022. "How have we managed that, Sir Dragon?"

[Corwin]

[20:34] <Ko-brb> ---
[20:38] <Ko-brb> A few weeks pass, things small and medium happening during that time. The first of June passes, the summer in full blossom now. The days are long, shadows stretching out in sun drenched afternoons. The water in the bay keeps the weather cool and crisp, the worst of the heat washed away by salt tinged breezes. On this day, however, Commander Oberuth summons the trio into a meeting room - a freshly repaired one, old stones and new stones clashi
[20:39] <Ko-brb> clashing in the wall. (More)
[20:43] <Ko-brb> As everyone sits down, "As you know, Lord Salman will reach town in a few days. In a related matter, as a contingent of troops has gone to meet his caravan to form an honor guard, we're short of men again. Especially commanding officers." He looks to each of them in turn, "In short, I'd like for you to manage and run the city patrols and guards today."
[20:44] <Demedais> "Certainly, sir." Demedais nods willingly.
[20:44] <Seira> "Of course, Sir!" Seira responds quickly.
[20:44] * Shamal looks a little bit surprised. Despite her advanced rank, she hasn't really been given any command responsibilities ever since she was a cadet... but the 'can do' attitude of her comrades inspires her! "Happy to, sir," she smiles cheerfully.
[20:47] <Ko-brb> "Good." Taking a moment to lean back in his chair, "The experience will do you good. If you're rising up like this, a command, even a city one, will be a valuable experience. Go to the guard garrison, the maps, routes and duties are all there."
[20:48] * Seira salutes, and leaves as ordered, waiting for the others outside the meeting room.
[20:48] <Shamal> "On it, sir," Shamal snaps off one of her customary lackadaisical salutes and follows Seira out.
[20:49] <Demedais> "Alright, sir." Demedais follows the other two.
[20:49] <Ko-brb> "Good. Seira's been there before, so..." Commander Oberuth notes as you all file out.
[20:50] * Seira is all too happy to lead the way.
[20:52] <Ko-brb> The party heads to the guard garrison. It's really just one of the buildings here, flat and long. In here is a large rooms, maps of the city and surrounding areas plastered on the walls. A large table on the center holds a duty roster, and the back leads to an office. However, this way is barred, as about two dozen guardsmen are lined up against the rear wall, waiting. Most eye you, but most also don't quite come to attention right off. (more
[20:53] <Ko-brb> One of note does - Biggs is there. His uniform is clean, hair trimmed and fitting easily under his helmet now. He even salutes, albiet with a smile at Shamal.
[20:54] * Seira returns the salute. "Hello again...." She pauses, observing his uniform for insignia.
[20:54] <Ko-brb> Seira notes he's still a private, but at least a clean and well kept one.
[20:55] <Seira> "--Private Biggs," she smoothly continues.
[20:55] <Shamal> "Come on, men, let's see a little more alertness this morning," Shamal encourages the far too at ease guardsmen as she marches towards the duty roster, putting herself at stiff attention as an example for them.
[20:56] * Seira seeks out the captain of the guard first thing.
[20:56] <Ko-brb> "Hello, S-Captain Seira," he finishes, pleasant. The guard next to him glances at him from out of the corner of the eye, but Shamal's words get a lot more attention. They slowly do so, as Seira notes that she doesn't see him around.
[20:56] * Demedais nods gravely at all the men, eyeing them almost cruelly as he follows the two.
[20:57] <Seira> "Where is the captain in charge?" she asks aloud, observing the men.
[20:57] <Ko-brb> The duty roster notes that there are nine routes today, each needing 2-3 men, as well as a special detail around noon for a projected ship arrival.
[20:57] <Shamal> "That would be us, Seira," Shamal says, raising an eyebrow. "At ease, men," she adds with an approving smile for the group.
[20:58] <Ko-brb> "He's with the honor guard going to see Lord Salman," Biggs quickly agrees. "That's why you're he-ah." Smiling to Shamal just  amoment, Biggs and the rest of the men go at ease.
[20:58] <Seira> "We would have to relieve someone of his duties, first," she responds.
[20:58] * Demedais eyes the routes, then quickly counts the men present.
[20:59] * Seira frowns. "Then these men had been left without a commanding officer," she mutters, eyes narrowing. Seira shakes her head. "Very well. Shamal, Demedais, I would like to take a group to greet the naval vessel."
[21:01] <Shamal> "By all means, Seira," Shamal allows, taking a quick look over the duty roster before assigning the men to their patrols, putting the pairs around the richer part of town while the groups of three tend to the routes through the east side and near the docks. "Any questions?" she primly asks the assembled men.
[21:02] * Seira seeks out a pair of soldiers she if familiar with from the assignments Shamal had put up, commandeering them for her task.
[21:03] <Demedais> "Alright." Demedais nods as he lets Shamal handle the groupings. "Should one of us stay here to handle problems as the come, while the other assists Seira?
[21:04] <Seira> "I require no assistance, though you are welcome to join me," Seira responds. "There is also the option of going on a patrol."
[21:04] <Shamal> "I will remain here to coordinate if any problems arise during the day," Shamal nods, shuffling her papers busily.
[21:05] <Seira> "In the unlikely case of an emergency, I will send for our reserve," Seira tells her, nodding as well.
[21:05] <Demedais> "Alright." Demedais examines the wall and papers again. "I'll assist you with the ship. The patrols look well set for now. Go ahead and fetch me if needed, Shamal."
[21:06] <Shamal> "I'll send a runner to the docks if necessary," the blonde nods, giving the men a final look over. "Well, if there are no further questions, you all have your assignments. Dismissed."
[21:06] * Ko-brb is now known as Kotono
[21:07] <Kotono> The guards salute, mostly obeying. OOC - Deme and Seira taking a few guardsa nd shipping, while Shamal stays here?
[21:08] * Seira observes her men, making sure their uniform is without visible flaws, and after fixing her own leads the way.
[21:08] <Demedais> OOC: Yes, pretty much.
[21:10] <Kotono> Seira and Demedais lead Privates Dirk and Smoot along. Smoot has a shaggy brown stubble to his face, looking like he hasn't shaved, and a few scars. The other is more normal, still well in his younger years.
[21:15] <Kotono> So on you go. You get to the docks with plenty of time to kill and spare, another busy day there. Ships are coming in, and you note that a few offical looking men are inspecting the west side end of the harbor, including any walls, talking amid themselves. Past that, it's the normal bustle of cargo and movement, vital.
[21:16] * Seira takes the time to review the information that was available on the ship and its manifest, throwing dirty looks at Smoot's stubble.
[21:18] * Demedais nods at Dirk and Smoot both, glancing at Smoot's beard in general. "I don't have any objection to you not shaving, but you may desire to keep it trim." he notes. He then glances over to the official men. "I'll come over when the ship comes in, Seira. For now, I'll be over near those docks, keeping a general eye out." Demedais tells Seira.
[21:18] <Kotono> Smoot stays quiet, occasionally murmuring something to Dirk. They're alert and at attention, as Seira reviews the manifest. It looks like it'sa  well placed trader from the Desert Fiefdoms - he sent ahead word that he wished for this.
[21:18] <Kotono> His actual cargo is some silk, some spice, some stone and a few odds and ends like glass.
[21:19] * Seira makes sure that her cloak is impeccable, looking new and red and bright, and takes a moment to adjust her signet ring and sheathed elven blade.
[21:20] <Kotono> Smoot merely stiffens a bit, his eyes rolling visibly. "Yes sir," he allows. Meanwhile, Demedais goes and looks! OOC - Doing anything in particular or just keeping an eye out, Deme?
[21:20] * Demedais nods, presuming Seira heard him, and moves over toward the official looking men, staying far enough away to not attract suspicion but close enough to hear, he hopes. While doing so, he keeps an eye out for anything suspicious.
[21:21] <Demedais> OOC: There. <_<;
[21:22] <Kotono> OOC - Listening check, I reckon.
[21:22] <Demedais> roll 1d20+1
[21:22] * Kotono sets mode: +v Reiko-chan
[21:22] <Demedais> roll 1d20+1
[21:22] <Reiko-chan> 1,0Demedais rolled :1,0 1d20+1 --> 1,0[ 1d20=16 ]12,0{17}
[21:23] <Kotono> While Seira waits and makes sure she's just fabolous for the soon coming ship, Demedais listens! It's not so hard here, the voices simple enough to hear and not hidden in the least. "...and if we knock that wall down, we can expand it out..." one says, the other scribbling some sort of drawing.
[21:24] * Demedais nods in approval. Expansion, it sounds like. Always a good thing... Demedais keeps an eye out for any trouble in general from here, waiting for the ship.
