[Game Thread] Fate's Pawn - Part 4, The Chosen Path

[BraveSirRobin]

It had been an eventful couple of days for the intrepid party. Despite having known each other for the briefest of time, the group seemed to be growing close in battle and in objective. Much of the latter had to do with the growing threat and impact from the bug bear warlord Vranq. It had been known that Vranq had been growing in power among the orc tribes, but it now seemed that his reach was expanding. Where did his ambitions end? What were they planning? They had enlisted the help of human mercenaries. One of his trusted lieutenants, Natasha, was apparently gathering forces and resources to the south. It now seemed that, whether they chose to or not, the party was involved.

The rod was drawing much attention to them. Attempts had been made to take it back from Gragham and further attempts were almost a certainty but they still didn’t have a clue why. John Tweed had indicated that it was some sort of message device used by No’Mos, and this particular one dated back before the Siege. The bear prints that adorned the rod indicated that it belonged to the Dracu Family, whose line had died out at Darkholme. What mystery did it hold that Vranq’s forces would take such efforts to acquire it? And what should the party do with it? There were many possibilities. Save it as a bargaining chip. Give it to the No’Mos church and let them deal with it. Or maybe even discover the secret themselves. Tweed had indicated that there were reading devices buried deep in the Soulbreak mountains where elven influence at one time reached, that had since been overrun by the Horde. Also there was the old temple in Nearholme, reputed to now be haunted by creatures even worse then the Horde. There was even the possibility of taking an entirely different route and contacting the Oracles about their problem.

Then there was the Witness Text, an ancient scroll detailing the destruction of one of the legendary Dragon Orbs. What did it mean? And what did Percy and Maximillion Silverthorne want with it? What maybe most surprising might be the fact that those who sought the Rod made no mention of the scroll. Not Natasha. Not Keeg. Not Faun. None had asked about nor made any effort to take it from them. None had even bothered with Clem even though he was mentioned right there in Percy’s journal. Did they not know about it or did they just not care? It was another mystery about which they knew even less. Clem had told them that his brother Percy had instructed him to sell it to Max. He also said Max was staying in town at the Silver Raven. Clem didn’t want any part of it however and had thus given it to Gragham, trusting the guild that had given him his start. Now the party held it but with little guidance of what to do with it. One possibility was of course to speak with Max about it.

Then there were the local troubles. Asylum seemed like a city heavily under a dark influence. First the name Shyloe shows up in Percy’s journal as the one that introduced him to Ka’Kos. It seems like no small coincidence that there is a powerful council member named Shyloe Lassiter here in town. The orcs that they had captured and interrogated had also spoke of spies here in town informing them of shipments and where and when to ambush them. Finally there was Keeg, the evil temple and their gang hidden right here in the heart of Asylum Was there any more to it or had the party managed to cleanse the city of the spies? For now there wasn’t any way to tell.

None of that was a priority at the moment, however. They were wounded, tired and had a number of minor matters to take care of first. They had found numerous items in the possession of the lizard folk and the evil cleric that they needed to sort through. There were other things that they could sell and probably other items that they could buy. A visit to Carlyle’s connection in the black market might be in order or even Rahn’s potion dealer. Individually, Carlyle still felt drained by Faun’s kiss and a cure would need to be found, Gragham had questions about his axe, and the life of two orcs still depended on Rahn. It was going to be a busy couple of days.

Time: Afternoon
Day: Kerneste Day
Date: 4th of Wintersmonth
Lighting: Daylight
Conditions: Cold
Status:
Rahn: 35/35
Gragham: 28/81
Carlyle: 27/33 (one negative level, -1 all rolls, -5hps)
Mule: 24/31 (Spider Climb 266rds) (Barkskin +2 to AC 269rds) (Flame Blade 355rds)
Rokhea: 28/32

[Rahn Dahle]

OOC: Since we are beginning a new thread, I copied/pasted our final posts from the old thread into here. I hope it helps the conversion for all, and I know it helps my conversion.

