Logos's Shadows of Sharn Campaign


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The White Stone of the Bridges looked Dull under the grey light of the Sharn Sky. Occasionally a glimmer of sunlight would sift thru, probably going to someone more deserving of it than you. The Host doesn't want you for a sunbeam, but if your lucky whoever hired out "The Oaks", Will. You chuckle softly to yourself thinking of every piss poor and stinking adventurer mucking up what used to be one of the best restaurants in Sharn. Stepping off the dull white streets, the sunlight fading as you do, you let yourself into the door with the neat sign that says "Able Men and Women Wanted for Precipitous Tasks involving the Security of Sharn"

The Dim Light does little to hide the grandeur of the place. A huge central Pillared room, filled with horribly out of place common wooden Chairs and Tables. This place was Looted Horribly during the Riots and when the owner was found hanging in her bedroom the city took over the property.Whoever rented this place had a pretty penny to spend.

A few men rattled dice and played cards in secluded corners, The Grim of their shoes clashing with the fine quality of stone and cut of the floor. Occassional a name is yelled, names like "Thurpt , Rupert" common names. The Stink of Disperation hang low in the air,like a dog waiting to bite. Food was scarce and cost money, and all the rooftop guardens in the world wouldn't change the fact that sharn had lost its breadbasket in the mourning.

Quickly, a Clean if plain looking servent shows up, taking your name and offering you two chits , gesturing to a crudely set up bar, where many people were being helped to what looked like watered down ale. Settling down you see a wide varity of people as they look at you sizing you up.

[Character Descriptions, and anything you'd like to say]


Female She believes herself to be an Aasimar Archivist 3

I'm used to hanging back, being as quiet and unobtrusive as I can, and sizing people up.

Do I recognize anyone?


I enter the room with my face swathed in bandages to conceal my scars. Tis best not to upset anyone here. I pick a shadowed part of the room to settle in to await my interview.

I spend my time taking stock of my weapons and surroundings.


EDIT: (added description) I am short and lean. Thick black hair spills out from under my broad-brimmed hat, which is pulled low over my eyes, cloaking my face in shadow. My clothing identifies me as a tradesman, but the bow slung across my back and sword at my belt suggest otherwise. I have an easy gait and a quiet manner, cautious but not nervous.

The air in this place is bad. Most of Sharn stinks, but in here it is putrid - death and decay paritally masked by sweat, vomit, and cheap liquor. I make my way to the bar and order a small beer. It looks and smells like urine. Still probably better than the water. Rather than stand at the bar with my back to the door, I make my way to a side of the room where I can lean against the wall and see the door. I try to get a rough count of the people and see if any look dangerous. Quite a collection here - though most look like they belong on a farm or in a shop. What desparate circumstance has brought them here? If they knew what was good for them, they'd lock themselves in their homes.

The beer tastes as bad is it smells. I quietly pour it out on the floor behind me and, leaving my tankard behind, circle around the perimeter of the room keeping my eyes and ears open and one hand near the pommel of my sword. What in all that is holy am I doing here - with these ... people?


Female She believes herself to be an Aasimar Archivist 3

When the fellow with the broad-drimmed hat wanders over to my area of the room, I look up from the book I'm half-reading, toss him a glance, and, turning back to the book, say with a smile:

"You look like you're on the prowl, scoping out prey. See any likely lambs?"


I make my way to the makeshift bar, running my pale thin fingers through my dark brown, shoulder length hair. I'm sizing up the room as I do. 'Can't help but feel disheartened...seeing such a grand place fallen into disrepair.' At the bar I lean my slender, dark-swathed body on the nearest support. Dull metal glints off my twin daggers, prized possessions, that hang from sheathes at my sides.

I take a cup of the swill they're passing for ale and drink heartily. The filthy water I've had to make do with lately, makes this ale seem like fine wine...not that I've ever had the pleasure of trying fine wine.

I give a surreptitious glance about, trying to spot any signs of trouble that may be hiding among the gathered rabble. My large, brown eyes linger briefly on a bandaged man who is slipping into a shadowy part of the room. Anywhere else it would seem to be bad news, but not here. Here such behaviour is merely wise.

'As wise as having your wits about you, like the young woman who is taking in the surroundings, even as she feigns reading her book. Can't help but wonder what brings her here. I guess the times make beggars of us all.' I continue sipping at the ale, as a well-armed tradesman in a broad-brimmed hat crosses the room nearing the woman. My eyebrows raise only slightly when she speaks to him. 'Perhaps they know each other...'

