The Beast Within (IC)

[Odentin]

We begin our tale in the city of Hollowmure, a human city on the northern shore of the Elinas Sea. Here, many incredible magical and technological advancements have been made, and as such the city is widely considered to be the shining center of innovation in this world. Hollowmure's influence has changed the world on the whole in a myriad of beautiful, wonderful ways. Closer to home, however, the changes the city has wrought are much, much darker.

On the outskirts of the city lies a ramshackle area of slums containing what the mago- and theocratical rulers refer to as the "dregs" of the city. Here, segregated off from even the lowest-class areas of Hollowmure, reside all manner of odd folk. From lycanthropes to half-breeds to other bestial creatures, though by and far the most pitiable residents are the once-humans. The once-humans, as the name suggests, used to be human, or at least humanoid. Somewhere along their lives, though, they were subject to hideous experiments performed by the researchers of Hollowmure, or merely exposed to some sort of magic or curse that warped their forms into what they are today.

No matter what the story, all manner of folk have been rejected by Hollowmure's elite and thrown into the slums, or else gathered to the slums of their own volition, to escape the persecution they met with in other parts of the world, or even in the (entirely empty) hopes that the researchers here would be able to cure them. No matter how hard life may be in the slums, the rest of the world reviles and hates these folk, driving most to stay.

And so, the slums persist. Only a select few are permitted to enter the lowest-class areas to trade and support shops within the slums, and some humans are willing to enter the slums to trade as well. The guards at the gate are vigilant about keeping the people of the slums IN the slums, and no one they brand as "dangerous" or "infectious" is allowed entry, for any reason.



Here in the slums is where we start our story, on what appears to simply be another day......


((OOC Thread.)) (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?p=11934836)

[Six]

Valentine heaved a sigh. It was bloody disgraceful being stuck in this hovel. A man of his stature. Bloody disgraceful. But the greater disgrace was to the burned fools who had put him there. He shifted, staring out the window of the tiny pub in which he rented his room, trying to ignore the clatter and shouting of the tavern's patrons, a hand ever on his spellbook and coinpurse, his other hand alternating between stroking his component pouch, and gripping the crossbow within his cloak. He had been lucky enough to intimidate the only patron he had had trouble with into running off, but he has to be careful.

[gunnar11]

Sortu was walking back home. It had been a busy day at the, well, temple, I guess. The so-called temple was actually nothing more than a little hut; something rich kids could only call a "treehouse". Still though, it was the only thing in this god-forgotten part of the city that could be used to pray. Even though Sortu knew this was a doomed place, he still had hope for the people. Lycanthropes weren't to be treated worse than any other humanoid, nor were mutants or others. That was what the temple was for: Hope, brotherhood and contact with the gods. Anyways, back to our story:

Sortu was walking back home. It had been a busy day at the temple, again. Thousands of persons coming in, for healing, blessing and holy water. Being the only temple in the slums meant having all the people coming here. Sundays were the best days. They were the only days in the week Sortu was allowed to enter the forest to go to the Protection Fountain to pray. Because not only was the city guarded, but the forest was too! These days were the ones when he could rest from his difficult but important work.
ANYWAYS:

Walking through the streets Sortu was carrying his sword. In these parts, even though deep inside they were good people, you needed to carry a weapon to be able to defend yourself.
While he passed the pub "Hairy Gnome's Playground", his neighbours he smelled the air of cigars, beer and bodily smells. He made way to his one-room house, lit the candle next to his bed, and sat on his bed, praying before going to bed.

[Gaius]

Will had been in the pub earlier (not that he planned to drink any time soon, after that time), and presently stood down a street not far from it. He'd decided to get some of what qualified as fresh air in the slums. And do one of the few things that legitimately brought him satisfaction, archeology no longer being an option. Thus, a wall to his back and a hat near his feet, he sang.

