Second generation (IC)

[Illven]

It was a cool day on the shores of the prismatic sea. The skies were gray, and the wind spurred the waves.

The prismatic sea was walled off only official business allowed there, Ships can could handle the waters, and their crew were usually the only ones allowed past the walls.

The guards gave you no trouble however when they heard that Fergin Goldhand was inviting you to hear an offer.

100 feat from the Prismatic sea he stands dressed in the finest clothes and jewelry.

Friends. He says throwing his arms wide. I bring joyous tidings. I stand before you with a request. My traveling caravans need plenty of guards to survive in the wilds, and normally my servants suffice. I do lose a few caravans each year He shrugs his shoulders at that.

But for the most we survive. But now I am transporting valuable materials to the Holy City of Pelor. My servants will not be enough to ensure the cargo's safety, and I don't want to make an enemy of the church. So friends, will you help a man in need.

Gnomes2169

To your left stands a gorgeous woman with long dirty blond hair and dark green eyes. She stands a bit less then 5 and a half feet and is very skinny. Her top is revealing showing an ample chest, and she wears leggings and a short skirt. She carries a Scythe, a Greatclub, and a Longbow.

A small girl stands before you. Only 5 feet and extremely skinny. She has blue eyes, and long black hair tied up into a ponytail. Her well crafted steel plate covers her from head to foot, she carries a large shield, and a Lance, Sword, Mace, and several small throwing spears weapons. Next to her is a large, well trained Horse covered in leather.

A woman barely over 5 feet with a mask stands before you. You see green eyes and wisps of sliver hair. She wears black leather armor, has a scythe on her back, and a dagger on her hip as well as several pouches. A Large warrior straddled in steel with a sword and shield looks at the woman never wavering.

A average sized man with average weight with brown eyes and black hair dressed a simple explorer's outfit. A loyal large dog stands at his feet.

A small male gnome dressed in robes with blonde hair, blue eyes, brown skin Old burn scars on left jaw from an old alchemy experiment.

A young man Slightly taller than the average, tidy shoulder length brown hair with soft baby blue eyes. Has a smile on his face at all opportunities and dresses casually. Could be mistaken for the easy going performer type.


Ravena

To your right stands A tall, thin crystaline being that appears to be made of clear-ish onyx with lines of white marble running through it like veins run through a living being. Its eyes are made of the same white stone, and they glow ever so lightly.

To your left A small girl stands before you. Only 5 feet and extremely skinny. She has blue eyes, and long black hair tied up into a ponytail. Her well crafted steel plate covers her from head to foot, she carries a large shield, and a Lance, Sword, Mace, and several small throwing spears weapons. Next to her is a large, well trained Horse covered in leather.

A woman barely over 5 feet with a mask stands before you. You see green eyes and wisps of sliver hair. She wears black leather armor, has a scythe on her back, and a dagger on her hip as well as several pouches. A Large warrior straddled in steel with a sword and shield looks at the woman never wavering.

A average sized man with average weight with brown eyes and black hair dressed a simple explorer's outfit. A loyal large dog stands at his feet.

A small male gnome dressed in robes with blonde hair, blue eyes, brown skin Old burn scars on left jaw from an old alchemy experiment.

A young man Slightly taller than the average, tidy shoulder length brown hair with soft baby blue eyes. Has a smile on his face at all opportunities and dresses casually. Could be mistaken for the easy going performer type.


Rei of hope

To your right stands a tall, thin crystaline being that appears to be made of clear-ish onyx with lines of white marble running through it like veins run through a living being. Its eyes are made of the same white stone, and they glow ever so lightly.

A gorgeous woman with long dirty blond hair and dark green eyes. She stands a bit less then 5 and a half feet and is very skinny. Her top is revealing showing an ample chest, and she wears leggings and a short skirt. She carries a Scythe, a large club, and a Longbow.

To your left stands A woman barely over 5 feet with a mask stands before you. You see green eyes and wisps of sliver hair. She wears black leather armor, has a scythe on her back, and a dagger on her hip as well as several pouches. A Large warrior straddled in steel with a sword and shield looks at the woman never wavering.

A average sized man with average weight with brown eyes and black hair dressed a simple explorer's outfit. A loyal large dog stands at his feet.

A small male gnome dressed in robes with blonde hair, blue eyes, brown skin Old burn scars on left jaw from an old alchemy experiment.

A young man Slightly taller than the average, tidy shoulder length brown hair with soft baby blue eyes. Has a smile on his face at all opportunities and dresses casually. Could be mistaken for the easy going performer type.


Cosgrow

To your right A tall, thin crystaline being that appears to be made of clear-ish onyx with lines of white marble running through it like veins run through a living being. Its eyes are made of the same white stone, and they glow ever so lightly.

A gorgeous woman with long dirty blond hair and dark green eyes. She stands a bit less then 5 and a half feet and is very skinny. Her top is revealing showing an ample chest, and she wears leggings and a short skirt. She carries a Scythe, a Greatclub, and a Longbow.

A small girl stands before you. Only 5 feet and extremely skinny. She has blue eyes, and long black hair tied up into a ponytail. Her well crafted steel plate covers her from head to foot, she carries a large shield, and a Lance, Sword, Mace, and several small throwing spears weapons. Next to her is a large, well trained Horse covered in leather.

To your left A average sized man with average weight with brown eyes and black hair dressed a simple explorer's outfit. A loyal large dog stands at his feet.

A small male gnome dressed in robes with blonde hair, blue eyes, brown skin Old burn scars on left jaw from an old alchemy experiment.

A young man Slightly taller than the average, tidy shoulder length brown hair with soft baby blue eyes. Has a smile on his face at all opportunities and dresses casually. Could be mistaken for the easy going performer type.


jaydubs

To your right A tall, thin crystaline being that appears to be made of clear-ish onyx with lines of white marble running through it like veins run through a living being. Its eyes are made of the same white stone, and they glow ever so lightly.

A gorgeous woman with long dirty blond hair and dark green eyes. She stands a bit less then 5 and a half feet and is very skinny. Her top is revealing showing an ample chest, and she wears leggings and a short skirt. She carries a Scythe, a Greatclub, and a Longbow.

A small girl stands before you. Only 5 feet and extremely skinny. She has blue eyes, and long black hair tied up into a ponytail. Her well crafted steel plate covers her from head to foot, she carries a large shield, and a Lance, Sword, Mace, and several small throwing spears weapons. Next to her is a large, well trained Horse covered in leather.

A woman barely over 5 feet with a mask stands before you. You see green eyes and wisps of sliver hair. She wears black leather armor, has a scythe on her back, and a dagger on her hip as well as several pouches. A Large undead skeleton straddled in steel with a sword and shield looks at the woman never wavering.

To your left A small male gnome dressed in robes with blonde hair, blue eyes, brown skin Old burn scars on left jaw from an old alchemy experiment.

A young man Slightly taller than the average, tidy shoulder length brown hair with soft baby blue eyes. Has a smile on his face at all opportunities and dresses casually. Could be mistaken for the easy going performer type.


holydeg

To your right stands A tall, thin crystaline being that appears to be made of clear-ish onyx with lines of white marble running through it like veins run through a living being. Its eyes are made of the same white stone, and they glow ever so lightly.

A gorgeous woman with long dirty blond hair and dark green eyes. She stands a bit less then 5 and a half feet and is very skinny. Her top is revealing showing an ample chest, and she wears leggings and a short skirt. She carries a Scythe, a Greatclub, and a Longbow.

A small girl stands before you. Only 5 feet and extremely skinny. She has blue eyes, and long black hair tied up into a ponytail. Her well crafted steel plate covers her from head to foot, she carries a large shield, and a Lance, Sword, Mace, and several small throwing spears weapons. Next to her is a large, well trained Horse covered in leather.

A woman barely over 5 feet with a mask stands before you. You see green eyes and wisps of sliver hair. She wears black leather armor, has a scythe on her back, and a dagger on her hip as well as several pouches. A Large warrior straddled in steel with a sword and shield looks at the woman never wavering.

A average sized man with average weight with brown eyes and black hair dressed a simple explorer's outfit. A loyal large dog stands at his feet.

To your left A young man Slightly taller than the average, tidy shoulder length brown hair with soft baby blue eyes. Has a smile on his face at all opportunities and dresses casually. Could be mistaken for the easy going performer type.


WesleyB

To your left A tall, thin crystaline being that appears to be made of clear-ish onyx with lines of white marble running through it like veins run through a living being. Its eyes are made of the same white stone, and they glow ever so lightly.

A gorgeous woman with long dirty blond hair and dark green eyes. She stands a bit less then 5 and a half feet and is very skinny. Her top is revealing showing an ample chest, and she wears leggings and a short skirt. She carries a Scythe, a Greatclub, and a Longbow.

A small girl stands before you. Only 5 feet and extremely skinny. She has blue eyes, and long black hair tied up into a ponytail. Her well crafted steel plate covers her from head to foot, she carries a large shield, and a Lance, Sword, Mace, and several small throwing spears weapons. Next to her is a large, well trained Horse covered in leather.

A woman barely over 5 feet with a mask stands before you. You see green eyes and wisps of sliver hair. She wears black leather armor, has a scythe on her back, and a dagger on her hip as well as several pouches. A Large undead warrior straddled in steel with a sword and shield looks at the woman never wavering. You remember that undead are both illegal in Melliar, and Pelor's Holy city.

A average sized man with average weight with brown eyes and black hair dressed a simple explorer's outfit. A loyal large dog stands at his feet.

A small male gnome dressed in robes with blonde hair, blue eyes, brown skin Old burn scars on left jaw from an old alchemy experiment.

[Cogsrow]

"She adjusts her stance and makes sure her mask is in place properly and closes her green eyes feeling the scythe. looking at the others, well this was an interesting lot. she looks at the crystalline being wondering what the hell that was"

[jaydubs]

Joriah looked to his left and his right, noting the... distinctness of his company. He had worked hard to blend in. And now his normalcy made him somewhat... abnormal. Ah, I suppose it can't be helped, he thought.

He didn't know much about Fergin Goldhand, except that the people in this city considered him important. And if people consider you important, you generally are. It was time to make a first impression.

Joriah takes a small step forward. "Good sir. I think that is the reason we have all gathered together here - to offer our help to a man in need." He bends slightly at the waist in a show of deference, before straightening back up.

"Perhaps it would help things if we all introduced ourselves. I am Joriah Jabberlane - a student of the human condition. Though perhaps in this situation, it is more relevant to say I am a dabbler in the druidic arts. And this is my faithful hound, Roshan. " He points down towards a large husky clad in leather armor.

http://i789.photobucket.com/albums/yy175/jaydubs67/spearavatarsmall_zpsf31421c0.jpg?t=1386092837 http://i789.photobucket.com/albums/yy175/jaydubs67/huskyavatarsmall_zps636409af.jpg?t=1386092824

"It would be a pleasure to be of service," he says before stepping back.

[Rei of Hope]

*A small woman is in the back of the group standing next to a brilliant horse outfit in leather. Her armor shines in the sun and leaves no clues on what lies beneath the metal. A helmet covers the young adventures face but her blue eyes are transfixed on the man in all his finery. After the druid speaks, she does not move but speaks to the point.* You have my services.

[Cogsrow]

"orianna looks at the man" How much are you paying us?