[21:25] <Kotono> roll 1d20
[21:25] <Reiko-chan> 1,0Kotono rolled :1,0 1d20 --> 1,0[ 1d20=12 ]12,0{12}
[21:26] <Kotono> As Demedais and Seira wait, they begin to hear something. It comes from a good distance away, from a sea themed pub off the main docks. It's a special, caring sound, the sort of sound that is only made by a wooden chair breaking apart as it's slammed into something. The sort of sound that gets anyone passing nearby to either scurry and peek in or hustle and move along.
[21:27] <Seira> "Stay here, and call us if the ship approaches," Seira instructs the privates before nodding at Demedais, and making way for the pub at a jog.
[21:28] * Demedais begins to walk toward where he believes the sound coming from, one hand on his sword hilt.
[21:30] <Kotono> Seira has better position and jogs, so she reaches first. Really, one would have to be deaf to miss this sound - glass breaking from inside as she arrives! Inside, a few men punch, a shattered bottle in one's hand. "BASTARD!" the burly man in a sailor's dirty clothes roars, "CHEATER!" Another man is down, with shattered glass over his back. A third is wobbling, his nose leaking blood. "REGRAN THE RED WON'T BE CHEATED!"
[21:30] <Kotono> The few other patrons at this hour all look like sailors and are watching, af ew cheering.
[21:31] <Seira> "Cease this at once, in the name of the Guard!" Seira announces, as her left hand glows with arcane energy menacingly!
[21:32] <Seira> The drunks only get one chance at this, she muses to herself. Should they not heed her words, her magic would ensure the visit by foreign dignitaries would pass smoothly!
[21:33] <Kotono> OOC - Mmm. Intimadation check to see how you affect them, since they're rowdy as hell. +2 circumstancial for flashing and glowly lights, that was a good touch.
[21:33] * Demedais runs to catch up to her, sword now drawn!
[21:34] <Seira> roll 1d20+8 genuflect or die!
[21:34] <Reiko-chan> 1,0Seira rolled :1,0 1d20+8 1,0genuflect or die! --> 1,0[ 1d20=6 ]12,0{14}
[21:37] <Kotono> The downed one isn't doing much, being down and probably in a lot of pain. The bloodied one looks on, stepping back and away. But the rowdy one stares, before spitting in Seira's general direction and charging the downed man, broken bottle raised up!
[21:37] <Seira> The energy is released, as Seira's face freezes solid!
[21:37] <Kotono> OOC - What spell?
[21:38] <Kotono> roll 1d20
[21:38] <Reiko-chan> 1,0Kotono rolled :1,0 1d20 --> 1,0[ 1d20=17 ]12,0{17}
[21:38] <Seira> OOC: Hideous Laughter, DC 18
[21:38] <Seira> "Genuflect!" she commands in an icy tone, pointing her arm at the rowdy man.
[21:40] <Kotono> He is about to strike down, when he stops. He stops and begins to laugh, uproarous humor shakin ghim! Demedais rushes along as this happens, the belligerant starting to howl in humor!
[21:40] <Kotono> "...shit..." the bloodied man stares at Seira, gulping, "C-crimson guard?"
[21:41] <Kotono> The uninvolved patrons quickly look at Seira and Demedais, cheering stopped hard. Instead, they go quiet, looknig mainly at their own drinks.
[21:41] * Seira stares him down coldly. "Reflect on your actions in jail, miscreant," she spits at the magically-affected man, before glaring at the others involved. "Will you come down peacefully, or do I need to get serious?"
[21:42] <Kotono> The bloodied one quickly throws his hands up, "I ain't no fool," he says, staring and shivering like a sick baby. "I heard not even ghouls scare you."
[21:42] * Demedais looks in, stepping past Seira and at the laughing man. "I thought you said genuflect, not laugh insanely." Demedais notes evenly as he glances at the bloody man, attempting to determine if the injuries are life-threatening.
[21:42] <Kotono> The downed mand doesn't really do much, downed.
[21:42] <Kotono> Demedais thinks he probably has just a nosebleed from a punch or the like.
[21:44] * Demedais nods, looking to see the position of the objects in the room. What glass was broken, which tables got turned over, etcetera.
[21:44] <Seira> "Details. Demedais, would you put him to sleep, or should I?"
[21:44] <Kotono> No tables are knocked over, but a little away a wooden barstool is shattered. Broken glass litters the downed man's back. Not too much wreckage, doesn't look like it spread out that much.
[21:46] <Demedais> "No need for either." Demedais says as he pulls out his manacles and grabs the man's hands, locking them behind his back before going to the downed man.
[21:47] <Kotono> As he's ensorcelled, doing so is simplistic. Meanwhile, you're getting stared at by everyone here, though those not invovled are just keeping quiet now.
[21:48] * Seira nods curtly. "You seem to have this firmly under control, then. The fool," she says, pointing at the laughing man, "refused to listen to my instructions and belligerantly obstructed justice. The other two... can I count on you to investigate this?"
[21:48] <Demedais> "How much time do we have, Seira?" Demedais asks as he examines the fallen man for critical injuries.
[21:49] <Seira> "Enough," she responds. "I shall dispatch for reserve troops to take them off your hands."
[21:49] <Kotono> The fallen man has a few cuts on his back, the glass luckily not having done muchd amage. He has a lump on the side of his head, though, and it out cold.
[21:49] <Demedais> "Very well. Call for the reserve troops, I'll handle things here." Demedais nods.
[21:50] * Seira quickly withdraws some ink and a piece of parchment from her supplies, and drafts a quick note for Shamal before signing it, and saying out loud, "I need a volunteer to deliver this to the Guard."
[21:51] <Kotono> There's a lot of murmurings and mutterings at that, but one sailor finally stands up, adjusting his eyepatch. "Aye, why not?"
[21:52] * Demedais nods at the man. "Greatly appreciated, sir."
[21:52] <Seira> "Thank you for your service," she tells the man, rewarding him with a silver piece for his troubles, and heads back to her little welcoming committee after handing over the parchment.
[21:53] * Demedais stands up and looks at the barkeep. "Apologies for the burden, but may I request seperate rooms to hold these three in until the assistance arrives?" he asks, aware of Seira leaving.
[21:54] <Kotono> He takes it and hurries off, deed done. The barkeep just shakes his head, a plain man sighing as he looks at his bar. "In the back."
[21:56] * Demedais nods. "Thank you." he says as he leads the three men there, making sure each is in a seperate room, then returns to the barkeep, one eye toward the rooms. "Could you tell me precisely how this affair started?"
[21:58] <Kotono> "They were arguing about a bet and one thing quickly lead to another." Muttering under his breath, tired, "I should know better than to open early, since the only ones here are freshly ashore sailors who want to get drunk."
[21:59] <Demedais> "I'll make sure you get refinanced for this, one way or another. I take it the rowdy man started the bet?" Then, to the sailors, "Does anyone know what ship those three came in on?"
[22:01] <Kotono> A nod as he listens, "I can check if ou want," he offers. "I know most of them welle nough."
[22:02] <Demedais> "It'd be appreciated. The man whom I handcuffed is the primary one I'm interested in - as I take it the other two struck no blows?"
[22:06] <Kotono> "No, they argued but the didn't fight." So he wipes his hands on a dirty rag on the barcounter, people starting to quietly slip out now that the fighting is over.
[22:07] <Demedais> "Alright. Greatly appreciated, sir. When the soldiers come, please direct them to the back." Demedais nods as he goes to make sure the loud one didn't get out of his room and start kicking the other two.
[22:10] <Kotono> He hasn't, they're subdued for the moment. THe loud one looks confused if anything.
[22:12] * Demedais nods and leans back against the wall, waiting. He'd just let the guard question the loud one, and make sure the two others have their information obtained if they need to be asked any questions other than the usual.
[22:17] <Kotono> Soon enough guards come, sent on for relief. They salute Demedais briefly, the three taken away.
[22:19] * Demedais catches up to the last guard. "Hold on a minute, sir." he says, having not caught the rank of the man.
[22:21] <Kotono> Private Hesta turns, a plain man with a twitchy eyebrow. "Sir?"
[22:23] <Demedais> "The one handcuffed is the primary suspect. All we need from the other two is their ship and captain's name. It sounds like all the rowdiness was caused by said man; Shamal should know what to do with him. Oh, and make sure she gets the handcuffs, please. I'd appreciate getting those back." Demedais says with a grin. "Thank you, Private."
[22:30] <Kotono> He nods and salutes after, "Yes sir." With that he gets to work, brawlers draggeda way. So Demedais and Seira return to the docks, waiting, but it's not too long. A heavy masted ship is slowly sailing into the harbor, white sails, fluttering int he wind.
