Chapter 4 - Back in Karkas

[Gralhruk]

The weary band presses on as long as their aching bodies will respond before settling down for the evening. They tend to their wounds as best they can and set about the business of dinner, chewing more out of habit than any enjoyment of the tough journey bread and salted meat in their packs. There is little talk around the campfire that night; perhaps the flames remind them too much of the passing of one of their own, perhaps they are filled with thoughts of their own mortality.

Thankfully, the night is uneventful and they rise somewhat refreshed though some pains will take longer to fade than others. It is hard to say what thoughts run through each mind; the shining righteousness of evil vanquished, the dark caverns of self-loathing, the still waters of inner harmony, the bloody light of a new dawn, or the warm wind of change. Whatever they might be, they remain uniquely individual. Though fate has pushed them together they have not yet learned to lean on one another. In a way, their trust is as fragile as the light frost that covers the ground in the pre-dawn gloom.

The day passes with only a brief rest and a meager meal before they press on, anxious now to reach their destination. Their exertions are rewarded as the sun begins to sink in the west. From the heights they can see the frontier town beneath them; sizable but rustic. It is ringed with a palisade and a few watchtowers, with gates on each of it's four sides.

Declaring themselves at the gate, they are allowed passage into the town with little more than a gate tax and a few words of caution. The dusty street is relatively empty and lights shine from within several buildings. There is a large, inviting inn just down the street.

[itches]

As he finishes his latest song, Nicos, looks up as a group of 5 make their way in through the door, letting in the chilly night air in for a moment. They are all travel-stained, and somewhat bloodied. Two of the newcomers are tall and burly men. Warriors by the look of them, and they share something more in their bearing, and the way that they walk.

As if they were trained by the same person Nicos muses.

The Third of the newcomers hold a stick out in front of him, and it is quickly apparent that he is blind. The forth and by far most eye catching member of the party is a short stature woman, who is completely bald! So stuck is Nicos by this sight that he almost misses the last of the newcomers. Seeming to find shadows to where there are none, this similarly short statured woman, and an extremely dark one at that. Immediately marking her as dangerous, and vowing never to turn his back on her, Nicos steps away from where he was performing.

Dangerous yes, but some times the more dangerous they are, the more fun they end up being

Walking towards them, the bard catches the elbow of one of the –less then completely covered up- barmaids and whispers something in her ear. With a wink at him, she moves towards the bar, while he continues to make his way across the half-full room. Deciding the best approach would be the blind man and the bald woman, he makes his way to them. Giving a small bow, he motions with his only arm at an empty seat.

”’ello, is this seat taken?”

[Maeko]

It was dark already when they arrived in town.
The guardsman at the gate let them through with a glance and a wave, barely letting them pass before locking the gate for the night and hurrying back in the guard-room, out of the drizzle and the chilly wind.
The town was settling in for the night, not many where around; shadows behind tick window-panes spoke of families gathered around a meal or quietly talking in front of a fire.

Here and there hints of movement in corners and doorways: hunting cats, a merchant hurrying home from her shop, a young couple kissing...
Maeko followed Cadrius’ and Paladin’s lead, whispering guidance to Cadogan while Shade brought up the rear.
Her guides stopped in front of a building, from the lighted windows snatches of music and laughter could be heard, a inn of some sort, no doubt.

When Cadrius opened the door, a wave of heat and smells hit the nun like a physical blow, she almost staggered as the thick, sweetish odor of roasted meat, mixed with the tang of cheese made bile rise in her throath.

“ Is something wrong?” asked the blind mage, concern in his voice.
Maeko forced her stomach under control moving a few steps and breathing shallowly.
“ No, older brother, I just need few moments, I am not used to meat-smell”.
“ I see...” he answered.“ Could you, please find me a quiet place to seat?”

Quickly the group was settling in at a table. With a sort of amused surprise Cadrius noted that Maeko was shifting every so often on her seat.
She doesn’t seem to be used to chairs either

Noticing a one-armed man coming towards them, some sort of entertainer, probably, since he had been singing when they had entered, Maeko stands and positions herself near Cadogan. A flash in the man’s eyes tell her he has seen and understood her move, but he does not react.
Nonchalantly nodding towards an empty chair he asks:”’ello, is this seat taken?”
“ No, it is not” answers the nun, neutral.

[SponkleofInfini]

From across the room sits an Elf; silent; nursing a bottle of fine elven wine. Parties of townsfolk drink joyously throughout the tavern; but despite the festive surroundings the Elf remains silent barely lifting his head from the table. Not until a new party enters the Inn; a group adventurer's which look to have fared a battle or two along throughout their journey to town. The one armed entertainer Nicos makes himself known to the group; flamboyant and curtious.

Hehe....Nicos what can he be up to. Plaguing the poor girl no doubt..........cheeky fellow.

Rising from his seat the elf clad in earth tone; a pale brown cloak drapped around his tall; slender form makes his way over to the newcomers; the fine elven wine in hand. Long silverery grey hair flows down his back like the heavenly River Ocean of Elysium.

"Do not trust this one my lady; he has enraptured many a woman within town before tonight."

Says the elf jokingly with a smile; his deep blue eyes fixed on the baldish girl baring Nicos' introduction.

"But where are my manners; my name is Laronar Infini. Do you mind if I sit with you all for a drink. I have a bottle of fine elvish wine if you care to share it with me." Motioning for a seat.

[Cadrius]

Cadrius nods wearily and answers the unasked question put forth by the party. This inn would do, at least for tonight anyway. The lacerations, bruises, and other assorted injuries fill the fallen paladin with a dull ache. All he wants is a hot bath and a soft bed to sleep on. He reaches up and rubs one worn hand against the rough stubble on his cheek, a shave would be nice too.

He is initially buffeted by the noise and heat as he makes his way into the Inn, Paladin a step behind him. For a brief moment the light, the laughter, and the general merriment sickens him. He frowns and shakes it off, he had been on the road too long, on the run too long.

As he moves across the room his eyes are hard like wrought iron. He gazes back and forth, marking any that might bring them trouble, and he knows that Shade, and quite likely Paladin, are doing the same thing. It is an Inn in a frontier town and it would undoubtedly attract all sorts of seedy characters. For a moment he rues the desctruction of his blade and the loss of his armor. He had given Paladin his plate mail back the night before, feeling awkward thanking the man for its protection and apologizing for breaking his greatsword. He is unarmored and the only protection he carries is the dagger in his belt, and the large club dropped by the gnoll warrior he had fought. Hopefully the runes and symbols carved in the massive club would discourage any would-be thugs, brigands, or thieves.

Several men in one corner laugh and guffaw at one's dirty joke. These were rough men, frontier men, and were Cadrius five years younger he might have been appalled at the atmosphere, but now the dirt and crude behavior only stir vague feelings of distaste.

He moves to an empty table in the back and moves to sit down before suddenly stopping and taking a step back. He reaches out and pulls out three of the chairs, one for Maeko, one for Shade, and one for the blind man Cadogan. He is embarassed by his action but courtesy is the stronger of the two and he mutters something about bringing a bit of decency to this place before taking his seat with his back to the wall.

His eyes flick from the entertainer to the elf and back again and they narrow ever so slightly as they speak, forming a familiar tone. Two thieves working in conjunction to scam the weary travelers? It is a common enough ploy and the fallen paladin is instantly on guard.

"No, I do not think we wish company," Cadrius says warily as he folds his arms over his chest, "but I do thank you for your offer."

[SponkleofInfini]

Yes it looks as if they are tired; perhaps it is best they are left alone for tonight; best not push anything.

"Very well sir; sorry for bothering you all. It looks as if you have all experienced some hardship along your journey I'll leave you all to enjoy the rest of the night."

Laronar nods to the party of hardened travellers and then to Nicos. Returning to his table and his wine; filling a glass and nursing it just as before.

[Gralhruk]

She had scouted ahead of the others for most of the day, glad that she didn't need to speak with them. As the sun began it's descent toward the western mountains they had spied the sizable frontier town and had pushed hard to get there before nightfall. As they approached the gates, Shade had dropped back and let the warriors do the talking.

Once inside, the inn was the obvious destination and she found herself relishing the thought of a bath. She needed cleansing. Despite her desire for a few well-earned creature comforts, she finds herself dropping a few paces behind the others as they near the noise and light. Her heart is suddenly heavy and she has a sudden desire to slip off; her eyes scan the street and she spots a darkened alley. Something didn't seem quite right about it and she scrutinizes it further but detects nothing amiss. Her companions don't seem to notice anything and when she looks back there she thinks she can see the shadowy figure of a tall, slim man. The image is gone before her eyes can focus, though. Disturbed, she shakes her head as if to clear it and quickens her pace, catching the others as they open the door to the inn.

They have barely had time to adjust to the light and noise when a one armed entertainer starts heading there way. Her mind is spinning with thoughts of the stranger and she is numbed by her long silence and the sudden bustle of activity around her. So out of sorts is she that she sits without thinking when Cadrius offers her a seat, a courtesy that normally would have brought a stinging word or two to her lips. Before she is even settled, the entertainer is joined by an elf and Cadrius dismisses them.

A drink first, and then to see about a bath.

[itches]

Glancing at the now departing elf Nicos grimaces. "I've been in this town for too long. I'm starting to get a reputation."

Returning his attention to the bald-woman, he pointedly ignores Cadirus, but remains standing.

"There is something I would like to ask you, and I fear if I pass up on this opportunity it will bother me, and my performances for the rest of the night will suffer as a result." Taking a breath he glances at the rest of her group. "The question relates to your hair style ... or rather lack there-of. I'm a moderately widely travelled soul, but I have only once encountered style like that one a woman. Before I make a fool of myself by talking too much, I don’t suppose you could enlighten me as to where you picked up such a distinctive style.”

((I don’t know if this helps any, but diplomacy: 19 [rolled 10, +9 skill modifier]))

[Maeko]

The one-armed performer intrigues Maeko, as does the other man's comment, is it possible that the man is really trying to attract her attention?
Who does he think I am? A flower-girl?

She is aware of her companions' tension, the man's last question, though, seems honestly curious, he really has no idea what her attire means.

I am as foreign to them as they are to me...

" This is way of my order" she answers, in her slightly hesitating, musical accent.
" I am nun, my temple is far away, how did you came to met one like me?"

Did he really? let see the answer

[itches]

The man half smiles at Maeko.

”Then I am not quite a complete fool yet. I grew up in a monastery quite a distance from here. Though I doubt it is as distant as your home.”

Taking an empty seat from a near by table and sitting on it, Nicos begins working at the neck of it.

“When I was about 9 summers old, we received a visitor from a distant monastery.”

Shaking his head slightly Nicos pauses a moment to collect his thoughts.

“I don’t remember where she came from, for it was a long time ago, and I was just a young boy. One thing that did stick in my mind – but so far back in it that I thought I had forgotten it, until just then when you entered the room – was that her head was completely bald”

Finally working his tunic over his left shoulder he revealed a tattoo of a bird’s claw. Bringing up his tunic over his shoulder, he turns to Maeko again.

“I don’t suppose you've heard of the Brotherhood of The Raven’s Claw?”

((It is very obvious that Nicos is no-longer a monk))

[Maeko]

" There are many Ways..." Nicos can clearly hear the capital 'W' in the girl's answer, " I don't know much more than the name of the Brotherhood of the Raven's Claw, but one courtesy deserves another".

The girl rolls up her wide sleeves, revealing two symbols on the inside of her forearms: a serpentine dragon on the right and a long tailed bird on the left, they are not tattoed, but seem branded on her flesh.

[itches]

Leaning over to get a closer look at the brands, Nicos frowns.

"I wish I could say that I recognize them, however they are beyond my experience." Turning the frown into a smile he continues. " Not that I ever was particularly knowledgeable about other orders".

"Something you said has tweaked my curiosity again, you mentions ways .."

Holding out a hand, Nicos stops Maeko from answering.

"Ah what am I doing, you people are obviously fresh from the road and" Looking at their blood stained clothing " other things. May I shout you all to a meal as a way of compensating for my introduce." With a meaningful look at Maeko he states, "They make a very good vegetable stew here. Plus if you would abide me more, I would very much like to speak to you later. You are one of the more interesting people I have met recently"


((Maeko Clean out your PM iinbox :fun: ))

[Maeko]

Maeko glances to her companions, then, with a slight smile:

" Thank you, I would be glad to speak with you".

[Cadogan Trahem]

Cadogan sits Idle as Maeko passes a conversation with the newcomer named 'Nicos' Cadogan listens as they speak of their past and Nico's apparent failure or choosing to leave an order known as the Raven's Claw.

Cadogan speaks up.

"Since neither of you know me." Cadogan address' Maeko by tugging on her clothing and Nico by nodding in his direction. "I feel it is my duty to fill you in - after all you both have shared your past with myself." Cadogan pauses for a moment and both Nico and Maeko feel the need to lean close to make sure the blind man is not sleeping.

"I originally arived in this very city, it seems like so long ago. I believe Cadrius is the only person in our troop who will remember." Cadogan mentions the fallen paladin and Cadrius glances his way for a second to see if anyone was addressing him. "Shortly after I arrived, a call to arms went up. Some Orc's had apparently attacked the city and shortly after breached the Palisade. Myself, Cadrius and several others went to action to fight the intruders."

Cadogan reaches up and gives his Raven a scratch under the beak before he continues his tale.

"Unfortunately, when we did repell the intrudes a Wyvern attacked, or so I am told." Cadogan tries cheap humour belittling his blindness but continues. "The creature caused some problems but it was eventually repelled as well, however I was badly wounded in the fighting and despite the medical and magical aid on hand needed to recover. This is when Cadrius and the rest disappear from my tale." He mentions in a quiet whisper towards Maeko.

"After my encounter I was approched by a man he had seen the fighting. After some very stern questions he asked me if I had strong ties to religion, I answered honestly - that is to say, while I do not deny the existance of deities or the divine I have had little experience or need to be religious." Cadogan again turns to Maeko and whispers.

"Naturally I praise the Sister God's of Sorcery, Magic and Wizardry but I do little to apease or worship them on a daily basis." Cadogan turns back to Nico and continues.

"The man was a Arcanist of The Triplets." Cadogan mentions the name and Nico jerks back, he had heard of religious order before. It was a semi-priesthood of tallented wizards and sorcerers who believe in this dark time where magic is feared more then reveared they should be the light and educated and lead people to the truth that magic is a neutral element.

"A Senior member I am told." Cadogan continues distracting Nico's away from his thoughts. "Either way, once I had recovered he returned for me. We traveled away from the city for some time before eventually we arrived at our destination. Over the next few days my magical powers were tested, my mind was tested, and my body was tested - all with my permission no less. It was a hard time but I was willing to put up with the pain for the answers which followed." Cadogan adds a suspencful pause for dramatics.

"It was shortly after this I was asked to join but three conditions." Cadogan pulls down his neck hole on his brown tunic revealing a mark on his skin, not a tattoo but something more magical. A Circle of brilliance of which three women stand, each casting spells, one forward, one left, and one right. Cadogan continues...

"Those conditions where thus;
1. I was to be educated religiously on the neutrality of magic and what this neutrality means.
2. My education was to continue even after I departed from the Halls of the Arcanists.
3. I was to teach all those who were unknowing or unlearned the truth about this, Magic is not to be feared or reveared alone. The person whom uses the magic should be, Magic is a tool. Admittedly a potent one, but a tool none-the-less." Cadogan pauses to make sure he still has an avid audience.

"The last is most challenging because it can of course be dangerious, there can be fanatics are in every kind of people from any profession." Cadogan speaks, and from a table near the trio a burly man stands up with two of his companions and approches the table.

"I 'ere you'd one o' those fiddle-benders!" Says the middle man. "Ya know 'here I's come from fiddle-benders arn'a looked upon nicely!" The man thumps his fist on the table before lowering himself to Cadogan's eyes and looking with confusion as the mage stares blankly ahead with white pupils. He raises his hand and Maeko's heart leaps but the man just waves his hand infront of Cadogan's face, Shirvel snaps at the man's hand with his beak but the man withdraws it just in time.

"Pardon?" Cadogan replies to the man.

"Oh, a smarties boy 'ey?" One of the other men mention as they stand next to their apparent leader.

"Let it be known sorceriousss one. I don'a take kindly to yer kind, I will see yer again but you won'a know it." He leans close and whispers. "'Cause you'll be choakin' on yer own blood." The man picks up a cup of water and throws it in Cadogan's face, the two men to either side laugh and the three man turn to depart.

Maeko and Nico's almost leap out of their seats, but Cadogan promptly puts a foot ontop of each of their shoes.

"Understand now?" Cadogan questions them, drying his face with a frown.

[itches]

Eyes narrowing as the ruffian struts towards the exit of the Inn, Nicos speaks softly.

"His name is Cletus, not a particularly bright fellow, and a general bully to boot. He has a well known vendetta against magic users, his wife and baby daughter were killed a few months ago when a young mage, had a mishap while doing what ever it is mages do."

Taking his eyes of the departing mans back; he looks over at the rest of the people sitting at the tabel.

"It took out a city block, only the mage survived. Still I’m surprised that he tried anything with your burly friends over there. A blind mage, one-armed minstrel and a small woman I can see him confronting, but," Nicos shrugs and gets up. "With them around I would expect him to take a more sinister route, say a knife in an alleyway." Leaning down towards the Blind-man, he drops his voice. "His sort of prejudice is moderately wide spread, but few hold onto it with such vigour. Plus you never know who can effect a spell or two"

With a wink at Maeko, and a nod at the rest of the people at the table he makes his way over to the bar to arrange for their food.

((a pointed reminder. That was what Nicos thought about Cletus, he could of been wrong ;) ))

[Cadrius]

Cadrius inclines his head, acknowledging the elf's courtesy, and looks for a barmaid to flag down. However he quickly notices that the musician refuses to leave. Irritation slowly bubbles and rises inside the fallen paladin, and a slight color touches his cheeks.

He asks of Maeko's hairstyle, what business is it of his? Cadrius begins drumming his fingers lightly along the massive club at his side. Not only does he ignore Cadrius' request, but he proceedes to throw etiquette out the window in asking about the nun. Only one grace keeps the fallen paladin from rising and demonstrating proper manners to the entertainer: Maeko's response. She does not seem to take offense and answers the questions openly. Very well, if she is unbothered by the man's presence then Cadrius will merely ignore the man. And he does so, focusing his attention elsewhere until Cadogan begins to speak.

He leans back in his chair, feigning disinterest while listening attentively. At the mention of the wyvern Cadrius nods, verifying the man's account.

"Indeed, it was strange to see the beast."

He frowns at the mention of the man. Who was an Arcane Triplet? Could it have been Whonan and his sisters? No, there were four of them and none really looked to be the identical of any other. Odd.

His fingers that had been drumming upon the club suddenly wrap around the handle, clenched in anger. His knuckles turn white as the man waves his hand in front of Cadogan's face. The water is the final straw and while Maeko and Nicos are restrained Cadrius is not. The three burly men turn and walk away two laughing and clapping their hands on Water Thrower's back.

"Excuse me a moment," he says, rising to his feet and crossing the room.

A cold anger sweeps into the fallen paladin like a gust of winter wind through an open window. He gently places a hand on a nearby barmaid, moving her aside as he strides across the room and out the front door. He is unarmed, save for the dagger in his belt. The massive club would only have served to turn what might be a peacable encounter into a violent one. However going outside alone against three men might end up violent anyway.

His breath comes out in slow gouts of steam as he steps outside into the night air. He makes out the dim forms of the three men only fifty paces ahead of him. Cadrius lengthens his stride as he attempts to overtake them.

The three men take a leisurely route, making lewd references about barmaids at the inn and exchanging crude jokes in vain attempts at humor. Cadrius' lip curls in disgust. They owe Cadogan an apology and he is out to make sure that he gets it.

He comes around the corner and sees them only a short distance ahead. This street is smaller and almost totally devoid of other travelers. The night is overcast but still cold and the crisp smell of fall fills Cadrius' nose.

"Excuse me," he says in a flat voice. The men continue on their way, speaking their rough speech.

"Excuse me," he says again, louder this time with a trace of anger threaded through his bass voice.

The men cease their laughing and turn around. Their eyes assessing Cadrius before he can speak again.

"What're you? A practice dummy?" one asks, the dried blood readily apparent on Cadrius' clothing and skin. The other two chuckle at the remark.

"You insulted a friend of mine back there," he says, "you owe him an apology."

"What? Yer friends with that sorceriousss one? Bugger off," Water Thrower says and is met with grunts of approval from his cronies.

Cadrius walks forward until he's face to face with the men.

"Whether you like him or not matters little to me, but what you did was unacceptable. Come back and apologize...now."

Water Thrower responds by puffing up his chest and jabbing one finger at Cadrius.

"Ah said bugger off or we'll make yer night miserable," says Water Thrower, the grunts come again only louder and full of malice.

"Last chance," Cadrius whispers, a jet of steam comes out of his mouth as he keeps his breathing under rigid control.

The cronies exchange a look of nervousness between each other but this goes by unnoticed by Water Thrower. He shoves Cadrius with both his arms, driving the fallen paladin back several steps.

"That's it, yer in fer a worl' o' hurt," he says advancing menacingly. His two lackies hesitate a moment before following suit.

"Fine by me," Cadrius says with a grin that's devoid of mirth.

Water Thrower balls his fists and throws a clumsy roundhouse at Cadrius. He ducks to the side and launches a counter attack. His fist slams into the man's stomach, knocking the wind out of Water Thrower and dropping him to his knees.

The other two's momentary caution is dispelled and they both rush Cadrius swinging. He dodges the first and pushes the man roughly to the side, but this momentary action costs him. The second man connects with Cadrius' face, hitting him in the eye. His head snaps to the side under the force of the blow. He turns and lashes out with his fist, striking the man in the side of the temple and dropping him to the ground.

Cadrius turns again looking for Water Thrower when the other lackey grabs him from behind, his arms entwining Cadrius' before locking themselves behind his neck. Cadrius struggles but is held in place as Water Thrower gets to his feet and punches him in the stomach.

Pain explodes in his midsection as he suddenly finds himself breathless. Anger instantly flares up and envelopes his hurt, turning it into fuel for the fire of rage. He slams one elbow into the man's stomach. His leg snaps forward and it catches Water Thrower in the groin, causing him to groan and drop to the ground.

I am not one of them anymore, I do not have to play fair.

He moves forward again, kicking Water Thrower in the stomach. The man rolls with the kick and curls up into a ball. The sound of a blade being drawn keeps Cadrius from following with another brutal kick.

He spins around to see both of the lackeys on their feet with long knives in their hands. His hand flies to the dagger at his belt and answers in kind and holds the blade point down in front of his body with his left arm drawn back in a fist. He inclines his head once, signaling them to come.

They rush in again in the same manner as before. The first one swinging high and missing. The second one thrusts, aiming for Cadrius' midsection. He twists his body and grabs the man's forarm with his left hand as he jams his dagger into his throat. The man gurgles once as he falls to the ground, his lifesblood pouring out of him.

The other stares in shock at his fallen friend and hesitates for a moment. Cadrius does not, he launches a number of brutal slashes that causes the man to backpedal parrying frantically. Cadrius feints to the left and the man falls for it. He brings his dagger up short and drives it into the man's stomach, twisting it once before yanking it out and letting the man drop to the ground.

His breath is coming in and out rapidly, his muscles twitch and flex as adrenaline flow through them. He spins about to see Water Thrower getting to his feet and beginning to run away.

Cadrius sprints after him down a nearby alley. Water Thrower gasps for air as he flees down the alley, the fallen paladin mere steps behind him.

"Please," he begs as he runs, "mercy!"

But there is none in Cadrius as he launches himself the final few feet between him and the man. His arms encircle Water Thrower and they come down in a heap. They struggle briefly but Cadrius overpowers the man and draws the dagger in one quick, neat sweep across the man's throat.

Water Thrower's eyes widen in surprise and terror. He gasps for breath and attempts to speak, but finds no voice. Cadrius gets to his feet and looks down at the man, his face an expression of melancholy.

"I am sorry for what we have both done," he says, his only apology for his actions, but he does take the man's hand and sits with him while he dies. He might be a uncouth and ignorant man, but he does not deserve to die alone in an alley. Cadrius stays long after the light has died in the man's eyes and still clasps his hand. The other hand reaches foreward and closes Water Thrower's eyelids. With a long and ragged sigh he pulls two copper pieces and places them over the dead man's eyes.

He wipes the blood from his blade but does not clean his hands. Chances are it wouldn't come off even if he tried.

He stands and slowly walks back to the inn, the wounds from the previous days suddenly voicing themselves again. He could already feel one eye puffing up from where he had been hit. Was it worth it? To take three lives over a minor offense? No, they had threatened the blind man and Cadrius would not let another under his protection fall due to his own carelessness.

Again the inn seems offensive as he enters it, like it has an overabundance of vitality. He frowns and drops five gold pieces on the counter in front of the barkeeper before stooping to grab backpack and club, and heading up the stairs. He does not speak to the rest of the party, does not explain his black eye, and does not try to hide the blood caked on his hands.



The room is dark and quiet, away from the majority of the inn's bustle. Cadrius welcomes the gentle lamp and cherishes his relative seclusion. The room is a spacious one, and it very well should be for the amount he had given. A maid raps gently on his door, asking if there is anything that he needs. He has warm water brought up for his bath and a mirror and razor to shave with.

A few minutes later he is relaxing amidst the scented water holding a razor in one hand and the mirror in the other. He does not wince as the razor causes a shallow cut on his neck but instead watches, fascinated, as the blood trickles down his throat, across his chest and then dispersing into the water.

It takes some time for the blood to leave his hands.

[SponkleofInfini]

The elf Laronar watches on shockingly at the encounter with the 3 uncouth's and the blindman sitting at the table with Nicos and his new prospect.

The burly man seated with the group rises from his seat and follows the trio out of the Inn. A scowl on his face and a look that would make a lion cower.

Hmm.......this will not end well; for either company I would imagine.

Laronar makes his way up to the bar to where Nicos stands ordering dinner.

"Nicos be careful, if that man should return he shall have no patience for you. I doubt things will end peacebly with that man and the trio of roughians."

Laronar seats himself next to Nicos on a wooden stool by the well lit bar. A look of concern upon his face Laronar, slouching over the wooden bar. It would not have been five minutes before the man who pursued the trio returned to the Inn. Hands bloodied he paces off upstairs in deep thought, a look of concern riddled his face. Making no attempt to talk to his companions who now sit puzzled, silent, and wondering what to do now.

"There is a seat at my table if you wish to join my Nicos, perhaps they would rather be alone for the remainder of the evening."

Placing his hand upon Nicos shoulder Laronar lingers at the bar for a while.

[LonePaladin]

The past few days had been little more than a blur for the paladin. Flight from the priest's magically-endowed bloodhounds, taking trails through the forest that he only knew because of a less-than-honorable childhood. Frenzied, panicked battle against foes whose motives were unknown to him. A funeral pyre built for one whom he had made a vow to protect. Two full days of weary, exhausted trudging through the last vestige of the woods, with very little in the way of supplies. All to arrive at a smelly, noisy, damp beer-hall in a small, walled-in village that probably didn't even have a mark on most travelers' maps.

He had no money, no skills that could command a wage apart from unskilled, manual labor, and only one weapon for self-defense: the warhammer he'd stolen off the gate-guard when he'd fled the city.

He'd paid little attention to their surroundings on the journey into the village. He'd practically ignored everyone else in the group, except to note their comings and goings. Somehow, he'd even managed to get past the militia guarding the town's gate without having to provide them with a name. Not that he had one to claim, nor could he have given one if prompted.

He was too busy.

During the funeral for the fallen, love-struck minstrel, his Sight had spontaneously manifested, washing everything in his vision with a faint, red haze. It had taken every ounce of willpower to simply go through the motions of traveling with the others. The Sight made it difficult to make out details when he willed it to come forth; now that it was active on its own, it was all he could do to focus on anything else.

He could never explain the Sight to someone who had not experienced it firsthand. It would be like trying to tell Cadogan, the blind wizard, what it would be like to read a book. He'd tried to explain it once before, and gave up in frustration; he had no frame of reference. There was no way to accurately convey what the Sight told him.

During the trek out of the woods, the Sight showed him where the animals routinely hunted, and what areas they had marked as their territory. When they got to the palisade wall surrounding the village, all he saw was a barricade of willpower, extending well above the confines of the wooden barrier. The guards exuded purpose, and the potential for violence in the name of defense.

The taproom spoke volumes to the paladin's Sight, and he did not like what it had to say. This was not some festhall, where people gathered to send the day off with a fond farewell, enjoying the company of people they genuinely wished the best of. No, this building was something far worse. People gathered here, naturally, but their intentions were different: they joined together to plan thefts, or murder, or revenge. They wandered around the establishment, seeking people to prey on. Some simply watched the goings-on, keeping tabs on someone for the amusement -- or protection -- of someone else.

In the background of the paladin's mind, he registered the normal sights and smells...

The watery vegetable stew the barmaid put in front of him and the gobbet of spit the cook had placed in the stew an hour previously, which somehow made its way mostly into the bowl in front of him.

The way the barmaid lingered for a moment, giving the paladin an appraising glance looking for loosely-held coins, or a belt-pouch that could be removed while providing a distraction.

The three men at the table at his right, discussing something about expanding the lumberyard and in secret code-phrases and gestures over the cards, planning on the theft of a local merchant's vacation home.

The trio of thugs who came boldly up to the table, threatening the blind wizard and planning on bribing the innkeeper to learn which room he rents, so that they can slip into his room near dawn and murder him while he sleeps.

The fallen paladin, always a beacon in his Sight before, seemed to have blended in with the general air of the establishment -- until he came in from the outside, having followed the three thugs. To the paladin's surprise, the haze of malice and ill-intent seems to have lifted somewhat from Cadrius when he returned, almost as if he had atoned somewhat.

The change in Cadrius's aura does nothing to shake the paladin from his apparent reverie. He simply sits at the table throughout the conversations, watching everything somewhat blankly and failing to notice casual attempts to gain his attention.

[Cadogan Trahem]

As Cadrius enters the Inn a black bird flutters past him and in the door way. A Quick glance confirms Cadrius' thoughts as the Bird flies straight for Cadogan and lands on the mans shoulder.

The bird burrying its beak behind Cadogan's ear, and suddenly the blindman looks deeply saddend but does nothing but stroke his bird and give it a crumb of bread as a reward for a job well done.

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

"I believe I will retire early." Cadogan speaks to Miss Maeko, the women notices Cadogan is upset and displeased with something. "There is no need to help me." He stands and moves slowly towards where he remembered the Bar to be, arriving some 30 seconds later at the short walk across the room. He speaks to the man behind the counter before digging into his pouch. Feeling the weight and size of several coins he finally places 5 gold pieces on the counter and is given a key before being shown up the stairs and giving a little shove down the hallway towards the rooms where he continues to walk by himself suprisingly well - untill he nearly walks into a low beam, if Shirvel wasn't there the man surely would have crowned himself.

[itches]

Arriving at the bar, Nicos leans over and alls the attention of the bar keep.

"Shamus, the group over there. Add their meal to my Tab, send them over some of the side of the beef you have cooking, some of the vegetable stew, and one of the loafs. That ought to be enough. Oh and send over two pitches, one of ale, the other fruit juice."

Contemplating how much this meal is going to cost him, Nicos quickly shakes off such thoughts.

Something tells me they carry many tales with them, and the price for such a thing is well above that of one meal

His musings are interrupted by a semi-familiar figure, the elf that interrupted him before when he first approached Maeko.

Switching to Elvan he answers the stranger.

"I know you not elf, and I care not for your constant interrupting of matters that do not concern you."

Looking past his Elvan head, Nicos sees Cadirus leaving the Inn, and drops back to common.

"Now if you excuse me, I have a show to perform"

Moving over to where there is a clear corner set apart for his performance, Nicos begins tapping his foot in a rhythm. Once this has gone on for a count of ten, he starts singing softly in Elven, a song about how two lovers, over came incredible odds to be together, but just as it seems that will live happily-ever-after, tragedy strikes, and one of them is struck down by a random accident. As the song lowers to a half, it speaks of how it became promised that they will become re-united again, and the still living lover awaits that day forever.

Finishing his song, Nicos looks about the room; pleased with the result he has wrought. Very few of the room’s occupants speak Elvish, but even those who don’t were touched but the song in some small way, though most do well at hiding it behind a show of gruffness or ignoring him.

((Creative licence for the crowds reaction, and a result over 20 ;) ))

[SponkleofInfini]

Why does no one wish to talk to me, it is as if they try to avoid me. Why though, I am not rude, cruel, overbearing or arrogant. Hmm......fine.

Laronar pays his bill and heads outside with a look of disdain. Bottle of wine in hand, Laronar walks the down the street amost inhaling the drink; taking a huge mouthful, whiping the excess from his jaw. Laronar heads down the street showing obvious signs of intoxication. Turning the corner Laronar stumbles upon a grizzely display.

Two bodies lay bloodied, a hint of another around the next corner.

The 3 low lifes that insulted the blind man.............the man with the bloodied hands...............did he do ths?

Laronar drops the bottle of wine, hitting the ground with a dull thud. Laronar falls to his knees looking at the corpses, contemplating what could have happened.

The insult delt to the blind man did not deserve such a punishment, regardless of its severity. Or could this have been a run of the mill mugging gone awry? That man could have just stumbled upon the bodies afterwoods.........unlikely though.

Continuing to stare blankly in contemplation, the shine of torches can be seen radiating off the wall near-by.

"The guard....."