"she looks at the other man of their menagerie" I'd rather not say who I am to a total stranger "The large man in armor shifts his stance a bit, nothing more than the normal motions a bored man goes through while waiting, she looks away" besides I'm not in any rush to get friendly with someone that may not survive this task

[WesleyB]

Knowing that the time to get to know each other would present itself on the road Kemsey wastes little time observing the others with him other than the obvious. He takes a moment to unstrap his backpack and sits it on his feet. And with a wide toothed smile he answers. "Sir Goldhand, I understand that if you had not required my skills then you would not have sent for me in the first place. I can guarantee both the opportunity for coin and to work with the authority your title brings will secure my services."

Quickly glancing around those that would be joining him he softly regards. "My name is Kemsey."

[holydeg]

The little gnome bows, "Those who know of me call me Dell." As he stands, he asks, "If I might enquire, are there any particular... situations - you anticipate needing our distinct skill sets for?"

[jaydubs]

Joriah pulls what appears to be a leather spellbook from his pack.

http://img1.etsystatic.com/042/0/5398683/il_340x270.519248067_rmh8.jpg

With a pleased smile, he begins to write in it, glancing first at Fergin Goldhand, and then at each other person in the order in which they had spoken.

[Gnomes2169]

The stone creature closed its book, looking up at the others with a curt nod. Though not really all that enthused to be in present company, one might as well be pleasant... or at least tolerable. "Greetings to you, Joriah Jabberlane. You may call me Chess, as my true name is rather a lot harder to pronounce. I hope that our business together is... pleasant and enlightening. Would it be so bold of me to assume that you are a wanderer of the wild and user of the divine known as a 'druid', by some?" It would explain the animal traveling with Joriah, and if it was true than this could be most... enlightening. More spells and knowledge to record, and all that.

As for the business at hand, well... it would be a good way to learn and make money, Chess supposed, and keep him close to the druid. So it was an excellent business proposal. Though there was no need to vocalize that just yet...

[jaydubs]

Joriah closes his book, and turns toward the stone creature.

"Why, hello Chess. A pleasure to make your acquaintance. I've never had the opportunity to meet a... er..." He fumbles for a moment. "A crystalline entity such as yourself before. I'm sure it will prove most interesting."

He considers offering his hand for a moment, but thinks better of it. You never know with unusual creatures. Sometimes they are as harmless as your next door neighbor. Others can poison you with a touch, turn you to stone with a gaze, or just give you an allergic rash. And the stone creature definitely fell on the unusual side of things.

"To answer your question, yes. I do have access to druidic magics, though I spend less time wandering the wilds nowadays than I used to. And you? What skills do you bring to our presumably esteemed company?"

[Gnomes2169]

"Ah, you are a druid... most excellent. I myself dabble in the divine arts, though on a much broader base than you, truth be told. I believe the term given to my profession is Archivist, and though I have just begun my journey, I am already starting to amass my own compendium of divine spells... only clerical, at the moment. Hopefully we will be able to work together to fix that in the future." Yes, every possible resource must be tapped...

"And as for my race, the word you are looking for is, 'Arcanite'. We have a flying city on top of Boccob's mountain a ways off. Nice place. Very boring."

[Cogsrow]

"She watches the two talk and looks back at the merchant waiting for an answer" Cause I will say I don't, do charity especially not something that is life threatening "continues ignoring the others"


what her mask looks like, http://fc06.deviantart.net/fs70/f/2011/001/3/5/jack_of_blades_by_torvald2000-d367tsu.jpg

[Ravena]

Donna rocks back and forth on her feet ever so slightly. Listening to the peoples conversation, making mental notes of them. She looked up and down each person, yet her eyes never seeming to move in their socket. So... are we gonna learn of this pay or not... She thought to herself as the women in the mask asks about pay again. But her attention peaks to the druid and... arcanite was he, once the words of magic were uttered.

[jaydubs]

"A floating city in the sky, populated by beings of living crystal who I've never heard of before, boring? Hardly. Quite the opposite in fact."

Joriah stops for a moment to collect his thoughts.

"Listen. From what I've heard about archivists, and from your... interest in my spell-casting capabilities, I think I know what you're getting at. And I happen to have a few projects you could help me with as well. Let us discuss the matter, in private, at a later time."

Joriah points at the smallish woman in the rather intimidating mask. "I think we're disturbing the very... serious looking young lady over there."

[Gnomes2169]

"Perhaps we should discuss payment instead, since that seems to be what entertains her right now." Cess said, nodding to the masked lady. "And I shall admit, I'm curious about it as well."

[Cogsrow]

"she looks a tthem her emerald eyes moveing behind her mask hiding her expression but her tone was simply cold and calculating" Life is hardly long enough to waste time for an old codger to talk, so I'd prefer to get down to business. that is all

[Illven]

Fergin chuckles.

Yes, yes. We will go far together. Payment will be 500 gold each upon your return, and confirmation of the delivery. If you die you forfeit your share. As for dangers, I don't expect you'll fight more then typical bandits, though there is always the possibility of more.

[jaydubs]

"I'd like you to tell us a little more about the logistics of the mission.

Are we escorting the caravans both there and back, or in one direction only?

How many days is the total expected journey based on the speed of your caravans?

Will your caravans also provide food and water for us and our animals, or is that something we will need to arrange for ourselves?

Finally, what products are we tasked with protecting? Different items call for different types of care, after all."

[holydeg]

Dell pauses for a moment to give consideration. "The pay certainly seems good. Very well, I accept! Where shall we meet the wagons, and when do we leave?

[Cogsrow]

"she blinks" a large amount of money to move goods. What are the dangers we can expect?

[WesleyB]

"Most likely bandits, competitors, monsters and beasts and potential internal conflict from Sir Goldhand's retinue as it currently stands, as well as the possibility of enemies of Pelor not wishing resources to reach the Holy City. I would be willing to bet a few coins that the pay will reflect a certain anonymity in regards to the specifics of the cargo's contents, as well as the expediency of our journey given our arrival at one time today and Sir Goldhand meeting us personally, when a Servant would have sufficed. As far as my participation goes I am interested in the opportunities it will lead to. So on that basis I am in." Throughout the statement Kemsey's demeanor changes very little, but does offer a bowed head to Sir Goldhand whenever he mentions him by name.

[Rei of Hope]

*The lady in armor never dismounts as she listens off to the side. The constant mention of pay does not intrest her. She sits ready to go when everyone else is.*

[jaydubs]

As the chatter starts to pick up, Joriah takes a few steps back and pulls a coil of measuring tape from his pack. He drops one end to the ground, holding the other end of the loop in the air at head level.

From a few feet behind and doing his best not to disturb anyone, he begins to measure the heights of each member of the party, recording the results in his book.

[Cogsrow]

"when he goes to measure the woman in the mask the armored man behind her reaches to stop you"

Crunch
Grapple check [roll0]

[jaydubs]

Joriah tilts his head to the side in bemusement and defers to the silent guardian. "No point in pressing matters," he murmurs to himself as he walks on to the next person.

[WesleyB]

When it's Kemsey's turn to be measured he turns. "I wont require a tailor at this point thank you, and memorizing the specifics of my dimensions will be of no use to you either as they wont remain exact."

[holydeg]

Dell poses for his measurement, back straight, hands folded on his chest, a bemused smile on his face. "It must be more dangerous than we thought if we are bringing an undertaker with us!"

[Cogsrow]

"orianna looks at the odd man" He is not a fan of letting people near me if I dont' consent it

[Gnomes2169]

"Heh, will you be weighing us and drawing pictures as well?" Chess asked, standing straight when the druid came to him. The crystalline being is just barely taller than 6'10 and seemed to be chuckling... though at this point someone was close enough to notice that Chess as no mouth. Anywhere.

[jaydubs]

In response to Kemsey:

Joriah's jaw drops a little at Kemsey's reponse. "Fascinating...," he says to himself, as he writes furiously in his notebook.

In response to Dell:

Joriah smiles broadly at Dell's joke. "Quite the opposite, actually. I think my job on this journey is to keep you all alive." He takes advantage of the willingness of this subject, recording shoulder breadth as well as height.

"I really do appreciate the cooperation though. If ever you need my help with something, let me know." He says meaningfully, before moving on.

In response to Chess:

Being only 5'9" in comparison, Joriah reaches arm over head to get the height of Chess. "Unfortunately, I could think of no reliable way to bring a weighing scale with me," he says in all seriousness.

"As for the pictures, I am no artist. But... photographic memory," he chimes, tapping the side of his head. "Very useful for this kind of work."

In response to Orianna:

He turns back toward Orianna. "Apologies miss. I meant no harm. Would you consent to a measurement?" he asks, holding up the roll of notched cloth.

[Cogsrow]

"she looks at him" I'd rather not

[Ravena]

Donna raises an eyebrow as the stranger starts to measure her. "What do you think your doing?" She raises her eyebrow stepping back slightly.

[jaydubs]

Joriah shrugs towards Orianna. "That's a shame. But to each their own I suppose."

He turns back again to the woman in front of him, Donna. "Young miss, I am simply taking the opportunity to collect some data - for a project of mine. Your height is what I am after, and whatever other measurements you would be willing to share."

[Cogsrow]

"orianna looks at him" what kind of experiment?

[jaydubs]

"Well, it's not really an experiment. It's more of a... study; a study on behavior to be specific," he replies.

"You'd probably find it boring to be honest."

[Cogsrow]

In my experience that is what people say when they don't really know what they are doing

[jaydubs]

"Now, now. No need to resort to reverse psychology if you're simply curious," he smiles.

"I am studying alignment. Good and evil, order and chaos. What causes a person to be one way or another, and how alignment influences behavior. The measurements are to see if I can find a link between body and spirit."

"And I find it is when life and death are in the balance that people are truest to themselves. Hence the adventuring."

[Cogsrow]

Could it be possible there simply is no correlation? that beings are simply born evil and are that way from the very moment their soul is forged?

[Gnomes2169]

Chess almost laughed at that. ""Some beings are just born evil? Why my word you are so very, very cynical, aren't you oh mysterious masked one? No, no, trust me on this... in all my travels, no mortals born on this plane at the very least are born good or evil unless their ancestry is from a different plane. No, either people, through their lives, choose who they are by their actions and beliefs, or an outside force pushes them along a certain path if they are weak and cannot decide on their own." The arcanite said, joining the discussion. "Though what do I know? The world is young, its people are just starting to walk about on their own two feet, and things can always change. Thirty years is such a very short life time, after all." And right there, Chess had made a point to tell them he was among the eldest of creatures of this world... well, he had done so in a manner that most people might not notice.

"Anyway, I agree that the pay is good for the job. Very, very good. Almost too good... but that's just the pessimist in me talking. The realist too, though that one only whispers that it will be harder than you are letting on. I believe that this venture will be... exciting, to say the least, and you have successfully piqued my curiosity." The Arcanite said, only now deciding to include his employer in his telepathic messages. No reason to bore the man with philosophy, right? "I shall be ready to leave when the right time comes." And be ready to investigate this strange man in full upon their return... After all, who pays 500 gold for a two week trip, maximum? No, something strange was going on here, and Chess was curious as to what that was...

[jaydubs]

Huh. It seems I'll have some philosophical companions on a journey for once, Joriah thought to himself.

"The more we know the better we can do our jobs," Joriah says in Fergin's direction. "But I agree with the others. If it is secrecy you are paying for, 500 gold is enough compensation for it. I will do what I can to see your cargo to its destination."

[Cogsrow]

call me whatever you want but some things are just born evil and there's nothing that can be done but removing them from the world

[WesleyB]

"I think you have just hired yourself a group Sir Goldhand, albeit an eclectic one. If we are not required immediately I am going to eat and prepare what provisions might be required. Is there a time we should meet again Sir Goldhand? And would those of you that are joining the expedition like to join me in a meal?"

