Department of Mysteries IC

[VestigeArcanist]

The basement is dark, lit by multiple magically sustained candles. There are selves of books and tomes of forbidden and forgotten knowledge on one wall, cages of dead, dying and magically mutilated animals on another wall, and the other walls are covered by notes, diagrams and scribed and re-scribed runes. The air smells of ozone and damp mold.

There are many other small details about this room, such as a small desk with a lamp protruding from a human skull, but you do not have the luxury of noticing such things when there is a black tentacled, otherworldly monstrosity protruding out of the floor from a void of black, the floor itself being a large circular ornate and glowing silver design. The wizard who calls himself the “Void Magician” is caught up and being shaken by one of the 13 black tentacles, whiles his assistant is being knocked unconscious in a corner, thankfully unnoticed by the eight hideous creatures (Dogs? Cats? Gorillas? You are unsure) which are guarding, it seems, the cardinal points of this ritual gone horribly wrong (or right?).

Siana Mairwen Morgan has been caught up by these tentacles as well. The others were more fortunate to avoid the monster, but have been mildly injured in spite of staying out of its grasps.

Either Godur or Imbasel may act first, Then al'Lan Mandrag, then Omeganaut, then finally the bad guys. Please post at least one every 24 hours, or we may be forced to skip you. If you let me know ahead of time that you may not be able to post, I may take over your character as a DMPC, or have another player take over your in-combat actions.

[Godur]

Siana grunts and curses loudly as the black tentacles caught her, and she struggles with all her body to get lose. Slipping her right hand out from beneath it, just before it was caught.

She raise her wand and use it to make a slashing motion towards the base of the tentacles holding her. "Diffendo!" she shouts, focusing her magic to sever the black flesh of the tentacle.


Target DC is 20.
Charms roll:
[roll0]
Attack roll:
[roll1]
Damage if it hits:
[roll2]

[VestigeArcanist]

A purple light bursts out of the wand when Siana casts the spell. A nasty severing noise is heard when it hits just above the base of the tentacle, which is sliced through, causing it to fall down like a tree, with Siana still entangled in it. The tentacle is still trashing around, as it was seperated from the main. A shriek is heard originating from the inside of the void hole, which Siana is just ten feet from.

Siana may spend the rest of her turn stnding up, if she so chose

[Godur]

Siana pushes the severed tentacle away from her with both hands as she tries to get herself away from them. After a couple of moments worth of struggling she crawls out of the mess and stand up on her feet. "Ugh..."

[al'Lan Mandrag]

Frederick

Glad that his colleague had managed to save herself, he ran over and kneeling, tried to help her out of her entanglement.

He raised his wand, but wasn't quite sure what to shoot. In the end he decided this bl**dy ritual was the source and turned his wand on it, blasting away.

Reductor curse. I'm suddenly surprised that all the spells that are are missing: I'd never noticed before.
Can I just do a curses and counter curse roll and you determine results?
[roll0]

If not, diffindo at the tentacles holding the Void Magician.
[roll1]

[VestigeArcanist]

The eight foot tall wizard by the name of Black loses focus when assisting his partner up. His spell shoots in between the tentacles striking one of the cages on the far side of the room, damaging the bars on it considerably.

[Omeganaut]

Janice looks at the situation and decides to cut free the magician. After all, if that monstrosity takes him with it, she loses her culprit, and thus her esteem. Seeing Diffindo as the best option, she quickly casts it at the tentacle holding Mr. Void.

[roll0][roll1][roll2]

[VestigeArcanist]

Staying calm, Janice surgically cuts down the tentacle holding John Lowry, who falls leftwards. Another shriek is heard, though it sounds more angry than painful. The remaining 11 tentcles start shaking violently right before William acts.

[Omeganaut]

Whirling quickly, Janice follows up with a stupefy spell to see if she can stun the thing. It's worth a shot so that her team, now all able to cast full out, can do the most damage possible. All due to her actions of course. A quick shout and the spell is cast.

[roll0]
[roll1]

[VestigeArcanist]

Despite her skillful wandwork, the red light of Janice's stunner hits another tentacle, just to have it bounce off, thankfully hitting the ceiling rather than back towards herself. The creature (or at least the tentacled part you see protruding from the void) seems unaffected.

Spot check DC 15
With each spell striking the creature, you see the silver rune briefly light up before it fades back.

[VestigeArcanist]

William Weatherson Though so on the up take, notices the 8 eight menacing creatures which have evaded his comrades notice. Raising his wand he seeks to strike at them, lest they are violent. He aims at the two nearest animalistic abominations, what appears to be an ape and a badger... He shouts Petrificus Totalus! Petrificus Totalus!

Attack rolls [roll0],[roll1]
DC 20, Curses Rolls [roll2],[roll3]
William takes 3 nonlethal damage from casting the spells.

[VestigeArcanist]

Unfortunately, while his first spells obviously hit his target, the spell seemed not to affect the ape, while the second spell missed wildly.

Just then, John Lowry, also known as the Void Magician, is lost behind the chaos of the failing tentacles. Two of them come down on Siana, one of them come down on Fredrick. The other tentacles strike somewhat wildly, as though it does not see where it is aiming. one of the monsters (that you see) is killed.

Those creatures attack as well, two of them charge at Janice and William, a boar-like creature with what looks like its head split open and an extra appendage growing out, and a malformed dog, both a sickly color of gray and green, making it difficult to looks at (-1 to attacks, morale effect). The boar misses Janice but the dog takes a good bite out of William.

Four other creatures, two wolves, the ape and the badger, all of them the same sickly color and deformed, attack Siana and Fredrick . Neither wolf successful hit Siana, but Fredrick was injured but both the ape and the badger.


Fredrick takes 21 damage.
Siana takes 5 damage.
William takes 6 damage.

Initiative is back at the top, however, we will go to party initiative for this battle.

[al'Lan Mandrag]

Frederick Black

Frederick shouts and yelps as the tentacles and creatures descend on him, mauling and tearing.
"Sectum--SEM-PRA!" Frederick manages to yell. Laying about him and cutting the creatures apart.

Against the animals attacking him.
Curses roll: [roll0] (Not cast)
Ranged attack roll: [roll1]
Constitution damage: [roll2] +bleeding, 1d6 damage each round

Curses roll: [roll3]
Ranged attack roll: [roll4]
Consitution damage: [roll5] +bleeding, 1d6.

Overall now taken 7 points of non-lethal damage (2 from diffindo, 5 from sectumsempra)

[Omeganaut]

Janice shouts to the others, organizing a strategy on the fly. "Stop the animals attacking you, then cut those tentacles. Shout if you're about to collapse!" With that Janice follows her own advice, reasoning that the animals aren't any more likely to be stunned, lays about herself with her wand trying to defeat the boar. Magical Blast [roll0][roll1][roll2]

If the boar goes down, diffindo on the nearest tentacle, otherwise another attack (-5 skill roll). [roll3][roll4][roll5] If blast, take two dice

[VestigeArcanist]

In his haste to save himself and his teammate, the burly Frederick Black fails to properly execute his first spell. His second attempt, however, successful connects to the abominable ape directly in front of him. With a great big slash, a massive series of gashes appear on the ape. The ape keeps his up his rampage, albeit while greatly injured.

About 20 ft away, the analytical Janice attempts to fend off the boar who had just gored her. She blasts the boar twice, but it fails to stop the beast.

[VestigeArcanist]

Siana Mairwen Morgan

Being attacked by two mutated wolves makes a bad day for Siana. She aims to dispatch them quickly so she can get arrest this Magician.

Stupefy!, Stupefy

Attack Rolls [roll0], [roll1]
Curses & Counter Curses [roll2], [roll3]
Caster level Check vs Spell Resistence [roll4], [roll5]

William Weatherston

An oracle of growing power, William takes a half moment how he may successfully cast his next spells.

Skill Bonus Class Feature
Divination Check [roll6]

46-15=21/5= +4 on skill checks this round

[VestigeArcanist]

William Wetherston

Seeing how he may do this, William takes aim at the dog in fornt of him, and (if he is successful) at the boar attack Janice, whom is adjecent to him.

Stupefy!, Stupefy!


Attack roll: [roll0], [roll1]
Curses check: [roll2], [roll3]
Caster level Check vs spell resistance: [roll4], [roll5]

[VestigeArcanist]

William barely manages to stun the mutated dog biting at him, but fails to assist his comrade. Siana herself paniced, lost focus and missed both wolves with her spells.

The boar attempts to gore Janice, while the mutated ape and badger bite and claw at Fredrick, and the two wolves visciously aim to rip apart Siana.

The tentencles suddenly stopped flailing around. Then, the slam down, not to hit anything, but it seems to be pushing down on the area right around the circle. Almost as if it were trying to lift itself up from the void...

John Lowry still remains unseen.


Boar Attack vs Janice: [roll0]
Damage if successful: [roll1]

Ape Attack vs Fredrick: [roll2], [roll3], [roll4]
Damage if successful: [roll5], [roll6], [roll7]

Badger Attack vs Fredrick: [roll8], [roll9], [roll10]
Damage if successful: [roll11], [roll12], [roll13]

Wolf Attack 1 vs Siana: [roll14],
Damage if successful: [roll15]

Wolf Attack 2 vs Siana: [roll16],
Damage if successful: [roll17]

[al'Lan Mandrag]

Frederick Black

He regretted his use of dark magic, but knew that his family used it for a reason: it was powerful and destructive. He stepped back from the monstrous creature attacking him and bellowed once more, hoping that this time he wouldn't mess it up. "Sectumsempra!" He yelled slashing with his wand.


[roll0] bleeding damage on the ape.

Attacks target Ape until it falls, left over attacks on the wolf attacking Siana.

Curses roll: [roll1]
Attack roll: [roll2]
Constitution Damage [roll3]

Curses roll: [roll4]
Attack roll: [roll5]
Constitution Damage [roll6]

Both cast, both beat DC by 5, so 4NLD per spell.

So HP 49/89
Non-lethal damage: 15

[Godur]

Siana instinctively take a step backwards to avoid the strong jaws of the wolves, while flicking her wand in the direction of one of them. "Stupefy!" She shouts, hoping that she'll hit this time. Without pause she then turn her wand to aim at the other wolf. "Stupefy!"


Attack Rolls:
[roll0]
[roll1]

Curses rolls:
[roll2]
[roll3]

Caster Level Vs Spell-resistance:
[roll4]
[roll5]

[Omeganaut]

Janice unleashes the spells immidiately at her disposal, trying to drive off the boar that is trying her patience. Summoning up all her duelist skills, she fires off not two but three quick blasts of diffindo at the beast bothering her.

I shoulda looked at my feats better. Dualcast might just help, or maybe just useless. And I get +1 more to attack rolls thanks to Weapon Focus.
[roll0][roll1][roll2]
[roll3][roll4][roll5]
[roll6][roll7][roll8]

[VestigeArcanist]

In a flurry of activity, the room is lit by the multiple flashes of scarlet, violet and white and the now obviously bright silver sheen come from the circular rune, with the... thing in the middle of it all.

Frederick's spell was so powerful, that the vicious ape was little more that a slab of meat when he finished it, an unpleasant, bloody sight. But Fredrick continued to assist his partners, and stunned one of the wolves attacking Siana. Siana also stunned the remaining wolf, and the annoying, but pretty harmless badger bothering her and Fredrick. Simultaneously, Janice sliced up boar that had just gored her into little fine pieces, though she almost injured herself in the process.

With all the unnatural creatures have been cut down, the ape, the wolves, the badger and the boar, William is hesitant, not knowing how to hurt the creature pouring out of the void.

Just then, a shout and a yelp is hear on the far side of the room, blocked by the tentacles, but a head of a bull comes flying over to your side, and rolls along the ground. Its horns are bloody, and its skin is covered in a slime that fits with its sickly gray-green skin.

Not a moment after, another ape pops out and lands in front of the four of you, it too is deformed as its slain predecessor. With it two more creatures are thrown out of the void, which lands unseen on the far side of the room. Worse yet, 7 more black tentacles came out of the void, slamming into the basement ceiling, causing dust shake down from above.

William Weatherson, alarmed by the presence of a new beast, points his wand at the tentacles and yells, Petrificus Totalus. And as quickly as the ape appears, its hands and legs are shut together, and fall to the floor stiff as a board.

Janice's fumble [roll0] Take 16 damage if it exceeds your AC.
[roll1] Determine how many tentacles come out.
[roll2] Determine how many creatures come out.
[roll3] William's attack roll
[roll4] William's Curses roll
[roll5] William's caster level check vs. spell resistance

[al'Lan Mandrag]

Frederick Black

"Get back!" He bellowed, struggling to decide what to do. Those creatures seemed to be appearing from the black mass, and that rune struck him as part of whatever insane ritual this man had begun.

Knowledge Dark Arts [roll0]
Knowledge Magical Creatures [roll1]

Stumped so far, can we use magical counter spelling on the ritual?

[VestigeArcanist]

Fredrick Black
Not overly familiar enough with ritualistic magic, Fredrick knows enough that they would be unable to magically counterspell the ritual, and that there best hope is either to interupt the ritual or discover the ritual which dismisses this one if it is too late to interupt it.

[Omeganaut]

Janice, seeing the creature succeeding, hopes to use its success against it. "Cut all the nearest tentacles. If we unbalance it, it will lose its leverage and may fall back where it came from." Janice continues by firing several cutting charms at the monstrosity climbing from the void. She also makes a quick glance at her means of exit, estimating how difficult it would be for her alone to escape, and how much more time it would take for her friends to get out of the building as well.

[roll0][roll1][roll2]
[roll3][roll4][roll5]
[roll6][roll7][roll8]

[al'Lan Mandrag]

Frederick Black

Seeing the logic in Janice's actions, copies her yelling: "Diffindo!"