Laronar lumbering to his feat attempts to run but fumbles, falling near one of the deceased. Covered in dirt Laronar makes a swecond attempt at escape before the guard discover the ghastly scene. This time making it around the next corner, hiding behind the stone wall just in time not to be discovered by the guard. Laronar looks down by his feat, the third corpse, the leader of the trio. His death looked most gruesome, a large pool of blood surrounding the body. Horror overwhlems Laronar as whinces before heading off speadilly down the lane.

The echo of yelling can be heard far behind him, as the guards discover the gruesome scene. Laronar dares not look back, he makes his way back to the bar via back avenues.

Edging his way along the wall to the side of the Inn Laronar is sure to make noise as to not be discovered. Guards rush by, making great haste towards the crime scene. Laronar slips back into the bar stealthly, the light shines bright blinding him momentarily. He is pale, as if he had seen a ghost, beads of sweat run down his forehead, eyes aghast.

Laronar heads up stairs, making sure to slip the barkeep 5 gold for the room.

[Gralhruk]

Her back to the wall, Shade watches her companions and this night's patrons through narrowly slitted eyes. The entertainer Nicos seemed an honest sort of rogue. The other one, Laronar, almost gets a smile from her as he stalks away from Cadrius' dismissal.

Any mirth quickly drains away as Cadogan speaks; magic was something she learned to respect but never trust. She lets the legs of her chair drop to the floor and rests her hands on the hilts of her blades as the three bullies come forward, but thugs like that were too stupid to take the warning. When Cadrius follows them out she waits for three heartbeats, then rises and moves to the bar.

Yell if you bite off more than you can chew.

She orders a strong Cordavan stirh and, with two of her bright silver coins, asks the bartender to leave her the half-filled bottle. She takes a healthy swallow and feels the potent alcohol burn it's way down her throat. It promptly starts a warm glow in her stomach and as a second drink finds its way to its new home, she watches Nicos take the stage. His song inevitably reminds her of Itches and his betrothed and her mouth twists bitterly.

She watches Laronar, two seats down, as his eyes flicker between Nicos and the door. After the song he gets up, takes his bottle of wine, and heads out the door. He looks like a man ready to get drunk, and she almost grabs his shoulder as he walks by. She could use a drinking partner right about now. Something in his eyes, though, makes her think he's looking for trouble and she didn't feel like any trouble tonight.

Her fingertips are starting to numb; a combination of strong drink and an empty stomach, and she puts her back to the bar and looks at her companions. Maeko, Cadogan, and Paladin all rest at their table, steaming food even now arriving. Paladin has been awfully quiet of late, not that she minds. He made her uneasy, especially now that he'd gone so quiet; there was something in his eyes that made her think he could see right through her.

She calls the bartender over and confers about a room and a bath. Pulling out five coins, she hands them over and heads upstairs, bottle in tow. Outside in an alley, two men are dead and two men are slowly dying, though in different ways.

[itches]

Watching as his crown thins out, some leaving to make their way home, others upstairs, and yet others to find other entertainments , Nicos considers what to do next.

In a sparse environment like this, perhaps a more personal approach is necessary

Muttering under his breath, Nicos casts a simple catrip, then descends and mixes with the people.

Performing many simple "magic" tricks, such as making a coin appear out of someone's ear, or taking his thumb apart, the Bard works his way around the room, talking and joking with the people as much as amazing them with his tricks. With a slight concentration, the Bard, makes puffs of smoke and the like appear to enhance his performance.

Slowly, as the night wears on, he makes he way around to the table now occupied by Paladin and Maeko.

[Gralhruk]

The room Shade finds herself in is large for an inn, with it's own copper tub already filled with steaming water. Putting her bottle down on the rough wooden table, she takes a moment to examine her surroundings. The bed was covered with a straw pallet but that was fresh and relatively comfortable. A large chest sat at the bed's foot and was stocked with towels, cleansing sand, soap and other essentials. An empty armoire of sturdy, if plain, craftsmanship was obviously intended for her own things. There was nothing else remarkable in the room; its single window was shuttered and barred. All and all it was a comfortable if plain lodging.

She dims the lantern until it is but an ember in the dark and lights a couple of candles instead, her gaze lingering on the window beside the sconce. Old habits did not die easily; she unbars it, letting a cold wind wash in, and stares at the street below. Darkness, broken by the streamers of light from the few establishments still open. The alley below her opened on both ends and the building itself didn't look to be a difficult climb. Good for escape, should the need arise, but just as easy for someone to enter. Frowning, she closes and bars the shutters once more, stripping her armor and clothing as she makes her way back to the bottle. She snatches it up and, making sure the leave her swords within easy reach, climbs into the tub.

She sinks down, immersed in the steaming water, letting the heat soak into her. Her mind drifts, partly from weariness, partly from the warmth, partly from the strong drink. Shadows from the candles flicker and dance on the walls and her half closed eyes fancy they can see rough shapes there; gnolls they looked like to her. They roll, then, like a wave and a wall of cold air hits her at the same time, causing her skin to prickle. She leaps up, shedding water, and scans the room but everything looks normal. After a long minute the cold begins to dissipate and she starts to feel rather foolish. Taking another drink from the bottle she is now brandishing, she settles back in the tub and starts the difficult process of scrubbing a week's worth of dirt and blood from her body.

[Maeko]

People start leaving, either for their rooms or their homes, or other sorts of 'entertainements', judging from the comments of some.

Maeko sits besides a thoughtful Paladin, quietly studying the inn; for all its 'alieness' it shares a common athmosphere with every inn she has ever seen.

...as if I was an abitual costumer... thinks the nun, inwardly smiling at her own thoughts.

Her mind is drifting a bit, with the haziness of a full stomach and weariness when she notices Nicos approaching the table

[LonePaladin]

The paladin notes the approaching minstrel, mainly because his aura appears different than the environment, allowing him to stand out against the background. A slight haze surrounds the bard, speaking of an ulterior motive that simply hasn't yet germinated into fully-realized intent.

He dare not leave the unusual priestess alone with this man, or with nearly anyone else in the bar for that matter; she was one of the few who didn't register in his Sight.

The constant barrage of information, still new to him and somewhat disorienting, was beginning to give him a headache. Squinting his eyes shut didn't help block out the Sight, but the removal of normal visual input did make it somewhat bearable.

Thus, unbeknownst to the minstrel or the monk, was the paladin not exactly in the most cordial mood for visitors.

His mood, if not his reasoning, becomes apparent as soon as the minstrel is within range of hearing. Eyes closed tight, and with his hands on his temples, he says -- rather brusquely -- just one word of address.

"What?!"

[itches]

Making his way over to the last table in the room, Nicos idly flips a coin across his knuckles. As he reaches the table, the Paladins sharp question catches the normal flippant Bard off guard.

"I ... ahh..." Suddenly coming to a halt, Nicos drops the coin he was toying with. Leaning down to pick it up, he looks upon the table once again, this time with out the shock.

"I am assuming that you ask why I approached your table," Nicos replies with an arched eyebrow. Not waiting for a reply, he continues.

"I in-fact have 3 reasons or being here. First and simplest, I wish to discover if the food was to your satisfaction. Second, I was going to offer my talents for some entertainment, which I now doubt will be accepted. Third and finally, I was wondering if I could steal some of your companions time."

With this Nicos shifts his attention away from Paladin and to Maeko

"You have the look of someone who just came off the road, and no doubt you are tired, but the night is yet young."

[Maeko]

Somehow disturbed by Paladin's reaction, might he be unwell?, Maeko adresses her calm smile to the entertainer.

" Please, excuse my companion, we have long and weary road behind us.
I am in debt. Food was truly excellent.
Also, I promised to speak with you before retiring, I was waiting for you to finish performing...Your 'art' is very interesting".

How fitting...a former brother entertaining people with illusions: who knows if this could bring a glimpse of the thruth to the uninitiated?

[itches]

"My dear lady, there is nothing to excuse, nor is there any debt"
Bowing slightly to Paladin

" Sir if I have done anything to give you offence, I beg your pardon."

Rising from he bow, with what appears to be his ever-ready smile, Nicos flips the coin around in his hand, and with a flash, it disappears.

"These? No these are not the arts of a Bard. These are party tricks, simple and yet likely to entertain those who are less imaginative, or just too tired to care."

Holding his hand out so that it is clear it is empty, he then reaches forwards slowly so that it is clear he means no threat. Reaching his hand to just by her ear, he makes a motion with his hand, and draws it back holding the coin. With a sigh and his smile fading, Nicos shoves it into a pocket.

"The true arts of a bard are in the music. There have been great performances where they meld instrument, voice into a music it so smooth that it is like liquid silk."

Grinning again he holds out his arm.

" I however have been reduced to singing only"

Glancing over his shoulder at the small amount of people left, Nicos give a small sigh.

"I think a good way to end the evenings entertainment would be a tale. If you excuse me this will take me a few minutes to prepare for."

With a small nod of his head, Nicos moves back to the corner set aside for performing.

[Gralhruk]

Later, she sits at the table cleaner than she's been in months and at the same time more polluted. There is only a finger or two left in her bottle and she feels the warmth and tingle of drink in the skin of her face. Instead of her concealing cloak she wears only a simple linen shift, unbelted; the only clean piece of clothing she owns. Her grey eyes are softer than they've been as she stares into the mirror that sits across from at the table, leaning against the wall. The white scar beneath her eyes almost glows against her dusky skin in the light of a single candle.

She looks small and almost vulnerable, the lethal blades hanging from the back of her chair are a striking contrast to her demeanor. Her feet are tucked up against her, arms resting on her knees. The focus of her eyes shifts from the mirror to the small silver pendant dangling from her hands.

Who am I?

It was a simple question to which there was no simple answer. She had run from the life fate had doled out to her; she just wasn't cut out to be anybody's housewife, least of all some baker in her own small home village. She had run from that and, being the youngest in a large and less than prosperous family, she doubted anybody had really missed her though they probably missed the coin they would have gotten for her. Trouble. That's what she had always been; and lazy too, if her mother's word was to be given any weight, always looking for the easy way out.

Her gaze shifts again, and suddenly hard eyes stare back at her from the mirror. The life she had found was far harder than anything she had ever imagined. She'd never be mistaken for a wife or somebody's mother but she'd never be powerless either, or at another's mercy. She did what she wanted, with nobody to tell her otherwise. She had power; power over herself, the power of life and death over others. She could come and go without a trace, take what others protected, find what they tried to hide.

A shadow, but a shadow with teeth.

Light catches the silver of the pendant; the depiction of Hieronous is edged in flame and engraved with darkness. Half mesmerized as it slowly spins, she wonders why she kept it. She had no use for gods, or even for charms. She made her own luck, and her actions were in her name not anybody else's. True, it might fetch a coin or two if sold, but it wasn't for sale. It meant nothing to her and at the same time it meant more than the sack of coins lying next to her bed.

A dream, is all, the rememberance of a dream.

[LonePaladin]

A red haze over everything.

The Sight tries to blot out everything else, trying its best to obscure his vision, revealing deceit, treachery, cruelty, and malice. The only reason anything else is visible is so that the Sight can put everything into context.

His headache is getting worse.

Thoroughly frustrated, disgusted at the things the Sight has revealed to him, and confused -- why, by all the gods that are good and righteous, won't this power lay quiet? -- the paladin drags himself away from the table. Very slowly, he weaves through the crowd, making his way to the stairs, and a place to sleep.

He has a key, but cannot make out the markings on it through the haze. Very slowly, and very carefully, he tries the key on each door that he comes to.

On his third attempt -- another failure -- the door flies open, revealing a heavy-set half-orc with one eye. He looks down on the intruder waiting for an excuse to pull the man's arm off and says, "What's this about?"

The paladin looks up and says, "I'm trying to find my room. Go back to your business." Something in the paladin's look convinces the half-orc to back down and close the door.

It takes the paladin several more attempts to find the correct door, near the end of the hall. The room is sparsely furnished -- little more than a bed -- but the details are lost in a red mist. Uncaring, the paladin slowly removes his armor, sets everything on the floor at the foot of the bed, and lies down, draping one arm over his eyes in an attempt to block out the incessant input.

It helps, somewhat. Nothing above him has any ill-intent, so he simply gets the overall malice of the site.

As he gradually manages to fall asleep, mostly from exhaustion, he fails to realize that his door is still wide open.

[Black Plauge]

"Who was at the door Trak?" Blarth asks as the door slams back on its frame.

"Some armor wearing freak who couldn't find his room. He looked drunker than hell and is probably going to have one hell of a headache in the morning."

"Brother, if he looks that bad surely some or your magics could help him."

"Not if I can help it. The powers of Gruumsh should be reserved for war, not to help a pitiful human who can't hold his liquor. Now, brother, you may play good samaritan if you want but I intend to go get drunker than that guy was, and you won't find me fumbling with my key."

With that Trak opened the door again and slammed it on his way out leaving Blarth alone in the room unsure of what to do next.

Some one really ought to go help that man. I don't know that anything I can do would help though. Getting up and going to the door Blarth continues to muse as he looks up and down the hall. Just because some one isn't like you doesn't mean you shouldn't help them. Trak may look like a full orc, but he isn't anymore than I am. His devotion to Gruumsh is admirable though. I wish I could find faith in something like that.

Hey... There's a door open down near the end of the hall. I wonder if that man who attempt to open our door forgot to close his. No one seems to be coming out of the room. Maybe I will just go close his door for him."

Still ruminating Blarth begins to head for the open door when Trak comes back up the stairs from the common room drink in hand.

"Hey, where are you going leaving our door open? You want people to steal all my stuff?"

"No, Trak," replies Blarth meekly, "I was just going to close the door down there for who ever left it open."

"By the eye of Gruumsh, you are a simple one aren't you? Did it even occur to you that the door might be open for a reason?"

"Not really. I just noticed that no one was going in or out of the room and thought I would close it as a favor to its occupants."

"You and your human sentiments. Its a good thing I forgot my coin purse. I swear if it wasn't for me you would have been a simple farmer. Now get back in this room and polish my armor."

Blarth winces at the mention of the word "farmer." That was certianly no profession for an orc. Then again neither was polishing armor but if thats what Trak wanted...

As he passed Trak, Blarth ducks out of habit to avoid the slap that Trak is sure to deliver. Sure enough it comes, and sure enough Blarth didn't duck low enough and ends up taking the smack on his crown.

Picking up his coin purse Trak stares at Blarth and says, "I am going out. The booze in this place is weaker than pigs' swill. You stay here until morning." With that Trak turns and leaves the room, again slamming the door on his way out.

Blarth sighs and begins to pick up the armor and a rag to begin polishing. Trak is always so bossy. Why can't he just leave me alone. He thinks he can order me around because he is bigger, smarter, and older than me. He knows damn well if it wasn't for me pulling that roof timber off him he would have died in that fire last year. He is lucky he only lost one eye. Sign of Gruumsh indeed.

As he sits there his grip on the greave he is pollishing tightens with each passing moment. Finally the greave can't take the pressure anymore and it bends. Oh, great now Trak is going to make me buy him a whole new set of armor. I better see about getting this fixed before he comes back.

Hey... That door is still open. I really ought to close it before someone gets any ideas.

Careful to look down the stairs for any sign of Trak first, Blarth heads for the open door at the end of the hallway and looks in. As he reaches inside to grab the door he sees the occupant sprawled on the bed with his arm drapped over his arm. Poor guy certianly looks like he's had a long night. Must be the same guy who tried our door earlier. Hey... This guy has the same kind of armor as Trak. Maybe.. If I just.. He wouldn't notice if..

As he steps towards the armor at the foot of the bed Blarth hesitates unsure of what to do. A moan from the figure on the bed makes up his mind for him and he quickly begins scanning the pile for the identical greave to the one he has in his hand. Spotting it under the breastplate, Blarth reaches for it and in his haste manages to disturb the enitre pile which falls apart with a noisy rattle. Blarth freezes and looks over at the bed.

[LonePaladin]

Thanks to the incessant input of the Sight, the paladin was aware of the intruder. Nothing registered beyond the presence of the being, so the paladin knew that no harm was intended.

If my sleep is restless, at least it will be safe. No chance of someone sneaking up on me.

Without moving his arm away from his face, he simply says, "Take it. Just leave the part you're trading it for; I'll get it fixed." He doesn't bother explaining how he knew.

[SponkleofInfini]

What is that? Is someone trying to get into the room?

Laronar can hear a fumbling at the door, only for a couple of seconds. Nonetheless Laronar investigates, seeing a very disoriented man clad in armour enter a room down the hall.

Wasn't that the man who was with the newcommers

Not lingering on the thought, Laronar's head once again begins to ache.

Better sits down for a bit, that wine isn't treating me well

Laronar makes his way back to the bed, a tad firmer then what he is used to but is satisfactory nonetheless. Sprawling out, making himself comfortable Laronar tries to sleep.

[Black Plauge]

Shocked that the man on the bed knew what he was doing without moving, Blarth just stares for a moment.

How can he know what I was doing? I mean the noise made it obvious I was disturbing his armor, but how did he know I was going to exchange a damaged peice for a good one? Oh, well, at least he said it was alright.

Shrugging to himself Blarth picks up the undamaged greave and leaves the bent one in its place. As he leaves he hesitates at the door glancing back at the occupant. Shrugging again he closes the door and heads back to the room he and his brother occupy where he resumes polishing the armor. It is late when he finishes and Trak still hasn't returned. Blarth falls asleep waiting for his bother to come in.

[Cadrius]

He closes his eyes, his cleansing complete, for now anyway. Cadrius tilts his head back and rests it against the edge of the bathtub. There is a faint odor associated with the water, the maids must have put some sort of bath salt into it. He lets the warmth of the water seep into his bones.

After an hour he pulls himself from his temporary solace and collapses on his bed and is fast asleep, the sins from the evening put on hold until the morning.

[Cadogan Trahem]

As morning drifts in, the group awakens and slowly, one by one, eventually decend downstairs. (feel free to add anything before or after or change this all together.)

All except Cadogan, a quick investigation by those who are worried shows that his room is empty. And inquiries reveal that he was eating breakfast with a strange elven character who's description reminds Cadrius of the man who tried to join the table last night. Shortly after they had finished a shadowy figure approched spoke with the man and left with them.

<OOC: Cadogan and Laronar's tale continues in Subchapter 4a - Crypts and Orcs (http://www.online-roleplaying.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=1080).>

[Black Plauge]

With dawn the sunrise streams in Blarth's window and wakes him early. Groggily he rouses himself and wonders why his brother didn't close the curtians when he came in. Normally, Trak is quite good about that. He must have been really drunk to leave the curtians open. I had better close them before the sunlight wakes him up too. He is always in a foul mood when woken early. ... There thats better. Now he won't be...

"By the eye of Gruumsh, Trak's not here!"

Panicy, Blarth quickly begins to check the room for Trak, looking under and in all the furniture. After a thurough search reveals that Trak is not in the room he rushes down the stairs in time to see a blind man and an elf leave with one of the merchants he had met yesterday in the market. Looking around he spots the innkeeper behind the bar cleaning the mugs from last night. Blarth hurries over and blurts out, "Excuse me sir, have you seen my brother since last night? He went out drinking and never came back. That isn't like him. No matter how drunk he is he always comes back so that he can sleep in a bed. He hates sleeping..."

"Hold on there now, not so fast. You say your brother didn't come back last night? Well I take no responsibility for my guests as long as they pay for the room I don't care if they actually use it or not. However, I do remember seeing him go out last night. He seemed intent on something. Haven't seen him since though."

Thanking the innkeeper, Blarth rushes outside to look for his brother. As he searches the streets for his brother, Blarth comes upon a large crowd gathered around the entrace to an alley. Approaching Blarth notices blood stains on the ground and hears the people murmuring among themselves.

"Three of our own boys..."

"... killed on their way home, they were..."

"... mother noticed them missing this morning..."

"... guards found the bodies around midnight they say..."

"... orcs..."

"... caught the one who did it though. Got him locked up at the garrison..."

One of the crowd notices Blarth and nudges her neighbor. A hush slowly decends on the crowd as each member is in turn made aware of Blarth's precense. Realizing that every one is staring at him Blarth suddenly becomes nervous and lowers his gaze. He turns to go when a rock flies at him and bounces off the air near his head.

"MURDERER!" one of the crowd shouts, "YOUR KIND ARE ALL ALIKE. KILLING FOR THE SAKE OF KILLING! GET OUT OF TOWN YOU SAVAGE!"

Soon everyone in the crowd has begun yelling at Blarth and he begins to move off faster. The crowd follows and soon more rocks are flying through the air at Blarth. Most seem to slow or bounce before actually reaching him but some to hit. Blarth begins to run, fearful of what might happen. When the crowd persues he panics and takes a full out sprint to the only place he can think of, the inn.

He easily outstrips the crowd and has lost them within seconds but he doesn't slow down until he reaches the inn where he slams the door behind him and leans back up against it. He stands there breathing heavily for a moment as all eyes in the common room focus on him.

[Cadrius]

It is shortly before dawn when Cadrius awakens, his eyes slowly opening and adjusting to the darkness of his room. A chill breeze slips through a nearby window and causes goosebumps to rise and dance across his skin. He exhales once, seeing his breath, and rises to the window closing it firmly with one hand.

He remains standing gazing out at the border town. He looks into the darkness and for a moment he knows what it is like to be dead: the coldness, the emptiness. He shudders, he figures he'll die soon enough, but for now he still draws breath.

There is a faint murmer of conversation as the door to the inn is opened and several figures emerge into the approaching dawn. The first glimmer of orange light can now be seen on the horizon and Cadrius makes out the form of Cadogan and the elf, Laronar, moving outside. He clenches the frame of the window as a shadowy figure approaches the pair, but it doesn't seem to carry any malice with it. Again the fallen paladin wishes he still had the Sight. He shakes his head and moves to his backpack. Let the blind man do as he would. Cadrius had already killed three men, he would not cause any more trouble. Not if he could help it anyway.

He casually tosses the packpack on his bed and stretches, attempting to loosen his muscles after his sleep. His eyes roam across his wounds, now on the mend he would be as good as new in a matter of days. Some scars would remain, but apart from that he would be more or less intact. Until the next encounter with a murderous beast anyway.

Equipment is tossed aside as he empties the backpack out on the unmade bed. His waterskin takes an odd bounce and lands on the floor. He leaves it. A small pile of coins spills out and he quickly sorts them into their corresponding piles before counting them. Some silver, some copper, over five score gold, and a couple of precious platinum. He glances over at the club in the corner, perhaps that could fetch him a good price too. Whoever made that had clearly done an exceptional job.

The coins are quickly gathered back up and placed again in the backpack. The hilt of the blade joins them with a slight clank and Cadrius slips downstairs, the club slung over one shoulder with the backpack over the other.

He slips back into his worn clothing looking very much the part of a weary commoner and slips down the stairs to breakfast.

* * * * *

There are more people moving about as he makes his way through town. He looks for the nearest blacksmith but it is sometime before he is able to find it. However as he wanders, his feet seem to have their own agenda for soon he is standing alongside a gathering crowd. Faint blood stains mark the ground where two men died.

He remains silent as he listens to the voices of the crowd, lamenting the loss of three of their own. There's talk of how hardworking they were, how good they had been, how their mothers missed them, and how their wives cried. A stone block of guilt firmly settles upon Cadrius' shoulders and they slump slightly.

"... caught the one who did it though. Got him locked up at the garrison..."

His eyes light up dangerously as he hears they had already caught the killer. Who is it? Who would be punished for his actions? Cadrius doesn't have the time to ask as the crowd suddenly turns against a young man. He's being ostracized by the crowd, why? There's something odd about him but Cadrius isn't able to put his finger on it until the man flees from a potential stoning. Orcish blood.

Had an orc been in town? A convenient enough subject, or had it merely been an unfortunate soul like the one currently fleeing. Someone who could not control what blood flowed through their veins and was punished for it. The weight on his shoulders grows heavier.

The crowd moves one way and he trudges another hoping that the youth gets away but unwilling to stand against the mob. He slumps into a smith's shop and approaches a large, bald man who seems happier by a forge than behind a counter.

"What can I do fer ya, lad?" He rumbles to Cadrius.

His eyes are still frought with guilt and pain but he manages to make his intentions clear: he's looking to see if the club is valuable as well as armor and potentially a custom job, forging a new blade for his sword.

The smith's brow furrows as he examines the club. He hefts it with both hands, testing its weight and swing before turning to the broken blade and hilt. He traces his finger of the symbol and Cadrius winces.

"I think I could do it fer ya," he says at last, scribbling down Cadrius' order in a language only the smith can comprehend.

"It won't be cheap," he ads, looking up from the dirty piece of parchment.

Cadrius nods wearily and asks, "And the club?"

The smith's brow furrows again as his hand strays to it.

"I like it, I'll tell ya that much," he says before turning his eyes back to the fallen paladin, "ye look like ye could use some protection lad. Tell ya what, I'll make ye an even trade, this club for some armor."

Cadrius shrugs and nods, thanking the man. He puts in his request and the man smith nods, "Good, good, the armor can be ready by tomorrow. I've got the pieces and yer 'bout the same size as meself so I ken fix it up. The blade'll take longer though. Couple o' days, but since yer payin' I might be able to do it a little faster."

Again Cadrius thanks the man and lays a handful of gold coins on the counter as a deposit.

Turning he makes his way back to the inn, the weight of his actions bearing down on him like cavalry on infantry.

[itches]

The Sun Rises, and a portion of the day passes. Those ply an honest trade are long up and about. Those who are less honest, but still have the need to be awake also rise. Nicos is one of these.

Walking out from the room where he spent the night, he is followed by Sarah, one of the bar maids. As she sets out, to helping prepare the evenings meal, Nicos walks over and slumps in one of the seats in the corner.

Glancing around the common room, he notes that it s uncommonly busy (if you forgive the pun) for this time of day, which is to say, it was hardly busy at all.

With a creak that cuts through the small amount of noise in the room, ever pair of eyes glance over and deafening silence drops over the Inn. In the doorway stands a figure. The details are hard to make out at first with the glare from outside obscuring him (, for a him it obviously is), but one thing that everyone can see, it the armband marking him as a member of the town guard.

As a slightly nervous chatter returns to the room, and several patrons get up - trying to look casual as they make they way out the back entrance to the stables. The figure steps into the room, and Nicos recognising the partially bald man, as Sargent Ysie Dem't.

I wonder what brings him around here; he normal frequents the Dented Helm over in the merchant quater. And that armband means he is on business. Eh I’ll find out sooner or later, he is bound to speak to me eventually

With that, Nicos returns his attention to his milk, and idly sips it. As Sgt Dem't, enters the room, he glances around with eyes that have known the street for many years. Seeing the 3 who slip out the back, he notes their faces, but lets them go.

Well this is Cletus and his goons' normal watering hole Dem't's thoughts go. I need to find out what happened that night before they left.

Walking over to the closest bunch of people, he gives a slight nod of recognition in Nicos' direction, and then sets down to the business of questioning the small amount of people in the room.

Seeing the nod, Nicos mutters to himself, "I have to get out of this town. I’m too damn well known"

About 15minuted pass before Dem't arrives at Nicos' table, and he is little wiser.

"Morning Sargent", Nicos says with out looking up. "What brings you into this part of town"

Helping himself to a seat, the Guard returns the greeting then heads straight into the heart of the matter.

"Morning Nicos, you’re looking surprisingly Celibate this morning. A couple of the people here said that you were involved in incident with Cletus last night. Care to elaborate?"

Finally looking up at the older man, his curiosity aroused, Nicos avoids the question.

"You came all the way down here to investigate Cletus making an arse out of himself?"

Looking weary, the Sargent runs a hand over what is left of his hair.

"The Kid is dead Nicos. Him and his mates. They were found last night in an alley. We picked up an Orc that was near by, and he put up a good fight trying to stop us, buy we hauled him in. Still I honestly don’t think he did it, no real motive. The boys didn’t have much money on them, and what little they did was still on the boys. And even Cletus isn’t stupid to pic a fight with an orc. Now are you gona tell me what happened?"

Taken a-back, at the news Nicos, Speaks what his first thinks

"No wonder the air smelt so good this morning. The world is a better place with out that guy."

At the look Ysie Dem't shoots at him, Nicos gives in and tells the story of that night. Admittedly a very basic story, beginning when the group walked in the door, and ending when Cletus walked out. Seeing the intelligence glimmer in the guard’s eyes, the bard knows that every detail of his story is stored in that mind, and probably a few details he didn’t include, are worked out.

Standing with a groan, Dem't puts a hand to his back.

"I'm getting to old for this, the younger people are meant to be doing this work. Don’t suppose I could convince you to join the town guard?"

At the genuine mirth that the offer bring out, the man grins.

"I'll take that as a no. I'll be back later tonight, maybe tomorrow to try and question the others. If you see them, tell them not to leave town."

Leaving the still laughing bard behind, Sargent Ysie Dem't makes his way out the door, and back to the guardhouse to write up what he had learnt.

His mirth subsiding rapidly after the older man leaves; Nicos considers the night’s events in his mind. Waling off into his room, and returning with some parchment, and ink, the Bard sets down to his work for the morning, making a note to keep an eye out for any of the involved group, in order to bring them up to speed. However he is soon ingrossed in his writing, and oblivious to the outside world.

[Gralhruk]

The candle has burned down to a mere stub and the fire she neglected to kindle lays ready in the cold hearth. Her breath has begun to steam in that coldest of times just before the sun has risen. The face staring back from the mirror is slightly paler than it was earlier; the cold has drained the flush of the hot bath from her skin. Even the warmth of the alcohol is fading, the bottle now empty.

She can hear the sounds of people stirring, both without and within, and she pinches the candle out absently. By touch, she identifies the scabbard of her new blade. The blade itself was a marevelous piece of work, wrought of some dusky metal both light and strong. Earlier, she had examined it at length and could identify neither the craftsmanship nor the material it was made out of.

She silently unhooks it from the belt and carries it with her to the pallet, her movements just the slightest bit unsteady. The mattress barely protests as she lays herself out on it, carefully concealing her new sword as she does so. It was time for honest folk to get up and go about the business of earning their daily bread. Her eyes close at about the same time her hand closes on the hilt sequestered beneath her pillow.

It needs a name.

It is her last thought as sleep takes her.

[LonePaladin]

Blood and fire fill his vision; the stench of death and rot, and the cacophany of battle, assault his senses. All is chaos, unrelenting, unforgiving, uncaring.

He sees his brother Pavel, held in place with dark, constricting bonds of magic, crying out in pain as a shadow-cloaked figure twists a spear into his abdomen. He is helpess to respond, because he knows that any attempt at heroics would only lead to the same fate.

Part of him knows that his concealment is simply being practical, allowing him to deal with this in his own terms. Another part screams in anguish, proclaiming him a coward and a weak-willed fool. It's all he can do to keep from crying out himself.

The shadowy figure puts a great deal of ceremony into collecting the spilled blood of the bound man, storing it in a brass bowl. As the bowl fills, it begins to glow with an unearthly aura of evil. The figure begins to chant above the bowl, calling on forces beyond the realms of the material world, urging the powers there to grant his will into reality.

As he watches, horrified, from his place of concealment, the collected blood rises from the bowl, dispersing into a cloud of red mist. The cloud hangs in the air menacingly; as the chanting reaches a crescendo, the cloud coalesces into a humanoid shape, taking definition and form. Finally, it forms the semblance of heavy armor plates, with elaborate protrusions and spikes; anything resembling a face is concealed by a great visor, on a bat-winged helm.

Though he's never seen the like, he finds its name coming to mind. A bloodwraith.

Moving slowly at first, but with increasing speed and agility, it takes several steps around the chapel, knocking over candelabras and fonts along the way. It finally makes its way back to the center, facing the bound and helpless man. Close to death, Pavel cannot raise his head to meet its gaze.

At a word from its summoner, the bloodwraith rushes forward, losing cohesion and turning back into a mobile mass of dark red fluid. It quickly surrounds Pavel, writhing and twisting to form itself back into the appearance of armor, and infusing itself into the body of the man in the process.

As it takes control of his body, Pavel screams his brother's name.

* * *

The paladin wakes with a start, not even aware of when he fell asleep. Shakily, he rises from his bed and splashes some cold water from the ewer nearby. Must have been a bad dream, he muses, Pity I can't recall it now.

As he dries his face off on his shirt, he realizes with a start that everything is visible again. Cautiously, he tries to invoke the Sight again.

Nothing.

NOW what? First four days plagued by constant Sight, now nothing?!

His thoughts are interrupted by an intense growling sound, seeming to come from all around the room. As it subsides, he realizes that the sound is emanating from his stomach, and that he hasn't eaten more than a few scraps since leaving the funeral pyre for the minstrel, Itches.

Hastily, he throws some clothing on and rushes downstairs, hoping that he didn't sleep too late to catch breakfast.

[Black Plauge]

As he stands leaning against the door catching his breath, Blarth realizes that all eyes in the common room are on him. At first is seemed only natural considering he had just come in a mighty big hurry, but these stares convey another emotion besides curiosity: hate.

As this dawns on Blarth he uncomfortable looks around the room searching for some means of support. Some one who didn't have the same experssion on their face. He finds only one in an out of the way coner of the room. A lone man eating a late breakfast.

My god, why do these people hate me? That man he looks familiar. Only yesterday all these folks were more than happy to do buissness with my brother and me. Now they seem to want to kill me. Isn't he that drunken man from last night? And Trak is missing. I do hope he is all right. Maybe that guy can help me. He was nice to me last night.

Making his way over Paladin's table, Blarth strains to make eye contact searching for some sign of recognition from the man.

[LonePaladin]

Quickly tearing his way through a last-minute breakfast, it is a full minute before the paladin realizes that someone is standing there, looking at him expectantly. Half a sausage still sticking out of his mouth, he looks up from his meal.

Now I've seen everything, he thinks. Never thought I'd see such a look of fear on a half-orc.