"Let's get out the back and make our way away through the alleys. In such a warren, we may hide like rabbits in their burrows." Mule noted. "With some haste, I should think."

Rahn nodded in agreement at Mule's suggestion. "That is wise; I only wish I still had the power to magically haste us...but alas, I am now drained of that ability. But, you are still correct Elleseria."

”I… I dunno if I be awrigh’…, he mumbled, keeping his head still while Ellesaria was fussing over the wound on his chin; ”Didn’t ye see dat? It seemed… seemed as if me axe absorbed sumtin’ o’ dat demon… sum o’ its power.” He gave the druid standing before him a worried glance and, when she moved on to check a gash in his side, he squeezed the rest of the holy water out over his blade and used the wet rags to carefully wipe the demon residue off his axe. It was one of the most important things his father had left him, and if it had been tainted by demonic power somehow, he didn’t know if he would be able to cleanse it…

When Gragham commented on his axe, Rahn was surprised.

"I saw nothing Master Dwarf, but I trust your observation. That is something we should definitely investigate! Perhaps my friend could help us in this matter upon the morn."

The dwarf nodded in acknowledgement when he felt and saw the rest of the blood vanish from his beard and his armour –again. ”Tank ye Rahn, I tink I be able ter walk outa ‘ere… but we be wise ter avoid more fightin’, so Ellesaria’s suggestion ter get outta ‘ere be soundin’ appealin. Ye folks wanner go straight back ter dem Anvil, or can we go ter dem captain o’ dem guard firs’? I wanner alert dem authorities b’fore dem ‘ere buggers ‘ave eh chance ter get rid o’ dem evidence.” As he made his way towards the back door, he cocked his head in thought, remembering something. ”Didn’t ye ‘ave eh healin’ wand, Rahn? Or ‘ave we worn it out some’ow?”

"I am glad you seem well enough to walk, and I have enough power left in my wand to give you some mild aid, but the time it would take to fully address your wounds would be unwise to spend here...now. Thus, I will do what I can."

OOC: Rahn shall expend two charges (and two rounds - 20 seconds) from the wand to aid Gragham slightly: Cure roll 1: Dice Roll: (as this is an older post, these rolls are interpreted by the older (more basic) dice roller code) d8+1: (3) + 1 Total = 4 UMD roll 1: Dice Roll: (as this is an older post, these rolls are interpreted by the older (more basic) dice roller code) d20+17: (11) + 17 Total = 28 Cure roll 2: Dice Roll: (as this is an older post, these rolls are interpreted by the older (more basic) dice roller code) d8+1: (3) + 1 Total = 4 UMD roll 2: Dice Roll: (as this is an older post, these rolls are interpreted by the older (more basic) dice roller code) d20+17: (3) + 17 Total = 20

Mule peered cautiously out the door, looking and listening for any more of Keeg's men who might have come back this way.

"Let us all make our way to a temple, if there is one dedicated to healing in this town. We all have wounds, and it would seem a safe refuge from the attention of . . . Faun. We might be able to plan and speak more freely on sanctified ground than at the Anvil," Mule proposed quietly, nodding for Carlyle to lead the way out.

“Aye, I am with Ell, whatever Faun was she did somthin’ ta me an’ it weren’t givin’ me a disease…” Carlyle replies shooting a quick look over to Rahn.

“Tha Giver’s Mission is tha only temple that I know of, it’s in tha north city, right next ta tha Arena and Kray’s office…I believe.”

As he worked, Rahn addressed the rest of the issues at hand.

"Aye, I agree. After we are tended to by the healers, I recommend we retreat to the Asylum for a proper rest. At dawn, I suggest we identify and manage some of the unknown items we have acquired, for they may hide a key to our understanding of our current situation and ability to deal with it."

At this point, the beguiler paused momentarily as his growing conscience caught him.

