Evil Eye III - the Boy in Black

[Ikoma]

Marius began to fail his ruse and though the attention was off of Matton. Trouble was, Marius might just become the new target. "I said your loosing your mind. Next thing we know you will be gutting people who spit on your shoes again."

Intimidate = 22

At this point, things begin to happen quickly. Nathan made his way through the room, clapping everyone on their shoulder. Greeting them warmly.

Nathan appearance seems to diffuse the tension between Marius and the thug - momentarily. The sailing captain orders a round of drinks for everyone in the joint, causing a rousing cheer to go up.

Just as Ioan arrives at Totschlager's table, he hears the well dressed soldier ask politely, "Show me and I can tell you about your past."

Totschlager reaches to his head and pulls the clothe he had worn as a head covering free. It reveals a tattoo or a crow or maybe a hawk, branded in the forehead, marking Totschlager in a similar way to the other Falkovian soldiers you have seen all evening. Not all wear the brand of the State on the forehead. The commander is a solid man, looking to be in his late forties or early fifties. His close cropped hair is peppered gray among the blond hairs. He has numerous scars on his arms, testament to many battles survived. His eyes are slate gray and hard as granite.

As the serving girls distribute mugs around the bar, Nathan raises his high is the air and shouts, "Let us drink... to the WOLF!"

A chorus of wolf howls fill the air as the rowdy crowd cheers the man who appears to be their leader. The commander rather sternly yells, "Captain Timothy, you do remember the terms of our arraignment?"

Before Nathan can answer, another cheer arises from those in attendance who are seated by the pit. And Adam watched in sickened horror as a man... thin and starved from the appearance of him, staggered through a set of door at the bottom of the pit. Casting his eyes about, he spots the ladder. With a harried and haunted look on his face, he takes a staggering step toward the only potential avenue to safety. And that is when you all hear the growlling of a dog...

Initiative=20

Ioan has seen and heard enough.

He bows his head and invokes a blessing upon his friends (Bless), and, whether wisely or not, numbers Matton and the man in the pit among them. He then grabs a chair and leaps into the pit...

Dexterity check (with -7 Armor Check penalty)=5

...clumsily.

Without skipping a beat Hassid followed Ioan down into the pit moving to intercede between the dog and the other two.

ooc: Following as close on Ioans heels as he can he will place himself between them and the dog and dumping 5 points into Combat Expertise to bring his AC up to 23
Inititive = 9
Jump = 12
Tumble = 23

Seeing his friends jump into the pit, Marius realizes he is going to have to move fast. He concentrates on his innate abilities and surrounds himself with a protective force (mage armor) (new AC 16)

Feeling the hidden dagger in his sleeve, Marius' confidece grows. Moving at the rate of molasses, Marius remembers his words to Hassid earlier in the evening, “regardless of what happens, I’ve got your back.” He continues his bluff and focuses his anxiety toward acting mad, raising his voice and shouting, "all I wanted was a relaxing evening out with a friend and what do I get ... my shoes spat on,” he turns to his side, “shut up you’re the reason I’m in this mess,” turns back eyes full of madness and looks towards the pit, “the next person who touches my friend is going to have serious problems!”

Initiative=4 (Ouch)
Intimidate=10
Bluff=13

Adam is sickened by the site of the cheering crowd as one of the Lord's creature is about to be destroyed. This must be stopped and the the wicked taught the truth of their actions.

As his friends jump into the pit to save the poor man Adam will attempt to fill the pit with the jeering crowd. He hope is that the beast master will not release additional animals if he sees his friends in the pit. Also, that the crowd can feel the pain and fear of being in the pit.

As the bystanders gather around the pit Adam grabs the nearest table and upends it. He turns the top of the table so it is facing in front of him and rushes the crowd around the pit. His goal is to catch as many people unaware from behind and push them into the pit using the table to extend his reach. He will attempt to not fall into the pit as he pushes.

Initiative (1d20+1=3)
Strength (1d20+2=17)

OOC- I apologize for not posting. I've been in Amsterdam the last week for training and it was pretty hectic. I should be able to help the group out this week.

Yemam follows Ioan into the pit, standing side by side with the kind hearted cleric. "My friend, I have your back...as does Locke. Till the end"

As Yemam jumps into the pit, the dagger in his boot comes out and into his hand, ready to defend his friend and the man all are trying to help.

Init = 1+modifier

OOC: Sorry the weekend was really hectic and I wasn't able to post. I'm actually not by my computer and so I don't have my init. If our kind Dm could add my modifier to my roll I'd be grateful. Not that it matters anyway.

((Remember to post actions in the combat thread. I'll summarize and post back here. Also remember, use if/then statements to spell out your characters plan for the next round or two. Then I'll sort them together.))

The party catches the crowd completely by surprise. Ioan launches himself over the low rail and drops the 20' feet down to the bottom of the pit. Unfortunately, he lands awkwardly on his ankle (-4 HP).

Hassad follows right behind and is able to move closer to the man who he can now see is elderly on top of his condition. Yemam is only a step behind.

Marius turns and faces off against the two mean nearest him, both of whom had been focused on Matton. They are surprised and take a step backward out of shock more than anything.

Adam tries to throw the man next to him over the rail. However, by this point, no one is shocked and while the man is certainly pinned, he is not pushed into the pit.

Of course, the place reacts explosively. The soldiers spring into action. Thugs swear loudly as chiars are pushed out the way. Tables tip, drinks are spilled. All in all, the floor becomes a treacherous source of footing.

The three heroes in the pit with the old man, move to protect him. A dog (sorry for the picture), thin and starving, it's lips pulled back exposing all it's teeth, comes out of a tunnel. Hassid and Ioan can see, from their positions, a ways down to the tunnel. There is movement. Whether it is other dogs, their human handlers, or something else, you are not sure.

Marius moves towards Matton, who is backing towards the door as well. With horror (make a Fear save), he sees the man who had recently entered the bar... the one called Captain Timothy... change before his eyes. Where a seemingly normal sailor had stood, a hulking brute of a monster - half man, half wolf - stands snarling. Totschlager, Adam & Edgar notice with a sinking feeling that this is the same monster that lead the attack on them in the woods the last night before they reached Karina.

Marius is also bothered to note that the three thugs who had been most antagonistic toward Matton have also shifted form to man-beasts, although they are not as intimidating as the Werewolf Lord. Another patron... this one female... also shifts forms.

It seems this dog fight is organized for the benefit of a local pack of werewolves. And you have found yourselves surrounded. Those of you on the main floor envy those in the pit who find themselves in front of a single dog!

More soldiers pour into the room from behind the curtain against the north wall, obviously hidden. Totschlager is suddenly torn. Wracked with pain, his mind also seems to split into thirds. A part of him wishes to move to the aid of the party. Another part knows he should stand with the soldiers. And yet a third part feels a dark pull towards the beasts. It does not matter what his mind wants as his body betrays him and he falls to the floor - unconscious... for now.

Just as the room is on the verge of exploding into violence, a commanding voice echoes. It is the commander. His voice carries unexpected weight.

"STOP! I command you all to wait. My rules concerning this are clear. There is to be no violence in this place or it is DONE! Timothy, stand your pack down! Matton, who have you brought into this place?"

All eyes are on the commander. His hand is on his sword hilt. His soldiers stand with weapons ready. They are the only fully armed individuals in the place... unless you count the monsters with their teeth and claws. And Marius most certainly counts them as armed.

"Well, Matton. What have you to say?"

All attention swerves to the noble merchant.

"I had good reason to fear for my safety here. These men were to protect myself. And I can see it was wise to bring them!"

The Werewolf Lord spins to face Matton. "These stubborn fools caused this incident, fool! None of my wolves had made a move on you."

The sound of growling, from both the dog in the pit and the werewolves above is distracting.

Matton does not seem unduly threatened by Timothy. He stands up to him, "They would have and you know it! Maybe not in here out of deference to Regess and his rules, but you know they would find a chance."

"Then why BE here, idiot? You know we do not tolerate your kind well. Your presence here is a taunt... a provocation."

Matton is imperious, "I will not be intimidated or bullied out of my business. I came because I had much to discuss with Scarr Tabor." Matton waves to the man with the eye patch he had been sitting with... who is not there.

There is initially quite a bit of shock and general yelling. Commander Regess orders one of his soldier to check something. Matton loudly protests he knew nothing of any plan Tabor might be enacting. Timothy just growls about the abomination being destroyed.

Within seconds, the soldier returns and whispers something to Commander Regess, who with great show draws his sword. It is a wickedly efficient looking blade and those of you who can see it have no doubt the Commander knows how to use it... well.

"It seems two of my men are dead and the strong box with the proceeds of tonights events is missing. As is Scarr Tabor. I will know what happened. And I will have my money back. No one leaves here until they talk to me."

The solder levels the blade at Timothy. "I told your pack to revert. Why have they not obeyed me?"

The werewolves glare at the soldier. Edgar can see the Werewolf Lord do the math and ultimately decide it isn't worth the fight. He... barks... something and the wolves shift form, back into their human guises.

Regess nods, "Thank you. Pitmaster? Put the hounds away. There will be no more fight this evening. Matton. You are first!"

He pulls back the curtain partially to reveal something of an office. He motions for Matton to follow him.

((I hope you are all okay with the little handwaving I did in this post. Normally, I would have let you all roll your own spot checks, but I did not in this case for a few reasons. Scarr had supernatural help. Scarr has a skill level far above any of yours in this. And it makes the plot flow better! Razz ))

((Ioan, Adam, Hassad & Yemam all get a check box for Innocene. Of course, since Adam and Ioan already have three completed check boxes, it doesn't do them much good. Marius gets a check mark in his Loyalty box for his direct move to protect his employer.))

((Unless your next actions are martial (which is perfectly okay, btw), please post back in this thread. If your characters do want to keep combat going in one form or another, go ahead and post it in the Dog Fight thread.))

Hassid witnessed the dog called back by its “trainers” first gauging its opponent and Hassid could only assume feeling no malice, but resignment to violence that it decided that it would find a meal another day. When the dog was back in its pen and the gate closed Hassid straightened from his fighting stance and turned to his compatriots. Nodding to them to take to the ladder.

As he eventually sat down and waited his turn to be interviewed Hassid was troubled by the tale that Marius would tell him. Werewolves were not creatures that he would desire to tangle with. And if he did he would want his Silver Falchion in his hands when he did. And unless the guards are able to quell the violence this eve his blade may still taste blood.

It would speak of the comments that they had received this eve when searching for word on Matton and the Dog Fights. Those in the know seemed to number more than Hassid would like if they all tended toward the canine. Matton would be in greater danger than he thought if any large number of Werewolves inhabited this town. An itch began to crawl down Hassids spine. Orcs, Legates and Undead Hassid has had constant dealings with. But werewolves…that was something different. A curse far older than Izradore, yet just as terrible.

Ioan mutters a quick prayer of thanksgiving, climbs out of the pit, and escorts old man "Not-Dogfood-Tonight" with him.

"I'm Ioan. You?"

Charisma roll=0

As Yemam sees Hassis relax in his fighting stance, he sheaths his dagger into its proper spot in his boot. "Guess there is no blood spilled tonight...and I for one would rather it be like that."

After Ioan and the old man climb out of the pit and Yemam himself is out, Yemam scans the room, suspicious that the little boy in black is behind all of this.

Spot =26 (natural 20)

As he watches for anything suspicious, Yemam moves to Marius, "I'm sorry, we haven't exactly gotten to know each other beside pleasantries. Now, Locke and me offered you a drink, maybe we can still get something. And if not, a good story is always good."

Marius composes himself, though still shaken he puts his dagger away. Standing firmly next to Yemem he looks around, then with a smirk on his face he bursts out, “you guys are just lucky he stopped us, really lucky … yeah that’s right you heard me!”

Marius’ mind betrays him as his thoughts wonder of things past … the night his father changed and turned on him after those vile man-beasts made him one of their own, that dreadful night when he had to slay his own father. The thought itself made his blood boil, though he did his best to hide his hatred. Dad ... forgive me , if the situation were a bit more favorable I would gladly slaughter every one of them.

Hiding his contempt, calmly though with much intensity in his voice, Marius looks toward captain timothy, “no matter how liked or disliked you may be here it would be in your best interest, and that of your friends, that we don’t cross paths again. It truly was a pleasure to make your acquaintance.”

Marius glimpses at Yemam, “oh that’s ok my friend, I’m sure Locke will forgive the rudeness in both of us, circumstances and all. I’d love to have that drink with you, just no here. I think I’ve had my fill of this place and its regulars for today.

