Guudwyn Valoenus's page

Guudwyn looks at the pair in front of him. They are obviously scared and out of options. “Please gentleman, we must keep a clear head on our shoulders. We currently have a friend of ours preparing magic to destroy the body, thus leaving no evidence. Now, this is not an appealing option, but it is a good one. Another option would be to load the body onto a cart, hide it, and take it out of town for burial. This option would require your equipment and help. We would need to know the best way out of town that would not cause suspicion, and a suitable destination. And, we still need to know who exactly we are dealing with, and what caused these unfortunate circumstances.” Guudwyn looks at his companions to throw other options that they might have in mind. He then turns back around and says, “It is very important that we also find Master Sureblood’s cart.”

Another Diplomacy Check, if required, (Roll 15+8=23)

“Master Gibblegotter,” Guudwyn looks at the man and starts with an attempted comforting tone. “You have been through quite an ordeal. Please understand that when my companions intervened they had good intentions. I cannot change time and make this go away, but maybe we can help each other.” Guudwyn then put his hands on the man’s shoulders, “First, I must understand what your conflict with the man was about. Please be honest and forthcoming with all information. This is a critical stage in the events that will no doubt unfold in the near future. We need to know what the argument was about that had the man threatening you. Also, we need to know who he was working for. We need to know what we are up against.”

Guudwyn then drops his hands, looks at his companions, then back to Master Gibblegotter, “Trust us. We need to help each other right now.” Guudwyn then pauses slightly before he continues, “I have one more question. Where is Master Sureblood’s cart?”

Diplomacy Check (Roll 5+8=13)

Before leaving, Guudwyn looks at the Gnome and Halfling. "Coming or Staying?" Then he shuts the door behind him and follows Xanros and Rasmus.

"I must also mention that the ring, as Boeler mentioned, was not made for this man. He could have been an imposter. More likely though, considering the blood and dead skin on its interior, he killed the original owner to move up in the ranks of this band of rogues."

Xanros looks to Guudwyn and Rasmus "First off if one of us goes up there can either of you two heal us if we get our head caved in half way up?"

“Alas, Heironeous’s blessing on me is almost spent for the day. You are right though , in such a tight, potentially dangerous area, an inspection would not be wise. I do agree with Rasmus that we should make haste to the wagon maker. After examining the markings on the ring more closely, I am able to recall a rumor that past through Crag regarding Barren Falls a few years ago. I fear we may have opened up the dragon’s mouth. The markings on the ring display the sign of the Evening Stars, a group we now know to be more than rumor. The rumor also states that they are well-organized and led by an individual known only as Nightstar.”

Then Guudwyn goes on to say, “I believe we have an obligation to protect the wagon maker. We also still need to look at Sureblood’s wagon compartment. Heironeous demands action, I must provide. If Boeler feels the need to rest, maybe he can watch over our resting friend, and the three of us make haste. What say you?”

"Hey Boeler, how would you feel if we hoisted you up there to take a look?" Guudwyn looks above referencing the illusory ceiling.

"I will stand in the hallway with the door slightly ajar. This way I will be able to keep an eye on the room and have a better chance of hearing you if I am needed. Also, If you do find our sneak, try to flush him my way and our little spy will be trapped."

"I will stay here and keep watch over our resting friend. I fear I will only get in the way on a mission of stealth. When you return, should we meet with the guards or would it be prudent to meet with the wagon maker first?"

After Rasmus is finished his spell, Guudwyn also examines the items. He pays close attention to the marking on the signet ring and the intricate designwork on the hilt of the shortsword.

Knowledge-History (Roll 1+3=4) Knowledge-Local (Roll 19+3=22)

Guudwyn shakes his head in agreement, then nods at Xanros in explanation that this is his expertise and he should lead. Then speaking softly, "We should also make tracks back to the cart maker. We still have not examined the cart, and we now have a body and a witness to consider."

Guudwyn is at a loss. In a crime filled place like this, Xanros's action was self-defense. Especially after seeing Boeler's wounds. But now the dilemma is, what to do with the body? This was a new problem for Guudwyn. None of his training prepared him for this.