Passers-by would almost certainly not know it; it was from an ancient culture he'd studied extensively. Few alive could speak the language, presuming the accepted pronunciations were correct. So far as he knew, none could sing their songs, before he'd taken it upon himself. They might not be historically accurate, as such, but he'd always had an ear for music and a talent for song. They thus came out rather nice, if Will did say so himself.

The hat was there because he supposed it should be, but rarely had much to show for itself. He didn't expect a lot of money, and certainly didn't blame anyone in the slums for living up to that expectation. It gave him a feeling of fulfillment, however small, and that was enough. Besides, based on the small crowds Will sometimes drew and the impression most seemed to have of him, his little performances did earn him some favorable thoughts from those in the slums. Such could be beneficial to anyone, but particularly one who was well known for becoming a bit more... appetizing, from time to time.

[Kenji]

Raven paced slowly through the slum, halting merely a few feet from the pub. The time prior to this was spent observing the main gate from afar; with the occasional trespassing from other lycanthropes or worse mutants marking the climax of the event. Whether they were oblivious to their fate or simply foolish in their mind, the unfortunate consequences that befell upon them implied the severity of such action; daunting the others with similar motive.

After considerable amount of time and efforts were spent on the unfruitful reconnaissance, Raven fled back into the slum's vicinity; venturing deeper and deeper until he reached the pub. A facility previously oblivious to him, it became his favourite spot as of late. Entering the facility with it's ever-gloomy atmosphere, he skimmed the area for a comfortable seat before ordering the drink which could be considered high quality in their current state. Solemnly dining the side-dishes which came along with the drink, his sight fell upon the bard who was singing a foreign song; an activity which greatly contrasted with their surrounding.

Nevertheless, he continued to enjoy both the transient melancholic song and the bland food served forth by the waitress. There's really not much options to be picky nowadays.

[gunnar11]

Sortu ended his prayer, and 'returned' his mind to the human world. He found himself totally awake, and not still in need of sleep. As such he began cleaning his holy symbol, when suddenly he heard something. It was chanter of some kind. It sounded a bit like celestial, but it didn't resemble it enough for Sortu to comprehend it. It was a beautiful, but mourning song, and Sortu decided to go search for it.

Soon he found the source of the music: A man, standing in front of the pub. The cleric actually was happy that there were still people in this place that could lighten up the mood, even with such a grieving song. As such, the cleric approached the singer, and placed the back of his hand against the right shoulder of the man; a sign of the blessing of protection.

He then encountered himself thirsty, and entered the pub, to drink. He had to be aware of his neighbourhood's happenings after all, and he knew almost everyone there anyways.

[Odentin]

((Everyone seems to be at the pub, so let's begin, shall we?))


The afternoon wears on quietly, people going about their business as best they can. Suddenly, without any warning, a loud eruption emanates from somewhere a few streets away. The explosion can clearly be heard from within the bar. Outside, screaming can be heard from the direction of the blast, and people can be seen moving towards the area. Two of the four guards at the gate move towards the blast as well, silvered spears at the ready. The remaining two close the outer gates and stand ready.

[Kenji]

'Finally, something interesting actually happens in this hellhole.' After paying for the meager meal, Raven started for the exit of the pub; slipping past the crowd going to and fro the blast thereafter. As he edged nearer to the origin of the blast, he caught glimpses of the guards with the same motive as his; their deadly weapon held menacingly high on the air. Disregarding their presence, Raven ventured forth, though he was soon hindered by the growing crowd while the scene of action was merely feet away.

Unwilling to yield after going this far, he noticed the various buildings littering throughout the area. He gazed absent-minded at the structures for a moment before a plan formed on his mind, prompting a smirk across his face. Turning toward the secluded part of the slum, he slowly climbed his way onto one of the several buildings present there. Once atop, he secured a stable foothold before gracefully leaping from one roof to the other until he's near enough to witness the incident. Raven crouched as he tried to grasp what had occurred while keeping out of the guard's view.