[22:32] * Seira directs the privates to stand at attention with but a glance, and settles in to wait patiently.
[22:33] * Demedais stands a bit back from the three, waiting.

[Corwin]

[20:21] <Kokokokoko> Privates Smoot and Dirk stand at attention now, neither doing much besides looking offical. The ship slowly slides into dock, bare chested sailors with dark skin tossing ropes to the side, mooring the ship with expert speed. The sails are slowly brought down and in, furrowed away. As this all happens, a plank is extended out. (More)
[20:23] <Kokokokoko> The man here is skinny, almost skin and bones. His dusky skin barely conceals what of his body that is uncovered, which is very little. He wears a flowing white capethat reaches down to the floor, plain white layers of cotton cloth swabbing his body. A loose sash ties it all together around his waist. His face is still fairly young, even if sunweathered. Yet his hair us pure white, like fallen snow in a mountain ridge.
[20:24] <Seira> Standing near the plank with her escort, Seira salutes sharply, the action sending her cloak aflutter before it settles down graciously over her form once again. "On behalf of the Guard, let me welcome you to Balmuria, Sir," she announces.
[20:25] * Demedais salutes as well, keeping an eye on the man and the ship.
[20:27] <Kokokokoko> As he looks about, you notice his left eye has a haze of white over it, settling into a half liddedness, not moving like his right eye. His right eye is active, clear and brown, moving about.  He raises a hand, "I thank you for the welcome..." he begins...(More)
[20:27] <Kokokokoko> roll 1d20+7
[20:27] * Hatbot --> "Kokokokoko rolls 1d20+7 and gets 24."12 [1d20=17]
[20:27] <Kokokokoko> He looks to Demedais long, and then Seira. He hesitates, before, "Are you two of the Crimson Guard?"
[20:28] * Seira dips her head briefly. "Correct, Sir."
[20:29] <Demedais> "Indeed, sir." Demedais nods sharply.
[20:29] <Kokokokoko> He nods once more, quiet. His voice carries, but it's a crisp, quiet voice of a librarian. "I am honored. I've heard tales coming back with travellers in the past month."
[20:30] <Seira> "I have heard tales of the Fiefdoms myself, Sir," Seira returns evenly. "They sound like a nice place to visit. May my duties allow me the time, soon."
[20:31] * Demedais stands quietly, attempting to recall what he knows of the Fiefdoms.
[20:32] <Kokokokoko> OOC - Do you have any knowledges relevant? If so, note them now. If not, you can make a general knowledge check(Int check) on it since it's reasonable you'd know some.
[20:32] <Demedais> roll 1d20+1 general int check, unless Religion would come into play
[20:32] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+1 general int check, unless Religion would come into play and gets 16."12 [1d20=15]
[20:36] <Kokokokoko> "Mmm." He inclines his head slightly, a glint from his belt. A smooth dagger's hilt juts out from there, unobtrusive. "Would you lead me to the trading area, so that I may see it myself?"
[20:38] <Seira> "You wish to see our training methods, Sir?" Seira asks in an attempt to clarify his rather unusual request.
[20:39] <Kokokokoko> He pauses, good eye staring at Seira. "Trading area," he enunciates. "Where you buy and sell goods of trade value. I have many in my ship thatI wish to ply here."
[20:41] <Seira> "Certainly," she responds with a bow, and stretches out her right hand. "Please follow me, Sir. The best trading area in the city is located near the temple to Waukeen, and if you cannot find what you look for there, I will be more than happy to assist further."
[20:43] * Demedais stands back, unobtrusively following Seira's motions.
[20:45] <Kokokokoko> "..mmm." He begins to walk and follow Seira, as the privates salute and take up the rear guard. He looks about briefly, and once you get past the wood docks, "That is a lovely shield," he speaks to Demedais.
[20:46] <Demedais> "Thank you, sir." Demedais nods in reply solemnly.
[20:47] <Seira> "Is there anything in particular you are in the market for, Sir?" Seira asks.
[20:48] <Kokokokoko> "...it's surface sparkles and I see the color of gold." He goes on, even while looking ahead now. Amid the normal noise of the harbor his voice should be lost, but it possesses a strange cadence, keeping well into your hearing range despite it's softness. "If it is authentic, there are many who would wish to purchase such a strangely placed beauty."
[20:49] <Kokokokoko> He pauses after, "I am in the market for my own profit. There are manyp laces I wish to visit; the Temple of a goddess of trade I have heard of, and a shop that sells magic."
[20:50] * Seira nods. "Fine choices, Sir, if I might say so myself."
[20:51] <Demedais> "It is not for sale, I am afraid; in all technicality it belongs to the Crimson Guard. I am simply the current possessor." Demedais replied succinctly. "It is a grandiose thing, however; almost too gaudy for me." he adds, looking down at it almost irritatedly.
[20:52] <Kokokokoko> "It does not match your weapon, either," he observes, a casual murmuring. "Your city has great wealth if such a thing is in it's grasp."
[20:54] <Seira> "The mutual trading opportunities Balmuria offers to its neighbors are quite profitable, yes," Seira comments.
[20:54] <Demedais> "It was a long string of incidents that gave us this item." Demedais agrees. "The end result was the the Crimson Guard found it in their wanderings."
[20:55] <Kokokokoko> "Yes, trade is lifeblood, and this city may be an artery." He seems to ponder those words, before half turning his gaze to Demedais. "Aaah, I see. Yes, that does make sense. Few would give such a piece up willingly..."
[20:57] <Demedais> "Indeed." Demedais nods succinctly. "Shall we go to see the Temple first? I believe it is closer..."
[21:00] <Kokokokoko> His expression stays neutral the entire time. So you lead him to the Temple of Waukeen, a few fruit vendors on the way cleaning up a mess. This is of little note overall, as you reach the temple. Bustling today, a few Malmuthian traders in a long discussion with the head priest therein. It's at the very back and looks heated.  Otherwise, you see the normal trading hurrying along...
[21:01] <Kokokokoko> Your guest looks about. "Yes. This is the place," he agrees, "The smell of gold and silver and sweat still stays in the air here.
[21:01] <Kokokokoko> "
[21:02] * Demedais looks around, having not actually been to a temple of Waukeen before. "So... much business." Demedais murmurs...
[21:03] * Seira waits calmly, observing the captain inoffensively and waiting on his next move, ready to serve.
[21:05] <Kokokokoko> It is a wide hall, deep and long. A fountain burbles, an altar to Waukeen in the back where the head priest argues. Traders work about, acolytes of the religion scurrying about. INcluding one Mia, carrying what looks to be a large box of  goods into the back. Meanwhile, your guest nods once more, "Very well. Take me to the magic shop now?"
[21:07] <Seira> "Certainly," Seira agrees, inclining her head. "This way, Sir, if you will...?"
[21:11] <Kokokokoko> So the party goes on. In this way they go the back way up the hill, passing an inn shaped like a dragon's maw. Your guest eyes this a few moments, "...An interesting place," he allows, stopping. "Is this the magic shop?"
[21:13] <Demedais> "No. It's an inn belonging to one of the foremost guards, tour guides and explorers in the City." Demedais replies, a bit of a grin on his face.
[21:13] <Seira> "The shop is a bit further," Seira adds, pointing at the building, which is now within sight.
[21:14] <Kokokokoko> "An inn? Ooooh." Your guest eyes Seira, looking towards the magic shop and then back to Seira's interesting innkeep. "Perhaps I will stay a few days here. I have not seen such an original place in some time."
[21:15] * Seira nods at his words, leading on for the rest of the way.
[21:16] <Demedais> "It is indeed a comfortable building." Demedais nods, following Seira. "And unique."
[21:18] <Kokokokoko> "Mmm." HE considers this but says little more, heading along. Up to Countess Stronger's abode, business as usual. Inside you can spy Colonel Khardon, bantering lighting with Countess Stronger, the two in a long discussion as you enter inside..
[21:19] * Seira enters the shop first, nodding at each in greeting. "Countess, a customer for you from the Fiefdoms," she introduces the man, speaking formally.
[21:23] * Demedais waits for the man to enter in before stepping in behind him.
[21:25] <Kokokokoko> The conversation stops, Khardon wearing a casual grina s you enter. He steps aside, as your guest enters. He inclines his head, "I am Eliraj. I come to discuss matters of trading."
[21:25] <Kokokokoko> Countess Stronger smiles and returns his look with a warm one of his own, "The mysteries of the universe are here. Come and we'll see what you want," she invites in a silky voice, gesturing him forward. As she does, she nods a moment towards the guards, brief.