As he listens to Xanros relay the story, he stands there in complete shock then says, "Oh my. As we are now short on time and long on enemies, Heironeous demands action.” Once again, Guudwyn takes off his cloak and covers the chair and table. He also unbuckles his sword and sheath. Keeping the sword in its sheath, he steps on the table using it to poke above the ceiling.

if a roll is needed for some type of attack/search hybrid (roll 18) not sure what modifiers or penalties to add. If Guudwyn finds nothing, he will stick his head above the ceiling if he is able.

The door opens. Guudwyn turns and wraps his hand around the hilt of his longsword waiting to see who will enter. When Xanros bursts in slowly followed by a pale, but otherwise emotionless, Boeler wrapped in blood soaked rags, Guudwyn quickly responds to the Halfling. “What happened?” Guudwyn quickly closes the door as Boeler enters the room. He then reaches into the folds of his cloak to grasp his holy symbol and call upon the aid of Heironeous. Guudwyn then looks up, somewhat shocked, at Xanros for answers.

using last 1st level spell to spontaneous cast clw. HP cured (4+1=5)

"Just a thought," Guudwyn starts to pace with his right index finger in the air. Then he starts to wag it up and down, “I am not sure if we could trust him, but,” he stops pacing and moving his finger and raises his hand in the air, “if we are discreet, we could eventually head back to the Axe and Anvil.” He points at the wall toward where the Inn would be, if they were outside. “The proprieter, Krellish, seemed like he was a wealth of information. And it appears he has no love for the current government.” Guudwyn looks at Rasmus with a knowing smile. “Also, it seems like he may have other contacts as well. I recall him mentioning someone named Flavian. We might be able to ask him about any rumors regarding organizations involved with or sharing an interest in Dreskana." Guudwyn then looks left and right to capture eye contact with his companions. "Do you think this might be a feasible plan also?"

"Well, we must put trust in our companions. If they do not return in the allotted three hours, then we will search them out. In the mean time, any thoughts on what orginzation may have purchased the guards' loyalty and had them steal from the merchant, if in deed they did this act?"

are there any well-known organizations or guilds throughout Ildonia that an incident like this would point towards?

"No thank you. I do have a thought on how to question the guards. I beleive that one of us should watch them for a day or so and then question them once we have more information."

"That is an excellent thought. Sounds like another task for Xanros or Boeler, unless, of course, your skills would aid in this task. I know that I would be spotted from a quarter mile away." He looks at Rasmus thinking the same thing about his dark friend.

Guudwyn opens his eyes after an hour of praying. Feeling relaxed and awakend, he sits up from the table and walks over and pours himself some left over juice. After taking a few small drinks and adding a piece bread to his snack, he gathers his companions' attention and asks, "Gimble. Rasmus. If our investigation comes up empty with the wagon maker, the next step, I believe, would be to question Sureblood's guards. Any thoughts on our approach and what questions to ask?"

Guudwyn then empties the contents of his glass, sets it down and pours himself another. He then profers the container to his companions. "Interested in a refreshment?"

Releasing the grip with a smile and nod, Guudwyn says, "Rasmus, we now have some time until Xanros and Boehler return. We should get some rest, but first let us pray". Guudwyn walks to the table and sits. He reaches in to grasp his holy symbol, closes his eyes, and prays.

"I am honored to be travelling with another devout champion of Heironeous. I am sure that he brought us together for a reason. Let us not dissuaded by the foolish words of others. We shall make a strong force to be sure. This town, the temple of screams, and the baron himself will surely regret their past wrongdoings one day."

Returning his look at Rasmus, Guudwyn gives a satisfied smile and a head nod. "It is I who is honored, my friend Rasmus. Perhaps your sudden appearence on the same road I was on is by no mere chance. You are right. Together we will right the wrongs of injustice and tyranny. Together, we will bring the word of Heironeous to these people, and they will stand and find their courage. Then evil will retreat into the bowls of the hells where it belongs."

Guudwyn then extends an arm to clasp Rasmus, hand to forearm, showing a righteous smile.

About 10 minutes after the conversation with the merchant is concluded, his guard knocks on the door, hands you a small pouch and a mapcase, nods, and leaves. Inside the pouch are the promised 50gp and the mapcase contains short notes of introduction to each of of the three shopowners and are affixed with the merchant's personal seal. The gold pieces are Dreskanen Crowns with their typical sword over shield stamping.

