Allovin Dar's page

"We apologize for the disturbance Captain. The half-orc and his wizard companion have a quarrel with us over a business proposition and started a fight with us. We were trying to defend ourselves when the wizard began casting spells at my friend. The halfling who was making off with the artifacts is also a companion of theirs. As my friend says we will cooperate and if there is anything we can do to assist please let us know."

Diplomacy check on the Captain of the guards (1d20+11=30)

Seeing "Scepter" go after Elysia with a spell Allovin darts forward and raises his holy symbol shouting at top of his lungs, "IN THE NAME OF IOMEDAE AND THE RUBY PRINCE KHEMET THE III I ORDER YOU TO CEASE THIS VILLANCE AT ONCE!" as holy light explodes out from him in a circle engulfing everyone in its healing radiance.

Channel positive energy (2d6=3)

Perception check (1d20=19)

Sorry about not posting sooner this weekend. My plans kind of got changed last minute.

As your group travels through the bazaar, collecting the various supplies you are looking for, Kimu chats to the local vendors about genuine antiquities and in particular the mask Raegos told you about. One short wiry merchant, after selling Douena a hammer and chisel, cocks his head to one side as Kimu mentions the golden mask with alternating red and black feathers.

"I've seen a mask like that," he nods with a frown, trying to recall the details. "Where was it...? Yes, that's right...It was in the Sothis Exhibitory. It's been on display for years I think, one of a number of ancient masks they've got on show there." Looking around conspiratorially, he drops his voice to a whisper as he leans towards Kimu. "Although from what I hear, much of what the Arch Docent has in that collection is no more genuine than you can find in the bazaar." "Still," he continues, straightening up "the Sothis Exhibitory - I'm sure they've got something just like that on display."

"Perhaps we should make our way to the Sothis Exhibitory and take a look. Thank you sir! May Iomedae bless you."

Elysia will purchase some more glass beads as well as several of the beetle pendants during the shopping expedition.

"Allovin, I'm afraid I never got a really good look at your holy symbol before, but if I get a good look at what it's supposed to be I can make you a new one. I mean, if you wanted me too. It's okay if you'd rather just have a plain one, but I could make one that's really shiny if you like. I'll have a better idea of what kind of materials would be suitable once I see the symbol. I mean, I'm not anywhere near as good at this sort of thing as my father is, but I'm a pretty decent jeweler when I really put my mind to it."

Allovin will spend the 50GP to replace his holy symbol with a new one and give one to Elysia to work on.

Turning to Elysia, "I think that is a lovely idea and I would be honored. How about I purchase two of them. One as a temporary replacement and the other for you to work on or use a model. What do you think?"

"The Pathfinder lodge is safe enough and there isn't much we can do until our preparations are complete", Allovin says with a shrug.

Turning to Elysia with a smile, a sweep of his arm and a small bow, "After you."

As Elysia begins walking Allovin falls in next to her and says, "You mentioned previously that your father was a jeweler. If you don't mind me asking how did he learn the trade and where did he work? What was it like to have a jeweler for a father? My family and I were slaves for a chelish noble in Khorvosa when I was younger and though we've gained our freedom I can't help but be curious about how other halflings born free live. Most of my family has become either farmers or carpenters but being a jeweler is truly a skilled trade."

"Oh." Elysia looks a little disappointed, but only for a moment. "Well, I guess I'll just go shopping by myself then. Unless one of you wants to come along with me. I'm sure it will be lots of fun. There's always so many interesting things to see and do in the bazaar. And I'll be sure to pick up a new beetle for you, Douena. Maybe I'll get a few of them. I mean if somebody liked it enough to steal one, I bet I could make some more and give them to my father to sell. Since I'll be too busy with all this interesting adventuring to sell them myself of course."

"There is no need to go alone Elysia, I'll join you. Besides needing to pick up a new holy symbol I always like to take a stroll through the city before leaving into the desert. Helps me to keep in mind what is being left behind."

Allovin finishes his meal and strapping his sword to his waist gets down.

Turning to Elysia with a smile, "Shall we?"

Monty Haul wrote:

Kimu and Garai remain with Neferet who seems to be working diligently on her transcribing and translating tasks. Meanwhile, Allovin and Douena trail after Elysia as she prattles on, the three going out into the rapidly cooling night in search of food. Allovin has a slight frown and seems to be searching through his possessions for something as he leaves, Douena following the two halflings from the room with one last scowl over at the scribe.