Hide Roll
[roll0]
To stay hidden from the guards

Spot Roll
(1d20+9)[22]
Listen Roll
(1d20+9)[16]
For determining what had occurred

[Six]

Valentine stood immediately upon hearing the sound, grumbling something about wings, trying to spot Gaius as he calmly moved his way out of the building, coming to the same conclusion as raven and stowing his crossbow briefly to work his way up a different building, before redrawing the crossbow and half-casting the components to a spell, holding it in his off hand.

Spot: [roll0]
Listen: [roll1]
Hide if needed:[roll2]

[Gaius]

Will's song hadn't been mournful, or at least he hadn't meant it to be, but he had no way of knowing the cleric had taken such a tone from it. He gave a nod and a small smile to the gesture, and then continued the piece.

Several minutes later, his song was drowned out by the explosion. Will's head jerked in its direction and he watched the variety of reactions around him. Some slum dwellers rushing in that direction, others heading away, and many simply unsure of what to do. He pressed his back against the wall as two soldiers stomped past him.

Will scooped up the hat and any pay it might have held, and assessed the situation. 'Wow, don't hear that everyday... Hm... Okay. The best plan would be to keep some distance, and just find out about things later.' He nodded to himself. 'Yes, that'd definitely be the smart thing to do,' he thought, sighing as he started toward the explosion. It was rare that anything interesting happened, and his curiosity demanded its fix.

Will quickly noticed the massing crowd and started looking around for a better view. He noticed a couple of people beginning to scale buildings. 'Smart guys.' He felt this even more strongly upon noticing who one of them was. So, selecting yet a different building, he adjusted his clothing and equipment and began to scale it.

Hide: [roll0]
Spot: [roll1]
Listen: [roll2]

[gunnar11]

Sortu suddenly heard an explosion. Everyone ran out and to the place where the sound came from. "Seems the day isn't over yet..." Sortu murmurred, with a sigh. He still had some spells left for curing, and it seemed he was going to need it.

Arriving at the place, he couldn't get through the mass of people that had amassed around something that was there. "Move, move, healer coming through! I need to see the wounded, NOW PLEASE!"
The real reason was of course to feed his own curiosity, not necessarily to heal. But hey, if he could use his job as an advantage, he sure would! As such Sortu began makin his way through the crowd.


Spot:[roll0]
Listen:[roll1]

[Odentin]

The crowd barely registers Sortu's pleas, but he is able to worm his way through, anyways.

At the center of the crowd, and the object of the onlookers' attention, is a giant hole in the ground, opening up into the sewers below.

Some of Hollowmure's sewers run below the slums and into the sea. While some enterprising slum-dwellers managed to dig into them in a dew places, so that the slums would have some access to them for waste disposal. While this did make life somewhat easier for the people of the slums, it also came with its own problems. The runoff from the magical laboratories mixes within the sewers, often reacting in unpredictable ways. Often, its simply an acrid black smoke, billowing out from the metal grates, but sometimes the clouds that issue forth have other unpleasant and untold effects. Some of the citizens of the slums ended up here by getting caught in a smoke cloud within the city.

The hole in the street displays the sewer system, and the noxious, bubbling cocktail of chemicals that runs through it. Small bursts of flame erupt now and again from the mixture as it passes along on its way to the sea. The guards, apparently seeing nothing wrong, head back to the gate. As no one seems injured, the crowd begins to disperse slowly.

[Six]

Valentine's brow furrowed as he crouched upon the tip of the building he had climbed unto. A hand finding it's way to his smooth chin, he rubbed in thought, his sharp eyes observing every facet of the smoke. His teeth found his lip as he wracked his mind to see if he could come up with anything that the particular colors and tendencies of the smoke or explosion could signify


Knowledge(Arcana) check, if applicable: [roll0]

[Odentin]

Unfortunately, Valentine cannot discern any specifics about the cocktail of volatile chemicals flowing slowly through the (now open) sewer system. Arcane and alchemical labs use such a variety of odd and dangerous substances that once dumped into the drainage, there really is no telling just how they will react with one another.