After the guard leaves, Guudwyn opens the pouch and empties its contents onto the table. Counting out five piles of ten gold pieces, he distributes the retainer fee evenly to each of his companions.

"Now, lets look forward to a successful mission," he says as he pockets his share. On his mind is his share of 100 gold pieces, he thinks, 'This will be a good start to building the shrine and truly initiating my mission.'

Looking up from my reading when Guudwyn holds his holy symbol up I hiss "Put that away you idiot! Knowledge is power and the less that is shown of us the better." in an irritated voice, letting my eyes flicker towards the ceiling for a brief moment to illustrate my point.

Kicked away from his thoughts by the insult, Guudwyn turns toward Gimble. Then he realizes Gimble's point regarding the ceiling, and quickly stows his holy symbol. Inwardly, chastising himself for letting his emotions momentarily take control when action and clear thought is called for. Then he thinks, 'One of these days, I will proudly display this symbol freely. Today is not the day though. My mission must come first, and it must succeed.'

After putting his holy symbol away, he gives Gimble an apologetic nod. He turns to Rasmus and says, "I hope Xanros and Boeler are doing fine." He then helps himself to some of the remaining food, not wanting anything to be wasted.

Guudwyn eyes Rasmus pensively. Then, speaking in a low even tone, "Barren Falls is not much different than Crag, where I grew up.” His mouth, lower chin, and upper lip momentarily contort as he thinks about the evil in the world, then resuming his thought, “ Evil is everywhere, and the touch of The Invincible One does not reach far enough.,” His right arm stretches out in a horizontal circle, left to right, then stops straight in front of him, his elbow bending, and his fist tightening. “The shrine, where I learned my prayers, is where I studied." Guudwyn stops for a moment to nod at Gimble, using the gnome reading as a prop for his explanation of studying. Then he continues, “Abbott Crusadon is a wise man and found that I learned fast. I was never the strongest or the fastest, but he recognized that I could talk to people, deescalate situations, and I had strong faith. Actually“ Guudwyn stops, reaches into the folds of his cloths, produces his holy symbol, and lifts it in the air, “the faith part came first. I was only a boy, but I saved a young girl during a storm when a tree fell on her. I pulled her out of the storm and prayed over her. I was just a boy, but I felt the touch of Heironeous and healed her. “ He stops and displays a heartful smile, a tear forming in his left eye. “The feeling was amazing and very spiritual. It was then, that I was to be a Cleric of Heironeous.” Guudwyn gives his head a strong nod at this statement. “And, Abbott Crusadon, recognizing my power with words, trained me and guided my speech and education. I learned, it is not always what you say, but how you say it. As Abbott Crusadon used to say,” Guudwyn’s voice gets slightly deeper and hoarse, “ ‘You always want to study your audience first, then you perform the first act’.” His voice now returning to normal, “This is where and why I am who I am.”

"So it is agreed. We will inspect the wagon for clues, then speak to the wagonmaker. If need be after that, we will have a nice little chat with Sureblood's guard detail. Let's eat up, and build our strength before our next foray into Barren Falls". He then selects some bread and cheese to try.

Guudwyn steps down from the table and chair and puts his cloak back on. He thinks about sticking his head above the ceiling to see what is there, but he decides to avoid the potential 'stick a dagger in your eye trick.' He believes he did the best he could to keep spoken information to a minimum, and that will have to do.

He turns to his companions after repositioning his cloak, "Well, we should not let this excellent food go to waste. After we eat and the merchant's guard returns with the requested items, should we be on our way to the wagon maker or is there a better thought? Oh, and while we are eating and waiting, let's review this sketch and find out what we collectively know about the object." Guudwyn flattens out the drawing, then starts preparing a plate of food.

pertaining to reviewing the drawing, information from knowledge checks in above post

"I have never seen a spread of food like this." Guudwyn picks a grape off of the vine and pops it in his mouth."

Guudwyn nods at his companions, thankful that they are pleased with the contract and the results of the interaction with the merchant. Thinking to himself, 'My first real negotiation. All those years learning and training have brought positive results.'