Many of the street vendors and stalls are closing by now and it takes some time to find someone with hot food still for sale. Eventually, however you are successful and he seems delighted at the thought of being able to sell his remaining stock. He promises all manor of exotic flavored pies as well as a strange, dark stew served in a hard bun.

Douena is reaching into her bag for her coins when she lets out a soft cry of dismay and her big eyes fill with tears. "Oh, my beetle! It's gone! And you made it so lovely, Elysia!"

Startled out of his search for his holy symbol by Douena's exclamation Allovin frowns and adds, "So is my holy symbol of Iomedae. I think we may all want to check our belongings to see if anything else is missing and I would like to stop by the temple of Iomedae to find a replacement tomorrow. Hmmmm, I wonder if this has anything to do with that half-orc or halfling that trailed us...?" trailing off into thought. "Bah! Now I'm thinking like a human. I think I might head home for a while after this venture. I'm out on a beautiful night with two lovely ladies and here I am scheming and plotting like a Chelish noble. Yes, I think a vacation once we are done is in order. Now, lets grab what food we can and head back."

After paying for the food and thanking the vendor he turns to Elysia and Douena with a smile, "Shall we head back?"

While Douena and Neferet are squabbling Allovin quietly watches and reaching for the sixth sense gifted to him by Iomedae sense for the presence of evil in the room.

Allovin uses Detect Evil for a full 3 rounds

As the squabbling starts to die down Allovin looks at Neferet and says, "You may be correct in assuming that the scrolls are forgeries but if there is one thing I have learned in my life it is to not trust Chelish nobles. In either case, if you can determine whether they are indeed forgeries then we will pay you appropriately for the rending of services."

"Why, thank you little lady. Now, why don't some of us go and find some food to bring back while the others look through our goods?"

"I think that is a good idea. Why don't Douena, Elysia and I go out while you and Kimu stay here. I think you've risked your life enough for one night and I'm sure Kimu is interested in helping Neferet if possible or at least watching her work. Perhaps one of you could transcribe the events of tonight for the journal?"

Garai Stands as the others enter, wincing as he does so, and obviously deciding it wasn't a good option, he doesn't attempt to sit back down just yet...."Ahh, you are back. I do hope that your evening was less eventful than my own. I do also hope that the information you have acquired was worth it. You will remember the half-orc from the auction? He is not a very friendly chap, and had a message to deliver to us, and a rather strange fashion of delivery. Could someone help me with this small cut I appear to have acquired?"

"Of course my friend! My Iomedae reward you for your bravery!"

Allovin quickly walks over to Garai and stretching out his hand he touches his leg where after a brief glow of power his wounds heal up.

Use Lay on hands on Garai until he is healed.

"The information we gained should be most useful in our venture but we were followed from the auction. Douena caught a halfling, perhaps the one who accompanied the half-orc, eavesdropping on our conversation with Raegos, the gentleman the Mithril Scarab led us to meet. I suppose the half-orc had a message relating to our venture?"

Allovin Dar wrote:

As Douena disappears out the front flap of tent Allovin lays his hand upon his sword and motions for the others to keep an eye out as he begins looking and listening for anything out of the ordinary.

When Allovin hears Douena's words and the sound of retreating footsteps he draws his sword and runs out to join Douena.

DM, Allovin (and anyone who decides to follow Allovin out):** spoiler omitted **

DM, Douena, and anyone who followed me out...

As Douena disappears out the front flap of tent Allovin lays his hand upon his sword and motions for the others to keep an eye out as he begins looking and listening for anything out of the ordinary.

When Allovin hears Douena's words and the sound of retreating footsteps he draws his sword and runs out to join Douena.

Perception check (1d20=18)

I think I roll better with no modifiers than with. Woot!

Elysia, Douena, Kimu, Allovin:

** spoiler omitted **

"Well sir, if you could tell us what you know about the tomb that would go along way to helping us stay alive. While I do not fear death it behooves my friends and I to know as much about the tombs so that we might protect ourselves. While you might be able to convince us not to risk our lives no doubt there are others who will want to exploit the tomb who would likely not care how many lives they threw away to get what they want. I'd rather see as few lives lost exploring the tomb as possible and I'd like to see the history and artifacts of Osirion end up in the hands of the people. Your help is all we ask."