Marius makes one quick glance toward the commander, “sorry about all of this … heated moment and all. I’ll be here when you’re ready.”

Bluff=15 (includes -2 shaken)
Spot=11 (includes -2 shaken)
Intimidate=19 (includes -2 shaken)

The room is tense. Groups have split up by affiliation and are separate from each other. The soldiers have drawn weapons. The group is startled to find Totschlager is not with them. He is not in the room at all.

Voices can be heard behind the thick curtain but it is hard to make out anything specific. It is obvious that both Commander Regess and Matton have raised their voices.

The party has the chance to share the things they may have learned and the opportunity to discuss what tack they want to take when it is their turn to face Commander Regess.

[Ikoma]

Hassid sighs. “As to why we are here we need to tell the truth. We were hired for a one night job and needed the coin. As for Ioan’s actions” Hassid shook his head again and composed his thoughts. “We were invited to such events without prior knowledge as to what transpired here and he acted upon his instinct to protect those that would otherwise be unable to protect himself. It’s the truth so it will stand up to any magical scrutiny.” He looked at the others looking for support. “Matton in the end will do what Matton does and fend for himself. We on the other hand must stick together. Do not let them force you to lie, they would only be doing that to separate us from each other. If we stand together and tell the truth then by the Sovereign Host we may walk from this alive. And if we are truly lucky paid as well.”

It did not address the fact that this establishment would continue to go on as before, or that they had lost one of their own. But those were things that could be addressed at a later time. Now was a time for unity. And though Hassid had just joined this group, he knew that he would walk with them for long time to come.

Hearing Hassid's idea, Yemam nods. "Yes...that sounds right. I cannot imagine lying would benefit us at all. It would most likely result in us not getting any of our gear back and possibly fighting as well. Something I do not wish for right now."

Marius discontent for the vile things in the room still made his blood boil with hatred, he hated feeling this way – the mists truly do have a sick sense of humor bringing him to this place. He tried to shake the feeling, the evening wasn’t through and his friends might still be in need of him, “stop it! Focus on the now,” he said out loud.”

Marius walked toward Hassid, motioning for Yemam to follow, “my friend I’m glad you were unharmed, what can I say this is probably the finest welcome that the lands of the mists will grant you. I agree, we shouldn’t lie if they decide to frame us for anything, lying will only give them another weapon to use against us.”

Haven't completely shaken the fear of the wolf lords transformation before his eyes, Marius’ mind turned on him and the thought of things in the shadows was too much to handle, his eyes skipped from shadow to shadow. Marius knew that those standing close would surely see his face turn pale.

Ioan is an emotionally turbulent mess. The man whose trust he tried to win for the better part of a week has turned out to be the very worst kind of liar, and in Ioan's haste to do the right thing, he fears he has alienated himself from the men whose kinship he so desperately desires.

Charisma roll: 8

"I'm sorry, everyone. I... I acted as if I was your leader, when I'm barely worthy of being allowed to follow you around. I almost got all of us killed."

He thinks for a moment, and with rare clarity manages to NOT mumble his thoughts as he collects them. He speaks again...

"I could not have lived with myself if I had let the dogs take this poor man. But my life is the only one I am allowed to give. Not yours. I'm sorry."

Iaon's voice was sweet indeed and it managed to bring Marius’ mind from its fearful deapths, “there is no need to apologize my friend, at least to me. You acted the way your heart instructed, I for one can only commend you for your actions, as my heart finds not fault in what you did. And it would have been worse to watch you struggle with your own mind, something I am all to familar with.”

Marius looks towards Ioan and with a whisper adds, “as for your abilities as a leader, I in part thought you were, but then again I never was keen on the uptake. With everyone always watching it’s difficult to keep a sharp eye.”

Yemam wraps his arm around Ioan. "Now, now friend. You may have jumped into the pit to help the man first, but that is only because of your divine reflexes. I was in there side by side with you."

"As for a leader. I think you would make a fine leader if it came to it. Your heart is in the right place Ioan, and I will be there to defend whatever it wants...as a friend..."

Yemam smiles, nods to the sky, and continue, "...and so will Locke."

Hassid looked at Ioan and wondered what has happened in his life to cause him to project such thoughts onto his friends. “My life has been forfeit for a good long while now Ioan,” Hassid began “Giving it for you or any of the others here I would count as an honor.” Hassid stretched and sat back in his chair as a smirk crept across his face. “Of course that is not my first option.”

“Ioan, you are doing alright as a leader. Just follow your heart and what is right and you should do fine. Anything less and you would not be able to live with yourself, and that truly is something to mourn.”

Ioan shakes his head in mute amazement, and sighs deeply.

"Thank you, friends."

He then considers their current dilemma.

"My tongue will trip me up if I try to lie. When questioned, all I can tell the Captain is that Matton hired us as bodyguards, but I value innocent life more than coin."

Marius pulls up a chair next to Hassid and brings a few more for his friends. He sits and puts his feet up on the table, "good to know Ioan, good to know," he smiles.

Marius turns toward Hassid, "you mentioned you had some dealings as a body guard before, I would guess that might mean you have some in the interrogation department. Anything you we should expect? I still think they …” Marius looks around and whispers, “they will try to frame us for something.”

Hassid gently shook his head at Marius’s suggestion. “My previous employers used torture and magic for interrogation leading to eventual sacrifice to Izradore. I am not sure how much of that would apply in this instance.” Hassid has done many things he is not proud of, but joining with these new friends give him a chance for penance. “But generally silence and a hard stare can break the average man. Simply answer questions when asked and tell the truth. I do not believe that Regess intends us harm, he only wants to keep the peace at whatever cost and sacrifice that he has to. We are the hired help, Matton is the object of his ire.”

Yemam nods with Hassid's comment. "I too, do not think us to be in too much trouble...although I haven't had too much experience in this situation. So, let us just speak the truth and if anything Matton will be the one who will have the problem. I just hope he doesn't use his money and power to get back at us for this."

"In any case, I stand by my decision." Yemam looks toward Ioan with a reassuring smile.

((Nice posts! I'll be awarding check later this week for some of that.))

Time passes. Captain Timothy goes after Matton. Matton does not come back out. The gang of wolves sits, eying you all warrily. Many other individuals are present. Captain Timothy does not come back out.

You are next.

A soldier comes out and indicates you are next. He indicates for you all to come in.

The office behind the curtain is positively spartan. There is a large, solid functional desk. There are hard chairs in front... not enough for all of you to sit. Behind the desk, another solid wood chair supports the Commander. There is no art hanging from the walls. There is a flag standing in the corner - a black falcon, spread wings, on a blood red background.

Another soldier stands against the wall to your immediate right, a doorway leading somewhere else. You can only assume that this is how both Matton and Timothy left. To where, you are not sure.

The Commander makes no move to rise. He makes no move for you to sit. He looks over his large imposing desk. He has pulled his sword from it's sheath and it sits on that desk, well within reach of his right hand.

He looks each one of you directly in the eye. His gaze moves from eye to hand. Without question, he is sizing you up. What kind of threat could you potentially be?

With a deep sigh, he addresses the group in general.

"I know you were brought here by Matton Brouchard. You were to act as his protection. A sensible precaution. Matton - and his kind - are not well liked here. However, I do not think Timothy's wolves would have made any direct move against him... not in this place. But afterwords, perhaps?

What I dearly want to know is why you felt both the authority and the necessity of interfering with my business? And why I should not just hold you for the next fight card?"

Hassid trusting himself to remain calm and mind his temper answers the question. “Commander Regess we were invited to such events without prior knowledge as to what transpired here, Matton I believe did so for his own ends though I am not sure that he understood our parties nature. Our friend here acted upon his instinct to protect those that would otherwise be unable to protect himself and hopped into the pit. As a group we are as one and divided ourselves accordingly. A few remained up top unaware of Captain Timothy and his pack and went in to what we considered the more immediate threat, much to our ignorance. And that was what this was all about. Our ignorance of the nature of this establishment and the tenuous balance that rules here. If we had been properly instructed as to what to expect and what would transpire one of two things would have happened that would have saved us all from causing this unfortunate situation.”

“If we had known about what transpired here we would have either not come, or steeled our hearts away to refrain from such actions. As it were we were unprepared for what was to happen and in so do ask for your forgiveness for our actions as they will not happen again.” He hoped his words would allow for them to leave with their skins. Only the Commander’s response would let them know.

Ioan nods in assent, and keeps his clumsy mouth shut.

Yemam just stands next to Hassid. "Yes Commander, we really didn't mean anything by our actions. Its just what our personal values are in this instance. If you grant it to us, we will leave you alone. Again, we are sorry for any issues with...the fights. The ale was good."

Yemam smiles, hoping that the combination of Hassid's comments and his own will let the party leave this dreaded place with their gear and lives intact.

[Ikoma]

Marius attempted to open his mouth but his friend Hassid beat him to the words, which were better than any he could come up with himself. He tries to add something of value but him mind loses focus and does not find the words. He tries to follow Ioan’s lead, but Marius’ tongue is quicker then his common sense. Marius’ eyes catch the magnificent blade on the desk and the words stumble out, “now that’s a nice blade” An arrogant smile shapes Marius’ face, “It’s only equal is that of my bow …” Marius notices the looks around him, “oh right, sorry this evening has left my attention span much to be desired. What my friend is true, we acted upon our hearts without knowing what was to come.”

Marius puts his head down and whispers to Ioan, “next time, please, just poke me or something.”

((Marius... [ A ] nice boasting post in a tense situation is easily worth a check mark. [ B ] asking IOAN for diplomatic advice? Rolling Eyes ))

The Commander takes a deep breath and sits. He looks at you all.

"Well, no lasting harm was done. And I do agree that this whole sordid affair was likely Matton's fault. He should have been more specific in what he wanted and expected. He's been having a tough go lately finding willing business partners in Karina. What with his being ousted as Gabrielle's last love. He was rather a boor while he was in power. He's paying for it now. I expect that since you are all not from around here, he was desperate to find someone willing to watch his back.

Another point in your favor? You managed to best Timothy and one of his allies. While I will make money from him, I must say I find him a little too disorderly for my tastes. He is not happy with you however. I will give you a friendly warning. Be on the lookout. He will try to kill you. First, you spoiled his plan to bring you as the main event to tonight's festivities. Then you spoil what events were lined up. And cost him and his pack a shot at Matton. You've made a powerful enemy. Stay away from the river. He operates under some curse that makes it tough for him to spend too much time away from his boat. Use that to your advantage."

This last strikes you as the most potent understatement you have in some time.

"Having said all this, there is still the disruption of my establishment. This will impact my reputation. My first inclination is to hold you for the next event, but that is too far way. Of course, I could turn you over to the local guard. But... the Falkovian guard calling himself Totschlager has spoken well on your behalf. I suppose I should show some gratitude that a soldier of the state has been returned to us through your actions.

If you agree to leave the Falkovian quarter immediately and never bother us again, I shall return your weapons to you and let you leave with your lives. Any other option will involve your death. My soldiers will be instructed to strike you down on the spot if they see you in my section again.

Any questions?"

At the mention of Totslchlager's name, Ioan perks up, concerned no longer for himself, but for his friend.

Gotta talk to Totsy, make sure he's okay Ioan thinks to himself, managing not to mutter. I need a good excu-- HEY!

"Hey," he says. "I loaned Totsy a holy symbol this evening. If he's leavin' us, he needs to give it back to me. Personally. So I can pray with him, and... um... purify the... umm..."

Bluff=-1

Realizing that Ioan is again in a rather troublesome diplomatic position, Yemam tries to bail out his friend. He steps to Ioan's side and places a hand on his shoulder.

"Um....Commander, what my friend is trying to say is that, if Totslchlager will be staying here with you and your men, we would need to talk to him personally. As it turns out, he has something that belongs to us as a whole and we need to decide, with him, if that something is coming with us. I would hope you can see we mean no offense to your rulings."

"Also, after that short conversation with what now seems to be our former traveling companion, we will leave you and your fights to yourselves. I doubt you will here from us after this night."

Bluff = 17
Diplomacy = 22

Hassid made a salute to Commander Regess by touching his fingers to his forehead, chin and then between them. “I thank you Commander. It seems as if we are asking much of you. But if you would, you have made a correct ascertained I am not from this place. Would you be so kind as to establish for me the boundaries of your quarter so that I and my friends may be able to remain out from under your foot? I would be most distressed if I were to inadvertently break your most gracious deal with my own ignorance.” It was the best way to make sure that he abided by the offer. Ask directly. What the man had done was far more than any offer than he would have received from his previous masters.