Guudwyn then takes off his cloak and arranges it in on the chair and table below the ceiling in a way that he can step on his cloak and not the furniture. He then puts his index finger to puckered lips to request silence. His head closing the gap to the ceiling, he tilts his head and listens.

Discerning that the merchant will not give more information about his contacts pertaining to the rod, Guudwyn decides not to inquire further. He does glance at his companions, just in case they have something to add.

Then Guudwyn becomes quite bewildered after learning about the special binding between Sureblood and his guard. He could understand fealty and sacrifice for one's deity, but to pledge such a deep level of surrender to another mortal was troubling.

Guudwyn was positive that evil could bring about disease and suffering. When the merchant questions Guudwyn on this, he merely states, "With all of the great evil in the world, disease does exist. Now if this was a disease your men came down with, or if it was thrust upon them like a curse, I could not say." Guudwyn thinks to himself, it could be possible though and probably likely.

Guudwyn goes on to say, "Fear not the relationship you have with your vendors. We will use tact and show respect. I do not believe guards will be necessary to meet us there." Guudwyn thinks, it would be better to question these vendors in private. "Though, I would appreciate it if you could provide us with letters of introduction allowing us to inspect your property," Guudwyn goes on to say.

At the confirmation that his monetary request was accepted, Guudwyn smiles and says, "Thank you for meeting with us Master Sureblood. Your company has been delightful. I am sure you would like some rest after your meal. I will be in contact when we have information regarding our search or if we need your assistance. When your man returns with the retainer and letters of introduction, we will start our investigation."

Once Sureblood and guard leave the room, Guudwyn gathers his companions and quietly says, "I hope I handled that well, and I hope you are satisfied with the contract I have negotiated. After a few more matters of business here," Guudwyn's eyes turn to the ceiling, "I believe that we should start by examining the wagon and questioning its manufacturer. What do you all think?"

Guudwyn picks up the parchment the merchant returns and reviews the drawing and pertinent details.

looking over the drawing, if necessary, some knowledge checks: Arcana (roll 10+3=13), History (roll 20+3=23), The Planes (roll 12+3=15),
Religion (roll 1+6=7), Local (roll 10+3=13) makes sense, I'm a cleric of course I would roll 1 on a religion check

After examining the document, Guudwyn raises his eyes to look at Master Sureblood. He then glances at the guard, back to Sureblood, then to the guard again. To the guard he says, "Please take no offense, but..."

Guudwyn's eyes repostion back on the rotund merchant and inquires, "Can he be trusted?"

for game purposes, so others can get reinvolved, unless you prefer otherwise, I will assume that either the guard can be trusted, Sureblood asks the guard to step outside, or Sureblood & Guudwyn take the conversation into one of the other rooms. I hope this is ok with our gracious DM

I have a few questions for you. You said you had to replace two guards in Carik, due to illness?

more knowledge checks, if necessary, RE: town of Carik: History (roll 8+3=11), Local (roll 11+3=14)

Can you explain the nature of the illness?

not sure if the Heal skill can be used as a knowledge check, but I like to roll dice. I want to see if my Heal skill will help me determine the nature of the illness by listening to the patients' symptoms (ie: poisoning, fever). Heal check (roll 9+4=13)

Also, you mentioned that you get all of your wagon work done right here in Barren Falls. Did the craftsman know about the secret department? If so, who was the craftsman and where can we find him for questioning?

I would also like to examine the cart just incase the thief left any clues behind. Will your guards be available for questioning, if the need arises?

Lastly, we will need to discuss payment. We will need a retainer fee to help cover some up-front costs. We may need to pay some locals for information. I am requesting a retainer fee of 50 gold pieces. This fee will be split among my party. At a successful conclusion to this matter, we will require another 500 gold pieces. Guudwyn smiles with a thoughtful expression.

diplomacy check (roll 12+8=20)

just curious, Guudwyn may want to check out the ceiling after the merchant leaves. can it be reached by standing on a chair or the table. Also after the merchant leaves, I would like to make a listen check and find out if I can here anyone moving around up there
Listen check (roll 11+3=14)