Diplomacy check on Raegos (1d20+11=16)

Elysia, (Kimu), Allovin and Douena:

** spoiler omitted **

Yes, Allovin has a silver holy symbol.

Perception check (1d20=16)

Garai Neferotep wrote:

"I would suggest that we pass the scrolls to our new friend Neferet, and arrange to meet her in the morning to discuss her finding, at that point we can look at the other items together. That will give us time to escort this fine lady whilst we go about the other business we have this night."

Garai doesn't really think the scrolls are worth much, so they will keep Neferet out of the way without being a big loss if she does one....

Neferet has been following the interaction with the veiled newcomer with a puzzled look. At Garai's comment, she interjects with a slight look of concern.

"Er...I'm not completely sure that I find that reasonable," she begins carefully, with a nervous swallow. "I mean...I didnt actually bid on the scrolls and given what that Chelish nobleman said I'm not even sure they're genuine. As far as I can see, I paid for a part of the rubbings," she pauses as her eyes flick from person to person, eventually settling on Allovin.

"Our agreement was that I'd pay a third and in exchange I'd be able to make a copy for myself, you would keep the originals," she says. "Wouldnt it be reasonable to allow me to keep a third of them in the interim? As collateral if you like, plus I could get started tonight on translation while you...do whatever it is you're going to do... There's no point in me running off with only a third of them, so you needn't worry about that. This way it at least provides some assurance that I will see you again....No offence intended of course, but please put yourself in my position."

"That would be more than fair. Why don't you take the first half of the rubbings and we can meet at the pathfinder lodge to discuss anything you've found and what we want to do with them. I apologize, we don't want to short change you of what you've rightly paid for."

Allovin will give her the first half of the rubbings and hand the rest to Kimu.

Turning again to Neferet, "Come to the pathfinder lodge tomorrow after sunrise and ask for Allovin Dar."

The Kemesarian tries desperately to entice further offers from the assembled bidders but it is clear that nobody is willing to take the risk. As he declares Allovin the winner, the crowd begin chatting noisily amongst themselves as the auction disbands. A eunuch delivers the scrolls to Allovin and collect twenty gold pieces from him as the security guards efficiently pack up the rope barrier and lift the sides of the pavilion, allowing the assembled spectators to empty rapidly into the bazaar.

As the five of you rise to leave, Neferet is grinning broadly at the results of the auction. Before you leave, a woman materialises from the throng, her face veiled by a white scarf as she approaches Allovin unrolling what appears to be a map of Sothis.

"Excuse me sir," she begins, "I wonder if you would be able to help me find my destination. I'm new to Sothis and I fear that I've got a little lost..."

"Why yes mam I can certainly assist you," Allovin says with a smile.

As she presents the map for Allovin's inspection, her fingers roam to the compass rose at the bottom of th page to indicate the Pathfinder rune hidden subtly within the design. Her brilliant, blue eyes watch you intently from behind her veil. When she is sure you have understood her meaning, she proceeds further with her charade.

"I'm running late for a meeting around here," she continues pointing vaguely toward one area of the map. "Would you be kind enough to tell me where I should be going? Or even to accompany me some of the way, if you have the time?"

"Why I know that area very well and would be happy to show you the way. Besides, I don't know about everyone else, but after the stifling heat of the tent a walk in the cool night air would be quite refreshing."

Allovin Dar wrote:

"Twenty gold please," Allovin states calmly after checking the coffer. Though no longer sure of the validity of the scrolls he figured Nefueret wold likely be able to tell and so decided to keep bidding.

Douena's head whips around, a shocked and aggrieved expression on her face. "You just bid against me," she protests in a strained whisper. "We could have had it for six."

Allovin pauses for a moment considering Douena's words before a look of embarrassment sets in.

"I apologize. I got caught up in the excitement of bidding and didn't consider I was bidding against a friend. I'm sorry..." he says looking slightly abashed.

If Allovin wins the bid he will pay for the scrolls out of his own pocket.

"And finally," begins the Kemesarian grandly, "a collection of ancient scrolls said to have been penned by the Pharaoh of Numbers himself! Imagine the prestige of owning a relic once held by one of the mythical rulers of Ancient Osirion!" as he begins his spiel, the group of Chelish legionnaires in the front row begin noisily standing and preparing to leave, the nobleman and retainer also getting to their feet.