'Interesting fellows have come for this job, if indeed all of us are here for that same cause. If we end up waiting overlong I'll have to try my luck at one of those games of dice…see if I can't earn enough for a piece of bread somewhere.'


Lucienne wrote:

When the fellow with the broad-drimmed hat wanders over to my area of the room, I look up from the book I'm half-reading, toss him a glance, and, turning back to the book, say with a smile:

"You look like you're on the prowl, scoping out prey. See any likely lambs?"

Of all the people to see here a girl reading a book is the last thing I expected. Best to keep an eye on her. Anyone so out of place in a den of knaves like this is more than they appear.

"I've no cause to rob these 'ere ... peasants. Not like ta find a penny among 'em, me thinks."

I tip my hat slightly by way of greeting, careful not to let the dim light fall on my face. No need to be uncivil. I straighten up a touch, trying to sureptitiously glimpse the title of her book. Probably wouldn't understand it anyway ... so little published since the Mourning and anything not valuable has been burned for fuel. Which means this book is probably valuable ... maybe there is something of value in this place after all.

"Reading, eh? This ain't a library."


Female She believes herself to be an Aasimar Archivist 3

Kegi wrote: "Reading, eh? This ain't a library."

"You sure about that?" the young woman asks quietly. "Everybody in this room is a book, if you know how to read them. Come, sit down. So far as I can tell, nobody here is planning on starting trouble. My name's Lucienne, by the way."


The Women up Front Yells " Romulus " And Points to the Door behinde here.

It's Interview Time!

Any Last Words.

L


Lucienne wrote:


"You sure about that?" the young woman asks quietly. "Everybody in this room is a book, if you know how to read them. Come, sit down. So far as I can tell, nobody here is planning on starting trouble. My name's Lucienne, by the way."

I pull a chair around across from the woman, but turn it sideways so I'm still facing towards the center of the room. Sliding my bow off my back, I sit with my bow on my lap. This isn't exactly what I had in mind. But most of the folk here seem harmless enough. Though this one ... is she an aristocrat, a wizard, or what?

"Well met, Lucienne. I go by Kegi. What book be you reading now?"

Though I'm talking to Lucienne, I don't make eye contact, leaving the meaning of my question ambiguous.

"Alas, we ha' begun and they call the cripple. Gods help us if they be that desperate.


Female She believes herself to be an Aasimar Archivist 3
Kegi wrote:


"Well met, Lucienne. I go by Kegi. What book be you reading now?"

Though I'm talking to Lucienne, I don't make eye contact, leaving the meaning of my question ambiguous.

"Alas, we ha' begun and they call the cripple. Gods help us if they be that desperate."

Lucienne doesn't look at Kegi, either. (If Kegi steals a glance, he'll notice that the text in front of her is written in an academic form of common, with carefully drawn diagrams and several passages in other languages, by the way.) She turns the page, idly looking the room over as Romulus responds to his name. (For example, does anyone else react to his name?)

Under her breath, she says, "What am I reading? Oh, just an old story about a self-confident young man who gets his butt handed to him by a cripple.

"And I don't think they're desperate. I think they're being particular. Have you been noticing the folks like Rupert, who haven't been quite what they're looking for?"


The People Due to various stages of Drink, Seem to lift their heads halfhearted before returning to look at the floor.

The Air Seems Hot and Stinks, Almost Beyond porportion for the room .You notice someone a table over has taken to rocking slowly back and forth as if to comfort themselves. They seem to be afraid of something. Their drink Tickets and Money Fold lay forgotton on the bench next to them.

Kegi from somewere behind you ( Yes I know your sitting next to a wall, but it seems to have come from the side and echoed off the wall) you hear a muttering under the breath about how shifters are stinking up the place, and how "They're gonna get what's coming to them"


Female She believes herself to be an Aasimar Archivist 3

Did Lucienne hear that? Did she see who said that?


Luciene did not hear it, and sees only a wall behhind kegi


Lucienne wrote:


Under her breath, she says, "What am I reading? Oh, just an old story about a self-confident young man who gets his butt handed to him by a cripple.

I chuckle a little to myself. The arrogance of the Brelish never ceases to amaze me. Perhaps she is too young ... but all that book learning ... surely she would know of Marguul Pass.

"An old tale indeed, an' one that never tires for the tellin'. Too bad none e're listens."

I look around suddenly as if expecting to see someone behind me. Of course, there is only the wall. Hearing voices now am I? I slowly scan the room looking for anyone competent enough to present a genuine threat. Meanwhile I adjust my quiver and rest my right hand on the fletching of an arrow.

"Methinks it be time for ol' Rupert ta get himself home," I say quietly, gesturing to the person at the next table.