"Welcome Master Sureblood," Guudwyn gives a formal bow as the merchant enters the room. Then with a smile, "I am pleased that you have received my letter and accepted the invitation." With a wave of his hand toward the food table, "Please help yourself to the fine food and drink provided by our gracious hosts. I understand that you are a busy man and a business man, so I will state my propostion." Guudwyn walks over to an end table, picks it up, and sets it by the merchant. He then retrieves the fresh parchment and pen, sets it on the table, and has a seat in the closet chair facing the merchant preparing for a casual conversation. "I understand that something of value was taken from you this morning. I propose to help find this item. If I could trouble you, please write down a description of this item." Guudwyn, with his hand palm up, presents the parchment and pen. Then he continues, "Please include any special properties or magics regarding the item. Also include the names of anybody who knew you had this item on your person that may have shown interest. By providing this information, you will be aiding us in determining where we start and how we execute our investigation." Then he quickly adds, "And by writing it down, we will have an account of all of the details so that nothing is missed." Guudwyn ends this all with a smile, his arms, shoulder to elbow at his sides, elbows bent and arms raised parallel to the floor with palms up.

diplomacy check, if necessary, (roll 20+8=28)

The boy says, "I was told this is to be delivered to master Guudwyn." He hands the note to Guudwyn and continues, "May I be of any further service sirs? Are the rooms to your liking? As my lady always says, 'We appreciate your patronage.'"

Guudwyn takes the rolled parchment from the boy, opens and reads. He then looks at the boy and says, "The established accomodations are delightful. Please thank your Lady for me. Our needs are well cared for." Guudwyn does look at his companions just incase they have anything to add. Then says, "Thank you my lad, that will be all."

Closing the door upon the boy's exit, Guudwyn turns around to face his companions, "It is almost time. Any questions?"

"On another thought," Guudwyn responds a moment later. He pulls out his used parchment again, looking for enough space to write. He then picks up the ink pen and scrawls...

Do we all share a language other than common? I also speak celestial & halfling.

Guudwyn then gives his companions a turn.

Gimble wrote:

"Perhaps one of us could pretend to be mute and deaf, allowing us to ask him to write things down without seeming overly odd."

Boeler turns to Gimble and says brightly "I could do that! I don't like speaking much anyway."

Looking at his little companions and speaking quietly, "We could do this, but I am loath to giving fabricated information. I believe as long as we keep important information away from prying eyes and ears, we can still have a normal and casual conversation with Mr. Sureblood. By doing this, it will help alleviate suspicion from our potentially listening hosts and our perspective client. As long as we can get him to write down the details of the object in question, information to secondary parties can hopefully be kept to a minimum."

"It would be best to find out what it is we are seeking before negotiating a price for its retrieval. Regardless of what the item is, however, 20 gold would seem too little for such a dangerous task, we would be dealing with thieves...or worse. Plus, I believe it is proper in negotiations to start high. But, saying this, I trust in your fine diplomatic skills, Guudwyn, and feel comfortable having you speak for us as a group."

"You are right in regard to negotiations. I let the question rest on the air to gather a feel of your reactions to monetary gain. I have an idea in mind and will adjust it accordingly during our meeting with the merchant. Hopefully my decision will be satisfactory."

After Xanros provides additional information about the room's flaws, Guudwyn takes out and unfolds the used piece of parchment and writes.

Unless better ideas, when merchant arrives, discuss normally any questions, but vaguely, Rasmus, maybe stay in the corner or another room to avoid questions directed at you. I will try to have the merchant write details down. If they are listening, we should say only what we need to. Any thoughts?

Then Guudwyn shifts the parchment for any of his companions to write any thoughts or ideas. He also brings out a fresh piece of parchment for when the merchant arrives.

Guudwyn, thinking about Rasmus's spellcasting, walks over to his companion shortly after the boy leaves. "My friend, I know your devotion is strong, but I did not realize that you share similar blessings. I still have much to learn about you. Hopefully, our adventures will keep us strong and together for a long while so we can discuss and discover who you really are."

nice job with the fruit. Loved it!

Once the boy leaves, and the companions are relatively alone.

"So my friends. What kind of fee do we expect to ask from this wealthy merchant? Does anybody have expertise in these matters or know a going rate? I figure there should be some type of retainment fee and then a larger completion fee. Any suggestions? I realize that an amount we come up with now may change depending on our meeting with the merchant, but I do believe that it would be prudent to have a base amount to negotiate with that will satisfy our requirements."