Not bothering to remove the sausage from his mouth, he simply speaks around it. The sausage muffles his query; all that comes out is a questioning "Mmmf?"

[Black Plauge]

In response to the muffled question Blarth blurts out a string of dialouge so quick it is hard to make sense of, "Sir, I don't really know you, or you me, but you were nice to me last night and all so I thought you might be able to help me find my brother who didn't come home last night and might be in some kind of trouble, judging from the reaction of some of the villagers to me this morning when they started calling me ugly names and throwing rocks at me as I ran away until I got back here and now everyone except you is staring at me like I did something wrong when as far as I know I haven't broken any rules or insulted anyone."

Pausing to breath Blarth then simply asks, "Can you help me, please?"

[LonePaladin]

Getting up from his half-finished meal, the paladin looks the half-orc over. Rather unimpressive, for a half-orc, he thinks to himself. He avoids voicing his opinion, knowing that it's probably a misconception.

"What do you think is going on? What have they accused you of?" He tries to sneak another sausage while asking this, but is forced to wait until after he's done to eat it.

[Maeko]

It had been an interesting night for Maeko.

Nicos had been kept busy his songs and tricks were popular with the inn’s costumer, it seemed, and after a while he had signalled her their expected conversation had better be postponed.
After paying for the room and asking for a bath, the nun went upstairs.

Her quarters were clean and so big for one person, in her opinion, to be almost sybaritic. Arranging her few belongings on a shelf she looked around: a fire was burning happily and a bath-tub was already set in front of it.

She set her cerimonial incense on the small table and went to check the bed: the straw mattress was decadently thick, absolutely inappropriate.

A knock on the door and, at her answer, a boy, little more than a child, entered, opening the door with his shoulder, he was carring two buckets of steaming water which menaced to let their content out on the floor at any moment. She rushed to take them from the child.
“ Your bath-water, mistress...” the boy said, looking at her with a dull stare, as if talking to a bald, almond-eyed woman was an everyday occurrence to him.

“Thank you”. The boy knucled his back, he moved with the slow determination of bone-deep exaustion, compounded, judging from his gaunt look, by not having had enough to eat for a long time.
“ What is your name, child? Are you not young to be working like this?”

“ I am Elyas, the Master took me in when Mother died, two years ago...”

The water was cold when Elyas left, with a fuller belly thanks to Maeko’s remaining rations.The nun did not mind in the slightest.
The day after she would have to speak to Paladin about the boy.

After a bath and some meditation she rearranged the bed, removing the offending mattress and set down for the night.

She woke before dawn, as usual : after her everyday ritual of wushu and Sutras Maeko shaved her head anew, after caring for her equipment she went to look for her companions.

Paladin was having breakfast, or trying to, while a stranger was talking full force to him. Maeko stood, waiting for the two to notice her.

[Cadrius]

It is mid-morning when Cadrius finally makes his way back into the Inn. He inclines his head to Paladin as he walks by. There is but a brief hesitation in his stride as his eyes shift to the half-orc next to him before he greets Maeko and moves up the stairs.

He carries several parcels wrapped in brown paper and tied with strings. His trip through the town had turned out quite well. He is going to get new arms and armor and he was also able to replenish his rations as well as a few other minor essentials.

Is he related to the one who was caught? he thinks as he takes the stairs two at a time, Does it matter? Probably not. Still...

Troubled by these thoughts he closes himself back in his room and unwraps the packages.

[Black Plauge]

Confused by the man's questions, Blarth hesitates before responding with a puzzled look, "Accused? I haven't been accused of anything. Its just that the villagers have been throwing rocks at me, calling me names, and staring at me."

"Anyway, thats not important," he continues, "My brother didn't come back to the inn last night, which is very unusual for him. I over heard some of the villagers talking and it sounds like they arrested some orc last night for a multiple murder. Now while me and my brother are only half-orcs, my brother could easily pass for a full orc, and I haven't seen anyone else like that in town."

"So, you know, I was thinking that it might be my brother they had locked up," Blarth says kind of sheepishly, clearly embarresed by what all this implies.

Noticing the sausage in Paladin's hand, Blarth hangs his head in shame and says, "I'm sorry, I interuppted your breakfast. I really shouldn't have done that."

[LonePaladin]

Ignoring the piece of sausage in his hand, the paladin looks the half-orc over again. Some of the bruises he can see don't look recent, but it's hard to tell how old they are.

He opens his mouth to speak, when he notices a short, bald woman standing nearby, politely waiting. Not wanting to appear rude, he motions for her and the newcomer to sit. Resuming his seat, he gestures with the sausage as he speaks.

"I doubt the locals were throwing rocks at you for sport. Their display of contempt may be linked to the arrest you mentioned; I have a feeling your brother's failure to appear, and the arrest you mentioned, are linked. Whether or not he had anything to do with a murder is another matter -- his actions shouldn't reflect on you in that way."

He neglects to mention that his own brother had nearly dragged him into a similar situation, but with far worse consequences. The frightened half-breed had enough on his plate.

"Maeko, would you care to come with me while I look into this? I have something I want to tell everyone, but I don't know how long it will take me to find the others -- barring Cadrius, who looks like he's just run to his room to open a naming-day gift."

[Maeko]

" I will gladly accompany you" answers the nun, smiling to the self-conscious newcomer.

" Afterwards, if you do not mind" she adds" I would like your counsel regarding a local child".

[Black Plauge]

"Uhmmm... Are you guys planning on going out to do this?" Blarth asks nervously. Glancing around at the other people in the common room he notices that many of them are still glaring at him, though they seem to be trying to do it without Paladin and Maeko noticing.

"M.. M.. Ma.. M.. Maybe I'll go with you," he says as he looks back at the others seated with him.

[itches]

Reaching the end of the parchment before him, Nicos stretches a neck and shoulder gone stiff from a protracted time of being hunched over. As he stretches he notices the small group standing over near the bar.

Why Hello, what's this? Two of the people I wanted to warn about Dem'ts asking question, and ... a half-orc. Hmm, wasn't a half-orc arrested for Cletus's Murder? Oh this has the hallmarks of a tale all over it.

Slowly getting up, and putting the parchment and writing equipment away, has makes his way over to them, Listening to what they are saying as he approaches.

"M.. M.. Ma.. M.. Maybe I'll go with you,"

Hmm a half-orc with a stammer. Oh this just gets better by the second

Taking advantage of a momentary silence as the Half-orc finishes speaking, Nicos interjects himself.

"Ah sorry to interrupt you three, but I was wondering if I could have a quick word with you."

Turning to Maeko, and not giving any of them a change to refuse his request Nicos plunges on.

"Sorry about not being able to have that chat last night." Glancing at Sarah serving a round of Ale, to where some locals are sitting, Nicos grins slightly. "After my last tale there, got ... tangled up with someone, ah I mean something."

Looking back to Paladin, the grin falls from the bards face.

"The other matter is more serious I’m afraid. If you remember the lout who threw that water into the blind Mages face, umm Cadogan I think his name was. Well there was a murder, and they are now dead. A half-orc that was prowling around the area at the time, has been arrested-" at this Nicos glances sideways to the present half-orc to gauge his reaction "-but there is still some doubt over if he killed them or not. One of the town guards, Sargent Dem't - a decent enough guy - was in here before, and looking to talk to everyone who was involved in the water incident, and to see if any of you know anything."

Taking a deep breath, and glancing from person to person, a smile returns to Nicos' face.

That’s peaty much it, Dem't said you would be back here either tonight or tomorrow night to question the rest of you. So if you want to speak to him about it, be here, if you don’t, I suggest making yourself scarce at those times":)

"Once again, sorry for just interrupting like this, but I thought you should be told."

Turning to go, Nicos hesitates.

"You know, I don’t believe I caught your names last night..."

[LonePaladin]

Turning to go, Nicos hesitates. "You know, I don’t believe I caught your names last night..."

The paladin finds himself wishing his Sight hadn't left him this morning. That this man has an ulterior motive is painfully obvious, but his Sight couldn't reveal anything more last night; now that things are coming about, the man is definitely showing signs of motivation. If he had the Sight, he just might be able to predict the man's intentions and see if they needed quelling. As it is, he has nothing more to go on than anyone else.

"You'll not be catching them, either. Not unless we choose to offer them. Which, in case you didn't notice, we haven't.

"If you are so constrained in your dealings with others that you cannot bring yourself to do so without having a monicker, you can simply call me a paladin. Do not ask for more than that.

"As for the others, it's up to them, but such an admission would be ill-advised under the circumstances."

[itches]

Grinning, and not in the slightest put off, Nicos gives a small bow to 'Paladin'

"Ah a man of mystery. Paladin you shall be to be then."

Turning to Maeko and raising an eyebrow, then raising the other and looking at the Half-orc, leaving the bard with a slightly comical expression.

"And you fair lady, may I have the honour of your name? And you sir?"

((OOC: look at this.

Ever
SponkleofInfini 1715
Cadogan Trahem 1608
BigRedRod 1566
TheDruid20 1353
Cadrius 1086
itches 1000

Seems I've had just a few posts delated LOL ))

[Maeko]

" My name is Maeko, brother" answers the nun, wondering at the undercurrents between the two men.

[Black Plauge]

"You would probably recognize my brother, Trak, everyone remebers him. He was drank up quite a storm here the other night but went to do his drinking elsewhere last night. We have been in town a few days now and still people have trouble remembering me. Hell, I ate dinner in this very common room last night while you were singing and, from the look on your face you don't even recognize my face."

Not even realizing that he hadn't answered the bards question, Blarth turns back to the paladin and says, "So, Sir Paladin, what do you want to do?" As he speaks, the nervousness and fear, which had left when answering Nicos' question, returns to Blarth's face.

[LonePaladin]

"If the watch-captain is coming this way to question people, then we stay here and wait for him. Assuming we're all innocent--" at this, he gives a pointed look to the minstrel-- "we have nothing to worry about with him, and we may have some information that will help him find the real killer."

And something tells me that I know who did it, he thinks.

[itches]

Catching the look, Paladin shoots at him, Nicos snorts.

"Being innocent isn’t as much fun is it looks on the surface. Anyway I’m off, I've got some stuff to do at the market before the days gets to late. Have fun with what ever you were doing before I interrupted"

With that, Nicos Turns to leave. After a few steps, he looks back over his shoulder, and says directly to Paladin.

"Oh and Dem't is a Sargent Not a Captain. "

With that last word, Nicos crosses the room and heads up the stairs to where his room is.

[Black Plauge]

During the exchange between Paladin and Nicos, Blarth's face suddenly turns form one of nervousness and fear to one of puzzled thought, an expression which looks totaly alien on his face.

His position and facial expression haven't changed when the bard dissappears upstairs.

[LonePaladin]

The paladin doesn't seem fazed by the minstrel's retort. After all, the man just gave him some useful information: the name and rank of an authority figure. He sits back down and resumes eating. Naturally, his breakfast has grown cold while he was occupied, but he finishes it with vigor.

Wiping the last bits of egg off his plate with a crust of bread, he asks Maeko, "Do you know where the others are? I really need to talk to them soon."

[Maeko]

" I did not see either Cadogan or Shade this morning, I am sorry.

Might now be a good moment to ask your counsel, Paladin?".

The nun looks around to be sure the owner and the serving girls are not within earshot.

" There is something I have to do, but I do not know how".

[LonePaladin]

Realizing that Maeko, of all people, just might be asking him to do something that other people might not appreciate, he leans closer. Surely the fallen paladin and the assassin haven't influenced this one?

"What is it?"

[Black Plauge]

As Maeko and Paladin talk amongst themselves, Blarth's face continues to wear that foreign look of deep thought.

[Maeko]

"There is child here, I met him yesterday. he works like slave but dreams better things, of becoming a craftsman, like his father was.

I have more gold than i will ever need, I would like to find a good master for him, have him become apprentice, out of this place, but I do not know how such things are done in this country."

[LonePaladin]

"It shouldn't be too difficult," the paladin replies. "Why not ask the owner of the place what it would take to gain responsibility for the child? Odds are, you could pay him a flat sum, and he can use that to hire someone for the job.

"If you can, you may want to give him a little more than he asks, so that he can hire someone who needs the work. Maybe even two people, if the work keeps him as busy as you say.

"If he goes along with it, it's up to you where you take the boy."

[Maeko]

" Thank you, I will do that and ask if there is good artisan here needing apprentice, maybe the child himself knows...

I go speak with master..." with a smile and a nod the nun gets up and leaves the room.

[LonePaladin]

As Maeko leaves, the paladin realizes that the half-orc is still standing there, looking like he'd been poleaxed.

He shoves a chair in front of the man, saying "Sit down before someone tries to push you over. You're getting stared at."

[Black Plauge]

As the paladin offers Blarth a seat, a look of enlightenment awash with relief spreads across Blarth's face. As he sits down he turns to Paladin and says, "That bardy fellow mentioned that a half-orc had been arrested for the murders last night. Since I haven't seen any half-orcs in town beside me and my brother, and I obviously wasn't arrested, I think Trak was arrested. Maybe we should go see this sergeant Dem't about all this. "

[Gralhruk]

She slides forward on cat's feet, another indistinct shape in the fading light. Ahead, a darker patch against the grey stone, a cave mouth gapes wide. She can feel the cold pour out of it, a tangible pressure as she moves forward. Only a few short steps inside and the blackness is absolute; the silence almost so, broken now and again with a faint drip of water. The cold, the wet, the dark: she is in the mouth of some gigantic corpse and yet she dare not risk light.

A sound up ahead, faint but unmistakable, draws her forward. It is the scream of a human in pain. Despite the faintness of the sound, she knows that up close it would be loud as the shriek of a banshee. Her ears prick and the skin of her back crawls with fear and yet it is toward the noise that she goes, blindly. Without thought, her left hand slips behind her and silently draws a leaf shaped blade, it's weight a reassuring presence in her sweat slicked hand.

She lets her other hand trail against the rough stone wall, her only guide in the dark. She turns a corner and a short way ahead there is something on the floor of the passage, illuminated but shedding no light, floating in a dark, bottomless deep. As she gets closer she knows that it is a lifeless body, a smaller darkness perched and bobbing near it's head. She sprints forward, leather shod feet a whisper over stone, and stumbles in the dark just short of her target. She goes down in a tangle of limbs, cracking her elbow painfully and lands just short of the corpse, her face only inches from the ruined visage of a dead aristocrat.

It is Itches, and the huge raven on his shoulder dips it's head once more before looking at her, cocking it's head the way birds do, a slithering tendril that was once an eye hanging from it's beak. She skitters backward ungracefully as the bird launches itself at her, claws reaching for her face. She lands flat on her back, expecting to feel the rake of claws against her cheek but all she feels is a brief tug at her neck and for a brief instant she can see the bird before it is off in the dark, a glimmer of silver clutched in it's talons. Itches, one-eyed, stares at her accusingly and her own eyes grow wide as his battered body climbs to it's feet and, of all things, begins singing about two lovers overcoming incredible odds to be together.

"Stop it."

He ignores her and continues singing flatly, the notes of his song dropping down to her like rain and fading to silence before reaching the darkness. The shrieks continue, louder now, an odd harmony to his love song. She gets slowly to her feet and gives the annoying aristocrat her most menacing glare, something that surely would have silenced him in life. Death, however, has made him bold. The song now shifts more somberly as tragedy strikes one of the lovers, ripping him from his beloved at the moment of triumph.

"Stop, damn you!"

She rushes at him but he is gone and she is blind once more as she lunges face-first into a wall of stone. Sharp pain shoots up from her nose, the first unlucky part of her to make contact. She brings bruised knuckles up to her face before swiveling her head to once more home in on the screams. She moves forward but she can feel something else down here with her now, stalking her through the inky sea. She picks up her pace but the feeling intensifies along with the sound of a human in pain.

She is nearly running by the time her fingers scrape over a rough wooden door, the middle of her back itchy, as though she expects to be struck there any moment. She skids to a halt, reaching for handle just as the door explodes outward. She is thrown back against the far wall of the corridor, driftwood in a storm, as light streams out into the tunnel. The red light blinds her and she can only see his silhouette as the man strides from the torture chamber, huge club in his hands, and bellows a challenge at her invisible pursuer. She manages to get to her knees as he charges off but her wind is gone and her calls to him come out as gasps. The blade gripped uselessly in her hand reflects the bloody light as she staggers to the room.

She readies for a fight, or at least carnage but the room is empty; devoid of any device or rack. A huge fire leaps from a pit in the exact center, the walls are spattered with blood, but otherwise there is nothing and nobody in sight. In the distance she can hear an enraged bellow along with sounds of a struggle and she leaves the light and runs off after it. The sounds diminish no matter which way she turns; her hand leaves the wall for a brief second and then she can no longer find it at all. The silence is absolute, the darkness tangible. She gropes for a wall but there is nothing and she walks, futilely searching for something. Exhausted, she eventually collapses and curls herself into a ball.

Hanging from an unseen perch high above, her form is reflected in a beady black eye while hidden talons grip a silver necklace.

[itches]

Making his way up to the room he uses to hold his stuff, and occasionally sleep in, Nicos hums a small tune.

Entering his room, he puts away his parchment, and writing equipment. Opening up a chest, and digging around it for a few moments, he quickly lifts up a false bottom and draws out a Small bag holding some gold. Drawing out several pieces, the Bard quickly replaces the bad, and the false bottom. After making sure it is fully concealed, he re-arranges the items on the chest over the top of it.

Straightening up, he catches sight of himself in the mirror, and stops to look. Staring back out of him is a figure, brown hair, in need of a shave, but not appearing unkempt for it. Rising his only hand to run it through his stubble, Nicos, glances at the shoulder where is left arm used to be, the raises up to peer into the eyes.

There is a lot of bad stuff hidden away in there, Nicos my old boy, a dry voice says in his head. You wont be able to run away, or hide from it forever.

Speaking back out loud to himself, "Maybe not, Nicos you handsome fellow you. But I can give it a bloody good go. And who knows, by the time it all catches up I may have found a solution to it"

What? the dry voice retorts. So far you have been looking in one alehouse after another. Between the arms and legs of a different whore or barmaid everynight. The answers don't lay there, and you very well know it

"Maybe not, but it sure if fun," Nicos speaks aloud again "Beside I don’t know where to look for it. It's not like the solution will just walk through the door of the room one night."

Turning and walking out the door, with his gold safely hidden on his person, the former monk, now Bard, try’s to ignore the voice's last comment.

Maybe it will walk in one night. But the way your going, how would you recognise it if it did?

[LonePaladin]

"Maybe we should go see this sergeant Dem't about all this. "

The paladin heard the request, but didn't respond, fully expecting the sargeant to have entered the tavern by now. Of course, the statement the minstrel made about the man's impending arrival could have been nothing but smoke. He wouldn't have been surprised.

Finally, he gives up on any prospects of seeing the people he traveled with over the past few days, and of being able to get some answers without legwork. Once again, responsibility falls on his shoulders -- one would think he'd be used to it by now.

Rising from his chair, he places a couple coins on the table to pay for the food and drink. To the half-orc, he says, "Let's go. It appears that the sargeant isn't coming here any time soon, so we'll go looking for him."

Without even waiting for a confirmation from the beleagured half-breed, he steps out into the street, looking for a likely place to start looking for someone of authority.

[Black Plauge]

Blarth is befuddled by the Paladin's lack of response. He seems to be waiting for something but Blarth isn't sure what.

As they sit there quietly Blarth's attention begins to wander and he begins looking around the room at the other customers. Most of them have now deliberately positioned themselves so that their backs are to Blarth and there seem to be fewer people than when he entered.

Distracted by these observations Blarth is starteled by the Paladin's sudden burst into action and scampers to catch up as the Paladin strides out of the door ahead of him.

Out in the street, Paladin has paused to look around, as if unsure of his bearings. With some trepidation Blarth suggests, "The town barracks are by the west gate, Trak and I went through there when we came in last week. Perhaps we should start our search for Sargeant Dem't there?"

[LonePaladin]

"Thank you. I always have a nasty habit of getting lost in towns." The paladin begins making his way westward.

Along the way, he spots a shop selling clothing, with a peculiar focus on weatherproof items. He quickly ducks in, and comes out with a thick leather cloak, treated to keep water from soaking in. Handing it to Blarth, he says, "Put this on. Keep the hood up for now. I have a few questions for the constable, and you'll be my edge in negotiations, if my guess is correct."

[itches]

Making his way downstairs to the common room of the Inn, Nicos is back to humming his tune. Taking a look around, and noting who is present

Damnit, where is Shamus, I wanted to have a word with him

Seeing a boy enter the room, Nicos quickly makes his way over to him

"Ho Elyas. Hold up a minute boy. Have you seen Shamus about?"

As the boys nods silently, Nicos pries again.

"Well, where did you see him last?"

Finial Elyas speaks. "He is out the back, speaking to a bald woman"

"A Bald woman," Nicos ponders, holding his hand out horizontally. "About this tall would you say?"

At the boy mutely nods, Nicos grins

"Well you just saved me another two trips, I was looking for both you and her. I'm about to head of the market place, any chance I can get you to accompany me and give me a hand?"

A small bit of light enters to boys eyes at the prospect of escaping from the Inn work, and spending some time in the markets, but he forces himself to shrug his shoulder, and sound nonchalant.

"You would have to ask Shamus, its up to him if he can spare me for a bit"

[Maeko]

Just at that moment Shamus entered the room, followed by the nun.

" Here he is." says the man. " I was about to call you, boy." at the seriousness of Shamus' tone, Elyas seems to grow smaller.

" The water has been drawn, master, and the stable cleaned..."

" Good, then the one taking your place will have a lighter half-day".

Atfirst Shamus' words seems not to register with Elyas, then his eyes grow wide: " Why are you sending me away? I didn't do nothing, I swear!"

Hearing panic in his voice, Maeko cuts in.

" Elyas, calm yourself." At the quiet steadiness of the strange one, the one he shared his dreams with the night before, the one who listened to him like he was somebody; Elyas falls silent.

" I have spoken with Master Shamus; he agrees that you show promise and should learn craft.
If you still wish to, I shall help you arrange apprenticeship with craft master..."

Elyas wasn't able to answer, but his eyes said all.

From his place near the door Nicos observed the scene with a slight, thoughtful smile.

[itches]

Hmm, I think she just brought they boy out of here and into a trade. Most of the brothers I knew back at the monastery wouldn't of cared. Strange

Smiling, Nicos moves forward and claps Elyas on the shoulder. "Well now it looks like you’re defiantly free to come to market."

Looking up at Maeko, with his smile still on his face, the bard speaks, his grin growing a bit larger.

"As I was just telling Elyas, I’m about to make my way over to the market, would you care to accompany us? We could finally have that talk we missed out on last night. Plus I would dearly love to hear the tale of what just transpired here"

[Maeko]

" I will gladly came. I was looking forward to conversation last night.

As to what happened, it was ...businness arrangement, I think is the word?."

[itches]

"Words even" Nicos smiles with a grin. "If you’re ready, shall we be off?"

Leading the way across the common room, Nicos holds the door open for the bald Woman, and the child. Motioning that they should travel eastward, Nicos walks next to them.

After a moment of Silence, he speaks.

"You do seem a long way from home, and as noble as it seems, I doubt that you travelled all of this way to give this boy a better life. Nor to bring me tails from far-way lands. So if I’m not intruding too much, can you tell me what brings you all the way to this wonderful city"

Gesturing around at the squaller they are travelling through, and the occasional beggar

"Some how I also doubt it is for our many tourist attractions"

[Maeko]

" I came on a quest" answers Maeko, somehow she feels she can trust this former brother.

"A holy relic, precious only to followers of the faith, has been stolen from my monastery, we have reason to believe the thieves came from West, although we wonder at their reasons.

I have been charged with recovering it".

[Cadrius]

Cadrius tosses his purchases to the side and stands up. New equipment would do him little good if he were to hang from the gallows. Should he confess? Should he step forward? Probably. No matter what that orc might be or might have done he doesn't deserve to die for Cadrius' crimes.

These thoughts rumble through his head as he comes down the wooden stairs. The smell of stew and wine greet him and a sudden growl reminds him of his hunger. Killing really takes a lot of out him, probably more than he knows.

"If it is not too much trouble I would like a bowl of that wonderful smelling stew and a glass of wine," he says to a barmaid with a smile before sitting down at a table near the fire.

When should he step forward? Soon, to be sure, but how soon? That mob would have torn him apart if he had been on the receiving end of the accusations. If he is to die, he is determined to at least have the dignity of a trial.

As the food arrives and as he takes a sip from the goblet one question flashes through his mind.

Is this the day that I die?

[LonePaladin]

The paladin leads the cloaked, bewildered half-orc westward, finding the constabulary only after asking several passersby for directions. Having finally found the place, he doesn't even wait for the length of time protocol would demand -- he just simply opens the door, and walks in, asking, "Where's Sargeant Dem't?"

One of the guardsmen stops him with a gruff, "Who's asking?"

"Someone who's interested in seeing justice dealt. Who are you?"

The guard snorts. "Name's Caldwell. You're one of the many, by my reckoning. Don't know why you bothered; it's a clear-cut case of murder, and we'll be dealing justice to the killer soon enough."

"What evidence do you have?"

Again, the guard snorts. "Have you seen the brute? Biggest orc I ever saw, all fangs and muscles. No way anyone else could have done it."

The paladin smirks at this. "An orc, you say? So, by your admission, he's guilty of murder simply because of this?"

The guard just shrugs. "Seems a fair enough call to me."

"Then you better arrest the both of us." He reaches back and throws the hood off his companion's head, revealing a human with just a hint of orcish ancestry -- but not so much that he would be considered a monstrosity.

"Here now--"

"No, I said you'd better arrest us both. For murder. Obviously, this fellow here looks somewhat like an orc, so he MUST be guilty of murder. And I'm associating with him, so I must be guilty too. Come to think of it, that would include everyone I've talked with today... Caldwell."

"Now wait just--"

"No, YOU wait. By your own admission, you arrested someone who was near the scene of a crime, and are holding him without any possibility of release. You plan on punishing him for a crime, without even considering the chance that he's innocent. All because of his parentage. Unless you can prove that he committed the crime, you will begin a true investigation, and -- at the least -- withhold punishment until he is proven guilty, if he is at all. Have you even asked the prisoner any questions?"

"Well, no--"

"I thought not. By the authority vested in me by the Valorous Order of Selkirk, and the blessings of High Imperceptor Tassek, I demand to see the prisoner NOW, and I will decide whether or not he stays here. Now."

The guard blanched visibly. "I'm afraid--"

"What? I wouldn't recommend forcing me to call upon the church for this."

"He's not here."

The paladin blinked. "WHAT?"

[itches]

Walking along in silence for another moment, Nicos rubs his ring with his thumb thinking.

"They could of fled this way to try and escape the influence of your monastery. Perhaps to try and sell it where it can’t be traced to them. Or it could even be part of some legendary plot to ascend to godhood, like the tales say the Zann of Trisk attempted centuries ago. The truth will probably remain hidden until you catch the thieves. Still I’ll keep an ear out for any news of strangers wondering around, who share ... some of your appearances."

Going silent again as the reach the outskirts of the market, Nicos stops to survey it. Stalls are arrayed out in an open area, each next to each other, forming a small maze of mini-streets, and open areas. All sorts of goods and services can be found here, from Linin found in some stalls nearby, off in the distance some cattle can be seen, and not to far to the left, the aroma of food waifs over.

Staring fixedly at a point not to distant, a familiar figure with a balding head emerges from the crowd.

Hmm, Dem't is here. I wonder if we can still slip around - too late he has seen us. Well no use in prolonging the unavoidable

Pulling out a gold coin and flipping it to Elyas, the Bard instructs him to see about finding them some food. "Try and get something without meat for the Lady, and keep the rest for yourself."

As the child dashes away into the crowd, the gold piece held firmly in his hand, Nicos motions with his head in Dem't's direction, indication that Maeko should follow him.

Moments later they stand in front of a merchants stall, and Nicos quickly makes introductions.

"Afternoon, Nicos, and Milady," Dem't begins. "Could you do me a favour Nicos, tell the people that I wont be able to see about talking to them until tomorrow evening. There was some trouble with the orc, and we had to move him somewhere more secure. A guard was hurt. They guy was a troublemaker, and probably went into the cell to provoke him, but the kid bite off more then he could chew. Even unarmed the Orc nearly killed him."

Looking like he hasn't slept in a few days, the Guard looks every one of his 39 years. "It was all I could do to stop them from hanging him right there and then. This town is howling for blood. And I don’t think it cares wither the person is innocent or Guilty."

Looking troubled by this, Nicos glances around as if half-expecting the lazy shoppers around them to turn into a bloodthirsty riot. Clapping his arm on the older man’s shoulder, Nicos smiles grimly.

"If push comes to shove, you know you can count one me. And sort of on that issue, I believe you wanted to talk to this Lady. She was at the same table as the Mage and I last night"

[Gralhruk]

Wakefulness comes slowly and Shade groans as a ray of light pierces the shutter. She struggles upright and heads for basin to rinse the sleep from her eyes. The cool water brings some clarity to her thoughts and her eyes scan the room quickly. Her clothes were folded neatly on the floor by the door and she vaguely remembers giving them to one of the servants last night to be cleaned and mended. Whoever it was had slipped them through a flap at the bottom of the door when they had finished.

A short while later she is dressed and wearing her customary cloak with a dagger at her belt, though she leaves her armor in the room. Her new sword is sheathed at her back and hidden from view. Surveying the common room from the top of the stairs she spies Cadrius just finishing his meal. The man was looking exceptionally grim today. Her brow wrinkles as she notes a dark stain on the floor a few tables away from him; something she had spilled the last time she was here. She ought to be hungry, but last night's alcohol made thoughts of food somewhat less welcome and the reminder of a murder took them away completely.

She takes the stairs slowly, feeling almost like she is descending into an abyss, and winds her way to his table. She pulls a chair and sits without asking, her back to a wall. He has half a glass of wine left and she reaches for it, lifting an eyebrow at the look he gives her, and swallows half of it down before replacing it. She closes her eyes and leans her head against the wall.

"Good morning."

[Black Plauge]

Curious as to what the Paladin has in mind, Blarth takes the raincoat and puts it on as asked. At the very least no one is glaring at me any more. Now they just seem to be curious.

When they arrive at the constabulary, Blarth is in turn perplexed and then amazed at the track Sir Paladin's questioning takes. He barely even moves when his hood is pulled back but is somewhat suprised by the invocation of church authority in the matter. This Sir Paladin, must be a holy man. I wonder why he didn't denounce me for exchanging Trak's greave for his?

The guard blanched visibly. "I'm afraid--"

"What? I wouldn't recommend forcing me to call upon the church for this."

"He's not here."

The paladin blinked. "WHAT?"


"WHERE IS MY BROTHER?!?" Blarth screams and steps forward. Grabbing the guardsman by the front of his chain shirt Blarth lifts the man off his feet and shouts again, "WHAT HAVE YOU DONE WITH HIM?"

Visibly shaken by not only the sight of the enraged half-orc but also by the fact that his feet are no longer on the floor the guardsman begins to stammer..

"We... We... We had to mo... mo... move him. He att... tt... ttacked Mataeiu and tried... d... d to k... k... kill him."

A familiar smell then begins to eminate from the guard. A wet spot forms on the front of the man's breeches and spreads down his leg to begin to drip onto the floor.

OOC: Blarth rages and initiates a grapple. The gaurdsman is flatfooted and unable to take his AoO. Blarth's grapple deals no damage but lifts the guardsman off his feet (24 STR while raging). Blarth sucessfully intimidates the guard who pisses his pants as a result.

[Cadrius]

His head tilted forward Cadrius does not see Shade until she lays a hand upon one of the chairs at the small table. His eyes flick upward at once but as soon as he sees the familiar darkly clad lithe form he leans back and folds his arms over his chest.

"Morning," he says. To any other the short responses and closed body language might look like a sign of hostility. But with Cadrius, a man who finds it increasingly difficult to coexist with others, it's practically an embrace.

He is frowning his thoughts still dominating his mind until she takes the glass of wine and drains it. He starts to open his mouth to object and then smiles as he shakes his head and looks away. There are more important things to worry about.

"Sleep well?" he asks, straying away from his normally more formal speech.

The inn's clientele seems to vary during the day. The morning and noon meals finds it frequented by the more well-to-do citizens of the town, merchants, an aristocrat or two, some officials. It is nothing like the loud and bawdy place he remembers from the night before.

His eyes slide back and forth observing everyone present. Satisfied that there is little to fear he visibly relaxes.

[Gralhruk]

One gray eye pops open at the other's simple question and studies him carefully. The wine had settled her stomach a little and the idea of food wasn't as alien as it had been a few moments ago. Her sleep had been troubled although she couldn't really remember the dream. The other eye opens and there is a brief frown before she shrugs and signals a serving girl.

"The same as always."

She draws one knee up to her chest and does her best not to look at the spot where she had killed the dwarf. What had she been thinking coming back here? This was as casual a conversation as they'd had since their strange meeting only a ten day prior. She didn't want to ruin it but she wanted him to know that, whatever might come of it, she was on his side. Keeping her voice carefully neutral, she can't help looking at the old bloodstain on the floor when she speaks.

"Good thing we both retired early last night. I hear there was some trouble. But, like I'd tell anyone that asked, we both retired early."

[LonePaladin]

"Put the man down."

The request is ignored as the half-orc, now fully enraged, gives the guard a good shake. Drops of fluid fly from the man's boots, apparently going for distance.

"I said, put the man down." The paladin puts a hand on Blarth's shoulder, but he is still ignored.

"For the last time, put the man down!" He grabs the half-orc from behind, by his forehead, forcing his head upward at a very uncomfortable angle. Reflexively, Blarth reaches up for the grasping hand, dropping the guard. At the same moment, the paladin lets go, leaving Blarth standing awkwardly.

