be needing a bath and a room for a day or two, thank ya now miss.
 Looking around to see if anyone is paying too much attention to him, he drops a gold coin in her hand, That should be covering it iam thinking, if your boss doesnt look close at the amount ye can be keeping the change, ifn he does look close at it then i be wanting the change back, miss.

With his customary (lack of) subtlety, Ynvaar turned to look for the mysterious woman almost as soon as the words had left Pugs lips. Seeing nothing, the great Northman merely shrugged his armoured shoulders and smiled again at Manayu and the sargeant before bidding them both a good afternoon with the promise to seek them out again in due course.

Looking out across the sea of people in the square, Ynvaar caught sight of Groms' back dissappearing into the inn and set out at a determined pace to catch him up when a thought struck him. With an almost reluctant last glance back toward the taproom the priest sighed faintly and turned instead toward the rude shrine at the edge of the square.

Business before pleasure and all that I 'spose.   he thought somewhat ruefully as he came to his knees and bowed his head in prayer before the shrine.

Some time later with the proper respects and observances paid, Ynvaar rose to his feet once more and fairly ran across the square at a pace that might of sent any unwary goodwives in his path diving for cover had his route not been mercifully free of obstructions. Arriving in the doorway, the cleric paused momentarily to allow his eyes to become accustomed to the dim light within and smiled as he quickly spotted Grom.

If he hasn't got the ales in ready I wont kill him.  ...I'll just injure him a bit.   he thought with a grin, but waved to the beleagured bar wench merrily, just in case.

Rand enters the temple and asks to see the head priest.  When he is greeted by the priest he asks to speak with him in private where he begins to explain to him what he has witnessed on his last foray into the jungle.

[Private to DM Jim: Father, not more than 3 days walk out of town there is the biggest congregation of the undead I have ever seen or heard of.  This army does not march to war, though.  Instead they work to clear the land of trees and all other manner of living thing.  On my way back in here I witnessed, what I believe to be, the avatar of Ubtao.  The biggest triceratops I have ever seen stood silently watching the undead clear cut the jungle.  It said nothing to me, nor did it even acknowledge my presence it just stood silently watching.]

 Sipping the semi cool beer, shortly he sees the big ceiling walker step into the Inn, as he stares around trying to see anyone, i wave over here, couple of mugs here, grab one. Taking another look at the cleric, he remembers how Ynvaar drinks, so turning and spotting the busy waitress, i hold up two fingers and make a wide circle, showing i want two pitchers of beer as i point at the big man sitting himself down at the table.

 Taking a look at the clerics face, he can see the wear of the travel had on his face, he could imagine his didnt look any better.
 Well, your business didnt take too long, iam only on my second mug.   umm, i have some hot water heating for my bath, i can tell the innkeeper to have a little extra hot water if you want to use it after me?.

Ynvaar popped the horned helm down on the empty bench beside him and ran a gloved hand through his sweat drenched hair before gladly accepting Groms' offered tankard. Raising the brew in gtreatful salute to his stocky friend, Ynvaar drained the contents in one long pull and set the empty tankard down on the table again, an enormous smile lighting up his whole face.

"Ayeee but that's good stuff!" he enthused as he leaned back into his seat with a satisfied and contented grin. Stretching his arms cat-like he then rubbed his eyes as if waking from a long sleep and belatedly turned to answer the Dwarfs' query about the bath  "Thank you no friend, perhaps I shall later but for now I'm thinking I shall have all the liquid refreshment I require right here."

A visibly relaxed Tempuran looked about once more for the bar wench as a thoughtful look passed across his face. "Bad business back in the tunnels with the dwarf eh? I'll wager that was not the way you expected to find your lost kin out here, but one thing seems certain; where there was one, there is sure to be more out there somewhere eh?"

The mugs of ale were cooler than the surrounding air... not that being cooler than this air was much of an achievement.  Still they went down smooth and washed some of the grit of the jungle trails from your throats.

[Private to Rand Al Thor: It seemed to you like the older priest wasn't very surprised to hear of the undead army, but did seem more startled by your description of the triceratops.  "Did this... triceratops do anything?  Did it seem to approve of the work of those that clear the jungle?  Or to find a problem in it?"]
This message was last edited by the GM at 03:11, Wed 18 Oct 2006.