"And after that, I humbly request that we deal with the orcs that we brought back to town that are now at the mercy of the local authorities. We really need to ensure that this is handled properly."

"Rahn, I think it was you who said this, and perhaps it's simply an oversight, or my faulty memory, but I don't recall hearing that authorities here in town might be in on Keeg's activities, or the Horde's, as the case might be. Could you explain further?"

At Mule's question, the almar elaborated further.

"Just before we brought the orcs back down the river, one of them hinted that the local authorities here had spies within them that aligned with the Horde. Also, I overheard the barkeep at the inn...where we met Keeg...note that he...Keeg...had potentially powerful allies among the city leaders. However, if Gragham really believes we should bring this matter to the attention of the authorities, then I will not oppose him...for I trust his guidance. Grag...just think carefully upon this matter. If you decide we should do this, then I recommend we do this after we visit the temple and before we rest at the Anvil. I trust your decision here."

When everyone is ready Carlyle will begin to wind his way towards the north, trying his best to avoid any high traffic areas. He will also search his memory trying to drag up anything about what Faun might have done to him.

At this point, the almar was more than happy to follow Carlyle to their destination.

[Ravenwind]

Mule gave Gragham one very worried look. "No, I didn't see anything happen to your axe, Master Ironbeard, but since you were holding it, and are intimately more well-acquainted with it, I take your word for it that something has happened to it. Perhaps the priests at the mission can cleanse it, if it's needed. Better that, than to walk about with a weapon contaminated with demonic energies."

She mulled it over in her mind as they walked, trying to think of any stories she'd ever heard about demons possessing weapons, or turning them against their owners, and shuddered a little to herself.

Kn. Arcane:

Dice * Roll:

(as this is an older post, these rolls are interpreted by the older (more basic) dice roller code)
d20+1:	(4) + 1	Total = 5

Kn. Planes:

Dice * Roll:

(as this is an older post, these rolls are interpreted by the older (more basic) dice roller code)
d20+1:	(8) + 1	Total = 9

She also was worried for Carlyle and whatever demonic influence he, too, might be suffering. Though most of her understanding of disease was grounded in this world, she tried to remember any tales her father had told her that might relate, as well. "It might help, Master Carlyle, if you could describe how you're feeling right now. Headache, dry-mouth, nausea, weakness, seeing things that aren't there, dizziness?"

Kn. Planes:

Dice * Roll:

(as this is an older post, these rolls are interpreted by the older (more basic) dice roller code)
d20+1:	(10) + 1	Total = 11

OCC: lol, what a druid. Yep, if it's not from this world, she knows NOTHING! Nothing, I tell you!

[Vintar]

”Hmmpf, well I dunno if I wanner entrust me axe ter sum unknown priest: if sum o’ dem even hear dem word ‘tainted’ dey prob’ly jus’ wanner destroy it nay matter what…”, The dwarf muttered softly, knowing all too well that his deep voice would otherwise reach far beyond his companions and might be heard by unwelcome ears. He trundled along behind his companions, looking back now and then to check if they hadn’t been spotted. ”Carlyle, be dis eh Ka’Los temple? Dat be… assuring, if it be so. Prob’ly less inquiring an’ more ehppreciative too, when we come up asking ‘em ter examine ye fer demon wounds.”

Gragham felt somewhat better after having been knitted up a bit with Rahn’s magic, and he had given his thanks for that in an appreciative rumble. He was glad that the others looked reasonably okay: even Carlyle seemed fine, though perhaps a bit unsure and disoriented at times. Still, if her lackey could possibly taint his axe, what could Faun herself have done to his friend? He hoped it was something that could be healed without having to cross the lands in search of some elitist high priest…

When Rahn answered Ellesaria’s question, Gragham nodded in agreement: ”Aye, dem orcs told us, r’member?”, he chimed in. ”…As fer dem authorities, dem lad who wrote dem diary I found, yennow, Clem’s brodder, den ‘un wid dem shield? Well it mentioned dem name ‘Shyloe’… Now, jus’ let it happen ter be dat ehn influential lord be in dem city council wid dem name: ‘Shyloe Lassiter’. Aye, it could be eh coincidence, but now, wid what we know, I be startin’ ter doubt dem word ‘coincidence’…”