There does not, however, seem to be any risk of further damage. Whatever the blast was seems to have been somewhat caused by a pressure buildup. Free of confinement and open to fresh air, the cocktail seems content to simply burn as it flows.

[Six]

After recognizing his inability to distinguish specifics on the substances within the cocktail, Valentine slid his way down the opposite side of the building, shoving his way rather rudely through the cloud until he came to the hole, seeking a place from which to obtain purchase to delve into it. It was his arcanists curiosity which drove him.

[gunnar11]

Sortu stood beside the hole. He wondered what the substances were that could be seen in the sewers. He also wondered where they lead to, what mysteries could be unraveled there. At some point another individual came to stand beside him, also seemingly interested in the contents of the sewers.
"Intruiging, isn't it? I wonder what caused that explosion." Sortu said.

[Six]

Valentine glances to his right, briefly taking in the man next to him before speaking. His voice came out cleanly, like the cut cubes of ice which came down from the north during the summers.
The explosion itself seems to have been caused by pressure buildup from the gas filling the space too quickly. As for the gasses themselves, I cannot speak for what they may be.

[Kenji]

Raven looked on as distinct disappointment could be seen on him. Noticing the two individuals flocking at the hole, he followed suit as he leaped gracefully onto the ground. As he paced nearer toward the hole, a thought came onto his mind before it gradually degrading into an irresistible urge. Now with his heart pounding with excitement, Raven sped toward the hole before making another leap onto the sewer, maneuvering his fall in an attempt to land on solid ground, if any.

[Odentin]

((Need a jump check...))

[Gaius]

Before getting far up the building, Will's eyes displayed some recognition at the sight. It was the first example he'd seen of such a thing, but he'd never crossed 'sewer explosion' off the list of possibilities. It was likely an accident. Though that wasn't guaranteed.

Down from the building, Will walked past the dispersing crowd, trying not to give anyone any trouble. He managed to hear Valentine's assessment. "Mm. So, maybe just an acci..." He trailed off and stepped aside as someone from the crowd took a running leap at the open hole. Without looking, funnily enough. Will didn't know what to say to that.

[Odentin]

As the others can simply watch, Raven takes a flying leap into the sewers. The air around him increases in temperature increases immensely as he falls, the magical concoction burning much hotter than he would have expected. He does manage to land on a small ledge on the opposing side of the channel, but is instantly repaid for his act as the stifling heat engulfs him completely, searing his lungs with every inhaled breath.

((4 damage, DC 15 Fort save or take 1 nonlethal and become fatigued. Take a -4 on that for wearing armor, too...))

[Kenji]

Raven let out a soft shriek as he flailed to secure a foothold. 'Not as planned, but still good nonetheless... just gotta breathe a lot less.' Raven whispered to himself as he tried to have a good look of his surrounding. Deeming the act of lingering within the heat as detrimental, Raven tried to move toward the capital in an attempt to ditch the chemicals.

[Six]

Valentine uttered a loud curse before snapping into action, his arms flailing about in rapid gesticulation as words of power, spoken in the infernal tongues bled forth from his mouth, leeching his arcane might into the world. A stern flip of his hand saw a large dog, angelic in appearence, standing at his side.

Mere moments later, another series of words, and in the dog'a place stood Raven, and in Raven's the dog. Two more seconds, another word, and the ddog vanished, leaving Raven standing next to a very miffed seeming Valentine, his feminine locks belying the frustration on his face.

Extended Summon Monster I, followed by Benign Transposition. One can find Val's "Standard" spells per day on his character sheet.

[Kenji]

The sudden change scenery and temperature caught Raven off guard as he tripped himself to a fall. Rising up slowly due to the dizziness, Raven set his eye upon his savior while whispering a brief 'Thank you' before instantaneously distancing himself away from her; after noticing how close they were. Moments later, after his much needed fresh air, he addressed to his savior again; this time with more formality.