Rand continues his conversation with the priest.  Where there was no ale being served.



[Private to DM Jim: It was hard to know what it was thinking.  It just stood there watching the entire process with what seemed like great interest.  Rand is somewhat taken back by the reaction of the priest, but quickly comes to the understanding that perhaps the triceratops was watching to see how well the undead were doing.]

PUG enters the tavern and pulls up a chair at the table where Grom AND Ynvarr are sitting.

HE waves his hand to get the attention of the nearest serving wench

"Another round for my 2 friends and 2 for me of what ever they are drinking"

Pugs looks at his two companions "Everytime I go drinking with you I always seem to be playing catch-up"

 Watching Pug enter and look around for them, he waves him over to their table, smileing a little at his distress at always being late for drinks.
 Have no fear of being late, this isnt a race to see who can pass out first, just a time to really relax for a while and get cleaned up.

 Sipping on his beer, he looks lost in thought for a few seconds then offers this idea, As far as the wild dwarves?, true, it is a sign they are around, still hard to believe they would leave the solid mountains.   I didnt see anything special on the blow tube as to where they could be, so i guess the search continues for me.

 Rubbing his dirty face, he looks over to the cleric, so what was that man at the city gates up to?, he seemed excited and rude to me.

Ynvaar looked up at Pug with an impish grin "That's because you drink like an elvish princess." and gave Grom a sly wink before answering the dwarfs' question as he forlornly peered into his empty tankard " Manayu? Umm, I think he said something about a trip into the heart of the jungle... wherever that is." *shrugs* "Can't be much farther than we've already been though I'll wager..." he added distractedly, his voice trailing off as he peered around the room for the serving wench.

Frowning slightly at her dissappearance at this most untimely juncture, the cleric turned back to the others with a sigh and added matter-of-factly "I said I would seek him out at the library this afternoon.  He mentioned something about some discovery he'd made or something and possibly a mission for us if you all fancy coming along?

Might be worth while since I don't think Kincade seemed optimistic about any more work just yet."  At least I hope he doesn't... rather too many unanswered questions surrounding that one and his master for my liking...

Now where in the nine hells is that ale wench?!?
This message was last edited by the player at 17:03, Tue 17 Oct 2006.

The ale wench turned up behind Ynvaar's shoulder with a tray of ales and a whispered comment. _{"Certainly there is no race to see who will pass out first.  Such actions will bring the barae down upon you."}

[Private to Rand Al Thor: The older priest simply nodded. "And was there anything else of interest that you encountered during your journey into Ubtao's jungle?"]

Rand continues his talk with the priest when the thought crosses his mind that he hopes his friends don't get themselves in trouble while he's away.  They do have a knack for finding trouble especailly when they aren't looking for it.

[Private to DM Jim: The group I have been traveling with has came across a small temple of Sseth.  It was inhabited by a handful of Yuan-ti and theu brood.  We cleared the temple destroyed it and left it. ]

Pug takes a long slow drink of his ale and then replies to Ynvarr

"If your keeping the meeting I'll hang back and follow you at a discrete distance to see if anyone is following.

I'll stay outside the library  hidden as well and keep an eye on things.
"
This message was last edited by the player at 11:13, Wed 18 Oct 2006.

Ynvaar nodded his agreement with Pugs' plan as the waitress wandered off. Leaning in closer towards his friends the priest confided in a whisper _{"No wonder there isn't a shrine to Lliira anywhere in town... the miserable sods round here probably had all the Joybringers burned at the stake years ago."}

No wonder Rand never sings. 'Tis probably a hanging offense.  The priest though sourly and took another pull from his tankard.
This message was last edited by the player at 17:01, Wed 18 Oct 2006.

 Finishing his beer, he leans back and lets the tireness start to drain off him as he ponders  What is a heart of the jungle?, is that what he said?.
 As he is enjoying the semi coolness, a loud noise rumbles thru the area around the table, he looks up as it dawns on him, that it came from him, face a little red he looks at his stomach, Sorry for that, guess it wants some attention, but its going to wait till i get cleaned up.