For a moment, the dwarf fell silent, contemplating the dilemma he was facing. ”So… dem town council prob’ly be eh viper’s nest, but we gotter warn dem good folk o’ Asylum anneway… I meself was thinkin’ bout dat captain o’ dem guard, Walthas Kang, ter alert him o’dem warehouse: he be able ter round em up an’ confirm wid him own eyes what we found… Wid him ter back us story, I be able ter send eh runner from dem Anvil ter Lord Mayor Timertikos an’ request eh meeting b’fore dem entire city council… Wid dem whole council and town guard alerted, eh spy would ‘ave little chance ter manipulate odders without raisin’suspicion; we might even be able ter trap ‘im…”

Gragham’s harsh whispering ended in a gasp; it was tiring to follow the large strides of the others and speak this way at the same time.

[Sombrero]

Carlyle shakes his head “Nah…no headache or dizziness…I just kind o’ feel tired and weaker…” the rouge pauses mid sentence to peer around the corner of a building before continuing “…not quite as nimble. Ya know I weren’t feelin’ too tired after we finished fightin’ that priest an all. But when Faun started ta kiss me I was thinkin’ it was gonna be good...But then all o’ a sudden I felt like I had run a couple o’ leagues and then fought all of ‘em by myself.”

After explaining how he was feeling he concentrated on getting to the Mission, letting the others discuss what to do after they were done at the temple, and only jumping into the conversation when Gragham ask him about the Giver’s Mission. “Don’t know if it Ka’Los, No’Mos or what…Rahn, it’s close ta tha Kray offices do you know?”

Actions spot and listen for the heck of it (-1 modifier included) Spot: Dice Roll: (as this is an older post, these rolls are interpreted by the older (more basic) dice roller code) d20+3: (6) + 3 Total = 9 Listen: Dice Roll: (as this is an older post, these rolls are interpreted by the older (more basic) dice roller code) d20: 1

[BraveSirRobin]

As quickly and quietly as possible, the group enters the alleyway, constantly on the look out for the men that had been previously guarding the doors. Staying out of the open they move from alley to alley and carefully make their way to the northern section of the city. Before losing sight of the warehouse, however, they did notice some familiar faces outside of the place. It was quite possible that they had been outside in the square looking for the party all this time.

The group could relax some when they were safely out of view and talked about future plans and Carlyle's possible afflictions. The best that anyone could guess is that he had some demonic form of syphils or some such, but what did they know of such things? Obviously not much. In fact, Mule even had a thought that such a thing might be transferable through an inanimate object, such as an axe. Afterall, who knew what these vile outsiders were capable of.

After some time navigating the busy streets, with many giving the haggared group a wide berth, the party comes into view of the large building that serves as the Church of Ka'Los and city infirmary. If the Life Giver symbols over the front entrance weren't a good enough indicator of the building's purpose, the loitering crowd of old, poor and maimed about the place made it clear. The building itself was a rather secure and well maintained looking keep. There was little in the way of guards however, but there were several white robed men and women that served bread and water to the poor and did their best to comfort the suffering.

As the party approached the building they could hear many lamenting that customary healings had been administered for the day. A portly acolyte just happened to notice the group at this time and noticing their many wounds, shuffled over to see them. My goodness...are you allright?. While Rahn did his best to clean them up and Mule to bandage them, the wounds were still clear. What happened? You didn't walk here did you? Please come inside. We are done with healings for the day but there is probably something we can do for you. Father Babbet is inside. The acolyte pushed them through the door into a large room, lined with beds and many more wounded and suffering inside. A soup kitchen lined the left side of the room and several doors stood at the back. He eventually led them to a section of open beds near the rear and had them wait.
A moment or two later he returned with a tall middle aged man dressed in a simple grey robe. He looked tired. What happened? He started with worry in his voice and a scowl on his face. These look like combat wounds? Did these happen on the river? Were you attacked?