Targetting the tentacles

Charms roll: [roll0] Attack roll: [roll1] Damage: [roll2]
Charms roll: [roll3] Attack roll: [roll4] Damage: [roll5]
Charms roll: [roll6] Attack roll: [roll7] Damage: [roll8]

Edit: 1 point of non-lethal

[Godur]

Siana take a moment to draw a deep breath, now that the wolves were down, to regain her composure. Following Janice's example she raise her wand again she make a slashing action towards the base of one of the tentacles. "Diffendo!"

"It's a good idea. Let us hope this creature doesn't have an overabundance of appendages" She call out to her companion, before slashing at the next tentacle hoping to cut it off at the base. "Diffendo!"

In the short pause between her spellcasting she tries to think back to see if she remembers anything that might help in regards to closing the void-opening.


Attack Rolls:
[roll0]
[roll1]

Charms:
[roll2]
[roll3]

Damage is succesful:
[roll4]
[roll5]

[VestigeArcanist]

The flurry of spells lights the basement up in a bright violet color, and Janice slices two of the black, writhering tentacles, Fredrick skillfully slices three of them and Siana follows by cutting down two herself, totalling 7.

The rune grows ever more bright with the spells flying.

Suddenly, the black circle, the void from which the creature is coming out of, becomes slightly larger. This would not be alarming, but the tentcles already cut has fallen into the void, seemingly silently entering oblivion. The edges then burst out with more of these slimy appendages, an additional 17, in fact, totalling 24 sprawling, multi-form, slimy black pallic symbols.

Whats more, the void is only approximately 5' feet away from Fredrick and Siana, but still a bit away from Janice and William.

Slightly paniced, Siana still has the state of mind to be contemplative. She realizes that this ritual is opening a gate connecting this world to another, and that is. If they do not know the ritual to dismiss the monster, then their best chance is destroy or interupt that which is keeping this gate open.

[Godur]

"Alright,let me rephrase that; it was a good idea. Now, however, I belive we need a new one." Siana calls out as she take a big step back from the void. Gathering her thoughts together she quickly formalise a new plan, and quickly aim her wand at the silvery design surrounding the black circle. "Defodio" she says, in an attempt to destroy as much of the floor holding the silver design as she can, only stopping if this proves to be a bad choice.


Five-foot-step backwards and then casting Defodio twice, aimed at the floor.
Charm rolls:
[roll0]
[roll1]

And in case it's needed (shouldn't, but you never know), attack rolls:
[roll2]
[roll3]

Edit: Non-lethal is up to 27.

[al'Lan Mandrag]

Frederick Black

"That symbol! It seems to be part of the ritual, and I'm not sure, but it seems to be reacting to our magic!"

Frederick stumbles back from the pit, retreating to the edge of the room.

"I think we should either try and blast it, or stop using magic and see what happens!"

Move action to edge of room.

Frederick doesn't cast any spells this turn.

[VestigeArcanist]

Siana's spell caused the rune to glow again, but it was dimmed somewhat when the charm hit the rune. The spell caused considerable damage, annilating a total of fifteen feet of the floor and rune. It is now obvious that the rune is inlaided silver, about a quarter-inch thick.

William, seeing Siana's actions, decides that it is a worth cause of action, particularly when there is a monster on the loose and a dark wizard to be captured. Just as he thought that, he sees the two creatures that jumped out of the void race around pasted him. They are a deformed and hairless cat and a wolf. They seemed to be chasing something, or perhaps the wolf is chasing the cat. Either case, they seem to be ignoring everyone else for now.

William decides that destroying the rune was more important for the moment though. He closes his eyes, and forsees how he must execute this spell. He then turns and casts at the closest section of it, with a powerful spell, Defodio! Defodio!

With his powers of divination guiding him, he successfully cuts through rock and metal, utterly destroying 25 straight feet of the rune. The tentacles shake violently, as if it can tell what is happening...


[roll0] Take result, minus 15 and divide by five. Add to all skill checks this round. Take one nonlethal damage. [+7 to skill checks]
Defodio, DC 30
[roll1] +7 = 46 Take one nonlethal
[roll2] +7 = 31 Take six nonlethal

Seven nonlethal for the round.

[Omeganaut]

Janice also fires at the runes on the floor, trying to destroy as many as possible. She casts, moving the opposite direction from Siana and Frederick. "Don't go much further, stay near the door in case we really need to run. William and I will take this side!"

Another three spells. Lets just be safe, we can afford a wasted cast on a healing spell. Casting Defodio of course
[roll0]
[roll1]
[roll2]
Lets see, one failed cast, and I'm guessing that's two non lethal each? So I am at 20 non-lethal overall I think.

[VestigeArcanist]

Following her companions, the Slytherin Janice rips up 30 feet of stone and inlaid silver surrounding the void, in hopes that it will halt the abomination's trespass onto this world.

The two remaining pseudo-natural creatures, the wolf and cat, continue there chase, the cast itself weaving between the legs of William, ending up in front of Fredrick, with the wolf close behind. With the cat so close, it is easy to see that it is chasing, an apparently normal, brown mouse.

Swiftly, the tentacles, seemingly aware of the impending destruction of the rune, grabs each Janice, William and Siana. They are picked up 10-15 feet in the air and waved around, while having their abdomens crushed with its strong grasp. Curiously, it leaves Fredrick entirely alone, though it could easily have if it tried.


Grapple checks
Janice:
Step one, No attack of opportunity
Step two, Make touch attack, [roll0], 18 defeats
Step three, opposed grapple checks, Monster, [roll1] vs Janice [roll2], damage if successful [roll3] (lethal)

Siana:
Step one, No attack of opportunity
Step two, Make touch attack, [roll4], 19 defeats
Step three, opposed grapple checks, Monster, [roll5] vs Siana [roll6], damage if successful [roll7] (lethal)

William:
Step one, No attack of opportunity
Step two, Make touch attack, [roll8], 20 defeats
Step three, opposed grapple checks, Monster, [roll9] vs William [roll10], damage if successful [roll11] (lethal)

[al'Lan Mandrag]

Frederick Black

As the tentacles descend on his allies he can only watch as they are lifted into the air, so his plan to find out more hadn't worked and they were in more danger than before. Luckily, William had shown them the way.

He raised his wand once more, spinning and flicking it as fast as he could, and sending out three rays of silver light to dismantle the rune in the centre.

Defodio.

Charms checks:
[roll0]
[roll1]
[roll2]

So three cast, but only just, so 16 non lethal? (6,4,6)

Puts me on 34 non-lethal.
50 real HP left

[Godur]

Siana let out a pained grunt as the tentacle grab her, struggling against it's grip as she's being waved back and forth, and she hear herself gasping for air as her lungs are squeezed.

The rapid movement of the tentacle would make it hard to aim for, so instead she concentrates on another spot in the room, focusing her will into making to appear there instead.


Apparating to the lower left corner of the room, DC 20:
[roll0]

[VestigeArcanist]

With his allies in the air, Fredrick focuses on ending the threat of the creature by destroying the rune. With the incantation and the burst of light, he destroys another 25 feet of floor.

Held tight, Siana barely manages to turn in place to Apparate. However, though she knows that her form was proper, she fails to transport herself. She feels a taste of copper in her mouth, a tell-tale sign that the location has been warded from outgoing and incoming Apparations, much like Hogwarts and many private residences.

[Godur]

Siana curses in her mind; she should have known the basement would be warded. She renew her struggles against the tentacle's grip, raising her wand to slash towards its base. "Diffendo" She says, focusing on severing the appendage holding her.


I believe I still have a standard action left.
Concentration check:
[roll0]
Attack roll:
[roll1]
Charm, target DC is 20
[roll2]
Damage
[roll3]

Non-lethal is at 31

[VestigeArcanist]

A burst of violet light erupts from Siana's wand, and successfully severs the tentacle whipping her around. She lands on the same side of Fredrick, though she has been knocked prone.

Seeing the failed Apparation of Siana, both Janice and William focus on severing the appendages manhandling them. Two bursts of violet light is seen cutting the tentacles, and each of the Aurors are free. Janice lands on the left side of the room, and quickly stands up to resume the fight. William, though, was being thrown around by the monster considerably, and landed on the far side of the room. Neither Janice nor William see any sign of John Lowry.

Meanwhile the cat contiunes chasing the mouse, which has slipped in between the bookshelf and the wall. The wolf too, it seems, is chasing after the apparently normal mouse, and is scratching and barking at the bookshelf.

The remaining 21 tentacles, again, slam downwards and seem to be pushing down on the ground, trying to lift itself up out of the void.


Where Siana lands [roll0]

Janice
Attack 1 [roll1], Charms DC 20 [roll2]
If unsuccessful...
Attack 2 [roll3], Charms DC 20 [roll4]
Attack 3 [roll5], Charms DC 20 [roll6]
Where she lands [roll7]

William
Attack 1 [roll8], Charms DC 20 [roll9]
If unsuccessful...
Attack 2 [roll10], Charms DC 20 [roll11]
Where he lands [roll12]


Edit, Mistook William's charm Modifier for Janice's. He still freed himself, however.

Janice took 3 nonlethal damage
William took 4 nonlethal damage

[Omeganaut]

Janice proceeds to cast another swift succession of spells at the rune still left on the floor, hoping to destroy more of the portal letting this demon monstrosity (demonstrosity?) into the house.

[roll0]
[roll1]
[roll2]

[Godur]

Siana push herself back on her feet with a small grunt; she was beginning to feel the weight of her spellcasting, and she knew that she would have to do something about that if this continued for much longer.

Raising her wand she once again aim at the remaining silver rune. "Defodio"


Charms roll:
[roll0]

Non-lethal is now at 37

[VestigeArcanist]

Due to the quick wandwork of Janice and Siana, the rune is nigh destroyed, save of a remaining 5-foot square in the upper corner of the room.

*Crack*

The sound of the void closing, a sharp piercing noise accompanies the closing of the presumed gate into another world. The remaining appendages are severed, and flop around the ground for a few moments, as a nervous reflex, just like the dismembered legs of a daddy long-legs, before stopping. It may be the disappearance of the tentacles blocking the torches, or the passing of danger, or perhaps the void was actually spreading darkness, but the room seems to be a bit brighter now.

This may be too soon to say, of course. Everyone has a more or less clear view of the room now. Much of the center is torn up due to repeated casting s of Defodio, save for the remaining 5 foot section of the rune, and the 15 by 15 section where the void was. That bit of floor largely untouched, exception being where the rune was, there is no silver, just deep burn marks were the silver was inlained. The pattern of the rune is still apparent, as it seems that it was carved into the floor, and then the silver poured into it.

The most disturbing thing is the absence of their target, John Lowry. He was seen when the Auror’s entered, and he surely did not leave the room by way of the door they were guarding. There are no immediately apparent doors or windows.

There is still the unconscious apprentice in the corner, the mutant cat and wolf digging and scratching at the bookcase at the mouse, and several creatures rendering unconscious or disabled laying about the floor.



Combat for all intents and purposes, has ended. We are out of initiative, and you may act as you please.

[al'Lan Mandrag]

Frederick Black

Frederick turns and realising, the danger is still not quite over fires a volley of stunning spells towards the mutant creatures, still disgusted with this carnage and hoping to avoid further killing.
"Stupefy!"

Curses roll: [roll0]
Attack roll: [roll1]
Curses roll :[roll2]
Attack roll: [roll3]
Curses roll :[roll4]
Attack roll: [roll5]

[VestigeArcanist]

Three bursts of red light fly out of Fredricks wand, with the first and the third hitting the two remaining creatures. They drop down, stunned and unconscious.

[Godur]

Siana take a few deep breaths to regain her composure from after the combat, raising her wand to aim it at herself. "Episkey" She says, in an attempt to rejuvenate herself while she ponder the target's location.

She walks quickly past the fallen animals and tentacles and begin looking through the documents on the bookshelves and desks, begining to look through them for anything interesting or worthwhile as evidence, and casting another spell as she whispers. "Homenum Revelio"


Episkey, target DC is 15.
[roll0]

Healing non-lethal if succesful [roll1]

Homenum Revelio, target DC is 20 to detect if John is in the room still, and 30 to see him if invisible.
[roll2]

[VestigeArcanist]

Looking through the bookshelves and the desks, Siana finds various books of archaic diagrams and drawings, as well as many handwritten notes. Mixed in with these is a vast many books, ranging from diaries and notes of obscure wizards to a collection of fairy tales meant for children. All of these things, if not directly pertinent to your investigation, would be of interest to the Unspeakables at the Department.

One particular book stands out. It is leather bound and black, has clasp on it, and is embroidered. As you were being careful (hopefully) handling all these books, you have taken care not to open and read them without determining if they were magical or not. This one definitely shows signs of known magic.

With your spell casted, Siana detects that five humans (and/or demi-humans) are in range of the spell. This does not include Siana, of course.

[Omeganaut]

Janice takes a deep breath, the glow of magic slowly fading from her eyes. Now that the danger has passed, she immediately begins taking stock of the new situation. The apprentice must be brought in, and the mutant animals as well for observation. She will definitely be making a Pensieve memory of the pattern of the floor runes as well. All that can wait, as there may be another surprise yet around the corner. So she begins to heal herself of the bruises and cuts she got from those extra-dimensional beings and then asks if anyone else needs help.

Episkey for lethal, Vulnera Sanenteur for non-lethal.
[roll0][roll1]
Healing is 10 lethal and 11 non-lethal

[Godur]

Siana wrapped the black book with some cloth quickly before placing it in her packs; it was worth taking extra care of she thought. Turning to her comrades she then speaks. "If I'm not mistaken then our friend Mr. Lowry is still here. Hiding behind the cages, mayhap?"

With that Siana set off to search the room for John Lowry, with her wand held at the ready, as she tries to pin-point John Lowry with the help of her magic.


Using her result for Homenum Revelio to help, if at all possible.
Search check: [roll0]
Spot check: [roll1]

[al'Lan Mandrag]

Frederick Black

Seeing everyone else restoring their strength Frederick draws his wand and mutters a couple of charms to help restore him.

