Master Jendarne, may I recommend a refreshing glass of water...
Pitr nearly loses his cigarillo as he doubles over laughing. You drink the water here?! I misjudged you, Solaric. You're far braver than I thought.
Pitr gazes around as he finishes his smoke and noticing the Sczarni, he self consciously takes off his scorched scarf. Hey Basilli, didn't you say you could patch this up for me?
"Why bless my soul young Pitr! So I did , so I did! Please if you could be so kind as to pass it to me ..."
Taking the proffered scarf, Basilli retreats to a corner of the inn.
He starts a soft chant while passing his hand over the tattered and burnt item "All things are bound by the Light. The Light remembers what we are whole. All things are bound by the Light. The Light remembers what we are whole."
As he continues to chant tiny threads of light come into being joining the tears, and replacing the burned areas then fading into the correct colours.
"All things are bound by the Light. The Light remembers what we are whole. All things are bound by the Light. The Light remembers what we are whole."
Basilli's hand seems to take a small amount of the luminance itself, as the damage starts disappearing. Ten minutes pass until he abruptly finishes his chant.
"Here you go Pitr, this should be as good as new." he adds with a smile as he passes the now perfect scarf back.
Once Kirk Spearborn arrives, the dark elf inwardly sighs in relief. At last, we can get out of here. Spearborn! I am glad you could make it. I trust you have completed your business. We are now ready to make haste to the Weatherby residence! Solaric does his best to escort the half orc back out of the Shark Pool before he starts to get too comfortable. In a rallying call, the paladin of Iomeade addresses the party.
My fellow friends, you are the Academy’s finest and today you shall all distinguish yourself through your actions. Gather up your belonging and your courage and follow me. Today we will bring justice to this fine city and the wretched Ragman will never forget the group herby known as Karcau’s Chosen! Onward! . . . For justice against the senseless killings of children! For victory . . . against all that stands in the way of peace within our kingdom. To the smite the heart of his evil wretchedness! Onward in the name of justice, For Victory! For the Heart!
Solaric leads the group out of the Shark Pool and down the streets toward the Weatherby residence.
Pitr shakes out the scarf and looks very impressed. Thanks, Basilli. I didn't realize you were a tailor as well. Fast, too. If you're looking for a side job, I think word of mouth alone would get half of Karcau lined up at your door.
With a sidelong glance at the Sczarni, Pitr decides to wati until he is outside before jauntily wrapping his lucky scarf around his neck.
Having left Basili proceed to the tavern, and Pitr to his own private affairs, Zahur arrives a bit late after bringing Night to the academy stables.
Going to the barkeep, the Garundi buys a weak ale and sits down at his companions table.
Well it seems that their is quite a gathering here. Not that I don't believe in the strenght of numbers, it just seems that with the recent revelations of the academy politics, the mercilessness of our foe, and the obvious anger in the patrons of the inn, I don't think that insighting a mob mentality is the proper path to take.
I really don't want to have the blood of innocents on our hands. I really think that it would be best to send them to the sewer entrance that we won't be using and have them act as sentries that can stop anything that tries to run away.
Seeing everyone getting out after Solarics zealous speech, Zahur shrugs his shoulders, checks his weapons, takes a final swig and steps out.
Well at least I tried.
Going to the barkeep, the Garundi buys a weak ale and sits down at his companions table.
Zahur? Solaric barely whispers his friend's name as he looks the tall Garundi in the eyes with great disappointment. My brave knight, please don’t tell me that even you have fallen into the the seducing grip of that fire brew. Let us hope that there will be a time for celebration and merriment soon, but not now when we prepare ourselves for battle! If you have fear, you must trust in the Inheritor, not in the bottle as so many others do. With that poison in your system, you cannot hope to open yourself up to her divine guidance. Please, my friend, I urge you to put that drink aside and join me. We will fight together, side by side, as brothers in arms!
Solaric offers his arm and open hand to the Garundi.
Diplomacy
Right after Solaric's encouraging speech, Gorian approaches the party's table. He seems tired, old and strengthless.
Among the dead children was my godson...Gavran. I once swore always to care for him. In the end I was to drunk to even realize that he disappeared. Solaric, I don't know if such an also-ran as I would be a good asset to your cause. Maybe it's better to stay here and try to help the Sczarni people getting along with the guards.