"Gentlemen, I would have thought you would want to participate in this," implores the Kemesarian with a worried frown. At that the aloof man looks over at the scrolls with a disdainful look.

"Save your breath Charlatan," he sneers. "I am a world expert in Ancient Osirion and I could see immediately that those...papers are a fraud, nothing more. The grammar is all wrong, those symbols weren't even in use until a hundred years ago. No doubt you and your lackeys spent many hours developing that aged look... But it's not going to work on those of us with taste. Perhaps someone else here will be gullible enough to buy your forgeries!"

With that, the Chelish contingent leave, the Kemesarian furiously denying the allegations from the stage. Security make a move, as if to stop the bidders from leaving, however it's clear that a brawl with the heavily armed legionnaires is the last thing they want. As they file out of the pavillion, the rest of the registered bidders are all whispering amongst themselves whilst the auctioneer tries to reassure everyone assembled that the scrolls are genuine.

When a semblance of calm is restored, the Kemesarian begins the auction for the final lot, inviting bids from those bidders who remain. It is clear that any interest has waned however, after several requests, the halfling who has loitered at the rear of the private area raises his hand.

"Five gold pieces," he bids with a grin. "I guess I can always write on the back." The Kemesarian struggles to compose himself, the fury clearly visible as he acknowledges the offer.

"Five gold," he calls tersely. "Surely a...

"Twenty gold please," Allovin states calmly after checking the coffer. Though no longer sure of the validity of the scrolls he figured Nefueret wold likely be able to tell and so decided to keep bidding.

The Arch Docent considers for a moment before making his next bid.

"Sixty gold pieces," he announces.

"Seventy five," declares the man in the front row disdainfully. At that the Arch Docent mutters to himself, indicating to the Kemesarian that he is not interested in bidding further. The sale is announced and the auctioneer waits as the transaction is completed before moving on to the next lot.

"Next we have genuine charcoal rubbings taken from the most recently uncovered tomb of Ancient Osirion," declares the Kemesarian. "Such a find will surely amaze scholars and other learned folk for years to come. Who can say what secrets these hieroglyphs may reveal? What am I bid? Can anyone pass up such a rare opportunity?"

Neferet looks at you all, unsure if she should bid or not. Clearing her throat, she eventually raises her hand nervously. "Twenty gold pieces," she calls as the Kemesarian acknowledges her.

"Twenty gold, a bargain by any measure."

"Thirty gold," this from one of the group of sages. Looking over at them, Neferet responds immediately.

"Forty," she says, more firmly this time.

"Fifty," replies the sage who seems to be speaking for the group. Neferet turns to you helplessly.

"That's beyond my ability to pay," she confesses slightly dejectedly. "Is my suggestion acceptable to you? I'll pay a third of whatever you bid and translate it for you free of charge. In return, you'll allow me to make a copy for myself. I have fifty gold available, so provided you dont go higher than one hundred and fifty I can afford it."

Allovin carefully inspects the contents of the small coffer before raising his silver ankh and saying, "Sixty".

Allovin will bid up to 200GP (20 platinum) for the rubbings and will inspect the money inside the coffer before each bid.

Alovin smiles and chuckles a little at the site of the jubilant Douena bidding on the statuette. Content to watch and enjoy the bidding at this point Allovin takes a moment to open the cask in his lap and carefully inspect the platinum inside. Content that everything is happening as it should he says a silent prayer to Iomedae for guidance and goes back to watching the bidding.

As you discuss the items quietly amongst yourselves, the single woman who was lingering apart from the other sages moves over to speak to you. Waiting politely until you acknowledge her, she steps forward with a smile and bows her head slightly. THe slight woman introduces herself in Taldane (common), with a noticeable Osirion accent. She seems fairly young, wearing well-made but plain clothes and very little jewellery. One exception being a silver ankh pinned to her tunic, indicating that she is a registered bidder at the upcoming auction.

“Greetings Sir,” she begins formally, addressing Kimu. “My name is Neferet Anu, a translator recently from the university and currently seeking retainer. I noticed you were interested in the ancient writings and wish to offer my services, should you end up the lucky winner in tonight’s auction.” Pausing slightly she gives a slightly self-deprecating shrug.