At the Battle of Marguul Pass (970 YK) the Brelish sent their mobile fortress Veldarren and a large contingent of soldiers against the Hobgoblins of Darguun as retaliation for the Hobgoblin's brutal treatment of Brelish settlers. In a loss akin to the Japanese at Midway, the outmatched and outclassed Hobgoblins carried the day, handing Breland a stunning and embarrassing defeat. (See The Forge of War p. 33)


Female She believes herself to be an Aasimar Archivist 3

Well, that was certainly a sudden change.

Lucienne stops and looks at her companion, her brows raised in silent inquiry.


Logos wrote:

The Women up Front Yells " Romulus " And Points to the Door behinde here.

It's Interview Time!

Any Last Words.

L

sorry for the delayed reply, my internet connection was down

I emerge from the shadows. In a deep voice, I reply: "Here." Then I proceed to the door indicated. All of my senses strain to take in all of my surrounding.

I cautiously tap my staff on the door. "I am Romulus," I declare. Then I open the door and proceed inside.

What do I see?


For Romulus

Spoiler:
The Former Kitchen of the Restaurant lays before you, numerous cast iron stoves, far to heavy to loot, lay about.The Black Iron of One of them fired up, a Wizened Old Gnome Sits, Occasionally taking a deep breath and sniff, and watching his cake rise.

Pointing to the Stool beside him, the gnome waits for you to settle down before begining.

"I'm glad you could make it Romulus, What I have been doing so far is talking a little about myself and the job, and then a little about you, so lets get started."

"My Name is Pennywise Grey, I am working for the government of sharn. My purpose is to monitor curruption in the police force, and as such I have been autorized to create a team of experts from outside of the police force. Most of the job is in the realm of investigation, some retreval, and some experimental magic. You might be wondering why I am being so forward about this, but you wont remember any of this unless you are choosen for the job. But now lets talk about you, and first and foremost you must remove those bandages, It really wouldn't do for me to hire a unregistered dragonmark now would it? So what do you bring to the party per say?

Something strikes you as a little odd about the situation, the gnome, everything. Something is dancing out of the corner of your eye, a man of some kind maybe. You look around nervously but see nothing.

The Gnome Reassuringly Pats you on the knee, "Nothing to worry about here"

Lucienne, you gasp as someone pinches your bottom, somehow.


Female She believes herself to be an Aasimar Archivist 3

"You're not the only one. I just felt something, too."

Logos:
Lucienne suspects that either there's something invisible, still nearby; or else someone is creating some sort of tactile illusion.


Lucienne wrote:

"You're not the only one. I just felt something, too."

Strange ... does our host mean to test us with parlor tricks? Or is something more sinister going on?

"There be a foul taint in the air, yes? Have ye means ta defend y'self if it come ta it?"


Male Human Sorcerer 3

The door opens again, and in steps a tall figure wearing a long black coat and wide-brimmed hat pulled low over his eyes. He blinks oddly as he exits the dim light outside and enters the dimmer room. He takes a quick moment to scan the room, apparently unconcerned that everyone else is looking him over as he is examining them in the sudden silence of his entrance.
When the girl appears to take his name his name, he gives it quietly and accepts the chits she hands him, tipping his hat back slightly as he does so, revealing a 'devilishly' handsome face framed by shoulder-length black hair, and a neatly trimmed goatee. The only crack in his demeanor seems to be a look of discomfort that flashes across his face at the genuine smile that the girl gives him. Then it is gone, and the man smoothly makes his way to the bar, his over-sized walking stick (only the truly generous would call it a staff) tapping in time with his steps as he crosses the room.

As I open the door and enter the room, I use the old trick of closing one eye as I enter, and then switch eyes as I get inside to prevent being blinded by moving into the darker room. I examine the room as my new 'friends' give me the once over. The first thing I notice is the smell. Desperation and cheap beer. The beer I didn't mind. I haven't been able to afford ANY beer lately, so it was likely to taste pretty good. The desperation I was used to. At least here it wasn't just me.
I had entered just in time to see a door behind the front desk close. I caught a glimpse of an outfit that could have been mine. Great. Already my novelty has worn off.

A young girl approached me, to take my name and give me a chit for the bar. I gave my name quietly, instinctively pushing back my hat as I did so. She had the usual reaction for a girl her age. She smiled. I remembered myself and tugged my hat back down low as I made my way to the bar. It was too early in the day for complications.

From what I saw as I crossed the room, most of the people there were worse off than I was. These were the same people who came to 'hire' me but could never pay. Figures. There were one or two exceptions however. I accepted my mug of fugly beer and sipped it, savoring its bitter taste. Then I turned my attention to the others.

