"Her name is Kara. Look, I appreciate that you've got a job to do, sir, but this is kind of a time sensitive matter. We won't be intrusive."
9th Day of Autumn Twilight - 1030 PC - Tarsis the Beautiful - The Cathedral of Branchala
Caleb responds, "For your own safety. Oh I am sure you can all handle yourselves in a fight but justice for non-citizens, especially ones such as yourselves can be swift and unfair.
If I am with you, it's unlikely any fool will start trouble they can't quite handle, if you take my meaning".
Gaurm nods with an unhappy expression, "I kinda thought it would be that. You are so far the most polite escort I have had."
9th Day of Autumn Twilight - 1030 PC - Tarsis the Beautiful - The Cathedral of Branchala
"My mother taught me to be polite until it was time not to be. Plus, if the Captain sent a hot-head here you'd just bash his brains in and then we would all have to attack you at once. An ugly scene and not one where either side really wins. I suspect you all know how to handle yourselves.
So besides making the guards around this highly sensitive event incredibly nervous, why are you folks here. By here I mean by the Cathedral".
9th Day of Autumn Twilight - 1030 PC - Tarsis the Beautiful - The Cathedral of Branchala
"My mother taught me to be polite until it was time not to be. Plus, if the Captain sent a hot-head here you'd just bash his brains in and then we would all have to attack you at once. An ugly scene and not one where either side really wins. I suspect you all know how to handle yourselves.
So besides making the guards around this highly sensitive event incredibly nervous, why are you folks here. By here I mean by the Cathedral".
"We came with a few new friends who have business here. Some are over on the steps talking to those other guards, and one is over there talking to the kender, of all unlikely things." Gaurm nods in the appropriate directions, then turns his gaze back to Caleb, "You may, if you wish, inform these other worthy guardians of peace that we are no threat to them. In truth, were trouble to arise, they should feel free to call upon us to stand with them against it."
"I do apologise for my lack of manners, Revered Son," Eldren admits with a slight bow of his head to the kender. "And indeed thank you. for both finding my dropped item and pointing me in the right direction." The pale mage smiles with another slight bow. "I must take my leave now. But this was... interesting. I do wish you well and may the path you travel always be a new one."
And with those words he starts making his way towards the crowd and the direction Rin's topknot seems to be moving towards.
Brogg scratches his chin and eventually says, "Your mum sounds like a good woman. I agree with the sen... uh... sentiment."
"I do apologise for my lack of manners, Revered Son," Eldren admits with a slight bow of his head to the kender. "And indeed thank you. for both finding my dropped item and pointing me in the right direction." The pale mage smiles with another slight bow. "I must take my leave now. But this was... interesting. I do wish you well and may the path you travel always be a new one."
And with those words he starts making his way towards the crowd and the direction Rin's topknot seems to be moving towards.
Theo puts on a serious face.
Young man, perhaps not allowing an Arcane Representative from The Mount to rejoin the rest of the World's Most Respected Scholars and Leaders; why that, would be career suicide!
9th Day of Autumn Twilight - 1030 PC - Tarsis the Beautiful -
---
The guard looks a bit worried at Theo's suggestion, "My apologies Sir, I did not know the Gnomes were sending any delegates, right this way. I will lead you in myself".
The man begins escorting both of you into the Cathedral proper...
---
Eldren races back down the stairs swiping yet another one of his items from the Kender Clerics hands and dives into the crowded street trying to catch up with Rin!
---
As Gaurm and Brogg engage with Caleb, Zsar and Red notice that Eddie and Theo are about to enter the Cathedral while Eldren has for some reason raced into the street crowded with people. On top of all of that Huru is nowhere to be seen!
Caleb nods, "Good to know you would stand with us. Interesting tactic for a mercenary to take as I thought those weapons stayed sheathed except under threat of injury or for gold. Are you all looking for more permanent work?"
Theo smiles up at Eddie; before putting on a serious face.
9th Day of Autumn Twilight - 1030 PC - Tarsis the Beautiful -
As Gaurm and Brogg engage with Caleb, Zsar and Red notice that Eddie and Theo are about to enter the Cathedral while Eldren has for some reason raced into the street crowded with people. On top of all of that Huru is nowhere to be seen!
Caleb nods, "Good to know you would stand with us. Interesting tactic for a mercenary to take as I thought those weapons stayed sheathed except under threat of injury or for gold. Are you all looking for more permanent work?"
Gaurm smiles a broad smile in response, and his voice has an undercurrent of mirth to it, "Being a mercenary just pays the bills, mate. I was trained in my craft by a Knight of Kiri-Jolith, the late Sir Jayre, whose faith I have taken as my own," Gaurm says, lifting the holy symbol from where it rests on his chest for a moment. "I will not serve any cause simply for coin. I strive in all things to leave the road behind me more stable, more safe, and better then it was in front of me."