[21:27] * Seira dismisses the privates, instructing them to return to the garrison and join Shamal's reserve, before drifting closer to her charge, interested in Elle's newest purchases.
[21:32] <Kokokokoko> Dirk and Smoot take the chance and leisurely begin to walk back. Meanwhile, Seira settles in to creeping closer. "Hm?" Countess Stronger's voice carries, a casual glance back at Seira. "Yes, I'm familiar with such."
[21:40] <Kokokokoko> Eliraj barely nods, head moving only a fraction. "It's possible," he agrees quietly, "Potions as well. Resistance to heat are prized in our land. Anything to create water, for longer expiditions."
[21:42] <Kokokokoko> Countess Stronger ponders this and nods again, "I'll see what I can do," she smiles, taking him to the side and a seat. "If you would a few moments?"
[21:43] <Kokokokoko> Eliraj sits, as Stronger comes towards Seira and Demedais. "Know him," she asks quietly, curious. "Or is it official?"
[21:45] <Seira> "He requested our presence, and he certainly paid attention to the special shield," Seira responds likewise, her eyes darting to the Resort. "Out of curiousity, Elle, what is he in the market for?"
[21:49] <Kokokokoko> Eliraj clears his throat, barely making a sound. "I am in the market for potions, water creation and...interesting artifacts," he speaks, clearand precise, cutting any reply fof.
[21:51] * Seira smiles and approaches the table he is sitting at. "Why did you not say so, then?" she asks him curiously. "Things would have gone much faster, then. Balmuria is in possession of some interesting artifacts only the Guard has access to."
[21:54] <Kokokokoko> "Not to mention everything here, which has very competitive prices," Coutness Stronger smoothly steps in front of Seira, a small, delicate cough. "Very competitive!"
[21:55] * Seira nods in support. "Satisfied customer, here."
[21:57] * Demedais just leans back, watching the whole situation with a rather wide grin on his face.
[21:58] <Kokokokoko> Eliraj's face stays neutral, his one good eye on Stronger. "Yes then...we will see. Thank you," he nods to Seira and Demedais, "I believe my need of your services is done for now. I can find one of you at the inn we passed?
[21:59] <Demedais> "Yes, one of us will pretty much be on hand there if you need anything." Demedais replied smoothly. "Seira, should I notify them of this development?"
[22:00] <Seira> "That is a fairly safe bet," she agrees with a nod. "And we're actually occupying complimenting fields with either this excellent shop and the temple of Waukeen's market, so there is little reason to try and play us against each other for a better price." She glances at Demedais. "Alright. In that case, I'll report back."
[22:01] <Demedais> "Very well." Demedais nods as he proceeds back to the garrison, with a bow to Eliraj and Stronger.
[22:03] * Seira salutes the Colonel and her guest, nods at the Countess, and leaves herself.
[22:09] <Kokokokoko> OOC - Deme in #evil.
[22:11] <Kokokokoko> Seira returns to her inn. It's not too busy right now, being the middle of the day. There are people about, including Donald practicing in the back yard...
[22:12] * Seira informs the barkeep to come get her should a visitor from the Fiefdoms appears, and walks through to join Donald in the back yard.
[22:14] <Kokokokoko> He's swinging a plain greatsword about, grunting as he works. He's only wearing leather armor, sweating as he goes through the motions. He's lost in his exercise, intense.
[22:14] * Seira claps several times, perhaps in appreciation, making certain to stand somewhere he can't hit her by accident should his blade slip from his grip.
[22:16] <Kokokokoko> He brings his sword up and around, finishing by carefully bringing it down, letting it drop to the ground. "Yeah?" he asks, turning to look towards the half elf.
[22:19] <Seira> "Your training has certainly come along, young paladin," she says gravely.
[22:22] <Kokokokoko> With a grunt as he turns fully, "Yeah, I'm working on it," he allows, mulling that over as he goes to a bucket of water against the side of the inn, splashing it over his head. "When that bastard comes back..."
[22:23] * Seira twists her fingers in elaborate gestures, splashing some more cool water over his head. "I can see that," she agrees. "In fact, I've decided we should take your training to a new level... if you are ready for that."
[22:26] <Kokokokoko> Looking up after he's splashed with passing magical will, "What is it you want to do, then," he inquires plainly, eyeing Seira. "I'm suddenly getting chills..."
[22:27] <Seira> "A paladin must have leadership capabilities," Seira lectures, marching with determination in front of Donald, hands folded behind her back. "One of the best ways to prove one's worth to both peers and deity is to show exceptional skill in this area." She turns around, coming to look at him. "Why would men place their trust, their lives, the lives of their families in your hands? Why would a deity deign to support your cause? One must
[22:27] <Seira> prove themselves worthy first!"
[22:31] <Kokokokoko> Picking up his sword and slingling it over his shoulders, using it to delicately rest his head on, "So what do you have in mind? I don't see anyone to lead here? I'mnot in the...wait, are you telling me you're going to try to get me to join your country's military or town's guard?"
[22:32] <Seira> "There are several ways of achieving this, of course," Seira responds, nodding to herself. "Adventuring is one, of course. Such skills are inevitably gained the hard way. However, this would take time, and without a suitable role model, perhaps such a time would be too long and take you away from the very city you have been drawn towards to protect. I find that unacceptable on your behalf." She clicks her tongue in dissatisfaction. "An
[22:32] <Seira> other paladin taking you as an apprentice would certainly work, and allow you to stay here, yet you follow different divine directives... this is still an option for you, however, should you choose to take it." Seira smiles thinly. "The third option is indeed for you to partake of our officer training program. Though it is not wartime, certain processes can be sped up."
[22:34] <Kokokokoko> "Well, let's see. I can go adventure and try to learn. Sure, it might take awhile, but that is a problem right there. I suppose I could also study under...him...but I think I'll pass, thanks. Grr..." Muttering as he begins to pace, "Even if I'm stuck at this alone, I still have duties. I can't enlist in one group when I still have ties in another."
[22:35] <Seira> "How would your present ties be compromised?" she asks him.
[22:36] <Kokokokoko> "What if they need me? My God's call..even if I'm not cut of the same cloth as Demedais..." He mutters there, scowling. "Yeah, anyway. I follow my duty from my group and above, not the duty of others."
[22:38] <Seira> "I see," Seira says, nodding. "Very well. In that case, I might be able to offer a compromise. I could have you hired as a combat instructor for some of our green recruits. You would be one of our numerous civillian consultants, not required to join the Guard itself."
[22:39] <Kokokokoko> "...as long as I can leave if I need to?" he decides after just a moment, "Fine. After all...you need people capable of protecting in this city. That much's obvious. The ghouls ar eonly half of it, from what I hear," h e mentions, looking towards Seira.
[22:39] * Seira nods. "Our people will benefit, as will you. I like such a situation."
[22:43] <Kokokokoko> "Heh," Putting down his sword again, "That and I could use the money. My old sword's probably somewhere in Malmuth by now..." His scowl returns full force, "Dammit, and I liked that greatsword."
[22:44] <Seira> "Maybe you'll get a chance to get it back, if they grow too beligerent for their own good?" she offers, shrugging. "In any case, I will present the case before the Commander. I have full confidence that I will gain his approval on this matter."
[22:45] <Kokokokoko> "Yeah...thanks," he says after a moment, "You're not too bad, are you?" he says, then grins. "Even if I swear all of you will drag someone along like a dog dragging a chew toy along..."
[22:47] <Seira> "I'm the best," Seira says modestly.
[22:55] <Kokokokoko> Soon Seira returns to the front of the inn. As she watches a few customers drink, Demedais enters in. Donald, who is just heading towards a room, scowls and picks up his pace
[22:55] <Kokokokoko> ,'
[22:56] <Seira> "A drink?" she offers, raising an eyebrow. "Non-alcoholic, of course."
[22:56] * Demedais nods at Donald before moving over to Seira. "The high priest of Waukeen passes along the message that there is no matter that requires further investigation at the temple. And sure."
[22:57] <Seira> "What investigation at which temple, again?" she asks, confused and on alert at the same time.
[23:00] <Demedais> "Temple of Waukeen. We were sent there to handle a disturbance, the high priest had apparently already handled it, his robe was ripped and the Malmuth merchants we saw there earlier were leaving, disgruntled. It does not seem urgent, but seeing as how you're a member of that temple, I thought you would want to know."
[23:01] * Seira nods noncommittally, reaching for a glass and waving her hand over it absently to fill it up with chilled liquid. "I see. We will standby, then, waiting for our guest from the desert to show up."