Episkey- Take 10 (+22) result 32.
Non-lethal healed: [roll0]

Episkey- Take 10 (+22) result 32.
Lethal healed: [roll1]

Then, feeling somewhat refreshed turns and starts helping the others search.

Search Check: [roll2]

He talked himself through his own thought process, not to help the others, but it was his way of dealing with a complex problem- something he'd never been as adept as others at.
"So it is impossible to apparate from here, Siana proved that, and without breaking through the wall he coulnd't have left. You can still sense him so he must be invisible, or have transfigured himself, a dangerous notion, but this ritual hardly seemed safe...."

[VestigeArcanist]

Diligent searching has yielded nothing. Of course if John Lowry is able to evade detection and still capable of moving, this is not surprising. No secret doors or drawers are found, just the collection of books, diagrams and charts. Nothing is heard save for the squeaking and scampering of a mouse. The smell is of ozone, wet mold, stale and unventilated air mixed with the smell of old parchment, a smell sweet to those great and powerful wizards. And of course, the blood and bile from the severed, beaten, stunned and sliced tentacles and mutants. But that is just plain unpleasant.

Despite the difficulties faced, due to her spell, Siana senses the unaccounted for person on the lower right side of the room, when facing the room inwards from the door. Her spell can get no more specific than that.

[Godur]

Siana move to right infront of the door and turns to face the general direction of where she sensed the presence, raising her wand slowly. "Finite Incantatem" She says quielt, focusing her magic to attempt to unravel whatever magic that may be hiding Lowry -- likely a Disillusionment charm, she thought.


Taking ten on Finite casting, target DC is 35 for Invisibility:
10+28=38.

First round if successful: [roll0]

[VestigeArcanist]

Siana senses no change. She feels the magic of the room, most likely the Permanent Anti-appariation charm, and the innate magics of the creatures. Finite cannot undo these things. No such luck with Lowry. Though she was sure that he was in that area of the room, she does not feel any spell casted by him.

OOC note: I am treating that use of Finte as an dispel magic, used as area dispel. It works on a 20-foot radius.

[Godur]

Siana set off towards the area where she had felt the presumed presence of Mr.Lowry, keeping her wandheld forward and ready. Her incantatem spell hadn't yielded results, perhaps due to missing, but then she had cast it under the assmuption that he was invisible.

"Come out, come out, wherever you are, Mr.Lowry" She speaks in a half-singing tone, mocking the hiding Void Magician, as she search the lower right side of the room, thinking that he might be the squeking mouse. "Perhaps you are not sufficently motivated" she adds and flick her wand in the direction of the sliced up boar; intending to transfigure it to an ordinary viper to chase the mouse.


Search again:
[roll0]
Homenum Revelio should still be active, shouldn't it? If so then Siana will use that as help.
Taking ten on transfiguration: 10+17=27
DC is 25-2-5+5=23 for a tiny viper, I figured that a dead boar count as inanimate now.

Also, I just realised that I've forgotten to add my synergy bonus to spellcasting previously. So all my charms rolls should have been +21 and not +19. :smallredface:

[VestigeArcanist]

The newly created viper slithers across the ground to the book shelves. Just as he approaches it, the mouse darts out. The snake deftly catches it in its fangs. The mouse struggles, but the snake has it captured. You can see the back feet still trying to run as it is being swallowed whole. You then see a man on his hands and knees in front of you, covered in a small amount of blood and bits of snake. He is looking straight at the ground, breathing a bit heavy.


A large number of die rolls to determine the outcome of this 'encounter'.

Viper Rolls
[roll0]
[roll1]
[roll2]
[roll3]
[roll4]
[roll5]
[roll6]
[roll7]
[roll8]
[roll9]

Attack Bonus +5
Grapple Bonus -11
AC 17

Mouse Rolls
[roll10]
[roll11]
[roll12]
[roll13]
[roll14]
[roll15]
[roll16]
[roll17]
[roll18]
[roll19]

Attack Bonus +3
Grapple Bonus -21
AC 19

[al'Lan Mandrag]

Frederick Black

As soon as he sees the man emerge he inwardly curses. How could I not have thought he was an Animagi? Though it's rare, if I were Lowry I'd probably learn it...

Without waiting for more than that short glimpse Frederick sweeps his wand round and shouts, "Stupefy!" sending two bolts of red light towards the man, careful not to over do it and damage their captive.

Curses roll: [roll0]
Attack roll: [roll1]
Curses roll: [roll2]
Attack roll: [roll3]

[VestigeArcanist]

John Lowrys vomits right before he is hit by the red light. His arms give way to his body. Flipping him over will reveal that he is quite pale, and possibly in need of a healer's attention.

Something I should have rolled before...
[roll0]

Oh dear.

I will allow a knowledge roll (magical creatures), or knowledge (dark arts) to discover what this roll was for.

[Godur]

Siana approaches the now unconscious Void Magician, avoiding to step in the vomit and blood ont he way, and poke his head with the tip of her shoe briefly "Tsk tsk. Quite the struggle you had there, Mr.Lowry." She says, obviously more to herself than the unconscious man.

She then kneels down to quickly rummage through his pockets, taking his wand and any other magical equipment he might have on his person.


Knowledge Dark Arts: [roll0]
I'm guessing it's the poison (or venom if you're being nitpicky) damage from the snake.

[VestigeArcanist]

Closer examination shows that John had been injured due to the creatures and the tentecles.

In his pockets you there is not much. A Moke-skin wallet, which shrinks the moment that you approch it. It will be difficult to check inside the wallet without the complience of Lowry. You also find his wand, eleven inches willow and unicorn hair. You find a letter written addressed to John, from his mother, dated the day before. Also is a slightly older letter from Hogwarts, informing him of the result of his NEWT exams. Last, but not least, is a goblin-made chain gauntlet, for the left hand. It may be valuable or useful.

It is poison from the snake.
Fort save DC 10
Initial and secondary damage of 1d6 Con.
It has been 3 rounds since being bitten.

[al'Lan Mandrag]

Knowledge DarkArts: [roll0]
Knowledge Magical Creatures: [roll1]

Frederick Black

He wracked his brains for what might be afflicting Lowry and for an appropriate spell to thwart it. They'd need to bring him alive to find out what he'd done.
Frederick knew no way of healing poison, so he did the only thing he could think of. Pointing his wand at the dying man he muttered: "Accio poison" hoping against hope that he could draw out the poison before it did more damage.

To be filled in with the appropriate spell if he recognises what's happening. [roll2] +25 = 45.

[VestigeArcanist]

John Lowry, helpless and unconscious, is wracked by tremors. Blood comes up out from his wounds, along with a small amount of black liquid, presumably from the snake. John seems weaker from the spell, perhaps due to internal damage.

Con Damage caused to Accio [roll0]
Fort save DC bonus on secondary roll [roll1]
Reduction of Con Damage on secondary damage roll [roll2]

He has lost -4 Con so far. Plus his other injuries.

[al'Lan Mandrag]

Frederick Black

Well it seemed to have helped somewhat, at least he shouldn't be getting weaker now. "We need to heal him, quickly, help me." he asks the other aurors.

Vulnera Sanentur.
[roll0]
[roll1]

[Godur]

Siana places the gauntlet and wand in her pack, keeping the letter in her hands for now. "Let's look at Mr.Lowry's correspondence" She says to herself, opening the letter to read it.

She then raise her eyebrow as a reaction to Frederick's action. "I applaud your technique. I'm sure he felt that even when unconscious" She says with a hint of amusement.

[al'Lan Mandrag]

Frederick Black

He was slightly baffled by Siana's callous disregard for saving the man. He was trying to stop this man dying and she cared about his letter. He gave her an earnest look reflecting all this and turned back to the man, hoping he would survive, but knowing his limited ability at healing would avail him little.

"We should get him away from here. You can stay if you want, but this man needs more care than we can provide."

Fred stands and tries to carefully lift the man, hoping not to jar him and carries him towards the room's exit so that he can apparate away to St Mungo's.

Take 10 (with +11 for bonus) to apparate up to 10 miles (He will do it in bursts if necessary to get there).

[Godur]

"Oh very well. I'll help if it means so much to you" Siana says and put the letters in her pack, before moving to assist Fredrick in carrying Lowry out of the room.

"Might as well come along too. We can send someone to pick up the evidence later." She adds before she too attempt to apparate to St.Mungos.


Taking ten for apparation: 10+16=26. Also doing it in hops if needed.

[VestigeArcanist]

Janice decides to remain behind to keep an eye on the scene.

William Weatherson, also concerned for the prisoner, helps carry him, so not to leave Fredrick dragging the dead weight. Before apparating, he points his wand. Episkey!

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

It takes several bursts to get there, but William, Siana, John and William arrive at St Mungo's special ward set aside for Aurors. It is common for those who are injured in the course of an Auror's job to also be taken here in a pinch.

A trio of healers robed in white are immediatly upon you. What happen and what is your call sign? the lead healer asks. The other two are carrying the obviously unconscious and injured John Lowry away to a bed.

William remembers that he was given a call sign when he was first induced as an Auror. Delphi he answers, after the Ancient Oracle their.


--------------------------
The first letter Siana reads is from John's mother. In it, she complains to John that he never sees her any more, that she is constantly ill, that Victoria Abbott's son is very successful working in the Department of Experimental Charms while her own son is practically a squib who has to stock books to get by, that the money he sends her is pitiful and is proof that he doesn't really love her and that he has always been a disappointment to her and thank goodness that his father is not around to see how he neglects his own mother.

The second letter is dated to four years ago, from Hogwarts. In it is informs John of his NEWT exams. He only passed about half of them, and most only just barely with an Acceptable. Interestingly, he recieved O's on all of the written parts of the exams, but did dreadful on the practical portion. Astronomy and History of Magic he recieved O's in, probably because there is no practical portion. It also reveals that he was sorted into Ravenclaw.


William: Charms take ten for 23. [roll0]
Concentration check take ten for 20
John Lowry: Fort save [roll1]
Consitution Damage [roll2]

[al'Lan Mandrag]

Frederick Black

He was glad that his new companion wasn't as heartless as that comment had seemed, and when she pitched in to help carry the body he felt warmth toward her again: theirs was a hard job, and not trusting each other had caused too many deaths in the past.

"What do they say?" He asked Siana, noting her diligent scrutiny.

[Godur]

Siana turn her head towards Frederick; so the letters were interesting afterall. She opened her bag and produced the letter with one hand and showed them to her fellow auror "It would seem that dear old Mrs.Lowry and her son have a number of disagreements regarding Mr. Lowry's educational achievements or, rather, lack thereof."

"In our second letter it is noted that, during his NEWTs, Mr.Lowry displayed a talent of falling short in all matters practical." Siana adds with a hint of sceptisism in her voice; It seemed a bit off judging by what she had seen in the last hour. "Which leaves us in a bit of a pickle to fathom our dear friend's hidden talents as a closeted aficionado of cheeses and fur, and the rather peculiar rearrangement of his basement floor. Wouldn't you agree?"

[al'Lan Mandrag]

Frederick Black

He was stumped. Why would any person intentionally fail: he had been taught all about putting in hard work, but this man had been, was still a ravenclaw and they certainly never prioritised anything above academia.

"So what, he intetionally failed? He wasn't capable but suddenly had an epiphany after leaving school, or did he find something else."

Knowledge, Dark Arts: [roll0]
To find a spell or item that increases a wizards power (though in this case there is almost certainly something dark about it).

[Godur]

"Could be that he intentionally failed, or perhaps he was distracted... Or he simply wasn't good enough to pass the practical test. Whatever the case it might be worth further investigation." Siana says and gesture in the general direction of St.Mungos floo network area. "I suggest that we make a visit to the Wizarding Examniations Authority in the Departmend of Magical Education. Reviewing his OWL results may shed some light on this"

[al'Lan Mandrag]

Frederick

"Sounds sensible, but we should probably leave someone behind to watch him, William?"

"Also, did you find anything else in his possessions? Some clue as to his intent? That ritual must certainly have had some purpose beyond the obvious."

[Godur]

"William will be able to handle things here I believe." Siena says, giving Frederick a short nod as she begin walking towards the floo gates. "I did find a piece of goblin craftmanship -- a guantlet -- and I intend to write a letter to Gringotts to request having it, and its owner, identified. Afterall, if anyone know its purpose it's them. I also found a bit of light reading in Mr.Lowry's bookshelf, and if I'm not mistaken its enchanted. Should be worth looking at once there's time for proper safety measures"

[al'Lan Mandrag]

Frederick

Yes ma'am Fred thought noting how quickly Siana took command. But, he to admit, her suggestions were good ones, and she knew what she was doing, he fell into step with her, heading towards the floo gates interested to know where this mystery would lead.

[Omeganaut]

Janice secretly smiled as Siana took charge. 'While she is busy doing the squib work, I will send in my report first, take the important credit, and get respect from the department chief. She has a lot to learn to get power!" Janice begins writing the report in her head, picking up the information as it comes to light. As Siana proposes to find his OWL results, Janice responds. "That sounds great. While you three are searching that out, I will go find out about Mrs. Lowry and see if we can get any news from there on whom our dear dimensionalist might have acquired his ritual from."

Janice proceeds to go to her desk and write out her report on the incident, focusing on her heroism and leadership under fire while subtly downplaying the contributions of the others. When the report is submitted properly, she makes sure to seek out the general information on Mrs. Lowry, just trying to find her address and any previous run-ins with the law.

[Godur]

As soon as they arrived to the ministry building Siana set out towards the Department of Magical Education, and more specifically the Wizarding Examniations Authority.

Once she arrives she take a look around, moving swiftly to approach an inquiry desk or similar, flashing a smile at whomever is sitting behind it at the moment. "Goodday. We..." She begins, gesturing to Frederick behind her briefly before turning back to the desk. "Are from the Auror office, and we find ourselves in a bit of a pinch. There is a record here that we'd like to examine, to fill in the blanks of our investigation, and I was hoping you might be able to help us with that ."