'Thanks for your help, miss. It is rare to see such kindness nowadays; given the location we are in. How may I repay your kindness for saving me earlier?' Raven said while constantly fidgeting to get accustom with the broad road after the prior experience.

[Six]

A faint flush made it's way across Valentine's face as his fists tightened, a valiant effort keeping his hands from his light crossbow as he tossed back the hood of his robe.
That would be sir, good elf. But nonethless-
He said, trying desperately to control the tightness of his diction, inclining his visage, a few of his locks falling forward with said movement.
Your gratitude is received with much mirth, as is your current state, that being ther living one, sir elf.

[Kenji]

'Ah, pardon my rudeness! Must be the heat from before getting into my head,' said Raven in between subdued chuckle. Clearing his throat while trying hard to dismiss the previous assumption, he spoke up again; this time with a huge sly grin on his face. 'Now, that won't do sire. How about if I treat you to a drink in a pub nearby? Had been there before that... accident occurred.' Raven looked expectantly for his reply; readied to make a dash should his savior decided to swap his position, again.

[Six]

A faint chuckle rose from Valentine as he visibly relaxed, a swift nod signalling his approval.
Free drinks are always appreciated, kind sir. And they are ample enough reward in these troubling times.
Will's presence still having escaped his notice, he gave the Elf a clap on the back, beginning to move towards the pub from whence they came, introducing himself as they walked.
My name is Valentine Bresario. What do you go by, my new friend?

[Kenji]

Raven readily accepts the clap as he smirked at the idea of 'friend'. Starting toward the pub as well, he replied, 'The names goes by Raven Tyrneanddare, simply Raven would suffice. Further inquiries should be done in the pub; given how appropriate it is.' Thereafter, Raven remained in silence while keeping a slight grin across his face until they reached their destination; unwilling to share much personal information amidst the crowds.

[Gaius]

Will enjoyed that little display, and made no effort to hide it. He fell into step after them to the pub. He wouldn't be drinking, but his voice could use a rest, and, well, one who leaps into a recently exploded sewer without a second thought must make interesting conversation.

"Sensible," he nodded to Raven's assessment, making the two of them aware of his presence. "One never knows who might be listening in, out here." He smiled, giving Val a nod in greeting, should the fellow scholar turn to look. "Incidentally," he added for Raven's benefit, "your eavesdropper of the moment goes by Will Dresden."

[gunnar11]

Sortu was confused. Someone summoned a monster, then suddenly the monster vanished, making place for an elf. Then the elf began speaking to the one next to him (referred to as Valentine) as if he was a she, and after some formal talk they walked together to the pub. Weird...

No-one in the slums spoke that way. If you did, you would be the first person to get mugged or worse. Sortu decided he'd follow these people, to see where they get such confidence from, and what they're planning to do.

[Six]

Valentine barked a surprised laugh, throwing an arm around Will's shoulders and drawing him up to walk next to him
William, my good friend! It's been far too long and I've missed you so!
He said, still laughing heartily.
Your music would have been appreciated and more by me these dreary days, with the pub's sounds too loud for me to so much as open a book. Gentlemen, a round for all of us, and on me. We'll find the best that dump has, and buy it all!

[Odentin]

The tavern is slightly more populated than usual for this time of day. In the low murmur of several conversations, mentions of the explosion can be heard repeatedly.

[Six]

Valentine leads his newfound friends to an unoccupied table, waving over a barmaid and saying into her ear over the din.
Your finest bottles of whiskey and wine for our table, and a round for everyone who comes in tonight. Let them know the name Valentine Bresario.
He gently pushes two heavy platinumcoins into her hand before adding in a single gold one, saying with a jovial tilt to his voice.
And that's just for being a lovely young woman.
Sending her off, he turned to his, presumably seated, acquaintences, extending his hand to each in turn, excepting Will, whom he had seated hismelf adjacent to.
Valentine Bresario, gentlemen.
He said, shaking each hand in turn, with a firm but not crushing grip.
It is truly wondrous to meet all of you here.