[23:03] <Demedais> "I've been requested to head back to the garrison. I thought I would stop by and notify you first hand, however." Demedais takes the glass and slowly drains it. "Two days without water. I should stop doing that, even if my system doesn't need it."
[23:04] * Seira nods once more. "Give Shamal my regards."
[23:05] <Demedais> "Very well. Take care, Seira." he says as he leaves, heading back to the garrison.
[23:11] <Kokokokoko> A few hours pass. Seira has settled in, when at last Eliraj enters the inn. He is accompanied by a few bare chested sailors, lugging sacks along with them. He nods but barely to Seira, "What is the rate for a good room here?"
[23:12] * Seira lets the hired help handle this as she returns the nod, still seated at the bar and contemplating how she would present her idea to the Commander.
[23:15] <Kokokokoko> As they do and money changes hands, Eliraj looks about. It's a lazy sort of look, done in a few seconds, but repeated a few times over. "...what a unique place. Have you met a dragon before?"
[23:16] <Seira> "Always on the lookout," she tells him brightly.
[23:16] <Kokokokoko> "..mmmm," he murmurs, thoughtful. "...interesting." With that, he seems content to follow the hired help...
[23:17] <Seira> Once he is almost out of sight, Seira briefly casts a Detect Magic spell, observing him.
[23:17] <Kokokokoko> His clothing radiates moderate magic.
[23:17] <Seira> roll 1d20+12
[23:17] * Hatbot --> "Seira rolls 1d20+12 and gets 30."12 [1d20=18]
[23:21] <Kokokokoko> As Seira does so, she can begin to hear what sounds like loud screams coming from outside.
[23:22] <Seira> Grabbing her bow, she darts outside, still on duty! Curiousity can wait!
[23:24] <Kokokokoko> As Seira does, she is nearly defeaned by a great roar! It echos in the hills, like an earthquake made into sonic form! It's louder than anything she's ever heard, sending lesser people down to the ground in ear bleeding agony!
[23:24] <Seira> "How ominous," she mutters, recalling the captain's words, and estimates the source of the roar.
[23:26] <Kokokokoko> It's coming from the front of the city - this is pretty damn easy to tell, since that's where people are running from and where guardsmen are rushing to. Also, the entire gigantic roar of - oh hell. From the hill she can begin to see it, beautiful blue scales attached to giant dragon wings!
[23:27] <Seira> "Lock up, get the guests to the cellar," Seira calls out to the barkeep, before breaking into a run for the gates.
[23:27] <Seira> roll 1d20+10
[23:27] * Hatbot --> "Seira rolls 1d20+10 and gets 29."12 [1d20=19]
[23:30] <Kokokokoko> Seira races along...OOC - #evil shortly.

[Corwin]

[19:08] <Kotono> ---
[19:11] <Kotono> So Shamal settles into the quiet of the guard garrison. A few privates are assigned here, incluing a clerk that hovers outside of the guard office. There's also the actual office, if Shamal wants to stay there. OOC - Sketch out how you're passing the time, say?
[19:14] * Shamal sits at the desk in the office and busies herself by reading over recent reports of incidents in the town, getting a feel for where the trouble spots are and how she should allocate patrols in future, under the assumption she'll be covering this role for a few more days.
[19:17] <Kotono> Beyond notable ones like 'OH GOD A DEMON TIGER!' or 'ZOMBIES WAKL THE STREETS?!', Shamal notes a few things. Pickpocketing happens on occasion, as do brawls and drunkenness. Nothing too serious lately, at least. Most of it happens in the east part of town or by the front inns.
[19:21] <Shamal> At least her impulse to favour the east side proved correct. She'd hoped the presence of the gate guards would let her get away with neglecting that area in favour of the docks, but she'll correct said oversight tomorrow. Stepping out of the guard office, she decides to make some conversation with the resident clerk.
[19:21] <Shamal> "So, is this post mostly just sitting around and waiting for an emergency after everyone gets dispatched in the morning?" she asks idly.
[19:22] <Kotono> "If we're not short on men, that's correct, sir," he reports, an older man with a wooden peg in place of a leg. "Sometimes he'll come along to inspect things with his own eyes, of course."
[19:27] <Shamal> "I'd prefer to stay close in case such an emergency does occur... Ah, well, I think I'll inspect the guards here in case we get another attack like last month. Keeps me busy, I suppose," she smiles, going to take a stroll around the garrison, making sure she's quite visible in case any runners do come in search of her while she's not in the office.
[19:28] <Kotono> roll 1d100
[19:28] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d100 and gets 29."12 [1d100=29]
[19:29] <Kotono> About an hour passes before Shamal gets a runner. A youth in a tailored uniform, huffing and puffing as he waves towards Shamal. "Captain!"
[19:29] <Kotono> The hallway has a few soldiers saluting as Shamal passes, a well defended part of the garrison. Rather quiet as most people are working, only a few noises coming from a small smithery within.
[19:32] * Shamal walks quickly over to meet the runner. "At ease and report, soldier," she nods expectantly to him.
[19:34] <Kotono> Leaning against the wall with one hand as he catches his breath, "There's been a disturbance, sir. Reporting; a theft was seen in the markets. A young man stole fruit and vegetables, the guard was unable to apprehend him."
[19:35] <Shamal> "Well why not?" Shamal asks, fighting to hide her disappointment. "Was he already gone by the time the crime was reported?"
[19:37] <Kotono> "He had a lead and was able to outrun them, sir," the report is precise, "Beyond that, I don't know the details yet. Do you wish for me to pass on any orders to them?"
[19:41] * Shamal resists the urge to pass along an order of 'eat less pies'. "Get a description of the thief and pass it along to Jones' and O'Hanlon's patrols," she requests, naming two of the patrols that are covering stretches of the slums adjacent to the market district. "Maybe they'll get lucky. Otherwise I'll wait for the full report this afternoon. Dismissed," she nods sharply.
[19:43] <Kotono> The runner nods, leaving Shamal to her own devices again. OOC - Doing anything of ntoe now?
[19:43] <Shamal> OOC: are there any guards drilling in the practice ground?
[19:44] <Kotono> OOC: There's soldiers there, yeah.
[19:45] <Shamal> After making a brief circuit of the active defences of the garrison, Shamal stops to observe the practicing soldiers for a little while to see how they're shaping up...
[19:48] <Kotono> They're green. Shamal can tell this right away, her own battle experiences showing where they're leaving gaps and holes in their offence.  Still, they're practicing quite hard, with considerable determination.
[19:52] <Kotono> As this happens, eventually a soldier trots up to Shamal, saluting. Next to him is a scruffy sailor, eyepatch and bandanna worn. He leers at Shamal a moment, before nodding and twiddling off and away. "Sir," the soldier reports. "A message has been written for you from Captain Seira."
[19:52] * Shamal observes for a little while before she's interrupted. "Thank you, private," she returns the salute before accepting the message and reading it.
[19:56] <Seira> "Shamal. We broke up a fight in the Barnacle pub. Three people are to be taken into custody, one given jailtime for going against the authority of the Guard. Please send troops to relieve Demedais at the scene. Signed, Seira."
[19:59] * Shamal goes to find one of the everpresent runners milling around the garrison and hands him the note. "Find the patrol led by private Hesta - they're covering Cooper Street by the docks. They're to bring in the prisoners detained by Lieutenant Demedais at the Sour Barnacle."
[20:00] <Kotono> The runner salutes after a moment, looking over your shoulder towards the garrison doors. He salutes extra good and runs off.
[20:00] <Shamal> Giving him a salute in reply, Shamal takes the hint and glances back towards the doors.
[20:05] <Kotono> You catch Commander Oberuth sighing in relief, just out of the garrison doors. He stretches his arms, soaking in the sun a moment before he starts to walk in your direction. "Hard at work," he asks, plainly.
[20:07] <Shamal> "Hasn't been too bad so far, sir. Had a report of a thief that got away with some fruit and veg in the market district, and Seira's group apprehended some brawlers down at the docks - I just sent someone off to bring the participants into custody," Shamal replies easily. "The hardest part is the waiting, I think."
[20:07] <Kotono> "Isn't it?" The commander speaks as he chuckles to himself, rumbling as he walks along. "Command has that problem."
[20:10] <Shamal> "Sadly I'm not confident enough in my melee skills to teach the new recruits anything, and it would probably be cruel to introduce them to the concepts of magical combat so soon," the blonde laments, casting a glance over to the drill field. "Still, at least the defences are better now, if Irenes or someone else feels like having another go at us."
[20:16] <Kotono> "...yes, they are." Lowering his voice as he walks along, heading towards the main street, "I'm afraid next time that they'll bring something worse than lighting."