"We will be checking in on you later, to ensure the well-being of the prisoner. And if we don't hear that an investigation has begun, we'll be expecting the conditions of his imprisonment to improve rapidly. Justice will be done, but not without learning the truth first.

"Now, either tell me where the prisoner has been taken, or take me there yourself. After you get yourself cleaned up."

[Black Plauge]

"Put the man down."

A familar voice tickles at the back of Blarth's conciousness.

"I said, put the man down." The voice says again.

"For the last time, put the man down!" The voice repeats and suddenly Blarth finds him looking up at the ceiling. Dropping the guard he reaches for the hand that pulled his head back only to find it no longer there. Looking around, Blarth appears unsure of what happened and suddenly confused.

"We will be checking in on you later, to ensure the well-being of the prisoner.
That voice is familiar.
And if we don't hear that an investigation has begun, we'll be expecting the conditions of his imprisonment to improve rapidly.
Its that man over there, what's his name?
Justice will be done, but not without learning the truth first.
Paladin, that's it.

Suddenly a look of realization dawns on Blarth's face and he begins to calm down. His face loses the killer instinct that is openly displayed just a few seconds ago and resumes its more open innocence.

"Now, either tell me where the prisoner has been taken, or take me there yourself. After you get yourself cleaned up."

As the conversation continues Blarth looks around for a chair and spying one in a coner goes and sits down. He hunches over, elbows on his knees and breathes heavily. He is obviously fatigued by the what he just did.

Clearly disturbed by the transformation that Blarth has undergone, not once, but twice in the span of seconds, the guard fruitively glances between Blarth and Paladin before responding.

"He was taken to the Temple of Heironeous. Sergeant Dem't felt that they would keep him out of trouble until juctice could be dealt." Glancing again over at Blarth he continues, "I would gladdly take you there, but see, I can't leave my post except in an emergency," he casts another fruitive glance at Blarth, "and, begging your pardon, but this isn't an emergency. I'll get into trouble if I leave."

[LonePaladin]

The paladin nods at the guard, then helps Blarth up from the chair. "Thank you, Caldwell. I apologize for having to threaten you, but I'm more interested in finding the real killer than blaming a scapegoat. Assuming, of course--" he glances at Blarth-- "that proof doesn't lead to the prisoner."

After leaving the guardhouse, he begins leading the way east, back to the inn. He doesn't stop anyone to ask directions to the church. It's late, and not many people are about -- but the paladin isn't flagging anyone down, either.

I can't take the chance; not yet. Odds are, the interlopers sent "official" word of my expatriatism to all the nearby parishes. I wouldn't be surprised if they sent word of my excommunication, or a reward for my head.

Rounding a corner, he hesitates for just a moment.

Why didn't the others tell me there was a church of Heironeous here? Surely I'd've known if they were leading me into a trap; I would have been able to tell with the Sight--

No. The Sight has left me, for now at least. But can I dare trust a fallen paladin, an assassin, and a foreign priest? I must speak with them. Tonight.

Finally, the paladin and the half-orc arrive at the inn, just as people are beginning to meander in.

[NestroEmichae]

Ilastros walked into the bar and looked around. No sign of the mage that had attacked his family anywhere in this region, meaning that he had possibly followed a false clue. That could possibly leave months behind, but he had the time. Besides, he needed a bit of time to rest from the journey anyway.

Ilastros noticed two people, one of them being a half-orc, walk into the inn. He cared nothing for those with orc blood, since the mage he was hunting was an orc, but it was the companion that Ilastros found interesting. He decided these two would be interesting and walked up to them, silently trying to remember the name he told the town guard.

"You two look like you have been long on the road. My name is Yendi and I believe that I may be able to be of service to you two. My fighting skills are up to par and I could use the companionship for awhile. Besides, an extra fighter is always one less wound that you take," Ilastros said to the two, silently wondering if one was a paladin.

[LonePaladin]

The paladin looks the newcomer over, once, very quickly, before speaking. "Yendi, you probably will not be of service to us. Your prowess in battle was never brought to question, nor will it be. For companionship, I'm sure there are several here who would be willing to oblige you; I am not. And an extra fighter is simply one more charge to take responsibility for -- my wounds are my own, and I do not have the option of passing them on.

"In brief, if you're looking for adventurers, look elsewhere. I do not seek trouble. If you're looking for heroes, move on. I am no hero."

Brushing the man aside, he makes his way into the rapidly-crowding common room. Just barely, he spots Cadrius sitting at a table with someone else. He weaves his way through the crowd, getting himself close enough to attempt to judge whether the warrior is adverse to company at the table.

[Black Plauge]

Unsure of what to do next, Blarth tags along at Paladin's heels, hoping that he might have some idea of how to clear his brother of the charges against him.

The look on the stranger's face reminds Blarth that half-orcs aren't currently very welcome in this town and he pulls the hood of the raincoat he still wears back over his head to hide his face. Why would anyone advertise their fighting skills to comlete strangers? Strangers may be future enemies and it is unwise to reveal one's strengths to them.

"In brief, if you're looking for adventurers, look elsewhere. I do not seek trouble. If you're looking for heroes, move on. I am no hero."

Sir Paladin certianly is not a holy man as my brother is. Trak would have had no problem claiming to be a hero.

A late lunch crowd seems to be filling the common room. Merchants who opened their stalls while others took the noon rest now take their lunch. Paladin ignores them however as he scans the common room. Apparently he spots who he is looking for and begins to weave his way through the common room towards a table near the fire. Still clueless as to how to help his brother, Blarth follows through the crowd like a dog on the heels of his master.

[NestroEmichae]

Ilastros smiles and looks at the man as he walks away.

You have no idea what I am, let alone what I am capable of. If you only knew, then you might be willing to allow me to travel along. Besides, I you might know more about my target than I suspect.

Ilastros silently followed the pair, looking them over. He had his suspicions about the reason why the half orc was following him. As he watched the two he saw the man, who Ilastros was still wondering if he was a paladin, approach a table with another person at it. Ilastros then wondered if both were paladins, although he doubted it.

"Do not be so quick to dismiss someone. I take care of myself and ask to journey for the fun of it, not to be protected or cuddled by someone. If I happen to die in the process, then it is my mistake, not yours. I look for neither adventurers nor heroes. Both end up equally dead, often because of what they are," Ilastros said, throwing indignation he did not feel into his voice.

In truth, Ilastros fealt nothing in either direction. He neither hated nor respected the man he was talking to: Like the past few, he did not expect this one to live much longer. It seemed that anyone he was interested in journeying with ended up dead. Ilastros had delt with many adventurers, and his goal was only revenge against one person. He felt that, while he could afford a bit of fighting and fun, he had no time to waste on petty matters with rude people.

"One last thing: If I wanted companionship, I know of where I can get it for a price. Sometimes it is not want of heroes, companions, treasure, or adventure that drives us, although I'm sure you know about that," Ilastros said.

[Cadrius]

Cadrius reclines in the chair, his body relaxed but his eyes are tense. He looks at Shade a moment, blinks once, and then says quietly, "Good for you perhaps, but I believe I might need to speak with the guards soon."

He opens his mouth to say more but closes it again as Paladin strides toward their table. Normally he would've felt burdened by the man's presence but he is unwilling to meet Shade's glare and inclines his head once, acknowledging him.

He pushes on a nearby chair with one foot and slides it out a bit for the Paladin to take. His eyes flick to the man appearing at Paladin's side and glances back questoiningly. Judging by the slight irritation in his voice Paladin must have slighted him. Cadrius is amused by this, perhaps he wasn't the perfect epitome of goodness after all.

"Yes?"

[LonePaladin]

The paladin sits down. "We need to talk -- all four of us. Can we get Maeko here, or go to where she is? It's important."

[Gralhruk]

Stupid: you just can't wait to do something stupid, can you?

Her eyes harden at the same instant as the man sitting across from her and she regrets having said anything. He obviously was going to do what he was going to do and now she'd opened the rift between them again. It doesn't help her mood when Paladin emerges to fill the void. He was part of the problem, filling Cadrius's mind with stupid ideas that would only get him locked up or worse.

As usual, the man takes charge and issues a few orders. The serving girl chooses that moment to bring her breakfast along with a flagon of wine. The scent of food turns her stomach, her appetite having soured, but she uses her dagger to nonchalantly carve herself a piece of ham. Her eyes scan the bar as she brings dagger and morsel to her mouth.

"I haven't seen her, but then, she looks like an early riser to me."

[Maeko]

Maeko looks up at the ‘sargent’, then bows deeply : “ If I may help you I will”, she starts, serious, “ What you wish to know?”.
Dem’s doesn’t outwardly react to the foreigneness of the woman, to him having found a collaborating witness is enough.
“ I would like to know what you remember happening in the common room of the inn yesterday evening”.

Maeko remains silent and perfectly still for a few moments. Dem glances at Nicos, who grins, raising his hand in a ‘be patient’ gesture.

“ I remember entering and sitting next to Cadogan, at corner table” starts the nun, her voice has a slightly far-away quality, like she was re-living those events.
“ Cadogan is companion of ours, he is ‘sorcerer’” she adds, pronouncing the word like it was a new one to her.


Maybe it is, thinks Dem, nodding for her to go on.

“ He started speaking of his previous adventures to us, and of magic. Then three people came and the boss threathened him, even throwing a cup of water at him.

He lost face, menacing a blind man, but seemed not to realize it” ,wonders the woman.
The comment is meaningless to Dem, but he decides to let it lie for now .“What happened then?”

“Nicos and I were ready to defend him, but Cadogan stopped us, and the three went out congratulating each other, That is all”.

“ Was there an orc in the common room?”

Maeko frowns slightly: “ I have never seen ‘Orc’, but all the people in there were human or spirit-folk”.

" Spirit-folk?"

" Pointed ears, up-swept eyebrows..." tries to explain the nun, looking to Nicos for help.

“ Elves you mean!Good enough, did anybody go after them?”

“I do not recall, but I have seen Cadrius come in, after a while, he may have seen something…” answers Maeko in full innocence.

[itches]

At that moment Elyas comes running back up, carrying two pasty-wraps and what suspiciously looks like a bad of sweets. Noting Dem'ts curious glance, Nicos swiftly makes introductions and explains the situation.

"One of the reason's we we're out here was to try and look for a trade our young master."

Looking intrigues by this, The Sargent of the guard runs the stubble on his chin and looks the young boy up and down.

"We recently had an opening at out Cadetship. Training to be a town guard you see. Most people tend to come to the post, later in life when they have already learnt a bit about the world. But there is still an active, if small, portion that joins in through apprenticeships. Don't suppose you would be interested boy?"

As Elyas's eyes got wide, considering the possibilities of become a town-guards man. Continuing on, Dem't try’s to sell the idea.

"It is hard work, and full of danger, I wont lie to you about that. But it is satisfying work, and you sleep well at night knowing that you have made a difference. Come no need to decide now, I'll see you tomorrow evening when I’m back in town. Where can I find you?"

"At the Inn" interjects Nicos, "you can probably find him when you come to question the others. Now I don’t suppose you would care to tell me where you have the orc imprisoned?"

Motion for the bard to follow him, Dem't steps out of earshot of Maeko and the boy.

"No Nicos that’s not information I just want floating around. Suffice to say that the location is secure." Looking back over his shoulder Dem't seems to be beating around the subject. "That is a weird one you have back there my boy. I get the feeling that she doesn't think like the rest of us, but you can tell in her eyes that there’s intelligence, and a fair amount of steel in her. A over his bald plate, "Maybe she will start a fashion of it."

Looking back at where the nun is standing next to the boy, Nicos nods. "Yes I noticed that myself, but I don’t think you asked me over here to talk about my new friend’s finer qualities. What is it old man?"

Looking distinctly uncomfortable, the guard-Sargent appears to be floundering for words. "I - look. Make sure to keep yourself away from trouble until I get back, okay boy? Look I have to go, make sure that this 'Cadirus' and the others stay in town until I get back as well"

Then without so much as a word of farewell, Dem't turns and hurry’s off into the crowd. Watching the back of the departing man's head, and completely confused by the conversation, Nicos slowly makes his way back to where Maeko and Elyas are.

[LonePaladin]

The paladin notices Shade's face take on several expressions, most of which are unreadable to him. For a moment, he wishes his Sight were working, but doesn't let that thought stay for long.

"Fine, she'll turn up eventually. I don't want to spend all day trying to get all three of you in the same room -- that might take all year, and this won't wait."

He draws a deep breath. "I won't be traveling with you when -- IF -- you move on from here. In fact, I'll probably be leaving at dawn tomorrow."

Not caring if they're interested, he explains. "When I met up with you three and the... minstrel... I made an oath to see all of you reach this place safely. In that respect, I failed. One of your number now lies under a cairn, because I was not able to fulfill my duty. In allowing someone to pursue vengeance, we sent a man to an early death, and I cannot take the risk that it happens again. My contract with you, if you will, ended at that point."

He places a pouch on the table, letting it spill open. All of the coin he was given, and the magical potion, scatter across the table.

"I did not join you for wealth, or glory, or any of those other goals. I simply sought to see a group of travelers safely on their journey -- not join in a massacre.

"If our paths cross again, I hope we can trade a story or two. Otherwise, do not seek me out. I just have one thing to do here tonight, and then I will leave."

Having said his peace, he gets up to go.

[Black Plauge]

Under his hood Blarth's face furrows in confusion as Sir Paladin speaks to these strangers.

Who are these people? How did Sir Paladin meet them? They certianly don't appear to be holy people. Who died? Why does Sir Paladin feel responsible? What does he mean, massacare? He will leave at dawn tomorrow?

"Wait, a minute," Blarth begins outloud, "What about my brother? Are you still going to help me clear him? Do you think we will be able to take care of this tonight? You aren't going to leave me with him still locked in that temple of Heironious are you?" Blarth finishes in a pleading voice.

[Gralhruk]

Shade makes no move for the valuables so casually thrown on the table, although her eyes narrow as the man continues his tirade. When he has finished she takes a deliberate swallow of wine and then looks up at him without moving. Before she can respond the large, hooded figure behind him suddenly blurts out something regarding a man in captivity. Ignoring the outburst she turns her flinty eyes back to Paladin.

"Sounds like you've got other people to save."

Pushing away her barely touched food she rises and folds her arms. Her voice starts out soft and gradually takes on a bitter edge.

"I don't remember anyone asking for your protection. You joined us, after you had been attacked yourself. Nobody has a dagger to your throat: you come and go as you please.

Vengeance? Glory? All we were doing was journeying through a wood. We didn't ask for those damned beasts to hound us. I rescued a comrade and went to reclaim stolen belongings, not to settle some score or make a name for myself."

She doesn't shout but it is clear she is angry; not the frenzied anger of a cornered beast but the cold fury of a seasoned hunter.

"The minstrel died because he was stupid. He could have stayed at his fine castle and married his beloved but he was out looking for glory. He thought it was all a big, happy story like he heard when he was a child. He made his own choices and he died for what he believed in; I think it was stupid and you think it was needless but that was his choice, not yours and not mine. You can't save people from themselves."

She pushes past him and glares at his companion, catching a glimpse of the orcish face under the hood. The pile stays untouched on the table as she storms out of the tavern, a flash of deep blue silk marking her exit.

[NestroEmichae]

What have I gotten myself into? If they realize that I've been standing here listening the whole time, this could turn bad. Still, they would be useful companions, so maybe they would be helpful. Besides, something tells me this is going to be interesting.

"You're right, young one. You may not like the orc, but deal with him. Your destiny lies with him and his companions, although it may not be a destiny you like. You just do not have a choice in this matter," a female voice, barely a whisper in the wind, seemed to say in the back of Ilastros's mind.

Ilastros walked up to the table, thinking the entire way. Am I going crazy? How did I hear their conversation so clearly? It was as though they were the only ones talking, and yet I see this place is full of people. More importantly, where did that voice come from?

"Orc, I understand that you may need help with your brother. If you are willing to help me with a quest I am on, I will help you with yours. Besides, I need the break from what I am doing anyway," Ilastros said.

Wait! Was that my choice, or was it something else? It seems as though all of this is my idea, and yet I have a feeling that I had no control over my actions. I must guard my thoughts and my mind closely. They seem to not be my own as of late. More importantly, was it my decision to come here and choose those two, or is some unknown person playing me as a pawn? I must tell them none of this.

"Troubled, kind sir?" a barmaid, who Ilastros had not heard walking up to him, said.

"No. None at all. Just some bad memories in a bar similar to this," Ilastros said.

Bad memories indeed. It was in a bar just like this one where the orc mage gave me the slip.

[LonePaladin]

The paladin takes a glance at Shade's retreating back, then the two standing nearby, finally resting his gaze on Cadrius.

"It's settled then. Once I've taken care of unfinished business here, I'll be on my way." He turns to face the others, leaving the money on the table for Cadrius to deal with. "Shall we--"

Suddenly, everything goes red. Blindingly red. His Sight, normally just a faint red haze over everything, clouds his vision in its intensity. Mixed in is a series of images -- blades, angry faces, blood -- and a cacophany of sound; screams, shouts, curses. Once again, it somehow manages to convey intent as well -- revenge, murder, bloodshed. The headache he had in the morning comes back full force, like a battering ram in his head.

"AAAAAAAAAH!" The paladin suddenly grasps his head, his fingers threatening to burrow straight into his skull. He collapses to the floor, breathing heavily. In the midst of his panting, a few words can barely be heard.

"--tower--"

"--guards--"

"--track--"

"--assassins!"

Blarth catches the one word, realizing that it has that harsh clipping of the 'k' at the end, making it an Orcish word. A name.

[Cadrius]

Cadrius moves to follow Shade, unsure of whether to be angry or in agreement with her. She's right to an extent they didn't ask him to protect them, Cadrius certainly felt as if his niche had been tread upon by the presence of a real paladin. A bitter taste enters his mouth as he thinks upon the holy warrior. His sudden distate has little to do with the man and much to do with the profession. Paladin reminds him of days long past, loves lost, and glory discarded, things he'll never have again.

Despite these feelings of resentment he leaps to his feet and is at Paladin's side mere moments after he hits the floor. He seems to be saying something but Cadrius can't understand it.

"Are you hurt?" he asks, checking the paladin for wounds from unseen foes.

A small crowd gathers around them. He looks up and glares at them until he spots a barmaid.

"You there," he says, pointing to her, "bring me a mug of water and a mug of ale."

She stands still a moment longer and then is gone, disappearing through the throng of people.

"As for the rest of you," he stands and grits his teeth before saying, "go back to whatever you were doing."

His voice is low, menacing, and the normally rough crowd seems to give a collective nod before moving back to their tables and booths. The barmaid appears with a mug in each hand.

"Thank you kindly," he says, dropping a gold piece in her palm.

He kneels by Paladin's side and holds the mug of water to the man's lips.

"Come on," he says roughly, "drink it and you will feel better."

[Black Plauge]

The reaction of the woman to Sir Paladin's offer suprises Blarth. Who is she to speak to him in such a fashion? As does her rapid exit without so much as a proper good-bye. Well, isn't she sort of rude. Any ruder and she could give Trak a run for his money. Blarth's eyes follow the retreating form of Shade as he apparently ignores the offer made to him by the stranger.

With that Blarth's eyes return to the table in time to see Sir Paladin fall to the floor in pain. Shocked by this action, Blarth stands and stares, unsure what to do. Fortunately the impetus to action is taken by the man who had been seated at the table. Bewildered Blarth stands by watching.

"--Trak--"

The word nearly jumps out at him. His brother's name? What is going on? Blarth kneels down by Sir Paladin's head in time to make out another word,

"--assassins!"

"Assassins? Where? Are they after Trak? What are you trying to say? Sir Paladin, is my brother in some kind of danger? Is someone trying to assasinate him? Sir Paladin? Sir Paladin? Can you here me? Can you tell me what's going one?" Blarth looks imploringly at Sir Paladin trying to will an answer out of him.

[NestroEmichae]

Ilastros also noticed the strange behavior of the human. Upon seeing the orc was ignoring him and being concerned by the strange behavior. He was about to leave, trying to ignore the guiding hand that was trying to get him to stay.

"--Trak--"

Ilastros stopped dead in his tracks and turned pale. Trak was what the orc mage called himself. Ilastros suddenly knew, without knowing it, that he was close to discovering something about his prey.

"Assassins? Where? Are they after Trak? What are you trying to say? Sir Paladin, is my brother in some kind of danger? Is someone trying to assasinate him? Sir Paladin? Sir Paladin? Can you here me? Can you tell me what's going one?" the orc looks imploringly at Sir Paladin trying to will an answer out of him.

His brother? I can get revenge on that mage by killing his family. First, however, I must get to him. Still, I must get him alone if I expect to kill him.

Ilastros turned around and walked back to the orc. One guy was helping the human kneeling on the ground drink some liquid, probably to help the guy calm down. Still, Ilastros had the feel that powerful magic was involved. The place almost stunk of it.

"So your brother is named Trak? I have been sent to find him by some people. They wish to speak to him about an inheritance he is somehow entitled to. Looks like we share the same quest," Ilastros said, trying to sound friendly.

"Be careful of the human who said those words. He must know something of your quest. Perhaps that final word is who you are looking for..." the female voice, still as faint as the wind, said.

Who are you?

"Worry about that not, mortal. Still, if you must call me by anything, call me Ilyasi. That was the name I used so long ago. Just do my bidding, mortal, and life shall be rewarding for you," the female voice said again.

No one else seems capable of hearing you. Am I so special? Or have I gone mad afterall?

"Both and neither, mortal. Both and neither..." Ilyasi said.

[LonePaladin]

Suddenly the paladin's hands fly from their death-grip on his head, causing the cup of water offered by Cadrius to smash into the wall, shattering into shards of clay. The paladin's eyes snap open, glowing a bright red -- but it's like the color of a sunset, rather than blood.

He stands up, brushing off attempts to help him. When he speaks, his voice has a strange echo to it, almost as if he were underground.

"He's here."

He doesn't even bother pushing people out of the way, as he walks to the door. He doesn't have to -- everyone seems intent on not getting in his path.

Just outside the door, someone is tethering his riding horse to the post by the entrance. Upon seeing the paladin's face, the man hastily backs away, but it seems the paladin's attention is on him. The paladin speaks again, in that hollow voice.

"I need your horse."

Stammering, the man nods and hands over the reins. As the paladin takes them and mounts up, both warrior and steed seem to glow that bright red for an instant -- and the paladin is seated on the back of a massive charger, stamping impatiently, almost as if it anticipates the paladin's intent. He gives the reins a light tug, but the effect is instantaneous. The warhorse turns and begins charging down the street at a full gallop.

[Black Plauge]

So your brother is named Trak? I have been sent to find him by some people. They wish to speak to him about an inheritance he is somehow entitled to. Looks like we share the same quest,"

Again the stranger's words pass by Blarth without registering. This time, though, it is apparent form the look on his face that he is not purposely ignoring the stranger but rather all his attention is devoted to Sir Paladin's prone form in front of him.

Suddenly the paladin's hands fly from their death-grip on his head, causing the cup of water offered by Cadrius to smash into the wall, shattering into shards of clay. The paladin's eyes snap open, glowing a bright red -- but it's like the color of a sunset, rather than blood.

Blarth recoils from the sudden motion of Sir Paladin's hands and nearly falls on his rump as a result. As Sir Paladin stands up and heads out the door Blarth scrambles to follow, pushing his way through the crowd that forms behind Sir Paladin to watch. When he makes it out side he sees Sir Paladin ride off down the street at full gallop. Without thinking he runs after him in what most would call a vain effort to keep up. However, to the suprise of on lookers Blarth doesn't fall behind nearly as fast as a person should. For a good half-a-minute his strides seem to swallow the ground as he chases after the horse falling behind by only a very little. It is only when Sir Paladin is about 60 some odd paces in front of Blarth that Blarth begins to slow down as he continues to chase. However, it seems this was far enough as Sir Paladin slows and dismounts in front of what looks like a battle ground.

OOC: Blarth manifests his burst talent for five consecutive rounds as he runs after Paladin, raising his speed to 50ft (and using up his remaining free talent manifestations for the day). The horses base speed is 60ft so he loses 40ft/round on the horse during those rounds. During the 6th round Sir Paladin arrives at the shrine and dismounts (using only 120ft of the avaliable 240ft). Blarth is 200ft behind at the begining of the round and will take 2 more round of running to catch up.

[NestroEmichae]

Ilastros watches the scene with little curiosity. To onlookers, it seems as though Ilastros was waiting for this to happen. To be perfectly honest, he wasn't but thought the human human was having some kind of fit. He wasn't surprised at how the orc reacted.

What surprised Ilastros was that he did nothing at all. He somehow lacked the urge to go after them. He also suspected he finally had some answers.

So he was a paladin! The orc probably isn't one. What about the man who was trying to help him drink?

"You're very perceptive. You're also very powerful. No one else has been able to resist me. I suspect that you are very powerful. However, there are others of power that you should meet first," Ilyasi said.

Ilastros felt the urge to talk to an elf female at the bar, but he somehow broke Ilyasi's hold over him and ran out of the bar instead. He asked a local which way the orc had gone and started running, his feet seeming to eat up miles as he ran. He ran until he saw the orc and then slowed down to a walk, preffering to not tired himself too much. As he walked up to the orc, he silently wondered about the presence in the bar. Something about it just wasn't right, and he felt a need to get away from it.

You're a ghost, aren't you?

"As I said. Very perceptive. I'm surprised you broke my hold over you. Any longer and I was going to make you my slave," Ilyasi said.

Get to the point.

"Very well. I want you to do something for me. I was killed not far from here and I want you to find and kill the descendents of the guy who killed me. When you ask about me, they will know if they are the ones," she said.

Ask about you?

"Yes. I am also known as the archlich Mensato," Ilyasi said.

[LonePaladin]

The paladin's ride takes him to the edge of town, about a quarter-mile away from the inn. A small stone building lies just inside the gates, its windows shattered, the door hanging by one hinge below the carving of a lightning bolt.

The local shrine to Heironeous, the god of valor.

Several people are sprawled in the street, clad in scale armor: members of the town guard. Those who are still living are helping the wounded, while a small group gathers, preparing themselves to rush the entrance.

As the paladin arrives, the defenders charge the door, but are stopped by an armored figure in the threshold. With one swipe of its sword, it drops one of the guards; the others quickly regroup, establishing a safe distance. The sound of fighting can be heard from inside.

Blarth and Ilastros see the paladin dismount, and can hear him clearly, despite the distance. "I will not let this continue! Yield now!"

The armored figure steps away from the building, still holding the bloodied sword. Its voice is just as audible, though it doesn't seem to be raising its voice. "Hello, my brother! It's about time you showed up! We've got something planned for you inside, once I've made you more... pliable."

There is a sudden burst of reddish-black light about the figure, surrounding him in the form of armor plates. He quickly closes the distance to strike.

[NestroEmichae]

Ilastros, upon seeing what the orc is headed for, decided to join in as well. However, he walked up to a man with a horse beside the road instead. He noted that the man was watching the scene with great interest.

"Can I borrow your horse?" Ilastros asked.

"No. Now get away," the man said.

Then the man suddenly turned ice pale and started gibbering. Ilastros felt a sheer wall of cold behind him and had the urge to run away from it as fast as he could. It wasn't until the raspy, as though not used in hundreds of years, but still feminine voice behind him spoke up that he knew who it was.

The voice said one simple phraze, "I suggest you give him the horse."

The man promptly let go of the reins and ran away as fast as he possibly could. Ilastros, not being one to look a gift-lich in the mouth, immediately got on the horse and started riding towards the temple. He smiled silently as he remembered the look on the man's face.

You're very useful to have around.

"Thanks," Ilyasi said.

Why wasn't the horse frightened?

"I used a spell on it to keep it from being affected by my manifestation. Unfortunately, it apparently has not affect on psions," Ilyasi said.

I'm a psychic warrior, not a psion.

"Whatever."

[LonePaladin]

The paladin braces himself for the attack, reaching for his warhammer -- only to realize that he left it in the inn, upstairs in his room. In desperation, he lunges forward to meet the charge, trying to grab the man's arm and keep that sword out of reach.

As he closes in, small shards of crystal begin flying around the man: crystals made of solidified blood, it seems. Several of these shards dig into the paladin's skin, leaving long scratches across his arms and chest. Before he can reach in, the man swipes his sword across the paladin's midsection, tracing a long furrow of blood along his stomach.

As he grabs the man's arms, the paladin lets out a cry of rage, and his hands release a flare of blue-white light; in its wake, the armor and flesh beneath burns and crackles. Ignoring the lancing shards of blood leaving gashes on his arms and face, he tries to wrench the sword away.

Apparently, the transformation he'd endured made him much stronger than normal. With almost no effort, the man pulls his arms free, throwing the paladin to the ground in the process. Before the paladin can recover, he brings the sword around, holding it point-downward over the paladin's chest.

"Thus, the fight ends, dear brother," the man says, grinning. "This is not, however, the last this little town has seen of either of us."

With a cry of triumph, he drives the sword down.

[NestroEmichae]

Ilastros, while riding the horse forward and watching the battle ahead of him, suddenly rememeber something. It was something he had been taught long ago. Lichs don't become ghosts.

Out of curiousity, how did you become a ghost? Lichs cannot become ghosts.

"Well, that's just it: I wasn't exactly a lich. I was able to polymorph into one to fool my foes, but I wasn't actually one. I kinda... screwed up the ceremony," Ilyasi said.

You screwed it up? If you're not a lich, what did you become?

"I don't exactly know. I do know that I gained amazing powers over ice after that. But... I still don't exactly know what I became," Ilyasi said.

Great. I'm being haunted by the ghost of a wannabe lich. Ah, well.

[itches]

AS he makes his way back towards Maeko and her young companion, Nicos consider Dem't's words to him.

Stay out of trouble indeed. He is starting to actually act like my father Hmmm.....

Considering how such a thing sat with him, he is bumped out of his thoughts by a large bustle of people move past him. Glancing up, he is just in time to spot Mins, one of the cities most successful cutpurses moving in on the bald woman. As his sight of them is cut off, the bard swings around, anxiously searching the crowd for any other member of Mins’ gang. His heart sinking he spots Julin, Mins' number one Bagman, just before he too disappears into the crowd like an ethereal spirit.

As quickly as possible, Nicos navigates his way through the, impossibly seeming, dense crowd Emerging from the other side, only to find the spot where the monk had stood empty. A quick search about him reveals no trace of her or Elyas.

Well Nicos you old dog, there is only one thing you can say at a time like this.

" shit "

[Gralhruk]

Shade isn't very far away when a scream emerges from the tavern and she pauses, looking back quizzically. Had Cadrius assaulted Paladin? It was possible, given his mood and the right combination of antagonism and guilt.

Her question still isn't answered when the tavern doors crash open; she sinks back into the shadow of a nearby building and watches. Paladin charges out of the bar, commandeers a horse, and rides off followed closely by the blundering half-orc who moves far more quickly than she would have guessed. A third figure, the other one who had been following Paladin like a lost puppy, follows more slowly. Cadrius does not emerge and, resisting the urge to see if he is alright, she decides to let them play their own games for a while. Paladin didn't want her help anyway.

Pulling her hood up she starts off in the direction of the market. She had some coin in her pocket now and there were a couple of things that she could use. When she gets there it is a bustle of activity, the press of bodies tight enough that she is sure the pickpockets are having a field day. Her own purse is secured beneath both cloak and shirt, tucked beneath her weapons belt for extra security. The fool who reached for it would find the business end of her new sword.

[Black Plauge]

"NOOOOO!!!" Blarth screams as he sees the stranger who calls Sir Paladin his brother raise his sword. Charging forward he dives at the man to prevent him from delivering his killing blow, tackling him and driving him away from the prone form of Sir Paladin. As they move, the crystal blood shards that surround them seem to flow around Blarth's body as if diverted by an unseen force.

OOC: Blarth charges and attempts to bull rush. The bloodwraith is involved in a CDG (a full round action) and can't take his AoO. Roll opposed Str checks: Blarth 20+5(Str)+2(charge)=27 Bloodwraith 14+4?(Str)=18. Bloodwraith is pushed back 5+(27-18)=14ft.

[NestroEmichae]

OOC: The following is assuming two rounds have been made.

IC:

Ilastros arrives and sees the orc charging into a mysterious figure. Ilastros hops off the saddle, only to land flat on his face. He hears laughing and knows, from the distant sound of it, that Ilyasi was enjoying herself.

"Bravo, sir knight! Maybe I had better do this. You seem a little inexperienced..." Ilyasi said.

Ilastros then got a flash of something. Something unusual... It was a voice...

The thief known as Shade will flow in on the High Tide
Cadrius the Traitor will once again help those who he turned on.

And then Ilastros realized that the voice was his own, leaving him to wonder just how sane he was...

[LonePaladin]

As the paladin strugges to rise, a robed figure steps into the area, completely ignoring the half-orc and the bloodwraith. Looking down at him, it speaks in a sibliant voice.

"Well, well. I see the reunion has gone well. It's about time you showed up, Calabron Laspeera. I'd wasted too much time fighting to keep control of your brother; all he wanted to do was hunt you down and kill you for betraying him.

"Perhaps, once you've ascended, you two will work together. For once."

The figure raises one hand, and with a snap a glowing field of energy forms around the paladin, lifting him in the air, and wrenching his limbs at painful angles. He screams in agony, but the sound is muffled by the barrier around him. The robed man turns back toward the temple; as he walks, the paladin floats behind him in midair.

"Come, young one. Let's get you outfitted."