 Standing up to find the waitress, he turns back to Ynvaar, If you plan on going ahead and meeting with this guy, lets hope we get more answers before we start then from the last employer, be careful.

 Finding the waitress, he ask's where the bath's are, and that he would be hungry when he finished his bath.

Grom left Pug and Ynvaar to thier drinks.  The serving woman pointed him to the baths, and told him that a meal would be waiting for him when he finished.

[Private to Rand Al Thor: The older priest nodded. "That is good news indeed.  The snakes should be rooted out whenever they are found.  Their evil bows not to Ubtao.  If they did not claim their own Sseth, I would be sure that they are sent straight from Eshowdow."]

Rand thanks the priest for his time and he also thanks him letting him know that he made the right decision.  Father, I must depart.  I have one more stop to make before I meet back up with my group.  We have been inquired about to take on an adventure and I want to be there for the discussion.   Rand rises and then turns to leave.  About halfway out the door he stops and turns to the priest.  Please ask Ubtao to watch over these outlanders that I have come to regard as friends, father.  Especially the Tempurian, he needs it the most.  Rand then exits the temple, dropping a few golds into the offering box on his way out.  He moves on to his next stop.

At an unremarkable house in a residential section of Mezro Rand knocks on a door and giving a password is granted admission into the house.  [Private to DM Jim: Rand enters the house and shows his tattoo on his forearm and then asks to see Jonah, his Ytepka contact.  Once granted an audience he begins to tell the same tale that he told the priest, making sure to offer his observation on what the triceratops was feeling at that time.  The group I have been traveling with appears to be a good-hearted group.  They have all come for riches, but that does not seem to influence their every decision.  We invaded a temple of Sseth and cleared it of it's Yuan-ti inhabitants just because of the vile nature of the creatures.  We just arrived and have already been approached for another foray into the jungle.  This one I must attend, they have been requested to search for The Heart.  This man that is hiring them had said that scrolls in the library had been recently translated.  He wants them to bing it back so it could be used to help people.  OOC:I went ahead and made up a name for the contact so that you didn't have to.  If you have one you'd rather us I'll use that one instead.]

The Father watched Rand's departing back, and you could almost feel his smile as the coins clinked into the offering.  Perhaps they could be used for the good of the poor.

[Private to Rand Al Thor: Jonah listened with some agitation to your report, but relaxed when it became apparent that the triceratops was concerned with something besides your friends.  He nodded at the last comment, "Even if the Heart is nothing besides an enormous gemstone, it may still be used to help the people of Chult.  Though rumors and legends paint it with so many wonders that none of them may be believed.  See that it is used for good, or falls out of the hands of those who would use it for their own gain."]

Rather surprised by his friends reaction Rand asks him another question.  [Private to DM Jim: I would have thought that you would rather I prevent them from finding it, but you are in charge.  I shall see to it that it returns here to be put to good use.]

PM
[Private to Rand Al Thor: Jonah chuckled but answered, "If half of the stories that are told about it are true, I would be more comfortable with it here in Ubtao's temple, under the eyes of the barae than anywhere in the jungle.  Claims are made that the Heart can do anything that any of the barae can, and that's a wealth of power in itself.  Other claims are even more extravagent...  No, I'd rather have it where it can be watched than where it can be found by any who have enough power to claim it and who chance upon the right place."]

Rand bows as he pledges to his friend that he'll do the best he can.  He then returns to the inn where Ynvaar and Grom are mostly likely 3 sheets to the wind.

Pug finishes his ale and nods to Ynvarr
"I think I'll have a quick wonder round town to pickup some supplies before I have my bath, I'll meet you back here before we go to the meeting this afternoon"


[Private to DM Jim: Mr DM Sir what rules are we playing by when it comes to upgrading masterwork to magical weapons, Pugs go money burning in his pocket and would like a +1 added to his rapier, are we using book price , is there an add on ith us being in the jungle are is it not possible]

 Clean from his bath and with his less used travel clothes on he looks for the waitress that he had talked to about supper and a room, waving when he spots her he  points back to the table he had before.
 Feeling the fatique from traveling the jungle he allows himself to relax for a time, Be able to sleep without to much worry in a clean bed, ahh, that will be good for these bones.