Marius understood the situation all too well, but he couldn't take his eyes of that blade. Marius continued to think to himself ... I know I told him that my bow equaled his sword, but that is not true. My bow is better many times over. The arrogant smile on his face continued to grow.

Having only heard the last bits of Hassids' words Marius added, "yes commander, those border if you could. It would be most unfortunate if we blundered again due to the unknown." Marius realized that he may have come of a bit boorish but at this point he didn't care, the shadows were beginning to stir again whether for real or in his mind all he really heard was blah blah blah ... the sooner we get out of here the better he thought as his eyes began to fill with worry.

Marius’ thoughts managed to stay in the now as he thought the commanders warning, though in his jaded mind it seemed like an opportunity for revenge. See dad we might have a chance to get even after all he thought. I will have to find out more about this curse and how to use it against him, perhaps Matton is not completely useless … an enemy of my enemy is my friend …

Random roll = 15

Commander Regess listened to the comments.

"You're request to know the borders of my domain is a wise one. You should have no trouble knowing. The local guard is woefully inept at maintaining order. But, to ensure that there are no mistakes, this quarter lies North of Bog Street and south of the Maze. We are East of Warehouse Lane and West of the Maze Course.

As to conversing with your former traveling companion... I may be able to work something out. If you would be willing to wait, I will see if he wishes to speak with you."

With that, he indicates for a soldier to come forward.

"See that these men receive their armaments again. Now that we have reached an agreement, I am sure such upstanding men can be trusted. And see to they are cared for."

You are lead to a smallish (but not uncomfortably so) room. There are not enough chairs for all of you but there are crates that can double as seats. Your weapons are brought. And so is liquor. Nothing fancy... but something to keep you warm. And then you wait... and wait... and ?

After securing his weapon Marius sits on a crate leaving the more comfortable chairs for his friends. He looks around the room for all possible entrances and exits. He looks at the liquor and smiles, thinking to himself yeah right like I'm gonna drink that .

After some waiting Marius looks to his companions and nervously says, "I don't like this, even armed, something is not right here. I know I’m only thinking out loud but remember where we are … Falkovnia … Lands of the Mist … remember?"

With each passing moment Marius grows more and more on edge and repeatedly mumbles to himself, “this isn’t right.” Hoping for something to ease his nerves, or trully looking for supernatural help, being so nervous he can't really decide Marius turns to Yemam, “your friend Locke see anything with his unnatural perception?"

Spot = 14

Ioan relaxes. He's not going to have any more to drink tonight (and certainly nothing here), but he's confident that the captain would not have returned weapons to the party if foul play was planned. He has seen what some of his friends can accomplish with their chosen weapons... even Timothy and his pack of wolves would be hard-pressed against this group.

"We're gonna be okay" he says.

He closes his eyes and meditates.

Hassid walks into the room and gathers his blade. Looking down the mirror surface of the blade. Then in the tight quarters Hassid flows through a simple form.

The form was simple. There was no footwork involved and thus was the complexity. But the blade slid up and down his body as not to hit any of his companions. It was not what he wanted to do, he wanted room to move. To flow, to match the waves of the water. He had not yet mastered the shurapoli but he was getting close, he could feel it. But as of yet the motions just do not come, and the form is all he has. The balance was right and the feel was dead on. It was his blade. He followed the form with folding the fan…’sheathing the blade.’ Then he walked over to a corner and leaned slightly against the wall and began the great wait for things to be over.

Hassid trusted the Commander to abide his word. But at times people did things that were contrary to what they said. Hassid had to be prepared in case it was otherwise and hope he was wrong.

Yemam takes his weapons from the guards and checks to make sure everything is as it should be. He fastens his gear and takes a seat. Yemam sees the drink. "None for me. I think I've had enough of everything tonight. No offense of course."

Listening to Marius, Yemam gains a confused look on his face. "Supernatural perception. I assure you, friend. Locke is as human as you and I. I mean, he's taught me everything I know and if it weren't for him I'd most likely be dead right now. I think you may want to lay off the drink tonight."

Adam recovers his sword and bow. He tightens the straps to his armor and makes himself ready for battle. Something isn't right. An efficient soldier wouldn't make the group wait this long. A politician yes, a soldier no. If a soldier wanted to annoy or irritate you they would not return your weapons, take your armor or just kill you. The commander was definately a soldier.

Turning to the group Adam begins to speak.

"Something is wrong. Someone should have returned by now. I wait another five minutes and I then go to search for our companion. I'm not sure he is separated from us voluntarily and our good cleric needs his symbol."

Adam moves toward the door and attempt to open and determine if guards still stand outside.

Marius watches Hassid perform the movements of the battle form, but does not disturb him. Marius watches and tries to remember where he might have seen something like that, alas nothing comes to mind. When Hassid finishes Marius approaches, “expertly done … though I know I have seem something similar, I just can’t remember where? No matter I’m sure it will come to me sometime,” Marius smiles and bows to show respect. “I may be wrong, but you seem to have it done perfect.” Marius didn’t pry, if his friend wanted to comment he would.

Hearing Yemam’s response Marius thinks to himself, by the Gods, if there are any left in this forsaken place, is he joking? Attempting to hide the confusion on his face Marius answers, “right. Of course my friend how careless of me. It’s this place, it’s playing tricks on my senses.”

Hearing Adam speak Marius perks up, “thank you. At least I’m not the only one who realizes the folly of the situation.” Marius moves closer to Adam, hoping that at least doing something rather than sitting around would ease his nerves, “a precaution my new friend. Ready when you are?”

Int =7
bluff = 26

The door opens easily to Adam's touch. It is not locked. There are two soldiers in the next room but neither is standing at attention. Both do look up from their cards when the door swings open. They are alert and aware just not tense.

As Adam watches, the far door to the next room opens. The Commander enters, followed by Totschlager. Regess nods at his two soldiers who have snapped to attention and thrown their arms forward in a salute of some sort.

((I've contacted Totschlager's player and he should be posting soon. Life has caught up with him and he's asked to be written out. Some of these developments are part of that. But I wanted to give him the chance to say goodbye on his own.))

Yemam continues to sit on the crate that has become his chair. "Friends, are we going to leave? I am wanting to talk to Totschlager as much as anyone else, but given our situation of being surrounded by more guards then we can possibly know, I think we should sit tight for a while. I mean they gave us back our things."

Realizing everyone is tense and worried, Yemam continues. "But...if after ten more minutes we do not hear anything from Totschlager or the Commander, then I think we should at least ask those guards. Now...until we hear something, what are our plans after this?"

[Ikoma]

Hassid looks at the soldier. If this had been the land that he had come from Hassid would have his blade drawn and willing to put down his friend instead of watching him fall under the sway of Izradore. But it was not. These men were not subject to his Dark God. Though that was not to say that he was not. But it was not HIS Dark God. It made a difference, though he didn’t know how. It was something to do with him not feeling the pull of the land. He had accepted it now. And though Totschlager was not with him for long, Hassid felt the loss of a warrior. And in this land Hassid could feel in his bones that there was much to come. But then it would also offer him time to atone for his actions, even unto death.

As the door opens Hassid straightens from the wall. And begins to make his way to the door.

Marius continued to think to himself, something isn't right. The commanders previous words, "returning one of our own," and complete lack of expression from Totschlager was enough to confirm his fears.

He turned to Ioan, "let's get that holly symbol, get our friend, and take our leave. Commander ..." Marius bowed his head never taking his eyes of this opponent.

Ioan looks at Totschlager, meeting his gaze if possible.

"Feeling better?"

((I'm not doing a good job of channeling Totschlager, so I am gonna go with a more story version. Sorry. BTW, last time I did a re-recruitment thread, I got one more than I had intended - which I am now greteful fore! It's going to work out perfectly. We'll have a party of six (four of whom are posting perfect, two of which are a little spotty.) ))

Totschlager addresses the group. It is true that his voice his stilted, thick with emotion. And this does prove hard for him to do. But he feels like the best thing for him to do, in his attempt to find out who he was prior to his amnesia, is to return to what is quite obviously his homeland. Commander Regess knows things about Totschlager simply by the shape, size and location of the hawk tattoo. Luckily, the Commander is convinced of Totschlager memory loss. And he will send a written recommendation that this be taken into account when the military inquiry is held into Totschlager's apparent desertion.

He's grateful to you all. He wishes you nothing but the best. And maybe someday, if the fate's decree, you will meet again.

And with that, you have the opportunity to say your goodbyes.

((Then, I need a post-script telling me what you want to follow up on next. Several hints/threads have been dropped. They are all valid things worthy of attention. I just need to know what way your characters want to go.))

Hassid nodded to Tots and to his story. He had not known a home for so long. Hassid could not guess how a man could live that way. Hassid had left under his own accord. He left and will never be able to return. To return would be to die. But Tots had come home, and here he should stay to learn who he was, and who with care he may become.

Marius bows deeply to Tootschalger. Having known him for a mere day Marius was still not sure of the man that he was though held him in high regards based merely the great caring from Ioan toward his friend, and that was enough for him. “May you find answers to your past here my friend. The mists brought me here from my home, and you have finally come home to yours. It was an honor to stand by your side today, and it is a great shame that we will not be able to fight side by side. I looked forward to seeing which one of us was the better … though somehow I suspect I already know the answer – me of course,” Marius spoke with a sly grin on his face. “Take care.”

Marius’ thoughts dwelled on Drakon and home. He truly hoped Tots would find a way to remember who he was. He looked towards Ioan who had lost a great friend today and whispered, “if you need anything, I am here and will stand by your side or lend a shoulder if you need it.” Marius’ thoughts ran rampart and dwelled on his father, I wish you were here now dad you always knew what to say in situations like this.

"Well... I hope my holy symbol has helped, friend.

Can I ask for it back?"

Yemam smiles at Marius' comment and then takes his moment to speak to Totschalger. "Well friend, I wish you the best. Although we've only known each other for a relative short amount of time, I feel as if we've become good friends. If there is any a time that you need my help, I'll be there...and so will Locke."

Totschlager hears each of you and seems moved. Commander Regess stands respectfully near by. When he comes to Ioan, Totschlager seems most visibly moved.

"The holy symbol has been a great help. And I will gladly return it. If you ever find yourself in Falkovia, please look me up. You will always be welcome in my home, wherever it may be. That applies to you all. I wish you luck on your journey."

* * *

The party winds it's way through a quiet and dark town. The sounds of the carnivale grow louder as they return to the commercial districts. But their mood is not light. It is late. And the loss of their traveling companion weighs heavily. They return to the suite supplied by Marius but sleep does not come quickly. However, it does come.

The group arises later than they normally would. But the city arises even slower. It is quiet outside and the tavern below is nearly empty. It does show the signs of lasts night's revelry. While taking advantage of the kitchen, they discuss their plans for the day.

When the group arises they find Ioan asleep, but mostly dressed (if unarmored). It is apparent that he's been awake, but has gone back to sleep.

He stirs a few minutes later...

"Mornin' everybody. I hope I didn't wake you when I prayed earlier. I tried to be quiet. I'd have waited, but I really need to do it at the same time every day."

Charisma Roll=13.

"I'm feeling a LOT better today. And prayer was good. Shook off a lot o' yesterday's mood."

He smiles, and hideous though the grin may be on Ioan's mug, you can tell he's pleased.

"The Morninglord is gracious. I've been blessed with a couple of new tricks."

With a little more space in his room Hassid flows through several forms. They are not perfect, he has yet to "get" it. Though they are impressive, to one skilled in the arts they are flawed. Hassid works until he is drenched in sweat. The silver of the sword contrasts against his Desert Darkened skin and bleached in designs. When he eventually lays the sword down he takes back his shirt and holds it there before heading to the bath.

There he takes a long steam as he washes his garments in the bathwater taking off both a layer of sweat and dirt. When he was done he tipped the attendant a silver piece and then had dinner. He dined in a more leisurely outfit of loose pants and a shirt that wrapped around. Then retired for the night.

-

The rest of the Party find him entering the Inn again in the morning after tending to his horse. The fine animal had been taken care of well and for that he was grateful. It would have been sad to kill the lad after he awoke in such a good mood.

He gestured to the others by touching his fingers to his forehead, then chin then out between them as he approached and took a seat before ordering a modest breakfast of whatever meat passed for breakfast meat, some cheese and porridge.

Even after the many events and the loss of a friend Adam is able to get a good nights sleep and prays to the Lord. He rises early, puts on his armor and walks the streets of the town. He knows that many won't have made it home this evening or were perhaps assulted during the evening and need help.