[itches]

Slowly making his way through the market, Nicos keeps an eye out for any sign of either Maeko or one of Mins' crew. The crowd keep on shifting, revealing and concealing different faces in turn. But none of the ones he is looking for.

Walking past several booths that contain the good he originally came here for, it is several long minutes before Nicos, gives up finding her anytime soon.

She will probably make her way back to the Inn with Elyas. Still I can't help but worry if something went wrong with the thieves.

Stepping around a short figure in a midnight blue cloak, Nicos takes a good five steps before he realises he has seen that cloak before.

One of the people who came in with Maeko was wearing a cloak like that. Seemed to be about the same hight too

Turning around, the bard searches the press of people behind him for any trace of her.

[Black Plauge]

"Fool! You should not have interfered"

The stranger's voice rings in Blarth's ears as they disengage. Stepping back Blarth ducks as the bloodwraith takes a two-handed swing at his head. The blow slides over Blarth's head as if redirected. The return strike is slowed to a stop a hair's bredth away from Blarth's side. His own lack of a weapon suddenly apparent Blarth steps back and a thin layer of ephemeral goo forms on his skin. His eyes begin to glow with a eiry silver fire. His mouth elongates and his canines enlarge. He stoops forwards and snarls at the opponent before him, "Let's see how you handle youself on more even terms."

OOC: The bloodwraith takes a five-foot step to seperate himself from Blarth (they were both in the same square as a result of the bull rush) and then takes a full-attack action. Rolls: 3+4(Str)+6(BAB)+1(WF)=14 & 11+6=17 vs Blarth's 17 AC (+2 Dex +4 IA +1 Dodge). Blarth takes a five-foot step back and manifests bite of the wolf.

[Gralhruk]

"Looking for someone?"

The low voice comes from behind Nicos, close enough to make him jump. Spinning, he can see the woman he was indeed looking for. She is standing somewhat insolently, arms folded and a dangerous look in her eye.

"You seem overly interested in our little group, especially our foreign friend. I'd like to know why."

[NestroEmichae]

Ilastros got up and looked around. An acolyte came running out, only to suddenly change. She became very tall with pale skin. Ilastros suddenly knew it was Ilyasi.

"We must stop him," She said, pointing at the robed figure.

Ilastros drew his weapon and charged at the robed man. While he was running, four magic missiles soured around him and hit the guy in the back. Ilastros knew that this battle was going to be a hard one as he reached the man, stopping in time to attack.

"I don't know what you plan to be doing with that paladin, fool, but I have other plans for him," Ilyasi said.

[itches]

Spinning where he stands, with his heart jumping into his mouth. Nicos is astonished at the sight before him.

"What? How did you do that?" He asks glancing back over his shoulder.

"You seem overly interested in our little group, especially our foreign friend. I'd like to know why."

"I'm interested in 'your foreign friend' because she is an interesting person. Plus she reminds me of something I thought I had left behind long ago."

Looking Shade up and down, Nicos raises an eyebrow.

"As to the group at large, I'm a bard, and I can smell a tale coming off you like a week old cat. Plus what isn't there to be interested in."

"You have a blind mage, a mysterious man, who claims only the name Paladin and hence gives away his profession. Yourself, someone who is a walking proclamation of a mystery," he says and adding in a try voice. "And seems to be able to move with a inhuman amount of stealth. There is the other large man you have with you, who I have yet to learn much about, but I get the impression that the town guard would very much like to have a word with him."

Taking a breath and looking around, Nicos finishes. "And last there is Maeko, an exotic woman from a far away land, who is trained a form of fighting that is rare unto unheard of in this part of the world. And speaking of her, I don’t suppose you have seen her around have you? I was in the markets with her, but we got separated, and now I cant find a trace of her"

Rushing on before Shade can react, “I’m sure she cant take care of herself should she be attacked, but she is still a stranger in a strange city. I’m worried.”

[LonePaladin]

Ilastros drew his weapon and charged at the robed man. While he was running, four magic missiles soured around him and hit the guy in the back. Ilastros knew that this battle was going to be a hard one as he reached the man, stopping in time to attack.

"I don't know what you plan to be doing with that paladin, fool, but I have other plans for him," Ilyasi said.

The bolts of magical force slam into the his back, but stop there -- instead of exploding with concussive force, they simply hang in place, as if they were lodged into his robe. Barely shaken by the impact, he turns to face Ilastros as he strikes. The weapon glances off the robe, trailing sparks... almost as if the robe were made of the hardest steel.

"Be careful who you call a fool, youngling," the man whispers harshly. "You may find your plans and aspirations falling short. Once I am through with young Laspeera here, you can have him -- what's left, at least. I care not."

With that, the man turns his back on Ilyasi, causing the paladin to swing around into Ilastros's path. The magical missiles are still stuck to the back of his robe, glowing brightly. "Leave me be. The Summoner awaits his charges. Unless you wish to join in, of course."

[Gralhruk]

She eyes the one armed man carefully with narrowed eyes before she relaxes a little. The events of the morning have left her on edge but his answers have a ring of truth to them that takes away some of her anger. In the back of her mind, she had half believed he might have something to do with Maeko's disappearace but she had forgotten the obvious: Maeko could take care of herself. She exhales heavily and some of the tension leaves her body before she smiles wryly at him.

"I might have suspected you of doing her some harm if I didn't know how well she fights. Yes, I suppose we are a strange enough group that we might attract a certain amount of interest."

Interest she would rather avoid. It seemed she might be able to do just that - their unusual group seemed to be splitting up now that they had found civilization. She frowns slightly.

"To answer your question, I haven't seen her since last night. I am not in the habit of rising so early as she, but perhaps we might look for her together. I assume you know this place well enough to help me purchase some supplies."

She studiously avoids any mention of Cadrius and the investigation that is drawing closer to him. She'd offered her help and he had been stubborn about it. For the moment she didn't want to think about what he might do.

[itches]

Examining the young woman who stands before him. On first appearance she seems a pretty enough girl, and you didn't have to look far into her eyes to see how intriguing she is. But there was also a dangerous quality to her that made him weary. She reminded the bard of nothing so much as a fine quality dagger. Elegant, beautiful, yet treat her the wrong was, and she will make you bled.

Then as she grins, the dangerous quality seemed to fade into the background, and Nicos found himself grinning back.

Ahh watch out Nicos, never forget just how dangerous she is , a dry rational voice spoke in his mind.

Dangerous yes, but danger just adds spice to life , Nicos replied.

That me be correct, but consider this. You can't have any fun if your dead

Snapping out of his internal conversation as he realises she is speaking to him, Nicos quickly laughs.

"No, I doubt I would be able to do much harm to anyone these days," Nicos says gesturing at where is left arm should have been as the lie passes his lips. Ever since I lost it, I haven’t been the same in a fight."

Pursing his lips as Shade makes her suggestion that they look together, the bard nods.

"Aye looking together should be good, and chances are I know of where to get your supplies. Or knows someone who knows. Firstly I don’t believe we have been introduced," Nicos says holding out his hand.

"Nicos and you are?"

[Gralhruk]

The frown returns as introductions become the order of the day. She hesitates only a moment, still unwilling to share her real name and not quite sure why. Maybe she felt strange sharing this detail with someone she didn't know when the people she had travelled and fought beside still didn't know it.

"Yes, I believe you said that last night. Around here people just call me Shade and I guess we shouldn't go confusing them with something different."

She took a moment more to appraise him and decided that even without an arm the man was far from harmless. Still, she could use someone to show her around and he seemed amiable enough.

"So you're a bard. Let's see if we can keep the singing to a minimum for now. My head still hurts from last night."

[itches]

Noting how the shadows seem to lay about her, even out in the relative open like this, Nicos smiles more.

"Shade huh? It suits."

Turning and gesturing to the wide markets around them Nicos arches an eyebrow.

"So Shade, what supply’s did you need? And I’ll promise to keep the songs down, if you tell me how you managed to sneak up on me like that. I swear no one should have been able to do that"

[Gralhruk]

"It's easy: people don't absorb every detail of what's around them - they can't process all they see and hear. You only see and hear what stands out from the background; I just make sure I don't stand out and people do the rest all on their own."

Looking him over she got the impression that he knew the streets well enough to know the kind of people she needed to meet - honest and otherwise - for the things she wanted to do. He didn't seem likely to quibble over things that were less than law-abiding, either, and that was good. She wanted to be done quickly and finding those things out herself would take time.

"As for supplies, I can use some healing elixir if there is any to be had in this town. Plus some alchemical goods, antitoxins, and more mundane stuff like rations and clothing. I've got a fine set of lockpicks that I'd like to sell, also. Maybe you know a buyer or two."

[Black Plauge]

"I would hardly call this even," the bloodwraith claims as he steps forward swinging his sword again. However, his words prove false as his sword cuts into the ground at Blarth's side, no where near to damaging the half-orc. Grinning in a wolfish manner, Blarth lunges forward at the shaken bloodwraith and snaps, taking a bite of his shoulder. The wound however, doesn't bleed like normal. Instead more of those blood shards appear to emerge from the wound and begin to circle the wraith.

[NestroEmichae]

Ilastros, fully prepared to fight, channeled a bit of his power into his sword. The sword began to glow a little bit, but that was not what got his attention. For a brief moment, Ilyasi had vanished and the acolyte was herself again. The Ilyasi was back, as she was before she vanished.

What is going on? This can't be happening.

"I have no beef with you, mage, other than the fact that I have a use for that mortal. I am willing to make a deal with you. I will trade my assistant, the one who decided to cast a spell on you, for the one you have. And then, once he has served my purpose and helped me kill one who has stolen from me, I will deliver him to you myself and allow you to keep my assistant to do with as you wish," Ilastros said.

"What are you doing, master? How can you make such an evil deal?!?" Ilyasi asked, terror in her voice.

"Shut up, girl. I told you magic was useless against him and you chose to use it anyway," Ilastros said, anger in his voice.

"I had to try, master!" Ilyasi squealed.

"Anyway, I'm sure a powerful mage like yourself can wait a little while. It shall not take me long to find that person, as all of my information says that this mortal knows where he is. I hope you forgive the sword attack: I knew it was useless, but I also needed to get your attention. If such a deal is amicable to you, as you gain two servants for the price of letting one be borrowed, plus I will owe you a favor, then we can make the exchange now and, after I get my revenge, we can both go back to what we were doing and be on our ways," Ilastros said.

[itches]

"Food is no problem, any number of the venders about us sell compact and preserved food. For Elixors and whatnot, you will need Dingub, a Gnome who has a stand on the other side of the market. You can get most anything there from healing potions to poisons to some items of small magical ability. Its a strictly no questions asked business, you don’t ask where he got it from and he doesn't ask what your going to do with it."

"Clothing is all together simpler. There are only two real choices, Glenis Greenhill's second-hand stall, Most of the clothes there are from adventurers who didn't make it and are cheaper, and Gilpost Hephin's stall. She makes the clothes herself, they are good quality, but slightly more expensive then the norm."

"The lock picks you could probably sell to Fini's 'junk' store, and you could most likely find anything else you want there. Unless that is those lock picks are of especially good quality, in which case we could find someone with a more direct use for them."

Once again motioning at the markets around him, Nicos asks. "Which one first?"

[LonePaladin]

For just a moment, the robed figure seems to be inclined to argue the point. Finally, he says, "Agreed. In the end, I will still have him. Make sure he is still in reasonable condition when you're done, or you will replace him."

With a gesture, the field surrounding the paladin vanishes. The paladin collapses to the ground, unmoving. The robed figure tosses a medallion onto the paladin's back.

"When you're done with him, just break this. I will come for him then."

He then points at the bloodwraith -- who is currently being gnawed on by a feral-looking half-orc -- and speaks a word of power. A purple glow surrounds the mage and his pet warrior, and both begin to fade into nothingness.

[Black Plauge]

Seeing his opponent begin to fade, Blarth makes one last lunge at him only to pass through the faded figure and fall, thrown off-balance by the lack of resistance. Standing up he turns to face the temple and notices that Sir Paladin is several feet closer to the shrine than when he had gone down. However, there do not appear to be any further threats and the guardsmen are begining to reappear with swords drawn.

Moving towards the prone form of Sir Paladin, Blarth is intercepted by a couple of guards who block the way with their swords.

"You'll not be harming that one now, you monster," one of them says in a menacing tone of voice.

Blarth hesitates, his concern for Sir Paladin fighting with his desire to avoid conflict with the guards.

[NestroEmichae]

Ilastros walked over to the human and picked up the medallion. The guards wanted to move to stop him, but the glare Ilyasi gave them stopped them where they were. The magi missiles had vanished when Ilyasi did, apparently nothing more than a part of the same power that made her, although no one noticed it.

Ilastros looked up and saw some guards threatening the orc. He almost decided to let them have their fun, but instead decided to help him. After all, the orc was the key to killing Trak.

"Leave him alone. If it wasn't for him, I would never have been able to save this person here," Ilastros said.

"You call what you did saving him?" one of the guards asked.

"He's still here, isn't he? He could be off elsewhere by now," Ilastros said.

"What about that deal you made?" the guards asked.

"That is between me, the mage, and the one I was trading for. It does not concern you and I would advise you to stay out of it. Otherwise, my assistant will show you her real power," Ilastros said.

The guards backed off from him, even more afraid now. Ilastros looked and Ilyasi and saw that she had taken on draconic characteristics. That was what probably was scaring the guards most.

"Also, leave the orc alone. He is a trusted friend of the human's and is someone I will deal with if he intends harm," Ilastros said.

Don't tell me I will have to fight my way out of this.

"Don't bother. A simple spell from me and they will be long forgotten," Ilyasi's voice said in the back of Ilastros's head.

Whenever you say to not worry is when I begin to get worried.

[NestroEmichae]

The guards advanced menacingly. Ilastros stood in a defensive position with his sword, hoping to manage to get out of this one alive.

Ilyasi called up a giant red dragon, probably mature or older. The guards, seemingly fearful of the creature stepped back. Then one guard stepped forward and swiped at it with his sword, causing the illusion to disappear.

The guards chose to charge at that point. Ilyasi found herself busy with most of them, while Ilastros seemed to only have one. Two of the guards blocked off the orc and the final one grabbed the human to take him elsewhere.

In the direction of Ilyasi the sounds of whistling as blades cleaved solid air, coupled with the occasional clang or groan, were the sounds of battle. With Ilastros and the guard the sounds were mostly clangs as the two exchanged blows for a few seconds. The guard with the human was standing still, waiting on his comrades before doing anything.

Ilastros swung his sword hard, only to be surprised. He totally missed his foe and the sword, under too much momentum to be held onto, flew across the field and struck the horse between the eyes, knocking the beast out cold. The guard he was fighting suddenly seemed a little unsure of himself about whether or not to fight an unarmed man.

Ilyasi solved the problem by tossing a sword to Ilastros, which she had gotten from one of her guards. Ilastros, noting the strange feel of the sword, swung with all of his might again. This time, the sword flew across the battlefield and imbedded itself in the forehead of the guard beside the human, killing him instantly. Ilastros's foe chose to drop his sword at this point.

Ilyasi tossed Ilastros a third sword, gotten much like the one before. Ilastros dodged a punch and swung with all of his might again. This time the sword flew across the battlefield and imbedded itself in a tree.

"This is going to hurt, isn't it?" Ilastros asked.

"Yep," the guard said.

Then the guard punched him, knocking Ilastros out in one hit. Ilyasi said "shit" before vanishing. The acolyte found herself back in control again, just in time to be beheaded by the guard in front of her.

"We had better take them in for questioning. Also, find out where that one magic user went. We need to capture her before she can cause any problems," the guard that knocked out Ilastros said.

[Gralhruk]

"The picks I have are not for a novice so I think they'd fetch a better price from a more experienced buyer. We can do that later, though. Let's see to the more mundane first."

Shade accompanies Nicos to all manner of shops, spending some of her newly acquired wealth for two sets of well made clothing along with an excellent set of cold weather gear. After taking a few measurements the woman Gilpost promises to have it all ready on the morrow; several extra coins having shortened the duration from her original estimate of a week. She also purchases a good many items suitable for travel - foodstuffs, bandages, oil, flint, sunrods, and other small but useful things.

The gnome is altogether helpful, if overly secretive, when she bids for several potions of a healing nature. After a brief bit of haggling and a few timely words from Nicos the little man parts with his goods for a reasonable amount.

Things have taken a goodly amount of time and the afternoon is waning with still no sight of Maeko. Even Shade is beginning to wonder if the young monk has found some trouble though she says nothing to her talkative companion. For some reason she already links Maeko and Nicos together. She found herself liking the man in spite of the similarities between himself and Itches.

Thinking of her companions unwillingly brings Cadrius to mind. He was still with Paladin when she had stormed out of the bar and she wonders what he is doing and if she is at all among his thoughts. She shouldn't have left but at the same time she didn't want to think of what he might be up to; he had hinted he may turn himself in and that pained her. A curious look from Nicos brings her back to the present.

"You have been most helpful. There is only the matter of a buyer for these - ", she indicates the lockpicks, " - and then my business here is finished. You are welcome to half of whatever price they fetch, much more than the usual finder's fee I know, but you deserve something for wasting a whole day on me."

[Black Plauge]

Blarth is dismayed as the conflict between the stranger and the guards degenerates into violence. As the fight progresses though the guards become increasingly distracted by its progress and Blarth is able to work his way over to Sir Paladin's body on the ground. Upon examining Sir Paladin, Blarth realizes that he is still alive but unconcious. Seeing the medalion on Sir Paladin's belt he turns to look at the symbol above the shrine's door.

This must be the local shrine to Sir Paladin's god. He should be taken inside, maybe someone in there can help him.

Lifting Sir Paladin's body effortlessly off the ground Blarth slings it over his shoulder and procedes to carry him towards the door. A timid private, that until this point had been hiding behind a water barrel to the side of the building notices Blarth action and approches with sword drawn.

"What are you doing? Don't you realize that the temple isn't necessarily safe? Your actions seem to indicate that you care for this one's well being but you are bringing this one into the very place that appeared to be the target of the man you faught."

Turning to the guard Blarth can see the honesty in his face and turns to move away from the shrine saying as he does so, "Sir Paladin here is a member of the order whose shrine this is. You can see the medalion on his belt. He is in need of help. Watch over him and I will check the building." Laying the body down gently by the barrel the young guard had been using for cover, Blarth turns back to the shrine and makes his way through the door as Ilastros is knocked out.

As he enters the shrine he finds the bodies of several alcolytes and squires scattered around the entryway. Most have a longsword nearby indicating that they died fighting. As he makes his way through the anteroom Blarth finds a total of 10 bodies, 8 adults and two children. Inside the main worship chamber there are more bodies, few of these however have weapons at hand. They appear to have been caught off guard, unable to defend themselves as the creature of death moved through their midst.

Finding no one alive here either, Blarth moves towards the living chambers. The dormatories remind Blarth of the barracks at the other end of the town. These rooms, unlike the other two, are deserted. However, there are sounds coming from the back room of the living quaters. Making his way cautiously back there Blarth finds two alcolytes and a priest, all armed with longswords, standing in front of a chained prisoner...

"Trak!" Blarth calls on seeing his brother in chains.

"Stay back monster, we will not allow you to take our charge," the priest calls to Blarth, bradishing his sword menacingly.

"Yes," says a voice from behind, "You shall not interfere with the process of justice here." Blarth turns to find a string of guardsmen behind him, standing with pikes at the ready. Helpless to act Blarth stands dejected as more guardsman file into the room. "I was just trying to make sure everyone was all right. Sir Paladin needs help and that guardsman said that the building wasn't safe. I came in to check it out and find the only people alive guarding my brother. What is going on here?"

"This currsed orc stands accused of a triple murder. He will stand trial for that crime and be punished accordingly," the priest declares haughtily, "As for this, 'Sir Paladin', what says we would help an aquatiance of yours no matter what name you would call him?"

"But he has a medallion with the symbol of your order on his belt," Blarth almost whines.

"Guardsman, what guardsman?" the lead guard asks, "That brave man's body was last seen in your posession as you headed into the temple. What have you done with him?"

[NestroEmichae]

Ilastros woke up instantly. He had been lying on the ground where he had been dropped. The guards were gone, leaving behind nothing. As Ilastros stood up he realized he had been stripped of armor and was wearing a set of travelor's clothes. Ilyasi was nowhere to be seen.

"'Bout time you woke up. I've been waiting on you," a female voice said.

Ilastros looked at the source and saw that it was the female elf from the bar. She was only two inches above five feet with wheat-colored hair and eyes like an ocean. He had the feeling that they changed as her mood did, although they showed no sign of it.

"How long have I been out?" Ilastros said.

"Four hours. When that army left, they left behind the man by the temple. I checked on him when I arrived and he was alright. However, the army sacked the temple. I don't even know if anyone survived," she said.

"Damn. Have you seen an orc around here? He may have been carrying the paladin," Ilastros said.

"He went into the temple four hours ago. I haven't seen him since. To be perfectly honest, I've been here dealing with you and not much concerned about what is going on around me," she said.

"Great. So, if we are traveling together, what shall I call you?" Ilastros asked.

"Shiva. How about you?" she asked.

"Call me Yendi," Ilastros said.

[itches]

Grinning at Shade, Nicos speaks with a put of voice of the upper classes.

"My dear lady, your generosity is as abundant as your beauty," dropping the voice, "and as bad as my jokes. Besides I did a little of my own shopping today, "The bard continues." And you are good company."

Considering the matter for a moment, Nicos half speaks to himself, and half to shade.

"I know of a small group of people who ... as we shall say, earn their bread through an unusual means. Groups such as this are fairly rare in this city, as the guards, clamp down on them very easily. Still they have survived this long, so they are good enough to not be too good, if you understand."

As Nicos says this he starts leading his shorter companion back through the markets, once again resuming his habit of telling the odd bad joke, and stories that are so ridiculous that you just have to laugh. This continues unabated, until they are almost on the other side of the Markets, and a bellow of a voice Yells out.

"NICOS!!!"

Turning the two see a giant of a man. 6'6, with a bushy red beard, almost a match for the colour his face had turned as he stalks his way over to where they are.

"This should be fun," Nicos mumbles to his companion.

Pointing at Nicos he speaks again, this time at a moderately lower volume.

"Aright you scum sucking orc. I heard what you did to my wife!"

Putting on a look of shock and false innocence, Nicos speak in one of his most annoying voices.

"What I did to her? My good man, what about what she did to me? I should of sought damages! She ruined a perfectly good tunic when she ripped it off me, and then the teeth marks!! . Well no real reason to go there"

His face turning even redder, the man charges at Nicos with a roar, reaching out to grab at the bard's head. Laughing mockingly, the bard easily ducks it, taking a step to the side, with a grim look on his face.


((OOC: who cares about inititive. Shade goes next, followed by Nicos))

[Gralhruk]

Her hand is beneath her cloak and on the hilt of her sword before the echoes of the man's first bellow die out. She pivots easily out of the way, still not drawing her blade, as the man approaches. Her lips press into a thin line as he rails at Nicos for indiscretions with his wife.

Why am I not surprised?

The bard easily dodges the man's clumsy lunge but the red haired giant recovers quickly. Suddenly worried about the one armed man's chances she takes a long stride opposite Nicos, drawing her sword as she goes. It flickers in the fading light as she turns it, the flat striking the man across the base of the skull with a resounding crack. He drops like a stone, dust pluming as he hits the ground. She raises an eyebrow at Nicos as the blade disappears beneath her cloak.

"Friend of yours? Let's get going, and quickly."

[itches]

Looking down at where the large man had fallen, a flash of rage crawls across his face. Kicking out savagely, Nicos spits out at the man.

"Just because I only have one arm, doesn't mean I am any less of a man."

Turning and striding off, it is a long minute before Nicos says anything. When he does, his voice is rueful.

"I really should have got some money. That was a really nice tunic."

With a wink a Shade, Nicos Gins.

"Strange that we havn't seen any guards about. They usualy zero in on a fight like a bea to as flower."

Stoping abuptly, he motions with his head at a beggar sitting on the corner up ahead.

"We need to talk to him if you want to sell your lock-pick set."

[Gralhruk]

Her brows knit at the bard's display of anger. Apparently his wound ran deeper than he preferred to let on. It crosses her mind that his interest in the other man's wife might have more to do with satisfying his ego than anything else.

"Let us be thankful we remain unnoticed."

She follows him to the beggar and they deal in hushed tones, finally settling on a price of 140 gold for the set. It wasn't a bad price though she might have held out for more if she'd been in more of a mind to bargain. The beggar deftly produced the coins from beneath his cloak, the sizable hump of his hunchback slightly diminished when he had finished. She empties about half of the gold into her purse and presses the rest of the pouch in Nicos' remaining hand.

"Buy yourself a new cloak. It seems I'm out of things to do, and we still have no sign of our friend. Mayhap she has gone back to the inn; I must go there in any case to collect the rest of my belongings. Care to come along?"

[Cadrius]

Cadrius turns his head to the side and avoids the spray of water as Paladin forcibly removes it from his hand. Time seems to slow down and he sees it travel toward the wall before it shatters, sending bits of ceramic everywhere. The water cascades to the floor in both streams and drops. Just as the first makes contact with the well-worn floor time resumes its normal progress and he turns his head back to meet Paladin's fiery gaze.

His eyes...what could cause this?

He shakes his head slowly, remaining silent as scarlet-eyed paladin makes his way out of the tavern, followed shortly by the half-orc. There is something in the back of his mind, an elusive thought that refuses to be held down for examination. Had he heard of this before? He wasn't sure, but it did seem vaguely familiar.

He slowly comes to his feet for his mind is still attempting to decipher the puzzle at hand. He raises the mug of ale in his left hand and takes a long pull from it. Perhaps Paladin is some sort of mad prohpet, who sees the future and might manipulate the outcome with that knowledge. Yet this does not seem to ring true as he had not displayed such information in the past. It had not been Paladin but Shade who had rescued Cadrius and the blind wizard from the caves.

The thought brings a slight smile to his face and he wonders where the enigmatic assassin is. Finishing the rest of his ale in one gulp he places the mug down on the counter and leaves the barmaid another gold piece for her troubles.

One hand absent-mindedly checks that his dagger is still sheathed at his belt. He should see her before he goes to the church, before he went to "do something stupid." The thought brings a second smile to the fallen paladin's face, but there is little joy there. Sadness pools in his light eyes as he steps outside and into the night.

[Black Plauge]

Desperately Blarth tries to explain, "There was this guardsman hiding behind a waterbarrel that said the temple wasn't safe yet and that I shouldn't bring Sir Paladin's body in here until it was checked out because it was from inside that the strange people appeared from whom we faught."

Confused as he was by the content of Blarth's plea the lead guard hears a ring of truth in the half-orc's voice and turns to the priest who nods in confirmation.

"Although I little understand what exactly is going on here I know you speak the truth," he then turns to the other guards and says, "Spread out and begin searching around the temple for the rest of the guards, and take a head count; living, dead, and wounded, I want to know who took that man's body and where it is. If you find it bring it here. Now go!"

With that the guards rush out of the room leaving Blarth the alcolytes and the lead guard alone with Trak.

"But what about my brother?" Blarth whines.

"He has been accused of murder and must stand trial. The zone of truth which is imbued in this temple allows us to tell only that he beleives he did not commit murder. However, his drunken state on the night of his arrest could mean that he did so and does not remember it."

"THAT'S NOT TRUE," Trak yells from his cell. "I have never had a drunken blackout in all my life."

"Unfortunately the zone of truth only allows us to know that you beleive that to be true," the lead guard replies. We have no other way of verifying that statement." Turning back to Blarth the guard continues. "Your brother's trial is on the marrow, if you wish to be present come to the townhall at noon." With that the guard spins on his heel and leaves the temple to take care of the search for Paladin's body and the missing guardsman.

After the guard has left the priest motions one of the alcolytes back to his post guarding the prisoner and indicates to the other that he should go begin cleaning the sanctuary. He then escorts Blarth to one of the other living quarters and says, "You claimed that the man who is missing was a member of our order. Pray tell, do you happen to know his name?"

"I know him as Sir Paladin, but the old man controling the creature I fought called him Calabron Laspeera. I know not whether that is his true name."

"Calabron Laspeera?!? If it is him we must find him quickly. He may be our only hope of discovering what happened at Altura, where he and the two whom you faught today came from."

The priest then rushes from the temple leaving a very bewildered Blarth standing there unsure of what to do.

[itches]

Hefting the bag of gold, Nicos smiles at Shade.

”Your generosity leaves me deep in your debt, this is easily a weeks earnings for me. Yes shall we return, tell me, do you have any immediate plans for the future?”

[Gralhruk]

She slows her pace as they walk, his question drifting through her mind. What, exactly, were her plans?

"I need to get out of that inn. I don't suppose you know anywhere else I might stay. It doesn't need to be nice - just . . . unobtrusive."

She catches his inquiring look and shakes her head.

"No, no. it's nothing like that. I'm not in any trouble or anything. I just don't like the environment. After that, I'm not really sure but I don't think I'll be here for very long."

No reason to stay but nowhere to go either.

[Black Plauge]

After several moments of indecision Blarth follows the priest out of the temple to aid in the search for Sir Paladin. He starts by heading over to the water barrel where he left Sir Paladin's body with the guardsman. The ground however is so muddled that it would take an expert tracker to make sense of the markings and Blarth doesn't even qualify as a novice.

As he stands and looks about a shiny object catches Blarth's eye. Stooping to pick it up he discovers it to be Sir Paladin's medallion. As he picks it up he notices the priest engaged in discussion with the lead guard at the door of the temple and heads over to them.

"I found this! Its Sir Paladin's medalion! It must have dropped from his belt when I put him down."

The priest only glances at the medalion before taking it from Blarth and conceling it in the folds of his robe. "The less you handle that the better. Perhaps I can use it to obtain a fix on Calabron's position." With that the priest turns and heads back into the temple. The head guard then turns to Blarth and says, "You have been a great help, but my men can handle things from here. In the meantime you should make yourself scarce as your appearence will frighten the populace."

Realizing he still looked somewhat wolfish, Blarth bowed his head and headed back to the inn to wait for the effects of the power to wear off.


Meanwhile back in the temple...

The now head priest Kulper makes his way over to the back corner of the sanctuary. After a quick glance to make sure no one is watching he presses one of the many lightening bolts which decorate the walls, revealing a hidden staircase. Entering quickly he closes the door behind him, leaving no trace of its existance from the outside.

Kulper procedes down the hidden stairs to unnaturally lighted room where he finds an elderly man shrugging himself out of a guard uniform obvioulsy designed for one much younger than himself.

"How is Laspeera?" the priest asks.

"Still unconcious, and unlikely to know the trouble it cost me to aquire him. My spells do not have the panache they once did, it is fortunate that the simpleton orc was the one to grab his body."

"All is well then. We will keep him here until we find a way to deal with this matter. This room is free from scrying eyes and will be safe. Cartin, I will call if I have need of your aid again."

"That is all fine and good, but remember you owe me now," the wizard declares as he disappears with a pop, leaving the priest to reply to empty air, "This small favor doesn't even begin to balance your debt."

Seeing his friend gone, the priest shakes his head bemused, this conversation has obviously taken place before.

"Well, Calabron Laspeera, you and your brother have managed to create quite a stir around here. Hopefully we can rectify it before too much damage is done.

<OOC: Calabron's tale continues in Subchapter 5a - The Bloodwraith (http://www.online-roleplaying.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=1777).>

[Cadrius]

The night air is cold upon his face and the stars glimmer and dance overhead. He walks. Yet he does not move quickly for he is in no hurry to turn himself in. The bemused expression upon his face is gone, it fled only to be replaced by guilt, anger, and frustration. He goes as if he were any other man going for an evening stroll. However within him a war rages and the stakes are very high indeed.

Shades whisper to him, cooing softly, telling him to ignore his conscience, to ignore the wrongs he has done. They try and coax him into agreeing, and there is no small part of him that wants to. Yet amidst the darkness there is a small point of light, the last vestiges of his conscience, of his soul. It rails against the evil around it fighting against the shadow. It is losing. It has been losing for a long time.

As a paladin Cadrius never needed to worry about knowing what was right and what was wrong. Heironeous was there to tell him, to guide him, and to keep him on the path of righteousness. After being cast down his conscience was forced to work again, but it has been too long and it cannot find a firm foothold.

It seems so easy to give in, and perhaps he would if not for the persistant tug from his conscience. It pesters him and manages to hold the shadows at bay, but every struggle becomes more despate, and every battle is closer than the last.

Yet hope remains, but from the most unusual source. Shade. Unlike those that whisper to him this one, this woman, helps keep him balanced. It is a precarious position, but she keeps him from falling into darkness. Yet she is not the pinnacle of goodness, far from it. She seems more inclined to serve her own ends before helping someone she does not know or care for. Even her name, Shade, suggests that she would be a poor influence upon him and yet she is not. She bears both the light and the dark.

Buildings pass as he moves down the street and he shoves his hands in his pockets to avoid the cold. The nights are very cold and very long now and tonight it is the longest of the year. It is the solstice.

Come, a shade beckons, those men deserved it. You tried to reason with them, but they attacked you. Even then you didn't try to kill them like any other would have. You only killed them when they tried to kill you.

A small, but deep voice replies inside of his head, What of the third? He has killed many but none like that. That one no longer wanted any quarrel.

None? the shade taunts, Are you certain?

There is a long silence, the only noise made are the steady footfalls as Cadrius strides ever-closer to the temple.

That...that was a different circumstance. He will bear the scars of it for the rest of his life, the small voice answers at last.

You suffer too much, the shade returns its attention to Cadrius' being, you could end all of it right now. Just give in.

Yes, give in, another shade joins, followed by a second, and then a third before a chorus of shades all whispering, beckoning, pleading, and wheedling in their attempts to bring Cadrius over.