[VestigeArcanist]

William Weatherson remains behind at St. Mungo's.

After Janice submits her report, she accesses the genealogy and legal records of the Wizengamot Administrative office. Victoria Lowry gave birth to John 22 years ago. He is an only child, a pureblood, like most people at the time. John’s father died when he was 10 years old. Neither side of the family is particularly wealthy or influential. Mrs. Lowry does not have a criminal record, nor does John.

________________________
The young-ish witch-clerk at the Wizarding Examniations Authority looks unnaturally exicted about helping.

"Oh absolutely, I will help you in any way I possibly can! It will be absolutely facinating to help with an investigation. I wanted to be an Auror once, but I get squemish with blood, Eek! My name is Elnora Lambe, by the way. What do you need to know. And what is your call sign, by the way? Protocols, you know." She rolls her eyes, and takes a breath for the first time that she started speaking.

_________________________
Fredrick's two-way mirror started speaking to him. It is the familar voice of Craig Roark, the post man at coordination center of the Department of Magical Law Enforcement. Come in Auror Black. This is Office Roark. You and your team missed your last check in. Craig Roark is a pleasant fellow, not talented magically in anyway, and certainly not Auror material. But he coordinated calls well enough, though he cut corners around protocol. COLOR="Indigo"]I say again, Come in Auror Bla---[/COLOR]

Gruff shouting...I many times must I tell you Rorak, only refer to Aurors by their call sign! It is the your boss, the Auror Laison to the Department of Mysteries, Daniel Colman. He sounds pissed.Answer Auror! I know you are alive, dammit, Delphi told me as much already. He at least had the decency to check in after abandoning the bloodly scene!

[al'Lan Mandrag]

Frederick Black

In all the excitement over Lowry's magic and the clues left behind, they'd made a basic mistake.
Frederick, had already moved away from Siana and Elnora as the mirror awoke, so he hoped his boss's rebuke had remained private.

"Sir, it's all right, I'm fine, I'm here, Shadow calling in. If Delphi has made his report then that's all we know for sure right now, but we're followin up some leads until Lowry is conscious again, then we'll question him and see what's what. I promise I'll have a full report for you by tomorrow's end."

[VestigeArcanist]

You will place it, personally, in my hand by 5:00 pm tonight, thank you very much. And that will go for the rest of you low-life's if you don't want me to transfigure you a new one.

Chief Coleman takes a breath, and wipes his forehead and bulging veins with a Handkerchief. Patrolmen have just been dispatched to the scene with a squad of Hit Wizards as an extra precaution. I presume that there is nothing unusual or dangerous going on there, or else you wouldn't have abandoned the site and risk someone else finding something the Unspeakables do not want to be found. He takes breath of relief. The Unspeakables are not the easiest people to deal with

In the world of Magical Law Enforcement, Aurors would be similar to Detectives, though they are much more accustomed to violence, as effectively everyone is armed with the equivalent of an arsenal of weapons, provided that they are skillful with their wand. The Magical Law Enforcement Patrol is essentially the ordinary police.

Hit Wizards on the other hand, would be the Magical World's SWAT team. Hit Wizards is a highly coordinated tactical team who are called in for hostage situations, Counter-Terrorism and other dangerous and high priority criminals. Unlike the Auror’s, who are largely investigative, the Hit Wizards receive paramilitary training, are decked out with equipment and magical potions that normal wizards (and Aurors) do not have the strength or stomach to bear, and are traditionally in fierce competition with the Aurors.

Hearing that they are called in would be distasteful for an Auror to hear, though openly showing it would not be in the spirit of inter-agency cooperation.

[al'Lan Mandrag]

Frederick Black

"I see," Frederick replies, annoyed that their haste would make them look foolish, and that the Hit-wizards would be the ones to pick up the pieces. "No it's all dealt with, we obviously detained the subject and believe we've picked up all the pertinent information that could be gleaned from the scene, though I'd advise that that lot keep their hands off just in case: we may want a thorough examination later on."

He glanced over at Siana, hoping that she would make some headway here, otherwise it looked like there was going to be a serious amount of angry-Chief-Auror to deal with.

[Godur]

"Of course, Elnora. My call sign is Lilith" Siana says to the witch-clerk with a smile. "I'm hoping to see the OWL records of one John Lowry. If I've done my homework correctly I belive he should have attended Hogwarts between 1837 and 1844."

She glances briefly in the direction of Frederick. She didn't hear what the discussion was about, but it certainly sounded like there were some angry people on the other side of the mirror. Cursing internally she then turn back to the clerk, smiling still to keep up appearances.

[Omeganaut]

Janice begins to check through the facts in her head, and quickly decides Mrs. Lowry is not going to be helpful in this investigation, as obviously her son wanted her out of his life, and probably hid his association with whomever gave him the plans from her. Instead, it sounds like it would be better to investigate John's workplace and known associates. So, Janice decides to rejoin the others at the WEA (Janice can't believe that this irritating acronym notion will ever stay around) and see if she can't find any more information, especially from a careful reading of the documents Siana gathered.

Since Siana didn't say that John stocked books IC, I figure Janice doesn't know, otherwise she would start searching out his place of employment.

[VestigeArcanist]

Elnora Lambe

Okay let’s see here. She gets up, flicks her wand and several drawers open up. It seems that this mousey, curly haired clerk is versed in nonverbal spells. A folder flies out and she catches it. She quickly goes to her ledger and writes down Auror--Lilith, Jan 9, 1848. 1435 Hours, OWLs of John Lowry, 1838-1845. Please make your mark here, Auror Lilith. Elnora says in a chipper voice. Hm, it looks like Mr. Lowry here pasted all his OWL's, with respectable grades. O's in History of Magic, Ancient Runes, Arithmancy and Astronomy. Oh, it looks he received Poor and Dreadfuls in the practical portions in Care for Magical Creatures, Charms, Battle Magic, Herbology and Potions. I suppose he was a nervous test-taker huh? She hands you the file.

[Godur]

"That is some good non-verbal wandwork" Siana compliment the clerk as she place her mark where indicated. "Thank you, Elnora. I'll bring these back as soon as possible." She says with a smile, before taking the file and moving to talk to Frederick and Janice, looking over the results herself on the way.

"Let's see now. It seems that these results are awfully consistent with Mr.Lowry's NEWTs." She says to her companions, showing them the file.


I'm just assuming that we are allowed to take the files so long as we bring them back withing this and that many hours. 12 or so. Correct me if I'm wrong.

[al'Lan Mandrag]

Frederick Black

He listens earnestly to Siana's report, but then asks: "So where does that leave us? It seems during his entire magical training he was weak at all practical aspects, not just wandwork and magic, but even in care of magical creatures, so he was weak in physical practical assessments, but why? And if he was so incompetent, or magically weak, or whatever we decide the reason is for his low grades, how did he manage what he did in the cellar?"

Frederick is utterly perplexed: he'd made some logical steps, but he felt like they needed more to go on before forming a conclusion.

"We should talk to Mr Lowry's mother, and investigate the book and the gauntlet, but which first? Also, we should get the healers at St Mungo's to investigate any abnormalities, any illnesses or what have you that might contribute to this result."

[Godur]

"Perhaps Mr.Lowry's lack of practical cunning is why he seemed to have lost control of his experiments in the first place?" Siana suggests simply, not giving that possibility a second thought before speaking again. "The alternative is of course that he's seen drastic improvement in the last four years."

She pauses to think for a moment. Mr.Lowry didn't seem like a wealthy man, nor did goblin craftmanship come cheaply. "The gauntlet is curious I think. I doubt Mr.Lowry could afford it on his own, so the question then is if he stole it from or if he has a wealthy patron. Once we know where it's from it might be worth questioning Mrs.Lowry regarding his personal life, she might know -something- about his friends, howevr unlikely." Siana pauses again and gesture to the mirror in Frederick's hand. "How much time do we have?"

[al'Lan Mandrag]

Frederick Black

"Report has to be in at 5pm, 'sharp'." He replies, rolling his eyes almost imperceptibly.

[Godur]

"That's not an awful lot of time, is it? Best not stand aorund too long" Siana says and produces the gauntlet from her satchel and hand it over to Frederick. "Here you are. I suggest that we take on separate tasks, to cover them all quickly. Would you be a dear and take that to the goblin liason office while I examine the book?"

[al'Lan Mandrag]

Frederick Black

He took the gauntlet with a small amount of distaste: he hated the sneering demeanour of the goblins, especially when it came to what they saw as stolen property.
"Fine with me, as long as you're confident to deal with the work?"

He turns his back on Siana and stepping away takes out his mirror, and contacting the switchboard called in: "Shadow here, heading on alone to Goblin liaison office to investigate a goblin-made gauntlet acquired at Lowry's place."

[VestigeArcanist]

Read you Shadow. Better make it quick though. Your boss looks like he is about to blow. Something about "leaving a dangerous scene", and "not mentioning any tentencles". What did you guys find there, a squid. You hear a voice on the other side of the mirror.

Who are you talking to?
Uh, Auror Shadow.
Oblivate!

A moment passes and you see Cheif Laison Auror Coleman face again.

Auror Shadow, I confirm your pending location at the Goblin Liason Office. You are to proceed to the Auror Liason HQ in the Department of Mysteries afterwards, as shall Napoleon, Lilith and Delphi. I will see you all within one hour. End.

[al'Lan Mandrag]

Fredercik Black

"We've got an hour, and the boss is in no kind of mood to wait. See you at base."

With that Fred turns and heads towards the Goblin Liaison office as quickly as possible, apparating if able.

[Godur]

Siana sighs as she quickly make her way to her office. Had he changed it to one hour? A full report and getting any work done in that time was going to be, well, difficult.

Once she arrive she immediately set to work, analysing the book she found, setting up protective measures and trying to disable any defensive magic on it.
Once she's confident it's safe enough she then opens the book to scan through it quickly, noting how much time she had left.


To set up defenses: (Curses and Counter-curses)
Taking ten for 38
To counter any defenses on the book: (Curses and Counter-curses)
[roll0]
For reading the book and looking for anything relevant: Knowledge(Dark Arts)
[roll1]

[VestigeArcanist]

Fredrick Black swiftly struts to the Goblin Liaison Office. After checking in with the receptionist, he is met by Theodore Harbor. A stout man with blue eyes and blond hair, he was once a famed Quiddich player and Hit Wizard. He now is a British delegate to the International Confederation of Wizards and the Head of the Goblin Liaison office, a prestigious position. He is very likable and experienced in handling and smoothing things over with Goblin-kind.

You are ushered into a small conference room. It is a bit dark and danky, but the floor is carpeted, and the chairs are lavish, as is the style of Wizards. In the room are three goblins. They seemed to be whispering in Gobbledegook until they saw you. They fall silent. Theodore Harbor speaks.

Auror Black, I will be here to act as your consol in this meeting today. This is Eargit, representative of Gringotts bank; motioning to the goblin on your left. Brogot, here is the representative of the United Goblin Guilds (U.G.G. or ugg). He motions to the goblin on your right. Last but not least is the Head Goblin Liaison to Wizard-kind is Ragnok. He motions to the impatient looking goblin in the center. Gentle-goblins, to you I present Auror Black. He is in need of your collective expertise. He has some questions to ask in order to tie up the loose ends of an investigation, though I assure you, and your people, that no one of your kin is a suspect in the case. Fredrick, your questions?

_________________________________
Siana goes to her office in the Department of Mysteries. As she walks, each door opens for her, as if it knows where she is going. She is spotted by a few Unspeakables, but avoids them lest she gets dragged into a mago-babble heavy conversation for the next hour. They are not the most socially equipped people she has met.

She arrives in her office, which quite large due to the wonderful magic of space expansion. It is decorated according to her preference. She places the book on her desk and analyzes it. After careful study she successfully percieves and unravels the protective charms on it. With one last point of her wand, the clasp breaks off. She looks at the time and sees twenty minutes has passed approximately 40 minutues or so until her meeting with the Cheif.

Siana opens the book. The room disappears. Siana is hovering in black, as if in space. Total weightlessness. As she looks around she sees only herself and the book in front of her, illuminated by no apparent source. Then, a bright golden light shoots out of the book, like a meteor or a shooting star. It flies past you and, after an unknown distance, explodes in the black. It forms a constellation containing many, many stars. This constellation is not immediatly familiar to you, if it indeed is a real constellation. (You may take a Knowledge: Astronomy check if you wish). Two more lights shoot out and two more constellations are formed, though they are different from the first one.

It isn't until this time does Siana gets her bearings on this situation. Calm under the most stressful of situations, she ponders. Should she try to escape, destroy the book, or see where this will lead me? Or perhaps another course of action is needed?

[al'Lan Mandrag]

Frederick Black

Frederick nods to the wizard and then turns to the goblins. he keeps the gauntlet inside his bag for the meanwhile, knowing that he would lose their attention immediately once it was in plain view.

"Friends," he began "Today we discovered a wizard performing some sort of dark magic, and despite not being of any great means, he possessed a Goblin-wrought item. I've come here today to ask you to identify this item for me and tell of any magical properties that it is imbued with."

HE then takes out the gauntlet and places it before them.

[Godur]

Siana spun around to watch the constellations. "What have we here...?" She says to herself, wondering how exactly this book worked, was it so vast a source of knowledge that you hadt o infuse this magic into it? Or was it a form of defense she hadn't anticipated? Whatever the case the Unspeakables would no doubt love to get their hands on it.

How could she get closer to the constellations, she wondered, doubting that she could simply walk up to them. Still, she tried, moving slowly towards the first one, while also concentrating; imagining herself to move over there.

[VestigeArcanist]

Brogot, the U.G.G. Representative receives the gauntlet. Examining it: It appears to be 17th century goblin-wrought steel. The size and shape suggest it was made for the hand of a wizard, goblins, centaurs and other beings would find the fitting uncomfortable, though functional. It is obvious that it came from battle quality armor.