[20:19] <Shamal> "My own studies are quickening in their pace, but I still regret there's a wide gulf between my capabilities and those of Irenes, and it favours the latter," Shamal admits sadly, matching his volume as she walks him to the gates. "If I may ask, where are you off to, sir?" she asks, trying not to sound like she's prying, since it's just idle curiousity.
[20:27] <Kotono> "Lunch and a short walk. If I spend the entire day inside I get disagreeable. Being inside all day still doesn't feel right." As you walk along, Oberuth looks ahead, not speaking.
[20:29] * Shamal nods understandingly. "I know the feeling. Ah, well, I'll remain in case anything pops up - enjoy your lunch, sir," she offers a brief salute as they reach the gate.
[20:32] <Kotono> So you reach the gates with a bit more walking, the time passing. "I will." It's relatively quiet at the gate today, no one entering right now.
[20:35] * Shamal resumes maintaining a visible presence around the garrison and masking her boredom as she waits for things to happen, silently reflecting that she should've brought the wolves along - at least she could train them a bit while waiting. But if she knows she'll be on this duty tomorrow, she can bring them in when she arrives in the morning.

[Corwin]

[18:23] <Kokokokoko> roll 1d20+3
[18:23] * Hatbot --> "Kokokokoko rolls 1d20+3 and gets 6."12 [1d20=3]
[18:23] <Kokokokoko> roll 1d20+3
[18:23] * Hatbot --> "Kokokokoko rolls 1d20+3 and gets 12."12 [1d20=9]
[18:23] <Kokokokoko> roll 1d20+2
[18:23] * Hatbot --> "Kokokokoko rolls 1d20+2 and gets 12."12 [1d20=10]
[18:23] <Kokokokoko> roll 1d20+2
[18:23] * Hatbot --> "Kokokokoko rolls 1d20+2 and gets 14."12 [1d20=12]
[18:23] <Kokokokoko> roll 1d20+3
[18:23] * Hatbot --> "Kokokokoko rolls 1d20+3 and gets 19."12 [1d20=16]
[18:26] <Kokokokoko> About a half hour later, Shamal's respite is broken. A runner approaches, huffing and puffing, a young man working up the ranks ever so slowly. "Sir!" he salutes as he catches Shamal puttering around the training yard.
[18:27] * Shamal gives a salute in reply as she turns to face the runner. "Report," she nods crisply.
[18:29] <Kokokokoko> "A patrol in the southeastern part of the city has broken up a domestic argument. Private Biggs wished to send word that the situation is under full control," he reports, saluting after.
[18:31] <Shamal> "Excellent," Shamal nods, not showing her boredom. Do they really have to report every little minutae of their day? "I'll look forward to hearing his report. Dismissed."
[18:33] <Kokokokoko> "Sir," the guard bows his head and nods, running off. OOC: What are you up to now?
[18:34] <Shamal> Thinking back to the incident involving the thief who got away at the market earlier, Shamal decides to make a stop at the procurement/logistics office. She doubts funds will be spared for her suggestion, but it's worth a shot.
[18:40] <Kokokokoko> So Shamal heads along. As she walks, she finds a distraction. In the halls as she walks, Al-Lamar passes her by. On seeing her, his face lights up. "Shamal," he calls, quickly coming over, even under the burden of his armor.
[18:41] <Shamal> "Oh, hello, Al-Lamar," the blonde smiles, in no particular rush and happy for any distraction. Giving him a quick salute, she adds, "What can I help you with?"
[18:42] <Kokokokoko> "I keep hearing of your deeds and braveries in battle," he speaks quickly, eyes sharp and voice warm. "Is it true that you struck down several trolls at once in a glorious charge?"
[18:43] * Shamal blinks. "Er... no," she shakes her head, somewhat embarrassed. "Where did you hear that?"
[18:44] <Kokokokoko> "Aah..." His face drops a moment, a look quickly schooled into neutrality. "The rumors that swirl about your battles are not few. I believe I heard that one in the mess hall."
[18:47] <Shamal> "Ahh... well, I did kill one troll, once, if that makes you feel any better?" She offers comfortingly, before frowning slightly. "Well, it wasn't me as such, but I summoned the fire elemental that did it, so that counts, right?" she hazards.
[18:50] <Kokokokoko> "It's close," he allows this with a half hearted smile, "Still, will you tell me of your battles firsthand, then?" His interest seems to perk up, a light in his eye. "So far the Warmaster has not seen it fit to give me great trials and wartimes..."
[18:53] <Shamal> "My battles aren't very inspiring at all, truth be told," Shamal looks rather embarrassed, not meeting Al-Lamar's eyes. "I normally just provide support to the other members of the Crimson Guard and summon servants of Mielikki to aid me. Like when those ghouls were here, they kept paralyzing me with their claws, and I only survived thanks to my allies."
[18:54] <Kokokokoko> "Do you not wield the vengence of nature that your Goddess gives you?" he asks, voice rising, "Can you note smite them with the fury of wild animals and savagery?"
[18:55] <Shamal> "The animals do the smiting, I just sort of... direct them," Shamal replies hesitantly, before sighing. "Come on, Al-Lamar, look at me!" she rolls up her sleeve, showing a slim and delicate female arm, "Is this the arm of someone who goes around inflicting savage smitings? My quarterstaff is really just for show."
[19:02] <Kokokokoko> "...I lack words," he murmurs at first, poking at that delicate arm. "Yet there is surely power in there. Not even a fiery burning of war or a freezing burst of tactics?"
[19:04] * Shamal draws her arm back and replaces her sleeve. "Well, yes, but my power comes from my arcane knowledge and the divine blessings of Mielikki - surely as a man of faith you can understand the latter?" she asks.
[19:08] <Kokokokoko> "That's still your migth, given to you by your goddess," Al-Lamar nods decisively, "As savage as any warmace to a foe's face."
[19:11] <Shamal> "I prefer to think of my magic as more subtle, but it can be like that," Shamal agrees thoughtfully. "I prefer to use my spells dictate the flow of battle rather than simply blasting at the enemy, however, so that my allies can more effectively prevail - as I said before, my role is that of providing support, not claiming glory for myself."
[19:13] <Kokokokoko> "That's just as vital - it's good tactics," Al Lamar quickly agrees with you, "You're like the colonel that commands the flow of the regimental battle."
[19:17] <Shamal> "Well, I'm only a captain, and only deal with small scale battles..." the blonde demurs modestly. "I mean, you have to have a head for tactics in this line of work if you want to survive, but I could hardly be compared with say Colonel Khardon - I heard stories about his victories in the war, and that's on a scale I can't approach."
[19:20] <Kokokokoko> "Still!" Shaking his head, "I just wish that I will be as blessed as you one day soon. Perhaps I should go to the Barbarian Lands and seek battle there to hone myself?"
[19:22] <Shamal> "Aren't you feel fulfilled in your role, here?" Shamal asks sympathetically, all too glad to get off the subject of her legendary battle prowess.
[19:22] <Shamal> feeling*
[19:24] <Kokokokoko> "I heal nicks and I hold my vigil, but yet..." He looks to Shamal frankly, "You're the ones at the forefront. I believe Tempus may be telling me that I should strike out for a time to find my own fortunes and hardness."
[19:27] <Shamal> "I'm not so sure - from the rumours I'm hearing from down South, battle might be coming our way sooner than most would like," Shamal replies thoughtfully. "Still, a message from your God is not something to be taken lightly - if you feel it is truly Tempus' will, it merits serious consideration."
[19:31] <Kokokokoko> "It does," he agrees thoughtfully, but shakes himself out of it, "But...I have duties to attend to now. May Tempus guide yoru battles!"
[19:35] <Shamal> "Blessings of the Forest Queen to you," Shamal gives her own less martial benediction in reply, before resuming her journey to the procurement office.
[19:39] <Kokokokoko> THis only takes a little more. Here she finds a tired looking private, yawning into his hand, blonde hair short and well kept as can be. Despite a strangely mocking smile, he salutes. "Captain, what can I help you with?"
[19:43] <Shamal> "I doubt the budget will allow for it," Shamal admits after returning the salute, "And I'm only temporarily looking after the town patrols anyway. However, I'd like to make a request for a dozen tanglefoot bags for allocation to the the town patrol group."
[19:47] <Kokokokoko> "How much would that cost..."he stops and blinks, taking some paper and starting to do long math.
[19:50] <Shamal> "Six hundred gold at market prices... a lot for consumable items, I admit, but you never know unless you ask, right?" she flashes a smile as she leans on the desk.