He provides what help he can to his fellow brethern. He will bind wounds, provide bread for the poor, help people get to their homes or inns. During this process he will speak words of kindness, encouragement and love. He lets them know that the Lord loves them and he can help them find joy in their life.

He then returns to the inn later in the morning to meet with the remainder of the group. He reminds them that he would like to visit those who are about to be hung. He needs to understand their sins and if help is needed.

Yemam wakes after a rather good night sleep. He looks to the sky, "You know Locke, maybe it was all a dream and Totschlager will be downstairs waiting for us...yeah....you're probably right, but I just wanted to hope."

With that he sees Hassid doing his form and decides to quickly wash himself up before Hassid finishes so that he can have to bathroom. A short bath later, Yemam is in the room waiting, going through yesterday's events, and just thinking how life always takes from him the ones he gets too close with.

But with that Ioan speaks and smiles and Yemam darker thoughts leave him as he goes to get some food.

"Well friends, I agree with Adam. Let us check with these condemned men and see if innocence is inside any of them."

"Yeah, of all the stuff we could be doing, visiting the condemned is the only one with a real time limit."

Marius attempts to get some sleep but his bed does not allow it. Finally he removes the covers and pillows from his bed and arranges them on the floor allowing him to get some well-deserved sleep in a comfortable bed. He sleeps through the rest of the night without so much as moving.

Upon wakening he removes his bow, made from thick but flexible wood covered in intricate runes, from the quiver and spends some time cleaning and tightening the string, “I missed you my trusted friend. I’m sorry we didn’t get a chance to show your might, but don’t worry Captain Timothy and his pack are out there, you will get your chance,” he whispers to himself.

Finally he waits for his turn at a relaxing bath and heads downstairs for a good breakfast. Marius pulls up a chair next to Hassid and helps himself to some meat, cheese and fresh fruit. Attempting to be as polite as he can mange he turns to Hassid and his friends and with a half-full mouth speaks, “well my friends, last night was very exciting, where can I accompany you today? Oh and not that I want to ruin the morning, but there is the matter of Captain Timothy who is out there most likely looking for us.”

[Ikoma]

"Mmm, yeah. HIM."

Ioan growls inwardly, remembering how hard he worked to win the trust of a man who only wanted to feed him to the dogs.

"The captain of the guard said that Timothy has to stay close to his boat. Maybe it's a curse. I wonder what would happen if his boat were to burn to the waterline."

Ioan shakes off the dour mood.

"Timothy can wait. I say we see the condemned first."

Hassid shook his head to the words of burning the boat. "It is his curse, who are we to encroach upon it. Besides burning the boat might free him from his attachment to the river. That I would rather not have."

Having set on a course of action, the group heads off to visit the citadel. It's easy to find.

A dilapidated castle broods on a small hill overlooking Karina. The town walls ride up the hill to kiss the perimeter of the citadel, but the castle stands apart from the town's fortification, a self-contained stronghold guarding the northern-eastern approach to Karina. Although the castle's outer walls and towers appear solid, some of the inner buildings are in serious disrepair.

Arriving at the castle, you see soldiers patrolling both the gate between the city walls and the castle walls and the walls and towers. Both sets are lax - particularly in comparison with the practiced and polished efficiency you saw in the Falkovian soldiers.

Coming to the gate, one of the solders steps forward and addresses the party, "What is the purpose of your visit?"

Marius flashes a wicked smile at the thought of Timothy’s boat burning to the waterline and fails to contain his snigger, “ha.”

Hearing his friend Hassid make a valid point Marius composes himself, “thank you for pointing that out my friend. Perhaps after tending to those in need we can gather some info about Timothy’s supposed curse. I would like any advantage before I remove his head from the rest of his body.” “His kind will pay for the ills they have imposed on my family,” Marius whispers to himself.

Yemam looks at the solder who speaks to the group. "We are just here to see the condemned. We wish to help them find comfort in their last moments of life. I'm sure it shouldn't be a problem."

Diplomacy = 21

The soldier shrugs, "No skin off my nose."

But he does not move out of the way. Instead, he stands there, holding his right hand out in front of him as if waiting for someone to drop something, say the size of a few coins, into it.

Ioan steps forward, drops the price of a day's pay in the soldier's hand, and says "It's a fine nose. C'mon, everybody."

Diplomacy=11
Knowledge Local (Barovia)=22 (OOC: Guessing at a day's pay for the soldier, based on my Barovian experience... just how much money did I give him, anyway?)

Adam also drops the same amount of money into the guard's hand. He continues to hold a similar amount of money in his hand well within the view of the guard and asks the following with a question.

What are the prisoner's names and what are their crimes?

If the guard is forthcoming with good answers Adam will pay him the remaining coins.

Diplomacy (1d20+6=21)

Hassid went in with the others. Thoughts haunting him after the evening and he was silent. As well he was constantly keeping his eyes open for Timothies men.

Yemam stays quiet now and lets the two clerics do the talking. However, he keeps his eyes and ears open...for the child in black and for Timothy's men.

Listen = 15
Spot = 8

Marius followed the group staying close to his friend Hassid. Entering the prison did nothing good for his anxiety. Thoughts of Drakon and spies in the shadows filled his head. His eyes open, tense, jumping from shadow to shadow. At least it's daylight he thought to himself. Enjoy it while it lasts. Attempting to calm himself, he looked up to the sky took the sun in and took a deep breath before proceeding further.

Marius looked toward Yemam, "friend, my memory fails me perhaps Locke remembers. Did Matton ever pay us for the rather unpleasant evening? Your friend watched my back I would like to be able to buy him a drink at some point." Truthfully Marius needed an excuse to see the supposed Lord. He needed info about Timothy's curse and who better than Matton.

Spot =18
Bluff =21

Yemam shakes his head at Marius' comment. "No...Matton did not of pay us for the great service we provided from him. I still wonder if he wants us to see if his love wants him back or not. We will undoubtable see in the close future what Matton's feelings are towards us anyway."

Adam Godson wrote:
"What are the prisoner's names and what are their crimes?"

The guard closes his fist without taking the extra gold. A shocked look on his face.

"All of them? I can't remember what got them all in here!"

He steps aside to let them through, "Marriak, how many do we have in here now anyway?"

Another soldier, lying on his back with his eyes closed, responds, "Last count was 31 I think. Check with Bilkus in records to be sure."

The first guard turns as you all pass. With a wave of his hand, he seems to point to the front doors of the smallish castle.

Ioan strides in the direction indicated, muttering...

"I can believe three, or maybe five, but thirty-one? Ludicrous. Either crime is a huge problem here, cutthroats and scofflaws running rampant, or somebody is handing out death penalties like carnival prizes."

His mumbled soliloquy continues in this vein, with a bit of sidewards exploration on the subject of carnival games in general. He is paying just enough attention to not bump into his companions, or a wall.

Spot=8

He is, however listening...
Listen=19

Ioan's mumbling jogs his memory... he turns and hollers back at the gate.

"Hang on... last night the guard said there were SEVEN scheduled for the gallows. Is that up to thirty-one today, or are the rest of 'em not set to swing?"

Diplomacy=8.

[Ikoma]

Adam agrees with Ioan assertion. He asks the guard about the 7 people that would hang at the end of the carnival. Those are the people he is most interested in visiting.

The guard shouts back, "Yup, seven die in the morning! The rest get to finish their sentences!"

Ioan is at once relieved and disturbed. "Oh, good. They're excited to be killing SEVEN people instead of THIRTY-ONE."

He turns again and walks further into the castle, or prison, or whatever this place really is.

Marius follows Ioan and Adam keeping a watchful eye. He turns to Ioan, “could be worse they could execute all of them in one day!” If here were paying attention he'd notice the looks, but focus on the shadows he’s been observing prevent him from seeing anything beyond his own smirk.

Spot = 1 (not natural)

Marius tries to listen but only hears the sound his boots are making.
Listen = 5

Hassid continued to look around and watch the keep. He had seen worse conditions for prisoners...but that did not mean that it was any better. Hassid just watched and remaind aware of his surroundings. Though his mind tended toward wondering at how he had not dissapeared with the sun rose.

Spot = 7, Listen = 10

Yemam follows the group, silently for once, just thinking to himself.

::These people are finding enjoyment in the hangings of others. I hope that these "criminals" at least killed another or something, not just stood in the path of a stuck-up noble::

The entire keep is a study of lack discipline. The soldiers present are loud and boisterous. The place is in a curious mixture of repair and disrepair. One whole wing of the castle, the north, is completely ravaged by fire. Holes are visible in the walls and much of the charred interior is rain soaked and exposed to the elements. Moss and plants grow amidst the wreckage.

However, the south wing of the castle, including the main entrance, are in good solid repair. The main front door is open, allowing the fresh crisp fall air into the hallway. The group passes into the keep and looks around.

The main entrance is large and for the most part empty. What furniture there is, mostly a few chairs and a few tapestries on the walls, is clean, solid and unadorned. A closed - and locked door - leads up to the north... destroyed... wing. An open door leads to the south wing. A closed but unlocked door leads straight through to the main keep. A set of stairs rise in a helix in the northeast corner of the room to a landing. Doors from that landing lead both into the north and south wings, as well as further into the keep.

With a quick glance through the open door reveals that the south wing is most likely a barracks. The long hallway resembles nothing so much as a university dormitory. Nothing is likely to be found of worth in the north wind, which leaves the keep proper. The group heads toward to the door on the main floor leading on. It swings open easily. Behind it is a small room filled mostly with a large desk. There is little room to move around it. Several doors lead out of the small room. You can smell from here that a kitchen of some sort must lie further in. Behind the desk sits a lone soldier. He sword leans up in the corner several feet away from him. He sits next to a stack of papers and seems to be unenthusiastically engaged in handling said paper.

When asked, he informs you he is not Bilkus, and then turns and bellows, "Bilkus! Get in here!"

"WHY?"

"Damnit, you have visitors!"

"What?" A smallish man appears in one of the doorways. He's not old. But he is certainly not young anymore. His hair is worn in a style fashionable ten years ago. He weapon and armor is well cared for, although it does not seem well used.

"Is this about that order of beef? 'Cause you are way past schedule on delivery of that and I will not pay until you get caught back up. Carnivale be damned..."

The edges of a smile touch Hassids face as he watches the interactions of the malitia. No matter where you go they are the same. Puffed up and spoiled in thier own self worth. One could tell time by thier singleminded selfishness.

Good times.

((Assuming the question...))

Bilkus scratches his head, "The condemed, huh? Why are you interested? You think you got family in that group? Well, no matter. It's isn't a secret. Come on into my office and let me dig that information up. I've got to get the formal execution documents written up today anyway or Captain Van Deusen will be all over me."

With that, he turns and returns to the room he came from. As the group follows him, they enter a two story room. At one point, it was obviously a library. Many of the upper shelves are still covered with books, though dust is thick on their spines, showing no one has bothered them for years... perhaps decades.

The floor is occupied with a smallish desk against the near set of shelves. Books have been removed for the shelves to make space of ink and quill, scrolls and piles of parchment. A thick table sits against the far wall, covered with large thick tomes. The books on the top are labeled with the last few years.

Bilkus moves to the shelf and starts sorting through the stacks. It's pretty clear that despite the apparent chaos, Bilkus knows his filing system.

"Anyone in particular you're looking for? Or a crime you are trying to find the perpetrator for?"

Ioan gathers some words into his head, rolls them around on his tongue, and cautiously sets them loose...

Diplomacy=20

"I am a man of God, and I've come to speak with the condemned to offer them solace, confession, and perhaps redemption."

Internally, Yemam is taken aback by the perfect words of Ioan. He knows that he can add nothing to the conversation and only waits to see what his friends new found confidence will get him.

Hassid simply nods in ascent with the words of Ioan. They were well put and set his friend higher in his estimation.

Marius nerves force him to look to the shadows and all possible exits. Hearing his friends words he simply smiles. Well put he thinks to himself.

Bilkus nods, "Ah, yes, we get that every once in a while. Well, you're certainly welcome to chat with them."

With that, he pulls a sheaf of parchment, bound in a leather folder. He flips it open and quickly shuffles through a variety of forms.

"Here we are. As I'm sure someone has probably told you, we have seven executions scheduled. Carnivale is the annual time set for executions so a few of these boys have been waiting with us for almost a complete year to serve out their final sentence. Their names are Maccus Harrson, Alberik Harrson, Starkaad Banning, Gaspard Leonid, Saalim the Fourth, Lodinn Fletcher, and Broiggan Oakes."