Red nudges Zsar with his massive hand and points to Eldren running down the steps into the crowd.
"What do you think that's all about? Think he needs help?"
Theo smiles up at Eddie; before putting on a serious face.
"I suppose you're good for something after all" replies Eddie softly so that the guard won't hear.
Once they're within the Cathedral he begins scanning the room for Kara, or anyone else he recognizes.
Theo just smiles wider...until remembering that he is supposed to be serious.
9th Day of Autumn Twilight - 1030 PC - Tarsis the Beautiful -
As you enter the Cathedral, the place is as large on the inside as it looks to be from the outside. The pews are all padded with colorful patterns that include shapes with musical motifs. The Clergy are all assembled at the front of the Cathedral which is a stage. On the stage are several seats taken by the Clergy wearing the colors of Branchala.
Eddie spots Kara mid-way up the pews towards the front no doubt due to her position as an Acolyte. Seated next to her is Remy. Both face forward.
The man turns to both of you, "Do you see the person you seek?"
Father Dent is currently standing and speaking, "Welcome Revered Brothers and Sisters, we have all assembled here...."
9th Day of Autumn Twilight - 1030 PC - Tarsis the Beautiful -
You are able to get right next to her, she turns and stares right at you grinning, "Eldren! Hiya! How are you, I've really been enjoying this city how about you? Although uh, I don't really remember, why the heck did we come here..."
9th Day of Autumn Twilight - 1030 PC - Tarsis the Beautiful -
Red sees Eldren rush into the crowd and stop, as the people move along he can see that the Wizard is speaking to, of all beings, a female kender!
Caleb grins, "You are by far one the most interesting people, if I can call you people, that I have ever met. One does not realize their own prejudices until they come face to face with them I suppose.
If you stick around and your words match your deeds perhaps you'll change some minds of people who would judge you on your appearance alone. And maybe from that..."
His voice trails off as from the crowds a man approaches your small group, it is Haskin Deacon. Deacon scowls at Caleb and addresses all of you, "Ah er.. fellows. I was under the impression we would be out of the city by now ranging for bandits".
Caleb's eyes narrow, "You looking to start trouble Haskin?"
Eddie leans way from the guard to speak to his gnome companion in a low whisper.
"Theo, listen, you got to get over there and try to talk to Kara. I'll keep the guard occupied in the meantime, so it's up to you to deliver the message. We got to let these folk know about the war, but it's got to be subtle. Right? If we make a scene we're gonna get kicked out of here and that'll have us in all sorts of trouble."
Theo looks up at Eddie; his gnome face furrowed in concentration.
Kara.Sheistheoneoverthere?Tellherthatwariscomingbutdon'tpanic.
He pauses for a moment.
Seems that she should probably panic at this news.
Theo smiles.
I do know a cantrip that would allow me to whisper Messages between the three of us, if you wanted? May be easier to communicate without any notice.
9th Day of Autumn Twilight - 1030 PC - Tarsis the Beautiful -
The guard raises an eyebrow as the two of you whisper but he says nothing further as the speech by Father Dent begins to attract his attention.
Theo awaits Eddie's response, as the gnome is a bit new here...
Eddie stops and thinks for a moment.
"You know, I honestly didn't think we'd get this far so I'm not sure exactly how we should tell her. Frankly, this whole spycraft thing is not something I have a lot of experience with. If you say you got some magic that'll make this whole thing a lot quicker then by all means."
Theodore steps behind a column, allowing Eddie to crowd him.
...
The gnome reaches into a hidden pouch. Holding a thin copper wire, the wizard bends it so its ends point at both Eddie and Kara.
Speaking a short simple phrase in draconic, Theo whispers,
Excuse me, miss Kara? I am a friend of Eddies.
9th Day of Autumn Twilight - 1030 PC - Tarsis the Beautiful -
As Eddie distracts the guard, Theo casts his spell.
Eddie can see Kala perk up.
She replies to Theo, "Where are you?..."
Whispering, the gnome answers,
We are almost directly behind you. Eddie needs to speak with you.
Theo thinks for a moment.
Whatever you do don't panic, Eddie says not to worry 'bout the war.
I simply had a hunch, Daughter of Astarin. The information you provided helped me to draw certain conclusions. Perhaps we should be off to the catherdral of Branchala.
9th Day of Autumn Twilight - 1030 PC - Tarsis the Beautiful -
Eddie distracts the guard by pointing to one of the friezes on the wall depicting Branchala as a Bard.
Eddie and Theo see Kara stiffens, "War what.." She stands, leans down to Remy's ear and heads in your direction, leaving Remy to turn his headed and look backwards.
He sees Eddie and scowls...