Rand enters the inn and can see Ynvaar, Pug, and Grom all seated and either drinking or eating.  Taking a seat at the table Rand orders himself an ale.  Bring me an ale and whatever the same my dwarf friend is eating.  Rand then sits back and asks his friends how they are. So, how are things?  What is the plan with this next journey?

 Enjoying his supper of the chefs surprise, he gave thought to the jungle and what is in there, At least i have found a item that belongs to the lost dwarves, at the face of it that means they can be in the area, thats something anyway.

 Slipping one of his throwing axe's out and giving it a hard look, need to replace these, just dont have the range i need, thought i would be in thick cover most of the time and that the short range wouldnt matter, it does.
 After supper here, think i will take stroll to that bow merchant i talked to last time, maybe he has a good masterwork x-bow resonable, heh, yup.

OOC: Ynvaar NPC'd by DM Jim for a little bit of color as we move on. Hope I don't mangle this too badly.

Ynvaar answered Rand's question. "Don't know, but it's about time we find this Manayu and find out."  He tossed coins on the table, wiped the last of his drink from his lips, and rose, glancing over to make sure that Grom was done with his own meal before heading out.

The group paused at a weapons shop to allow Grom to get a more powerful weapon.  The Northman looked at the crossbow and slapped Grom on the shoulder. "Just be careful where you point that!  If you shoot like you throw..." He left the statement hanging in the air as he walked away, shaking his head.

As you neared the Library, you spotted Pug lounging inconspicuously outside, where he could watch the outside of the building.

Following the guide that was summoned for you, you soon found yourself outside of Manayu's study.  You heard a loud bang as you approached the door that seemed to come from inside the room, and nobody answered the guide's knock.

[Private to Pug: Outside the library, you spotted what looked like the same girl who'd been watching you from the city gate throw back the shutter on a third floor window and climb out.  She glanced around for a moment before starting to climb up the outside of the building.]

Rand couldn't help but laugh out loud at Ynvaar's observation of Grom's luck with his throwing axes.

As they approach the library and hear the bang on the door Rand looks to the others in bewilderment, What the devil is going on in there?.

PM

[Private to DM Jim:
Pug will try and follow the girl without being seem and see where she ends up.


I spent 1000 gp and converted my mw rapier to a +1 magic rapier]

Ynvaars' eyes knitted together in a concerned frown. "Let's find out." he replied and gave the door what -to the Tempurans' mind at least- might have been described as a 'gentle nudge' with his shoulder.

[Private to DM Jim: Ynvaar will try the door. If it's locked he will try and force it -but ony rolled a crappy 4 :-(  ]

The door to Manayu's study wasn't locked, and wasn't even truly latched, so it swung open easily at Ynvaar's 'nudge'.  Inside, the room was a mess, papers, scrolls, and books strewn about.  The shutters to the window were swinging shut as you looked in, and Manayu was on his knees near the desk, one hand on the desk, trying to rise, and one on the back of his head, as though massaging an injury.

[Private to Pug: OOC: The magic upgrade from mw should be 2000, instead of 1000, but as long as you have the cash, I don't have a problem with it.

For following the girl, I need some more information.  Are you trying to follow from street level?  Or are you climbing after her?  I'll also need some rolls.  Give me two Hide checks, two Spot checks, and if you're climbing, I need about four Climb checks.

IC: The girl slipped along a ledge until she reached a corner, then deftly climbed to the roof of the building.  Once she reached the top, she paused for a moment with her back to the street.  You couldn't see what she was doing, but a moment later, a large raven took wing from the roof top.  You could see something about the size of a scroll case dangling from its legs.  It was flying back in the direction of your inn, and eventually, the gates you entered through.]

Rand slowly puts two and two together and runs to the shutter, while he draws his blade.  Peering out of the window he looks to see if anyone is running away.

OOC: 18 on spot check

His face still a mask of concern, Ynvaar ran forward a pace and caught Manayus' arm to steady him before reaching for his holy symbol to recite a blessing to heal his wounds. "Are you alright Manayu?  What happened here?"