Gold subtracted from sheet.

[Odentin]

The (fairly hideous) lizardwoman takes the coins and retreats behind the bar for a few moments, returning with two dusty-looking bottles and 8 glasses, four lowball and four wine.

[Six]

valentine expertly moves the glasses into seperate rows, pouring some of the wine for himself and sliding the glass back to sit near where his right hand would lay at rest when he reclines into his chair. After moving his own drink into position, he re arranges the bottles so their row remains proportionate with that of the lowball's, before popping the tops off each bottle, holding one in each hand.
Gentlemen?

[Kenji]

With the excitement from before slowly dwindled, Raven found himself settling down opposite to the jovial wizard who doubled as his savior. His negligent attitude toward the value of wealth slightly irritated Raven, especially with the current economy they were in. Disregarding the triviality along with Valentine's peculiar sense of beauty, Raven rested his index fingertip on the glass before deliberately sliding it around its brittle surface.

'Gentlemen?' Raven finished the word with a slightly reserved chuckle. 'Of all thing, I wouldn't call myself that. Bound by society rules isn't exactly my preference.' Raven swiftly retracted his fingertip before gracefully pouring some wine on the designated glass. Shaking it gently, he took a deep breath of its fragrance as he continued, 'Perhaps I am not the best partner to savor wine with, given how oblivious I am to its etiquette.'

Attentively lifting the glass within eye-level, his seemingly gleaming eye indicated mild resent as he started speaking in a rather melancholic manner, 'However, I certainly would like to share this moment with you all; given how unique our meeting is. For long-lasting friendship, if I may.' Raven took a brief sip of his wine as his eyes slowly set itself upon William. 'To this gentleman known as William as well. The name's Raven. It's a pleasure to meet you.' With the formal introduction concluded, Raven took a deep swig before setting his glass down proportionately as before.

It bewildered me how I actually search the net for proper way of savoring wine :smallbiggrin:. Oh, and since we are a trio so far, is there any particular reasons for a fourth glass? Some etiquette unknown to me, perhaps?

[Six]

Valentine briefly inclined his hand, and glass towards Raven just prior to taking a sip from the vessel contained therein.
I am of the opinion that one does not need, necessarily, to operate under specific rules to be a 'gentleman' but rather that one must simply remain generally respectful of those who deserve such respect. Not that one follow silly rules given by silly lords who pretend to be something other than what they are.

[gunnar11]

Sortu enters the bar, and sees the odd trio sitting at a table. Well, odd? What's odd nowadays?
He decides to go for the subtle way: just go and ask
"Hey there" Sortu says, after hearing Valentine say "Gentlemen"
"How come you dare to do that? You know you're goingto get stabbed in the slums, for speaking this way, right? Or do you just buy it off with all the free drinks? You're also going to get mugged with that much money on you..."
A priest cares about everyone's life

[Gaius]

((OOC: Ack, sorry about the random delay, everybody. >_< Internet's been a little inconsistent for a while now... Hopefully there won't be as much of a delay in the future))

Will allowed Valentine to pull him into place on the way to the pub, with a smile and shrug. "Not much variety to be had in the slums, but I seek what little I can when I pick a singing spot. Though it has been a while since I'd used the pub for it, you're right."

Once arrived, he planned to mention his intent to go easy on the drink, but then reconsidered: why damper the lively atmosphere? He'd just drink carefully. Smiling at his interaction with the lady, he shook his head, "Such generosity may be the death of you, but it'd be a sad day that you lose it."
Will took a sip and issued Raven a friendly addendum, "Will or William, as pleases you. Val's simply made his own choice.
"And he speaks truly about the nobility: it's not worth worrying about." He grins. "In fact, for all their pomp and circumstance, it's rarer than you might think that one of them will note a problem. They may be too busy ensuring they aren't committing a faux pas." He gives the term as dainty an emphasis as he can.