As she reaches you she speaks to the guard, "Greetings Holy Warrior, I shall take them from here".
"Are they supp..."
"Yes, yes they are", she replies.
He bows and begins to make his exit through the Cathedral.
She smiles but you can see a hint of anger behind it, "Nice to see you once more friends, why are you here? This may be the most important meeting among Clergy the world has ever known and you are causing me to miss it..."
As the usual conversation starts again, Brogg sighs heavily and says, "Only gonna finish trouble started by the bad guys. Bandits, pirates, servants of evil gods... that kinda thing."
9th Day of Autumn Twilight - 1030 PC - Tarsis the Beautiful -
Draven -
Aristal -
Stealth - Assassin 1
Assassin 2
Assassin #2 Surprise Attack Draven - - Damage Poison DC 14
Round 1 Attack vs. Draven - Damage Poison DC 14
Aristal - Rushes back into the room. Spiritual Weapon - Damage
Assassin 1 Crossbow @ Draven - - Damage
Initiative!
Huru -
Draven F 3 - - Fort Save - HP 15/33
Aristal Cl 4 -
Fighter 2 - - HP = 22/22
Cleric 3/Rogue 1 - - HP = 31/31
As you and Draven exit the room with Revered Daughter Aristal a door fro down the hall is flung open causing you all to crouch awaiting some horrific attack. You are not disappointed as the hooded man stepping out aims a crossbow at your group.
From above another falls upon Draven, the man came through the ceiling! The sound of the ceiling breaking is muffled by some sort of magical silence.
As he dives at Draven, the elven warrior is able to twist out of the way and avoid the strike.
Undeterred, the assassin seeks to stab at Draven once more. This time, the assassin stabs into your elven protectors left arm.
Revered Daughter Aristal rushes back into the room, "Huru, to me!" It seems the silence cannot extend all the way into your room.
She casts a spell a magical short sword appears next to the assassin down the hall and strikes but misses the man's wildly. With nerves of steel his fires the bolt and it strikes Draven in the neck causing him to rock backwards if he cries out in pain you are unable to hear it. He begins to draw his blade....
9th Day of Autumn Twilight - 1030 PC - Tarsis the Beautiful -
Eddie distracts the guard by pointing to one of the friezes on the wall depicting Branchala as a Bard.
Eddie and Theo see Kara stiffens, "War what.." She stands, leans down to Remy's ear and heads in your direction, leaving Remy to turn his headed and look backwards.
He sees Eddie and scowls...
As she reaches you she speaks to the guard, "Greetings Holy Warrior, I shall take them from here".
"Are they supp..."
"Yes, yes they are", she replies.
He bows and begins to make his exit through the Cathedral.
She smiles but you can see a hint of anger behind it, "Nice to see you once more friends, why are you here? This may be the most important meeting among Clergy the world has ever known and you are causing me to miss it..."
Eddie tips his hat.
"I won't be long at all, I promise. Just came by to deliver some news. Some of the company I fell in with recently is from far off - and I mean FAR. North a ways, the worldscape forest. They're talking of a war Kara, some Dark Queen (Tahkisis, does that sound right?) has got herself together and is building an army, killing whatever else she runs into along the way. They ended up here after a some business with a druid, but that was only a day ago. There's some talk that it may somehow be connected to the assassins and other malcontents plaguing these parts, but I don't know much about all that. I'm just a washed up gambler delivering a message to someone who may be actually to help, if there's truth to any of this."
He adjusts his hat back into place. "Sorry to keep you, I really am."
9th Day of Autumn Twilight - 1030 PC - Tarsis the Beautiful -
You are able to get right next to her, she turns and stares right at you grinning, "Eldren! Hiya! How are you, I've really been enjoying this city how about you? Although uh, I don't really remember, why the heck did we come here..."
"The gnome wizard? The human Black Robe and his acquaintance?" Eldren does roll his eyes just a little bit, but his understanding of how the kender mind works does prevent him from reaching actual exasperation. "I was a little worried about you, I must admit. The ship crew would not have taken kindly to a stowaway, especially a kender. But all is well I take it? You have simply gone your own way?"
He smiles, even chuckles softly. "You should have stuck with me really. You would have certainly found the company I keep at the moment quite interesting." And then he thinks, just to himself, 'I do not know if the feeling would be mutual though...'
She will pull Draven into the room with her and the cleric of Astarin and close and lock the door behind them.
9th Day of Autumn Twilight - 1030 PC - Tarsis the Beautiful -
Kara's eyes go wide at the statement by Eddie, "True war..." she whispers. "You are right to tell me of this, while I cannot interrupt the ceremony, I will let the Revered Father know. I am sure that he will wish to speak with you and your friends at some point soon. I shall contact you when I know". She gives you a light kiss on the cheek and begins to walk both you ad Theo towards the doors.