[Gnomes2169]

"I don't eat, but I would be willing to join the meal time none the less." Oh, but learning to deal with boredom early was going to be painful, if necessary.

[jaydubs]

"Some food would be excellent. And perhaps some drink as well. I don't expect there will be much merry-making once the mission starts."

[Illven]

Fergin Goldhand chuckles

Heh. So it would seem. The cart leaves tomorrow at sunrise. He says handing a note to Orianna.

A map of the area may also help. He says giving Kornari presumably a map of the area.

There will be one town you'll stop at along the way but besides that you'll want to think about buying food, if you don't have it already.

To Cosgrow

Is it a note telling the group to meet the wagons sunrise tomorrow, at the east exit to town.



To Rei of hope

Here is the picture of the map
http://imageshack.us/scaled/medium/42/66qb.png (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/42/66qb.png/)



Is there anything anyone else would like to do?

[Cogsrow]

"Orianna hands the note off to Chess and wanders off with her companion to prepare"

[holydeg]

Nodding towards his new companions, the wizard says, "I'm going to grab some more supplies. I'll meet you at the tavern shortly"

[Illven]

To Gnomes2169

Is it a note telling the group to meet the wagons sunrise tomorrow, at the east exit to town.

[Gnomes2169]

... Why not just tell everyone out loud? Oh well, if anyone thought this was important enough to not vocalize it, then it was a good thing they gave the information to the telepath. Chess told the members of the party (And only the members of the party), "We'll be meeting up with the caravan wagons tomorrow on the east side of town." Don't be late anyone...

[Rei of Hope]

*She looks at the man coming towards her with the tap and gets down from her horse. She does not remove her helm as he measures. When he finishes, she nods to him and turns to stroke the mane of warhorse. She listens to everyone still not making a move until finally she steps forward taking the document from her new employer. She removes her helm revealing dark charcoal hair and deep blue eyes. Her face young and appealing to most human eyes bows slightly.* Thank you sir for the opportunity for exploration.

[Ravena]

Donna nods her head and goes outside, once there a small hummingbird buzzed near her person, quickly bobbing back and forth as they do, but never leaving her side. "I guess I will see you all tomorrow." She said in a flirtatious tone of voice and added a little wave. She left to per pair any more supplies that she would need. Not caring that it had just occurred to her that she had not given any of them her name. Oh well, there was always time in the future.

[jaydubs]

"I need to secure lodging for myself and stabling for my horse, but I will head to the tavern after that. I will meet the rest of you by the caravan tomorrow."

Joriah exits the scene atop a mahogany mare, dog in tow. He picks up a few extra supplies, along with securing room and board before heading to the tavern for a meal and drink.

Purchases:
2 waterskins - 2gp
Inn, common - 5sp
Stabling - 5sp
2 meals (dogs can eat human food) and 2 ales (but no hooch for pooch) - 6sp

[holydeg]

Dell attempts to find a shop that sells food rations.


[roll0]

[Illven]

Those purchases check out.



You manage to find several shops that sell food.

[holydeg]

Dell purchases another eight days worth of rations, and then goes to join the others for the drink.

Sheet has been updated to reflect the purchase.

[jaydubs]

When Dell arrives, Joriah is already at the tavern trying to ingratiate himself with the locals. He is midway through a story about his first stay in a city.

"You see, where I'm from, it is practically a household duty to offer food and shelter to any traveler that comes your way. And in exchange, we get to hear stories of the world at large. So naturally, I told the woman 'I am looking for a warm bed for the night. And in exchange, I offer the pleasure of my company.'

Well, she stared at me a moment, and then her face lit up as red as a beet. She suddenly had a foot long salami link in her hand, and started striking me with it while calling me... what were her words... 'an impertinent scoundrel.'

Totally confused, I started asking if it was customary in these lands to pay for a night of comfort. At which point of course, she became even more furious, and started calling for the guards. Luckily for me, George turned out to be much more understanding of cultural differences, and explained to me how travelers usually find a place to stay in cities.

And that's how I learned about inns!"

Diplomacy roll:
[roll0]

[Illven]

Jaydubs

The inn patrons are now friendly to you.


The next morning as you move towards the wagons, you notice that they are being searched by the guards.

[Cogsrow]

"Orianna blinks as she sees the wagons being searched and she adjusts her mask and orders her skeleton to stay behind as she walks up to them" Excuse me sir, what seems to be the issue? "she asks the guard that looks to be in charge"

[Illven]

The guard looks at Orianna Probably nothing, we've had a-lot of recent murders, so we're sealing off the city the best we can. Which involves checking anyone that leaves for illusions, and searching wagons for stowaways.

[Cogsrow]

"she raises an eyebrow" well be quick we have a tight schedule to keep "she looks at the sun" granted it seems my compatriots are late

[Illven]

Would you be willing to take off your mask and submit to a detect magic, miss? The guard asks calling over a priest.

[Cogsrow]

"she sighs taking her mask off and pulling back her hood showing a woman with very pale skin and short pixie cut white hair and emerald green eyes that was rather nice looking if a bit thin" Sure go ahead, I don't have anything to hide

[Rei of Hope]

*The small girl in the same armor in the same armor as the day before rides up in a strong gallop. She pulls back the reins slowing the horse to a stop. She dismounts quickly and strides to the now unmasked woman pointing to the guards searching the wagon.* Excuse me
ma'am. Could you explain why these agents of authority are rummaging through a wagon they have no business rifling through? *Her helmet removed, her icy eyes glare at the guards.*

[Cogsrow]

"once the guards finish she puts her mask back on and pulls her hood over her head" there were murders they are searching for a stowaway trying to escape

[Rei of Hope]

*Her voice now directed at the guards.* We could of checked for you seeing how this cart does not belong to any of you. Last time I checked I did have a mind well enough to inspect wagon for a stow away.

[holydeg]

Dell walks up, a smile on his face, takes in the scene, and says "Gentlemen, may we help you find something?"

I've updated my spells prepared list for the new day. Mythweaver is acting up, so in case it doesn't update they are:
Spells Prepared:
0-Detect Magic, Read Magic, Ghost Sound, Message, Prestidigitation
1-Obscuring Mist, Grease, Silent Image, Shield
2-Glitterdust, Hypnotic Pattern, Invisibility

[Gnomes2169]

Meanwhile, Chess had been waiting in the caravan for a while. In fact, it was standing in rather plain sight in one of the carts... frozen. Like a statue. Now, Chess hadn't been able to find a stump to make this even better, but it was sitting in a "the thinker" pose in the middle of the cart, well away from whatever merchandise nearby (no crushing the product today!) and it watched everyone. Because why not?

[jaydubs]

Joriah

The man arrives on horseback, weary from a long night. This might be trouble, but it will be interesting to see how they handle it, he thinks to himself as he watches Orianna, Dell, and the nameless woman converse with the guards. And there's nothing even wrong with that girl. I wonder why she wears a mask then...

He takes a moment to focus his mind. Hey Chess, can you hear me or does that power only work one way? Have the guards been looking for anything in particular?

[Cogsrow]

"orianna looks at the girl challenging the guards, not how she would of handled it but meh, she finishes fitting the mask to her face and pulling the hood up until she realized chess was in the wagon oh dear this would not end well"

[Gnomes2169]

"It does work both ways, and let's see if I can recall what they were looking for besides people..." Chess said, remaining still and still pretending to be a lifeless magic rock instead of a living magic rock*.

[roll0] Disguise check

[roll1] Int check to remember and figure out what these guys might be looking for (besides people) :smalltongue:

[Illven]

The man in charge looks at the small girl as his two men (Neither of which are the priest) search the wagons.

I'm sorry miss, I would be fired from my job if I allowed random people to search possible escape means for my men. He says in a clearly annoyed tone.


Both Guards see through your disguise. The older one, looks at the younger one.

Get the captain. We have ourselves a shapeshifter. And the younger one runs off.

The older one pulls out a set of manacles.

You are under arrest for assault, attempted murder, and murder. Let me ut these on, spellcaster. It'll be easier for all of us.

[Cogsrow]

"orianna raises an eyebrow behind her mask and looks at chess" figures you can't blood trust non humans "averts her gaze" you belong in a dungeon

[Gnomes2169]

Chess straightened up and mentally sighed. Bloody fools and incompetents, if there was a stowaway then it would not be him... "Two things, gentlemen, one, I'm not exactly a shape shifter. I am an archivist, and..." He opened up his prayer book for them to the pages that contained all of his spells, "If your priest would read this, he would find no magic within that could possibly be used to alter my appearance. In fact, I lack any illusory spell at all, at the moment. Thing number two... do those shackles cancel out or negate magic? If so, then they either will not remain attached or they will slowly destroy me. This is not a disguise, gentlemen, this is me being who I usually am, and I am made out of magic."[b] After thinking about it for a second, Chess added, [B]"Oh, thing number three I suppose... Those things that you accused me of? None of those actually apply to me. I'm a historian, it is not in my nature to attack, harm or kill. But, if you really must take me away from this job that I just acquired, then I suppose I shall be off with you for questioning, imprisonment and other such things, while your real target gleefully skips off into the sunset as part of this caravan."

After sending that message to everyone in the vicinity and giving Orianna a cool, contemptuous glance, Chess set the open prayer book down, folded its hands behind its back and then waited.

[roll0] Diplomacy check

[Illven]

It's not anti-magic manacles. We can't afford them. He replies bitterly, as he calls the priest.

The priest spends a couple of minutes leafing through your book.

I can't identify 7 of the spells in this book. Archivist.

[Gnomes2169]

Chess seemed... well, actually rather shocked once the priest let that out. "You... can't identify the written version of some of the simplest of divine magics?" The arcanite asked, head tilting slightly. "I know that anyone with the title of cleric could easily cast them, in fact, if they couldn't then they wouldn't be a cleric! I haven't had time or resources to research anything more advanced." He told the priest, head tilted slightly. Was this priest for real? No, scratch that. He was just a product of his flawed society... which didn't teach these things. Because their society was dumb, and broken. Incompetent fleshy things...

[Illven]

The priest gives you a glare. Yeah, you're under arrest. She attempts to slap the manacles on your wrists. Do you do anything?

[Gnomes2169]

One of Chess's wrists was gotten relatively easily, though the other would be cuffable too in a short while, it's just that the Arcanite had it tilted up at the elbow and was holding one crystalline finger up as well. "Ah, on what charges?" It asked, eyes glowing slightly in amusement. "I know that you can figure out that I simply lack the resources to be the man you are looking for, and I am certain it is not illegal to insult an officer of the law. Especially when you are insulting yourself at the same time." Among Chess's race, your worth was deemed by your magical abilities... and despite being one of the first Arcanite, Chess was one of the weakest in terms of magic. So having to admit to having so few resources was actually a bit... painful. Almost a walk of shame, really. "And again, I am not who you are looking for, officer. I can assure you of that." And with that, it lowered its unshackled arm and held it beside the already shackled wrist. And Chess was... well... rather compliant, actually. "When you study my prayer book for more than a few short minutes and figure that out, then I will be leaving to find this caravan and maybe I'll find your killer myself. Who knows? He could be sneaking in right now while your back is turned." Chess mused, shrugging slightly. "Oh, and I shall expect an apology for this undeserved treatment... though we can come to that later, I suppose."

[Cogsrow]

"orianna holds back a giggle wow this was amazing, she smirks behind her mask and just goes to the wagons and checks to see if everything is ready to go her black cloak and leather armor seeming to absorb the light making her stand out constantly"

[Rei of Hope]

Your job is protect the people you serve without violating their rights. I understand a murderer is on the lose, but this guy is not him. He is with us, and you will release him. Taking a man away from his desired duties and income is a crime that I will not let stand.