He pauses; realizes that the wizard's do not understand the term and continues…

It means that in addition to the ordinary properties of goblin metal, Imperturbable to rust, dirt, grim, blood… and its property of the external impregnation of foreign substances, battle quality means that certain spells and magical effects to bounce off of it with nothing more than a very loud clank… He pauses. It’s very rare to see nowadays. From what I understand it is difficult for wizards to use and still use their wands. And since speed is generally preferred to defense, few nowadays take their time to learn how to wear it. Though I do hear murmurings of a change in policy in the ministry...

Brogot looks knowingly at Theodore Harbor, who coughs loudly. Harbor speaks himself. Back to Auror Black’s question at hand, where did it come from?

This particular gauntlet came from a smith called Gornuk. Unlike like most goblin made items, battle armor is sold for a much higher initial price, since there is not an expectation of return after death. He lows glowingly at Harbor. –as those decease in combat are oft stripped of it due to its usefulness and value. However, Gornuk was murdered during the rebellion of 1671 for ‘providing contraband to insurrectionists’ and had his place burned to the ground with his family trapped inside. It is a well know tale told by my people, though it is a common tale. Gornuk looks furious at you and Harbor, and speaks through gritted teeth, as if he blames you for this smith’s demise.

__________________________

When Siana thinks to move closer to the constellation, she moves slightly and suddenly stops. With a little effort and experimentation, she is able to focus and move whichever way she wishes. As she approaches the constellation, more lights shoot out of the book and explode into the blackness. She never seems to get closer to the stars, but they do appear brighter. She sees little gold lines connecting the stars of the constellations, and then sees that some of the constellations are connected themselves, forming a pattern.

Of course as she moves towards some constellations, she loses sight of others, and she cannot see the faint gold lines of the others. It is so intricate, the stars, the gold on the canvass of empty black, Siana thinks to herself that she does not want to leave this place, ever.

Coming to her senses, she determines her next course of action.

[al'Lan Mandrag]

Frederick Black

"Thank you for your help." Fred replies, slightly stiffly, aggravated by the goblin's tone. "Could you tell me who this was sold to? Which family? If it was so rare, perhaps records or legends of it exist?"

[Godur]

Siana focuses on the constellations and the patterns they form. They were beautiful in a sense, she thinks to herself as she continue to watch them with keen interest.

She make an attempt to study the patterns, to make sense of them, there must be knowledge hidden here. Perhaps the book itself held answers? Considering that thought for a moment she shen go back to peer in the book, see if there was anything useful on the pages.

[VestigeArcanist]

At the book Siana sees a bright gold, almost too bright to look at directly. She sees no writing at this point. More bursts of light explode onto the black. Siana thinks of the patterns that she just saw, and thought that it is similar to the pattern on the floor in the basement, as well as those written in Lowry’s various notes and charts. She sees that she is surrounded by the constellations now, above her, below her, and in all other directions. She supposes it would take weeks, or even months to catalogue them all with their corresponding patterns. Even as she realizes this, more bursts of light are shooting out.

___________


Brogot speaks again. As I said before, the smith Gornuk had his dwelling and place of business burn to the ground, along with any records of sale. Most probably, the purchaser of the armor was fallen in battle, or deceased peacefully, at which time it was divided up. I have not heard of any battle armor being sold on the open market. Even a piece of battle quality armor is quite valuable, and a glove would be worth more than most. While it would not give protection to the entire body, you could attempt to block a spell with your hand if you tried. For this reason, I believe it was purchased on the black market, or stripped from a defeated wizard in a duel, or even perhaps an heirloom. Pure blood families oft have these things lying about their houses and manors, and avoid selling them in the open market, in the attempt to hide gobin crafts from their true owners.

[al'Lan Mandrag]

Frederick

He nods at the goblin's words, then thanking all of them for their time rises and leaves, pondering the information that he had gathered.

Once out, he hurried back to the offices to report, fearful of his boss's wrath.

[Godur]

This was valuable, Siana thought. Or rather it could be very valuable. Realising this she didn't want to hand the book over to the unspeakables, who would no doubt want to study it, before she had a time to catalogue the knowledge herself -- this was much too interesting to leave alone.

Though regretfully she didn't have much time to study it at the moment, and so only took a few mnutes to look at the constellations again before shutting the book, hoping that this would end the magic for now.

[VestigeArcanist]

When siana shuts the book, the black, the stars, the patterns all disappear in an instant. after a moment of disorientation, Siana finds herself in her room, and sees that considerable time has passed. She has only twelve minutes or so to make her way to the Cheif Liaison.

[Godur]

Siana felt bewildered so shortly after closing the book. Had it been so long already? Shaking her head she places the book in one of her desk drawers which she then lock. Putting the key in her satchel she then grab a notebook before leaving her office.

Heading to the Auror Liason HQ she, and where they were supposed to meet their boss. While walking there she scribble down some of her thoughts in the notebook, so she could save time when writing her full report later.

[VestigeArcanist]

Siana and William arrive at the door of Chief Coleman's office in the Department of Mysteries. Janice and William are already standing outside of the closed door. When you join your team, Coleman speaks, "Come in."

The inside of the office is unimmpressive. The wallks have several portaits and magical paintings, though it is no one that you immediately recognize. Stacks of parchment are everywhere, and a barn owl is perched in the corner. Magical instruments are also on his desk, including a golden sneakoscope. The Chief is a squat and balding wizard, with penetrating blue eyes. He is wearing his standard navy blue cloak.

Coleman puts down the parchment that he is reading, looks up and quietly asks.

"What is your report?"

[Omeganaut]

Janice smartly steps up to give her version of events. "Sir! We arrived promptly only to discover the suspect had finished his ritual and opened a gate. The gate caused mutations in animals used in the ritual, and called forth a tentacled monster from the other side. Using a coordinated strategy I devised on the spot, we fended off the deformed animals and begin slicing apart the tentacles. Finding the monster to have a seemingly infinite supply, Siana, in a moment of insight, saw the key to ending the menace was to destroy inlaid symbols in the floor, which thanks to my leadership, was accomplished quickly enough to prevent the bulk of the tentacled being from coming through, and shutting the portal."

"When the others had recovered, I led a search of the house. While I was preoccupied with investigating the creatures, Siana located the suspect hiding in an Animagus form and took the initiative to force him to his normal form with a transfigured viper. As a result of the ensuing poisoning and Frederick's first aid, we decided to rush him to St. Mungo's. From there, Siana and Frederick went to investigate John Lowry further, while I went to put down a thorough report of the events and then look up his family, which consists only of his mother, who I believe to be oblivious to her son's illicit activities. We also apprehended a younger wizard who may have been his apprentice for questioning." Of course, every word of her report was filled with the subtle inflection that the others had tried their best, but would have been unable to accomplish their mission without her leadership and wand-work. Janice is of course careful to avoid outright condescension as the others are present, but Chief Coleman will certainly get the correct message about Janice's outstanding performance.

[al'Lan Mandrag]

Frederick Black

He listened to Janice's report with a little surprise and resignation: so this sort of arrogance wasn't solely the province of his family, well that wasn't news to him, but he didn't feel so happy that he had to work with someone like that.
Then again perseverance is a key quality of Hufflepuffs, I've learnt that, better just get on with it...

When she finished, Frederick broke in with a quick summary of his conversation with the goblins concerning the gauntlet. "This gauntlet is part of a set of armour that can deflect magic. The smith who forged it is long dead and his workshop destroyed, making this item a valuable and rare one. There are two theories concerning Lowry's possession of it: either he defeated it's owner in a duel and took it from the body, or it was handed down through an old wizarding family as an heirloom. It might be prudent to question his mother as to its providence. I know this might seem trivial in relation to the current investigations, but I believe Siana will have some information for you that will make you want us to continue to investigate."

[VestigeArcanist]

Siana thinks of the book that she has studied, and realizes that if the chief discovers the book, the Unspeakables will get ahold of it before she has adequate time to study it. "I have found nothing that would aid in the prosecution of the 'Void Magician' or any evidence that would suggest a perpetrator other than John Lowry, or his assistant." She hopes that Fredrick will get her meaning and hopes that he will drop it.

William speaks up. "I have been with Mr. Lowry at St. Mungo's. Despite the critical injuries from the snake venom, he is recovering. I have confiscated his wand, and had him placed under an anti-apparition charm. He will be available for questioning soon."


Coleman takes it all in for a moment. He breathes out, revealing the anxiety that has been on his shoulders for some time. This is quite the story. Discovered dark magic being performed, interrupted a ritual, fought off monstrosities and arrested the perp. I have one question though.” He looks at all of you in the eye (somehow) and with steel. “Why did you not tell us all this BEFORE we sent in our men into that god-forsaken basement, filled with mutated animals, a destroyed foundation, and an unconscious man with his leg chewed half off! Not to mention these 13 foot tentacles laying about! Why!?”

[al'Lan Mandrag]

Frederick

Fred felt slightly confused at first: Siana hadn't managed to discover anything? But she'd been talking to that education secretary and then had gone to investigate the book...

"Well, sir, it just didn't make sense." Frederick tried to explain. "From the information gathered at the scene it seemed like Lowry was a weak wizard, intelligent, but practically weak, yet he managed to perform a dangerous, dark ritual. It immediately peaked our interests and we went off in search of answers, obviously to the detriment of our department. We heartily apologise."

[VestigeArcanist]

“That is because ritual magic comes from the sacrifice, not the wizard.” The voice comes from behind you. A slight gaunt and greasy man is standing in the door way. “Aurors, this is Assistant to the Head Unspeakable Gregory Cottingham, our contact to the Department.” “I would prefer the title, Assistant to the Director. Unspeakable is such a strange turn of phrase of those less informed of the fabric that makes up magic.” He speaks oddly politely and precisely. Coming behind the Chief’s desk, he addresses Fredrick. “Ritual magic is unlike most forms of magic. While charms, curses and transfiguration is empowered by the wizard, ritual magic is comes from form and the sacrifice, not the practitioner, as one would call a user of ritual magic. To be a successful praticioner, one would only need the knowledge, patience and concentration to find and replicate the exact movements and signs of the ritual. And, of course, a complete disregard of one's safety.”

[Godur]

"in such a case it stands to reason that Mr.Lowry's execution of the ritual was less than adequate, given his lack of control." Siana says based on this new information, adressing Gregory with a quick, yet polite, nod. Lowry had opened the gate successfully, but it didn't look like he had control after that.

[VestigeArcanist]

"That is very probable." says Gregory Cottingham.

To what do we owe the pleasure of your company, Mr. Cottingham? says the Chief.

Oh, just checking in, hoping to get all the information on this 'Void Magician' as you called him.

"It’s curious, isn't it? Every time dangerous and forbidden magic is performed, The Department wants to get its hands on it."

"Ah, yes. As it is very dangerous, and against the Laws placed down by bureaucrats, we do not actually perform any of these rituals, but merely observe the findings of these poor, unfortunate souls. We are intelligent enough, after all, to learn from others mistakes in magic, rather than learning from our own. It would be wise advice for you and your team to follow, I think."

"We will be turning over the confiscated estate of John Lowry, as per the directive of the Minister. Would that be all?"

There is one more matter. It seems that one of your team has a certain... talent that has gained the attention of several people in the Department. The Head Unspeakable wishes to bring him onto his private bodyguard cadre. Here are the papers.

The Chief takes the bundle of parchment handed to him, and goes through them.

"Hm... It looks like you Weatherson, will be working for the Head Unspeakable. It is a great honor. Pity that I will not see you again."

There is a certain saddness in his voice, The head unspeakable is incredibly private and paranoid. You do not know his name, what he looks like, or even if the Head is a man. You are not quite sure why this is, or even how he runs the Department without being seen or known.

"As for the rest of you, you are on relief. As per Auror Protocols, any incident responded by the Department of Mysteries Task Force comes with mandatory relief and downtime of 48 hours. The point is to recover mentally. So do not be investigating, or strain yourselves, lest you end up in St. Mungo's. William, proceed with Mr. Cottingham."

The chief still has not looked up from the parchment.

[al'Lan Mandrag]

Frederick

He nodded and took the boss's instructions turning with the others and leaving. He had a certain curious streak that hadn't been sated, but his dogged manner was founded on obedience and the certainty of behaving properly.
UNless anyone says anything, Frederick will apparate back to his house and remain there, reading and tending his flowers.

[Godur]

"Best of luck Mr. Weatherson" Siana says to william with a small nod and smile, before turning on her heels to leave the office. Relief time was useful; 48 hours to study the book, and Siana wanted to make the best use of it.

Entering her own office she immediately move over to her desk and unlocked the drawer, picking up the book and placing it in her satchel. After that she headed home to rest, afterall the figh with Lowry's experiments had been tiring and studying the book in such condition was a poor idea.

[VestigeArcanist]

Siana's time away was wracked of mental and physical hardship. With the intention of studying the book as much as possible, she was able only able to spend 16 of the 48 hours suspended in the magic of the book. She was exhasted after each study session, and spent most of the remainder of her time recovering, so to keep the Chief happy.

Her time with the book has expanded her mind to new possiblities of magic. Though she does not fully understand the ritual of John Lowry, her grasp over ritual magic has increased.

Frederick's flowers, magically protected from the cold weather, are beautiful.

Janice, Fredrick and Siana are all back at the ministry entrance. They do not have any particular mission at this time (it is rare that the Department has any for them), so they are discussing what they should do today.


Siana: Permanent +1 bonus to Know (Dark Arts)
Siana: +2 Bonus to any Knowledge check when using ritual magic, or in answering a question about ritual magic.

[Loki_42]

Tamlin stares at the group near the entrance, and thinks to himself. "Are these my new teammates? Better introduce myself. Just think, Department of Mysteries, how much can I learn here!" He swiftly walks toward the group, and extends his hand. "Hello, the name is Tamlin, Tamlin Hollic. I believe you are the group I have been assigned to, yes? You're working in the Department of Mysteries?"