“I must confess I intend to bid on those items myself, however looking around at who is here this evening I’m not very confident that my resources are going to suffice. I would be prepared to work for a token fee if you would also permit me to make a copy for my own use.”

Sense Motive check on Neferet Anu (1d20+4=16)

"Welcome. My name is Allovin Dar, servant of Iomedae, and as friend Kimu stated, if we should happen to win the scrolls then we could most certainly use someone with your talents. Tell me, I was informed that these scrolls are from a time that scholars have little knowledge of. How would you go about translating them? Do you have experience working with artifacts like these?"

Diplomacy check on Neferet Anu (1d20+11=14)

Kimu looks confused at Garai's assertion. What's that? No, no, that's not what Jalden said at all." Again, he lowers his voice to discuss the details. "She said that we are to make ourselves known to our contact through the manner of our bidding, remember? But she did leave the choices of what we bid on to our judgment as to what will be beneficial to us in our expedition. Now she did say that we will not be keeping any artifacts that we acquire in this way. They are simply to be used as tools for the duration of our exploration, and then handed over to the Pathfinder Society once we have successfully completed our charge." Kimu looks around at the others for support or acknowledgment. "I am not misremembering this, am I?" he asks the halflings and gnome, raising his eyebrows in what seems to be a characteristic expression of his.

"I believe you are correct Kimu. That was my understanding as well. I'm inclined to bid on the scrolls and the rubbings as they look like they might be of most use going forward..."

Allovin will spend his time inspecting each of the items up for auction and will take a good look at the scrolls, the statue of the god, and the green discs. Is there anything to note about the scrolls upon closer inspection?

As the auction approaches, the pavilion is filling fast. There are hordes of onlookers behind the ropes, under the close eye of the heavy security. Within the restricted area, a number of chairs have been set out in front of the stage, however most of the prospective bidders are preferring to stand, dotted around the area in small groups as they murmur quietly amongst their small groups. The exception to this is a haughty, finely dressed man with a neatly trimmed beard who sits right in the centre of the front row. His robes are richly appointed and he holds an ornate, metal rod casually as he makes the occasional comment to the companion at his right. This second man is smaller, with dark hair. He wears no armor and cradles a strange wooden device, decorated with fine metalwork. He seems to be attending to the taller nobleman and the two of them are flanked by half a dozen Chelish legionnaires.

Continuing to look around the restricted area, you see a woman with the hood of her robe pulled up, despite the heat, standing off to one side with her hulking bodyguard. The large, bare chested man wears a small gemstone on his forehead. His skin seems grey and leathery, almost appearing to be a statue when he stands still. Not speaking to his mistress, he remains close, his gaze continually sweeping the room, moving to intercept anyone who seems to be approaching his charge.

DC 10 Local Lore:
** spoiler omitted **

DC 15 Local Lore:
** spoiler omitted **

There is a loud group of three nobles, together with half a dozen retainers, who have congregated together, laughing loudly and boasting of their intention to buy everything on offer at this evening’s auction. All...

Can we make the knowledge: local check untrained?

As evening approaches, you all assemble at the Pathfinder Lodge. When you are all ready, Allovin leads the way, confidently guiding you through the streets of Sothis towards the Malhitu Bazaar. Noticeably cooler now, the crowds are busy and vibrant, shaking off the lethargy that was brought on by the oppressive, afternoon heat. The bazaar is in full swing, throngs of people pressing through the maze of tents as traders offer you all manner of goods and services. Without pause, Allovin leads you to a more secluded, out of the way part of the enormous, open market. There you find a very large, white pavilion rapidly filling in preparation for the evening’s auction. At the door are two well armed and keen eyed guards who politely ask whether you are here as an observer or as a bidder.

“Entry is free to those who are just here for the show,” the guard informs you courteously. “However, if you wish to be a participant in the auction, you must pay a ten gold coin registration fee.”

Peering inside you can see a small stage with a semi-circular roped off area around it. Those who choose not to register are allowed no closer than the barrier. Those who have paid the registration fee are clearly permitted to have a small entourage, so only one of you would need to register to gain access for all of you. Most who are entering the tent remain in the public area behind the rope, however a few groups of registered bidders are beginning to filter in. Under the watchful eye of half a dozen eunuchs, they are permitted to examine the various lots which have been displayed on the stage.

Stepping forward with a bright smile and a small sweep of his cloak...