Will turns to the gently reproving Cleric, looking somewhat amused. "Ah, the priests preach cynicism here? Wonders never cease." His cheery expression makes clear that he means it all in good fun. "But in fairness, much as I feel there's more trust in these slums than I know I'd have guessed, discretion isn't completely without merit. Strength in numbers, and all that. Care to join us?"

[Six]

Valentine glanced over the rim of his glass as he took his first sip of wine, saying calmly to Sortu.
I am not about to compromise either my desires or my persona for the sake of my coinpurse. Anyone who tries to pry it from me will find themselves in one of various types of pain before their blade can near me.

[gunnar11]

This person did seem to be aggressive. "No need to take it out on me, sir, I'm just one of the three priests of these slums, I won't steal from you." Sortu said. Better watch out for these lads.
"As I asked before to one of you: What do you think caused this?"

[Six]

Valentine shook his head quickly, perhaps vaguely miffed at the misunderstanding as his curls flew about
No, no, I'm not upset. Merely attempting to leave you entirely assured of my abilities. But a priest is indeed a good sign, and never bad company. Would you join us?

[Kenji]

'What had cause that hole you ask? Perhaps some mad scientists failing their experiment, dumping them into the sewer AND THEN it works. It's pretty common around here, if you are intrigued,' said Raven in between sips of his newly poured wine. The wine had worked well on him; prompting him to imbibe more and more of the substance, as if addicted to it. Upon hearing Valentine's invitation, Raven added, 'I shall extend the offer myself as well, if you will.'

[gunnar11]

"Thank you." Sortu said while sitting down. He was tired of the run, and trusted these men enough to sit with them.
When offered wine, he refused: "Sorry, but we're not allowed to drink" referring to the priests in the slums.
"Something to do with this place." he murmurred

[Six]

(Posting in hopes of resurection)

Valentine let out a gentle laugh, clearing a wineglass away from the opened seat.
Well, drinking or not you're very welcome at our table, and I'd fain to see you sit here than with some of the rabble in this place, acceptable people as most of them are.

[Kenji]

Upon hearing Valentine's remark, a frown formed across Raven's face. 'I'm slightly offended by the word 'rabble'. Sure, some of them might not be the best of gentlemen out there, however, I doubt many of them are here out of free will, much less any other choice than to adapt to our current situation.'

Unwilling to spoil the previously tranquil atmosphere, Raven paused momentarily to regather his thoughts, after which he continued in a much cheerful tone than before, 'Nevertheless, let's not get ahead of ourselves shall we? I'm Raven Tyrneanddare. This is Valentine Bresario, our... 'host' of the day, and that's Will Dresden. What's your name, if I may inquire?' With that said, Raven extended his hand toward Sortu, implying a mutual handshake should be done.

[gunnar11]

Sortu answers this friendly gesture and speaks: Sortu is my name, a cleric of the light-giving gods, and one of the sole three priests of this town. Cheers he says as he drinks his water. After that he continues: I must say this place gets more and more depressing by the day. There is less food, and more fights. I just wish we could do something about it! slamming his fist down on the table.

[Gaius]

Will listens, smiling at the other three and nodding at his introduction. "Certainly have been some ugly sights in this place. I'm glad to have caught some bright spots now and again. Someone helping up a fallen child and leaving the money pouch alone, or passing alms to a legless beggar... Helps keep me from getting too jaded." He takes a tiny, thoughtful sip of his drink. "Tough to say what they're thinking, I grant, but I'm an optimist."

At Sortu's interjection, Will dips his head slightly. "Indeed? Val and I haven't been here long enough to notice such a downturn. And it seemed the slums were living off table scraps already..." Frowning, he sips again from his glass.