9th Day of Autumn Twilight - 1030 PC - Tarsis the Beautiful -
Her eyes light up, "Oh right, the Black Robe! I came to help you, he seems rather fishy with those robes, did you know they are supposed to be evil".
She looks around for him, "It's a good thing I found you then! I'll stay with you to protect you, I am a great warrior you know. So... when can we meet these interesting people you are keeping company with!?"
9th Day of Autumn Twilight - 1030 PC - Tarsis the Beautiful -
Draven allows himself to be pulled in he gasps, "Damn these assassins!"
As you stand near the door watching you hear nothing from the hall. Then suddenly, the head of an axe pokes through the door!
Aristal casts a spell on Draven, "Branchala, heal this brave elven warrior!" the effect heals some of his wounds.
The axe head is removed and an arrow comes through the door, streaking at Aristal! At the same time, her spiritual weapon attacks the hole in the door. Both attacks miss their mark.
Assassin 1 Attack vs. Door CMD
Aristal - Cure Moderate Wounds - Spiritual Weapon - Damage
Assassin 2 Shortbow @ Aristal - - Damage
Draven F 3 - HP 31/33
Aristal Cl 4 - HP 25/25
Fighter 2 - HP = 22/22
Cleric 3/Rogue 1 - HP = 31/31
9th Day of Autumn Twilight - 1030 PC - Tarsis the Beautiful -
Caleb snorts, "As if Bandits and Pirates were not always a problem. If you all wish to serve with Haskin get ready for wild chases into the pains with no..."
Haskin spits in anger, "I am telling you, your guard has a mole, warning them we were coming!"
Caleb shakes his head, "Yes, it's all one grand conspiracy... or maybe it's just bandits and pirates. Been around forever, we'll never fully stamp them out".
Holding his hand out, as they are rushed out of the cathedral; Theo happily voices,
Ithasbeenreallynicetokindofmeetyou.IamTheodoreSamuelWaldenGlitterfounder,at yourservice.Wow,war!DoyouthinkthatImightbeapartofsomethingthatbig!
"The thing about war is: if it's really happening then you're already a part of it, like it or not" adds Eddie grimly.
Once they're out of the cathedral Eddie turns to Theo again "Thanks for the help back there, pal. Now, let's try and find the others. I think we're supposed to be making our way to the order of heroes next."
Geez, Eddie, I enjoy hanging with you. Let's go!
Brogg shrugs noncommittally. "If there are always bandits and pirates, then I'll always have work. Which is good. And you might as well stamp them out. It's like... you may not be able to stop every thief, but people still put locks on their chests to stop some of 'em. Stop the ones you can."
The daughter of Quenesti Pah will invoke her goddess' protection on her defender and cast protection from evil on him.
9th Day of Autumn Twilight - 1030 PC - Tarsis the Beautiful -
Caleb snorts, "As if Bandits and Pirates were not always a problem. If you all wish to serve with Haskin get ready for wild chases into the pains with no..."
Haskin spits in anger, "I am telling you, your guard has a mole, warning them we were coming!"
Caleb shakes his head, "Yes, it's all one grand conspiracy... or maybe it's just bandits and pirates. Been around forever, we'll never fully stamp them out".
Gaurm looks from one man to the other, "You both seem to fight for law and order and to protect the people, stop fighting between yourselves. Just because your paths are not the same does not make either of them wrong."
9th Day of Autumn Twilight - 1030 PC - Tarsis the Beautiful -
Caleb snorts, "Haskin is pure mercenary through and through. We do stop the ones we can but these tales of pirates and Khans of the east are just that, tales! No one has ever seen them that can verify the stories except criminals of the city who seek rewards for what they know. Head out of the city and seek out a fight if that is your wish but all you'll find is grass and dirt as that's all we found".
Red frowns, "I've a mission to accomplish here, to want these cleric of light about the War, if this is a chase, I'll not take part in it. I'd rather stay here... Look there, Eddie and Theo exit the Cathedral!"
Zsar remains quiet contemplating... he looks back and still sees Eldren speaking with the Kender as the crowds have thinned out somewhat from the welcoming ceremony at the cathedral and normal street traffic in this bustling part of the city returns to normal.
Haskin grunts, "Daylight is wasting, gather your fellows and I will show you the dangers the Guard and Soldiers have chosen to ignore".
9th Day of Autumn Twilight - 1030 PC - Tarsis the Beautiful -
Draven grabs a dagger from his belt and throws it out the window, "ASSASSINS!" He bellows.
The attacks cease... Aristal stays away from the door, "Do you think it is over?"
Eddie returns to the group.
"Alright, what's next boys?"
Hi everyone. Did you kniw that a war is coming? We should do something about that because, well, it seems right.