Diplomacy check for the guards at the entrance to the auction. (1d20+11=27)

Douena Trestleben wrote:

"So the paladin gets the platinum, and the rest of us get the afternoon off," Douena exclaims, jumping down from the chair. "But who are we asking around about, the Scarab person or the man who's been to the pyramid? Because we probably shouldn't ask around about him, in case we tip someone else off that he even exists. They might get to him before us." She considers. "Maybe we should rest up this afternoon, and then we could leave immediately after we talk to him and make sure we get a head start? Desna herself travels by starlight, after all."

"I agree, we should travel in the night time. We will need to speak to The Scarab, and then to the man whom has visited the temple, but hopefully that will leave us enough night to make a good start, without arousing too much suspicion. I will go now an procure a room, unless our Paladinic friend here would like help with the Platinum?"

Garai will wander off, and find rooms, sleep a bit, possibly wander out to procure writing materials, and meet the group back in the room at the allotted hour.

"I keep a room on the premises with a lock box where we can store the platinum so there should be no need to worry about the money. Anyone who needs a room should procure one and we can meet back here before heading to the auction."

"This is certainly a historical opportunity that I would be remiss to not take advantage of and I for one would be glad to ensure that the people of Osirion received what is rightfully theirs. Do we have guidelines as to what constitutes an item of national significance or will the status of an item be judged upon our return?"

Kimu seems to have been thinking deeply during the past minute or so. Suddenly he turns to Douena. "I've studied a bit of ancient history, and although it's not one of my specialties, I do recall a bit of information on the four pharaohs. In ancient days, these four pharaohs vied against each other for dominance of the Osirian Empire. After a long rivalry, they began to see the damage that their fierce competition was causing to the country and people of Osirion. According to some accounts, the empire was on the verge of fracturing into different political factions, and the internecine violence that began to rend the social fabric was what finally caused the four pharaohs to realize the dire situation that their rivalry had created. To reverse this political disintegration, the four made a magical pact, binding their fates together, ensuring that they would rule together and die together."

Kimu pauses here to look around the table, as if surveying the attention of his audience. After a moment, he continues speaking. "The four pharaohs were known as The Cerulean Pharaoh, the Fiend Pharaoh, the Radiant Pharaoh, and the Pharaoh of Numbers. Although the true name of the Pharaoh of Numbers has been lost to history, scholars have determined the proper names of the other three. The Cerulean Pharaoh was named Anok Fero; the Fiend Pharaoh, Hetshepsu; and the Radiant Pharaoh was called Ankana."

"Our times could use more rulers like that. Four individuals who might not have liked each other much but realized that by working together they could accomplish more good for their people. By the blessings of Iomedae there is a good sermon there and I'll be glad to have someone along who knows some of the history of Osirion."

“Rest assured you will not be examined on literary form,” replies Jalden with a quiet laugh. “We seek accurate information, not bedside reading. A simple recounting of what you see and do is all we ask.” Turning more serious, she lowers her voice again as she continues in a more conspiratorial tone.

“With regards to your first question, as far as most know this is indeed the first expedition inside the fabled pyramid. However, one of our agents has learnt of a previous, failed expedition several decades ago. Further, she has managed to track down the sole survivor of that expedition, a man who still lives right here in Sothis. There will be many seeking the route to the pyramid, hopefully this added information will give you an advantage over all those rivals.”

“Whether someone beats you to the prize is entirely up to you,” she says with a smile towards Douena. "You'll have to win that race if you truly want to be the first to see what treasures wait inside."

"Who would this individual be and what has he/she been doing for the last decade?"

"Oh, are you from Varisia? I've always wanted to go there. What's it like? I grew up here, in this city. I've never actually been anywhere else, but I love to hear the stories. I've heard of so many fascinating things. Like snow. Have you ever seen snow? It sounds like such fascinating stuff. Ice falling from the sky. It seems so strange. What else is different about Varisia? Are there deserts? Or lots of growing things?"

Elysia leans forward in fascination, her blue eyes dancing with excitement.

"Haha. I'm originally from Khorvosa but my family relocated to northern Varisia a little over 15 years ago. I spent most of my time somewhere in or around Magnimar and Khorvosa while the last three years I've been here in Sothis doing odd jobs for the church of Iomedae and for the Pathfinders. I became a chapter member of the Pathfinders upon arriving in Sothis but most of my life has been spent fighting slavers in and around Khorvosa and raising money to support the people we freed."