For when the boy knocks and reenters the room

*Knock*

"Please Enter." Seeing the boy enter, Guudwyn says, "Hello again, my young friend. What a wonderful room and spread of food you all have laid out for us. Tell me, out of these different juices, which is your favorite?" After the boy answers, "Guudwyn states, please take a break and have a glass." Guudwyn watches the boy's reaction. If the boy is reluctant, he tries to determine if it is just because the boy is working, or if the food and drink was really poisoned, would the boy know such a thing. sense motive (roll 2+6=8)

Guudwyn insists for another minute either until the boy takes a drink or Guudwyn says, "Ah, my boy, your manners are too well kept. I am beginning to think the juices are no good." Guudwyn says this with a smile and a slight laugh.

"Alright then," Guudwyn continues, "Now for the reason that you are here. Please deliver this letter to Mr. Tunly Sureblood who is resting in your dining area." Guudwyn hands the boy a rolled up piece of parchment sealed with wax. "And this is for you." Guudwyn flips the boy a gold piece. "Now save that for your future." Guudwyn finishes with a wink.

The letter to Mr. Tunly Sureblood:

diplomacy check (roll 12+8=20)

Will Save to see through the illusion (roll 2+5=7)

Part way through his letter, Guudwyn sits up and walks over to the display of food. He puts the food as close together as possible, reaches into the folds of his clothing to touch his holy symbol, and prays quietly to Heironeous. "Oh, Great Invincible One, Bless this food and drink so it is safe for your loyal followers, so we may serve your future needs." Then he rearranges the food and drink as best he can to their original locations.

Guudwyn arranges the food in way so he can hopefully capture it all, then he casts 'Purify Food and Drink'

After the young woman describes the accomodations, Guudwyn smiles and says, "The accomodations sound delightful. As for dinner, my companions and I will decide after our meeting with Mr. Sureblood." Guudwyn then reaches into his coinpouch and retieves 5 gold pieces to give to her.

The male attendant then takes them upstairs once the room is prepared. This time, remembering Rasmus's keen eye for art, Guudwyn does take notice to the intricate beauty of the woodworked bannisters and walls. Guudwyn is slightly more impressed by the room, or he should think rooms, arranged for them.

To the boy's inquiry of staying, Guudwyn responds, "I would like some time to draft a letter of introduction for the good merchant. Please return in fifteen minutes."

When the boy exits, Guudwyn hastly pulls out 2 pieces of parchment, his vial of ink, pen, wax, and signet ring. On the first piece of parchment to quickly scrawls...

Keep silent. Do not eat the food. Look for spies. Gimble, if you are able to search for magic, please do so.

Guudwyn shows the letter to his companions then folds it and puts it in his cloak pocket. He then prepares the other paper to start drafting his letter. Before he sits, he starts searching the walls, paintings, rooms, and anything else he can think of. Guudwyn thinks, 'Back in Crag, we always had to be wary of spies.'

Search check (roll 4+2=6)

After his search, Guudwyn sits to draft his letter while his companions complete their search or other tasks of their choosing.

"Please understand that I take no offense to your own beliefs, mine simply differ. It is unfortunate that the leaders of this land do not share the willingness to accept the differences inherent in all of us. I will someday see if I can do...

Guudwyn nods in agreement.

I thought your response showed great philosophy. Once again, a post I really enjoyed reading. Especially dependency equaling terminable part. Very thought provoking. Sometimes, I really wish I lived in Michigan to sit at your table.

Guudwyn views the halfling with surprise at his last statement. "Boeler, I am saddened to hear your lack of faith in a higher being. Heironeous, the Invincible One, has great honor and shows great courage to destroy the evil and wicked and aid those in need. I am a minor vessel of his power, but when I feel his presence, I am always comforted by the knowledge that I am doing good in this world. Hopefully we never see battle, but if this occurs, I will show you his blessing." Guudwyn hopes that he has not offended the halfling, and if the time arises that Boeler needs Heironeous's granted powers, the halfling will not shy away.