His conscience tries to tell him something, but it is drowned out by the cacaphony of darkness.

GIVE IN! GIVE IN!. It has become a chant now.

Cadrius clutches his head and stumbles down a nearby alley. The voices continuing their seductive chant. He staggers against the wall of a building, one arm keeping him upright while the other remains clenching the side of his face.

He draws in one shuddering breath and releases it in an piercing scream.

"ENOUGH!"

The shades are taken aback and fall silent. Again there is no sound but this time Cadrius's ragged breath is all that can be heard.

He rests for a while, his eyes half-closed from fatigue before speaking. His voice is soft but it needs no volume for it to carry to its audience.

"I will do this. I have already decided to. Leave me be."

He pushes against the building and comes to his feet. He still leans against the structure for support but it is not long before he takes one step, and then another. The battle has been decided and his conscience remains alive, for now.

He walks for a time and thinks of nothing. His mind is blissful in the silence, content to bask in it while his conscience rests and attempts to recover some of its strength. It is hopeful that Cadrius is turning against the darkness, but it knows this is but a tempoarary reprieve.

The temple suddenly looms in his vision and he stops for a moment, looking at it but not recognizing it for what it is. How long had it been since he had seen one of these? Two years? Three? And how long had it been since he had set foot in one? He wasn't sure, but it was long enough for his tastes.

He brushes dirt off of his pantlegs before straightening his shoulders and back. If he was to turn himself in, he would at least be presentable.

His fist freezes as he goes to knock upon the heavy wooden door. This is his last chance. He could escape, flee to another town or wherever he might choose. No one would ever know, no one but him and Shade. The shades within him are hopeful and begin to stir again.

Cadrius looks up to the stars, looking for answers, silently pleading for a response. The stars wink but remain silent.

There is a heavy thud as his fist pounds three times against the door. Moment pass before it is opened by an acolyte, Cadrius recognizes him by the simple white robe.

"Fetch your Highpriest," Cadrius says grimly, "I am here to turn myself in."

The acolyte looks at him wide-eyed in shock for a moment before hastening away to the depths of the temple. Cadrius remains on the threshold a moment longer before taking a deep breath and stepping inside.

The door swings shut with a muffled thud.

[Cadogan Trahem]

A powerful rumble followed by an Explosion without sight of flames in any direction shakes the entire town. Guards rush to their stations to find out where or how the explosion happened. Fearing the worst, drunkards mention Orcs. Soon the rumours spread and the entire city is in panic from "legions of Orcs with great war machines".

Many people make made dashes for items for what they think will be the last minutes of their lives, and soon total anarchy has taken hold of the city.

[itches]

Tucking the pouch away and running his hand through his hair Nicos quickly considers Shades question.

"I don’t know any of the other Inns as well as the one you’re currently in, that owner and I have a nice arrangement. Still the order of Jupel -The Travel god, maintains some keep hostels a block away from The Inn. It's reputed to be cheep and clean, but more importantly it is private and safe from the more ... unsavoury types. I can’t say out of experience, I've never stayed there."

Taking a long hard look at the woman next to him, Nicos quickly looks away with a smile as she meets his gaze.

"So tell me what are you running from?" Seeing a dangerous look flash in her eyes Nicos quickly backtracks.

"My apologies, that was a personal question and I had no right to ask it. Blazes as far as I know you just have the itch to move on. That's something I know all too well. I've been in one place for too long, my feet are starting to get restless."

Giving her a wry, knowing smile comments. "Though no doubt after a little of wondering I’ll be just as eager to settle down again"

[Cadrius]

The foyer of the temple is almost as dark as the streets. Flames from three lone candles are all that illuminate the cold, stone features inside. His eyes are already adjusted to the darkness but most of the room remains cloaked in shadows that move and dance as the candles flicker.

The footsteps of the acolyte quickly fade and Cadrius finds himself slowly pacing about the room, trying to study some of the interior. For the most part it's cold and efficient, just the way some of Heironeous' priests are, just the way He can be. However there are several tapestries adorning the walls. In the dim lighting he can see a man fully covered in armor except for his head. He seems to be wearing a circlet of some sort and is charging into battle on a horse, his sword is raised above his head and he wears some sort of expression on his face. Is it anger? Fear? Triumph? Cadrius isn't sure and likely it doesn't matter, if it's glorious battle then Heironeous will be pleased.

He turns to the next tapestry and finds an altogether different scene. There is a man, he could be the same as the one before, he's tall, with dark hair and eyes, and he kneels before a woman. Even in the low light Cadrius can tell that she is radiant in her beauty. Indeed the artist seemed rather taken with her himself as there is a great attention to detail. But what is occuring here? Is she some sort of Queen? Perhaps, but there doesn't seem to be any court around her. And what is he doing? Paying homage? Declaring his courtly love? Either way it's chivalry and that's the other side to Heironeous. Death, glory, battle, and love, honor, and chivalry. It makes for one very interesting deity and thus his followers always seem to walk the fine line between perfection and insanity. It is not an easy task to keep so many conflicting interests and views in one's head.

His inspection of the painting is interrupted by a someone clearing their throat behind him. Cadrius straightens and turns around to look upon what can only be the Highpriest. It is difficult to tell the age of the man in the near-darkness. However Cadrius suspects that even if it were noon-time at the height of summer he still wouldn't be able to give an accurate estimate. He looks weary and this seems to add years to his frame. Yet the priests of Heironeous all seemed remarkable in the fact that after twenty five or thirty summers it became increasingly difficult to tell how old they really were and this one was clearly no exception.

"Yes?" the Highpriest asks his voice tired but his eyes sharp, "what is it? Young Acolyte Hale disturbed my evening prayers and said that some frightening man was here to confess. So what is it, son? Steal some sheep? Take the innocence of some farmer's daughter?"

Cadrius openly winces at the questions.

"Come on, out with it, we've had a busy evening and I don't have time to waste on an idiot," he seems irritable but Cadrius cannot guess what could have already happened.

He takes a deep, shuddering breath and speaks slowly and simply. "I am here to confess the murder of the three men that were found yesterday. It is a somewhat complicated situation but it was self-defense and I am here to accept what punishment might be in store for me."

The Highpriest remains silent for a moment and studies Cadrius, taking his measure. "We already have a suspect, son, and one without any decent alibi. I'd advise you go home and have a pint or two and forget any nonesense of confessing for a crime you didn't commit."

Cadrius looks at him a moment longer, and the shades return pleading with him to return to the inn, to get drunk, and to maybe kill again. They relish death, particularily if it is done face to face so that they might look in the victim's eyes as they die.

"Subject me to the Tests," he says looking the man in his gray eyes. He unfastens the dagger from his belt and hands it to the man hilt-first. "I think you'll find this will fit as the murder weapon."

The Highpriest's eyes flash dangerously at the mention of the ritual of learning the truth of a crime. "How do you know of the Test?"

"Does it matter?" he asks, his voice now full of weariness, "I killed three men, I am here to confess, I suggest you at least take me into custody Highpriest..."

"Kulper."

"Kulper, good. I am Cadrius. I would at least know my jailor's name."

The man nods simply and leads him further into the temple, and down the stairs, into the dungeon and into the darkness.

[Gralhruk]

Her stomach churns unpleasantly as Nicos chatters about different accomodations; she glares at him unconciously when he asks about her reasons for leaving. What would he think if he knew? A dead dwarf, a live human and more regrets than seemed prudent.

Her teeth tingle a little and then there is a concussion that seems to rock the entire world; the horizon spins crazily for a moment and she clenches her vibrating teeth, her empty stomach threatening to heave.

"What the hell was that?"

Chaos erupts around them and she appraises Nicos with grim satisfaction: at least the bard was stout enough to keep his head. She ducks into an alley and puts her back to the wall, eying the unruly mobs in the street coldly.

"We'd best get back to the inn; things will likely get uglier here before they get better."

[itches]

Following closely on Shade's heels, Nicos also turns to view the swarming mob out in the streets.

"I don’t know what that was, but your right, we need to back to the Inn. If things keep going like they are out there, it wont be long until the people start looting."

Glancing up and down the alleyway, the bard motions with his head towards the general direction of the Inn.

"Come-on, we can't risk getting caught in that thing, especial in the town guard decides to put a stop to it. I think I can get us there through some back streets ... maybe"

Turning and jogging away from the through fair they had been in when the earthquake occurred, Nicos quickly and surely leads Shade through a practical Maze off backstreets, alley ways, occasionally taking a short cut over a small fence.

The only moment of danger came, when they were taking a short cut through what looked to be someone's yard, and a man wielding a meat cleaver, and screaming incompressible attacked them, who Nicos quickly put down with en elbow to the neck. After checking that the man was still alive, that bard winked at Shade.

"Two attacks in one day, I didn't know the people here hated me so much."

Without waiting for a reply he was off again, only stopping when they reached a trash filled Dead-end alley. Gasping for breath after the run, and struggling to shove an empty crate aside, with one hand, Nicos explains.

"We ... need to get ... across the street ... and I don’t want ... to chance it. So we use this little ... shortcut. If the ... owners knew ... that I knew about ... this passage ... they would gladly ... slit my thought"

[Black Plauge]

Now restored to his normal state, Blarth is in his room at the inn when the entire room seems to be rocked by the hand of Gruumsh himself. Trak's armor, which Blarth had so carefully polished and laid out the night before is nocked from its perch on the trunk at the foot of the bed and falls to the floor with a loud rattle. Blarth himself bites his tounge in the shaking as he is knocked off his bed. After the shaking has died down Blarth rushes to the common room of the in to see what happened and finds the scene in chaos. Mugs of ale, bottles of wine, and bowls of stew have been spilled all over the place. One serving wench lies near the bar having fainted in a swoon. The innkeeper lies in the firepit with a large gash on his forhead. Blarth rushes over to him and, after pulling him out of the hearth, uses the man's apron to clumsily bind his head wound. After checking on the other patrons and the fainted serving wench Blarth then moves to the door to try and determine the cause of the disturbance.

Out in the street everything is in chaos. Spooked animals bolt down the street in every direction. People are running about, some after the animals, some with what look to be their most prized possesions, some with whatever weapon they could lay their hands on, and some with goods that probably didn't belong to them before the chaos began. Several times Blarth attempts to stop someone to ask what is happening but each time his voice is drowned out by the crowd and no one hears his inquiry.

Frustrated, Blarth turns back to the inn and goes back inside. There he sees two men behind the bar taking bottles and obviously searching for something. There are two short swords on the bar and the two concious serving wenches and the remainder of the early dinner crowd are gathered by the firepit near the prone form of the innkeeper.

"What are you doing?" Blarth demands of the two men behind the bar. They both imediately grab their swords and turn on Blarth. "Just shutup and join the rest in the corner and there won't be any trouble," The larger of the two says.

"Trouble? You're the ones likely to get into trouble if you don't stop what you are doing and leave now."

Hopping over the bar the larger man barks over his shoulder, "Tully, find the coin box and get out the back door. I'll take care of this meddler and follow you." Turning his attention back to Blarth he continues, "You should have done as I said. Now you will pay with your life."

As the man approaches menacingly Blarth looks around for something to defend himself with and spies an upturned table near the door. Stepping over to it he kicks off one of the legs and bends down to pick it up. As he does so the large man lunges at Blarth with his sword. However, the blade never strikes as it is deflected of an invisible barrier over Blarth's back.

Standing again Blarth holds the table leg like a club and prepares to defend himself. The man, shocked by his miss takes a downward hack at Blarth. This time the blade strikes true and cuts into Blarths left arm just above the elbow. Wrenching away Blarth grits his teeth in pain and swings his makeshift club at the man's head. Swinging wide though he is only able to clip the man's shoulder, doing minimal damage.

Emboldened by Blarth's clumsy swing the man again rushes Blarth and attempts another swing at his arm. This time, however, Blarth side steps the blow and brings his table leg to bear on the back of the man's skull. The man is sent realing into the wall by the door and falls to the ground, quite unconcious.

Tully, seeing his brother go down crys in rage and charges Blarth, hitting him in the side with his sword and creating a deep wound. Shocked by the injury Blarth swings his club half heartedly and misses Tully completely. Tully then attempts to skewer Blarth in the midsection, but Blarth is able to deflect the sword with the table leg and knocks the sword from his hand. Finding himself weaponless Tully turns and runs for the back door. As he goes Blarth reaches for him to restrain him but is unable to catch the retreating form and throws his table leg at Tully in frustration. The leg however only catches the door frame as Tully scoots into the alley and out of sight.

[Gralhruk]

With a quick glance around the alley to make sure they are still alone Shade puts a shoulder against the crate and the two manage to shove it aside. There is a grinding sound as it moves; the crate is attached to a trapdoor that slides aside with the crate leaving a small, square opening going down into the dark. Her eyes gravitate toward Nicos' remaining hand and she notes that he is holding down a hidden catch - doubtless the door wouldn't have opened otherwise. There is no ladder that she can see, though there is an unpleasant odor rising from the tunnel.

Just as she is wondering how the one-armed man is going to manage climbing down, he gives her a quick smile and takes a small hop over the edge. Nicos drops straight through the opening and a split second later she hears the light sound of his landing. Clearly he'd done this before. She makes her own way a little more carefully, hanging from the opening with her arms fully extended for a few seconds until her eyes adjust a little. The floor is only a few feet beneath her and she drops down while Nicos reaches into a crack in the wall of the tunnel. The trapdoor grinds closed above them - they must have raised a counterweight when they had pushed the door open - leaving the two alone in the dark.

Out of habit one hand curls around the hilt of her sword as she strains to hear the other's movements. There is the rustle of cloth and leather, then a clang as of metal lightly struck against stone. The next instant a short length of the passage is illuminated in the glow of a small metal rod Nicos is holding.

"Wonderful devices, these sun rods." the bard says with another smile.

Shade wrinkles her nose. It smelled awful down here, and the light made it plain why: down the center of the narrow passage ran a stream of filth and sewage. Several rats scurry out of the radius of their light source.

"I like the place better in the dark."

Loosening her sword in it's scabbard she lightly hops across the filth so that they are on opposite sides of the channel, leaving Nicos alone the left hand side. The rounded walls would make it difficult for her to use a blade in her right hand. Not that it mattered to her - she fought equally well with either hand but Nicos didn't have that luxury. She raises an eyebrow at the bard and he gestures grandly, indicating that they should move forward.

Dimly, she can hear the din from the streets above indicating that things are not settling down at all. Looting has likely begun and it probably won't be long before the guards finish mobilizing and start cracking heads.

I wonder what we will find at the inn.

Part of her hopes that a certain warrior will have waited for her to return but the more cynical part of her knows that he won't be there. He had his own priorities and they didn't include someone like her. Lost in thought, in the dim light she fails to notice a seemingly loose stone in the uneven floor. There is a sharp click as she steps squarely on it and suddenly a flight of arrows lance across the passage. The bard, slightly ahead of her, dives forward as an arrow grazes his arm.

Shade isn't quite as lucky as the missile fire is aimed at her location; she spins instantly and dives forward, trying to put as much distance between herself and the trigger as possible but two arrows find their mark. One slices her calf -a minor wound- but the other bites deeper into her side. She clenches her teeth and makes no sound as she rolls to her knees, seizing the shaft and snapping it off in one fluid motion. Sweat beads on her forehead as she scans the passage for any sign of attackers but it remains empty. Likely this was simply to trap the unwary and a long string of curses parade through her head; she was not used to being counted among the careless. She takes two deep breaths and clenches her teeth once more as she pushes the arrow the rest of the way through, a low groan escaping her lips as she does so. A moment she hurls the bloody broadhead into the sewage; in another moment she is on her feet looking grim but ready to continue. The entire episode takes place in a matter of seconds.

[Maeko]

The market place was full of people: shopping, talking or just milling about.

Maeko looked around her, quietly curious at the mix of familiarity and foreigness of it all; Elyas, near her, was smiling at some private thought.

All of a sudden the nun realized Nicos was nowhere to be seen, the eddies of people had separated them… or so she believed until she noticed four nondescript men converging on her.

“ Elyias, go back to the inn”. They found me

“But I…” started to object the child

“ No ‘but’, go back. I come soon” I will not put other lives at risk.

Mercifully the boy did not discuss, he turned and, with a last mournful glance, went back the way they had come.

The woman breathed deeply, steeling herself for what was to come.
May the mercy of the Perfect Master shelter us, may all living beings reach enlightenment

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

They had no faces, they had no voices; only clubs and irons and knives. The voice was another’s, he kept asking questions she had already answered and one she could not.

“ How is the bowl activated?”

Darkness…death…?

That voice again: “She doesn’t know, throw this garbage away”.
Hands holding her, carring her, a whiff of cold air, for a moment she was flying, then the fall. She tried to roll with the impact but she was too weak; she laid there, among rotten things in the foul smelling water.

Voices, had they come back? She tried to move, to hide. Too late…
A groan, a sound of lame steps, then a foot connected with her chest and someone fell down on her, cursing. A familiar voice.
A name came to her mind, she tried to call out but it came as a whisper : “ Shade?”

[itches]

As he leads the way down passage, Nicos holds the sunrod high above him, to spread as much light as it can. They travel in silence, for the putrid atmosphere didn't lend itself to talking, indeed Nicos tried his best to breath as little as humanly possible, but still failed to escape from the terrible smell.

As he hears a click from behind him, a terrible realisation hits the singer. He didn't know if the passage was trapped or not. Throwing himself forward and down - keeping his mind firmly away from thoughts of what sort of foul things he might land on - A Red-hot pain lances through his arm, as something sharp pieces it. With a gasp, Nicos involuntarily lets go of the sunrod, and as it passes under the murky surface, the tunnel drops into darkness.

Making his way carefully to his feet, and cursing himself for his carelessness in dropping the sunrod, he shuffles over until his outstretched hand brushes the wall. Taking several deep breaths, he stares blindly forward.

"Are you injured?"

[Gralhruk]

Darkness descends like a death shroud and after a moment Nicos breaks the silence. Sudden fury rises in the dark and the only response is a most un-ladylike stream of curses. It is followed by the unmistakable sound of a blade being drawn.

"Yes, but I will live. This incident may have alerted someone to our presence here. The dark will be our friend for now."

In the blackness Nicos hears two quick steps and then the sound of someone landing lightly in front of him. Her hand reaches back, pressing the hem of her cloak into his own. She switches her blade to her right hand as she speaks.

"Hang onto this so we don't get separated. Move as quietly as you can. I will go slowly since there may be other traps."

Searching the wall and floor as best she can without seeing, Shade guides them along. Thankfully, her companion doesn't seem to mind and on top of that he does a fair job at keeping quiet. They haven't gone very far when Shade's right foot catches on something yielding and she stumbles, not quite supressing a curse at her carelessness.

Too busy checking the wall that I neglected the stream side. Not too surprising people are tossing corpses in here; not dead too long, though.

She nearly jumps out of her skin when the body whispers her name. After the initial shock she recognizes the accent.

"Maeko?"

She reaches down and drags the nun out of the filth, towards the wall. In the dark she can tell little other than that the monk is wounded and alive. She can't decide whether or not to risk light. Whoever had done this to Maeko might still be around and they had been tough enough to best the self-sufficient monk, which meant they were better off avoiding them.

"We've got to get her out of here. How close is the exit?"

[itches]

Recognition of what Shade had stumbled over slowly sets in, and Nicos blurts out the answer to her question.

"Unless I have lost track it is up ahead about 10ft, a breach in the left wall, up some stairs then through a hidden door."

Helping Shade move the nun, as best as he could with one hand, the bard leads them for a short while, and then stops. Whispering for Shade to stay there for a moment.

A minute or so later, a crack of light appears, as a door opens up, once again throwing the passage into light again.

[Maeko]

Maeko stifles a moan as the others help her to get up, if not for their combined support she would collapse.

Pain is illusion, fear is illusion she thinks, forcing herself to move, to ignore the grating of broken bones in her left hand.

[Black Plauge]

]thunk

As the table leg falls to the floor Blarth clutches his side in pain. Moving over to one of the upturned tables, he rights one of the chairs and sits down. As he does so one of the barmaids comes over.

"You're hurt," she states.

"It's not that bad," Blarth replies, "It will heal in less than a week left to its own devices."

"Let me bind the wound."

"No, really, I'm all right. I'm feeling better already," Blarth insists standing and letting his hand drop to his side in an effort to prove it. However, that only makes the bloodstain on his shirt all the more apparent.

"You'll bleed to death if you don't take care of that."

Closing his eyes Blarth seems to be gathering the strength for one last objection. When he opens his eyes however his frame deflates and he sits back down in submission.

The barmaid tentatively reaches out her hand to open Blarth's shirt. Seeing him sit there quietly she grows bolder and makes a rapid job of exposing the wound. What she finds, however, suprises her. Where she expected to find a gaping wound bleeding heavily she finds only a small stab wound which bleeds lightly.

"I told you it was nothing," Blarth comments on her suprise.

"This isn't nothing. You may have gotten lucky but that man could have easily killed you if this had been a little higher."

The barmaid takes of her apron and ripping off several strips she makes a crude compress and binding. "You should be more careful in the future," she says as she turns to head back to the firepit where the innkeeper still lies unconcious.

As he watches the barmaid's retreating form Blarth thinks to himself, She sure is a nice lady. Why can't everyone be as nice as her? Life would sure be easier if they were. I wonder what I can do for her to thank her?

[Cadrius]

Cadrius is enveloped in shadow, the only light in the hall, a small lantern carried by the highpriest, is blocked by the man's form. This doesn't trouble him, he's used to walking in the dark. Forms slide past his vision, he squints a few times but after a while he gives up. They could be tables, altars, even people for all he knew. He might not mind walking in the darkness but it certainly didn't help his vision any.

They move in silence, the only words spoken are by Kulper when he warns Cadrius of stairs or other dangerous obstructions. At least he isn't vengeful like their near-cousins, the followers of St. Cuthbert.

Cadrius has a vague sense of moving downward as they pass through various foyers and meeting halls. His suspicion proves to be true as they descend yet another staircase and into what could only be their prison, their dungeon.

A young acolyte snaps to attention as the Highpriest strides into the room. There is more light in here, a few torches run along the walls and a lantern rests upon a nearby desk. Keys rattle and jingle as the acolyte hurries down the hall to open up a cell.

"I trust we will not have any trouble from you?"

Cadrius looks at the man and shakes his head with a resigned sigh. He chose this path and now he must walk it. He begins moving down the hall toward the open cell. There is a scrape as Kulper turns on his heel and pads his way back up the stairs.

The acolyte watches him nervously, as if Cadrius might lash out and kill him. Another sigh escapes his lips as he strides into his cell. It's a cold, gray room, a small pallet rests on the floor and a chamberpot is in the corner.

He turns back to speak to the acolyte when the ground rolls underneath his feet. He pitches forward and runs into the steel bars of his cell. His head hits one of the bars with a dull thump and pain explodes in his vision. There is a dull rumble in the background but he isn't sure if it's real or merely an affect of ramming his head against the metal bars.

Looking around for the acolyte he spots the man on the floor, he has been thrown from his feet. The young man whips his head back and forth, trying to figure out what had happened. Cadrius can see panic in the young man's eyes.

"Do not just sit there, boy! Go find out what has happened!" He gestures emphatically toward the door at the end of the hallway, one arm sticking out between the bars.

The acolyte looks at him and then down the hall and then back again at Cadrius. He seems uncertain of what to do.

Cadrius rattles the door to his cell slightly, demonstrating that it's firmly locked.

"I am not going anywhere. Go and see and if there's trouble, let me know."

The acolyte disappears, a flurry of white robes. Cadrius goes over to his pallet, lays down, and wonders how much longer he has to live.

[Gralhruk]

Nicos and Shade half-carry Maeko up the stairs and out into an alley, emerging into the din of a near riot as people scramble every which way. No doubt the looting has already begun and Shade has a moment to reflect.

Like a bunch of ants whose nest has been disturbed.

Shaking her head as if to clear it, she looks to Nicos and he indicates that the inn is left. Luckily, it's only a few doors down and they push through the heavy wooden door into it's familiar interior. Except that the place looks far from familiar; the entire room is in shambles with tables and stools scattered about, some broken. Food and drink are splattered haphazardly across floor and wall while the paritally open rear door to the inn creaks slightly in the breeze.

Mixed with the debris are some rather large blood-stains and three unconscious forms - two men and a woman. One she recognizes as the innkeep, the woman is obviously one of the serving maids. The other man is rough looking but completely unfamiliar to her. Seated nearby is a winded looking half-orc, bright red blood staining his bandages. Her first thought is that the orc has been looting the place, but his posture and bearing indicate otherwise. After a moment's thought, she places him as the cloaked figure with Paladin from this morning.

Defending the place?

"I'll stay with her. Nicos, see if you can get some water from the kitchen. We need to find out how badly she's wounded."

She lays Maeko gently on the floor and kneels beside her. She checks the monk over with her hands but, having no skill at healing, can't really determine much one way or the other. As she waits for Nicos to return, one hand reaches out and she drags a chair closer, unhooks her sword and lays it on the chair, blade half-drawn and within easy reach.

That ought to give any looters something to think about.

[Black Plauge]

Hearing the door open behind him Blarth is at first concerned that more looters have come to try their luck. A quick glance over his shoulder reveals, however, two people carrying an injured third. Sensing no hostility Blarth is content to study the new arivals. They appear to be familar with the inn and there is a small tug of recognition in Blarth's mind as to their identities.

"I'll stay with her. Nicos, see if you can get some water from the kitchen. We need to find out how badly she's wounded."

Nicos? The one armed entertainer from the other night? Blarth glances again at the man as he enters the kitchen. Oh, yeah, he does have one arm. I wonder how I missed that when they entered. Blarth then turns his attention back to the two figures on the floor near the door. That bald man is certianly injured. Hey, wait a minute... Standing, Blarth moves closer to the two figures to get a better look at the injured figure. He's a woman, er... She's a woman. A bald woman? I wonder what happened to her? Catching a glimpse of the other woman's face as she lays her sword out on the chair recognition dawns on Blarth. She's the woman Sir Paladin was talking to earlier. I wonder if I should tell her Sir Paladin is now missing? I wonder if she would even care? She did storm out on him. I wonder if she is still angry?

Seeing the extensive wounds on the bald woman Blarth makes his way behind the bar where he finds a bottle of strong liquor and a rag. Making his way back to the two figures he offers them to the potentially angry woman as she kneels over her companion's form.

[itches]

Making his way into the Kitchen, Nicos is faces with a jumbled mess where an ordered kitchen usually resides. Spying a discarded skin lying on the floor, Nicos makes his way over to it. Twisting open the mouth, he is assaulted by the smell out sour wine. Dropping the pungent drink to the ground, where it splashes out and onto his boots, the bard moves on to check a second skin.

Sniffing the substance inside, and not smelling anything, Nicos tips it back and takes a sip - and is rewarded with he taste of good clean water.

Taking his prize back out the common room, where two figures now hover over the wounded num. In the light of day, she looks like she has had the life beaten out of her. Forcing himself between the two kneeling figures, and shoving the waterbag at shade, mumbling an explanation

"This is a trick I was taught by my mentor"

Holding his hands above the battered body, and swaying them back and forth, Nicos begins to sing is a lilting voice. The tune is simple, and an enjoyable one, but the words slip away. Seen from out of the corner of your eye, the wounds on Maeko’s body seem to gleam silver for a moment.

Rocking back on his knees, the bard looks drained.

[Gralhruk]

Shade looks up at the large half-orc as he offers her a cloth and a bottle and raises an eyebrow before accepting them. She takes a swig from the bottle and then presses the cloth against the arrow wound at her side, grimacing slightly as she does so. Her hand is warm and wet with the feel of her own blood. Holding the wadded cloth in place, she tightens her weapons belt over it until there is sufficient pressure to stop the blood flow.

"Thanks. I needed that."

Nicos returns and as she begins cleaning Maeko's wounds the bard begins his song. This is hardly the time. Before she can protest she realizes the magical nature of his words; the monk's wounds glow briefly and when the glow fades Maeko is looking a bit better.

"Nice trick."

The nun stirs and Shade presses a hand to her shoulder.

"Rest for a moment before you try and rise. Nicos has helped your healing along but you took quite a beating. Are you feeling well enough to talk?"

[Black Plauge]

The bard's singing suprises Blarth as it begins, but it has such a soothing tone to it he can't bring himself to object. Seeing the wounds on the bald woman's body glow though Blarth finds his voice and speaks up, "You should have purified the wounds before doing that," he says, "My brother Trak is a healer and he always purifies wounds with alcahol before healing or binding." His tone is not confrontational as he speaks but has the same quality of a child repeating the teachings of his infaliable master.

Having said his peice Blarth lets the bard and women be and begins moving about the common room righting tables and chairs. He also closes the back door and picks up the table leg he had thrown earlier. Examining it he is unsure if any one will be able to fix it and so simply places it, and the table it belongs to, up against the wall. As he is tidying up the two barmaids manage to wake the inkeeper and the other barmaid and, after fetching water for them from the kitchen, begin to clean up the mess created by the spilt food and ale.

When all the tables and chairs are back in their proper position Blarth heads towards the door to check and see if things have died down out in the street. Finding the comotion only moderately abated Blarth closes the door just as the prone figure beside it begins to groan. Unsure of what to do about him, Blarth looks to the others in the room for instructions.

[Maeko]

Maeko feels an harmony enveloping her, cradling her. The splinters of bone in her hand shift, oddly without pain, as they mend.
The melody withdraws gently, The nun moves, almost trying to follow it.

"Rest for a moment before you try and rise. Nicos has helped your healing along but you took quite a beating. Are you feeling well enough to talk?"

The voice she heard before, she tries to call the woman who saved her, but her throath is parched and the name comes out as a croack.

A different hand approaches a cup to her lips, Nicos?
Maeko swallows some clean, sweet water, " Thank you" she manages to whisper, closing her eyes in exaustion.

[itches]

Taking the water skin away from the nun's mouth, Nicos says

"Not too much at once, or you will make yourself sick."

Holding the water skin down to allow her another swallow, Nicos glances over at Shade.

"How are you doing over there?"

[Gralhruk]

Mentally cursing herself for being insensitive to the monk's condition, Shade shifts aside giving Nicos enough room to approach with the water. The bard does so with care and concern for his charge; doubtless he had done this before. Shade's hand presses against the throbbing wound at her side, easing the pain somewhat, as she waits for Maeko to recover.

What is wrong with me, that my thoughts go immediately to vengeance when compassion is clearly needed?

At the bard's question she pulls her hand away from her side, clenching the fist without looking at it to hide the blood on her palm. It hurt but it would heal, although a few minutes alone to tend it would be necessary at some point. She answers too quickly.

"Fine, it's just a scratch."

[itches]

"Sure"

Unconvinced, but unwilling to force the issue, Nicos returns his attention to Maeko.

"I do perform that spell, one more time, but I prefer not to just yet. Here take the water skin, keep her sipping at the water, not too much too quickly, and give her a chance to recover a bit before she tries to talk. She was beaten almost to death"

With that, Nicos hands shade the water skin, and gets up, making his way over to the half-orc.

"How are you?"

[Cadrius]

Cadrius laughs a grim, mirthless laugh. For once he's the calm point, the eye of the storm, while chaos sweeps throughout the rest of the border town. He can hear the shuffling of priests moving back and forth upstairs, but these noises are almost drowned out by the mailed boots of the templars, the guardians, searching for any evil within the temple grounds.

While they might seem to have common ground, the Templars and Paladins of Herioneous were far from the brotherhood the priests wants. Though they are both holy warriors their philosophies different vastly. The Paladins primary goal is to stamp out evil in the world while helping to promote their deity's ideology. The Templars on the other hand are militaristic defenders of the temples. Instead of focusing outward they maintain a vigil inward. Neither are expected to show evil any mercy but Cadrius has always felt that the Templars are a little too eager to have a trespasser in, or an assault on, the temple. He fervently hopes they don't check the dungeon, it would be foul luck indeed if one of them knew him.

He stares at the ceiling, or at least what he thinks to be the ceiling, and sighs.

"Is this how I meet my end? Strung up like a horse thief for defending myself and my comrade's honor? Hung from the gallows and then left for the carrion birds to pick at?"

The ceiling does not reply. For a long time Cadrius merely lies on his back, contemplating his future, what little future is left anyway.

"No," he whispers, answering his question at last. He rolls over on his side and quickly falls asleep. It's an old trick learned on the fields of battle, a soldier gets what sleep he can, when he can. And by any judge he'll need every bit of rest that he can get for the next several days will be exhausting.

[Black Plauge]

"I'm fine," Blarth replies to the bard's question, "but what do we do about him? He tried to rob the bar. He needs to be arrested by I see no sign of the guards getting control of the situation outside yet."

As his glance passes back and forth between the bard infront of him and the man on the floor beside him Blarth absent mindedly adjusts the compress the barmaid had placed on his wound earlier which had moved as he righted the tables.

[itches]

"Sure"

Once again unconvinced, but still unwilling to press the point, Nicos walks over to the unconscious man and prods him with his foot.

"See if you can find any rope, and tie him up. That way we can deal with him in our own time."

About to return to Maeko and Shade, the bard stops and turns a probing look upon the half-orc.

"Say, what's your name friend?"

[Gralhruk]

Shade looks up as the bard repeats his earlier affirmation, this time with the sarcasm a little more evident. He studiously avoids her gaze and she turns back to Maeko, waiting for the monk to recover her strength enough to talk. As Nicos mentions tying up the intruder Shade speaks, softly but loud enough for the others to hear.

"Or just toss him out in the street. He'll get a taste of his own medicine that way - it won't take long for someone to loot an unconscious body."