[Private to DM Jim:  Y will assess Manayus' wound. If it's a bad one he will cast Lesser Vigor to heal 15 hit points.]

PM

[Private to DM Jim: "Forget about the +1 weapon it wa sme being a plonker"


Pug gives chase to the girl, on reaching the roof if he can't see her anywhere he will assume she has polymorphed into the Raven and follow that as best he can.

If he makes it back to the inn he will not go in , neither will he contact the party, he will stay on a rooftop overlooking the inn and see if the girl or raven leave.

16:10, Today: Pug rolled 19 using 1d20+5. Climb .
16:10, Today: Pug rolled 13 using 1d20+5. Climb .
16:09, Today: Pug rolled 16 using 1d20+5. Climb .
16:09, Today: Pug rolled 13 using 1d20+5. Climb .
16:09, Today: Pug rolled 6 using 1d20. Spot .
16:09, Today: Pug rolled 13 using 1d20. Spot.
16:09, Today: Pug rolled 11 using 1d20+9. Hide .
16:08, Today: Pug rolled 25 using 1d20+9. Hide

]

Manayu's wound wasn't too serious, but the old man almost fell into his desk chair, holding his head in his hands and moaning. "My notes... she took my notes..."

At the window, Rand could see someone's feet disappearing over the roof, and a moment later, saw a large raven winging away toward Mezro's southern gates.  He could also see Pug clambering steadily up the side of the Library.

On the roof, Pug didn't see any sign of his target on his first look around, but as he moved to start back down the wall, he did spot her moving through the streets below, apparently heading toward the gates.

OOC: It still might be possible for Pug to pursue her, but it'll be tough, since she's already a corner ahead.  For the rest of you, unless you're able to climb down from the third floor, or to survive the jump from the window, she's probably well out of your reach, even if you can spot her.

 Finally arriving, he looks around at the mess and wondered of all mages were this messy?.

Ynvaar tried his best to give the man a consoling look, but somehow it only came off a little bit perplexed. "There there friend, fear not we will help you get your notes back... failing that, can't you just write them down again?"  the cleric replied soothingly, the significance of Manayus' research apparently completely lost on the burly Northerner.

Someone went up onto the roof! calls back as he sticks his head out the window.  A black bird flies to the South as well. he adds as he returns to the room.  Do we give chase?

Ynvaar turned to his friend and gave him a knowing smile as he slowly shook his head "No need, Pug was watching the front in case our mysterious lady friend should show up again. He'll take care of it."

Manayu looked at Ynvaar in bafflement for a moment, then shook his head and replied, "Of course I can write them down again, but they were the notes I'd been putting together to send with you. They're clues that point the way to the Heart of the Jungle!  Now someone else has them! By now, he was standing and almost shouting, glaring down at the Tempuran.

His voice calmed and began to pick up hints of despair as he wound down. _{And I don't know even who they are...}

Pug decides to give up the chase and make his way down to the party.

OOC > If there is a doorway on the roof I'll use that and make my way to the  party, failing that I'll climb down to th window.

"Ohhhhh... I see." Ynvaar said, though it was obvious from the way he shifted his weight nervously from one foot to the other that he clearly didn't have a clue why the old man was so very agitated.

What difference should it make if someone else knows the way out into the middle of the jungle?

Ynvaar blushed slightly and tried his best to give Manayu a disarming -if somewhat sheepish- smile.

Looking up from the dirty shop to the tall skinny human as he started yelling at Ynvaar.
 Groms face started to glow a reddish tinge as he could feel his anger at this stork trying to sound important.
 What Heart of the Jungle?, Moving over to stand next to the mage, he lifts his eyebrows at him, growling in his deep base voice to the mage, Dont be knowing  what ye have lost manling, but i do be knowing ye got no cause to be yelling at me friend and if ye dont shut your mouth this dwarf might be tempted to do it for ya.

Rand sheaths his sword and walks back to the group and places a calm hand on Grom's shoulder.  Be at ease Grom, the man just got thumped on his head.  We, "manlings" don't have such thick skulls. looking to Ynvaar he adds coyly, Well, most of us don't.