[jaydubs]

Joriah

This is not good, Joriah thought to himself. I need to let Fergin know about this, but I don't want to leave this to chance or pass up the research opportunity.

Joriah quickly writes onto a page of his book, before tearing it out and folding it like a letter. He then begins to look around to look for someone suitable to be a messenger.

Intent:

Joriah is looking for someone who can deliver an urgent letter to Fergin Goldhand. He is willing to pay, and will give instructions that Fergin will likely pay the messenger on receipt as well. And he will give instructions on how to contact Fergin.

Letter content:

"This is Joriah Jabberlane, the druid hired to escort your caravan this morning. There is an incident occurring with the guards at the gate. They seem to be intent on arresting Chess, the crystalline archivist, on suspicion of multiple murders in town.

Please come or send a representative to the gate as soon as possible. We need to know whether to proceed with the mission or to wait for the situation to be resolved."

[Illven]

One of Chess's wrists was gotten relatively easily, though the other would be cuffable too in a short while, it's just that the Arcanite had it tilted up at the elbow and was holding one crystalline finger up as well. "Ah, on what charges?" It asked, eyes glowing slightly in amusement. "I know that you can figure out that I simply lack the resources to be the man you are looking for, and I am certain it is not illegal to insult an officer of the law. Especially when you are insulting yourself at the same time." Among Chess's race, your worth was deemed by your magical abilities... and despite being one of the first Arcanite, Chess was one of the weakest in terms of magic. So having to admit to having so few resources was actually a bit... painful. Almost a walk of shame, really. "And again, I am not who you are looking for, officer. I can assure you of that." And with that, it lowered its unshackled arm and held it beside the already shackled wrist. And Chess was... well... rather compliant, actually. "When you study my prayer book for more than a few short minutes and figure that out, then I will be leaving to find this caravan and maybe I'll find your killer myself. Who knows? He could be sneaking in right now while your back is turned." Chess mused, shrugging slightly. "Oh, and I shall expect an apology for this undeserved treatment... though we can come to that later, I suppose."

Chess is escorted out of the wagon, by the priest and a guard.


"orianna holds back a giggle wow this was amazing, she smirks behind her mask and just goes to the wagons and checks to see if everything is ready to go her black cloak and leather armor seeming to absorb the light making her stand out constantly"

One of the guards put a arm on Orianna's shoulder.

Sorry, miss. You can't go in yet, we're not done with the search he could have accomplices


Your job is protect the people you serve without violating their rights. I understand a murderer is on the lose, but this guy is not him. He is with us, and you will release him. Taking a man away from his desired duties and income is a crime that I will not let stand.

The captain walks up to you.

Listen, I'm not sure you understand how a murder investigation works. First we seal off the city, so that the murderer can't escape. Now Fergin knows the right people to talk to, and so his business continues without being stopped. But we are sure as hell going to check each wagon for stowaways. And look what we found. A stowaway. He will be detained until such a time as we are sure he is not a murder. Now let us continue our jobs, or you will be arrested also.


Joriah

This is not good, Joriah thought to himself. I need to let Fergin know about this, but I don't want to leave this to chance or pass up the research opportunity.

Joriah quickly writes onto a page of his book, before tearing it out and folding it like a letter. He then begins to look around to look for someone suitable to be a messenger.

Intent:

Joriah is looking for someone who can deliver an urgent letter to Fergin Goldhand. He is willing to pay, and will give instructions that Fergin will likely pay the messenger on receipt as well. And he will give instructions on how to contact Fergin.

Letter content:

"This is Joriah Jabberlane, the druid hired to escort your caravan this morning. There is an incident occurring with the guards at the gate. They seem to be intent on arresting Chess, the crystalline archivist, on suspicion of multiple murders in town.

Please come or send a representative to the gate as soon as possible. We need to know whether to proceed with the mission or to wait for the situation to be resolved."


Please make a Search, Spot, or Gather information check.

[Ravena]

Donna sighs, pinching the bridge of her nose. She had remained quite until now but this. "Look, we're on a tight schedule and he's with us. Can you please just let him go so we may be on our way?"

[jaydubs]

Joriah continues to look for a messenger as Chess is lead out of the wagon.

[roll0]

[Rei of Hope]

*She removes her helmet showing her glare more clearly. She nods to Donna thankful for the assistance. She looks back at the guard that has approached her.* You assume too much. I am new to this area, but I am not new to this world. Now I am saying this again, he is not a stow away. He is a companion. Do not restrict this man's rights any further.

[Illven]

You don't see anyone that would seem to be willing.


The captain looks at the two girls.

You are admitting that you are with this man? He asks.

[Gnomes2169]

"If it does make you feel any better, I am contracted to work on the caravan guard and Fergin could vouch for me... and that is how I know these fine ladies as well. Though they really don't need to stand up for me right now, since it would take what, one, maybe two hours for my prayer book to be properly deciphered and then I'll be on my way to catch up with them, and an individual on foot is always faster than a caravan." Feeling like it needed to be said, Chess followed up with, "And I was in the wagon pretending to be a statue because that is what I do when I contemplate the universe... or at least, the pose is. And I only do that when I'm bored in the middle of the night and no one is awake or around, since really, I don't sleep all that much. I didn't move once your investigation started so that I wouldn't startle you, you see, and you chaps just looked like you were having so much fun..." Throughout that, there was little to no emotion besides maybe some slight annoyance at the beginning and some resignation. No sarcasm either, though one might think it would be implied. It seemed that the Arcanite was telling the truth. "Oh, my satchel is under the tarp to the left, if you could take that with us, please. It has my notes on the places I've been and customs I've observed, and I would very much hate to lose those. As well, it has a letter from Fergin himself telling us when and where to meet so that we will arrive at the caravan on time and be able to move. Second inner pocket on the left."


To Donna and Kornari, Chess sent the private message, "Shut up and let the fools posture and pretend that they have a small victory here. I'll be out and following you after a short delay, I know the pattern by now..." Funny enough, this exact situation (nix the being part of the caravan guard part) had happened to Chess before, though it had been an acusation of 'purposefully frightening small children by pretending to be scenic landscaping and then moving' (the judge had laughed him out of court) and not 'murder, assault and battery'. Okay, maybe not the EXACT situation, but Chess knew what would go on, for the most part. Also, I would ratehr not delay the caravan. One, maybe two guards missing and it will likely move on. If you two continue to object and get taken in with me, then it will be delayed.. and we will likely have problems with Fergin and be paid less. So just shush.

[jaydubs]

Joriah

The man attempted to focus his mind again. Chess. If you think you have the situation handled, I will leave it entirely to you. It is your own life after all. But if you want us to try to contact Fergin before leaving, let me know. An hour or two will make little difference in a multi-day journey.

[Gnomes2169]

"Contact Fergin if you can, but three hours will be all it takes to clear this up, if this priest has any skills whatsoever... which is why I want you to contact Fergin, since apparently she can't identify simple divine spells." Chess sent back, and then after considering for a moment, also sent, "And try to relax a little more and yell less when doing this, I can hear you just fine as long as you are open. You don't have to throw your thoughts at me unless we are around a mind reader and you want to send a private message."

[holydeg]

Dell shrugs and finds a seat to wait for the caravan to be ready to roll out.

[jaydubs]

"I am going to inform Fergin of the situation. If any of you would also like a word with him, feel free to accompany me. This should not take long, so do not leave until I return." Joriah rides to find their employer, with or without company.

[Rei of Hope]

*She grinds her teeth and looking at Chess steps back a slight tremble starting to show itself on her small frame. Her hands are visibly shaking as she strokes the dark mane of her hourse glaring at the guard.* Proceed with your...job.

[Cogsrow]

"Orianna rolls on the balls of her feet. today was a good day. She looks at the guard" is it okay if I place my things in the cart? I left them in my room cause I didn't know how long before we left or would that be tampering with the crime scene?

[Ravena]

Donna sighed. "Sure whatever, have fun for all I care." She placed her attention to her bird fluttering around her head, more annoyed that this would put a slight snag on the time.

[WesleyB]

As was often the way in taverns as the meal and alcohol is consumed Kemsey joins in the joviality, a little too much. And handling his booze is not something Kemsey is known for. Awakening the next morning he heads out to meet the caravan, his head still a little sore from the aforementioned drinking. Arriving only a few minutes behind schedule there seems to be an abundance of activity at the caravan so a few minutes lost wont harm the time-frame.

Or that is what he thought to himself before the situation expanded to the point where the guard intervened to take one of his company away. And the talk of Murder catches his curiosity but things with his own group are progressing at a pace he is not comfortable leaving as it is. Maybe if he hadn't stayed for that last round of drinks he would have been here on time to try and talk around the guards... Too late for that now.

Waiting for an easy point at which to speak to those of his group within earshot Kemsey gives his two coppers worth. "It's likely Sir Goldhand will wish to decide on our next move, given this implication may affect both his temperament and his reputation, depending on the outcome. And I can understand how the guard may be cautious of a body like Chess's as it's also likely they have not encountered one before. It is also understandable that they would wish to search the wagons given it would be an easy way for a criminal to escape unseen... Not the smartest way, but in the heat of the moment I could see it happening. And I'll join you Joriah."

[Illven]

At Gnomes2169

You are eventually taken to the jail, and put into a cell. What do you do?


Everyone else

Eventually the guards finish their search, and have given you permission to leave. What do you do?

[WesleyB]

Before temporarily parting ways with Joriah to meet with Sir Goldhand, Kemsey comments to those that are waiting with the caravan. "Might be an idea to watch the guardsman, just to ensure they don't take any souvenirs with them from the search. I'm sure Sir Goldhand would be upset if an item that was supposed to reach the Holy City were to be missing when we got there. It may also be prudent to have the caravan leader, or Sir Goldhand himself, check the inventory before we leave just in case the guilty party of these murders did in fact hide here, even if only for a little while."

At which point Kemsey will leave with Joriah to meet with Sir Goldhand and inform him of the current situation as well as the request to attend the scene to ensure everything is as it should be.

[Gnomes2169]

Seriously? Even after they found the letter they were still going to lock Chess up as a stow away? What was wrong with these people? Ah well, Chess said it would wait, and so it would wait, and be nice and silent while doing so. There was no point to them doing this, and Chess would not give them reason to keep it there longer.

[jaydubs]

Similar to Kemsey, except Joriah will also ask if Fergin knows anything about these murders. When they started, who was killed, how they were killed, etc. Also, would he like the caravan to wait or depart?

[holydeg]

Dell puts his pack in one of the wagons, and climbs in to wait for the others to get back from visiting Sir Goldhand.

[Cogsrow]

"Orianna leaves for a bit and comes back with a very heavy looking pack and sets it into the wagon with a sigh rubbing her back, she climbs in where there was room and just relaxes"

[Ravena]

"This is an annoying waste of time." She huffs, crossing her arms and leaning against the wagon. How long would it take for them to get back, as well as the crystal man... thing...

[Cogsrow]

We could just leave him and split the gold between us

[Illven]

Within a half an hour a Elven priestess of Pelor comes into the jail. Unlocking the door you she says

My apologies for the situation, the recent murders have gotten everyone on edge. I've looked through your prayerbook and found nothing wrong with it. Well besides the protection from good spell you have here. She says disapprovingly.

If you can submit to a body search so that I can make sure you don't have any other prayerbooks on you, we can let you go free. I think it's unnecessary, but the captain insists.




After speaking to a few servants, and then telling the surprised Fergin your story he starts speaking.