[al'Lan Mandrag]

Frederick Black

Frederick raises a bushy eyebrow at the new recruit, not having heard of any of this, but they had been away for a couple of days, so maybe he was Weatherson's replacement.

"Um, you'll have to forgive me, but I didn't know there was someone knew on the 'team'. Where are you from?" He tried to make the latter sound less accusing, though he couldn't stop it entirely as his Auror trained suspicions (not to mention his own experiences) had stripped away his bluff, trusting outlook.

[Godur]

Despite the forced inefficency in her research into the book Siana was still pleased with her result, resulting with her being in a good mood when she returned to the ministry building at the end of the 48 hour rest period.

Smiling, she approached the other members of the 'team' at the entrance. "Good morning Black. Good morning Selvenia." she greeted them with a polite nod to each in turn. "No sense in standing around, what say you to finding out if there's anything in store for us?" She asks just in time to acknowledge the new arrival; turning to face him.

What was it he said, Tamlin Hollic? And this about being assigned to their group was odd, she hadn't heard anything. "Charmed I'm sure." She says as she extend her hand to shake his with a polite smile on her lips.

[Loki_42]

"Well, you are the group assigned to the Department of Mysteries, correct?" He turns to Frederick to reply. "Well, actually I've been doing some independent research for a while, while I was on sick leave for some injuries I sustained in the line of duty. Before that I wasn't really with any department, I just got sent where they needed extra wands." While shaking Siana's hand, he says "What would your name be?"

[Godur]

"Perhaps you have papers to confirm your new position? We have not heard of this, you understand." Siana asks Tamlin curiously, wishing to know what his orders were. "oh, and I am Siana Morgan. My two collegues are Frederick Black and Janice Silvenia." She then adds, gesturing to each member of her team in turn as she introduce them.

[Loki_42]

Tamlin fumbles around his cloak for a moment before drawing out the requested papers. "Here they are. I'm sure you'll find everything in order."

[Godur]

Siana looks through the papers provided by Tamlin with a scrutinizing look, checking for any relevant signatures briefly before giving them to Frederick and Janice to take a look. "Very good, Mr. Hollic." She says, nodding with approval. "Your papers seems legitimate to me."

[al'Lan Mandrag]

Frederick Black

Frederick allowed himself to relax a little once Siana announced herself satisfied, there were ways to magically forge papers of course but Siana seemed competent indeed, so he would have to trust her assessment, since it would probably reduce team morale for him to come over as a suspicious person already, he didn't want them investigating him after all.

[Ahus]

Millicent

A black haired woman runs in and comes to a near sliding stop. I mustn't be late for my first day. the woman pants pushing past the group standing in front of the entrance to of the ministry building.

Upon seeing Tamlin standing with the group she stops.
Tamlin, come on we are going to be late to meet the new team from the Department of Mysteries.
Before Tamlin or any of the others can respond Millicent grabs him by the wrist and jerks him from his position. After a few steps, she realizes her mistake and sees Siana validating Tamlin's transfer papers.
Err, you already did, didn't you.
Millicent takes a moment to compose herself and flat out her riding habit.
Honestly, I am not usually so flustered.
Ahem, my name is Millicent Minerva Millstone, call sign Raven, I have transfer orders from the Department of Magical Law Enforcement to the Department of Mysteries.
Millicent hands her paperwork to Fredrick.
I trust that you will find everything in order.

[Loki_42]

Tamlin
"Hello, Millicent. Tamlin turns to the others. "Now, you say the Ministry gave you no warning of our transfer? That seems odd. Oh well. What say you give us new recruits a run down of what you usually do in the Department of Mysteries?"

[Godur]

Siana watches as the new arrival seem to try and pry Tamlin away from the group with a slightly amused smirk. It seemed that these two knew eachoter. The half-veela then smiles at Millicent. "Another new member to our group then? A pleasure" She speaks pleasantly, holding a hand out to shake hers.

"As for your transfer orders, I'm assuming it's simply a failure to communicate this information to us" She then says to Tamlin. "In any event our job is not too different from that which the magical Law enforcement does. We are, afterall, still Aurors.However you'd do well to prepare for the unexpected; the nature of the tasks we recieve from the Department of Mysteries seem to demand it."

[al'Lan Mandrag]

Frederick had to smile at Siana's understatement, unusual was hardly the word for it, especially their most recent encounter.

"I'm sure we can get you up to speed on any recent developments, but we don't want to be late."

Frederick chivvies the rest of the group along as they head to their departmental offices.

[VestigeArcanist]

The Cheif is in his office, filling out paperwork. "Yes?"

[Loki_42]

Tamlin approaches the chief, and offers his hand. "Hello, I suppose your the chief? The name's Tamlin, I'm one of the new transfers."

[Ahus]

Millicent enters the chief's office with a subtle curtsy, and follows suit in introducing herself.

Millicent Millstone, sir.
The team was about to catch us up on the status of their last investigation, however, we have postponed that lest we be late for our first check in with the department.

[VestigeArcanist]

The gruff cheif speaks in a harsh voice. Welcome to the Department. I am the Auror's Cheif Liason. You are the primary intelligence, investigative and enforcement force to the Department of Mysteries. Needless to say, you do not talk about any case, or anything you see in hear outside of these walls. Crazy s*** happens in here, and your job is to find that craziness out there and bring it in here for the squints to poke and prod at.

The Chief stands up and goes to his side table and pours himself some tea. I last investigation was closed. We have secured the premises of a Mr. Lowry, recieved a confession given under Veritaserum, along with information of interest to the squints.

Our latest investigation has concluded.

[al'Lan Mandrag]

Frederick was puzzled at first, but couldn't work out why until he realised he felt no surge of fulfilment or accomplishment on hearing that the investigation was complete. Maybe it was just that the whole thing had seemed so odd at the time, a mystery as yet unresolved. Then again, if others had used veritaserum it was probably done with, though he'd almost certainly never get any more answers. I'm starting to sound like a ravenclaw...

"That's good to hear sir." Frederick announced, trying to cover with his usual bluff personality. "Have we got anything else to investigate?"

[VestigeArcanist]

The Chief sits back down, lights his pipe and goes to reading the Daily Prophet. Nothing for the Department as it is. Thankfully, we don't have to deal with interdimensional monsters each week. He takes a few puffs. And begins angrily.

We got the Department for the Regulation and Control of Magical Creatures flipping out because of last month’s flurry of werewolf attacks, Department of International Magical Cooperation is dealing with an ongoing revolution in Sicily and our ever-competent Minister of Magic misplaced his wand. Again!

The Chief seems unpleasant.

Perhaps you would like to assist going through his undergarment drawers to find it? Oh, I just got something new on my desk. Muggles are being attacked regurgitating toilets. That seems like the perfect job for you to do!

You are pretty sure that he isn't serious.

[Ahus]

Millicent
Well sir, seeing as we don't have any pressing business, perhaps we should see about assisting the squints, with their analysis.
The word squint comes with contemplative hesitation and leaves an acrid taste in her mouth.
I imagine that putting the ritual in context for those without proper combative training, could be useful to their investigation. As such it seems a better use of our time than strolling around the city waiting for something interesting to happen.

[al'Lan Mandrag]

Frederick was surprised by Millicent's forthright attitude, but found himself agreeing with her suggestions. Well this one is no nonsense.

"This sounds useful. I have to agree with Ms Millstone here."

[VestigeArcanist]

If you wish to speak to the Unspeakables, you may, but do not fall behind on your field work. At this department, Ms. Millstone, we are successful when we come across strange magics before it becomes a public fiasco. That means cultivating assests, contacts, both inside the ministry and outside of it. But seeing as we have two newcomers here, a quick tour of the department may be beneficial.

The chief clears his voice and yells

TOLLIE!

*crack*

A small creature, no taller than three feet, appears before you, besides the Chief. It appears female, bald but with distintly long eyelashes, and seems to be wearing a curtain with a green and pink floral pattern on it. A house elf, in short.

"This is Tollie, the house elf designated to your unit. Tollie, these are Aurors Raven, Hollic, Lilith, Napoleon and Shadow. You are to give them a tour through the department, those areas which they are allowed to see, that is. You are to answer any questions that you are able to, or direct them to someone who may know the answer. Do you understand?"

A small squeking voice answers "Yes master!"
"Now go."

You all exit the office. Tollie turns to all of you, as would a tour guide. She squeaks, and speaks much too quickly. "As you all know, the Department of Mysteries is a section of the Ministry of Magic that carries out confidential research. Most of wizard-kind, even those who work in the Ministry, do not know what subjects or projects occur within these halls." If you look at her eyes, you can tell that she is looking upwards, as you would if you were trying to recite something word-for-word. "The employees of the Department of Mysteries, or "the Department" for short, are called Unspeakables. Unspeakables are assigned to any number of a given project. Your unit is offically part of the Auror Office, and as such reports to them. However, due to the unique nature of the Department's work here, your unit is attached for intelliegence, investigative and enforcement purposes."

The projects researched by the Department are many and varied. We have divisions devoted entirely to studying love, space, thought, time, death and the future. Also, many special projects are ongoing, and many secret ones, hidden from even the Chief Liason and the Auror's Office.

The head of the Department of Mysteries is known as the Head Unspeakable. We don't talk about him. Day-to-Day operations are largely overseen by Assistants to the Head Unspeakable. Most of you have already met one of them, Gregory Cottingham, who is your contact to the Department.


A brief silence which is marked only by heavy breathing. Tollie is bent over with a blue face. she somehow said all that on a single breath.

"Any-*cough* ques-*grasp*tions?"

[al'Lan Mandrag]

Frederick listened as expected, but he'd heard it all before. This was mainly for the benefit of the new members, though they would probably have surmised as much from the vast amount of hearsay and mystery that surrounded the department.

He waited for either of them to comment, ready to get on with some actual work, even if it was only of the paperwork variety.

[Ahus]

Millicent

Appreciated, Tollie you are dismissed.

Well chaps where would the researchers be studying your most recent exploits? Iwould very much like to check on their progress, prior to beginning our rounds.

[VestigeArcanist]

Tollie speaks up. "Before I go, I should tell you that Mr. Lowry's papers are still being organized and shifted throught. But I believe that they are doing something in there" She points to a door behind you, "Which needs soem Auror help. I overheard them speaking about it when cleaning up after an owl."

Tollie puts here fingers. "Am I still dismissed Mistress Millicent?"

[al'Lan Mandrag]

Frederick ignored the house elf's question, and began to walk towards the door, hoping the others would join him. When he reached it, he knocked, firmly but not aggressively, and waited for a response.

[VestigeArcanist]

The door magically opens its self. Inside, an unspeakable named Florence Kettlewell is speaking to a male wizard wearing blue robes. Ah, Auror Shadow! I was going to call onto the Liaison, but this is easier. This is Micheal Figg, from the Department of regulation and control of magical creatures. He is in need of, ah, your team's talents. Ha, ha. That I do, Florence. Micheal Figg is the name. Pleasure to meet you, ah, Auror Shadow? Tell me, is that your real name? Michael extends his hand is greeting.

[al'Lan Mandrag]

"Ah, no, just formality. Please call me Frederick." he responded genially. "How can I help you exactly?"

[VestigeArcanist]

Fredrick! A quality name for a quality Auror, I am sure! We'll you see, Fredrick, my department has been absolutely swamped. You probably did not hear about it, but last month gave a record number of werewolf sightings. It was total mayhem I tell you, I had to pull three all nighters! the misses was not happy with that, you tell me... He claps you on you shoulder as he laughs at his own joke.

Ahem, well as you can guess, a large number of sighting should equal a large number of attacks and infections. But get this, no one has come forward! Its the strangest thing indeed.He looks up, stroking his chin. Anyways, I have just been put in head of werewolf registration, and with, what, a fourfold increase in werewolf sightings, the department is shorthanded at a vital time in my career! If I do not start cataloging these werewolves, I'll be back to wrangling unruly hippogrifs! Ha ha!

[al'Lan Mandrag]

Frederick knew what it was like to conceal abnormalities, so he ventured to respond, saying: "Perhaps the people who are infected are ashamed to come forwards: perhaps they are trying to avoid the stigma that comes with such an infection. Anyway, I'm sure that my team and I can help you with some obviously needed manpower."

[Ahus]

Wow go camping for one weekend...


Tollie puts here fingers. "Am I still dismissed Mistress Millicent?"
Millicent waves her hand at the elf as if shooing it away like an insect.

She then follows Frederic through the door.

[VestigeArcanist]

That's a good man right there, isn't that right Kettlewell? Auror Fredrick Shadow, I must remember that name. Fredrick Shadow. He pulls out parchment and ink. What I'm writing down are a few of the names and addresses of those people who reported the werewolf attacks. It seems like as good a place as any to track these things down. You Aurors and Unspeakable types have your own ways of finding things, I’m sure.

He alternates scratching the names on the parchment and looking at you.

Most of these are in rural areas, as is typical of most werewolf attacks. And be careful, if you are getting close to a werewolf, things to be ugly but I’m sure a big, burly man like you has no problem handling yourself do you chap? Ha ha!

He hands you the parchment. There are approximately 25 names on the list, though a number of towns and hamlets are repeated.

[al'Lan Mandrag]

"Thank you, we'll look into this and see what we can find out. I'll be sure to keep you updated."

Frederick turns away with the parchment in hand, and takes it to the Auror's work area.
Not sure if we have offices or not.

He looks for a map of Britain, locating all of the attacks on there, and attempting to see if the could b originating from one point.

Search for map if necessary: [roll0]
Intelligence check: [roll1]

[VestigeArcanist]

Heading back to his office, Fredrick pulls out his atlas of Britian and Ireland. He lays it out on the common table at the Auror's Common Work station (Department of Mysteries branch), and proceeds to mark the map. Most of the sightings occured in or around the same town, and thus Frederick marks them as such.