He shuffles the papers and finds another set, all stamped with an officially looking seal.

"Maccus and Alberik were highwaymen, responsible for at least seventeen deaths and sacking six caravans. Gaspard was a paid assassin, confessing to having a contract here in Katrina. If I remember correctly, someone had tipped the nobleman who was the target and we caught Gaspard breaking into his home, poison blade ready for the job. Starkaad defiled three girls before he was caught. He's in the worst shape, by the way, just to prepare you. He was only caught three days ago and still bears many bruises from being brought into custody. Saalim stole four horses. Lodinn was fronting a ring of kidnappers that were shunting travelers into a slave ring headed for Falkovia... we think. They prey on small groups and are still in operation. Lodinn has so far refused to give up any co-conspirators. And finally, there is Broiggin who has apprehended while behaving unnaturally with a shepherd's flock."

Motioning with his free hand, to wait, Bilkus steps away. You can hear him in the next room calling for soldiers to come escort you to the prison cells... death row.

Hearing the words of the guard Marius looks toward the group, "let me get this straight. We're here to console those people?" he says mockingly. “Ok, on with the show.”

“A defilers, an assassin, a horse thief … I think our time could be better spend elsewhere” he murmurs ever so quietly to himself.

[Ikoma]

Ioan shakes his head muttering quietly... "whose idea was this? Oh, never mind... a poor soul is a soul in need regardless."

He then puts two and two together, and arrives at something approximating four.

"Falkovian kidnapping and slave trade?" he asks Yemam, Adam, and Edgar. "Isn't that what very nearly happened to us, that night after Captain Needs-a-shave fetched us off the island?"

He looks at Marius and Hassid. "You weren't there, but you met Timothy during last night's... outing."

"I think we should start with this Lodinn fellow."

Hassid finds peace in his heart as the names and lists are read. Hassid has not lived a pure life, but for some, death is the final stage of redemption. Hassid would find this one day. But until then he would work for a good end before it occoured.

"Yes...that seems to be a good train of thought Ioan." Yemam smiles. "And I see that our bit of support yesterday has brought out the best of you. You see, you had the makings of a leader all along friend."

Another nameless soldier comes to escort you to meet the condemned. He leads you back through more offices before heading back out into the clear morning. Skirting the burnt wing of the castle, he shows you to a large iron door set into the thick, tall stone of the citadel's stone walls. Two guards stand watching. The Karina town guard greet each other warmly, with your escort informing them you are to be allowed to speak to those who die within 24 hours.

A set of two keys, in two locks, open the door. It swings outward with a creak. But it is well oiled and opens under the strength of a single man, albeit with effort. Inside appears pitch dark. Your escort goes in first.

Inside, it take a moment for your eyes to adjust. It is not lightless. It turns out that this section of the wall, perhaps all the wall now that you think of it, it hollow. Along the outer side, this narrow arrow slits allow air in. A set of cells has been constructed along the inside wall. As you blink rapidly to adjust to the darkness, you see five cells to your right and five cells to your left. At the end of each hallway, a stone wall rises and you recognize these as the watchtowers that mark the outer wall. Another thick iron door is set and locked at each end, although you do not see guards.

The soldier bangs on the iron bars of the cells, "Rise and shine. You've got visitors. Men of god come to pray for your souls."

Men stir in most cells. Without another look or thought, the soldier moves to a single chair against the outer wall, facing the door you just came through. "Just let me know when you're done." He sets back and leans against the wall.

Marius thinks to himself, one would be hard pressed to get anyone out through these security measures. He shakes the thought out of his head and takes a moment to take in the impressive structure. "See this is why I prefer the outdoors" he mutters to himself. His eyes scan the surroundings for all possible exits and entrances, as well as, other surprises that might await.

Spot = 19 (natural 20)

As Hassid walked the cells he stopped at one of the cells once he figures out who the man is and spits on Saalim. Hassid was glad that the horse thief was destined to hang.

"Nice." Ioan mumbles, watching Hassid. He looks for Lodinn, and then elbows Yemam. "Somebody glib oughtta talk to this one."

Yemam nods to Ioan. "I'll see what I can do."

He walks up to the cell, just out of arms reach. "Good sir.....may I have a moment. I have a question of the reason you are in here. Would you object to talking about the subject?"

Diplomacy = 21

All the men are unkempt. Long hair, beards of varying lengths. The newcomer is obvious. Bruises and small cuts still ooze. He lies in the corner. Saalim is the darkest of all the men, but in other respects of appearance, he looks just like the others.

Upon finding Lodinn, Yemam addresses the prisoner.

"You can have as many moments as you want. I ain't goin' nowhere... well, not 'til the sun rises tomorrow. Whaddaya want?"

Lodinn is a mature man, somewhere past his prime but still not gray and wizened yet. His long greasy hair is dark, almost black, with a few wispy hints of white in it. His beard is bushy, the kind grown bot by choice but by simple laziness. His cheeks are sunken and his eyes are dim and shifty. His hands are dirty, crusted with grime and dirt. He looks dangerous.

Of course, no weapon or armor are upon him. The clothes on his back are simple cotton. At one point, they were likely clean, judging by the clothing on the newest prisoner. But Lodinn's are now dingy and gray, tattered at the hems. The other accoutrements of his cell are a simple three legged stool, a pile of straw, and a bucket.

Yemam straightens himself after being taken aback by how quickly the criminal is willing to answer his questions, he continues, "Well then...let us not waste your last moments then. In your activity did you ever come across a fellow by the name of Timothy?"

Diplomacy = 23

With a slight smile, Lodinn answers, "Why should I answer? What's in it for me?"

Marius looks at the group, "that's a really good question?" I don't really have anything to offer. Now what? he thinks to himself, he's eyes searching for an answer within the group.

Hassid looked at the man and said “Well your dead anyway.” his voice was ice, and his thoughts of a man who stole horses. But his anger directed at thier intended prisoner.

ooc: intimidate = 28 Nat 20

Yemam smiles at Lodinn's response. "I figured it couldn't be that easy. Well...I'm not sure what is in it for you. I figure that the simple fact that you'd be helping us isn't good enough and you seem content in your sentence so the easing of your spirit from our men of the cloth is most likely out of the question. Very well...baring completely illegal things...what do you want for the information?"

Diplomacy = 20

Ioan does his best to keep quiet, and not to spoil whatever negotiating goes on.

[Ikoma]

Marius hesitated after Hassid made his comment but realized its meaning. Being from Drakon crime wasn’t the biggest problem with someone always watching from the shadows. He tried not to look but the impulse was to strong and his eyes glanced to the shadows.

He thought for a moment and added, “If nothing else, maybe you just want to clear your conscience. Perhaps that in it self will allow the dark forces to ease you passing. If not well I’m sure you know how the story ends!” Marius spoke with a bitter voice.

Intimidate = 20

The group realizing they have little to offer the condemned man, resort to intimidation. But as scary as the group can be, they pale next to the very real prospect of having his neck stretched come dawn.

"I'll tell you what I want, to see two more sunsets. You get me that, I'll tell you anything you want to hear. What do you want me to say about this... Timothy? You get me out of here, I'll hand him to you on a golden platter."

Marius thinks about the words spoken. He looks toward the group, "somehow I think we are need of Edgars excelent way with words. Or perhaps we can ask our old friend Tots and his captain to see if he can come up with anything, though I'm not sure how warm of a reception we will get there. But two extra sunset's aren't that much to ask for, especially if we can stop the slave trade and hand Timothy over on a platter."

In truth Marius just wanted to get outside. The lack of exists and too many eyes and shadows was starting to get to him.

Ioan mutters... "If this guy can hand us Timothy, maybe the magistrate can give him an extra day."

He then has a horrible idea. It's the worst idea he has ever had. He mumbles to the party.

"If there were a... um... a miracle, and the condemned man survived his hanging, would he get a pardon? Anybody know the answer to that?"

He shakes his head...

"I don't know if it's even possible. Horrible, horrible idea. Forget I said anything."

Yemam whispers to the group, "I agree....if this guy can get us Timothy then an extra day or two might not be too bad. I say we talk to the guy in charge and see what we can do."

Sense Motive = 5

(Yemam wants to see if Lodinn is lying about Timothy and obvious he is not.)

If the group asks, the man in charge of the Citadel is Captain Johannes Van Deusen. And he's not yet awake.

Adam watches the group talk with each of the criminals. He understands their desire to find the whereabouts of Timothy. However, he has a different purpose here. As the group converses he moves from cell to cell conversing with the condemned men.

He asks them if they have any last requests. The outrageous requests he ignores and pushes the men for simple things such as messages to loved ones, a final meal, final preparations or just honest conversation. He is here to represent the Lord to his children in a possilbe moment of catharsis before they die.

He visits each cage. He will spend more time with those that are respectful, but he visits each and every person.

At the request Hassid shrugged and leaned against an empty wall with a *your loss* look on his face. This was not really his realm of expertise. For Hassid his experience with comforting the dying was to insure that their death was swift and painless. But he did admire the others for trying. All except for that Horse Thief. He deserved to die slow…he hoped that his neck would not break when the bottom falls out from underneath him.

Hassid tried to clear his head, he shouldn’t be thinking these thoughts. He was a different man, he was no longer under the thumb of a Legate. But that Cursed Horse Thief!!!

Hassid released his hand from the pommel of his Cedeku. It would not serve to draw a blade in this place.

He took a deep breath and looked away. Toward the door, toward the guard. Toward anything that was not the prisoners. He could not let his thoughts stray in that direction. He was no longer that man.

Yemam turns to Lodinn with the most serious face he could possible come up with.

"Very well Lodinn...we will talk to Captain Johannes Van Deusen and see what we can do. I very much doubt your release, but an additional two days or maybe a year might occur. However, I must have your word, whatever that is worth, that you actually know something of captain Timothy."

Before Lodinn can answer, Yemam glances to the ceiling. and continues, "Yes...and if you don't my friend will be make sure the afterlife is not pleasant for you."

"So...do we have a deal?"

Diplomacy = 26
Bluff = 10 (natural one) [guess it good that I was just bluffing over Locke Smile]

Marius let those with the proper words continue their art. He felt out of place here and where he was from the ray of the Lord did not shine to well. Marius sighed as his thoughts drifted toward home.

Adam takes his moment with each condemned man. Some welcome him and the solace he offers. Others refuse to talk to him, strong in their defiance of conventional morality until the bitter end. But regardless of the prisoner's response, Adam feels a warm feeling in his heart (check mark for Charity).

Meanwhile, Yemam makes his offer to Lodinn. Looking him dead in the eye, Lodinn states, "Oh, I know Timothy. He's a bad, bad man." (Give me a Sense Motive check - anyone who's present can make the check.)

"You get me off the gallows tomorrow morning and I give you Timothy."

Marius listens to words attempting to gauge anything false.

Sense Motive = 12

Sense Motive=24

Ioan feels, for one brief moment, like he looking directly into Lodinn's soul.

Hassid ignored most of the words coming from the others, self absorbed as he was in stemming the evil in his soul.

Sense Motive 3

Sense Motive = 17

Yemam stands there...completely letting Lodinn's words flow into him so he can judge how true they are.

[Ikoma]

Ioan turns to Lodinn and scowls. On his face it is like dark comedy, where you desperately hope you're getting the joke.

Charisma check=16 (OOC: Invisible castle was down, so I threw a die)

"S'okay to be afraid of death. S'okay to beg for your life. Offering up some'un else in your place, when you dunno scat 'bout 'em? That's wrong."

His face softens.

"Lying to us is the least of your crimes, and I forgive you for it, so you're carrying that much less into the next world."

Yemam glares at Lodinn. "You lie huh...I fell for your silvery tongue but thankfully my friend did not. You shall hang in the gallows tomorrow unless you speak some truth."

Intimidate = 6

Yemam then pats Ioan on the shoulder. "Good catch friend. A sign of a true leader I'd say."

Marius looks towards Ioan, "that one almost got past us. Quite impressive my friend."

Marius looks towards Lodin, "You know, this is hardly the way to bargain for a few more sunsets. Now is there anything of value you want to add or do we just move on? Remember besides the gallows there are worse things out there, or in here for that matter."

Marius nervously glances to the shadows as the color leaves his face, "what did I tell you?" Turning pale Marius does his best to hang on to his nerve, "can we please leave, I want no part of that thing he angered it let him deal with it!"

Diplomacy=23
Bluff=28 (natural 20)

Lodinn tries to bluff his way on. "Hey, I can tell you all kinds of things about Timothy! He's a right bastard. I used to sell all my catches to him. He'd have 'em carted off to... to... to Barovia! Sell 'em to the Demon Strahd."