The young woman leaves to prepare the room. When Guudwyn views Rasmus, he notices he is distant and follows his gaze. 'I guess he has not seen elegance and the furnishings of high-society before,' he thinks to himself. Guudwyn has a hard time comprehending the amazed and appreciative expression on his friend's face. Guudwyn thinks again, 'I guess there is beauty in these furnishings.' Growing up in the minimalist atmosphere of the hidden shrine in Crag, the lectures on survival and secrecy took precedence over finery. 'I could probably learn alot from my new friend. I guess there is a joy to life that can be found even if it does not include the completion of finite goals.'

Then he notices Boeler tugging at Rasmus making inquiries as to why we are here. "My friend," he starts, "We are seeking an audience with the merchant who had an item stolen." Then whispering, "This item may or may not have a significance involving the appearance of Rasmus and/or the strangness of the boy earlier today."

Guudwyn turns and nods at Rasmus in agreement, "You are right my friend. A private audience is important." He turns back to the young woman. "Please reserve the room in question. Thank you again for your gracious hospitality."

see spoiler 1 on above 'Guudwyn post'

Guudwyn studies the young woman, curious as to why she did not keep the coin she picked up. Knowledge (local)? (roll 19+3=22)

"A private room is an excellent idea. This would allow us to have our conversation, and we would not disturb your distinguished clientele. I must admit, though, I am new to Barren Falls and currently with meager currency. May I ask, in advance, the cost?"

if the cost is feasible (5 gp or less), Then . . .

if more than 5gp

either option, another diplomacy check, if necessary, (roll 10+8=18)

As Guudwyn walks up the stairs noticing the finery and elegance of the inn, he secretly wishes that they were all better dressed and not looking like they are ready for travel and/or combat. He finally accepts the circumstances though, thinking what's done is done.

"W-w-w-welcome to the S-s-s-sequester. Are you seeking a p-p-p-pleasant getaway?"

Guudwyn smiles toward the young woman, hiding suspicion of her disability. sense motive (roll 7+6=13)

"Thank you for your hospitality," Guudwyn smiles and nods. "Please excuse our appearance. I realize that this is a fine establishment and we would not want to soil Your beautiful elegance," he eyes the young woman directly trying to discreetly pay her a compliment, "but we were hoping to speak to a guest of yours. I believe he is a merchant dealing in spices and gems, and has recently arrived. I would be most appreciative if you could sit us near his table." Guudwyn then flips the young woman and the two male attendants a silver piece each. Diplomacy check (roll 7+8=15)

Before entering the tavern

"I do agree with Xanros on this. It is best we stay together. First most, we, as of yet, do not entirely know who or what we are dealing with. Secondly, I believe in strength in numbers at this point."

"On another note, the merchant will most likely make a monetary offer. Being of priestly grooming, my experience is minimal in these manners. Does anyone have a suggestion regarding the type of reward that we are expecting?"

"Also, unless there is objection, should I speak for our party?"

Rasmus slows to join the others. "This boy is intriguing. Why would the family follow him, he's just a boy? That item in his hand, could it have been the rod from the merchant? It was silver, I believe. For the short time I have been here, I have seen many strange things already and wonder what lies ahead for us. We should pray that Heironeous watches out for us in this place as it seems more than unfriendly and, frankly, a bit spooky."

"Rasmus" Guudwyn stops suddenly with new incite, "You may have hit on something. Now this is just a theory. What if the boy stole the item? And, it was the item in his hand. If this item is some type of powerful magical relic, it is possible that it has taken control of the boy. This could be why the boy seems so strange." Guudwyn glances at his companions, tightens his lips in befuddlement, and sighs. Then acknowledges, "I am probably getting way ahead of myself. I have a tendancy to over assess a situation. I guess we should just find out what the merchant is missing first before jumping to more conclusions." Guudwyn starts walking again.

"I agree with Rasmus lets get off the street and find that merchant. After we hear what he has to say I would like to go check out Braden's Boudiour to see who owns or runs it since I think that is the safe house front."

Intrigued, Guudwyn asks, "Who would have a safe house here? And Why?"

Guudwyn, now surprised, sees Xanros ahead of him walking toward the inn.

Taking the compliment graciously as Rasmus walks toward the inn, "Well, we all have our areas of proficiency. I am less useful with the arcane and matters of secrecy." He then moves towards Rasmus hoping the others will follow.