That... is shocking. Why was Chess in the wagon?Hmmmm. He's an Archivist. Perhaps he thinks to pilfer some of the works going to Pelor's holy city,and take them to add to his collection.

He muses for a moment, then spends a few minutes scribbling on two pieces of paper.

These are itemized lists of what the temple of Pelor should receive. In two columns one important, and the other less so. Give these to the cleric that'll accept your delivery. She'll send to me, if anything is missing.

What do you do?



Nothing of note has happened to you, yet.

[jaydubs]

"I don't know why he was in the wagon, but I didn't notice him taking anything. Then again, I wasn't there until this morning. Does this mean you want us to proceed without him?" Joriah takes a moment to look over the list before handing it over to Kemsey. (Take 10 on autohypnosis to memorize.)

"And do you happen to have a map to the Holy City I could take a look at as well? I know you passed out some directions, but Chess ended up with one of them, and I don't know when or if he'll be joining us."

Joriah will memorize the map as well if one is available, before heading back to the wagon.

[Illven]

"I don't know why he was in the wagon, but I didn't notice him taking anything. Then again, I wasn't there until this morning. Does this mean you want us to proceed without him?" Joriah takes a moment to look over the list before handing it over to Kemsey. (Take 10 on autohypnosis to memorize.)

"And do you happen to have a map to the Holy City I could take a look at as well? I know you passed out some directions, but Chess ended up with one of them, and I don't know when or if he'll be joining us."

Joriah will memorize the map as well if one is available, before heading back to the wagon.


Sorry for being unclear, there are two lists, so are you giving your copy to Kemsey?

[jaydubs]

Assuming Kemsey didn't stop me, I'd ask to see both lists to memorize the whole thing. If they are simply two copies of the same list, I would keep one. But if they are two different lists, I would give my copy to Kemsey since I didn't need it.

[Illven]

Assuming Kemsey didn't stop me, I'd ask to see both lists to memorize the whole thing. If they are simply two copies of the same list, I would keep one. But if they are two different lists, I would give my copy to Kemsey since I didn't need it.


They are the same list.

[Gnomes2169]

The already stripped down* genderless statue stood up and spread its arms out, spinning slowly in a circle for her. "You believe I could have another prayer book on me?" Chess asked, tilting its head curiously and coming to face her again. "Do you think I'm honestly that good at hiding things?"

((*Note, Chess has literally no clothing besides its armor, which would have been confiscated, so... :smalltongue:))

[Illven]

The cleric and the captain let you go, and give you your stuff back. What do you do?

[Cogsrow]

"Orianna shrugs, apparently no one was listening. She walks off and walks back with a backpack that oddly had a full set of half-plate sticking out the top and she sets it in the cart. her guardian was nowhere to be found as she climbs into the back and lays down her hood over her eyes"

[jaydubs]

On his return, Joriah addresses the group. "We spoke with Fergin, and he doesn't really know what to make of it. He was kind of concerned about why Chess was in the wagon, implying he might have took something, but nothing beyond that. Fergin also gave us these lists to present to the temple of Pelor when we arrive, so that they know if anything is missing." He holds out an inventory list to anyone who is interested in looking at it.

"Have any of you heard back from Chess or the guards? Or should we proceed without him given the circumstances?"

For the record, what exactly is on the inventory list?

[WesleyB]

Checking over his list as well as the one handed to him Kemsey compares the two and if the list is not required he will place both in an a pocket on the inside of his shirt. "It is my understanding that Chess does not require as much rest as the rest of us flesh and blood types and he also seems to be the type that spends a lot of time thinking, so it could be he was simply waiting. It could also be as you say but in any case the truth will come to pass.

If you are confident enough that these lists can be checked by us." Gesturing to himself and his companion. Then that will put my mind at ease and we will endevour to travel without any more delay than is nessessary. I must also agree with Joriah's line regarding what to do regarding Chess."

---

ooc - If there is no real options regarding Chess for now the Kemsey will leave with Joriah to meet with the group again. But depending on what Sir Goldhand might suggest that action may change.

[Gnomes2169]

Chess took another ten minutes after being let out to put on its armor, adjust its things and go on to the place were the caravan had been and hopefully still was. It had been almost forty minutes since Chess was taken, but things had just started happening and the talk with Fergin should have taken some time, so the caravan should still be there... If it wasn't, then it had just started to move out, so Chess should be able to catch up.

[jaydubs]

On Chess's timely return. "Ah, that's a relief. They let you go. Good to know you haven't been murdering the townsfolk. On that note, perhaps we should be off before someone else gets arrested."

Joriah mounts his horse, and is ready to depart whenever.

[Gnomes2169]

"Perhaps we should, and I did tell you all that I wasn't the one they were looking for." Chess told him, waving the words off for a second or two. "Now then, I would like to go, yes."

"Also, just an idle question, would you like to start a betting pool on what we are transporting? I'm going to go with 'something very, very illegal.' After all, why else are we being paid so much? The rout should be relatively safe, and I'm guessing it's for our silence..." Chess sent as a private message, walking to the side of a wagon. Chess didn't have a horse, it seems, so instead the arcanite would walk beside or ride in the cart.

[jaydubs]

Ah, it probably wouldn't be a very fair bet, considering that Fergin gave me an inventory list. When I told him about your arrest, he thought perhaps you were there to steal his merchandise, being an Archivist and all. Still, I haven't actually checked the wagon personally, so we may be delivering something completely different.

[Gnomes2169]

"Unfair advantage indeed." Chess chuckled, "Though honestly, you could probably hide anything in those items on the list... let me take a look at it later, see if I can figure out what could be hidden in those if there is anything hiding at all. I'll pose the question on our return, and see if I can accurately guess anything hidden, if anything is hidden at all." It was always Chess's opinion that a logical puzzle like the one presented to them would be a fun, exciting thing to solve, as long as the merchandise made it to the proper hands and everyone understood it was just a fun game. Nothing beyond that.

[jaydubs]

So yesterday, you mentioned an interest in learning druidic magics. How would I help you with that? You should know I have no capacity for creating scrolls myself.

[Gnomes2169]

"Hmmm, unfortunate. I will need scrolls when you can start to make them. Until then, just talk to me about the spells you can use and I'll try to make you a wish list for when you get the capacity."

[jaydubs]

Do you not have the talent for writing magic into words? I have worked with men in the past to do the same, supplying the magic for those that can press it into ink.

[Gnomes2169]

"I do, but scribing such scrolls requires time and personal experiences that I do not have right now, so regardless we shall need to wait until a later date... and I would like to keep as many experiences as I can at the moment. I get the feeling that as of now I am among the weaker members of the party, and that is most troublesome to me."

[Illven]

So..... is everyone back at the wagons?

[Gnomes2169]

Chess has been at the wagons for the past 8 or so posts, so I'ma say I'm there, yes. :smalltongue:

[jaydubs]

Joriah is there as well, staring blankly into the distance, but actually having a conversation.

[Cogsrow]

"orianna snored softly in her napping spot in the caravan mask still on her face and hood drawn forward"

[Gnomes2169]

Chess, still rather annoyed, decided to send Orianna a very... special message. Not words, no, that would be too simple. Instead it sent a very simple image. A memory really, from a much more unfortunate member of Chess's race of a dragon swooping down and clamping its jaws down on the poor adventurer's body before fire shot into their face. Of course, since this was a memory, this was all from the perspective of that poor and very, very dead adventurer, and it would be very, very interesting to see how the masked girl reacted to this... 'nightmare'.

To the others, Chess called, "Is everyone ready to move?" That message went out at the same time as his private sending to Orianna.

[Cogsrow]

"Orianna rolls over and the mask falls off revealing a small smile as she shudders a bit her boots flexing a bit as her toes move"

[Gnomes2169]

... Alright, an odd reaction to that. Chess would be sure to watch this... sociopath far, far more closely in the future.

"Perhaps the murderer did join the caravan." Chess sent, stare lingering on Orianna for a moment before looking back to the road. "Be sure to watch her, I suspect she is a very, very dangerous individual."

[Ravena]

Donna nods her head. "Ready as ever~" She smiles and sits on the edge of the caravan, legs crossed and humming bird buzzing around her head.

[Cogsrow]

"orianna sits up yawning and looks at chess' Oh you're back

[Gnomes2169]

"You sound surprised." Chess sent back, tilting its head. "I did say that I would be back after a short delay, did I not?"

[Cogsrow]

"orianna shrugs" Never know with backwaters like this place out by the prismatic sea, sometimes the law has hiccups "she lays back relaxing" On a mor efun note I think we're allowed to leave now, though honestly did you have ot create such a commotion and slow us down? we could of left a while ago if you hadn't got caught

[Gnomes2169]

"Is it my fault that I came early and that the guards here are idiots?" Chess asked, being careful to exclude all guards in range. "I was just laying back and contemplating everything when those guards jostled me around and demanded I go back with them to prison. It's their fault for bothering me."

[Cogsrow]

"she sighs" of course someone of your kind wouldn't understand. To them you were masqueradeing as a statue to escape. it's actually a pretty clever plan in all honesty. Now as for the whole you don't have them in your prayer book, there are casters that don't need a book and some carry books around to make you think they do.

[jaydubs]

Joriah grins, and puts his hands up as if to calm them. "Now, now. We should think on the bright side of things. Maybe there is some wise parable to come out of this mess. We can call it 'The Innocent Man and the Wagon.' The lesson is that 'Even innocent men should not hide their affairs, lest they gain the suspicion of their neighbors.'"

[Cogsrow]

I disagree, hide everything. Everyone is looking for their angle and are ready to stab you in the back. Best you an do is anticipate it and prepare and if necessary stab first "she reaches into her pack and takes out a cookie and nibbles on it sipping from her waterskin"

[Gnomes2169]

"Ah, but there is a problem with that theory. If I were trying to stow away disguised as a statue, I would not have also gotten a letter that states that I am part of the guard force and signed a contract as a guard. I would have covered myself with one of the tarps back there instead of moving them to the side and had myself a nice nap, while also not reacting to anything they said if they found me. Or I would have joined the guards and made sure to arrive a minute late in a hurry, making it seem like there was nothing threatening about me. And that's just what I'm coming up with off the top of my head. It would either be one plan or the other if I were trying to escape unnoticed, not both. That would have been stupid, and rather defeat the point." Chess said, brushing those comments away. "But such contemplation is pointless. I suspect that, if the criminal is among us, she, or he, is part of the guard force, and a master of disguises instead of transformation or illusion. Mundanes can make mistakes with this sort of thing rather easily."

[Cogsrow]

It's probably something simple like a doppleganger or a ghoul that got into the city and is unusually intelligent. Or hell maybe there's a succubus in the city

[Gnomes2169]

"Just so we're clear... some one with multiple wigs and a makeup kit along with a few different outfits? Much, much simpler than a succubus, doppelganger or ghoul, entirely mundane and much more common. Also much more likely. Maybe the murderer even has a few simple illusion or transmutation spells to assist them, but I wouldn't suspect they have anything large or fancy. Not if they were a small scale murderer as they appear to be."

[Cogsrow]

We live in a world where there is a prismatic ocean. Where wizards can rain the apocalypse of the heavens down upon their foes with a wave of the hand and some words. Anything is possible chess. you're a walking crystal being that can cast magic and you're doubting the possibility it might be supernatural?

[Gnomes2169]

"No, I'm merely pointing out that the majority of beings are not magical or wonderful, and that there are perfectly mundane, common things that could be done instead. People tend to forget about those in this world, for some reason... They also tend to forget that only one in a hundred humans or so can actually harness magic, and that one in a thousand of those people go on to actually do anything beyond book keeping and study. Also, the prismatic ocean is rather beautiful I do not recommend swimming in it. That gets messy."