Time: Afternoon
Day: Kerneste Day
Date: 4th of Wintersmonth
Lighting: Daylight
Conditions: Cold
Status:
Rahn: 35/35
Gragham: 36/81
Carlyle: 27/33 (one negative level, -1 all rolls, -5hps)
Mule: 24/31
Rokhea: 28/32

[Rahn Dahle]

Rahn was quite pleased when the group traversed the alleyways to safety without having to battle any more minions of Faun, Keeg or the Horde. However, he thought he recognized some faces along the path as part of the team in search of them.

They must still be after us...I guess that is to be expected. But, Carlyle definitely knows his way through the shadows! I do not know what we would do without his guidance...especially since I have no magic left to conceal us all.

With the threat of battle apparently low now, Rahn focused upon the conversation regarding Gragham's axe. Mule had a good suggestion, but the dwarf seemed worried about the risk it would place on his family heirloom.

"I understand your concern Gragham. Perhaps your weapon forging skills in conjunction with my friend would be a proper first step to take. If it is beyond those means, then we can always come back to the temple if necessary."


When the discussion came back to the situation with the authorities, the almar listened intently to the warrior's opinion.

Ah...I had completely forgotten about the journal and 'Shoyle'!

"You speak the truth Master Dwarf. I had totally forgotten about the diary in all of this chaos! Eh, we would be wise to speak that name mentioned..."the influential lord"...as little as possible in public for the time being. However, I agree with the rest of your plan and the hypothesis that coincidence has little to do with things in this regard."

Rahn bit his lower lip and repeated the dwarf's words in his mind once again.

"Thus, as you suggest, if we can find a way to alert the entire town to the threat, without burying our information within the hands of the town council, then we may be able to keep the conspirators from spinning the situation. Furthermore, as you say, we may even be able to draw them out. With the wise use of a 'runner'...and the reliance upon the honest witness of Walthas Kang...I do believe your plan could succeed....brilliant!"

Rahn smiled in disbelief...yet with much approval.

How could this hardened warrior contrive a plan so crafty that I had not even the slightest inklings of it? Hmmm...rivers often run deeper than they appear from the shore.

"Do I understand your suggestion correctly Gragham? If so, I heartily agree!"

Before Gragham could reply to his attempted rehashing of the plan, the almar's attention was caught by the other conversation at hand...namely, Carlyle's dilemma. When the human explained his symptoms, Rahn recalled his days as a male Pink Pony and some of the risks associated with such a profession.

“Nah…no headache or dizziness…I just kind o’ feel tired and weaker…” the rouge pauses mid sentence to peer around the corner of a building before continuing “…not quite as nimble. Ya know I weren’t feelin’ too tired after we finished fightin’ that priest an all. But when Faun started ta kiss me I was thinkin’ it was gonna be good...But then all o’ a sudden I felt like I had run a couple o’ leagues and then fought all of ‘em by myself.”

With nary a pause, the beguiler spoke from his own experience.

"Ah...that my friend sounds awfully similar to the effects of over exertion in the carnal arena! I cannot tell you the number of times I have had to deal with such things. Think about it. Have you not had similar experiences with women before? Have you not felt weak kneed, energy sapped and battle wearied from prolonged romantic endeavors? It is always the same! As you say, going into such things it seems quite appealing...but afterwards...argh...things change! In the end, in fact, a battalion is what you have fought! You my friend need to visit a local acquaintance of mine. He has a salve that should put the giddy up back into your go so to speak! Hahahah!"

After his mirth had subsided, the ex-Pony confirmed the question on the temple.

"Ah yes, I know the place. It is a temple of Ka'Los."

When the acolyte welcomed the group, Rahn bowed politely and replied with simplicity so that he would not divulge too much at this time.