"Has anyone else found anything useful while I was gone? I know the merchant was willing to pay to get his stuff back but I couldn't hear where he went to."

Guudwyn sees Rasmus and Boehler approach out from the crowd shortly after he and Gimble walk away from the guard. Moments later Xanros appears. Guudwyn looks at his companions and nods them to a secluded section of the street where they can talk in private.

"My magics found no trace of any type of portal," Guudwyn shakes his head, "but when I incidentally laid my eyes on the boy from earlier, he had magic about him. I was going to investigate further, but I was accosted by the guard." He nods toward the area where he was accosted. Then he goes on to say, "At least now the guards will be under the impression that any searching we will be doing around here will be for the benefit of the merchant and not Rasmus's sudden appearence." Then Guudwyn looks at Rasmus.

"Although, you may be right. It does seem odd that at the same time you appeared, this potentially valuable artifact went missing." Then looking at everybody again, "Shall we journey to the Sequester and speak with the merchant?" He lifts up his arm, palm up, directing his companions toward the inn. "If there is a connection between Rasmus and the theft, then this will be a good place to start. And like I said before. We will have an alibi for searching this area whether there is a connection or two separate incidents."

The guard seems to consider your statements for a moment before relaxing his posture somewhat. "Well, if you really didn't know any better and you were only trying to help... Fine, we'll let it go with just a warning this time, but be sure to keep the law from now on. The rest of the Baron's servants may not be so kind as me. Hmph. Now, what, if anything, do you know about the disappearance of this merchant's item?" He looks down at Gimble and says, "I suppose you'll say the same as this one? Well, if that is the case, what were you able to...

Guudwyn looks at the guard, relief hidden on his face. "You are most forgiving and understanding," Guudwyn states giving a slight bow of the head. "Alas, my simple magics were unable to find anything in regard to the merchant's stolen item." Guudwyn looks at the guard with, lips rolled into his mouth, feined dissappointment shaking his head. "Perhaps, my companion and I, could look into the matter for the Baron. What do you say, my friend?" He looks down at Gimble. "Shall we grab a meal and talk to the merchant?" Before Gimble responds, Guudwyn turns his gaze back on the guard, "Do we have your permission to be on our way? We just have a few errands to attend, and then we would be able to serve the Baron with this task." Guudwyn tilts his head slightly and smiles.

Waiting for the guard's response, Guudwyn, quite happy with the outcome, thinks now we will be able to move about town and continue our investigation regarding Rasmus's sudden appearence, and any suspicious guards will learn that we are on a task aiding the Baron and his merchant friend.

"You two there, stop. What are your names and business here in Barren Falls? I saw you using magic of some sort. While magic is allowed in this town, it is expressly forbidden to use it on others without their knowledge or permission. There are stiff penalties for such flagrant disregard for the law. The Baron has made that very clear."

"Greetings, Guardian of Barren Falls." Guudwyn looks surprised as he is accosted. "Please, the short sword will not be necessary", Guudwyn quickly attempts to relieve the tension, with a parially raised hand and a smile, noticing the guards hand waver around the hilt. "My name is Guudwyn Valoenus." He respectfully bows his head. "I have recently arrived here from Crag. I am new here, and if I broke any law, I am terribly sorry. My sole intention is to help." he states with his right arm half-raised and his index finger pointing toward the sky. "I simply noticed that some of your fellow guards were speaking to a merchant that has now moved into that fine establishment," repointing his finger to the Sequester, "for a meal and drink. It seems that the merchant has lost something and would like your comrades to find it. My simple spell," Guudwyn now takes his arm and does a sweep of the area left to right, "is used to find things. As I stated earlier, I am here, in Barren Falls to help." Guudwyn says with a smile, and a slight bow while his arms are out at his sides with his palms facing the guard in mock servility. "I truely hope there is no need to contact the Baron. Especially when a high regarded merchant had something stolen and the guards were unable to catch the thief." Guudwyn smiles, then quickly whispers with a hand, back of it toward the side of his mouth, "I am here only to help."

please take notice that no sentence, in itself is a lie. Guudwyn is not trying to bluff his way out of this. He would not do that. Each sentence is fact, if taken out of context