Right after Solaric's encouraging speech, Gorian approaches the party's table. He seems tired, old and strengthless.
Among the dead children was my godson...Gavran. I once swore always to care for him. In the end I was to drunk to even realize that he disappeared. Solaric, I don't know if such an also-ran as I would be a good asset to your cause. Maybe it's better to stay here and try to help the Sczarni people getting along with the guards.
Right after Solaric's encouraging speech, Gorian approaches the party's table. He seems tired, old and strengthless.
Among the dead children was my godson...Gavran. I once swore always to care for him. In the end I was to drunk to even realize that he disappeared. Solaric, I don't know if such an also-ran as I would be a good asset to your cause. Maybe it's better to stay here and try to help the Sczarni people getting along with the guards.
Gorian, my friend, I am most sorry! You have been true to our cause and without you we would not have made it even this far. Do not be so harsh on yourself. We all make mistakes. I know that you do not care to hear this from a zealot such as me. But I am speaking the truth when I tell you that the Dawnflower forgives you! Let go of your self doubt and join us. You can make a difference for the lives of many other children! This is your opportunity for redemption. Take my hand brother and join us! Solaric extends his arm.
Diplomacy
"I would caution that whilst we already have one horrid tragedy, not getting this mob dispersed may lead to even more - you knjow the foes we face, and you know that these people would not be ready for them. They hasten to add to the count, not understanding that it would be THEM added to the tally, Gorian I would ask that you act on your instincts and help quell the anger, for now, and get these people home. You are known in these parts, and your voice carries weight... see the tragedy is no worse than it has to be."
|
"Aye best that the crowd not attempt to enter the sewers. The way in there will be dark, treacherous and confusing. If it is only us in there then every one else is foe."
Gesturing at his staff Basilli intones " Light guide me, Light inspire me " and the end starts glowing in a golden radiance.
Basilli raises his arms for attention and yells out,"Good people! Attend to my words! What we are seeing here is nothing less than the deprivations of an evil cult, whose purpose is unknown as at this time. I hear your anger, I can taste the need for vengeance - for blood calling out to blood. But I urge care and caution at this time."
Pointing in the direction of the sewer entrance with his staff he continues, "The vile fiends that committed this crime have taken root in the sewers below, festering like a rotting sore beneath our very feet. I propose that we divide the task of lancing this canker thusly. My companions and I will head into the foul depths to face and flush out our foe. You my good people, docksmen, Sczarni and guards alike, take positions around the sewer entrances and act as the anvils to our hammer - catching any of these fleeing sewer rats before they can escape to infest another part of our city. It is of utmost importance that you do not slay them out of hand though. The Authorities must determine the cause and extent of this threat. Once they have the information that they need I am sure that they will sentence the swine to suitable and gratifying punishment, indeed maybe even into your very hands for retribution! Let us then prepare for the cleansing!"
Diplomacy
Kirk finds his way back to the Shark Pool to discover a troubled but eager Solaric. "Tell me, what did I miss?" he asks the paladin. Kirk listens to the news of the new discoveries quietly, and mutters only "I see," at the end of the quick briefing. When Solaric has finished, and their attentions called to the growing anticipation before the adventure into the sewer, Kirk slides into a chair at one of the tables.
Before, the prospects of his future laboratory was on the forefront of his mind, but now everything but one consuming thought was irrelevant. Children? he questioned. If the Skinsaw Cult truly did this, Kirk mused, then they deserve no quarter from me and no amount of needless curiosity will save them. The powerful Norgorber surely receives no pleasure from the acts of these monsters, and their mere presence is a taint on his misunderstood name. Kirk sits for only a minute or two, puzzling his new resolution, then rises to attend to the task at hand.
At the first chance to speak with the group as a whole, he says "To think that the people we're chasing could have been stopped before these crimes were committed troubles me, so I can't dwell on it. Instead, I'd just like to tell you all that when we get in there, you can count on me to do my part as best I can."
Right after Solaric's encouraging speech, Gorian approaches the party's table. He seems tired, old and strengthless.