"Thank you for your generous offer of aid. We have had some minor difficulties, but it is nothing to be alarmed about. Anything you can offer will be much appreciated."

OOC: Diplomacy: Dice Roll: (as this is an older post, these rolls are interpreted by the older (more basic) dice roller code) d20+15: (12) + 15 Total = 27 Bluff (in regards to "minor difficulties" and "nothing to be alarmed about": Dice Roll: (as this is an older post, these rolls are interpreted by the older (more basic) dice roller code) d20+13: (9) + 13 Total = 22 Since we do not want to alert any of the public to this threat until our plan is in place.

[Ravenwind]

Mule's eyebrows went up, and she shook her head slightly. "Master Dahl, you jest--you mean it perhaps kindly--but I have never heard of any disease that passed between people with but a kiss." Her disagreement was mild, and her expression remained worried, and she looked away in mild distaste of the jokes made at Carlyle's expense when the tall human was so evidently concerned for his health.

She turned her attention to Gragham. "Your words are wise," she said simply. "You know this land and its ways well, and I will trust your judgment of the people in it."

On entering the house of Ka'los, Mule respectfully raised the hood of her cloak to cover her hair. She didn't feel entirely comfortable in this enclosed place, intended as it was for worship, but the kindly faces and concern reassured her. All of the gods had their place in the balance, of course, but she felt that clerics of No'mos had gained too much power in the world, throwing it *out* of that rightful balance. As such, she was relaxed here, though still every so slightly uncomfortable, feeling, as always, out of place.

[BraveSirRobin]

The priest's expression turns stoic as he sighs inwardly. If you say so sir. He dosen't seem convinced by Rahn's evasion, but doesn't seem ready to argue. One could imagine that he probably has experience with those wishing to keep the cause of their wounds secret. In that case, I don't have much to offer you. We have no more blessings for such wounds today and it looks as if you have done a fine job of bandaging to stop the bleeding and prevent infection. You can return in the morning and we can heal what wounds you have or you are free to stay here the evening, if you have no place else. All those that seek peace and rest are welcome. He stands up and looks at the party as if waiting for them to respond before he moves on to the next patient. It is a busy place and he has no time to spend with those that think their wounds are "minor".

[Ravenwind]

Mule spoke softly, respectfully. "Not all our wounds are evident, brother. We're afraid that Master Carlyle here," she nodded to the human, "has some form of malady. We suspect it is otherworldly in origin, so he needs to be examined by an expert immediately, even if no healing can be offered today. I can bandage wounds, but I cannot bandage the soul."

Rahn's caution be damned. Who knows what she did to him? If the bone demon could jump into Gragham's axe, could the succubus jump into Carlyle's body, infiltrate us from within?

[Vintar]

Gragham nodded when the others voiced their opinions about his tactics to alert the city of the growing threat beyond –and within- its walls. ”Aye, dat be exactly how I wanner awake Asylum an’ get her ter ready herself fer whaddever be commin’…” His voice fell silent for a few moments. ”…But I nay be able ter handle dis kind o’ trouble as well as I be able ter spot it… I speak blunt an’ honest, ye know dat. It means dat fencin’ wid words nay be me best talent; eh man as yerself ‘owever… well if I ever thought dat some ‘un be able ter honeycoat eh bush o’ brambles, it be yerself, Rahn. I hope ye do me dem honour o’ bein’ me co-speaker, if we ever make it b’fore dem city council. Ka’Los knows I be needin’it.”