[Cogsrow]

Yeah but havn't you ever noticed that nothing ever really seems to get done by normal people? it's like there some inbuilt directive that only people with power do stuff

[Gnomes2169]

"You'd be surprised. I was in the middle of a revolt once, and let me tell you, the people in power were most definitely not in power any longer. Though it's true that commoners and such don't so much normally... but then again, given the right incentive and some time, there is very little that they can't do in their mundane little ways."

[Cogsrow]

The fact a walking crystal that casts magic is arguing for mundanes is a thing I think is more shocking than anything else "she finishes her cookie"

[Gnomes2169]

"Magic is sometimes boring to me, seeing as I'm made out of it. Mundanes are so much more interesting and amusing distractions sometimes." Chess explained, shrugging. "I lived in a flying city, remember, but the majority of my people still walk around, talk and lift things with our hands. The droll makes the wondrous that much more interesting."

[Cogsrow]

I personally don't see why, anyone can learn to use magic it just takes the drive necessary to learn it.

[Gnomes2169]

"It also takes time, commitment, energy and resources that the vast majority of people lack. Also, being born in the wrong place or as the wrong species is also very, very harmful to your chances of even being exposed to magic."

[Cogsrow]

That's largely irellevent, life is neither fair nor equal. you can bitch and moan about it or you can stand up and start fighting for what you want. So magic can be learned by anyone

[Gnomes2169]

"You have obviously never traveled outside of a city, so I will forgive your ignorance of the conditions people live in." Chess said, waving her off. "Now then, I believe we were hired to guard a moving caravan? Why are we still delayed?"

[Cogsrow]

I've travelled hundreds of miles from the far north outsider. Don't presume to know me. I've also lived in far worse conditions than many but I still found the time to practice and train my craft.

[Illven]

So that lovely time is just starting.

Time for you to roll spot and listen checks. Also place yourself on the map


http://imageshack.us/scaled/medium/703/2ntt.png (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/703/2ntt.png/)

Brown is trail, light Green is short undergrowth, dark green is the treeline.

[Rei of Hope]

*The small woman had not moved from her horse by the tree but her eyes darted between the two deep in conversation. She kept a blank stare until the topic of magic comes up. She leads her horse to the front of the wagon and casually states as she passes.* The mind to learn and the desire are two different concepts, ma'am. And ones choice if they want that in their lives is theirs alone.

[Gnomes2169]

Chess was positioned in the center of the caravan, riding on the back of a wagon with its crystalline eyes looking back and forth. Always be wary for danger... Oh, and always ignore people that look down on the pathetic and blame them for their position. After all, it wasn't their fault they had been born into a barbaric, ignorant race of flesh beings and lacked the magic spark. Not at all.

Position: K4/5 (whichever one would be sitting on the back of the cart)

[roll0] Spot
[roll1] Listen

[Ravena]

Donna walks in between the third and fourth caravan. Walking to the side of them when she couldn't go in between them and uses her scythe as a a walking stick of sorts. She constantly has her eyes moving, scanning the tree lines, looking for anything that could mean danger.

[roll0] Spot
[roll1] Listen

[Cogsrow]

"Orianna was laying down in the back of the middle cart, her fingers drumming on the wood, least no one had tried to talk to her for a bit and she got some peace, though the bumpy ride was annoying. her pack was acting as a makeshift pillow.


[roll0] listen
[roll1] spot
position J4

[jaydubs]

Joriah has been staying near the front of the caravan, trying to keep an eye on the road ahead. He continues to stay in the saddle of his horse, with his dog Roshan trotting at his side.

Joriah - P6
Spot: [roll0]
Listen: [roll1]

Roshan - P7
Spot: [roll2]
Listen: [roll3]

Roshan is trained to alert, raising a tail and pointing at any unexpected creatures. Riding dogs also have the scent ability to detect any opponents within 30 feet, which does not need a successful spot or listen check.

[holydeg]

Dell climbs into the wagon in front of Chess's, puts his pack at his feet, and enjoys the scenary. Nodding to the driver next to him, he says, "Morning, how are you today?"

Position is H3.

Spot: [roll0]
Listen: [roll1]

[Illven]

http://imageshack.us/scaled/medium/824/d5b9.png (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/824/d5b9.png/)



http://imageshack.us/scaled/medium/716/rmfp.png (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/716/rmfp.png/)



http://imageshack.us/scaled/medium/17/f14p.png (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/17/f14p.png/)



Time to roll init.

[Cogsrow]

"orianna's ears twitch and she sits up. Damnit they were under attack, She gets ready to cast no choice she needs a stronger form"

initiative [roll0]

[jaydubs]

"Let us see what you are made of, lads and lasses," Joriah whispers under his breath.

[roll0]

[Ravena]

Donna sighs, "And here I was hoping for a nice ride with no fights what so ever. Oh well, beggar's's can't be choosier."

[roll0]

[holydeg]

Dell's eyes flicker between combatants, as he begins to size up where to place his spells.

Init: [roll0]

[Gnomes2169]

Chess, meanwhile, stands up... aaaaand takes a step back into the cart. Yeah, fighting. Not so much a forte. And it would do things better back here than out in melee with these people and their weapons.

[Rei of Hope]

*The small girl rode her horse out in front. She spots the enemies as well and draws her sword but despite her usual quiet manner speaks to the creatures in their path.* Let us pass. We ask for nothing else and no blood will have to be spilled today.

[Gnomes2169]

Aaaand forgot to roll init >.>

1d20+3

[Gnomes2169]

Okay, THIS TIME YOU WILL WORK

[roll0]

[Illven]

Ravena and Cosgrow. You start us off.


http://imageshack.us/scaled/medium/824/d5b9.png (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/824/d5b9.png/)



http://imageshack.us/scaled/medium/716/rmfp.png (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/716/rmfp.png/)



http://imageshack.us/scaled/medium/17/f14p.png (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/17/f14p.png/)

[Cogsrow]

"She growls damn he wasnt' here to help, oh well it couldn't be helped. Her form shifts as she bolts up and runs towards the front of the caravan a scythe being drawn, what was once a short aasimer woman was now a taller thicker insectoid thing a large shell forming on her back, her leather armor justbarely able to fit her new body and her red cloak still rapped around her shell and body her mask still in place. SHe rushes to the front"

Casting alter self, Dc 11 knowledge nature to know what into and moving to O3

[Ravena]

Donna sighs as she heads towards the men who were attacking. She pulls our her scythe and mutters a few words to herself as well.

Move to R3 and casts Mage Armor.

[Illven]

It is Welesy B, holydeg, Gnomes2169 turn


You have no idea what Cosgrow casts or what he turns into.



You have no idea what Cosgrow casts or what he turns into.

You have no idea what Ravena casts



Cosgrow's character cast Alter self. You are not sure as to what.

Ravena's character cast Mage armor.



You have no idea what Ravena cast



You have no idea what Cosgrow cast.

You have no idea what Ravena cast.



Cosgrow's character cast Alter self, you have no idea what it is.

Ravena's character cast Mage armor.

The robed goblinoid casts invisibility.



Cosgrow's character is suddenly a Crucian. You do not know why.

You have no idea what Ravena cast.

The robed goblinoid disappears by magic.



http://imageshack.us/scaled/medium/542/ilv0.png (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/542/ilv0.png/)



http://imageshack.us/scaled/medium/801/4c37.png (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/801/4c37.png/)



http://imageshack.us/scaled/medium/163/0mic.png (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/163/0mic.png/)

[Gnomes2169]

Hmmmm, it seemed that everyone was moving forward... alright then, Chess saw that it had plenty of meat shields in front of it, and so that meant that it could do... this. Stepping forwards, out of the wagon in fact, Chess muttered a few words and a glow flew from its hand, wrapping around and bolstering all of its allies.

Move towards the party 15ft, cast Bless

[holydeg]

Dell draws a wand and taps himself on the head with it.

The wand is Mage Armor, giving +4 AC for 1 hour. I am subtracting one charge from the wand.

[Illven]

One of the orcs charge Ravena's character. But the attack clangs at nothing.

The orc leader moves into a weird fighting stance. and charges Ravena's character. Using a weird swing, he nails her with his large axe.

You take 17 points of damage


It is Rei of Hope, and Jaydubs turn.


Donna realizes that Gnomes2169's character is casting bless.

You cannot tell what magic holydeg is using from his stick



Kornari fails to recognize any of the magic. Though Gnomes2169's character's magic seems to make you more accurate, and more resistant to fear.



You cannot tell what magic holydeg is using from his stick



Orianna realizes that Gnomes2169's character is casting bless.

You cannot tell what magic holydeg is using from his stick.

You realize that Ravena's character has mage armor up.



Joriah fails to recognize the spell Gnomes2169's character cast. Though Gnomes2169's character's magic seems to make you more accurate, and more resistant to fear.

You cannot tell what magic holydeg is using from his stick.

You recongize that Ravena's character has mage armor up.



Dell fails to recognize the spell Gnomes2169's character cast. Though Gnomes2169's character's magic seems to make you more accurate, and more resistant to fear.

You cannot tell what magic holydeg is using from his stick



Kemsey fails to recognize any of the magic. Though Gnomes2169's character's magic seems to make you more accurate, and more resistant to fear.



http://imageshack.us/scaled/medium/69/biyk.png (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/69/biyk.png/)



http://imageshack.us/scaled/medium/593/i4oz.png (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/593/i4oz.png/)



http://imageshack.us/scaled/medium/593/i4oz.png (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/593/i4oz.png/)

[jaydubs]

Drawing on his natural instincts, Roshan moves to flank one of the orcs attacking Ravena, snapping viciously at the assailant. Joriah looks into the forest, and begins to murmur words of magic, before riding forward himself, spear and shield in hand.

As he rides, many of the plants in front of the caravan begin to rise up, grasping at the orcs in the trees and undergrowth.


Roshan moves to T5 to flank the orc in S4, and then attacks. This set includes the flanking modifier.
Attack: [roll0]
Damage: [roll1]
Trip check: [roll2]
Crit confirm: [roll3]
Crit damage: [roll4]

Roshan's attack of opportunity rolls, if applicable. As from something standing up or moving away. No modifiers included. Edit: juggling these rolls is hard. Those should read 1d20+6, not +8 without flanking modifiers.

Attack: [roll5]
Damage: [roll6]
Trip check: [roll7]
Crit confirm: [roll8]
Crit damage: [roll9]

Joriah casts Entangle (http://www.dandwiki.com/wiki/SRD:Entangle) to some point off the map, so as to just barely catch S2, S3, and S4 without reaching to Ravena's square. He then moves to S6.

And entangled (http://www.dandwiki.com/wiki/SRD:Entangled) modifiers if they fail their saves.

[Rei of Hope]

*With no response from their opponents. She shrugs and shakes her head.* I have granted you the choice to stand down. There is nothing I can do now. *She charges forward lowering her lance to make contact with Orc when she reached it.*

[roll0]

[roll1]

[roll2]

[roll3]

[Illven]

jaydubs's character's animal companion attack the orc, who falls to the ground bleeding.

Vines wrap around an orc before it attacks Ravena. And the orc's leader.

Rei's attack hits and kills the orc

A hidden Orc takes a swing at Ravena's character, but misses clanging against something invisible.

It is Ravena and Cosgrow's turn.


Jaydub's character cast Entangle.



Kornari fails to recognize any of the magic.



Jaydub's character cast Entangle.