Pitr is troubled to see Gorian so shaken and wonders how he would have felt had his own younger siblings been slaughtered by the cultists. Nevertheless, justice is no task for this mob. They have suffered enough and aren't prepared for what needs to be done. For the first time in his life Pitr realizes that he has a duty to stand between the weak and those that would feed upon them. He has been trained for this and he will make sure the cultists are destroyed. He pats Gorian on the shoulder as he departs.
If the likely event that Solaric's attempt to persuade Gorian failed, he will approach the young Taldan and speak to him. Jendarne, I need your help. Gorian Damasco is grieving badly and is in greater need of our help than he realizes. You have gotten to know him on the island. Could you try to persuade him to come and join us in the sewers? I think he will listen to you. Do you see what a mess that wretched drink has made of him?
"To think that the people we're chasing could have been stopped before these crimes were committed troubles me, so I can't dwell on it. Instead, I'd just like to tell you all that when we get in there, you can count on me to do my part as best I can."
Kirk Spearborn, your words encourage me! The dark elf pats the half orc on the shoulder.
As the lame master gives his concerned speech to the entire tavern, Solaric thinks to himself. Basilli is right. We must protect the innocent and help ensure that justice is not taken over by mob rule. We need need these good people to work with each other and with us for the good of Karcau.
Solaric goes over to Basilli and stands at his side while he is speaking to the tavern. When the venerable man is finished, the paladin also speaks to the assembled crowd in an effort to help support the lame master’s inspiring words.
My fellow citizens. Basilli the Lame has spoken! You have heard his words. Now let's turn them into action. I see that you have great strength within you and your dedication and commitment to each other is clearly shown. Use that enthusiasm now to put aside your differences with the guards and join us now to put yourselves in positions around the entrances to the sewers. With your help we will catch them right here in the docks. By working together, united for the people of Karcau, we will see that these villains are brought to justice! Now join Basilli the Lame and Karcau's Chosen as we proceed onward. For Victory! For the Heart!
Diplomacy Check to Assist Basilli
Nods, raised arms, fists slammed on tables and encouraging yells roll through the crowd while Basilli and Solaric speak. In the end it seems that the two have encouraged everyone and furthermore all of the people have understood that their help is needed guarding the sewer entrances.
Salvator joins you and puts a bag with several pale blue potions on the table.
Here my friends, these are made by Madame Olijanka Vadorin, our most experienced person in all arcane issues. She told me the potions would mend wounds instantly. I hope they help you on your dangerous mission.
Just as Salvator has finished, Gorian leans in closer and says
By the purifying fire of Sarenrae, you persuaded me to accompany you. The chance that I will be at the right sewer entrance should they try to flee, is so small that I think it's best for me to accompany you. Do I have to know anything before we get that filthy scum?
"It seems that our lawful sponsors have not forgotten about us, that is encouraging," Kirk says, nodding in appreciation at the potions. When Gorian announces his plan to accompany the group, Kirk claps him on the shoulder encouragingly, "We'll make them pay for what they've done. You're doing the right thing, and I respect your newfound resolution to accomplish the task at hand. Glad to have you with us."
Here my friends, these are made by Madame Olijanka Vadorin, our most experienced person in all arcane issues. She told me the potions would mend wounds instantly. I hope they help you on your dangerous mission.
Master Salvator, your generosity has impressed me at every turn. I thank you for these gifts and humbly accept. I assure you that they will serve us in our greatest need. I only hope that we will be able to return soon and share with you news of our victory.
By the purifying fire of Sarenrae, you persuaded me to accompany you. . .
The Paladin of Iomedae, pleased with the giant's decision, clasps Gorian's hand in his and expresses his relief.
Gorian, I speak for all of the party when I tell you that you honor us with your decision to join us. Together, on behalf of your godson, Gavran, we will strike down this evil, bring justice to the city, and by the grace of Sarenrae you will find redemption. You have been through much already, but if you ever wish to talk, I am here to listen. As for now, we will begin by going to the residence of old man Weatherby, the former sewer caretaker. From there we will make our descent in the depths of the sewer. As for the rest, we will learn as we go. Gather up your equipment and what supplies you need. We leave immediately.
"So mote it be, then let us depart..."
Pitr waits outside applying his whetstone to his halberd blade. As the rest leave the Shark Pool, he is a bit surprised to see Gorian has joined the party. Pitr thinks the old warrior has suffered enough lately and is probably better off protecting his community.