The 'Tall, Dark & Handsome' man is not taking too much trouble to hide the fact that he is giving the shifter and woman with the book a closer look.

The Exchange RPG Superstar 2010 Top 16

Kegi wrote:
"There be a foul taint in the air, yes? Have ye means ta defend y'self if it come ta it?"

"Against evil spirits or some foul magics, yes. Crunchier foes I'll leave to you."

She carefully closes the book, and smoothly packs it away as she stands. In one no-nonsense move, she's armed.


For Logos

Spoiler:

"Your candor convinces me that you think that you have all the cards. Very well if you wish to have a look at my face then so be it. But be warned 'tis not a pretty sight."

With that, I start unwinding the bandages covering my face until my thoroughly scarred face is in full view. "Pennywise, I hope this," referring to my scars, "doesn't lose me the job."

"Anyways, you wanted to know something about me. Would you believe me when I tell you that I spent the last thirty years of the Last War farming the land my ancestors left me...and that I was never schooled in magic... well I guess not." With a few arcane words and subtle gestures, I cause a fire to spring forth from my index finger. I then lit my pipe.

"So for the record, let us say that when I reached the age of majority the gods blessed me with the grace of magic and that I have earned my keep with that magic. That I never joined any of the armies fighting the Last War and that I was survived the catastrophe that destroyed Cyre. How? I don't know. As to why you should trust me, consider this: 'Nothing is more reliable than a man whose loyalty you can buy for cold hard cash.' Satisfied?" I make eye contact with Pennywise and hold it.


Hmm, another fellow with a hat like mine ... maybe this is the part where the man in the hat kills the other man in the hat ... best not to be a man in a hat, then.

I stand up as well, tossing my hat on the back of my chair as I do so. I hold the top of my bow loosely in my left hand, allowing the butt to rest on the floor. Without the hat, my hair flows freely past my shoulders and the tips of my ears are visible. If someone wants a fight, best to oblige them.

Quitely to Lucienne, "Mark th' new fellow at the bar. I care not for his eyes - they talk too much."

Then louder directed to the man in the hat, "Ho stranger! Wouldst ye to join us? Come, there be plenty of chairs."

I motion to the chairs Lucienne and I just deserted. Well if it was a haunted chair this could be amusing ...


Male Human Sorcerer 3

The man in the hat holds himself like a pro, he looks relaxed, but he can spring into action in a moment. And the woman is either very self-confidant, or very niave, to act so casual in this room. Tho they both seem a little on edge as well, wonder what's up?

They both stood at that point, them man doffing his hat as he stood, revealing the features of a shifter, the woman putting away her book. But the way they casually held thier weapons told me more. They are either looking FOR a fight, or to avoid one. Wonder which one it is?

Kegi wrote:


Then louder directed to the man in the hat, "Ho stranger! Wouldst ye to join us? Come, there be plenty of chairs."

Hmph, looks like I'm about to find out. Never was smart enough to turn down an invitation.

I took a quick glance around to see how many others heads had raised at the invite. Aways good to know who in a room is paying attention. Shows you who to avoid later.

I nodded slightly in response, and took my so-called beer with me as I crossed the floor. I took another casual look around as I navigated a table. Just deliberate enough to let my new 'friends' know that if they had companions who would be 'joining' us, I would be aware of it.

"Don't see why not," I replied as I reached the table where the two were standing. "Not much else to do while we wait but talk, or throw away good money."


Akallabeth wrote:


"Don't see why not," I replied as I reached the table where the two were standing. "Not much else to do while we wait but talk, or throw away good money."

"I be fresh outta coin, so talk it be then." I give the stranger a crooked smile and absently spin my bow in my palm.

Handsome fellow up close, I'll give him that ... and tall, too. I'd think a chap of this stature could do well in some parts o' the city. I wonder why he is here ... and why my heritage seems of little surprise to him. What else does he know?

"The lady and me smell an evil stink about this place. What speak ye to that?"


For Romulus

Spoiler:
" Truthfully i could care less for you appearance, but by no means do this mean you are out of the running, please restore the bandages if you please. "

The Gnome standing walking quitely so as not the disturb the cake, brings out a sack of kittens, tossings them with a grimmace and a cat scream and snarl towards the back of the kitchen.

producing a Plantinum piece, and twirling it between his fingers he says " tis yours if you do your worst to those kittens " The Light in the room seems to darken noticbly. " While the magic is impressive, I need more of demonstration to understand your power "

As you are considering this, he also remarks " Have you considered a mask? Not to pry but I have seen simular burn victums gain a measure of decorum with an animated mask. No need to graft or anything , I could connect you to a skilled artificer if your interested, or I could even hire her for you if your hired" he adds with a conspiratorial wink.