Charisma check = 18 (OOC: Yeah, that pretty much requires him to roll a 20)

Ioan shakes his head in irritatation, though anybody who doesn't know him might also think he's gotten a gnat in his ear.

"Stop encouraging him. He doesn't know anything," Ioan says, and turns away from the cell to see where Adam has gotten off to.

"When Adam's done prayin' with the condemned we maybe oughta go. I mean, unless one o' you can think o' somethin' here we've forgotten."

Wisdom check=23

Ioan scowls at himself, which requires a particular style of crosseyed-ness that only the homeliest of giogoto half-breeds can pull off.

He mumbles as he walks toward the exit... "I'm not in charge here. I'm not. I'm jus' standin' in front sometimes."

Hassid was not sure how he should feel about Lodinn. Should he desire the man another day, or be greatful that justice will run its course.

But then his lying sort of sinched the deal. Lying means that he had not learned his lesson, and if he had been let go then he most likly would return to his old life of slaving.

Hassid again turned his thoughts inward as there were still things there that he needed to come to terms with, and he guessed prison tended to bring that out in him.

ooc: Random Roll = 13

Marius remained silent unsure how to proceed from here. He followed the group for now thoughs inward and eyes peeled on the shadows.

Random roll=11

Yemam just shakes his head at Lodinn. "Lying once was bad, but trying to make something out of nothing like this is quite sad. My the gods have mercy on you."

At that he turns and follows Ioan quietly.

Adam finishes talking with the remainder of the prisoners and returns to Lodinn. He stares him in the face and begins a conversation.

"Brother, it appears you have been caught in your lies by an honest and good man. I can offer you but a small amount of solace. Tell us what you know of Strahd, the slave trading and most important Captain Timothy. If this group senses you tell the truth we will provide you with a final meal, drink and carry your last requests to any loved ones that you may have."

"You will hang tomorrow and we won't stop the wheels of justice, but we can provide you some comfort . Tell us what you know and we'll make your last hours more comfortable."

Adam waits for Lodinn to respond unsure of how his message will be received by a condemned man.

Diplomacy (1d20+6=13)

Lodinn rolls his eyes. He senses that the opportunity has passed.

"Look. Thanks for your interest. But a good meal in my belly doesn't stop the rope from snapping my neck. So why don't you just get the hell out of here and stop bothering me. I don't know your Timothy. I don't know you."

With that, he slumps back, cutting the conversation...

...and leaving the group to decide what to do next.

"Let him die with the horse-thief" Hassid said with a spit lifting himself off the wall. It would seem thier intentions were fine and grand, but perhaps justice would be served in the morning.

ooc: Intimidate = 10 His heart really wasn't in it.

Looking towards Ioan. "So then friend...where are we off to now. Maybe the gods can steer us in a good direction?"

Ioan shrugs. "Dunno. Out of here, for starters. Maybe it's time to look into Matton's girlfriend... 'course I wouldn't know where to start wi' that."

And with that, he heads for the exit. He has had enough of the inside of this prison.

Marius follows Ioan, "I think you should reconsider this leader thing. You're doing a splendid job. Perhaps we could start with Matton about the girlfriend thing, maybe we'll be able to get some info about Tim's curse as well."

Marius does not interrupt Adam and waits for a proper moment to ask, "My friend correct me if I'm wrong. Did my ears deceive me or at one point I hear you mention some about..." Marius looks around and to the shadows, "something about S ... S ... Strahd?"

Marius is disturbed by the mention of Strahd. But the mention seems to flee as the group steps back into the bright fall day light. It seemed impossible how dark it had been and how adjusted they had become to that darkness in that short time.

Without a clear direction, the group wandered back toward the city center. The town was slowly coming to life as last night's revelers recover from the party. Finding a nice restaurant, the party settles in for a lunch and to discuss their plans.

((Put forward your proposal for the groups next actions.))

[Ikoma]

Ioan mumbles through a mouthful of food.

"The prison didn't pan out so well for us." He glances at Adam. "Well... some good came of it, anyway. s' prolly good we went. Still, we're no closer to answers."

He looks at Marius.

"Lodinn was just name-dropping, you know. No way a nobody like him knows an actual demon, Strahd or anybody else. An' I'm bettin' that if he ever tried to do business with Cap'n Timothy -- which he didn't -- he'd have ended up in the pit, not in coin. So... umm... don't worry about Strahd?"

Ioan ponders, hoping a good idea can be shaken loose from the cobwebs in his attic.
Intelligence Check=21

"Gods and demons! RAUL!"

Ioan pounds his fist on the table.

"Raul and his son, Nikki, vanished almost as soon as we stepped off the boat. Timothy HATES Vistani, and had to be faking that apology on the docks."

Ioan eyes are wide.

"Adam, Edgy, and me... we're here because we saved Raul and his boy. Yemam helped us save them again in the woods... and now I think they need us AGAIN. Timothy must have taken 'em, or had 'em taken when he arrived."

Hassid nodded "If he was a friend then we cannot leave him to the wiles of Timothy. Let us begin there, and perhaps the Riding Host may may provide the answers to other questions along the way." Hassid leaned back in his chair.

"It looks like we will begin with the docks. Unless you seriously think that anyone on the street would provide us with a straight answer. I am still concerned with the answers we received about the dog fights...too many people I believe are within Timothy's thrall. More of this town I believe are Werewolves as well I suspect."

Adam agrees with the group. Many of the signs point to Timothy. He didn't like to think of Raul and the young babe in Timothy's hand. Nothing good could come from it.

"Friends, I suggest we pay a visit to Matton. He owes us gold for protecting him from Timothy. He is also friendly toward us and probably knows more about Timothy than most people we would meet on the street."

"Lets go look for him at the Inn were we dined with him and see if we can arrange a meeting."

After discussing with the group he turns to Ioan.

"Ioan, things did go well there. Some souls were given a chance at redemption and other souls grew stronger by extending themselves beyond their comfort. I believe you were one of those souls, but you have to decide which gift you recieved."

Ioan puts his arm around Adam and bows his head graciously.

"Thank you, friend."

He pockets a hunk of bread, and looks around the table.

"To the inn, then?"

And then mumbling...

"Somebody else better do the talking when we get there... my face isn't good for first impressions."

(OOC: Edited -- I meant "Inn" and said "Docks" because I'm teh stoopid)

Just as the group makes their decision to head back to the Inn and look for Matton, perhaps to find more information about Timothy and/or the location of Raul and Nikki, a well-dressed woman approaches the table. She is in her later twenties or early thirties perhaps. She wears a fashionable dress, though modest by standards of the carnivale.

"Pardon me, good sirs, and I hope I do intrude unnecessarily. My name is Helene Maurgen. Please do not take this poorly, but I had heard from an acquaintance that you have only recently arrived in Invidia after a stay in the realm of Barovia. And I have intense personal curiosity about a manner there that I was hoping to ask you about. I know you probably do not know anything of importance, but I must exhaust every option."

There is raw emotion on her face... hope mixed with resignation.

Yemam looks at the woman softly.

"My name is Yemam Silverman. My lady, what is it that you wish to know? As you say, we may not know what you will ask of us, but I do hope that we can help you in your distress."

Adam turns and listens to Yeman's conversation. He closely studies her clothing, demeanor, posture, and attitude as the conversation progresses.

Marius whispers to the party, “name dropping. Where I come from no one just drops the name of Lord Strahd. Perhaps this is some weird custom.” Still not sure what was going on Marius saw no reason for his new friends to lie though he suspected that there is more here than meets the eye. I’ll come back to this he thought to himself.

Marius’ eyes perk up at the mention of Matton. He looks at Adam, “I agree. Matton is a good place to start. Perhaps he can fill us in on any info involving Tim’s curse? Any advantage will benefit us when we cross paths with the wolf-lord.” Marius spoke softly and did his best to hide the truth from his eyes, but the insult from Tim still lies deep and his kind will pay for the indignities done to his family. Marius smiled at the thought of Tim's head removed from the rest of his body.

Marius watches as the women approached and allows Yemam to speak, he then he pulls a chair for her, with a small bow he speaks “my lady, please sit.”

Bluff=15

Hassid has been remarkably tight lipped during the meal and when the lady approached. He simply looked up at her and measured her. Though he would wait to find out who her friend was and what her questions entailed before he passed final judgment.

Ioan listens and watches. He notes Marius' discomfiture, and realizes too late that in discrediting Lodinn's obvious lies he has upset their new friend.

Words and gestures, posture and poise... communicating truth is so complex, and so inextricable from communicating falsehood. Ioan marvels that anyone is able to communicate anything but ambiguity and stupor.

Charisma check=4

He knows that if he tries to articulate these thoughts, it would come out as ambiguous and unintelligible as ever. Besides, this meal has given him a mixture of gas and the hiccups. Best to keep the mouth shut.

*hic*

So he refocuses on the present. The woman is speaking. She may be truthful or dishonest, she may be informed or misled. Ioan believes that with the gods' favor, a wise man can discern all of this... and yet for all the wisdom Ioan can muster, that favor is still elusive.

Sense Motive=10

Yemam Silverman wrote:
Yemam looks at the woman softly.

"My name is Yemam Silverman. My lady, what is it that you wish to know? As you say, we may not know what you will ask of us, but I do hope that we can help you in your distress."

"Thank you, sir."

She waits as a space is made and then sits, primly and politely.

"Before I begin, I must say I do recognize the folly of my questions. You likely know nothing. But, as they say, hope dies slowly. My husband is missing. Has been missing for coming on three years. He was last known to be in Barovia. You see, my husband built a successful transportation company and provided well for our little family. As I'm sure travelers such as yourselves know, the dark lands between the bright lights of civilization are dangerous. Our wagon companies began to be attacked by something along the road through Barovia. My husband set out to uncover what was attacking the caravans and deal with it. I know he arrived at his setting off point. I received a letter. But we have heard nothing more since."

She begins to tear up a little as she continues, "I know he is probably not with us anymore. I can think of no other reason why he would not find some way to get message to me. My hope is not that you have seen him but rather that you may be able to tell me something of how he died. His name is Jeref Maurgren. He was last known to be in the village of Barovia itself."

She looks at each of you with almost naked hope in her eyes. That one of you would able to tell her something of the fate that befell her beloved...

Hassid nodded appropriately with her story. It could be true. It could be that her husband had fallen ill to Timothy and his ilk. But then it could be a well laid trap. This group did not make friends with Timothy and his pack last night. And this could be bait to draw them out into the open. But then again, it seemed that their investigation would not be hindered by her request, in fact it could be moved forward with more information at hand. It seemed in the end that they would take this request. Though Hassid thought of the silver of his sword…and how he would like to watch them become weary of Hassid as he moved forward.

But then, Hassid would not truly desire to run across a pack such as Timothy’s. The danger of turning is great with such a battle. Better to set things up for the local authorities, if they are equipped to do something about it.

Hassid does what he can to catch Ioan’s eye and nod his approval of moving forward with her request.

Ioan looks at Hassid and nods.

He looks back to Yemam and Adam, and then to the woman.

"We've... um.. yeah."

He clears his throat.

"I don't know your husband. Haven't heard his name. Haven't found any bodies in the woods. Nothin' like that."

He shakes his head, more at himself than at anything else. This is NOT what you're good at, Ioan.

"We were attacked on the river, though. Couple of us almost became bodies in the woods. So, ummm... yeah. We're lookin' into it. I dunno if we'll find Mister Maurgren for you, 'cause the river's a long way from the road, but the more you can tell us, the better."

Diplomacy=11

Marius lilstens to the women but his thoughts run to Timothy. Another reason to bring his band to rest he thinks to himself.

Marius turns to Hassid, "my friend when we get the chance I would like to discuss your ideas for a battle plan, should the need come up. Were-beasts I know, but I have a feeling that your strategies might prove ever useful." Marius bowed his head in respect to his new friend.

Marius turns his attention to the lady and studies her for any signs to falsehood though his mind set on Timothy distracts him.

Sense Motive=11

[Ikoma]

Yemam sees Ioan struggle with the situation. "What my friend is trying to say my lady. I believe that as a whole we have not heard of your husband. However...if he were to come up while we do our current task, we will tell you. Perhaps you might tell us where you are staying?"

Diplomacy = 29

Ioan sighs with relief when Yemam takes over.

Charisma check=8

He hopes he has not exhaled hard enough for his halitosis to put anyone off their meal.