Pitr accepts the potions without comment, but watches Solaric darkly. Solaric reminds Pitr of his own father. Another zealot that speaks of the glory and will of the gods, but seems to be more interested in bending people to his own will and ego. Pitr spits and thinks that the half-breed doesn't need to drink, as he's already drunk on his own preaching. Pitr amuses himself by wondering if there isn't really that much difference between a cultist and a priest. In the end, they both want your soul for their own gain. Gorian was better off as a drunk.
Zahur falls into step with Basili.
Basili, I really don't like this. There seems to be too much going on at once here. I believe in justice, but is justice brought on by blind passion really justice; or are we just like them?
....Murdering for a cause we believe in.
Don't get me wrong, I believe that they will deserve what ever they get for murdering children, but at the same time I fear the implications that it may have on the academy if we delve into this too far; in the end we might just be puppets on a string. You saw what happened with St-Just, using his position to try and influence me and Pitr.
When I came to the academy, I thought that it would be us off fighting vile creatures, rescuing damsels in distress, and enjoying a good drink at an inn near a warm fireplace...but instead on our first day of graduation there are grizly murders, lies and deceptions....
The tall warrior lets out a sigh.
I'm starting to think that my father left out many detais of his adventuring days....let me stop ranting and focus my mind on the task at hand.
As you leave the inn, the crowd follows you. During your walk to the old Weatherby residence, most of the people leave you and take positions to overwatch the various sewer entrances.
As you reach the dilapidated former home of Alon, your are alone. The building lies still behind its walls which are in a miserable condition. A cold wind comes up from the lake that let's you shiver...Gorian looks to the sky and sighs
So be it. I don't care if I will return alive from this mission, all I want is revenge. He takes a mighty swing with his warhammer, blasts the corroded gates open and strides onto the main sewer entrance that reminds you of a bulette, only putting its head out of the ground to prey on the inattentive.
Victoria adjusts the grip on her crossbow reflexively, and follws throught the gate.
Gorian looks to the sky and sighs
So be it. I don't care if I will return alive from this mission, all I want is revenge.
Pitr looks ominously at Solaric. I hope you are happy, Soliliquy. If he does anything stupid, it's on your head.
Pitr makes to follows the old warrior into the sewers, but stops as he passes the Countess, Pitr grins despite himself. I don't think the sewers will be kind on that dress. he jests and then adds more earnestly, Countess, when we have more time, I'd like to speak with you.
Looking at Zahur Basilli nods. "Yes my friend, I fear that entirely too much is happening - that things are hinting at events concealed by events."
He sighs "I did what I could to keep the residents and guards out of the line of fire. Believe me when I tell you that it pains me to have to use their baser emotions in order to keep them safe. But at least they are no longer an immediate concern. No we must keep a sharp eye for these fiends now and focus at the task at hand. Unfortunately you will be bearing the brunt of the assault upon the cultists for we cannot rely on Gorian from doing anything foolish. Grief can drive a man to madness. I will be of course there to lend all assistance that I am able to."
Upon hearing Gorian's proclamation Basilli turns to confront him.
"And what would that achieve Gorian? Shall your death bring the boy back? Will your throwing of yourself upon the foe bring Justice to the victims? Or is this just another way of escaping your responsibilities to the world? Sinking to the bottom of a bottle did not do the job - it did not prevent you from returning to do your duty - now you wish to choose death? Are you so much the coward? Here Master Gorian allow me to pass you my dagger so you can slit your throat - and while you are at it slit mine and all our companions as well. For if you are entering this maze with nothing more than thoughts of revenge and suicide then you may as well kill us all now! We need you FOCUSED. Your GODSON would demand nothing less from you! Shall you now condemn his memory, and his only chance for justice? You want revenge - then how about the revenge of not just defeating these cultists, but of learning and thwarting their greater plans as well? For mark my words we are only scratching the surface of what is transpiring - I do not know HOW I know but by all the Gods who have cursed me thus, I KNOW!"
Bluff:
Diplomacy:
Gorian stops mid-stride and turns around, his face rock solid
I tell you what Basilli: The flame of Sarenrae that flows through my veins is like any other fire - consuming. The Dawnflower demands your soul, sooner or later...But your words hold truth, I will cool down my fire, a ghastly flame whose touch does not harm less, but will keep me focussed.