Everyone Else, The Nature of the grumbling and the general mood of the room is getting increasingly loud and sour resectively. You see several people either reaching for missing purses or startled that someone elses coin purse is in their pocket.


Male Human Sorcerer 3

Up close I had to admit that the wiry fellow was the cleanest-cut shifter I'd ever seen. And the lady seemed more middle-class than desperate too. I wondered what thier respective stories were.

Kegi wrote:
"The lady and me smell an evil stink about this place. What speak ye to that?"

Needless to say I thought this was one of the more unusual ways I'd ever heard a conversation started. Then I noticed the increasing volume of the grumbles around us. And even I can add 2 and 2.

With a turn of my mouth that was not, quite, a smirk, I deliberately took a long, slow sniff.
"Well, Neighbor," I addressed the shifter. "My senses are not as keen as yours. But I do smell something. Tho I think tis more likely to be a rat than a genuine source of evil."
"Believe me," I muttered, not intending them to overhear, "That I would recognise."

I turned so my back was to most of the room. Not my smartest move, but I didn't want to startle any more people than I had too. I hope Mr. Furry here isn't too jumpy. Be just my luck to scare off the most amiable looking couple in the room before we've even introduced ourselves

I looked at the shifter as I raised my hands. "Careful, my my powers tend to be little,...hot. I don't want to singe ya'. Either of you, " I added, nodding at the lady.

"Paeraes Tandros," I murmured in Elvish. And a ball of flame appeared in my hand. after a moment it faded, but i could feel its power burning in my eyes. I had been told the effect actually added to my 'otherworldly good looks'.
Lucky me.

"Now let's see what we can see." I said aloud as I turned to examine the area of the room where the most commotion seemed to be coming from. "By the way," I added as I felt the burning power in my eyes increase, "the names Akallabeth."

I cast Detect Magic. And search the area of the room with the most commotion in it for what I can find.

For those who speak elvish-

Spoiler:

Paeraes Tandros= Detect Magic
Akallabeth='The Dark One' or 'Dark Wanderer'


For Logos

Spoiler:

I consider Pennywise's proposal as I replace the bandages about my face. "Are you sure you wish to see me do my worst? My worst could torch this entire kitchen. What with all the inflammables in here...."

I let that sink in before I continuing, "But if you have no qualms about being burned to a crisp, then I have no problem giving you a demonstration. You see... to survive, I have done many things that most people consider disturbing, to say the least, and annihilating these kittens will not be an obstacle to me. And if I burn with you in the resulting inferno, then I guess I don't have to worry about tomorrow. You, on the other hand, have a lot to lose. I wonder if you are prepared to say goodbye to all that you hold dear." I hold the gnome's gaze, "How would you like the kittens, rare, medium or extra crispy?"

I gather the winds of magic and compressing them into a ball subservient to my will and a faint orange aura begin to surround the fingertips of my right hand....

I use ongoing prestidigitation effect to create the orange aura

"If you have any gods you wish to pray to before we do this, now is the time to do so."

I again use prestidigitation to change the color of the aura around my fingertips to blue white, suggesting the increase in power of the magic I was bringing to bear

"Fire is the great equalizer. Rich, poor, male, female, young, old, human, elf, orc, gnome, halfling, they all smell the same once the fats cooks off their flesh."


Female She believes herself to be an Aasimar Archivist 3
Akallabeth wrote:


"Well, Neighbor," I addressed the shifter. "My senses are not as keen as yours. But I do smell something. Tho I think tis more likely to be a rat than a genuine source of evil."

"Now let's see what we can see." I said aloud as I turned to examine the area of the room where the most commotion seemed to be coming from. "By the way," I added as I felt the burning power in my eyes increase, "the names Akallabeth."

Lucienne keeps her eyes on the room. Quietly, then, for both men: "Well met, Dark One. Please, call me Lucienne. Whether we have a rat who simply wants to knock out the competition, or something more sinister, we have a roomful of violent people who do not know what's going on. Should we calm these folk down, or leave this place to find mischief of our own, or just wait for the place to erupt and plan to be the last ones standing when the dust settles?"

Lucienne is pretty certain that someone's using cantrips here. She's looking around the room, trying to discern who's concentrating on maintaining those effects.


for Romulus

Spoiler:
Good show old chap, and don't worry about the kitchen, your not the only one with a spell up the sleeve!" Seeming quite impressed with his find, Grey shows you to the door, calling the next name "Bueno Excellante if you please"

The Slim Lady who has been calling names, calls out "Bueno Bueno Excellant?"