Jaydub's character cast Entangle.



Entangle will not go off onto trails. There are no plants there to twist around, It is also less effective. (Lower DC), on light green areas.



Jaydub's character cast Entangle.



Kemsey fails to recognize any of the magic.



http://imageshack.us/scaled/medium/42/43bd.png (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/42/43bd.png/)

[Cogsrow]

"Oiranna spys the big bad orc leader and rushes him as her Beetle self and reaches out going to touch him her hand sparking"

Crunch
attack roll [roll0] it's +3 more if the orc is wearing metal armor
Damage roll [roll1]

[Ravena]

Donna grasps at the wound with her free hand and pulls back. She was not gonna die here. No way in hell.

Takes a withdraw action and moves to J3

[Illven]

Cosgrow's character moves ahead casting a spell. However the Orc leader manages to nail Cosgrow's character. Cosgrow's spell fizzles.


Cosgrow takes 20 points of damage.


It is WelseyB, holydeg, and gnomes2169's turn


You fail to identify what spell Cosgrow cast



Kornari fails to recognize any of the magic.



You fail to identify what spell Cosgrow cast



Nothing here



You fail to identify what spell Cosgrow cast



Cosgrow's character tried to cast Shocking grasp.



Kemsey fails to recognize any of the magic.



http://imageshack.us/scaled/medium/707/69au.png (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/707/69au.png/)

[Gnomes2169]

Hmmmm, things did not appear to be going well on the front. Apparently, Chess might have to get its hands dirty. So it drew its weapon and its shield... and then moved a bit closer. Not quite in reach of them, but then again, within reach if it needed to fight anyway.

Move action, draw, move again to get within 10' of the bottom orc

[holydeg]

Dell digs into his spell pouch and lifts his hand, and a Frost Giant climbs out of the back wagon.

Dell cast silent image to create an image of a Frost Giant. Those who interact with the image get a DC 17 Will save to disbelieve.

[Illven]

A frost giant appears strangely silent.

The orc leader trapped by the entangle spell, takes the only spiteful action it has left. Swinging at Orianna. However he misses his axe strike.

It is Rei, and jaydubs turn.


You fail to identify what spell holydeg cast



Kornari fails to recognize any of the magic.



holydeg's character cast silent image



You fail to identify what spell holydeg cast



You fail to identify what spell Cosgrow cast



You fail to identify what spell holydeg cast



Kemsey fails to recognize any of the magic.



http://imageshack.us/scaled/medium/36/staa.png (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/36/staa.png/)

[jaydubs]

"&#%*@!!! Why is there a frost giant here!?!?" Joriah motions for Roshan to retreat down the road, and then joins him. Almost as an afterthought, he throws a shortspear at the orc still attacking Orianna.

Roshan moves to W5. Joriah moves to W6 and throws a spear at the orc in S3.

Attack: [roll0]
Damage: [roll1]
Crit confirm: [roll2]
Crit damage: [roll3]

[Rei of Hope]

*She barely breaks stride going after the leader next, her lance now covered in blood of the first orc.*




[roll0]

[roll1]

[roll2]

[roll3]

[Illven]

jaydub's character's spear misses the orc leader.

Rei is unable to charge due to not enough room. She swings and damages the leader.

The orc swings at Cosgrow's character, but misses.

It is Ravena's and Cosgrow's turn


http://imageshack.us/scaled/medium/802/70vi.png (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/802/70vi.png/)

[Cogsrow]

"orianna cries out at being cut, the carapace breaking the axe embedding in it red blood oozing out. she growls and focuses casting to attack the orc again"

casting defensively against orc leader
concentration check [roll0] DC 17
touch attack [roll1] it's +3 if metal armor
shocking grasp damage [roll2]

[Ravena]

Donna moves closer to the battle again, but not close enough to be attacked.

Moves to m3

[Illven]

Orianna's spell this time damages the orc leader into unconsciousness.

It is Welsey, holydeg, Gnomes2169, Rei of hope, and Jaydubs turn.


Cosgrow's character cast shocking grasp



Kornari fails to recognize any of the magic.



Cosgrow's character cast shocking grasp



Nothing here



You fail to identify what spell Cosgrow cast



Cosgrow's character cast shocking grasp



Kemsey fails to recognize any of the magic.



http://imageshack.us/scaled/medium/707/iczg.png (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/707/iczg.png/)

[jaydubs]

Finding it strange that everyone else is ignoring the apparently real frost giant, Joriah keeps his distance while throwing another spear at the remaining orc.


Attack: [roll0]
Damage: [roll1]
Crit confirm: [roll2]
Crit damage: [roll3]

[holydeg]

Dell focuses on the Frost Giant, which draws a massive club and threatens the nearby orc.

Concentration: [roll0]

[Gnomes2169]

Well, just one left now? So then, this should be simple enough... taking a careful step forward, Chess swung his mace towards the remaining orc, likely not going to do more than distract it, but flanking the beasty to give its allies a quick boost.

Chess moves with a 5' step into melee range (no AoO), flanking the orc.
Attack roll: [roll0]
Damage roll: [roll1]
Crit confirm: [roll2]
Crit damage: [roll3]

[Rei of Hope]

*Still on her horse, she draws her sword. She swings it quickly toward the remaining Orc, her throat letting out a grunt as she puts forth the effort to do so.*


[roll0]

[roll1]

[roll2]

[roll3]

[Illven]

Okay the Orcs are killed. You gain 300 xp each.

What do you do?

[Gnomes2169]

Chess, while waiting for the entanglement to die down, asked everyone politely, "Who requires healing?"

[Cogsrow]

"Orianna collapses grunting holding her side as the spell subsides and she returns to the normal red robbed, masked woman she usually is her scythe falling to her side as she sees blood pouring from her wound"

[Ravena]

"I-I do sir." Donna replies, holding tighter to the wound at her side.

[Gnomes2169]

Seeing as Donna was the one that spoke, she is the one that Chess moved to. "Sir? So you are just going to assume my gender now, or that I even have a gender? Why, the nerve!" The stone like being joked, pressing its hand to her shoulder and whispering for a second before a glow surrounded her. "There, feeling a bit better?"

Cure light wounds: [roll0]

[Illven]

Ravena you recover 4 hit points as Chess puts a hand to your shoulder.


Gnomes2169's character cast Cure light wounds.



You fail to identify any of the magic.



Gnomes2169's character cast Cure light wounds.



Gnomes2169's character cast Cure light wounds.



You fail to detect what spell Gnomes2169's cast.



You fail to identify any of the magic.


What else do you intend to do?

[jaydubs]

Joriah murmured some magical words as he walked past Orianna, placing a hand on her shoulder as he passed. A channel of positive energy flows through her body as he does. "Well done." Rough around the edges though she may be, she handled herself bravely during the combat.

Lesser vigor - heal 13 hp over the next 13 rounds.
He now walked to the string of three orcs, and begins to administer to their wounds, stripping them of their possession in the process. "I would be interested in questioning the survivors, as well as finding out what shiny baubles they bring to our treasure stores." He murmured a few more magical words as he examined the newly acquired objects.

Joriah takes 10 to stabilize any surviving orcs, total heal check 16. He then strips the orcs of all their items, and casts detect magic on the pile. He will maintain concentration on the spell long enough to gather as much information as possible about any magical items, as per the detect magic spell description.

[Illven]

You fail to identify the spell.



You fail to identify any of the magic.



jaydub's character cast lesser vigor.



jaydub's character cast lesser vigor.

You recover 13 points of damage, after the next minute or so.



You find Splint mail, a heavy steel shield, a Masterwork Great axe, 4 Javelins. 3 Falchions, 3 Studded leathers, and 350 gold. Do you hide any of this before casting Detect magic?

Also one orc survives, but is still unconscious.



jaydub's character cast lesser vigor.



You fail to identify any of the magic.


What else do you intend to do?

[jaydubs]

I am not trying to hide anything.

I added a bit to the previous spoiler, not sure if you missed it due to the fast response. I'm going to maintain concentration on the detect magic spell long enough to get all possible information, as per the spell.
Joriah points toward a lone surviving orc. "Would someone with a knack for tying knots mind binding that one? He is still alive, and will probably recover consciousness in the next day or two. I wish to know if there were any special circumstances to this attack."

[Gnomes2169]

After thinking about it for a second, another flow of positive energy went into Donna, healing some more of her wound, since the last one seemed sort of wimpy... "Come back tomorrow if that's still bothering you." The statue prescribed, while simultaneously sending a message to Joriah.

"Ah, my good man, I believe that I have a few spells I would like to learn from you now, if you would be so kind as to come discuss with me once you are done with that... mongrel that attempted to assault us."

Cure light wounds (again): [roll0]

[Illven]

You fail to identify the spell Gnomes2169 is casting. You regain 9 hit points.

jaydubs is casting Detect magic.



You fail to identify any of the magic.



jaydubs is casting Detect magic.



Gnomes2169's character is casting Cure light wounds.

jaydubs's character is casting Detect magic.



Gnomes2169's character is casting Cure light wounds.

None of this stuff is magical.



Gnomes2169's character is casting Cure light wounds.

jaydubs's character is casting Detect magic.



You fail to identify any of the magic.


In a pile jaydubs piles the items from the orcs. Together there is a Splint mail, a heavy steel shield, a Masterwork Great axe, 4 Javelins. 3 Falchions, 3 Studded leathers, and 350 gold.

[Gnomes2169]

Chess walked up to the shield and, with a nod, put it on its back. "Might as well, never know when it might come in handy." It muttered to itself and anyone within 5'.

[jaydubs]

Joriah passes 50 gold to each person. "Hmm... unfortunately, nothing here is magical. This particularly fine great axe seems to be the only thing of real value. Do any of you need any of these items? If not, I will sell them when we reach town, and divide the proceeds then."

Just let me know what you need, and I'll memorize one of them for the next day. I do need to keep some spells available for regular casting, however.

Keep in mind that if any spell requires costly material components or experience, we'll have to come to an arrangement.

[holydeg]

Dell releases the Frost Giant, and begins looking about the area for magic, "Hold on guys, there was a goblinoid who went invisible"

Dell is casting Detect Magic to see if he can find the invisible goblinoid

[Cogsrow]

"orianna kind of just kneels there groaning a bit till she's healed and slowly stands up rubbing her head" umm, when my guardian catches up he might be able to use that splint mail, and no offense chess but he's a melee fighter and could definently make better use of the shield "she says still rubbing her cut shoulder the healing not quite being enough to bring her back to normal"

[Illven]

Give me a new initiative check.

[holydeg]

Initiative:[roll0]

[Illven]

You notice when you check the wagons there was a magical aura in one of them, but before you can get more info the aura disappears.

[holydeg]

Dell points at a wagon, "Chess, would you mind checking to see what is that wagon? Some kind of magic just stopped." He then continues to scan for magic auras.

[Gnomes2169]

"You cast entangle and lesser vigor, two spells that would be most helpful to my arsenal. As well, you are a druid. I'm certain there is some kind of summoning or calling spell that you could teach me."

"If your guardian is a fighter and he doesn't have his own equipment, then I suggest you find yourself a new guardian. Your current one is rather... lacking. I would hope that he has his own weapons, at the very least."

"What kind of magic do you think it was?" Chess asked, walking up to the wagon mentioned and casting Detect Magic in the interior.

[Illven]

You find no auras in the wagon. However while you scan. You notice that the wagon has been ransacked.

[Cogsrow]

"orianna scowls at chess" for your information he doesn't sleep so he decided to scout out ahead for us "for a single moment the woman's demeanor changes from the shrill ready to cut hell girl to more concerned" I hope he's okay...and he has equipment, but I don't know anything about armor, he does and maybe that's better than the armor he has...