Allovin trails off for a moment with the sound of sadness and regret on his voice as the talk of his past brings up some painful memories but quickly brightens up with a smile and adds, "But enough of that, yes I have seen snow and the forests and fields of Varisia are especially beautiful after a fresh snow fall. Perhaps I could take you there one day and show you the falls north of Magnimar after a fresh snow. The air sparkles with the morning sunlight as if the droplets of water and snow drifting on the air were diamonds." he adds with a smile.

"Oh, I don't mind. Not at all. I love the smell of a good pipe. What kind of tobacco do you favor, good sir paladin?"

"Lately it's been a fine stock of Varisian tobacco from just north of Magnimar that reminds me of home..."

With that Allovin seems to lose focus for a second and stares off into the distance revisiting old memories as he takes a long draw from his pipe and slowly lets it out.

Kimu Zharket wrote:

Directing his attention to Elysia, he asks, "How are you with traps and locks?"

Doena glances conspiratorially at Elysia. "They always suspect the halfling, don't they? A human, a half-elf, a gnome, and a halfling walk into a store, and who does the proprietor keep his eagle eye on? The halfling, every time!" She turns her laughing eyes to Allovin. "How about you, paladin? Any special talents at breaking and entering? Picking pockets perhaps?"

"Hahahahaha. My only talents at breaking and entering involve kicking down the door of evil doers while brandishing the law and a sword and the only pockets I've picked are those of my spare trousers trying to find a few coins to buy a snack. There are many evils in the world and prejudice is just one of them. Anyway, you should see the looks I get when shop owners realize I'm a servant of Iomedae and not some little kid playing knight."

"Well with a little courage, determination, and the blessing of Iomedae we should be fine. The challenges will likely be many but so are our combined talents; if we work together and keep our wits about us we shall have the depths of the tomb plumbed in no time. Besides, no cursed undead can stand up to the holy power and might of Iomedae. Our real concern will likely be with other parties of explorers. I doubt the Pathfinders are the only ones who know of the tomb and anyone else who does, I bet, will be scrambling to put together a party of explorers to get there before we do."

Allovin takes a beautiful guilded pipe and a tobacco pouch out from a small purse at his belt, prepares the pipe with tobacco, and turns to the others, "Does anyone mind if I smoke?"

"Ah! Hello, noble knight. Allovin, did you say? And just in time! Things were beginning to seem rather tense." Kimu delivers a pointed, unfriendly look at Garai, then pointedly ignores the man. Addressing Allovin again, he amiably observes, "And you, a servant of Iomedae, nonetheless. Quite a demanding calling, I should imagine."

"Demanding indeed but worth every scar and injury I've accumulated over the years."

Garai ignores the fop's insult, and looking around the group asks, "Does anyone know for what we have all been gathered? I was not told much, as this is my first trip out with a Pathfinder group. I was told I would be informed at this meeting..."

"I don't know why we are here myself but I suspect that Venture Captain Jalden will join use once he has been notified that all of the expected members of the expedition have arrived. So as long as none of us are particularly late he'll probably be along shortly."

The door is opened once again by the aide and in walks a towering halfling dressed in mail with the symbol of Iomedae displayed prominently on his tabard and a scarlet cloak about his shoulders.

His gaze quickly scanning the room and its inhabitants...

"Ha! Greetings. My name is Allovin Dar, a servant of our shining lady Iomedae, and a chapter member of the Pathfinders. I'm glad to see we have such a robust group of individuals for this venture."

Approaching Garai...

"Hello Sir. I believe we've met once before on a caravan across the desert. Garai Neferotep correct?"

Seeing Elysia...

"Hello Miss. It has been a long time since I've seen let alone spoken with a fellow halfling and it is certainly a pleasure to meet you." Adding a bright smile and a bow.

Turning to Douena...

"Hello madame. I'm quite pleased to meet you. It is always a blessing to travel with a follower of Desna."

Turning to Kimu...

"Hello Sir. That is a rather fine hat you have there and I'm pleased to meet you."

Here is Allovin Dar my halfling paladin of Cayden Cailean. I am still working on his background which should be up shortly.

Hopefully there shouldn't be any problem with having him be a follower of Cayden Cailean but if there is I can easily switch him back to Sarenrae.