[19:51] <Kokokokoko> "That's over 500 gold!" He blurts suddenly, having finished carryign the numbers, speaking a second after Shamal. "I uh that's completely over any budget I know we have!" Despite that, he does blush a bit at that smile, before shaking his head. "600 gold! 600!"
[19:53] <Shamal> "Oh, that bad?" Shamal blinks. "I've never really gotten involved in the budget side of things before, but I suppose it is a lot... I just thought we had a bit more to spread around, to be honest."
[19:55] <Kokokokoko> "That's al ot for disposable items!" he blurts out, "WIth all the goings on and difficulties - which...hey, wait, aren't you one of them?" he stops abruptly.
[19:56] <Shamal> "One of what?" Shamal repeats a bit suspiciously. Surely no one could think of her as a difficulty?!
[19:57] <Kokokokoko> "You know, the Crimson Guard! I didn't even think about it until..." Shaking his head back and forth, "AAaaaah, I spend too much time with all these numbers. I did it again..." Muttering under his breath and bowing his head, "Well, for a hero and a captain I can scrape up enough for a few...but why?"
[20:00] <Shamal> "Oh, no no no," Shamal waves her hands in a negative gesture. "If there's no money in the budget then there's no money - I don't want to be responsible for us not being able to afford new arrows halfway through the year. I just thought tanglefoot bags would be useful against fleeing suspects, since the guard tend to be slowed down by their armour." She looks thoughtful for a moment.
[20:00] <Shamal> "Also, they really mess up spellcasters, which could be a great equaliser for most of the men," she adds, as if betraying a trade secret.
[20:02] <Kokokokoko> "Oooh...well, I suppose I can tell it to my superior..." he murmurs and nods, starting to smile.
[20:03] * Shamal smiles back. "I think it'd be a good idea - if nothing else, I can make them myself on the cheap, it just takes a while. Still, I have other ideas to help improve the effectiveness of the town patrols, so don't worry too much if you can't get approval," she offers consolingly.
[20:06] <Kokokokoko> "Yes, ma'am," he nods, smiling now. "I'll try, ma'am."
[20:06] <Shamal> "All I can ask," Shamal replies easily, giving a salute before heading off to resume wandering the garrison and hopefully looking busy.
[20:08] <Kokokokoko> So Shamal gets back to work. It's when she happens to be watching young, strong, strapping young recruits practicing shield defenses that Demedais returns, finding her there.
[20:10] <Demedais> "Lieutenant Demedais with a message for Shamal." Demedais announces with a slight snarky tone and a wry grin. "Seira will be hosting the foreign emissiary from the Fiefdoms at her inn, and assisting him when necessary."
[20:11] <Shamal> "Lucky her," Shamal returns. "What's he like?"
[20:12] <Demedais> "Quiet. Determined. Sounds like we could have made a fortune if we had kept that create water gem intact."
[20:15] <Kokokokoko> As you talk, you notice a runner is hurrying towards Shamal at a breakneck pace.
[20:15] <Shamal> "Well, I'm sure Seira's at least happy that she won't need to bother making a trip to the well ever again," the blonde shrugs half-heartedly. "Not much happening here, I'm afraid. The brawl you broke up was the most exciting report to reach me, so far... Oh, I jinxed myself," she mutters, trailing off and turning to greet the runner with a salute. "Report."
[20:16] * Demedais steps back, nodding at the man as he run towards the two.
[20:16] <Kokokokoko> "Reporting from the trade district. There has been a report of a small fight at the Temple of Waukeen, involving the high priest." He speaks quickly, "The situation is still indeterminate, but it appears to have involved traders or merchants."
[20:18] * Demedais nods. "I'll go and handle what I can there. Send men after?"
[20:18] <Shamal> "Is it under control or does the patrol there require further assistance?" Shamal asks quickly. That priest is pretty powerful, so if it threatens him it could go quite far...
[20:18] <Kokokokoko> "The situation appears to be over, but it is uncertain." Shaking his head, "Sorry, I was sent on the spur of the moment."
[20:20] <Shamal> "If it's been resolved it should be okay, but an incident involving the temple..." Shamal looks thoughtful for a moment before nodding. "Okay, Demedais, go over there with Dirk and Smoot in case a further presence is needed. Come back if it's already resolved, though."
[20:20] * Demedais nods. "Certainly." he says as he heads out toward the temple, gesturing at Dirk and Smoot to follow.
[20:24] <Kokokokoko> With two guards, Demedais heads along! They look a modicum more relaxed, Smoot asking something on the way, "Worried?" he inquires of Demedais flat off. "IS there going to bea nother hell cat running around or lighting bolts from the sky?"
[20:26] <Demedais> "Nah. So far as I know, that man isn't in town." Demedais replied.
[20:28] <Kokokokoko> "Good," Dirk mutters, as you hurry along to the temple. A small group of Malmuthian traders is departing, angry looks on their faces, about four of them. The head priest is at his altar, scowling like fire. The front of his robe is torn. A few guard stand next to him.
[20:29] <Demedais> "May I ask what the problem is here... gentlemen...?" Demedais scowls, eyes narrowed.
[20:35] <Kokokokoko> The traders just continue to leave, not stopping. The head priest takes a breath in, before assuming a more diplomatic face. "A disagreement that's been settled," he speaks with chilly tones, "There is no matter that requires further investigation. Please leave."
[20:35] <Kokokokoko> Around, the normal flow has stopped, people either gone or lingering, spying and watching. Mostly acolytes.
[20:37] * Demedais glances at the Malmuthians that have left, eyes a bit narrowed, before turning to the High Priest, attempting to figure out his intent...
[20:37] <Kokokokoko> OOC - I'm guessing sense motive?
[20:37] <Demedais> roll 1d20+11 yeah that's it
[20:37] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+11 yeah that's it and gets 29."12 [1d20=18]
[20:42] * Demedais nods slowly. "Very well, then. I'll report back to Captain Shamal and Captain Seira what you've said." He turns slowly, pausing to see if the man says anything before he departs.
[20:42] <Kokokokoko> He just nods curtly, watching Demedais go.
[20:45] * Demedais exits the place, considering. "Dirk, Smoot. I'm going to request you return to the garrison... again..." A bit of a wry grin. "And tell Shamal that the issue seems to be settled. I will go notify Seira." Demedais gestures slightly, summoning his horse from the celestial realms. "Once I'm done there, I will meet you at the garrison."
[20:49] <Kokokokoko> They both nod, neither seeming put out at all. "Don't worry about, sir," Dirk speaks, "This isn't so bad as walking the same streets for eight hours."
[20:51] <Demedais> "Heh. Malmuth has the occasional stretch of completely flat prairie. That was intense boredom." Demedais nods. "See you men back at the garrison... or not, if Shamal assigns you elsewhere. The glory of being in the drifter position." With that Demedais gets on Horse and proceeds at a fairly quick clip to the inn.
[20:53] <Kokokokoko> So Demedais goes off...OOC: Evil. A few minutes later, Shamal's boredom is broken. As she makes a good show of looking busy as she walks, Dirk and Smooth approach, saluting. "Sir," Dirk speaks. "Liuetenant Demedais has us waiting here - he went to inform Captain Seira."
[20:54] <Shamal> "Something happened?" Shamal raises an eyebrow after giving a perfunctory salute back.
[20:55] <Kokokokoko> "There looked to be a disagreement between the head priest and some Malmuthian traders, but he said there wasn't anything to investigate." Smooth scratches his stubble after that, taking upt he speaking duties. "The shift's nearly over. Request permission to leave early?"
[20:58] <Shamal> "There's no harm in it, I suppose," Shamal nods after a moment. "Permission granted. I'll see both of you tomorrow."
[21:00] <Kokokokoko> Grinning, both quickly hurry away.
[21:02] * Shamal decides to go hole up in her office for a little while. Sadly she can't relax until the night shift shows up...
[21:06] <Kokokokoko> roll 1d100
[21:06] * Hatbot --> "Kokokokoko rolls 1d100 and gets 98."12 [1d100=98]
[21:08] <Kokokokoko> The time ticks by. Tick, tock, tick, tock, tick, tock, tick, tock, tick, tock, tick, tock, tick, tock, tick, tock, tickARGH. Shamal finds the latter part of her day an unbearable drudgery. It's not until a breathless runner knocks on the office door that there is any relief. "S-sir," he gasps out, "A-at the gate!"
[21:10] <Shamal> "What is it?" Shamal asks, smartly getting up.
[21:10] <Kokokokoko> His eyes are wide, words garbles, "G-g-gate..." he sputters out. "Came from the mountainsway..."
[21:11] <Shamal> "Out with it, man!" Shamal steps around her desk and marches over to stand right in front of the runner. "What's at the gate?"