[Black Plauge]

The sarcasm in the bard's voice causes Blarth to frown as the bard walks away. Ignoring the comment from the woman on the ground Blarth stares at the back of the bard with a glare that could bore holes in solid granite. When the bard turns to ask his name he closes his eyes, purses his lips and low bass-pitched hum, as if from several unseen voices, swells 3 times from almost a whisper to as loud as a shout.

The sudden appearence and disappearence of the noice causes the barmaids to jump in fright and they hurridly look about the room for the source of the noise. The patrons, too, look about as if unsure of whether to beleive their ears.

As everyone frantically looks for the source of the strange noice Blarth calmly opens his eyes, seemingly unpreturbed by the disturbance, and rips off the compress on his side. Where, once had been a decent sized wound there is now only a slight irritation of the skin, something hardly even worth calling an injury.

Casting his glance on the bard again, Blarth says, "I told you I was fine. I know how to take care of myself, thank you very much." His voice has the intonation one would normally associate with a child but Blarth's face clearly says he is serious.

In a more natural tone he adds, almost as if an after thought, "My name is Blarth, by the way, and you would be?"

[itches]

"... Well that was cool."

Impressed by Blarth's display of power, Nicos takes the few steps necessary to walk over to him and extends his hand.

"My name is Nicos, we sort of met earlier this morning, with Maeko and 'Paladin'."

Once the formal introductions were over, Nicos one again goes to move back towards Maeko and Shade.

"Now if you excuse me, I would like to check of the good Nun is doing."

[Gralhruk]

"Keep an eye on her for a moment. I want to be ready in case there is more trouble."

With that the woman in blue heads up the stairs to the rooms, the bottle still in one hand. Out of sight of the others, she walk past her own room and stops at the now vacant chamber where Cadrius had been staying. It is clear that he is gone and she clenches her teeth even though this is what she expected.

She pads off to her own room, stripping off her cloak, weapons, and bloodied shirt. She quickly cleans her wound, using some of Blarth's whiskey, and binds it with a strip from her ruined shirt. She quickly dons the shirt she purchased today with Nicos before pulling on her armor and strapping on her twin swords and adjusting her daggers. The rest of her belongings she carefully stows in her pack. This she leaves on the bed and is about to head downstairs when she notices a small satchel on the desk by the door.

She tilts her head and eyes it quizzically, wondering where it came from. Approaching somewhat cautiously, she nudges it and hears the clink of coin. Perplexed, she loosens the neck and peers inside. It only takes a moment to recognize the loot that Paladin had dumped on the table downstairs only just this morning. Cadrius must have left it here before he went to play the fool. She is touched that his last thoughts here were of her and at the same time she is hurt that she is so closely associated with coin in his mind. She gazes into the mirror behind the desk for long moments before leaving the room and closing the door behind her.

[Black Plauge]

As Blarth shakes the bard's hand, Nocos' comment finnaly rings the bell that had been running around Blarth's head since he and the two women had walked in. "The bald woman, she is Maeko? That's right, you and her were hear this morning when I first asked Sir Paladin for help." Blarth smiles, obviously pleased with himself for making the connection. A groan from the figure by the door though interupts his moment of pleasure. Looking about Blarth sees only the large poker by the fire. However, upon testing it he finds it to strong to be bent into a restraint and looks about the room for some way of securing the prisoner.

Finally Blarth's eyes find the bandage he just ripped off himself and his face brightens with an idea.

Taking the poker, Blarth threads it through the sleeves of the unconcious man's leather shirt, forcing his arm out into a 'T' shape. He then uses the bandage to tie the man just below the arms to one of the posts in the room so that his toes just barely touch the floor.

Stepping back, Blarth looks over his work and gives a satisfied nod as he mutters in orcish to himself, "The village cheiftan couldn't have done better himself."

[Gralhruk]

Shade descends the stair slowly, a thoughtful look on her face. She is garbed for action, her dark studded leather armor peeking out from beneath the shroud of her cloak, her twin blades outlined beneath the heavy silk. She eyes the trussed prisoner icily, her eyes skimming over Blarth and then Maeko before settling on Nicos.

"How is she doing?"

[Maeko]

“I am…better” answered a thin voice, Nicos almost jumped, the nun hadn’t stirred till then.

“ …and I owe you my life” she added, after a pause to catch her breath.

Nicos shrugged slightly, with a glance to Shade.
Monks and nuns could be as bad as paladins when they chose. He opened his mouth to answer, but the elusive woman beat him to it.

“ Never mind that. What happened to you?”

“ They found me, the thieves. You were right”. Maeko turned to Nicos, trying not to wince at pain the movement brought on “ They think the bowl has magical properties, and want to know how to activate it”

Something in the way she had spoken brought up a thought Shade didn’t like at all. She moved into Maeko’s view and, in a very low, controlled voice said: “ You did it on purpose, didn’t you? You didn’t know how to find them, and so let them find you. One of your kind was sure to attract attention here”.

It wasn’t really a question, but Maeko chose to treat it as such. “ It worked, I know more about them now; and they think I am but a small nuisance, already taken care of”.

[Gralhruk]

Oddly enough, Maeko's admission brings admiration from Shade. Had it been anybody else she would have found the escapade profoundly stupid. In a way, she looked up to the monk and so gave the nun's dangerous gamble the benefit of the doubt; her reasons must be valid. Obviously Maeko trusted Nicos but she didn't know about the half-orc. He seemed harmless enough but Shade was secretive by nature and she wanted to know more about the nun's situation.

"We need to talk. I'd like to know more about what's going on and why you would take such risk."

She looks meaningfully at Blarth.

"Now might not be the best time, though."

[Black Plauge]

At Shade's comment an unnatural silence falls over the occupants of the common room. The patrons who were there when the ground shook hudle by the fireplace looking at each other. The innkeeper, who has now regained his feet, looks up from the chair where he sits tending the injured barmaid, who seems to still be in shock. The other two barmaids look up from the tables they had been cleaning and look at each other and then at Blarth who stands there looking at the trussed up prisoner, apparently unaware of the comment directed at him.

Through the silence the sounds from the street drift into the bar. Whistles now punctuate the dimming noise of the crowd as the town guard attempt to regain control. A quick glance out the window reveals that the crowds are begining to thin and not because the people have left town. Faces populate the windows up and down the street, watching the diminishing chaos.

Finnally a decision appears to be reached between the two barmaids. The one who bound Blarth's injury earlier walks over to Blarth and slapping him lightly on the arm declares, "Well, if you won't defend yourself, I will."

She then rounds on Shade and nearly shouts at her, "You, missy, have no right to be insinuating that this man presents some kind of threat to your friend who let herself be attacked," as she gestures at Blarth.

"He defended this place from that scum," she continues indicating the man tied to the post, "when no one else cared." She then glares at the patrons who look at each other nervously, refusing to meet her gaze.

Turning to Maeko she continues in a harsher tone, "If you ask me you got what you deserve, using yourself as bait. And what happened to Elays? Just this morning you were paying for him to learn a trade, was that just part of your scheme too?!?"

Shifting her gaze to Nicos she fires off another accusation, "And you, you pretend to care about others using your tricks to beguile them and give them a false sense of security but your never around when people need you. You left this morning with your baldheaded friend and returned with her badly injured. I'll bet you were no where near her when she was attacked. You take what you want, use it and leave it without a care in the world." The other barmaid who was cleaning tables shifts her gaze about gultily at the last comment.

The barmaid appears like she is going to continue when the innkeepers voice cuts in, "That's enough Claire. You've said your piece now leave the customers alone." He then leans down and picks up the damp rag he had dropped in shock and resumes dabbing the forehead of the injured barmaid.

[Maeko]

" Elyas? I sent him back from market, I saw him go. He not come back here?"

Maeko's voice is calm, but the sudden thickening of her accent betrays her agitation.

[itches]

"I'm sure he is around here somewhere," Nicos says in a soothing voice, while casting a look at the noise outside, which had dropped by a clear margin now.

If Elyas is out there, he might very well be dead, and we can't even go outside to look for him until it has calmed down.

As the bard looks outside, a squad of horsemen ride past.

"The guard is out now, my guess is they will enforce martial law. Get everyone off the streets."

Throwing a glance in Shade's direction, Nicos frowns.

"I don't suggest any of us leave here until dawn tomorrow. The patrols will calm down at night, but they will still be out there, and if they find anyone, they will just toss in then a cell, and let it be sorted out later."

[Gralhruk]

Shade just listens as the barmaid rants, her face going from open to closed to stony in a matter of seconds. Her eyes are icy razors, cleaving the other woman's fiery wrath. She stares for a long moment after the tirade is over but she refuses to give voice to her thoughts.

Yes, the world is full of victims. Nobody protected me, nobody came to my aid - I had to do it all on my own. I don't owe you anything.

She turns to Maeko and gently kneels next to her.

"You will rest better in your room. As Nicos said, we should not stray from the inn this evening. We will talk more tomorrow."

Motioning to the bard, she indicates Maeko and the two help her up the stairs and settle her in her room. After making the nun promise to rest they tell her food will be brought up to her. As they descend the stairs Shade notices Blarth still standing around with that half-confused look on his ugly face. She sighs to herself; he had defended the inn, and that damned Paladin seemed to have taken a liking to him as well. Whatever else, he certainly didn't have a bad heart. Deliberately ignoring the barmaid she approaches the half-orc.

"Look, I didn't mean anything before. I'm sure you are a fine person but my friend, the woman, is having some difficulties that I don't think you want to be involved in. I don't know exactly what's going on, but I'm sure it's dangerous and it will probably get more so. I'm sure she had sound reasons for what she did - whatever some other people might think."

Her sarcasm isn't lost on the barmaid, though she doesn't look away from Blarth as she speaks. Finished, she let's the half-orc mull that over while she turns back to Nicos.

"I may stay here for a few more days after all but tonight I want to check a couple of things out. Maeko said you were right. Right about what? You knew she was going to do something. Who did she go after and where can I find them?"

[itches]

Returning from up-stairs, Nicos zeros in on one of the barmaids, and attempts to flirt with her - until interrupted by Shade that is.

As Shade releases her barrage of questions, and the promise of violence that hung around her, like smoke around a campfire.

With a smile and a shrug, Nicos answers.

"I have no idea what she was talking about. Why don't you wait until tomorrow, and ask her then?"

There has been enough destruction for this day; I would not have any more if I can help it

[Black Plauge]

Utterly confused by the firestorm of conversation Shade's comment provoked, Blarth can do nothing but stare at first Claire and then Shade as the scene unfolds. It isn't until Shade apologizes that he finally realizes that some how he had been the cause of all this mayham.

Hanging his head in shame Blarth retreats to a coner of the bar where he sits quietly, tracing his finger in a pattern over and over again on the bar.

As Shade and Nicos help Maeko up the stairs to her room the innkeeper goes over to the remaining patrons and begins a conversation with them in low voices. Enough of the conversation drifts through the quiet bar though for any one to realize their discussing accomidations for the night.

Everything appears to have returned to some semblance of normality, when a most unusual event happens. Some one knocks on the door. Startled the innkeeper looks up puzzled and scans the room before going to the door to open it. Outside stand a treble of guardsmen, two with halbreds clearly at the ready. The third, who apparently had knocked on the door, stands more at ease, but seems to exude more confidence than the other two men combined.

"Shamus," the lead guardsman begins, "I am glad to see that your establishment has been spared most of the raveges of today's events. I came by because the Council has decided to make use of curfew privligages until the source of today's incident is taken care of. I have to register all of your guests and no one is to be out after dark."

"That's all well and good, Maren," Shamus replies, "but how am I supposed to make a living in the mean time. I have maybe a dozen guests under my roof right now, most of whom weren't here when the earth shook."

"I know, and I'm sorry," Maren replies, "but I have to do my job." Pausing Maren look's over Shamus' shoulder at the man tied up in the middle of the room, "What's this now? You know orcish clan customs are forbidden. Why is that man tied up like that?" Moving past Shamus, Maren moves over to the man and draws a dagger to cut him down.

"He tried to rob us while all the commotion was going on. Blarth, over there, managed to subdue this one but his partner got away," Claire responds for her boss.

"Well then," Maren responds, "I'll over look the way he was tied up, but I best take him into custody for the night."

Using his dagger Maren cuts down the attempted thief and then slaps him a couple of times until he wakes up. Once he is awake, Maren forces him to his feet and shoves him out the door.

"Miab, you take this scoundrel back to the barracks and lock him up there, the jail is already full and the Temple has two high profile murderers already." Turning back to look over the others in the common room Maren recognizes the men in the corner and calls to the other guardsman outside, "Toek, you escort these men back home. I don't want any one away from their families tonight that doesn't have to be. Too many lost their lives today."

As the men file out a look of longing crosses Shamus' face as he watches 7 more beds empty for the night.

After the men leave with the guard Maren pulls a paper and pen out of his belt pouch and says, "Now then, all of you must register with me for possible questioning in regards to today's incident. No one is to leave town without permission and any attempt to do so is more likely to earn several days in jail rather than on the road."

"Now, who would like to go first?"

[itches]

"A question for a question Maren," Responds Nicos. Do you know how my father fairs in all of this?"

Looking at the bard in confusion for a moment, Comprehension at last dawns on the guardsman.

"Your Nicos, Dem’ts bastard. Gods man, you look like you’ve been crawling through a sewer. No I think its better I don't know, he interrupts as Nicos begins to say something.

"As to your father, I don't know, after I get everyone’s name, I’ll escort you back to the guard post and see if anyone has any word of him there. Now the others .... "

Nicos grins coldly.

"They can introduce themselves, but I have one friend up stairs resting. She took quite a beating in the mess out there, and I would prefer that she isn't disturbed. Her name is Maeko."

Looking on stonily, Maren speaks in an even tone.

"Sorry to hear about your friend, but I’m going to have to see her for myself to make sure she is really there. Let me attend to the others, and then I’ll go up and look in on her. The quicker I get through this, the quicker we get back to the guard post."

[Gralhruk]

The dark woman frowns as the authorities show up and start ordering them around. Chances are they would simply make things worse. As the guard announces they must register with him her frown deepens and she wishes she were anywhere but here. Her eyebrow raises as Nicos indicates that his father is none other than the detective currently investigating the recent murders.

Now that is unexpected. Might as well get this over with . . . and me all decked out for trouble.

She approaches the guard in a relaxed manner, her cloak not quite concealing her armor or weapons. Her manner is friendly and open, hood down, and she smiles at the man - the image of coorperation.

"I'm Shade and I'll be staying here for a few days if you need to contact me."

[Black Plauge]

"Shade, mm...?" replies Maren, "That doesn't sound much like a name, but if that is how the others here know you then it will be easiest to find you with that name."

Looking about the room after making a few notes on his paper, Maren notices Blarth in the corner, "Now, you there, stop mopping over there in the corner and give me your name. The others have already done so, you've no excuse for waiting any longer."

Picking his finger up off the bar, Blarth glances up at the guardsman. Shruggind his shoulders he replies, "My name is Blarth Plak." He then returns to tracing out the same design on the bar with his finger.

"Plak, eh?" Maren mutters as he jots down Blarth's name, "You must be related to that Trak fellow we have holed up in the temple. Father? Uncle? Brother? Well, any way you should know that his legal proceding has been suspended temporarily. It seems some other fool has confesed to the same crime and with all the comotion today the guard doesn't have the spare man power to investigate things properly right now."

Blarth's head snaps up at the mention of the other suspect, "But if this other guy confessed that means you should be letting my brother go now, right?"

"Hold on there," Maren responds, "Like I said we don't have the manpower to properly investigate at the moment. Your brother's innocense has to be proven before we let him go. Procedure must be followed, you know."

"I suppose," replies Blarth sullenly as his head sags back down and he goes back to tracing the pattern with his finger.

"Now, then," Maren says, returning his attention to the others in the room, "I'll just check in on that friend of yours Nicos, and be going. Thank you all for cooperating." With that he turns to Nicos and gestures for him to lead the way upstairs.

[itches]

With a bow that is slightly mocking, Nicos leads Maren upstairs and to Maeko's room, only breaking the silence when they paused out side the door to softly say.

"Try to be as quiet as possible, in case she is sleeping."

With that, Nicos opens the door and steps inside ... onto a loose floorboard that gives a loud Squeal of protest.

[Maeko]

Nicos winced at the sudden noise.
“ I am awake, do not worry”, came the nun’s voice, although not from the spot Nicos expected; Maeko was up, folding her newly mended clothes.
“ You should be resting!” protested the bard.
“ I am better now…and I have been recalled, I have to leave soon”

“ As to that” Maren intervened, rigidly, “ curfew is in force until the origin of the recent disturbance will be fully investigated”.
Recognizing the uniform of the city guard Maeko bowed : “ I will comply, of course.
Guardsman, child is missing from this establishment, his name is Elyas, I saw him last time at the market place, going this way. Could guards look for him?”

“With all the chaos going on it would be a real mess. It wont be necessary.” With a look at Maeko Nicos started to protest, when, realizing the misunderstanding, Maren added : “ Elyas is at the barracks now. He came running like a pack of hell-hounds was at his heels, babbling about a foreign woman in danger, then hell broke lose and we had him staying. Guardsman Adain had almost to restrain him, he wanted to go back at all cost.
I suppose you are the one he spoke about?”

The nun bowed again “ I am, my name is Maeko. I thank you for keeping the boy safe”.

[itches]

Indicating that he would meet the guardsman down stairs, the bard stands and observes the monk for a moment.

"I still think you should be resting, and I'm not exactly sure what is happening, but none the less I wish you well in it. You have been an interesting companion now if you excuse me, I have some matters of my own to attend to of my own."

With that, and a slight bow of the head, Nicos turns and leaves the room. Downstairs, he signals his readiness to Maren, and the pair of then leave, headed to the guard post.

[Cadogan Trahem]

At Nico's arrival at the guard station, he notices two familiar faces although now, somewhat, slightly less clean and more fatigued then he last saw them.

The blind mage Cadogan, and the Insistant Elf Laranor from the evening he met the monk, Maeko. The pair stand silent and shakced along with three others who look like your usual suspects for any crime. Near by a heavy guard stands preparing to make a report and interogate the prisoners.

[Maeko]

Maeko stares at Nicos' retreating back; this sort of stilted formality isn't like him, he felt amost hurt by her news.

when I explain they will understand, thinks the nun, after all he is been a brother, he knows as things are in the Orders

She still wonders at the bard's chosen path, she would have liked to know him better

The world is illusion and impermanency is the law of things she reminds herself, finishing to fold her clothes.

[Gralhruk]

Shade watches Nicos depart with the guards through slitted eyes. The bard was gone, along with any information he might have given her about Maeko's attackers. Not only that, but she was expected to stay in this place; it seemed her plans for switching to a different location were momentarily on hold unless she wanted to slip out of town entirely.

It was an attractive thought but in the end she decides against it; telling herself that she wants answers to some questions before she leaves. Sighing, she moves over to the bar and rights a stool before sitting on it.

How I hate the waiting.

[itches]

Tapping Maren on the shoulder, Nicos points in the direction of Cadogan and Laranor.

"See that group over there. What did they do?"

Glancing in the direction where the bard pointed, Maren shrugs not concerned.

"I think that lot were picked up in a donnybrook a bit earlier tonight. Some of them are known smugglers. If you 'cuse me now, I need to go make a report."

Letting the guardsman go, Nicos makes way the duty desk to see which of the Guard Sergeants are on duty on this night. Once he sees the man, Nicos grins inwardly.

Halfet is on duty to-night, excellent. The man has liked me ever since I performed at his daughters wedding. Thought no doubt he will think less well of me if you knew about the more private "performances" I had done for her.

Calling out a greeting, Nicos moves u and shakes Halfet's hand firmly.

"Nicos m'lad, what are you doing 'ere? Martial Law has been declared, you should be back at that Inn you frequent when in town."

Grinning at the no-nonsense sergeant, Nicos glances over to where Cadogan is and how the guardsman is now attempting to take his statement.

"Nice to see you too Halflet, its been so long. How is your wife?"

Nicos' grin widens slightly as he continues to slightly mock the mans lack of etiquette.

"Good weather hasn't it been? How is your daughter? I heard that she has a baby now"

"Okay, okay, I ge' ya point. '' 'Twas never one for small talk when there was work ta be dun. An' in-case ya hadn’t notic'd we're in the middle of a slight crisis."

"Point well taken," Nicos, replies, his grin fading. " Actually I came here to see if Dem't was okay."

At last giving a small smile, Halflet gives a small nod.

"As fa' as I know he is fine. Left' the city tha' morn'. Won’t be back 'till 'morrow. Anything else I can do for ya?"

"Actually there is. Over there with the smugglers is someone I know."

Looking to as the Bard yet again points to the group, Halflet grunts.

"Aye, I was there when we nabbed that group. The elf and the blind man were fighting the smugglers. Smugglers may be no-good criminals, but we can't have people going about and getting hurt trying to take the law into their own hands. Don’t know what these two thought they could do, they were peaty beaten up when we got there."

Looking steadily at the silent, and once again grinning Nicos, Halflet grunts a second time.

"S'pose you'ld like me to just let them go? Which one of them was your friend?"

"The blind-man." Nicos utters matter-of-factly.

Grunting for a third time as he thinks the situation over, Halflet's gaze switches from the chained group, to the ever-grinning bard.

"S'pose he might have been defending himself, and not like he did any real harm. Lets go check his statement and I’ll decide then."

[Cadogan Trahem]

"...and then we ambushed the rallying Orc's, however before we could secure the chamber, there was a mighty explosion and we where forced to flee out of the inferno." Cadogan tells the guard. "When we resurfaced in the sewers we where greeted by out contractors, however they turned on us. Apparently they wanted the chambers intact - for what I do not know - but we managed to defend ourselves untill the guards arrived before we went off peacefully." Cadogan concludes his epic tale to the guard, the man almost awestruck at how a blind man could recount such a compelling story going only on sounds he heard, smells he encounterd, and what he felt with his hands.

Nico's approches and Cadogan goes quiet not knowing who it was approching him and the guard.

[itches]

Halflet and Nicos arrive just in time to catch the tale end Cadogan's story. Waiting as Halflet motions to guard to step aside with him, to question him about the statements given, Nicos looks carefully t the dirt, soot and general grime covering the mage.

After a few long moments, the bard speaks, knowing that Cadogan is unable to see him.

"Well it seems like you've had quite the adventure since I last saw you"

[Black Plauge]

The common room of the inn is quiet after Nicos leaves with Maren.

Shamus is finally content that the barmaid who hit her head is out of the woods and sends her upstairs to get some rest.

Claire and Sarah finish cleaning the up the spills caused by the earthquake and then head to the kitchen to wash dishes from the sound of things.

Shamus busys himself behind the bar, reorgianizing the liquers the theives had messed around polishing the glasses.

The only patrons are Blarth and Shade, who sit at oppisite ends of the bar, alone in their respective thoughts and not ordering anything.

The current quietness of the Dragon's Hangover marks a stark contrast to its usual state. By now ususally there would be at least a dozen local folk and another half dozen or more travelers in the common room eating and drinking and generally making a fair bit of noise. Shamus would also have no worries about filling his beds as his brother would be on duty tonight at the gate, directing weary travelers to his inn as they came in. But the gates were probably closed and the guards tonight would be turning every one away. It was little likely that the inn's normally cheerful atmosphere would return as long as the curfew was in effect.

As the sky grows dark, nothing much has changed. Shamus seems content with the arrangement of his liquors and busys himself counting and recounting the coins in his cashbox. From the sounds of it Claire and Sarah have long sinced finished the dishes, yet they remain out of sight in the kitchen.

Blarth and Shade remain at thier "posts," neither much acknowledging the precense of anyone else.

Maeko remains upstairs resting, or at least everyone in the common room assumes she is resting.

The abnormal calm is only broken by the occasional sound of the guards passing by as they patrol the streets.

A little bit later Claire exits the kitchen with three bowls of stew. Handing one to Shamus she takes the other two over to Blarth. Placing one in front of him she sits down next to him and begins eating, watching him from the corner of her eye.

After Claire puts the bowl of stew down, Blarth stops tracing his finger along the bar and stares at it for few moments. He then glances back and forth between the bowl and Claire, as if unsure of what to do with it.

"You better eat it before it gets cold," Claire comments.

Without saying anything Blarth picks up the bowl and begins to eat, unsure of how to respond.

[Black Plauge]

As he finishes his bowl Blarth notices that Claire has been staring at him for most of the time, barely touching her own stew since he started eating.

"Aren't you hungry?" he asks.

"Huh?" Glancing, quickly at her own bowl Claire does her best to recover, "Oh, I'm just.. a.. slow eater. Would you like some more? We have plenty more in the kitchen. Enough to feed the roomful of people that we don't have."

Glancing around the common room Blarth replies, "Yeah, I guess so. Well, some more stew... ah, sounds nice."

Picking up his bowl, Claire heads back to the kitchen to refill it. Along the way Shamus offers her his empty bowl and a knowing look, which she returns coldly before taking his bowl back to the kitchen as well.

Blarth, meanwhile sits on his stool thinking deep thoughts. She sure is a nice lady. Nobody's ever gotten me food before without me asking. Well..., except my momma, but she doesn't count. Thats what mommas are supposed to do. I wonder if she's a momma? No, she's to pretty and young to be a momma. Mommas are old and plain, like my momma. It sure is quiet in here. Not at all like last night when I could barely get through the crowd up to mine and Trak's room. I wonder how Trak is doing. All alone in that cell at the temple. I'll bet the earth shaking in there was really frightening. No way to escape if the roof fell in or anything. I hope the guards can prove his innocense. Dad shouldn't have to lose both Momma and Trak before he moves on. Oh, here comes that nice lady now with more stew.

Coming back from the kitchen Claire brings another full bowl of stew for Blarth and sets it in front of him. "There you go," she says as she sits down beside him and begins working on her own bowl again.

"Uh... Thanks..., it sure is nice of you to do this for me" Blarth replies.

Claire focuses intently on the stew she is eating and doesn't reply.

[Cadogan Trahem]

"Well it seems like you've had quite the adventure since I last saw you"

Cadogan reels back as he tries to place the voice, it had to be the man from the bar only the night before.

"Eh? Oh, quite." Cadogan answers simply. "I recognise the voice, but your name is shortcoming to me...." Cadogan presses Nicos for his name.

[Gralhruk]

The arrow wound at her side aches, a comforting distraction to the track her thoughts would like to take. The inn is nearly empty, the serving crew outnumbering the guests. The half-orc sits at the other end of the bar and eats his dinner with a serving girl who seems happier about the company than he does.

Was he her hero, now that he'd beaten up one stupid man? Was he uncomfortable with her adoration, and if so, why? Perhaps he felt he his act was foolish instead of brave. Maybe he'd meant to save himself and not the girl. Both possible, but she didn't think it was either of those. More likely, this Blarth didn't think himself worthy of another's company. His good deed, ultimately, meant nothing; for whatever reason he saw himself as unworthy and no amount of good deeds or female adoration would change that opinion.

The very nature of perception was puzzling in and of itself, for perception was always colored by selfishness. The girl found his deed good because it was beneficial to her. The looter no doubt had a different view. And yet that didn't mean this looter was automatically and evil person. Perhaps he'd had a valid reason for his actions, something that belied his illegal act, something that indicated his worth despite his appearance. No doubt his serving wench was one of the mob calling for the death of Blarth's brother only recently; she might just change her tune now. Appearances, once again.

Shade sits alone, neither eating nor drinking and nobody approaches her, not even a servant. Surely they noticed her but even more surely they could sense her mood, or rather they thought they could. She had told Nicos that it was all about being unobstrusive, but she knew how to be visible as well. She knew how to project her attitude with her posture and her gaze, all without saying a word. Like hiding, this kept her safe, kept her self-sufficient, kept her strong.

[itches]

"Nicos, though I'm amazed you would remember my voice so easily. I barely said a half-dozen words to you."

While Nicos and Cadogan talk, Halflet finishes conferring with the guardsman and returns, clapping a large hand on the bard's shoulder.

"Well it appears they there wasn’t much in the way of law breaking. Tell you what; I'll release them on your word that they will stay in town for the next couple of days. We have a patrol heading over in the area of the Inn in a few minutes, I'll arrange it so they can escort you agree."

At a nod from Nicos, the guard loosens the bonds, and steps away, not interested in more then his job insists.

While waiting for the patrol to leave, Nicos spends the time, telling a slightly coloured version of what happened to him, and heading a quick rendition of the Blind-mage's tale.

After a short trip through the streets in the company of a group of guardsmen, Nicos enters to Inn door with a flourish.

"You people will never guess what I found," he says with a grin, motioning towards the door behind him.

[SponkleofInfini]

Laronar raises his head to see Nicos, rather taken with Cadogan and barely even recognising the elf; sitting bewildered.

Why is he ignoring me......................no matter, why should now be any different.

While comtemplating, he hears the guard mention the release of both Cadogan and Laronar, with Nicos leading the way;

Why bother making a big deal..................he got me out of imprisonment at least for now after all.

Back at the Inn Laronar lowers his head, as Nicos announces their return. Barely expecting anything, he makes way for Cadogan and retreats to a seat.

[Gralhruk]

A short time ago, even before the explosion that rocked the city, other adventurers were beginning their journey into the unknown.

Ilastros eyed the blond haired, blue eyed elf beside him. She was pretty, as were all of her kind, but he sensed something much stronger about her than her visage would indicate. Musing silently about what it meant that she had rescued him and now travelled with him, he almost fails to notice the appearance of the other woman in his life.

Yet there she was: Ilyasi, standing unperturbed at the mouth of an alley at the next block. He grabs Shiva's arm suddenly and points toward the apparition.

"There: what do you see?"

The elf stares with the eagle eyes of her kind at the deserted street before locking her half-amused gaze on Ilastros, whom she knows as Yendi.

"An empty street?"

"I knew it. Look, this is going to seem strange but follow me."

"Haven't I already been doing that?"

"Yes, but now I'm not sure where I'm leading us."

Ilastros didn't know who Ilyasi really was, or what she wanted with him. For some reason, though, he felt compelled to follow the spirit. So, he picks up his pace and, with Shiva in tow, heads down the alley. Ilyasi is gone, but a heavy sewer grate has been removed and a yawning black hole leads down into the earth.

Without so much as a glance at Shiva, Ilastros lowers himself down. Shiva stares quizzically at his receding form, wondering what was wrong with the man. His voice floats up from the darkness.

"Are you coming or not?"

With a shrug, the elf follows. At the bottom, Ilastros lights a torch and looks around. The tunnel only goes in one direction, sloping gradually down as it moves west. After what seems like hours of travelling, but is in reality probably only 20 minutes or so, Shiva can't contain herself anymore.

"Where are we going?"

"I told you, I'm not sure. I know it seems odd, but there is a ghost that's been following me. Well, not really following me now, I've decided to follow it. And it came down here."

"Uh, okay."

Shiva is beginning to wonder if that blow to the man's head had addled his wits. Her doubts growing with every step, she continues to follow the man further into the sewer. They arrive at the first major branch in the passage: they can either continue west or go south. Shiva is seriously considering leaving this man to his fate when down the south passage she catches a glimpse of a translucent woman, robed in trailing white rags and floating above the ground.

"There, what is it?"

"Ah, you see her too now. That is Ilyasi, the ghost I mentioned. We should go after her."

The ghost disappears ahead of them and they catch no further sight of her. As they move, they hear sounds up ahead - cursing in a guttural language and the unmistakable clash of weapons.

"There's fighting: let's go!"

The two run, side by side down the passage into the unknown. Up ahead, there is a reddish light in the tunnel. The two are certain this is what they were meant to find.

Suddenly, a loud explosion rocks the passageway, deafening the two intruders. Fire blasts down the tunnel searing the very skin from their bones. Even as their life ebbs from their bodies, the tunnel collapses, crushing their remains and entombing them in tons of rubble. Before the life goes out of him forever, Ilastros thinks he hears the laughter of a ghost. The laughter dies a moment later as Ilyasi realizes that her time on the prime material plane is over. Her essence, inextricably tied to Ilastros, cannot survive without him and she ceases to exist, as if a powerful priest had exorcised her. Shiva has one last thought before her untimely death.

What was I thinking?

[Black Plauge]

Glancing up as the bard makes his entrance, Blarth sees an unfamiliar elf and blind man following his inside. Who are they and why does Nicos think they are so important? I certianly don't recognize them. I wonder where he found them? There's a curfew in place after all. People aren't supposed to be moving around. That's going to make it tough to prove Trak's innocence.

As Blarth continues to think his random thoughts, Claire abruptly gets up from beside him, takes their bowls and heads for the kitchen. Blarth doesn't even seem to notice.

Shamus looks up at Nicos' entrance and his face visible lights up when he sees two more of his wayward guests return. Perhaps this night wasn't going to be as bad as it looked. With six guests I'll at least break even for the night. Now if I can just figure out how to keep the stew until this curfew is lifted so that it doesn't all go to waste. Coming out from behind the bar Shamus greets the two newcomers, "Welcome back you two. Its been a long day for everyone, though I imagine that your's was longer than most." Looking the pair over, Shamus continues, "Would you like me to have baths drawn for the two of you. Your covered in soot from head to toe. Did you get caught in some sort of fire? And how about that earth shaking? Where were you when that happened?" Shamus continues to prattle on, making meaningless conversation as he sets about the buisness of running his inn.

[itches]

Skilfully skirting his way past Shamus, Nicos plonks himself down on the bar next to Shade.

After several moments of silence, it becomes obvious that Shade isn't going to say anything, even about Cadogan's sudden return and his weathered appearance.

Thinking quickly, Nicos comes up with a topic of conversation most likely to get to mysterious woman to open up.

"This may seem like a strange question, but I don't suppose you know where the rest of your group is? Even with the mage turning up, you still have a couple of them missing."