[Odentin]

The group continues talking for a few hours, as patrons come and go from the tavern, taking advantage of Valentine's generous tab. At the end of the evening, the tavern closes and the patrons, along with the group, disperse to their respective lodgings.

The next morning, the hustle and bustle of the slums begins anew, though around the crater, the foot traffic seems to be more congested more than usual. Some people stop for a few minutes, staring down into the sewers, while others simply have less road to move along.

In the sewer, the alchemical concoction that caused yesterday's explosion has washed away. No longer is the tunnel on fire...

[Six]

In the morning, after a swift breakfast, Valentine moved without waiting for anyone else. He slipped on the simplest of his dark brown cloaks, buckling it about his body to keep sewage off from his clothing. With his weapons close at hand, and pack on his back, he carefully slid his way down into the sewer tunnel.

[Gaius]

((Sorry about the delay))

Will rises a bit earlier, and simply wanders the streets. He keeps away from the particularly dangerous areas, but otherwise lets his body take him where it will. Which turns out to be the site on everybody's mind, the open sewer. He simply mills about, wondering what exactly had caused the explosion. He also wonders how bad an idea it would be to try seeing where the tunnel leads.

Not too bad an idea for one man, apparently. Will catches a glimpse just before the descent, and got a surprise. '... Val? Huh.' The archeologist heads to the edge the mage has just left. "So... Bit of amateur spelunking?" He prepares to join his friend below.

[Kenji]

Raven stepped out awkwardly from his room as the slight hangover persisted from the prior drinks. In an attempt to shook off the unpleasant feeling, he decided to take a look at the site of the explosion. After all, what may be better than free pharmaceutical product? Within minutes of his arrival, the sight of William left him in a soft chuckle. Approaching the person in question, Raven inquired, 'What are you doing here? Imitating me will not bring you anywhere you know.'

[Six]

Val grins up at Will and Raven.
Morning there, gents. A bit, yes. Without the fire it shouldn't be quite so dangerous, and I've done my best to tailor my spells for today in such a way as to keep me safe, should anything go wrong down here. Join me if you wish.
Flicking his hair back from his face, his dainty features narrowed in concentration (though retaining their good humor, of course) he continues his descent.

[gunnar11]

Sortu was walking to the temple-kind-of-thingy, when suddenly he noticed Will, Val and Raven near the prior explosion-caused hole. They were looking into it, and moving towards it. They were now descending i... Descending? what are they thinking!?
Hey! Hey! Wait up! Sortu said, now moving at full speed towards them.

[Odentin]

There is a small ledge within the sewer, serves as a sort of narrow catwalk. Unlike the rest of the sewer, it is not completely submerged, just slick. Walking along it should not be a problem, but more intense movement might come at the risk of falling in.

The sewer itself is dark. The only other light that Val can see is a grate about 100' towards the ocean, away from the city. Towards the city, no other lights are visible.

A river of alchemical liquid lazily rolls by, occasionally popping or fizzing as random mixtures form. It smells foul.

[Six]

Val wrinkled his delicate nose, using his cloak to wipe sweat from his forehead and soot from his hands. He bent his head up, locks falling back behind it elegantly, and called out with a wide child-like grin.
Come on down! I lived, after all!
Followed by a soft chuckle.

[Kenji]

'Give me a few moments for me to reconcile with my traum afirst...' Having said that, Raven circled the hole for a great few moments before making a light descend down the pit. Ensuring that he would land behind Valentine, he spoke with slight sarcasm, 'Lesson learnt. Never be the first one to move. Never.'

[gunnar11]

You always need someone to go first. but you're right: it is reckless sortu says, just having caught his breath.
why are we descending again?

[Odentin]

((Oh, derp. Tieflings have darkvision.))

As Val takes another look down the tunnel, his eyes adjust, and he can see that the tunnel forks up ahead, towards the city, into what appear to be two, slightly smaller, tunnels.