Detect magic shows the heavy presence of illusion and transumation magic, concentrating further you almost can descern small (Child sized) humanoid shapes milling about, althought if it is invisability or something else you don't know.

Lucienne spots no one casting spells, or attempting to hide the fact that they are.

Logos


For Logos

Spoiler:

"Pennywise, tis a good thing you decided against "toasted kittens," I don't work for people who view life with such callous disregard. This was as much an interview for you and the people you work for, as it was for me."

After exiting the interview room, I proceed to my place among the shadows. I continue my study of my fellow applicants.


Akallabeth wrote:

"By the way," I added as I felt the burning power in my eyes increase, "the names Akallabeth."

"I am Kegi. Be ye a wizard, then? Th' fire is clever, but this place is built of stone. Y'll need more fire than that ta burn it down."

Though a good fire might go along way towards removing the stench.

I then turn to Lucienne slightly.

"The score be twenty to us three, and those be the ones we can see. I see little worth fightin' for.

"Hark, the cripple emerges, shall we try to even the odds and perchance learn somewhat of our host?"


Female She believes herself to be an Aasimar Archivist 3
Kegi wrote:


"I am Kegi. Be ye a wizard, then? Th' fire is clever, but this place is built of stone. Y'll need more fire than that ta burn it down."

"The score be twenty to us three, and those be the ones we can see. I see little worth fightin' for.

"Hark, the cripple emerges, shall we try to even the odds and perchance learn somewhat of our host?"

Lucienne, trying to give Akallabeth some breathing room: "Darkfellow fired up his vision, the better to see what's causing the hauntings. And yes, I think we could use some information about our erstwhile patron's attitudes."

She turns and holds up her empty hand, trying to catch Romulus' eye from across the room.


Male Human Sorcerer 3
Kegi wrote:


"I am Kegi. Be ye a wizard, then? Th' fire is clever, but this place is built of stone. Y'll need more fire than that ta burn it down."

Though a good fire might go along way towards removing the stench.

I then turn to Lucienne slightly.

"The score be twenty to us three, and those be the ones we can see. I see little worth fightin' for.

"Hark, the cripple emerges, shall we try to even the odds and perchance learn somewhat of our host?"

"Well met, Lucienne, Kegi." I replied while struggling to focus powers I was still getting used to.

"A wizard? I used to be." Was all I cared to comment on that subject.

After a few more straining seconds, I let the minor enchantment drop.
Blinking, I returned my gaze to my new acquaintances.

"There are definitely many minor enchantments active in this room." I offered by way of explanation. "Probably mere Prestidigitations mostly. Tho I cannot tell if the others be Small folk using invisibility, or mere Unseen Servants."

Looking around the room again, I noted the types of activity that was causing the unrest. And also made note of the apparent calmness of the people at the desk in a room so obviously climbing in tension.

"If I didn't know better," I murmured lower as the fellow with the outfit similar to my own and wrapped in bandages exited from the door behind the desk, "I would almost say this was a,...test?"
But if so, Then what are they looking for? And HOW do I pass it?

I agreed with the other two about speaking with the man who had just re-entered the room. While looking to see who answered to the unusual name they had just called.
"Yes, I for one would like to know who, or what, is behind the add, and what he wants."


I notice the woman beckoning me from across the room. What the hell I have nothing better to do. So, I walked up to her, where she is talking with two other persons.

Addressing the woman and her companions, "I couldn't help but notice you from the other side of the room. I gather you already know my name. But for those who arrived late in the game, I'm called Romulus. Please tell me how I may call you."


Male Human Sorcerer 3
Romulus wrote:

I notice the woman beckoning me from across the room. What the hell I have nothing better to do. So, I walked up to her, where she is talking with two other persons.

Addressing the woman and her companions, "I couldn't help but notice you from the other side of the room. I gather you already know my name. But for those who arrived late in the game, I'm called Romulus. Please tell me how I may call you."

I Nodded and touched the brim of my hat in salute.

"I'm called Akallabeth," I introduced myself. "Kegi, Lucienne." I continued, motioning at the others. "Pleasure."
"So," I continued, leaning back against the edge of the table, keeping a wary eye on the development of the tension in the room. "How did your interview go? We were wondering what you could you tell us of our erstwhile host?"

Akallabeth is hoping to spot whatever or whoever is causing the trouble. Or at least Hoping to be able to head off any serious trouble before it gets out of hand. After all, a true free-for-all brawl would probably end whatever possibility he might have of getting hired today. And any delay in getting his first (possible) paycheck is not a good thing!