The winding alleyways suddenly made way for the broad and public streets, relief lightened the ever-present concern off his shoulders and the dwarf found he could breath easier again. He couldn’t help but break into a fit of helpless laughter at Rahn’s jovial explanation of Carlyle’s weariness. ”Oh, by dem sweet gods…”, he wheezed, clutching his aching side, ”…If jus’ one kiss can drain eh lad, ehmagine what army it be takin’ ter bed dat wench!” He stopped for a moment, shaking as the tears streamed down his face. ”…Ohoho… Rahn… ye nay should make… eh wounded… lad laugh like… dat!”, he gasped, trying to get a hold of himself again. The dwarf noted the mild annoyance in the voice of the woman in their midst and couldn’t help blurting out a few more chuckles. ”Ah, me ehpologies, Ellesaria… it be a bloke thing, I guess… even Carlyle gotter ehppreciate dem irony o’ it all, bein’ fancied by eh devlish girl like Faun: nay ‘un can’t deny dat ye bagged yerself eh beauty, lad…” He gave the servant girl scuttling out of their path a hearty wink, then grinned back at Carlyle.

Once they reached the steps of the temple, Gragham was able to breath normally again. His face fell when seeing the crowd of the ill and the poor, and before he knew it, a score of silvers had left his purse to be placed into the hands of those that seemed in most need. Then, wondering shamefully if he hadn’t done that just to buy himself some time, he hesitantly followed the others inside.

The atmosphere inside was soothing, and Father Babbet’s voice reassuring. He studied the man intently as Rahn artfully dodged his way to avoid yielding too much information… It seemed that he had even been too careful. Ellesaria, evidently sharing his opinion, gave the good man some added information. ”Aye, it be more den physical wounds… Fer one o’ us, at least. Do ye ‘ave sum place more… private… ter advise us?”

ooc Donating 20 silvers outside and trying to decide if Gragham finds the father trustworthy (sense motive):

Dice Roll:

(as this is an older post, these rolls are interpreted by the older (more basic) dice roller code)
d20-1:	(9) - 1	Total = 8

[BraveSirRobin]

The priest's face turned from detached stoicism to instant concern. Otherwordly? He repeated to mule as if to confirm that he heard rightly. He then turned at Gragham's remarks and nodded in agreement. Come. Let me take a look.

He led them through a set of double doors into a long, well lit hall. The hall was lined with several doors and Father Babbet led them to the third one on the left, which he opened and asked them to step through. Doing as asked, the party entered a spartan office. In fact, there was nothing but a desk and several chairs. If this was Father Babbet's office, it looked like he almost never used it.

Now who has this malady and tell me how you came accross it. There was a tad bit of skeptisism in his voice but he appeared to be taking the matter seriously.

[Ravenwind]

Mule's heavy brows knitted. So far today, she'd trusted once, and been burned once. However, this kindly-faced man was a priest of Ka'los, in a temple of Ka'los. She did not think he would cause them harm. It would go against the ethos of Ka'los.

Sense motive:

Dice Roll:

(as this is an older post, these rolls are interpreted by the older (more basic) dice roller code)
d20+4:	(17) + 4	Total = 21

"Forgive us, brother, if we seem wary. I am uncertain of the ways of this town, and we have had. . . a very trying day. We intend to present this matter to the authorities--a Master. . . Kang? I believe you said?" She turned towards Gragham to confirm that she'd gotten the name right. She continued, thoughtfully, "I do not know if in this place, telling you the whole of the tale would bias you, if you were asked to help in any investigation. Such is not our intent. But what I will tell you is the truth, if not the whole tale. Will that suffice?"

She waited a moment, looked at Rahn, as if for guidance for a moment, then explained, "Early this morning, the Anvil, Master Ironbeard's residence, was broken into by a young girl who called herself Faun. She very convincingly played on our sympathies, saying that she'd been sent to us by a man who controlled a gang of thieves. I don't know if I should tell you his name or not, or if that would be prejudicial. We gave her gold and suggested she should leave town for her own safety, and then went to meet with this man. In doing so, we were informed that she'd been captured, interrogated--beaten, we presumed--and was still being held in a warehouse. We felt an obligation to rescue her, if possible, and there were indications that this gang of thieves might be something more."