After taking out his longsword and shield, Zahur turns on a sunrod and attaches it to the front of his shield and marches forward into the darkness.
Stepping from a metaphorically feces infested situation, into a literal one. Adventuring really is everything that it's cracked up to be
Oh, the places you'll go, Zahur. Pitr grins. and the less said about cracks at the moment, the better.
Countess, when we have more time, I'd like to speak with you.
"Indeed, in a nicer place with a better ambiance..."
Kirk double-checks his equipment before entering the sewer, then says "And into the darkness we go... perhaps I should scout ahead some paces, so as to hopefully avoid any mean surprises?"
Stealth
Perception
Kirk will try to stay about 60 feet ahead of the group, unless anyone has any objections.
As the group proceeds to the Sewers, the half dark elf paladin approaches the lame Master and walks a while at his side.
Basilli, I want to compliment you on your speech back there at the Shark Pool. You seem very comfortable speaking to large crowds. The people responded well to your words. As a result, I think you saved many innocent lives today.
However, you seem very angry about Gorian’s decision to help us. I cannot help but suspect that you are considering me at fault. Do you really think I made a mistake in trying to persuade him? He is an able warrior and will bring much to our task ahead. Besides, the poor man is living in such grief. I can only imagine what he is going through. The guilt must be overwhelming. At least he has stopped drinking and started listening to the guiding light of the Dawnflower. Although, I’m sure that she would not support his desire for revenge. Perhaps he will need to look within and listen to his heart for more guidance. Well, with time, patience and some help from his friends, I'm sure that he will find his ways through the trials that lay ahead of him.
Basilli, you can be such a difficult man to read sometimes. I was sure that you would be proud of me for helping redeem a man who has fallen into the depths of despair by giving him a means to be of service to others.
Pitr looks ominously at Solaric. I hope you are happy, Soliliquy. If he does anything stupid, it's on your head.
Pitr Jendarne, I have had quite enough of your attitude! There is no need for name calling. I have treated you with the utmost respect ever since the day we met and you have returned it with insulting, rude behavior as if you were a bully in a child’s garden. What in the world have I done to offend you? If my actions, thoughts and passion for life offend you so much, perhaps it is time for you to look within and decided who you are and what you believe. Often when people harbor feelings of ill will to another, they are actually meeting themselves. Perhaps there is some quality within yourself that you are recognizing in me, for why else would you hold such contempt? Let us have no more of this behavior, for we must now put aside our differences and learn to trust one another for our lives may very well depend on it. When time permits, perhaps we can share stories with one another over a friendly game of chess, and learn that our similarities are actual much greater than our differences. However, in the meantime, until that day occurs, let us stand together, united in our common goal! Take my hand and swear to me that you will try! The dark elf paladin looks Pitr Jendarne in the eye and offers him a hand of friendship and awaits his reply. . .
Pitr puts his free hand on his hips and leans into Solaric's face.
If the name fits... He gives a cold smile. Listen, I'm not sure if you are planning on talking these cultists to death, but I don't think that's gonna be as effective as a blade in the guts. My recommendation is that you shut your mouth, draw your blade, and try to make yourself useful. Now if you're done exercising your jaws, let's get this done.
"Solaric! Pitr! - ENOUGH!" Basilli hisses.
"Now is not the time to have a clash of wills! I need total focus from both - nay all of us - if we are to succeed here today!
Solaric, I was not and am not, disappointed that Gorian joined us whether by your urgings or by his own sense of duty. What I am - was - concerned about was if his grief was going to be a liability to him and to our over all success. That a man may choose to sacrifice himself to further some greater cause is nothing to deride or belittle - but to throw ones life away only due to grief and self loathing is an anathema to all I believe and stand for! "
He turns once again to Gorian.
"Gorian hear my words now - and LIVE by them! Death is a feather, but Duty is a mountain Is this not the creedo of your way?"
Turning now to Pitr.
"Pitr - your ways and means are of a different caliber than Solaric's - you choose to see the world in a, let us say, less idealistic way. But as I once told Solaric - do not judge someone by your standards alone. I understand and embrace your differences and the skills you all bring to our group. I do not care that you may not get along or if one or another rubs someone the wrong way. I care that we are all prepared to work with one another, that we support each other and cover each others weaknesses with our individual strengths. THIS. IS. LIFE. Deal with it!"