"Pleased to meet you," I offer my bandaged right hand in a gesture of peace.

I continue, "Wouldn't want to spoil our host's surprise...but this much I can tell you. My interview was ok. As you can see, I'm still, more or less, in one piece. As to the other matter, our host is tough and wants tough people on the job, so if you're not prepared to do what is necessary then this job's not for you." I pause to let that sink in and I stare into their eyes.

"By the way, what's been going on? Everyone's edgy. Spooked more like."


Female She believes herself to be an Aasimar Archivist 3

Lucienne is keeping her eyes on the room at large. She indicates to whom she's speaking by the tilt of her head, rather than eye-contact.

To Romulus: "Minor magical mischief: coins are vanishing from one person's purse and apprearing in another's; I was, ah, pinched. And Akallabeth says he sees several small invisible mischief-makers in the room."

Then, turning to the group: "I'm not convinced this chaos is our host's doing; it works against what we believe his intentions are. But I haven't noticed anyone visibly in the room who seems likely to be the instigator, either.

"Good gentles, we should either annouce what we know to the room at large, directing everyone's hostilities to their proper targets, or else we should leave promptly.

Turning back to Romulus: "You've had a good interview. Walking out is most perilous for you. What say ye, men?"


Male Human Sorcerer 3
Lucienne wrote:

Lucienne is keeping her eyes on the room at large. She indicates to whom she's speaking by the tilt of her head, rather than eye-contact.

To Romulus: "Minor magical mischief: coins are vanishing from one person's purse and apprearing in another's; I was, ah, pinched. And Akallabeth says he sees several small invisible mischief-makers in the room."

Then, turning to the group: "I'm not convinced this chaos is our host's doing; it works against what we believe his intentions are. But I haven't noticed anyone visibly in the room who seems likely to be the instigator, either.

"Good gentles, we should either annouce what we know to the room at large, directing everyone's hostilities to their proper targets, or else we should leave promptly.

Turning back to Romulus: "You've had a good interview. Walking out is most perilous for you. What say ye, men?"

Before I take an action, (posted (spoiler) below),...

What can I tell by the behavior of the people operating the establishment?
The people behind the desk? The bartender? Are they getting as nervous as the others? Or are they calm, and observing the reactions? In case this will take a roll,...
Rolled a 17+3=20 This can be either Spot or Search, they are both at +3.

"I stand by my previous statement," I interject calmly, despite my actual trepidation. "I think this might be part of the interview. A test, if you will. And how we handle it may be as important as the actual interview."
"Then again," I drawl more slowly, my tired brain finally picking up what may have been the missing puzzle piece, "IF this is a test, 'passing' it may be as simple as trying to figure out what is going on,..."
I look at each of my new acquaintances in turn, "I think the children may have the best solution to this little dilemma," I continued, giving them my best canary-eating grin. "I say we go tell teacher!"

IF my search/spot check confirms my theory, (If either the 'secretary' or barkeep are calm and observant,) and IF there are no objections from my new pals,... I will do the following action. If the staff are as nervous as the rest of the room, ignore the spoiler. (All someone has to do is stop me as I start to walk.)

Spoiler:

Taking my 'companions' looks as agreement, I placed what was left of my now-warm and truly horrid beer down on the table, and strode calmly but purposefully toward the front desk.
"Excuse me," I said to get the person's attention. "But a few of us have noticed that many of the petitioners seem to be getting edgy. And we wondered if you knew that there are currently several active minor enchantments in place that seem to be serving no purpose other than to annoy those in the room? Perhaps you might suggest to the management that they find someone to dispel what is causing the problems before tempers get out of hand?" Then I added, having been well-trained to never miss an opportunity, "Unless the management would like to hire my, our services to take care of the problem for them?" And I gave her my best canary-eating grin while throwing a wink to my companions when I turned to indicate them.
Hm, should ha' thought of splitting the take BEFORE I made the offer. Ah well, offers made, and a split fee is bettern' NO fee."


Addressing Akallabet, "Up to you what you wish to do. Just keep in mind that this is an interview... an audition if you will...for a job that requires 'Able Men and Women Wanted for Precipitous Tasks involving the Security of Sharn.'"

Waving my hand at the room, "This being a set-up has crossed my mind. But assumptions are not enough. Remember you need to impress our host."


Akallabeth wrote:


I look at each of my new acquaintances in turn, "I think the children may have the best solution to this little dilemma," I continued, giving them my best canary-eating grin. "I say we go tell teacher!"