With Shade still pointedly ignoring the bard, Nicos attempts again.

"Well, I don't suppose one of them happens to be called Cadirus. Apparently someone by that name confessed to those murders before. You wouldn't happen to be keeping that type of company would you?"

Nicos leans in towards Shade, smiling slightly, at his own joke.

[SponkleofInfini]

Laronar is thrown offguard by Shamus' sudden barrage of questioning. Deciding it best not to go into details;

"Thankyou, I would like a bath drawn, but our little adventure is probably left unsaid until we're clean and weariness has left us."

As Shamus rushes off to fetch hot water for the fatigued adventurers, Laronar finds a seat by the bar.

[Gralhruk]

Grey eyes observe newcomers and old comrades with the same stony gaze. She runs one hand through her short, dark hair as Nicos takes a seat next to her. She wasn't unhappy to see the bard - he had an odd way of putting her at ease - but she wasn't happy to see him either. She ignores his expectant look, uncertain what it means and unwilling to volunteer her ignorance.

Her expression goes from annoyed to aggravated to concerned in the span of a heartbeat, then returns to the unreadable flinty gaze she had worn a moment ago. That Cadrius had turned himself in was no surprise. He had practically said as much the last time they had spoken yet it hurt profoundly, dwarfing the throbbing sting of her side wound. She leaves him for last.

"My group? Of those that travelled to this town with me, Cadogan and Maeko are already here, though somewhat worse for wear than when we arrived. The fourth member of our company died before we arrived here. Paladin decided he was too good to be hanging around with the likes of us and departed this morning."

Nicos contines to stare at her, unspeaking, and she shifts uncomfortably. It is obvious that she has not mentioned Cadrius, which was clearly the news he wanted to get a reaction to. After another long moment she continues reluctantly.

"Apparently, Cadrius had the same thought. It seems he feels that criminals dumb enough to get caught will make him better company."

Doubtless they grate less on his self-righteousness than the unpunished.

Clearly, he still wanted to punish himself for what he couldn't have. Shade blamed Paladin - Cadrius had been different before that damned holier-than-thou warrior had shown up - because she didn't want to look any further for the cause of his anguish. She is saved from further investigation of that line of thought by the arrival of an unusually tall elvish woman and her retinue of followers. She eyes them curiously before turning back to Nicos. Her ears perk up at the mention of Trak but she hides any interest in the discussion. She is very curious to see what Blarth will say.

[Black Plauge]

Left alone in his thoughts once more, Blarth begins going over that events of this confusing day, trying to get them straight in his head.

Okay, this morning Trak wasn't in his bed after he supposed to spend last night drinking. He was getting tired of the selection of liquors and ales here so he probably went out to find another establishment. What happened when he left? Why didn't he come back?

[Cadrius]

Darkness is all that greets Cadrius when his eyes open again. He isn't certain what time it is, only that it is still dark, and still very cold in his cell. He pulls the thin, ratty wool blanket over his shoulders and curls up into a heat-preserving ball.

The fiery determination to live is not dead, but he does not know how long it will last. His courage sags like a dying candle. How much wick is left? Perhaps he will burn his enemies with the remaining wax before the flame is extinguished.

"What're you in for?"

The question comes from somewhere to his left. Cadrius blinks and slowly sits up, keeping the moth-eaten blanket pulled about him tightly.

"Come on, I know you're awake."

The voice is deep and there's an accent, but he can't quite place it. He shakes the last vestiges of sleep from his body and rises. The voice is coming from the cell next to him, but a stone wall separates the two prisoners. So all he can hear is the man's voice.

"I confessed to defending a friend's honor," he says at last, a slight tremor in his voice. He isn't sure if he wants to proclaim his innocence after admitting to murdering three men.

The prisoner responds with a chortle. It's a dry, grating chuckle that reminds Cadrius of jokes and stories told by soldiers around the campfire while campaigning.

"Yeah, well, these Heiros'll pull you in for anything these days. Must be getting bored. Can't say that I blame them."

Anger. For a brief moment he feels anger and a bit of righteous indignation before it's quashed by reality. He's not a "Heiro" anymore and has no right. Hell, the man was probably right. He didn't even get a cursory interrogation.

Times change, he thinks, maybe Heironeous needs all the men he can get.

"No, probably not," he says quietly. A few minutes lapse before he speaks again. "So why are you in here?"

"Wrongly accused, wrongly accused." He man says, there's a tint of anger in his voice. There's something more, but he doesn't volunteer it and Cadrius doesn't press the issue.

"Have no fear then," Cadrius says, once again playing the part of the faithful follower, "if you truly did not commit the crime, they will find out and you will be set free."

The prisoner barks a laugh, and says, "Funny you say that. Sound like you're one of them."

"No," Cadrius says sadly, "I am not."

[Cadogan Trahem]

Cadogan responds to the man who offered him a bath,

"That would be delightful, but save it for the morning." The Mage says wearily. "I'm just a little too tired right now." Cadogan explains. "I'll just head to my room and we'll see about that bath in the morning." Cadogan says warmly to the man.

Heading off slowly towards where Cadogan remembers his room to be the mage stumbles un-noticed by most people and leans against a wall for a moment before regaining his ballance. The mage continues off out of sight - the wall where he once leaned smudged with a red running liquid... and on the floor where he walked droplets of the same liquid run and form in cold pools. Cadogan was bleeding.

Up the hallway Cadogan stumbles down the hallway, he draws nearer to his room but hears some strange sounds coming from Maekos room. Approaching the door of his trusted comrade, not knowing that she is inside, he investigates.

*Knock Knock*

"Maeko, is that you?" The words barely leave his mouth as the mage falls to one knee from exhauntion and fatigue with a thud.

[Maeko]

A knock on the door distracted Maeko from her thoughts.

"Maeko, is that you?" came Cadogan's voice. Before she could answer the nun heard a thud coming from outside her door.

Someone attacked him again. she thought, crossing the room and opening the door before realizing she had heard only one step and no fight noises.

He was there, kept on one knee by sheer will and, she realized, slowly bleeding to death.
" Let me help you, older brother." she offered, ready to carry him if needs be.
He, by reflex, stared at her with his unseeing eyes, a gesture that brought a sense of deja-vu to the small woman: Master Po, the blind unarmed-fight instructor of Phoenix' Song Monastery had the same unsettling habit of staring at his students as if he could see.

" I think it is a good idea" answered Cadogan with a wan smile.

Slowly, gently, the nun helped him to his bed, as soon as she closed the door she was running downstairs.

There where newcomers in the common room, luckily she soon localized Shade and Nicos sharing the rogue's usual table; her urgence almost making her clumsy she approaches them.

" Cadogan hurt. He needs help!"

[SponkleofInfini]

"Cadogan hurt. He needs help!"

Laronar jumps off his seat at the mention of Cadogan and his injuries. Quickly heading over to the Maeko, Nicos and Shade.

"Excuse me, may I be of assistance? I was with Cadogan today and owe him much; it is the least I can do."

Speaking with an anxiety riddled voice.

If he was that badly injured why did he hide it?

[itches]

Nicos' eyes automaticly flick over as MAeko enters the room, slightly suprised at the haste in which she does so. About to question her about Cadogan, he is interupted by Laronar.

Shrugging, he motions Maeko to show them the way.

"Lets have a look at our comdrad then."

[Cadogan Trahem]

Cadogan lay on his bed silent, but still breathing. The man had fallen asleep from exhaution, his sheets now stained with blood. Is undershirt bright rich red indicates where the wound is. Although something appears to be protruding through the clothing somewhat, its hard to tell but it looks like a broken shaft from a crossbow bolt. Although its utterly colourless and strangely black.

Cadogan doesn't respond to any characters entry although his familiar, Shrivel does. Jumping backwards and forwards across Cadogan's chest the bird does light pecks at his masters face.

"Karrrh! Help! Help!" Shrivel says inbetween pecks.

[itches]

Upon seeing the state the mage is in, Nicos drops to his knees next to him. Carefully examining the bolt without touching it, he becomes quite sure of what it is. Chanting a few lines under his breath, the bard stares intently at the wound for a moment, then looks away and shakes his head as if to clear his vision.

Sitting back on his legs, Nicos looks at the others.

"The bolt in him is magical in nature, and is still doing him harm. We need to get it out of him, and soon. Do any of you have any skills in healing?"

At the negative answers from the others, Nicos takes a deep breath and thinks for a moment - then starts giving orders.

"Shade, I need you to down the hall to the room on the end. Inside you will find my pack, and water skin. Get them and bring them here quickly."

Turning to Laronar, Nicos pulls his dagger out of his boot, and hands it to him, handle first.

"Laronar was it? Take this and heat the blade in that lamp. Get it as hot as you can, but only work on one side if it is easier and quicker."

Turning to Maeko and motioning her around to next to Cadogan, he explains what he intends to do.

"We need to get his tunic and under-shirt off, without touching the wound if we can help it. See if you can hold him still while I cut it away."

Pulling out his second dagger, the bard cuts the tunic, allowing it to be carefully, lifted away from the mage. Examining the shaft again, Nicos pulls out his ever present flask and pours some of it on the wound, causing Cadogan to go tense in his sleep.

Examining the wound again, and satisfied at the preliminary cleaning job, he tears some of the sheet off, just as Shade returns with his gear.

"Your just in time,” he greets Shade. "Can you get the water skin out, and slowly pour it around the skin around where the shaft is? I'll wipe the blood away with the cloth"

Quickly and efficiently, they make the wound, and area around it as clean as possibly, apparently with no extra pain to Cadogan either. Taking a deep breath, and letting it out slowly, Nicos once again turns to his dagger.

"Now comes the fun part. I need you - Shade and Maeko - to hold him still while I attempt this. I need to dig what's left of the bolt out, cutting away any flesh that might be holding it in. It will hurt him. A lot."

Waiting until the others have Cadogan secure in their hands, Nicos slowly and carefully pulls the wound open, making the blind mage writhe in pain, but revealing the bolt head, stuck behind a large clump of flesh - slowly oozing blood. Swallowing, the bard slides the knife down into the wound, and with a little flick, cutting away the flesh holding it in.

Quickly he pulls out the bolt, trying vainly to ignore the fact that it is covered in blood, and has bits of flesh hanging off it. Putting it on the floor, as far away from his as he can reach, Nicos turns to examine the wound again. Tearing off, a new piece of sheet, he motions to Shade to pour some water over the wound again, not trusting himself to speak for the moment.

Once to wound is cleaned again, Nicos faces Laronar. Motioning for him to give him the dagger, and to join the other in holding down the mage, the bard holds the hot-blade in front of him, speaking at last, slowly, and making sure he correctly forms each word.

"What I am going to do now, is going to hurt him to a point that few people feel. He is going to buck, he is going to scream, but you must hold him still for the duration."

Looking each of them in the eyes for a long moment, Nicos nods and moves the blade over the wound. Then he presses it against flesh, and instantly two noises fill the room.

One is a sizzling sound, accompanied by the stench of burning flesh. It is however, almost drowned out by the other. Twisting, and squirming under the knife, Cadogan emits a long, loud, pain filled scream - moving so violently he also throws off those holding him down.

For two or three seconds, Nicos holds the blade over the wound, and Cadogan screams. Two or three seconds, each one seeming to stretch out into eternity by those involved. Then so suddenly it is shocking, time speeds up again. Cadogan stops screaming as he passes out from the pain, and Nicos removes the blade, dropping it to the floor and visibly trembling. In the sudden silence, the noise of the dagger dropping seems blasphemous.

Moving away from them all, Nicos hunts through his pack - until he comes up with a small vial filled with a pink liquid. Putting it on the floor next to the dagger, Nicos gives some final instructions through ragged breaths.

"You need ... to make ... a ... bandage for ... the wound. Then get ... him to ... drink the ... potion. Can't do ... any more ... tonight."

Moving over to a corner, Nicos stares blankly into space for a long moment, absently rubbing his shoulder where his arm once stood. Then he shuts his eyes, and takes a stiff drink out of his flask.

[Gralhruk]

Blarth's reaction is surprising since up until now he had seemed terribly quiet - which, incidentally, is not a bad thing in her mind. Cadogan departs for his bath while Nicos and Shade resume their staring match. Mercifully, Maeko chooses that moment to rush downstairs with sobering news: Cadogan is in trouble.

In the ensuing chaos Shade finds herself upstairs and following the orders of Nicos, who seems to assume the leadership role easily. The dark woman grits her teeth as she holds the blind mage down. The bard is once again displaying that healing is a skill far preferable wounding.

The smell of burning flesh reminds her unpleasantly of another man, one who had died. Died because he was stupid. Or maybe just because nobody had been around with the skill to save him. Nicos collapses in a corner, gasping out some final instructions and breaking Shade out of her memories. She siezes the vial with one hand and squeezes Cadogan's jaw with the other. His mouth opens and she upends the vial into it, tilting his head and forcing him to reflexively swallow. She quickly dresses the wound, something she has learned out of necessity, before moving over to Nicos. Her eyes take in the others.

"Maeko, you should go back to bed - you still need time to heal. We should leave Cadogan to rest as well."

She helps Nicos to his feet, noticing the way he rubs his stump but pretending not to. Cauterized, no doubt, in a way similar to what he had just done for Cadogan. Her heart goes out to him and she wishes she had something to say that might ease his pain. She takes the flask from him and takes a drink from it herself.

"Let's go back downstairs and let him rest."

[Maeko]

"Maeko, you should go back to bed - you still need time to heal. We should leave Cadogan to rest as well."

Words that made sense, but for once Maeko had enough of sense.
" I have rested enough for now. I must leave soon, and I have things to explain" she answered, with just a hint of rebellion in her voice.
" The world is illusion, and desire is the root of all pain. I know it, I accept it....and in this moment I know how far I am from perfection.
I will obey, go, and suffer

Going out she looks at her companions of few days : Cadogan, pale as death, but thankfully out of danger, Shade, aloof, self-sufficient, always ready with a sharp retort but also ready to risk her life for them, Nicos, her former brother but can one really leave? exausted after his ordealit hurt him as it did Cadogan, Laronar the spirit-folk, Elf, she corrected herself, uncertain of his place yet eager to be accepted.

And those who weren't there: Cadrius, strong and true, used to lead, but with beasts inside that where eating him alive; Paladin who had left them; and the other, the candid one waiting now for his rebirth forgive me for not being there when you needed me .

Her heart went out to them all, brothers and sister. Back on Jade
Peak, she vowed, she would spend the rest of her days to pray the Perfect Master for their enlightenment.

The group sat at a table, Shade was sitting in front of Maeko, Nicos at her side.
" you said you are leaving?" asked the rogue, her voice carefully expressionless.
" I have been recalled, my mission here is completed" answered the nun, matching Shade's tone to conceal her inner turmoil.

[SponkleofInfini]

"Rest well friend."

Laronar whispers silently to Cadogan as the group leave Cadogan to rest for awhile. Nicos and Shade stand by the corner of the room, Laronar is left to guess why, but other matters concern him...that backstabbing trader.

"If you both arn't to tired, I guess I should tell you about what happened today."

Laronar's now weathered faceshowing considerable gloom and disdain over his current thoughts. He leaves the room, with a rather slow pace.

[Black Plauge]

As the comotion begins with Maeko coming down the stairs saying Cadogan was hurt, Blarth's thoughts are interupted for a bit.

Who's Cadogan? Oh, wait, he must be that blind man that went up the stairs a little bit ago. I wonder how he got hurt? If Trak were here he would know what to do, though its doubtful he could be persuaded to help a human very quickly. Given the way they reacted to my offers to help with Maeko earlier, I best stay out of the way.

Now where was I... ... ... Oh, yes, Trak must have gone out to find another drinking establishment. Now given that he was in jail today, he must have been arrested some time last night. He's been accused of murder, so he must have been close to the body when the guard found it.

Cadogan's scream revives Blarth from his thoughts and he stares blankly at the stairs until the others come down, looking exhausted.

[itches]

Finding he sitting in the corner of the common room with Shade again, Nicos takes occasional swigs of his flask, well on the way on becoming drunk, and drowning the memory of both the recent past, and some more distant.

Looking up to find Maeko and Laronar standing there. Pushing out two chairs with his feet, the bard motions them to sit.

"Sit down. It seems it is time for tales, and as everyone knows, a tale is the province of the bard. So we should all take turns. Maeko why don't you go first?"

[Maeko]

Maeko drew a breath and started, after a dubious glance to Laronar:“ You know I came West looking for stolen relic. The night of the theft a sister had be maimed for life, I had been tricked and incapacitated...it was my duty to recover the Bowl.

I told you I set myself up to be bait... what I did not tell you is that I was not alone: a group of sisters was always within scrying distance.”

Shade’s head came up, in her eyes Maeko could read a clear accusation ‘you have used us’.

“ They were not to interfere.” She added ” ‘No intervention at all until the thieves are located’ were orders.
When I was taken, they had the elements they needed to get in and capture criminal. I have been told he has confessed and has told the sisters all he knew. The Bowl of the Perfect Master has been recovered.”

“They would have left you to die” came Nicos’ voice, with the carefully precise pronunciation of somebody trying to appear sober.

“ My life not important, if I died it was karma, sister would have taken my place, or I, in my next life, or the next, would have picked up mission” answered the nun, the portrait of serenity.

[Gralhruk]

Not important?

The words penetrate the depth of Shade's anger, draining it away like water down a drain. She is left feeling empty and cold, wondering why this self-reliant woman would bend to such obscure winds. A glimmer of hope comes to her and she speaks up urgently.

"Stay, then. Here you are with friends, those who would stand by your side. You cannot believe that these sisters - ", the word is thick with contempt, " - care for you."

Surely the reasonable Maeko would listen to logic. Surely she would see that idealism and survival were two different things. Surely she would not leave.

[itches]

Listening to Maeko talk, Nicos is greatly reminded of the brothers from his old monastery, and their fanatic disregard for some of the basics of life.

Small wonder I left the order, When Lassil showed me what the real world was like.

Hearing Shade's offer for the nun to stay, Nicos shakes his head, disbelieving that she would accept it none the less he remains silent, just in case she does.

[Maeko]

They did not understand.
How could I hope that they would? They believe we have ony one life, they do not know of the Wheel and the Law.
And it is not the duty of the Order to bring knowledge and wisdom to the un-initiated? came a treacherous thought. For a moment Maeko saw herself travelling with her companions, her friends, bringing the words of Master Botahara to these dark, uncouth lands.

Shade and Nicos waited, what was that glimmer in the rogue's eyes? Hope? A wish that she did not dare speak aloud?

Maeko's heart turned in her chest, she and them had fought together, shared food and thoughts, saved each other's life, her mission was completed, surely it would be permitted to her to chose her own path, now...

Unbidden, an image came back to her: the day of her own consacration.

The whole monastery was in the 1000 Disciples Pavillion, lanterns and incense burning . Still giddy from her ordeal in the secret rooms, with the Dragon and the Phoenix freshly branded on her arms, in front of the whole community she had repeated the first words every novice learns by heart:

" I take refuge in the Perfect Master, I take refuge in the Law, I take refuge in the Order".

No 'buts' no 'ifs'.

She breathed deeply, there was sorrow in her eyes as she spoke, but she was careful not to let it tinge her voice.

" I owe my life to Order. I was left there, to live or die, during caresty. They took me in, trained me.
I believe what Order stands for, If I turned back now I would be ...just shadow.
I cannot stay".

Please, understand... begged her eyes.

[itches]

Tuning out the magority of what Maeko says, once it becomes clear she will be leaving regardless. Once she has stoped her mini-semon, Nicos holds up up his flask as if to give a toast.

"We'll them Maeko, I wish you the best with what ever fate brings you."

She is too wound up in it all. Better to cut this off, then make it any more painfull then it needs to be.

[Gralhruk]

Shade's own glass remains untouched as Nicos lifts his. She wasn't going to let it go so easily. She leans forward, her voice still low but the urgency has moved closer to anger.

"Because they took you in doesn't mean you still owe them. Your life isn't theirs, it is yours, to do with as you choose. Don't let someone else make you believe otherwise."

She sits back in her chair, eyes still locked with Maeko. Beneath the calm, Shade could sense the emotion there, just as she was sure Maeko could sense her own. The rogues shoulders slump just the tiniest bit and she turns her gaze away first. The monk believed in what she was doing, it wasn't out of guilt. That was clear no matter how much Shade wished it weren't.

She has more purpose than to wander aimlessly with me.

Deep down she had always known that, she supposed. How like Cadrius this woman seemed now - a servant to principles that Shade couldn't even comprehend. Destined for a higher purpose, confident in their decisions, comforted by their deeds. Her voice is soft when she speaks again.

"Very well. I can see you will go no matter what I say. Maybe one day you'll feel differently; if that day comes remember what I said."

[Maeko]

Maeko held the rogue's gaze for a long moment.

" I will remember, Shade". She said. slowly and clearly.

To the other woman it felt like a promise, Maeko had never called her by name before.

[Black Plauge]

As the others exhibit no sign of a fight, beyond looking worn out by something, Blarth returns to his thoughts.

Okay, so I got up this morning and went looking for Trak. I couldn't find him and the locals threw stones at me so I came back here. Sir Paladin was having breakfast and I asked him for help with finding Trak. We went to the barraks where we found out Trak had been arrested and was being held in the Temple of Heironious. We came back here, where Sir Paladin had a strange conversation with a couple of people, one of who is sitting over at that table.

[SponkleofInfini]

Laronar sits looking on, unsure of what is going on.

What is this, I only met her last night and she seemed content with these people; Why now?

Laronar is left to be a mere spectator as Nicos gives Maeko a warm hearted toast and farewell, and then Shade's less then comforting comments. Unneasy, Laronar clears his throat, slightly unsure of what to do, to keep silent or speak;

"I wish you good tidings, and whatever you decide upon brings you good fortune."

Returning to his glass of wine;

Perhaps not the best time to wish her luck.

Glancing upward to find both Nicos and Shade staring at him, giving him daggers.

[Black Plauge]

Then Sir Paladin got really weird and headed towards the Temple of his god. I followed as fast as I could and ended up fighting this really strange man who bled crystals. Sir Paladin was knocked unconcious during the fight, so I moved him out of harms way and went inside to check the temple. I found Trak inside, so it must have been the Temple of Heironious. Some guards found me in the temple and said that Sir Paladin's body had dissapeared. I went outside to help look for him but the guards didn't want my help and told me to come back here.



Hey, wait a minute, I haven't told anyone that Sir Paladin is missing. Those two over at the table who know him might not know yet. I better go tell them.

Getting up Blarth wanders over to the table where the others are. Standing on the perifery of the group he waits to be recognized.

[Cadogan Trahem]

A few moments pass as the Door explodes once more, this time two guards stumble into the room and after a quick glance around they up positions near the door and everyone stops and stares.

Three figures enter next. All three wear the same coloured robes, brown with gold trimming and strange runic and magical writing all over. The two at the back glance around the room while the third looks ahead up the stairs towards the rooms. Outside two more guards glance inside but remain outside near the open door.

"I'll take care of this, you two stay here." Says the man, in his early fourties with dark black hair.
"Agreed brother but what if we're too late?" Says another much younger towards the back.
"Remain quite neophyte, we've arrived as fast as we could." Said the man standing next to him.

The first man walks forward with suprising speed unchallenged towards the stairs and disappears up them towards the rooms, the two continue their conversation.

"But!" says the Neophyte.
"Just be quiet and pray to the three divine for their blessings." Answers the man calmly.
"Yes Master." Answers the Neophyte.

Only a moment or two pass before the first man's returning footsteps can be heard as he walks down the stairs.

"Is it as we expected?" Asks the 'master'.
"Nay, his wounds have been seen too - but just to be on the safe side I think we'll take him to our facilities where the trio can watch over him more easily." Answered the first man with a deep voice.

As he spoke Cadogan's form came floating down the stairs. Nicos near by jumped up and spat out his Ale on the floor. Although Cadogan still lay passed out his body seemed to float effortlessly in the air as though he was still laying in bed.

"Filthly." The man says staring at Nicos the 'drunkard' near by. "We should leave this place before we catch something."
"Agreed." Replied the Master.
"Wait!" Quickly spoke the Neophyte.
The two men remain silent but reguard the young boy.
"Perhaps, if his wounds are tended to I mean, there is someone here who helped, or even knows him?" Explained the Neophyte nerviously.

The two men pondered quietly for a moment staring at each other, before finally one of them spoke.

"Who here knows this man." He said outloud pointing to Cadogan's prone form hovering silently in the middle of the room.

[itches]

"Wazis?" Nicos slurs, now well and truely drunk, and staring at the sight of Cadogan floating.

"Thwiz an' ol' saying, thwiz.Whenz zepeople whos don't ment be afwy'n start, tim' ta sto' da drwinking"

Putting aside his alcohol, it takes Nicos a moment to hear the man speak.

"knowz'em yasay? 'o'cr'se i's knowz 'em. 'zez, lik' me brower, 'ez iz. lik' me brower. Zy, no' jus' tada, I adda ten' ta 'is urts I didz. lik' me brower!"

((OOC: Translation to non-drunk:
What is this?

There is an old saying, when people start flying, who are not ment to be, it is time to stop drinking.

Know him you say? Ofcourse I know him. He is like my own brother. Why just today I had to tend to his 'hurts'. Like my borther
))

[Gralhruk]

Cadrius, Maeko, even Itches: all gone and nothing she could do about it. Now these people showed up with the thought that they would just take Cadogan without his permission. On top of everything else, it was simply too much. Normally, Shade probably would not have gotten involved but things weren't normal at the moment. Maybe she got up because of the others that had left, or maybe it was just so she wouldn't have to think about them. Either way, her chair scrapes ominously as she rises and moves to block Cadogan's exit.

She eyes to wizards coldly, her hands resting easily on the twin hilts of her blades. Try me her eyes fairly screamed.

"I know him. And he won't be leaving here until he's well enough to do it on his own."

[Maeko]

" I know him too, And I agree with my friend here" added a short, bald woman who had been sharing the other two's table.
The Master had mistaken her for a boy at first, but he quickly revised his opinion, she was no boy, and sounded very determined.

[Black Plauge]

What in the name of Gruumsh? That man is floating in midair and sleeping at the same time! Standing with his mouth agape, Blrath blinks and rubs his eyes, unable to beleive what he sees. Dumbfounded he watches as the scene in front of him plays out.

[Cadogan Trahem]

The oldest man looked at everyone in the room, their comments apparently washing over him, avoiding making eye contact with Nicos he speaks.

"Who tended his wounds?" The man waits for an answer.

[SponkleofInfini]

They can't take Cadogan...they can't

Laronar remains seated, angered by the arrogance of these alleged wizards. Attempting to take Cadogan, without his consent, disregarding everyone. It didn't seem right to do this, it couldn't be right...it's not right.

Although the Parley had begun, Laronar was to gathered in his own thoughts. Although untimely, Laronar adds;

"He isn't going anywhere, not unless it is of his own will to do so."

[itches]

"Watz yo sa'ng" Nicos sluurs, trying to stand up.

"Didn' y'u no li'en ta me? I 'endededed 'ims 'oonds. ye' si', ma!"

At last it seems to penitrate the bards alcohol addles brain, the he didn't know these people, and he draws himself up, one hand out to the side to steady himself. Then speaking in a slow deliiberate way, to try and mask the fact the he is drunk he questions.

"Wait. Who are you, and where are you taking my freind?"



Drunk translation:

What are you saying?

Didn't you listen to me, I tended his wounds. Yes sir, me!

[Cadogan Trahem]

The man looks a little more then taken back by the claims made by Nicos but as no one contradicts them the truth soon comes to light.

"Give the man and any who helped him this - but only when he is sober." He tosses a bag of coins (300gp) towards Shade. He regarded the large number of people protesting.

"Cadogan will be coming with us, though I can see he has many friends here. Andromaus handle this matter while I take Cadogan to aid." The older man nodded to the master uttering a few words. "Oh and try not to miss your target this time, I'll meet you in the courtyard when you're done." The man's words echoed as both himself and Cadogan disappeared from sight as though neither where there at all.

"Listen closely - I will only say this once. Cadogan is with friends, and is getting much aid. Like all our kin his survival is far greater then any commitments he has made to you." The man tries to calm the anger swelling in everyone's eyes at the disappearance of Cadogan. He clears his throat before he continues.

"Any of you who wish to seek him will find him - in good safety and health - within the confines of our blessed Citadel, two days due North-west. Into the mountainous cliff ridden valleys of the wastelands. The path is not easy, and the goal is hidden but you will find your way if you truly seek that which is there." He steps back towards the Neophyte touching the young trainee on the shoulder.

"I will put forward a warning however to those who wish us harm and have hatred towards our magical practises and nature." The man speaks glancing towards some of the more shady characters around him. "We are well prepared to defend ourselves and fight, many of our number are skilled adversaries, and while we wish little to do with conflict, if conflict you seek then conflict will meet you on the cliffs of the desolated zones." Uttering a few more words in the form of a mumble. He and the young lad disappear into thin air also.

The guards in the room, look at each other before nodding towards the barkeep and exiting the tavern somewhat shocked and confused disappearing no doubt to report their encounter to their commander.

<OOC: Cadogan's tale continues in Subchapter 4b - The Citadel (http://www.online-roleplaying.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=1419)>

[Megamieuwsel]

The essence of what once was held in the body of a lean spellslinger , is floating in a state of near-oblivion.

"He's not ready yet."
.....
.....
.....
I'm not? Who said that?
.....
.....
.....
"What d'ya mean , not ready yet? Loki got him real good , if you ask me."
......
......
What appears to be ages passes...
.....
.....
.....
"Yep! And he's got some explaining to do for that too. Y'know how pissed Odin can be when fucked over by that little twit of your brother."
.....
.....
.....
Good grief! It's the gods themselfes. Why can't I see them?
.....
.....
.....
"PIPE DOWN MORTAL! We didn't ask you anything! Well Heimmdal ;Then what is the old man up to with this piece of dirt?"
.....
.....
.....
"Thor , you're such a jerk where mortals are concerned. You should do my job for a century or two....
You might actually learn something , though I doubt your abillities in that field.
And no : I don't have the faintest notion , what the Allfather is planning with this man , but I have a standing order to send him back."

Then: complete oblivion again.....

Untill.....
Wracking pains sear his body as Megamieuwsel writhes in severe spasms on the floor of the tavern-room.
...
Wait a minute! Body?.......

[Black Plauge]

As the strangers wink out of existance with the blind man, Blath's expression goes from one of dumbfoundedness to outright disbeleif. Frantically he goes over to where these people had been only moments ago and begins waving his arms around searching for any sign of their continued existance. So intent is he on his search that he doesn't even notice the arrival of the naked human until he trips over him, sprawling ackwardly on the floor. Shaking his head as he gets to his knees, Blarth looks back over his shoulder, expecting to see the chair he tripped over only to realize that chair was a person. Blown out of his mind, Blarth begins backing up on all fours, stumbling as he goes until his back is against the bar. There he sits with a look of terror and confusion on his face, clearly unable to comprehend what has happened.

[Black Plauge]

Shamus had done his best to ignore the presence of the three strangers in his bar, seeing as they were accompanied by guardsmen and all, but even the practiced calm of a bartender couldn't help but be shocked by their sudden disappearence into thin air. Blinking and shaking his head, Shamus makes a point of going back to cleaning his already clean bar until the noise from Blarth's fall causes him to look up again. Seeing the new arrival laying in the middle of the floor, Shamus grabs a bottle and a glass and pours himself a large glass of whiskey which he downs in one swallow. Calling for Claire to bring a sheet, towel, or something, he busstles his way out from behind the bar and makes his way over to the newcommer.

[SponkleofInfini]

Laronar slouches in his seat, staring down at the wooden table.

If he is in good hands...

"What shall we.."

Laronar, is interrupted by a sudden flash, squinting, Laronar focuses on the source, discovering it to be a man, naked, sprawled upon the floor. Blarth, tripping over the figure is shocked most of all, expecting something other then a man.

"What is this!! As Cadogan disappears, another man appears. What is happening...what!!"

[Gralhruk]

The bag of coins drops with an audible thunk near Shade, the rogue having made no effort to catch it. She bristles at the man's words, drawing her blades, but he is gone before steel clears leather. Her knuckles whiten as those left behind continue the hollow diatribe; she has a hard time paying attention as anger boils up.

"Those who wish him harm? It was his decision to travel with us and he would be dead if we hadn't helped. What right do you think you have to spirit him off like . . . "

Her words fade as the wizards simply disappear, leaving her with nothing else to say. She could feel Maeko's presence off to her side, and yet it does not comfort her. She would be leaving as well. Shade, who is more used to leaving than being left, feels the sudden departures deeply.

The excited shouts as another being pops into existence jar her back to reality. She spins fluidly, bringing her twin blade to a guard position, fully expecting that one of the wizards had returned.

Now we'll see who listens to who.

Instead, there is a man sprawled on the floor. Strangely enough (or not strange at all when compared to appearing out of thin air) the man was stark naked. Blarth seizes the opportunity to scramble backwards on all fours. Shade, far more weary of this day than hours can count, can only shake her head.

At least he's human.

The barkeep rushes over to care for his new guest - no doubt another paying customer will make him happy, though where he might be hiding his money was anybody's guess. Shade is content to leave the others to see to the man. She's had enough fun for one day. Wandering over to Nicos, she sheathes her swords and puts a hand on his shoulder.

"I'm going to bed."

She stops on the way to the stairs near a young, bald monk. Her gray eyes stare searchingly into Maeko's dark, almond shaped ones. She embraces the monk wordlessly for a long moment before holding her at arms length.

"Remember what I said. I wish you contentment where ever you go. I'll see you in the morning."

It wasn't likely, but she had never been good at saying good-bye.