Ynvaar let out a deep baritone chuckle but stopped abruptly when he realised he was the butt of the joke and shot Rand a dark look through narrowed eyes "Hey!" he began, but quickly started to chuckle again after he had thought about it for a moment and clunked himself on the side of his helm with the butt of his axe "Aye, perhaps yer right." he agreed with a broad grin.

The tension broken somewhat, Ynvaar fixed Manayu with his best winning smile and asked in a soothing tone  "Now why don't you tell us what this is all about friend? ...Maybe we can help you."
This message was last edited by the player at 21:02, Tue 31 Oct 2006.

Pug slipped in through the window as Ynvaar finished his question.

Manayu looked puzzled but not intimidated by Grom's threat, but turned his attention instead to answering the northman's question.

"I apologize.  I forgot for a moment that you are outlanders.  Though even outlanders have often heard of the Heart of the Jungle.  Rumors of all sorts draw them here... an emerald the size of my head... magic enough to control half the forest... guarded by a tribe of warrior women... I could go on for days just relating rumors that have made it to my ears."

He paused and shook his head again, though whether to clear it or from amazement at what some people would believe wasn't clear.  When he spoke again, he was starting to regain some of the animation he'd shown at the gates. "Rumors or not, I think I've found the true story.  In books that were old before Ubtao himself raised the walls of Mezro.  In languages almost no one living could understand." He paused again, and almost visibly congratulated himself with a smug smile.

"I've found not only what the Heart looks like, but what it should be able to do.  It's not an emerald at all, but a giant ruby... the size of both of even your fists." He nodded to Ynvaar.

"And the powers it has... well, suffice it to say that I'm unhappy with that sort of power being guarded anywhere but here in Mezro.  Anywhere that Ubtao's barae don't guard can't be safe enough."

"I'll need the evening to get my notes copied out again for you.  And now it'll be as much a race as a hunt, if those thugs have any idea what they have."

"I asked you at the gates, are you heroes?  My books tell me that other treasures were hidden away with the Heart.  Those are yours, no matter how rich, if you'll bring the Heart itself back here safely."

He looked from face to face, as though asking for answers to the question he never truly asked. Will you do it?

The Tempurans' eyebrows raised in surprise as Pug reappeared through -of all places- the window?!?  But he didn't interrupt Manayu whos' tale was in full swing by now.

When the tall man got to the part about the ruby as big as both the clerics' fists, the priest balled both his hands and held them together as if to check just how big that really was before letting out a long and impressed whistle.

Ynvaar nodded occasionally in understanding as the man spoke and when the scholars' excited tale had finally drawn to a close, Ynvaar nodded again before looking around the group to gague his companions' opinions before he would give an answer.

Having heard tales of the Heart more times than he can recall Rand just stands there expressionless.  He, too, looks to the others to see how they react to the description of the gem.

 Still a little miffed at the skinny humans slight, he listens as the man goes into a long winded fanciful tale about a super big ruby.
 Now by nature dwarves like anything from the earth, but he had never heard of any tavern tales from dwarves about such a hugh gem and since when did gems have magical properitys?.

 Looking up to see if the Cleric or Rand were laughing at the tall tale, he could see they had swallowed the tale hook line and sinker.
 O come on now, you really believe this?, and what of the types of powers that it is claimed to contain?, is it right to place such powers in this mans hands?, i know he came down with the guards capt or some such but i would be careful to who came into such powers as he claims for the gem.

 He didnt really think he speach would make much inroad against their greed but he had to try.
This message was last edited by the player at 14:43, Thu 02 Nov 2006.

Manayu looked down at Grom with something more like respect. "You're right of course.  I'm not sure that even I would resist the temptation of that kind of power.  Instead of bringing the stone to me personally then, could you bring it back to Mezro and come with me to deliver it to the barae?  Surely Ubtao's chosen are worthy of your trust?"

"Actually, as an outlander I'm afraid I don't know too much about these Barae either to be honest." the cleric responed witha shrug of his shoulders  ...Except they don't have much of a sense of humor  "Perhaps you could tell us a little more about them and exactly what the supposed powers of this Heart of the jungle really are?"