What the Five, this could be fun.

Keeping my bow at the ready, I follow Akallabeth, staying a few paces behind him so that I'm about midway between where he is and where Lucienne is. As we walk, I look from side to side trying to spot anyone who is better armed or armored than the average Rupert.

Course I can't kill what I can't see, so I'd better find me a target here ... suppose any of these would do ... but some may be better than others.


I hang back and position myself in the shadows as Kegi and Akallabeth approach the staff. This could be interesting.


Female She believes herself to be an Aasimar Archivist 3

Lucienne will position herself near Romulus, in front of him but to the side, intending to give him an unimpeded view of the room, but more shadows and some actual cover.

She readies Protection from Evil in case a fight erupts.


The Lady Behind the Desk looks up at you with a dreamy look on her face;

" What Oh Er Hmmm, What happening, Where am I, oh yes the Oaks, Dinner should be here soon, just wait for us to call your name sir. Thank you."

Everyone watches in Bemusement as several of the Annoyed patrons are looking antogonized by a handful of the patrons who have started ball room dancing. .Not a jig or a reel, but two Hide Armoured men dancing a very well done waltz, and then another two join theem, and another two... The Jeering and such give way as a merry almost spiteful tune starts up out of no where.

Thiel will gain an Action Point if he starts dancing a High Soceity Dance with Someone.

Suddenly several of the younger men, many with full beards start singing in a lingering soft tone.

" Who can say weree the road goes...
Where the Day Flows...
...Only Time

Who can say whyy your heart sighs.... "
(and so on, and yes someone is playing enya)


Male Human Sorcerer 3

Grrr! I spent over an hour typing a post that was all dramatic and over-the-top to remove the tension in the room before it got ugly, then my post got eaten. Then I notice that 5 minutes after I started typing, you posted the latest, which would have changed it all anyway! (Sigh) Ah, The joys of being a 2-finger typist!

"Well, that was a waste of a brilliant idea." I said to the growing group as I rejoined them around our table. "I had another thought for getting rid of the tension on the room, but someone seems to have beaten us to it."

"Hmmm. Otto's Irresistable Dance? Surely not. Why go to all the trouble?"

At work now, (yes, on Sunday), will post again later.


Female She believes herself to be an Aasimar Archivist 3

Not moving, calling out over the bizarre display, "Darkling, can you still see the magic patterns in the room?"


Male Human Sorcerer 3
Lucienne wrote:
Not moving, calling out over the bizarre display, "Darkling, can you still see the magic patterns in the room?"

I glanced quickly over towards her. She was quick this one. I had noticed earlier that she had picked up on the fact that my chosen name was Elvish. And she even got the basic translation right. I wondered again where her particular talents lied, and what she was doing looking for work here.

"Yeah, but I'll have to cast it again. It's a minor magic, and doesn't last long. Cover me." I reluctantly turned my back on the ever-increasing display of weirdness in the room, and once more summoned the power, which brought the flames to my hand, and again transferred it to my eyes.

Blinking at the burning sensation, I turned my attention again to the center of the room, looking not only for active enchantments, but for whoever, or WHATever, might be causing them. I had learned long ago that humanoids were not the only creatures that liked to play with magic. And this smacked of stories I had heard of michevious fey, or something similar.

"I don't suppose you happen to have some means of dispelling active enchantments handy, do you?" I asked as I concentrated my vision, picking out the tell-tale glows of active mystic auras.

OK, one more use of Detect Magic Cantrip.
I don't usually like Invis castle too much, But I do this time! Nat 20 +3 =23 for spot/search bay-bay! As stated I am looking not only for the active charms I already know are there, but for their source.


What's happening here is truly strange...can this entire scene be real? The behavior of the people here are truly out of character, especially those men dancing together and the choir. This is not a high society soiree. Tis a bar for adventurers... can their food and drink have anything to do wit their strange behavior? Don't know if Lucienne, Kegi and Akallabeth have drunk or eaten anything from this place either. This needs further investigation. Aside from behavior, what other things are out of place? Check their clothes and their speech. When you can't trust your eyes, other senses must be used.

For Logos

Spoiler:
I cast detect magic... I'm specifically looking for enchantment and illusion auras, if any, and the place where these are emanating


Female She believes herself to be an Aasimar Archivist 3
Akallabeth wrote:

"I don't suppose you happen to have some means of dispelling active enchantments handy, do you?" I asked as I concentrated my vision, picking out the tell-tale glows of active mystic auras.

"Hah. I've begun those studies, my friend, but these days I counterspell with a sharp blow under the caster's chin with a spiked ball."

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