[Gnomes2169]

Shaking its head with a sigh, Chess turned back to the others and announced, "Our invisible guest is gone. Whatever he was looking for in here, he tore the wagon up to try and find it. Check the other wagons, he might still be in one if he went to the wrong wagon. And Joriah, we might want to look at that list of yours again, take catalog."

[jaydubs]

Joriah gives the inventory list to Chess in a hurried fashion. "Here, feel free. No guarantees, but if we had a visitor, there may yet be a chance to find him." Joriah begins to direct Roshan to the ransacked wagon, and the dog begins sniffing in earnest.

Roshan will take 10, and gets an additional +4 racial bonus to his survival check to track by scent. Total 17 to track the intruder.

Tracking by scent rules: http://www.wizards.com/default.asp?x=dnd/glossary&term=Glossary_dnd_scent&alpha=

"And someone tie up that orc please. There was obviously more to this attack than we know."

[Gnomes2169]

Taking the list, Chess climbed aboard one of the wagons and began to look through the items listed, for now just looking through the things outside of crates or in crates that had been opened during the ransacking.

[Rei of Hope]

*The Paladin on her horse surveys the field before putting her sword away. Anyone who would be watching her would notice her hands are shaking so bad she can barely do this. She dismounts and checks her horse for wounds before walking over to the group. She reaches onto the horse for her bag, her hands still shaking. She takes out a water pouch and offers it to the group.* Water anyone?

[Illven]

You find through a curious glance, several boxes of magic items have been ransacked. Scrolls, wondrous items, robes. The thief seems to have left anything that was not magic, alone.



Roshan has the scent. Will you try to track it down?

[Gnomes2169]

After finding some things missing, Chess went through more thoroughly, marking each item missing from the list and going through some of the unopened crates to make sure it had everything cataloged.

Search check, take ten for a 20 to find each missing item and record what was stolen... so a complete list please. :smalltongue:

To the shaken paladin, Chess sent, the message, "I don't drink much of anything, so thank you but no thank you."

[Cogsrow]

To chess
In between two of the containers Orianna's bag sits slightly open,you can see a glimmer of metal and what looks like the helmet her guardian was wearing

[Gnomes2169]

Chess gave the impression of a speculative stroking of the chin and asked, "So this guardian of yours... he took everything with him when he went out to scout for you?"

[Illven]

In total there are 8 scrolls missing, 2 head wear devices, and 3 robes.

[jaydubs]

Joriah quickly binds the orc himself.

Taking 10 for 12 on use rope. Escape DC is 22.
He then speaks loudly to the group. "I believe my dog has the scent of our thief. I am going after him, but there are no guarantees in this kind of search. We may find him, or we may not. Still, if I do catch up with him, I will likely need help to recover our employer's property. Some of you should stay here and protect the caravan from further assault. Probably those injured or casters who are out of spells for the day. The rest of you, I would appreciate your assistance in this matter. We have no time to waste."

Joriah remounts his horse, and urges his dog to follow the trail.

Roshan will continue taking 10 on tracking checks for 17.

[Gnomes2169]

Chess, knowing that it would just slow everyone down since they had mounts and animals to assist them, sat down on the cart and crossed its legs. "Good luck, all. Invisibility, if it's a spell, should wear off soon..."

[Illven]

So who is following the druid?

[Ravena]

Donna lightly patted the shaking girl. "The battles over now, would do best to settle that shaking." She gave the girl a warm and friendly smile as she sat on the wagon. She may have had an animal companion, but a hummingbird would do little with helping track the thief down.

[Cogsrow]

"orianna rubbed her shoulder, no point in going she wasn't in top form" I'll stay and guard the caravan "goes to climb into the wagon she was in before" and chess, use that brain you claim to have. Who tries to scout ahead in heavy armor? jeez, that's a sure fire way to get caught. He'll probably meet up with us tonight or something. "uses the pack as a makeshift pillow and gets some rations to eat"

[Gnomes2169]

"Last I checked, anything less than a great helm doesn't count as 'heavy armor.'" Chess sent back, looking over the list again, "Are you certain your guardian knows what he's doing here?"

[Cogsrow]

"she shrug slightly" He's durable, and whether or not he knows what he's doing he'll meet up with me tonight. "looks at chess" now stop looking in my thing. don't you know it's rude to go through a lady's belongings?

[Illven]

You realize that Orianna's earlier statement about her guardian scouting, is a lie.



Nothing to see here.

[Gnomes2169]

"Why should a lady's belongings be any more important than a man's? You fleshlings are so very, very odd... Also, if you don't want people to see what you put on the top of your belongings, then don't leave your bag open around the creature with a photographic memory. Just a little tip for future interactions, there. Also, I was going to add that, while it's really not heavy armor, I can see the value in not wearing the helmet, as its design could cover ears ore restrict your vision, regardless of the heaviness. Well, unless it's a skull cap. But I consider those to be more 'metal hats' then helmets, really..." Oh dear, Chess is starting to ramble... "Regardless, On further review it makes sense that your elusive guardian left his helmet behind while scouting, though once he returns I suspect that he will be reclaiming it immediately, as often a being that wears a helmet feels exposed out in the open while not wearing one. Now, I'm going through some scrolls to figure out what they are so that I can ascertain at least the majority of those scrolls that were not stolen, and I will be memorizing a few more spells... well, if I can get some peace and quiet while reading, that is."

[Cogsrow]

"looks at chess going over to look at the bag, it was closed chess could just see the helm through the pack cause it was massive and almost bursting open" This is why outsiders arn't to betrusted, just to many differences and tehy are always lookin forways to kill you

[Gnomes2169]

"Kill you? What point is there in killing you? You people do that effectively enough as it is, and your lives are so very short already! Hah, no, that is actually amusing Orianna. There is no point in killing mortals, none whatsoever. In fact, that's the boring option. And how did you even come to that conclusion, anyway? Did I project the feeling of 'helmet' in a threatening and deadly way? Ooo, or was it 'quiet'? Yes, yes that must be it! My threatening, dooming 'quiet' must have frightened you to your core." Chess was mentally laughing as it walked to a different wagon to collect scrolls from it. "Ooooo, watch out! the mute statue will come and get you in your sleep if you break its peace and quiet! Just ignore the fact that it's a wandering historian, it's an evil statue and evil statues are monsters that eat you in the night. Oooooooooooooo~!"

So apparently, magic personified as a person is very, very snarky. Who knew?

[Cogsrow]

"glares at it from behind her mask" Past experiences have taught meto distrust your kind. I will not forego experience simply because you're harmless

[Gnomes2169]

"My kind? There was a rash if emigration that I don't know about now? I'm one of maybe ten members of my race that actually left the city instead of just staying in the libraries and learning of all magic from them. Very boring, my people tend to be. So if you saw any one of 'my kind', then you would have been bored to death long, long before you received hostility from them. Well... unless you went out of your way to threaten them, at least. Oh, or unless you ran into Beryl. That guy is an ass, and he cheats at cards." Chess kept talking to her even though it now had a cart in between them. "In fact, that man stole my scrolls just last month by stacking the deck in his favor, and demanding that I play just one more hand! And then he used the scrolls to burn down an orphanage. For the blind. And deaf. Who never owned a puppy. And were attacked by lemurs. The fuzzy monkey kind, not the demons. And if you hadn't figured it out by now, he doesn't actually exist because my people don't do things like that. Veeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeery snarky.

[Cogsrow]

"Orianna pulls her hood back and takes her mask off and looks at chess" for a silent statue you're rather talkative, and when I say your kind I mean all outsiders...not a single one of you can be trusted.You may think you're better than mebut you're not.Your kind secret themselves away to learn magic, but for what?your kind don't make the world a better place they actively worsen it. wouldn't exist without angels. "she looks away" and without angels my sister would still be alive

[Gnomes2169]

"Angels, child? I do not need to have an angel to exist, Boccob himself hand crafted me. So a god I need, yes. Angels? Angels are archons, I believe. They are not my opposites, and in fact I have no opposites. And what purpose do you serve, child, that you can belittle the race that studies and expands its knowledge for the sake of creating new and glorious things? Honestly, why would you expect or demand them to come here and interact with them if the only thing you give in return is hostility and persecution? You judge me and mine, mortal, and only show how very vulnerable you feel and how much rather unreasonable anger you have towards things strange and different. It's quite sad, really."

"The little world in your head must be so very lonely and broken, child. You look past the wonders of a telepathic statue standing in front of you and instead decide that I am of the same ilk as the creatures that killed your sister. Well, if she was anything like you, I can certainly see how she might have provoked them into attacking her. So very violent and hostile you are. I think that my people might avoid this place because there are individuals like you and the guards who assume we are dark, terrible beings without even waiting for us to say anything or act. In other words, your rampant stupidity and ignorance makes this place unappealing. Maybe when you are more enlightened, you will see more than a solitary Arcanite traveling the world."

So, identifying what scrolls I can to mark them off of the catalogue: Take 10 to get a 22 on identification, allowing me to read all the level 1 and 2 scrolls if I so desire (but scribing none of them to my spell book)

[Cogsrow]

"She stands up and looks at chess her voice is as cold as the grave" If you -dare- speak ill of my sister again Chess. I will kill you

To gnomes
Intimidate roll [roll0]

[Gnomes2169]

On the cart, the statue flinched slightly, still reading its scroll.

"Ah, a sore spot. I am sorry, I forgot how attached you people are to your families... any offense taken I wish to retract. I spoke too hastily. I am sorry. There is no need for violence here. Well, unless some more bandits pop up out of the blue. Then I recommend you spread some violence around to deal with them. Ruffians and the like..."

"Sister? Who said anything about your sister? Are you even listening to what I'm saying, or just putting words in my mouth? Calm down, there is no need for violence here. No one is trying to start a fight or cause you distress."

[Cogsrow]

"sighs sitting back down" it is a sore spot chess, don't bring it up unless you wish to see first hand what spells I possess

[Gnomes2169]

"Alright, alright, I won't. Now I'm just going to read these scrolls and start the process of figuring out what is missing, okay? Okay." And the statue went about doing just that, setting the identified scrolls apart from the unidentified ones.

[holydeg]

Dell rises, "I'll scout for this mischievous person with you."

[Rei of Hope]

*She takes a long swig of the water herself and then goes to put it back in her bag.* I am fine thank you. *She says tying not to sound cold. Her hands ball into fists as she cast her eyes down to the ground for a moment. She listens to the arguing not interjecting. She shakes her head after they stop. She quickly mounts her horse and with her normal flat tone.* I will help pursue the thief as well. *She turns to follow the Druid and adds.* Such energy should not be wasted in petty fighting. It makes you both seem week which I know both of you are not.

[Illven]

So jaydubs. Normal tracking is at half-speed, are you okay with that?

[jaydubs]

Good point. Since it's a fresh trail, we're going to take the -5 penalty and track at normal speed. That 12 from taking 10 should still be enough to mount a pursuit if there aren't any negative circumstance modifiers (I understand there might be). *crosses fingers*

[Illven]

jaydubs and holydeg. Roll spot, listen and initiative checks.

[jaydubs]

I believe Rei is following us as well. See post 244.

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

Dog's spot and listen
Spot: [roll3]
Listen: [roll4]

[Illven]

Also Rei, post spot, listen, and Init checks.

[Cogsrow]

"orianna adjusts her pack and lays down resting her head on it and takes a cookie eating it before putting her mask back on, she just kind of lays there not sleeping but still being near perfectly still"