Basilli now straightens himself up and adjusts his cloak about his shoulders. In a much less heated tone he adds "Well then, now that this has been cleared up and we are all in agreement, can we continue with defeating the real foe?"
Victoria is clearly a bit stuck on what to make of all this.
She points to the 'path ahead' - "The real enemy is in there my friends, not out here"
Gorian nods to Victoria ans adds curtly
As long as we all do our best, I hope the better part of us escapes victorious.
Gorian opens the heavy steel door with a creaking sound. From inside you hear the steady flowing of the stream of excrements. It's quiute cold inside and the stench is far less annoying than you imagined before.
After some stairs follows a narrow tunnel which leads into some kind of antechamber. From here three three more passages branch off: north, east and south. The walls are made of red brick-stone and glisten with humidity.
The northern one is illuminated in a pale green light by large stains of luminescing mould.
The dark elf pauses a moment, concentrates, and with a wave of his hands utters, Tespit Kotu!
Perception
Victoria falls into step behind her gallant front line fighters, keeping herself out of harms way.
AYou do not sense any evil auras. Besides the steady noise of the sewer stream you can't hear anything else.
Gorian peeks into the tunnel covered with mould and says
These rats do need light too, mhh? I'd suspect they would use the natural light, so they don't have to carry torches with them or make use of spells, what do you think?
Solaric replies in a hushed tone. I think you are right, Gorian. Let us proceed carefully to the north. My friends, let us not use any light sources other than the natural luminescence of the mold. From here onward, let us not speak any louder than a whisper. Kirk, would you be kind enough to scout ahead in stealth and warn us of any traps? Wait for us at each intersection. We will quietly follow at a distance.
Solaric quietly leads Karcau's Chosen onward to the north behind Kirk at a distance of about 100 feet. Despite wearing armor, the dark elf is making every effort to make as little noise as possible.
Stealth Check (If needed)
Kirk nods his head, and continues deeper, trusting his halforc eyes where the mold does not illuminate his path.
Stealth
Perception
Going with his companion's idea of walking by the mold's light, Zahur takes his sunrod off of his shield and puts it in a satchel.
The gloomy green light reflects on your armor and weapons as you slowly creep forward. Still the only things to be heard are your supressed breathing, the clattering of armor and the steady sound of the sewer stream.
After about 100m Kirk stops and waves you to him. The tunnel led you to a gigantic chamber (40mX25m), this must be the heart of Karcau's sewers. About a dozen other tunnels also lead in here and in the middle of the room is a large basin where the water flows together.
The room is lit by several everburning torches at its sides.
Form two sides, rusty metal boards lead to the middle of the basin onto a small stony round(5 feet diameter). On this tiny "island" a metal hatch is embedded.
Upon seeing the hatch in the center of the chamber, Solaric waves his hand to Kirk to proceed down the hatch. If the half orc needs help opening it, the dark elf moves forward and helps him.
Strength Check (if needed)
Pitr has remained sullenly quiet for the walk although he does offer assistance should the Countess need help over a nasty spot. Once he reaches the big room he takes more interest by keeps his eyes peeled for threats in the water.
perception
He also tries to remember what he knows about drainage systems and inspects the rusty metal planks.
Knowledge (engineering)
The boards don't look very solid. You would suggest that a light person should test their safety first.
The hatch could lead into something like a control room, a place where valves regulate the in- and outflow.
Pitr considers letting the paladin test out the rusty bridge to the central valve, but knows this isn't the place for a prank.
Hold up, Solaric. That bridge doesn't look very sturdy to me. I recommend we be a bit more careful about crossing. Maybe send someone light across first and see if we can tie a guide rope onto something.
Kirk looks around their group. "Someone light?" he asks, looking around the heavily-armored group. "I suppose that'd be either Basilli or Countess. Any volunteers?"
The gap is about 4.5m wide.
Unpacking a rope from one of her comrades, she sets down her crossbow and begins to place the rope around her waist...
"I appreciate you all being gentlemanly enough not to ask, and in return I shall be dutiful enough to offer."
She hands the end of the rope to Pitr and Solaric.
Before setting foot on the bridge, she examines it to see if there are any obvious rust spots or the like.