London, England
Helston, Cornwall, England
Eaton, Nottinghamshire, England
Rockcliffe, Cumbria, England
Eckington, Derbyshire, England
Eddington, Kent, England
Helston, Cornwall, England
Querrin, County Clare, Ireland
Colby, Isle of Man
Trinity, Jersey
Hogsmead, Scotland
Doune, Stirling, Scotland
Loch Ness, Highlands, Scotland
Hay-on-Wye, Powys, Wales
Cerrigydrudion, Conwy, Wales


http://imgh.us/hp_d20_werewolf_map_1.jpg

[al'Lan Mandrag]

"Hmmm... There doesn't seem to be an obvious pattern here," Frederick mused aloud, "So unless werewolves are swarming out of the woodwork I think it would be safe to say that the attackers are mobile: perhaps fully fledged wizards who can apparate. That or we are in the midst of a werewolf uprising..." He ended ominously.

He turned to the others: "I'd suggest then that we look into interviewing some of the witnesses, see if we can match up any identifying features from the attackers. And we should check when the next full moon is."

Sorry for taking over, just want to propel the story somewhere....

Knowledge [Astronomy] [roll0]

[Loki_42]

"Sounds like a plan. What town shall we search first?"

Knowledge Astronomy: [roll0]

[VestigeArcanist]

Tamlin
Tamlin remembers that the next full moon is in four days. It was posted in the Daily Prophet, as it usual is.

[Loki_42]

"Also, I believe I read in the Prophet that the next full moon will be in four days."

[al'Lan Mandrag]

Frederick nods at Tamlin's astute recollection, and continues to scrutinize the map
"I'd suggest starting here." Frederick announces after some thought and pointing a large finger at the marker representing Eckington, Derbyshire. "It isn't too far, and three won't be as many possible suspects to sift through." He rationalized.

"Shall we go?" he grabs up the map and stuffs it away in a large coat pocket. Barring any interventions or objections, Frederick makes his way towards the exit and will apparate in 10 mile bursts towards his intended location.

[al'Lan Mandrag]

He strode out of the exit confidently, before closing his eyes and twisting slightly. Even as he turned, the air around him seemed to solidify, a thickness he couldn't penetrate, thickness that clutched at him and pressured him, but as soon as it came it was gone, and he stood at the outskirts of a little village. Without pause he vanished once more, again with the sickening constricting feeling, and appeared on a lonely hill top. He breathed out a relieved sigh, but knew he had to try once more and concentrating, threw himself forwards through space. But even as he twisted he realised the air felt no different, and opening his eyes he was just in time to see himself collapse in the dirt.

He raised himself, somewhat disgruntled and tried once more, spinning mroe aggressively but this only set him on the ground more firmly than the previous time.
He dusted himself off, determined now, and ready to go, but even as he spun he knew something was deeply wrong. An audible crack reverberated in the air around him and he staggered as his leg seemed to split open, a larg bright gash on his thigh.
He hissed but this pain was a reminder to him: anger wouldn't help. He attempted to compose himself, whilst concentrating on all aspects of the three Ds. He stepped forward deliberately, deterination etched across his face as he focussed with every fibre of his being on the last jump, on his destination. The air hardened around him and waves of heat and cold shot through him. It could have lasted for seconds or an eternity, but then he was stood upon a hill over looking the town that lay before him.

Relief flooded him that he had finally made it, and he brushed away his weariness: he never normally jumped that far at a time, but he needed to be alert for this encounter: it was time to hunt some wolves.

Splinch damage: [roll0]

[Loki_42]

Tamlin will adopt his bat form, and make his way to Eckington as fast as he can go.

[VestigeArcanist]

After a small series of flashing locations, Fredrick finds himself in a wooden clearing. It’s not a sunny day, as it is rare for it to be sunny in January in England, and is a bit nippy. Looking around, Fredrick sees that the clearing is about 50 feet in diameter. It is one of dozens, even hundreds of magical clearings warded against muggle intrusion, owned and operated by the ministry. For all its faults, the ministry had the foresight to prepare safe appariation arrival areas, for traveling wizards.

Frederick sees a barn owl sitting on a stand with a sign. "For emergency use only." Along with there is parchment, ink and a quill, the desk adjacent to the stand has some brochures and pamphlets "A Magical Guide through Muggle Britain", "How to Enjoy Eckington on two Knuts a Days", "Eckington, the People, the Town and the Magic" and "The Ministry's Guide to Travel, Whether by Appariation, Broom or Floo."

[Godur]

Siana had been quietly preoccupied with other thoughts during the tour, ignoring the house-elf for most of it while she ponders the content of the tome she had studied for the last few days.

She snap out of her thoughts only when Frederick speak to Florence and this Micheal fellow, listening to the discussion with some mild interest. Werewolves, well at least it would be more exciting than paperwork, she thougtht and made her way towards the floo network gates, intending to find a way to use them to Eckington.


The plan hinges on finding a floo gate that she can use in that town. Otherwhise she'll apparate there like Frederick.

Apparation rolls just in case. DC 25
[roll0]
[roll1]
[roll2]

Few extra in case any fails:
[roll3]
[roll4]
[roll5]

[VestigeArcanist]

Siana finds her way to Floo-connected fireplace. She throws the powder, steps in and yells. "Eckington!" She is whirled around and *thump* lands in a new fireplace. Stepping out she sees that she landed in a pub, named the Holly Feather, according to what is painted on the window. About four older folk are current imbibing at the bar, speaking and grunting to one another, as well as a group of six younger witches and wizards laughing and talking while eating an early lunch and late breakfast at their tables. Also there is a dark cloaked man in the corner drinking by himself, another man seemingly haggling with two goblins, a young beautiful looking couple feeding each other their food, and a middle-aged wizard, blonde haired, with a similarly looking woman and a house-elf attending to them. Lastly course there is a male bartender, elderly, and a two waitresses, one older and the other quite young.

[Loki_42]

Oh, uh, traveling there by floo seems a lot better than flying there as a bat. Tamlin will instead follow Siana to the floo gate.

[al'Lan Mandrag]

Looks like Frederick's single mindedness means he is travelling alone.... :smalltongue:

Frederick wanders through the grove, and quickly grabs the pamphlets, thinking they might prove useful to look through later.
He heads out towards the town, hoping that the other's plan to meet him there would work out.

Is Eckington a wizards only town? Or does it just have a magical populace? If Frederick wouldn't know, he'll look in the Pamphlet "Eckington, the people, the town and the magic".

[VestigeArcanist]

Fredrick Black

Inside the pamphlet, Frederick is told that the appariation clearing is only about 100 yards from the nearest road. Frederick heads that way as the map starts giving him oddly specific directions (take a left at that boulder with moss on it, and hop over the fallen tree and go straight for 134 paces, etc.)

When he gets to the roads, Frederick reads of magical Eckington. There are approximately 160 wizards living in town, quite a large population as it goes, as well as a number of magical tourists who want to explore Yorkshire. Of the wizard friendly attractions, there is the Holly Feather tavern, a potion supplies storefront, a wandmaker storefront, a dueling arena, a small Quiddich field, and an underground muggle gambling den where wizards often go and cheat muggles out of their money.


Tamlin
Tamlin quickly follows up behind Siana and sees the tavern already described.

[al'Lan Mandrag]

Frederick stooped and hunched his back, eyes cast down as though hoping to minimise his rather impressive stature and began striding towards the tavern hoping to meet up with Siana and the others.

[VestigeArcanist]

Frederick makes his way down the road and soon finds himself in the town of Eckington. It is one of many industrial towns, often found in Muggle England. As he walks down the narrow streets, Frederick smells the chemicals coming from the industrial weaving and dyeing operation. It is quite unpleasant, much more so than the lab of a potions master.

Guided by the map, Frederick's walk is largely unimpeded. Frederick passes by a pair of well dressed men, who scoff at him and turn up their noses, most probably because of his strange fashion and large size. A block later a trio of muggle women, quiet young and attractive, laugh and wave flirtatiously at him. Frederick waves back, politely. At the next intersection he stops, looks around and sees the tavern appear, squeezed in between two buildings where he was sure they were not before. Putting the pamphlets into his pockets, he walks forward into the tavern.

[al'Lan Mandrag]

I think Frederick would wear large billowy black robes so people wouldn't quite be sure if he was bulky or it was the robes.

Frederick wanders in to the tavern, and removes his cloak. He then scand the room for his fellows, and on finding them nods. This would probably be best done separately, he thought.

He walks over to the four older folk and attempts to strike up a conversation. "These muggle potions labs don't half smell do they?"

Diplomacy: [roll0]

[VestigeArcanist]

The closest one, an elderly balding wizard with white hair, "Hrm, that place reaks. Dare say it burns the nose." A peaky and beaten looking man interrupts.Hey! Bar rules is that if you sit, you buy the next round.

[al'Lan Mandrag]

Frederick chuckles appreciatively, but pulls out a small pouch and signals to one of the waitresses all the same. "Funny rules you got here," he said smiling, "what do you guys want? I tell you could do with some Firewhisky to warm me up after that journey."

He buys the next round.

[VestigeArcanist]

"Heheheh"., says one of the patrons as he recieves his whiskey. Another patron raises his drink and proclaims, "To England, To the queen, and to Merlin's socks!"

"To Merlin's socks!" the others chant. A few patrons glance in there direction, but return to their business.

"So tell me lad, what travels bring you to Eckington?" The elderly balding wizard asks.

[al'Lan Mandrag]

Frederick, not normally known for his guile, smiles inwardly that his bluff personality worked in his favour this time round.

"Well it's business unfortunately," he offers them a conspiratorial look, "It's 'bout all these Werewolf attacks. Bad business 'course, but ministry wants some investigating done. You wouldn't happen to have heard anything? Know where they happened perhaps?"

[Loki_42]

Tamlin will purchase a drink, and then head over to the man drinking alone in the corner. "Mind if I take a seat?"

[Godur]

Siana moved across the floor of the tavern, dusting herself off after traveling by Floo. She didn't like travelling that way, but it was expedient at least. Peering at her collegues briefly before she take a seat by the bar. "A glass of wine, please. White." She orders from the bartender, flashing him a pleasant smile. "Would you be the proprietor of this charming establishment?"

[VestigeArcanist]

Frederick

The man who gave the toast to Merlin's socks speaks first.
"Hm. Well we don't normally talk about such bad business. Never talk about half-breeds in polite company and all. So people don't talk, and I usually don't ask."

The balding man speaks next.
"Actually, there is that one lady..." He turns to you more fully. "On the outskirts of town, there's a bit of a loopy woman keeps yelling about werewolves and all. I wouldn't take her seriously though. She's not the most balanced of girls."

The grizzled man laughs and speaks uncharacteristically loudly.
"That's an understatement! Every full moon she tears off her clothes and runs about, chanting something to the Earth Mother and the Moon Father."

The man who toasted speaks again.
"Say, is there a reward if we catch a werewolf? I got an E in my Magical Creatures NEWT."

Tamlin

The man puts his mugs down and signals with his hand that Tamlin is to sit. He moves slowly, but deliberately.

"You are an Auror."

Siana

The bartender smiles brightly back at Siana. He performs wand work as he speaks. "Why yes, and no. My daughter over is the owner of this tavern, he points to the young waitress. She's my pride that one." A wine glass and a wine bottle hovers to the bar. The bottle is a little bit shakey, but it successfully pours itself without spilling a drop.

[Loki_42]

Tamlin nods to the man, and takes a seat. "Correct. Me and my companions are investigating a recent line of werewolf attacks. You wouldn't happen to know of such a thing, would you?"

[al'Lan Mandrag]

To the last man Frederick shakes his head, "Won't want to be 'caring' for the likes of these: if there's real werewolves about I'd suggest you call for help from the ministry."

"Could you give me the woman's name and address? Better find out what she knows." The way he grimaces afterwards indicates it is not a task he will relish.

[VestigeArcanist]

Tamlin

Pardon, but I do not volunteer information quite as easily as you. May I offer you a drink Tamlin?

Frederick
Oh yeah, yeah. Name is Saundra Goranson. She has a small cottage to the south east part of town.

[Loki_42]

Tamlin begins to get a bad feeling about this man, glancing about the room at his fellow aurors and briefly feeling for his wand. Turning back to the man, he says "Certainly, a drink would be lovely. Tell me, should I have any reason to be wary of volunteering my information here? I'm just doing my job as an auror, and furthermore, I have several other capable wizards as backup, should anything go wrong. But perhaps you'll be more willing to part with information after this drink?"

[al'Lan Mandrag]

Frederick thanks the men and leaves them to their drinks and heads out of the tavern, pulling his cloak round him as he goes. He strides purposefully across town aiming to find Saundra's house.

If he finds it successfully he'll knock gently on the door and introduce himself calmly to whoever opens it.

[VestigeArcanist]

Tamlin

The man raises his hand and motions to the waitress. Observing him closely, You see that he is weraing a fine black cloak, worn but far from shabby. He has black hair with some grayish streaks, and a black mustache and goatee. He wears a golden pin on his cloak, and a triangular brim hat, which is fraying, but fashionable so.

You here a ruckus behind you from the far side of the room, the two goblins are being quite loud at the wizard there.

The man before you is silent, though his eyes come in and out of focus. It is a few moments before the waitress comes before you and asks?

"How may I serve you gentlemen?"

Frederick Black
You go back out to the burning chemical smell of the garment district of Eckington. You intially go up the same road you came from, and agin pass the trio of attractive, faired skin muggle women, upper-middle class from what you gather from their attire. They giggle when they see you and wave to you.

A boy comes jogging out from the side street and up to you. "Hey mister-sir? I am lost, can you help me?"
The boy is wearing worn clothes, a little too big for him. His face is smugde by dirt.

[al'Lan Mandrag]

"I doubt it," Frederick mutters in reply, hoping not to get involved with the muggle boy, "I don't know this place myself. You wouldn't know where Saundra Goranson lives would you? A little cottage near here? Where are you trying to get to?"

[Loki_42]

Looking up at the waitress, Tamlin says "I'll just have a pint of ale." After the waitress has taken both of our orders, Tamlin turns back to the man, and points to the golden pin on his cloak. "Tell me, that's a nice pin, what's it for?"