Mule let that thread of the tale go. If he wanted to know more, he might ask, but for the moment, till more trust was established between them all, he didn't need the fine details. "We entered the warehouse where she was being kept, and were surprised by six men, some with repeating crossbows, who were not very happy to see us." Or not see us, as the case was. "There was a fight, and we spared those whom we could. On finding Faun in a locked chamber, she insisted that she'd been interrogated by magic means, in a room hidden under the warehouse. One of the guards said he had never seen such a thing, but she opened a hidden door to a foul altar, smeared with blood, where a priest performed abominations, such as raising the dead to attack us. He attacked, we fought, and, as Faun had insisted--perhaps too strongly--that the crystal on the altar was meant to summon something worse, we broke it at her word. Master Dahl, could you substantiate my claims, please? We have some evidence, though I apologize for profaning your sacred place with such things." Mule's voice was filled with distaste. Yes, so-called "evil" was a force among others in the universe, to be respected. But the raising of the dead? Unnatural and foul, and she could not forget it. She was careful not to mention which items were the evidence she spoke of, leaving it to Rahn to decide if both chalice and book should be produced.

"Faun acted strangely, suddenly kissing Master Carlyle. She demanded something from us, very out of character for the young girl she seemed to be, and we refused her. She assumed her real form then--a beautiful woman, with wings, a tail. Faint hint of brimstone. She mocked us, bandied words with us," Mule's voice hesitated, pained at the recollection, "then vanished, leaving in her place a demonic. . . thing. . . made all of bones. One thing led to another, and, as you can see. . . " she gestured at her own wounds, Rokhea's, Gragham's, Rahn's, Carlyle's. . . ."It has been a very bad day."

She thought about it carefully. She hadn't mentioned any names or locations. She hadn't mentioned the Horde or the rod. She would leave it to the others to reveal these things, if they felt the man warranted further trust. But this much trust, he had to have, to understand Carlyle's condition, and heal him properly.

[Sombrero]

During the jaunt through the city Carlyle was aware of the mirth that Grag and Rahn were having at his expense, and though he did not see quite as much humor in it as they did, (only because it was he who was afflicted) he did not let it get to him. Instead he focused on getting to the temple where he might be helped. “Thanks Ell…it’s o.k. they’re only tryin’ ta lighten tha mood.” he says when the druid comes to his defense.

The rogue sits quietly as Mule explains the events leading up to his malady, only adding his details of the symptoms at the end. “I all of a sudden felt tired and weaker…and not quite as quick or nimble.” he says looking at the priest with a hopeful look in his eyes.

[BraveSirRobin]

Concern crossed Father Babbet's face as Mule began their story in detail. When he heard her mention the Anvil and point to Gragham, he stopped her briefly to acknowledge him. Ahhh...so you must be the new emissary? The Anvil and our church have had a very good relationship in the past. I am very pleased to meet you. As she went on, however, the dark circles under his eyes seemed to grow until he looked absolutely exhausted by the end. When she was done, he paused to rub his eyes as he started. What you are telling me is that there is a demon...here...in Asylum? And that you all encountered it. Is that right? He shook his head in what looked like either anger or frustration, but when he spoke his tone remained calm and steady. If what you say is true, then things have become worse then I could ever of thought. Gangs using dark magic. Summoning demons? I...I...It is startling frankly. You said you have evidence of its summoning? Please let me see.

He then turns to have a closer look at Carlyle. You say her kiss made you weak? It sounds like a succubus. Their kiss has the ability to drain a persons essense. He looks him over, up and down, staring deep into his eyes, his blood shot eyes trying to stare into Carlyle's soul. How long ago did you say this happened? If it is recent enough then we should still be able to reverse it. You might be strong enough to fight it off yourself but there is no reason to take any chances. Are you all sure nobody else was effected? She didn't kiss anyone else did she?

It certainly sounded like he believed them. Judging by his demeanor and the way he ran his church, he seemed like a good man. Mule could also sense that he was the type of person that carried the wieght of the community on his shoulders and that he had probably already taken on more then he should. He was stressed but did his best to hide it.