Rand chimed in before Manayu had the chance, The barae are Ubtao's chosen guardians of Mezro.  They are granted power and authority in mezro by Ubtao himself.  If the barae order you consider it a direct order from Ubtao himself.  Bringing the heart to them would be one of the safest things we could do.

Manayu shrugged and replied, "The barae are Ubtao's chosen ones.  They serve his will and guard us here in Mezro.  Each of them was potent in their own right before they gave themselves to Ubtao.  He keeps them alive long past their natural span of years.  He gives each a mighty power.  They serve to protect Ubtao's lands... well most of them do."  He shook his head as though discarding a disturbing thought.

"As to the powers of the Heart... I really don't know.  Even the sources I found were vague and sometimes in conflict.  All that I can say for certain is that its power is great, but greater still within Ubtao's domain.  Perhaps it can control the animals of the forest.  Perhaps even the land itself.  There are many stories.  Too many for me to know which to believe."

"All that I can say for certain is that such power should be guarded well.  Better even than the histories say."

As Pug climbs through the window he sees Ynvarrs raised eyebrows

"You know I don't like stairs"

Pug then finds a place to sit before updating the party.

"Looks like my hunch about that women were true, it was her I saw climbing out of the wondow, I tried to follow but she polymorphed into some sort of bird and the last I saw she was flying out of town. Have I missed much"

 Listening to the mage, he looks ready to argue some more but shuts his mouth which cause's his beard to flair out a second.
 Looking up to Rand and Ynvaar he gives them a look that asks can we trust him?,

 Spinning around as Pug comes in thru the window, he slowly nods his head at the mage.
 Dont rightly know what these people your talking about but if they are guardians of the kings treasure then i reckon i be having no complaints about going out and picking up that trinket for ya, of course that be only if the others agree.

Ynvaar shook his head in answer to Pugs' question and gave Rand a quizzical look as Grom said his piece.
"What king?" he asked with a grin, silently mouthing the words behind the dwarfs' back. Shrugging and clapping Grom on the shoulder, Ynvaar nodded again at his diminutive companion before turning back to Manayu once more "Well then my friend, it looks like you've found yourself a group of heros.

We will leave you to your work and return for the notes at first light. That should give us all plenty of time to take care of any outstanding business and to make ready our supplies for an extended expedition." he noted over his shoulder as he strode purposefully toward the door.

There is much to do and little enough time to do it all I think.

Turning on his heel at the door he added  "I have a few things to take care of in Mezro before we set out again. All being well I'll see you all back at the inn later for an ale or two later this even.

Tempos guide your steps brothers."

Manayu grinned, then winced, rubbing his head.

"At first light then.  I'll have what you'll need, though my apprentices may be unhappy with the work I'll have for them this evening."

As you started out, he was already in the hallway, shouting names and instructions.

Rand looks to Ynvaar and grins, I don't envy them.  Walking towards the doorway he confirms the groups plan, So, we are to meet back at the inn after we finish our procuring of gear?

 Raiseing a busy eyebrow at the mage, he wonders how that Ynvaar so quickly accepted the mission?, still word was given of acceptance, so word must be kept in honor.

 alright, i be ready by the time ye be done, if i be needing to by extra provisions for how many days do i be buying for?.

OOC he will stop by and try to buy another healing potion or two, along with a couple of cure poison potions, think i can afford them.

Ynvaar grinned back at Rand and nodded in answer to his question before looking toward Grom with a shrug of his shoulders "Oh I should imagine we'll be gone no more than a month or so but we can probably forrage here and there and pick up a few things to tide us over on the way back. We'll probably need no more than a tenday at most but if you want to get a bit extra I can always squeeze it into my pack for you."

[Private to Grom Ironaxe: Actually I have no idea how many days rations we'll need but Ynvaar can put them into his Handy Haversack for you so you don't need to worry about carrying them. All things being equal I would err on the side of caution and get quite a lot.

Worse case scenario Ynvaar can cast Create food & water though so I wouldn't lose any sleep over it.]

OOC: Potions are fine at standard costs as well.

We'll move now to the new thread titled Chult: The Temple of the Heart

done reading got names