[VestigeArcanist]

Frederick

"I don't know anything, I'm lost snd I want my mommy and daddy!" The boy starts crying. Hey you little squirt! You didn't think you'd get far, did you? A mean looking, red-head older boy comes from the same direction that the smaller boy came. He too looks to be a bit dirty, and wearling clothes that are a bit too small for him. The small boy gives a yelp and hides himself behind you.

Tamlin
The man responds, "Nothing for me thanks."He pulls out three small bottles, filled with Red, Orange and Violet liquids, respecitively. The waitress steps away from you, converses briefly to the couple behind you before heading behind the bar.

The man pulls out his wand, and silently drinks each of the bottles. After he finishes. 'It is a gold pin. It looks fashionable with my clothes. Tell me Auror, why did you sit down and speak with me?"

[Loki_42]

"Because, I am investigating this town on official business, trying to find out if there was any connection between the various werewolf attacks that have been going on lately. I have no ulterior motives. Something which I'm not sure is shared by the both of us." Tamlin takes a sip of his drink and draws his own wand. "I've answered you, now it's my turn. How did you know I was an auror?"

[VestigeArcanist]

Tamlin

With the speed of a cheetah, the man shoots out his hand and covers your ale. "Don't drink that!" in a stern, low whisper. He has leaned over the table, and is intently looking at you. His eyes temporarily go out of focus and then he slowly scans behind you.

[al'Lan Mandrag]

Frederick looks up annoyed: it isn't that he hates the boys, but he doesn't have time to play mother to a bunch of scrawny muggles, not on the minsitry's knutt anyway.

"Leave off you." He shouted at the red haired chap, using his physical presence to deter the kid.

Intimidate: [roll0]

[Loki_42]

Tamlin matches the man's whisper, but keeps his eyes focused on the man. "You buy me a drink, and then tell me not to drink it? What the hell is going on here?"

[VestigeArcanist]

Frederick

Eepp! The red haired child turns around and runs right off.

Thank you sooo much mister-sir. He is a meanie old bully. He looks around, "I think I know where to go now. Thank you, bye-bye." And the little boy runs off as fast as he came. You hear the you ladies giggling as the boys run off.

Tamlin
"Your drink has been poisioned. You are an Auror, how can this not have happened to you already?" The continues his gaze around the room. You notice that his pupils have dilated momentarily then has returned to normal size.

The Holly Feather Tavern

http://imgh.us/Holly_feather_battle_1.jpg

Red- Tamlin
Blue- The bartender and barmaids
Magenta- Older gruff men at the bar
Lime Green- Young wizards and witches eating together
Silver- Young Couple
Green- Goblins
Yellow- Man haggling with Goblins
Purple- Dark clothed man

Brown- Tables/Bar
Orange- Doors
Black- Fireplace

[al'Lan Mandrag]

Would it be inapprpriate to stun the little boy and torture him for all he knows.... probably :smalltongue:

"Oi, you!", Frederick called, come back here, I thought you were lost.
Confused by the boy's behaviour, Frederick waits until he is about to round the corner, then apparates directly in front of him.
Take 10 for 4 ND. If possible he will move out of the women's line of sight first.

[Loki_42]

"Why would they poison my drink? What's going on here, I want answers!"

[Godur]

Siana casts an appraising look to the younger waitress, before nodding to the bartender. "Rightly so." She says, smiling as she take a sip of her wine. "If I may ask, how did she get to become the owner?"

She notices some form of commotion in the corner, glancing at Tamlin and the man there, discreetly watching them while she sip of her wine.

[VestigeArcanist]

Frederick

Crack Frederick magically pops in front of the boy. He has two peices of gold in his hands. "I- uh-...I, uh ah!" He stammers, profusely.

Tamlin

Calm down! Reason through this. Your drink has been poisoned. What do you do now? He continues to look past you. And I reckon you figure it out quick. We got about a minutue before hell breaks loose in here.

Siana
Well, she worked here for some time as a barmaid. Really saved up her money, you know? She comes to me and a few of her friends, and asks for some money, and two days later, she buys it off the old owner! Now I'm working for her, ha ha ha! He looks contemplative.Now that I think about it, she did pay us back really quickly, and even with the borrowed coin, she shouldn't be able to afford to buy this place...

[al'Lan Mandrag]

Frederick lookd at the gold in the boys hands (I auume it's wizard gold). "And who's money would that be hmmm?" Frederick asks, knowing that the boys must have been in league to rob him. Pity they picked a wizard, and an auror at that. "Now if you give me back that gold and tell me what I want to know, I won't report you to the police all right? And if your information is helpful, I might give you some of that back."

[VestigeArcanist]

The muggle boy stammers and points at you. "Wha-what? How did you pop in front of me? Ah!" His hands were shaking so much that the two coins fall out of his hand, onto the ground. He does not appear to notice.

[al'Lan Mandrag]

"Didn't you know that your elders always no best." Frederick growled before stooping for the coins. "Now this is real gold, so if you tell me where this woman lives you might get lucky today."

[VestigeArcanist]

"Uh-uh-uh." He stammers for a bit. After a second, he looks at the gold coin in your hand again. "Who are you looking for?"

[al'Lan Mandrag]

"A lady named Saundra Goranson. She lives near here I believe."

[VestigeArcanist]

'Senile Saundra? She got carted away after biting a man two weeks ago. She's not at home no more. She's at the asylum. You her brother or something?'

[al'Lan Mandrag]

"Something like that..." Frederick replies, lost in thought. "Where is this asylum?" He asked tersely.

[Loki_42]

Is there any way Tamlin can get Siana's attention? If so, he does that, and tries to motion behind him. He then grabs his drink, and pretends to sip at it, showing the man in front of him that he's not actually drunk any.

[VestigeArcanist]

Tamlin

Siana notices Tamlin, politely excuses herself from her company and glides her way between the tables. She stops next to you, still standing up and introduces herself to the man. 'Charmed to meet you." She puts out her hand. "You requested my presence?" The question is directed at you.

Frederick

Umm, its in the south-west quarter I think? Across the street from the prison and down the block from the courthouse. It's hard to miss.

[al'Lan Mandrag]

Thank you then Frederick says, tossing one of the coins to the boy before heading off in the direction of the asylum

[VestigeArcanist]

Frederick heads to the south-west quarter. Looking for the asylum, he he passes a courthouse, where he spots a number of police officers, lawyers and other civilizians. An somewhat nicer area, the area smells of coal and chemicals from the dyeing plants. Many of the Offical buildings were once much nicer, you presume, if they weren't dirtied by the coal dust.

Down the street is a dark building. It looks almost fortress-like, very few windows, think walls and surrounded by a Hedges and 10 foot wrought iron fence. There is a stone gateway, through which you see the the front double doors. You see a sign etched into the stone archway. 'White River Insitute for Female Lunacy'.

[al'Lan Mandrag]

Frederick enters, glancing around uncomfortably: If she's a witch, why is she not in St Mungo's he wondered.

He went to the front desk and asked politely: "Good Morning, I'mm here to see my sister, Saundra. Saundra Goranson. I'm Frederick Goranson. Could you tell me which room she's in?"

Bluff [roll0]

[VestigeArcanist]

A the front desk is an orderly, dressed in white. He has olive skin and dark bushy eyebrows, and hairy arms. In his thirties, probably. His uniform is dirtied. The inside of the asylum is lit by a few candles near the entrance, and the little natural light that trickles through the narrow windows.

The disinterested orderly speaks. 'All vistors are required to sign in.' He hands you a book written in. There is a quill and ink on the desk infront of you. The orderly pulls on a rope labled 'Lounge', (there is a seriesof ropes similarly labled.)

A gentleman comes up in a minutes time. He is a older man, 50's if you were to guess, white hair, rough skin, and a bit of stubble. He himself is wearing a brown-ish frock, and carrying a candle. He is a bit hunched over, from age, and a bit shorter than the normal human, over whom you, obviously, tower over.

"I am the chief medical officer here. Welcome to White River, how may I assist you?"

[al'Lan Mandrag]

"I would like to visit my sister, Saundra." Frederick replied, laying down the quill and gently dabbing at the glistening ink with some spare blotting paper. "Can that be arranged?"

[VestigeArcanist]

Yes yes, absolutely. If you’d kindly follow Mr. Clairvont and I. He turns down the dark corridor holding the candle in front. Mr. Clairvont, the orderly, is behind you. He is quite large when standing. As they lead you through the long, twisting hallway, The Doctor speaks. “It’s very interesting architecture, is it not? White River was a fortress in the War of the Roses. In these civilize times, we do not need such fortresses to keep the order. It is quite suitable for asylum. The women here may become violent, and try to escape! It is a common mania. Here we are!” There is a thick black door in front of you, which the Doctor opens with a key ring.

The room before you is quite large, but nevertheless packed full with women. Over fifty you imagine, each one thinning, dirty, and sickly. There is a single window, from where light shines through. A number of torches line the walls. The doctor walks through the room and they part like the Red Sea before Moses. The orderly makes a sudden movement ‘Boo!’ and several women shriek and clamber away from you all.

The doctor goes to the back of the room, where there is a singular woman with both hands chained to the floor. She is wearing some sort of leather mask. “Hello little Saundra! How are you this morning? She has been quite resistant to treatment after she was brought here by the courts. She bit an orderly’s ear off and clawed his face pretty good. Not to mention the damage she has done to the other girls here. Hence the restraints.” The orderly unbuckles the leather mask, which is revealed to have a bit.

“Saundra, your brother came to visit you! Isn’t that nice? I apologize, but we must remain here. For both your protection, you see.”

[al'Lan Mandrag]

Before Saundra could give the game away Frederick quickly said: "Hello Saundra, just came from the Auror office as soon as I heard. Everything's going to be all right, we'l sort it all out." He turned back to the pair: "As you can see, she can't hurt anyone here, and I'm a large chap: I can deal with her don't worry. Could we have some privacy?"

[VestigeArcanist]

Very well. I do have my other patients to attend to. Mr. Clairvont, please stay nearby to resecure the patient. The Doctor leaves, and the orderly moves to the center of the room, about 20 feet behind you two.

[al'Lan Mandrag]

"Right Saundra, I'm an Auror from the ministry: you are a witch aren't you?" e asked in a low whisper. "We investigating the men who attacked you: well the werewolves."

[VestigeArcanist]

Saundra looks up. She looks... unbalanced, but she speaks slowly and carefully. 'Auror you say? You need to get me out of here. I don't have my wand you see. I cannot apparate, neither, or the muggles wouldn't have gotten me. Get me out, then we talk.'

[al'Lan Mandrag]

Frederick was loathe to trust this woman, suspecting that she was a werewolf, but still, that was only at full moon....

Ok, he murmured, grabbing her arm and turning, concentrating on elsewhere and appearing in the pub he had recently vacated.

He called to Siana and Tamlin, to indicate that he had an important suspect/witness, then sat her down and gave her an appraising look without saying anything.

[VestigeArcanist]

With a crack you arrive at the Holly Feather Tavern. "Oh, dearest. We are free now. Isn't that nice?" Saundra looks like she had just escaped from a mental insitution, fittingly enough. Her hands are still bound by metal cuffs.

The tavern is much as you left it. Calling for Siana and Tamlin, Siana moves to you. Tamlin looks over quickly at you (you are at center of the room) and you hear Sectumsempra! from behind you. You see purple light fill the room. Tamlin falls over, covered in blood, and the gentleman at his table has flippped it the table on its side and crouching behind it.

You believe you saw one of the waitresses, out of the corner of your eye, with her wand out, pointing at that corner of the room.


Attack on Tamlin
[roll0]
[roll1]

[al'Lan Mandrag]

Initiative: [roll0]

Frederick grabbed Saundra and hid her behind him before running to the side of the room to find cover, using his body as a shield. He waves to Siana and Tamlin to get into cover as well, hoping that the latter is not too badly injured.

[VestigeArcanist]

Screams erupt from the tavern. The young wizards and witches drop to the ground, screaming, as does the couple on the table adjecent to them.

The man who was at the far side of the room with the Goblins breaks for the door.

Oh, no you don't sonny.
They cahse him about halfway across the room and trip him.

No, no, no!
His cries are met with a boot to the face. Even as he tries to get up, the other goblin tackles and wrestles with him on the ground.

Try to run from us?


The elderly Bar Patrons, Barkeep and the waitress are frozen in place in all this, until

One of the elderly patrons, Whom had helped frederick earlier this very day, jumps off his stoll, while whipping out his wand towards Victoria and yelling.


Petrif-!
NOT MY DAUGHTER! Stupefy!
The Barkeep hits him from behind, and he collapses.
Elizabeth! Get Victoria! go through the back door.

A waitress, whom you assume is Elizabeth goes up to Victoria, and tries to get her to follow, but Victoria raises her wand again, to the dark-dressed man in the corner.

Expulso! Expulso!

Her aim is poor, and the man's cover good. She successfully destroyed part of the back wall, though injuring nobody.

The Man in black, still crouching behind his up-turned table, points his wand behind him at yells out Defodio!, removing part of the wall, exposing an new exit to Muggle Eckington.

Saundra cries.


Goblins-
Trip
Attack: [roll0]

Attack: [roll1]
Damage: [roll2]

Grapple
Attack: [roll3]

Attack: [roll4]
Damage: [roll5]


Old Wizard
Petrificus Totalus!
Attack: [roll6]
Skill Check: [roll7]

Barkeep
Stupefy!
Attack: [roll8]
Skill Check: [roll9]

Attacking Waitress
Expulso!
Attack: [roll10]
Skill Check: [roll11]
Damage: [roll12]

Expulso!
Attack: [roll13]
Skill Check: [roll14]
Damage: [roll15]

Mysterious Man
Protego1 1 (If Necessary)
Skill Check: [roll16]

Protego! 2 (If Necessary)
Skill Check: [roll17]

Defodio!
Skill Check: [roll18]