As you relate your lack of information, her face falls. Oh, she puts on a good show. No tears. Nothing so dramatic. But it's obvious she had hoped you knew something.

"Of course, of course. It was a distant and weak opportunity. If you do uncover any information, you may find me... or someone who can contact me... at Maurgren Shipping on the docks. I spend a great deal of time there running my husband's business."

She rises, almost stately, "And good sirs, if you ever travel back to Barovia, please keep me in your mind. I know he is likely dead. And what wealth he may have had on him is no concern of mine. But... I hesitate to ask. His ring. His wedding band, I would truly treasure having that token of him back. If it every became possible."

Hassid coughed to grab her attention, “I am sorry to interrupt. But what I believe Yemam meant was that we believe that your husbands disappearance and our current investigation may lead us to the same source. And that if information of his whereabouts or his ring are turned up that we would be more than happy to bring them to you.”

Hassid hoped that the courtier flowery speech would sooth her and offer her confidence in their actions.

Yemam nods to Hassid's comment. "Yes my lady...that is what I meant with my words. I am sorry for any distress that misunderstandment may have caused. Thank you Hassid for clearing that up. I had not realized my words were confusing, but it happens occasionally."

Looking at Helene. "May our paths cross again with good news." He smiles warmly.

Marius smiles, soon Timothy soon, he thinks to himself.
Marius attemtps to refocus his thoughts. "Do not worry my lady all things will be revealed in due time. We are all glad to help."

Marius' mind betrays him and he suddenly remembers where he is, his eyes jump to the shadows.

The lady nods with genuine respect.

"I sense you are men of your word. And I rest knowing that if information comes to you, you will deliver it to me. But I do not expect you to set your own cause aside to take up mine. I will offer this. If and only if your path takes you back to Barovia, please come see me. I would gladly offer you passage with one of our caravans."

She shakes each one of your hands. Each of you feels a strengthening of the heart. So often in Ravenloft, you see only corruption and darkness. Your recent trip to the game events of the night before. Your immediate visit to the prison as well. But to see that there are still some holding to ways of respect and hope is heartening. And it with a increased sense of direction, you set off to locate Matton.

-----

He is easy to find. He's in the first place you look, in fact, the common room of the inn where you and he have rooms. He looks haggard, as if little sleep found him last night. Gruel is before him as well as a mug of some type of fruit juice. He looks up as you come to his table. And while his face doesn't register fear, it does register annoyance.

Sense Motive=8

The annoyance on Matton's face goes unnoticed by Ioan, who sees only a tired man sitting at a simple breakfast.

"Blessings of the morning to you, Matton" he says cheerily.

Charisma check=11

Still a little upset from the evening before Marius looks over Matton attempting to read him, "We have questions! Most of them concerning Timothy." Marius begins to sit at the table, "But please finish your meal. One should never talk on an empty stomach." Marius smiles and motions for the servent girl. "I'll have what the gentle ... what he's having?"

Marius makes no attempt to hide his discontemt, he doesn't see the point to it now.

Sense Motive=15
Diplomacy=17

As Adam sat watching the conversation with Matton his mind keep running back over their previous conversation. Something about a ring was bothering him. Where had they seen a ring in the last couple of days.

"I remember now" he shouts.

The crowd turns to face him and Adam's face turns red.

"I apologize for my cry. Please attend to your business" he says to the crowd and gestures to Ioan to come speak with him.

He begins talking in whispers to Ioan.

"Where is the ring from the severed finger we found two night ago. Is there a chance this could be Lady Maurgren's husband's ring. We need to take it to her and find out."

Hassid sat down next to Marius and just looked at Matton with a level glare. He leaned back and crossed his arms and just looked.

Yemam figures that crowding the annoyed noble would displease him more than is already displeased, so pulls up a seat on the other side of Marius. He keeps quiet for now, only watching Matton's every move.

Ioan blanches.

"Ye gods. And I thought that was my breath."

He reaches into the vestment behind his breastplate and extracts the finger, ring and all.

Matton goes back to his breakfast. In between bites, he addresses the group, "I'll tell you anything you want to know about the forsaken Captain Nathan Timothy. Bastard! Just ask away."

Meanwhile, Adam and Ioan take a look in the morning light at the grizzly token wrapped in the message they had picked up last night. There is indeed a ring. A silver ring with a black stone. Inscribed in the stone is a silver hawk, symbol of Falkovia. Helene Maurgren did not seem to be Falkovian. She had the speech and dress of a native of this land, Invidia. But she did make no mention of the nationality of her husband.

To Adam:

"Well... there's a ring. Do we show it to Helene Maugren by itself, or as it was delivered to us?"

[Ikoma]

Back to Ioan:

"Lets show her the ring alone as a start. It may give her some hope, although it will be brief as she will undoubtaly ask how and where we obtained it. At that point we will need to discuss the finger and the mysterious stranger. We need to steel ourselves for a very difficult conversation, but the truth must be told."

Hassid continued to observe Matton with a level stare.

"Ha, well I got him talking, as if there was any doubt" Marius says proudly. "Who wants to ask the first set of questions?"

Too excited Marius does not wait for an answer, "If not I'll give it a shot. What do you know about Timothy's curse, the one that ties him to his boat? His activities if you know of any would be good as well. Actually, don't let me limit you. Tell us all you can, especially things that will ease the removal of his head from the rest of his body."

Marius attempts to be as diplomatic as possible, but his focus to hide his ire toward the wolf-lord limits his skill.

Diplomacy=9
Bluff=20

Yemam waits for Matton to answer Maruis' question, wanting to hear truths come out of his mouth.

Sense Motive = 17

To Adam:

"Yeah, what was I thinking?"

He pulls the ring off of the finger, doing his best to hide the fact that he is essentially robbing a tiny corpse (while inwardly giggling at the macabre fact that he is, essentially, robbing a tiny corpse.)

"Unless you can think of a use for this, I'm going to get rid of the body--err, the finger."

He then notes the ongoing discourse with Matton.

To Adam again:
"Marius is good at that... isn't he? Or is he?"

Adam and Ioan finish their brief huddle and return to the main conversation.

Matton takes a big drink as he listens to Marius' questions. He sets the mug down, leans back in his chair and runs his hand through his hair.

"Well, I can tell you this. His curse does not tie him to the boat. He is tied to the Musarde river. Don't ask me why," he holds his hand up, "because I have never heard the story behind it. I assume either the Vistani or the Dark Lords of Ravenloft have placed the curse, because anything else would surely have been broken by this point."

Matton pulls a pipe from his pouch and takes a moment to fill it with weed an light it. Once he has a nice fire going, he resumes his tale, "He cannot stray more than a few hundred yards from the Musarde river's or his life begins to drain. I would hazard that last night's fights were right at his leashes length. You will not often find him even that far from the river."

"As to his weaknesses, as you may have guessed, he is a were lord. A master of shape shifters. He exerts a strong and powerful call and most of the wolf-men follow him unquestionably. Even at first meeting, they feel... a strong pull toward him. Even wolves in the wild answer his call readily. Particularly if he offers them a chance to find easy prey. He has most of the weaknesses of his kind. Only silver will do him lasting harm, though fire will hurt him more than a blade will."

"Is that what you wished to know? Anything else I can help you with?" He asked with a cocked eyebrow. Suddenly, a look of remembrance flashes across his face.

"My good men! I have almost forgotten to discharge my debt to you. I apologize. Let me rectify that immediately."

With a snap of his fingers, one of the hunt followers you saw a few days ago makes a quick appearance. A short whispered conversation between Matton and his underling follows. The underling then scurries off and Matton returns his attentions to you.

Ioan turns to Adam, and tries his best to whisper...

"Should we show the ring to Matton? Maybe he knows something."

Whispering back to Ioan.

"Yes, lets show it to him. I want to see his reaction and glean any information that we can. Lady Maugren seemed a nice sort, but things can be deceiving in Ravenloft."

Leaning a little closer he continues.

"My good friend please keep the severed finger and note until after our discussion with the Lady. It may seem insanity, but if this ring does belong to her husband she will probably want to see and keep them. It is all see has left."

Approaching Matton he begins to speak.

"Matton it is good to see that you keep your word. This gold will go to good use. Last night we found a small trinket and were wondering if you could help us identify what it is"

"Ioan, please show Matton our little ring."

Hassid was glad to have confirmed that the Werewolves of this world were vulnerable to silver as was where he was from. His sword would deal dire wounds to the Werewolf Timmothy when again they meet.

And though his gaze remained level a grin began to touch the edges of his mouth.

Ioan casually proffers the ring in the palm of his hand, letting Matton pick it up if he wants.

Yemam continues to watch Matton, letting his friends do the talking for once. It seems they too have a dislike of nobles...or at least this one.

Marius contemplates Matton's words and searches his mind for more questions to ask. He sees Ioan produce the ring and suddenly is shifted back to reality. "Huh, where ... ohh, sorry my friends" he speaks softly.
I've been so focus on Timothy I forgot where I was he thinks to himself.

Matton reaches forward to pluck the ring from Ioan's palm. He holds it up to the light and looks it over with a quick but thorough inspection. He then hands it back.

"I would make the assumption you got it from the missing gent from your party. It's Falkovian. A ring indicating rank. Whomever it belonged to was a person of moderate to low importance in the Falkovian military. A lieutenant or something similar. Why do you ask?"

Ioan pockets the ring.

"We found it outside the 'dog fights.' There was a finger in it, but no hand on the finger. It was wrapped in paper, written on by some fella claimin' to own the darkness, the anger, and the vengeance."

(OOC: here's the thread referring to the event.)

Diplomacy=10

Hassid almost raised his eyebrow. He wanted to know what Matton was about to say.

[Ikoma]

"We just wish to know what it is. You know...one finds something and then becomes curious over what it is."

Marius looks to the shadows, can never be to cautious thinking to himself and listens to anything Matton will add.

"Oh, vengeance and darkness? Sounds like you had a tangential run in with the Midnight Slasher. Nasty gent who rights wrongs and avenges the weak and other such stuff. Of course, he mostly just hits the Falkovians. I know that Commander Regess has a sizable bounty on the vigilante's head. And since I know there is much injustice this Slasher never gets around to fixing, I'm inclined to believe they have a personal beef with someone and are acting out. When I'm inclined to think about them at all."

The servant previously sent returns with a small chest. Matton removes a key from about his neck. The servant places the chest on the table, Matton unlocks it and begins to count out the gold owed to each of you.

"Have you heard any more about Gabrielle?"

The gold was well met as Hassid was not sure fully the measure of a gold piece, being from a land where barter was king and men traded in gold only at the point of a sword. His brief time here so far has given him an idea of the measure of a gold piece. But it seemed to be the form of currency and for that Hassid meant to be cautious of where and how he spends. He accepts his bag of gold with a real smile of gratitude even though he found the man vile and repulsive. But at leads he was a man of his word.

"We've asked around a bit, but haven't gotten invited in. Mostly we learned that all of her ex-beaus are pushing up daisies."

Ioan cocks his head.

"Well... all of them except you. That made us a little nervous on the bodyguard job."

Diplomacy=17

Ioan ponders the "Midnight Slasher" and the party's obvious ignorance regarding something the locals all knew about. He wonders what other common knowledge is going over their heads.

"Matton... do you know anything about the intense looking little boy in black who seems to show up for public disturbances?"

Marius picks up the bag of gold and dips his head in a small bow towards Matton. He turns to the side, glances at the shadows and makes a small count of the coin inside.

Marius glances at Ioan, "who knows my friend? Time will tell us just how much in over our heads and hearts we are. Not to worry I have it on good authority that we will succeed." Marius looks up to the sky and turns to Yemam, "of course I know Locke is an expert. Sheesh is he always this personal? No he's starting to sound like my father. Oh well ..." Marius smiles and goes back to counting.

Yemam gladly accepts the bag of gold and assumes it is all there. "Thank you...I wasn't going to say anything...you know with the fight and all...but thank you."

Yemam nods with Ioan's statement. "Yes, a boy in black seems to cause a lot of trouble lately. I in the very least have some suspicions that he may even be causing the strange behavior of your Gabrielle."

He turns to Marius' after his statement. He smiles and in a concerned voice he says, "Um...friend...are you well? Locke is in the latrine at the moment. Maybe it truly is your father you are hearing?"

Matton's generally genial mood is shattered at mention of the Boy in Black.

"Hush! Are you mad? To talk openly about the Child is nearly suicide. You do not want to draw his attention. For his attention means death. I know of no possible relationship between he and my Lady."

All of this is accompanied by signs to ward off evil.

"If you choose to follow this line, look elsewhere. I will not talk of it."

Ioan pockets his pay with the others, and then responds to Matton...

"Fine, fine. Sorry to spook you. We're new in town, and are just figuring out that there's a whole lot of common knowledge that really ain't all that common. The Midnight Slasher, Captain Timothy, and now this latest revelation."

Ioan shakes his head in exasperation. He's trying to be nice, he's trying to be diplomatic, but he's just not feeling it. Also, he suspects that his halitosis is waxing pungent... either that or somebody else in the room has a rotting eyetooth.

"The fates of Gabrielle's previous beaus were common knowledge among townsfolk. They shared it freely with us for the price of drinks, a smile, or just someone to converse with. I can't believe it's somethin' YOU didn't know about. An' it bugs me that it's somethin' you didn't tell US about. Yer payin' good money for our time, thankyouverymuch. You can probably help us spend it more wisely."

Diplomacy=2

Yemam thinks to himself. ::I knew it. That meddling boy is trouble. I must keep my eyes and ears open for him. Locke you too. Make sure you keep your eyes and ears open.::

"What does the... child," Matton whispers the word, "have to do with Gabrielle? I did not mention the... child because I would not be so callous as to risk his interest in you or I. It is the same with anyone else. And as far as Gabrielle's previous relationships goes, I knew some of them have met foul ends. But I refuse to believe Gabrielle has abandoned me. She is under some sort of charm or compulsion, I know it!"

((There will be no post tomorrow! Have a happy holiday. There probably won't be another post until Monday.))

Marius continues to count his coins ... this is rude you realize he thinks to himself. THen he hears the Matton's words of the child, "suicide." He can not contain his nerves and resumes counting or at least pretending too.

((happy gobble gobble day everyone. Eat, be marry, that's what holidays are for))

Hassid vaguely remembers a child at the incident with the wedding party. But could a child inspire such fear? It must be more than a child. Perhaps one of Izrador's servants.

Hassid shook his head again. He was no longer in his homeland. He was still striving to remember that.

Diplomacy=5

Ioan lowers his voice, but it probably carries...

"The question is not what he has to do with Gabrielle, but what he has to do with ANYTHING. He's a wild-card."

"Timothy runs dogfights, shaves a lot, and stays by the river. The slasher is after Falkovian military men, and lurks in alleys. THOSE two clearly have nothing to do with Gabrielle."

Ioan's voice drops to a whisper... mostly because Matton was whispering.

"The child, though... anywhere there's anger, or violence, or even animal mayhem, he could be involved."

Ioan stands up straight and shrugs.

"At least as far as we know. And we still don't know very much."

[Jumping ahead to keep things moving.]

Matton knows nothing else. He flatly refuses to talk about the boy in black. Everyone refuses to talk about the boy in black. High or low, the locals just will not talk. And visitors, like yourselves, here for their own reasons, don't know anything.

The rest of the morning passes as the group looks for information. On the boy in black or on Raul. Eventually, you find yourself in the main market during lunch. Lost and a little bewildered, you wander amidst the humanity. Tonight is the final night of the carnivale and it's obvious that it will be a party to remember.

As you wander, you hear a barker call out in the unmistakable accent of the vistani, "Come, see the Casket of Wonder! Experience the thrills and chills in complete safety!"

[Ikoma]

During the ventures to find information Hassid again checks on StarDancer.

"I know my sweet" Hassid said to her as she whinnied as he approached. "Soon we will be gone from this place and back out into the open land where you can run free. But as of yet we must remain." He wished that he sounded more convincing, but he was just not sure how much longer they would remain. He gave StarDancer a carrot and an apple to spoil her before leaving her side.

Keeping the stable-boy happy with a nice tip Hassid then again heads out to find more information. The barker did not draw much interest from Hassid. The Casket of Wonder just did not seem interesting to Hassid. Perhaps a Black Mirror to break would raise his hopes.

OOC: Handle Animal = 15

"Hey, Hassid. I'm glad you're horse is okay. Must be hard bein' stuck in a city... 'specially one so far from home."

He cocks his head in the direction of the barker.

"It's probably ridiculous. Come on, we could use a laugh, right? We just got paid. I've got the coin. You're spending yours on food for two, an' one of 'em eats like a horse."

Hassid shook his head and almost laughed at the bad joke Ioan made.

"Friends, maybe we should go and check this out. Maybe it can give us some sort of clue and if not...well...its a little fun."

((Just a head's up. I'm in Vegas all week for AutoDesk University. I've got a laptop and they have tons of free wireless access points at the conference. But I'm in class most of the day. I will be around. I will be posting. But I'm away from most of my books.))

Pushing through the crowd, the crew is treated to quite a sight. A small square has been taken over by 'acts' appropriate for a carnivale. There is a man swallowing fire. Another man juggles seven balls while balancing on a stool balanced on a single staff. A pair of twins, who share a leg, do a mockery of a dance. And there, on the far side of the square, stands a 7' tall black lacquered box. It does indeed resemble a casket. It is lined with red silk.

In front, a man dressed in a gaudy pastiche of vistani fashion, puffy white shirt, wide red silk sash tied as a belt, black satin vest with red trim. Bis head is shaved and gleams in the noon-day sun. A large, golden hoop hangs from one ear. A parrot sits on his shoulder.

"Come and test your selves. Face the ghosts of your past!"

"CAW! GHOST OF YOUR PAST!"

"You're strong of arm, and wit. But what of your will? Can you experience the thrills of the monsters of the mist?"

"CAW! MONSTERS OF THE MIST!"

"A single gold coin buys you seven minutes in the Casket of Wonder. Your life will never be the same!"

"CAW! NEVER BE THE SAME!"

Through the whole spiel, he speaks to each and every member of the thronging crowd. But as he concludes, he turns to face your group, and unmistakably, winks at Ioan with a knowing eye.

Marius, lost in his own mind, counting coin realizes that the party has began moving forward. He runs to catch up to the group, well at least we got paidhe thinks to himself.

Marius turns to Hassid, "your friend is truly magnificent. I really hope he gets to run free soon. I understand all to well the confines of the city,” already he thought about running free in the forests of Drakon. Well free as one can be.

Marius’ thoughts are interrupted by the sounds of a parrot. He listens but the more the parrot repeats the more irritated he becomes, “does that this have to repeat everything he says. Damn that’s annoying!” He realizes that he has spoken his mind once more, he turns to Yemam, “I did it again didn’t I?” Marius sighs, “Oh well. When you’re me, it’s hard to be someone else. Besides, who would want to?” he boasts.

Turning to Marius, Yemam whispers "Yes friend, you did do it again, but it no big deal. I completely agree that the tactic this man uses is annoying."

Turning to Ioan, "Do you know this man?"

Marius smiled at the sincerity in Yemam's voice. The support reminded him that he wasn't alone in the city, though he longed to get into the wilderness once more.

"I don't know him... but I think I'm going to take him up on the casket."

Ioan feels deeply drawn to the vistani street hawker and makes his way across the small square. The rest of the group follows. As soon as Ioan makes that decision, the vistani ceases all attempt to influence other festival-goers to play.

"That's right! Come this way and step in the casket. You'll experience wonders gallore."

The cleric steps up the slight step and turns, backing into the upright, red-silk lined casket. There is a moment of disconcertment among the others as they see Ioan in a vehicle for carrying the dead to the next life. His arms lie next to him as the barker raises the lid and presses it to the caskets. with a sharp hiss, the caskets seals and a burst of steam of smoke envelopes the casket.

And... then silence....

Hassid held in check his instinct to rush in and break open the casket. The smoke and such could have been nothing more than smoke and theatrics, but he had heard much about these vistani and their tricks. But Hassid holds back for the time being and waits for the others reactions.

Yemam's hands instinctively touches his rapier, but he remembers the rules of the town and eases. However he glares at the Vistani. "I hope you can assure me my friend is okay. Because otherwise we might have to tear that thing apart. I never leave my friends behind you see and the silence is disturbing me."

Yemam stands tense awaiting the next few moments that feel like years passing by.

Marius readies his draw hand as his thoughts rush to all the people he has lost thus far in his life. His mind eases a bit as he remembers Ioan being of half blood. The Vistani have rules among themselves, I hope those rules apply here as well he thinks to himself. “I trust this is a wonderful trick and nothing more. I would hate to think or see otherwise. That’s my friend you have in there,” Marius speaks firmly.

The barker maintains a bright smile, "My good men! Surely you trust your friend? He will return in due course. Would any of you like to take a turn? Test your mettle?"

The parrot takes flight but only circles around the small square.

Yemam steps up. "Very well...let me in there. One way or another I will find Ioan."

[Ikoma]

Marius nerves are at their peek, he starts glancing to the shadows. "This ought to be good. Or rather there better be a happy ending!" Looking toward Yemam, "I hope you know what you're doing?"

Looking to Marius. "I don't. But I do know that Ioan is wherever that casket sent him, if it sent him anywhere...and I don't leave my friends behind...not since...." his voice trails off. "Never mind. If for whatever reason we don't see each other again. If was a pleasure meeting you."

Looking to the sky Yemam seems to listen to something. "No...I'm not gonna talk now."

(Yemam makes a quick glance around specifically for the boy in black)

Spot = 9
Second pair of eyes Spot = 11

The boy in black is not around. The carnivale barker looks around, trying to follow Yemam's gaze.

"Oh, your friend is within the mystical power of the casket of wonder!"

"CAW! CASKET OF WONDER!"

"And he will return when he learns what the oracles have to tell him. Do you wish to visit your own test of inner fortitude now? Or wait to see what miracles your friend witnessed first?"

"I'm going in after him." Yemam steps up to the casket and waits for the vistani's instructions.

With each passing moment Hassid's itch to draw his sword and strike down that bird grew with fervor. That he did not was a testament to his will power.

"Casket of Wonder..." Marius spoke aloud, more like the casket of annoyance he thought to himself. “If things don’t go right, I’ll make sure you are avenged my friend,” his voice directed toward Yemam. Marius managed to catch his hand at the last moment instinctly traveling towards his bow.

Yemam steps up to the casket. The vistani barker has a smile on his face. With a flourish, he pops the lid off the casket. Ioan is not inside. It appears no different than it did when you first showed up. With a deep breath, Yemam steps into the casket. The rest of the group is nervous. With the same theatrical style as before, the barker places the lid on the casket. There is the familiar poof of smoke.... and nothing.

Hassid began to go through the shurapoli in his head. It was all he could do to keep his mind off of his friends disappearance. There was still something that was haunting him, there was still something that he was missing. There was something on how to wield a heavy blade with such delicate balance such as his Cedeku...then he began to understand it. His movements had been too small. To flow wish such a weapon he would need to flow himself. The teachings of his master began to come together. He was still not yet a master, but he has again taken another step.

"This isn't good. Something's not right here. I'm telling you, I have a bad feeling about this," Marius spoke nervously, his voice directed toward Hassid eyes jumping from shadow to shadow.

He waited a few more seconds looking at the casket but could not contain his voice, "bring them back. Bring them back right now!" Marius commanded.

Intimidate=12

The vistani barker raises his hands halfway in the universal gesture of 'hold on there'.

"Good sir. I cannot bring them back. Only they can bring themselves back when they have conquered their fear. Have no fear, they are safe."

A passing city guard makes notice of the brewing confrontation and steps in, "Hey buddy, this vistani rat stealing from you?"

Hassid shook his head when the guard walked by. "No sir, were just astonished at his act. Its quite a trick." he said with a straight face trying to offer a reasonable excuse that would not take the casket from out of thier sight.

The guard squints at the barker, "You keep it clean and legal buddy! I get one," he holds up his index finger, "I mean just one complaint and I will throw you out of here so fast your damn bird won't know where you got too."

With that the soldier moves on, casting frequent dirty glances at the vistani.

The vistani himself is obviously nervous when dealing with the guard but once the soldier passes, he returns to his normal confident self. The parrot flies back from it's perch atop the casket to land on the barker's shoulder. With a deep clearing gulp, the barker looks over Hassid, Marius and Adam. And a awkward little stand off begins.

Marius does his best to return the look and read the vistani, but his nerves concerning his new friends and things in the shadows gets the better of him, his mind unable to focus. He puts on a determined grin and stares.

Intimidate=13
Sense Motive=4

Hassid leaned against a lampost and began to move through formations in his mind, tensing the correct muscles in order as if he would with a sword in hand. He did believe that he had it.

All the while he kept his eyes level with the vistani.

Intimidate = 21

Marius tries to relax but the tension in his mind forbids him from doing so. He remains fixed in place and continues the stand-off.