[21:12] <Kokokokoko> "It's...it's...blue...very blue..." he sputters, "Like blue terror..."
[21:12] <Shamal> "Is it attacking? Is it a monster? Are reinforcements required?" Shamal presses. "Details!"
[21:14] <Kokokokoko> "It's flying! D-dragon..." he whimpers, as you hear a scream from outside. "Blue...d-dragon..."
[21:15] <Shamal> "Well why didn't you say so! Inform the Commander at once!" Shamal practically shrieks, before bolting out the door and whistling for Laika who's been napping by the barracks all day. "Where's Lieutenant Demedais?" she asks the first person she encounters once out of the office, glancing off to the Southeast just in case she can see the dragon from here.
[21:17] <Kokokokoko> "O-outside..." the man says, as indeed, Demedais can be seen outside in the practice yard! As Shamal heads out, she hears a gigantic roar, shaking eveyrthing like an earthquake of sonic sound!
[21:19] * Shamal turns to the men practicing in the field. "Everyone, grab a bow and fall in with me!" she commands decisively. Oh, Mielikki preserve us, a real Dragon attack... "Demedais, you too!" she calls to the Paladin. "We've got a city to defend!"
[21:19] <Kokokokoko> People are starting to rush about in a panic, hurrying along! They run about, in a total panic!
[21:19] * Demedais looks up. "What in the name of Helm?" he bursts angrily. "You, there. Go fetch Captain Shama- oh, hi. And you! Go get Captain Seira at the inn! The rest of you, come with us!"
[21:19] <Kokokokoko> The guards commanded begin to obey, well most of them. A few are too incoherent to do anything, but most begin to rush to arms.
[21:20] <Shamal> Once everyone's grabbed their weapons and in good order, Shamal hurries to the gate, Laika hot on her heels. "Look smart, men, this one's for real!" she encourages them as she rushes off to face the threat to her city!
[21:21] * Shamal casts Mirror Image as she goes!
[21:21] <Shamal> roll 1d4+2
[21:21] * Hatbot --> "Shamal rolls 1d4+2 and gets 6."12 [1d4=4]
[21:21] * Demedais rides forward on Horse, attempting to get a glimpse of the whatever it is that's attacking!
[21:21] <Kokokokoko> Yet around Demedais, the guards show unusualc ourage, beginning to rally! People are rushing around the gate, as you see Commander OBeruth stepping outside of it, sword drawn. The rest are staying back, anxious. Teh air beginst o get heavy, like fearful lead.
[21:22] <Kokokokoko> Demedais rushes ahead quicker, getting to the ga-oh Gods. He can only see a little of it, yet the rest can be seen above. It towers, giant wings of sapphire blue. It's body is as large half the town, each motino of it's wings starting a little gale.
[21:23] <Kokokokoko> It seems to be sitting, waiting outside of the gates.
[21:24] * Shamal leads the soldiers under her command rapidly, hurrying to reinforce the gates... though she does note it doesn't seem to have attacked yet. Maybe they'll get out of this alive? Fighting that thing sure doesn't look healthy...
[21:24] <Demedais> "...hello, dragon." Demedais murmurs as he nears Oberuth. "Care to tell me what's going on, so far as you know?" he asks, one hand on his blade.
[21:25] <Kokokokoko> "I demand that the human who presumes to rule this town come foruth!" the dragon roars in guttural common. Lighting crackles around it's mouth, as you begin to feel it's fearful presence..OOC - Sec.
[21:25] <Shamal> roll 1d20+10 knowledge arcana for laughs
[21:25] * Hatbot --> "Shamal rolls 1d20+10 knowledge arcana for laughs and gets 28."12 [1d20=18]
[21:26] <Kokokokoko> OOC - Make a will save, Shamal.
[21:26] <Kokokokoko> OOC: The +4 from Mr. Paladin applies.
[21:26] <Shamal> roll 1d20+18
[21:26] * Hatbot --> "Shamal rolls 1d20+18 and gets 20."12 [1d20=2]
[21:29] <Kokokokoko> roll 1d20+7
[21:29] * Hatbot --> "Kokokokoko rolls 1d20+7 and gets 22."12 [1d20=15]
[21:30] <Shamal> "K-kondrux, the ancient blue dragon...?" Shamal gasps fearfully as she approaches, suddenly apprehensive but steeling herself to continue.
[21:30] <Kokokokoko> You see that Commander Oberuth is literally shaking, but he nonetheless stops. He looks back, seeing Shamal, seeing Demedais, seeing the racing Seira. "Come on...I'm not going out there alone," he states.
[21:31] <Shamal> "I'm with you, sir," Shamal nods bravely, advancing to meet the dragon with Laika in her shadow.
[21:31] <Demedais> "Certainly. I wouldn't ask that of anyone." Demedais nods as steps up with Oberuth.
[21:32] <Seira> roll 1d20+9
[21:32] * Hatbot --> "Seira rolls 1d20+9 and gets 21."12 [1d20=12]
[21:33] <Kokokokoko> A lot of the guards take one look and run screaming from the dragon, yet a surprising number stand firm. Even Biggs, a spear out and watching, one amid many. You see Donald coming down the street as well, greatsword out as he rushes. Even Countess Stronger, beginning to come down from her hilly shopa s well...
[21:34] <Kokokokoko> So Commander Oberuth steps out, followed by a brave few. The sun is gone out the gate - the dragon blocks it as easily as the night sky does, the outer gate in it's vast shadow. "Humans..." it rumbles, "Your kind has awoken me!"
[21:35] <Shamal> All seven Shamals look expectantly to the Commander... he's the guy in charge, after all.
[21:35] <Kokokokoko> Commander Oberuth begins to lick his lips, "...what is it you want?" he calls back, ready.
[21:35] <Demedais> "How have we managed that, sir dragon?" Demedais replied, looking up at him, unflinching.
[21:35] * Seira maintains her expression as neutral as she can, content to observe at present as she attempt to regain her wits.
[21:36] <Kokokokoko> "You have disturbed my long rest with these...I have mercy, one still lives." With a flap of it's wing, one small human girl appears in front of you. She has a quiver of arrows on her back, rather tiny. "I will come again, expecting a great tribute as penance."
[21:37] * Seira twitches at the insult.
[21:38] * Shamal instinctively rushes forward at the sight of the injured girl, but stops about halfway. "Ah... Mighty Kondrux, might I approach in order to tend to the one who has offended you so?" she asks with utmost respect and deference.
[21:40] <Kokokokoko> "She is of no concern to me now," the dragon's voice causes a new thrill of terror to pass through most. "I will return in my own time. None shall stop me if you dare defy me!" With that the dragon's wings flap, it's scaled body taking to the air.
[21:41] * Shamal takes out her wand and heals the foolish girl who's probably doomed them all, still shaking a bit in terror from the close encounter.
[21:41] <Shamal> roll 1d8+1
[21:41] * Hatbot --> "Shamal rolls 1d8+1 and gets 9."12 [1d8=8]
[21:41] <Kokokokoko> Her body is unharmed, she only looks to be asleep. Still, the magic does seem to do a little good.
[21:41] * Seira twitches some more. "Dismissed... so casually...."
[21:41] * Demedais stares upward, examining the dragon coolly. "Well, then. Um. This should be an interesting few days."
[21:42] <Kokokokoko> Commander Oberuth breathes out, his voice ragged, "Get her inside, now."
[21:42] * Shamal attempts to wake the girl by shaking her. "Wake up... you've got a lot of explaining to do."
[21:43] <Kokokokoko> She doesn't seem to stir from Shamal's shaking.
[21:43] <Demedais> "You know. One would think that if she woke him up, he'd just be able to make himself fall asleep again." Demedais says blithely as he examines the girl quickly before lifting her up and carrying her toward the garrison.
[21:44] * Shamal follows Demedais, still rather cowed from the dragon's effect on her. The legends do not do them justice...
[21:44] <Kokokokoko> As Demedais does, he passes several - including Countess Stronger, who stares at the girl with a dead white pallor, eyes wide.
[21:45] <Seira> After making sure the dragon is long gone beyond its ability to hear her, Seira swiftly turns towards Commander Oberuth. "We will begin making preparations to deal with the dragon threat at once, Sir, correct?"
[21:45] <Kokokokoko> "Yes..." he murmurs, "I have many things to do." He breathes in and out a few times, "All of you, get what you can from the girl adn we'll meet together in two hours."
[21:45] * Demedais hesitates before Stronger. "You know this girl?"
[21:46] <Seira> "So do I," Seira voices. "She's a mercenary, an adventurer."
[21:46] <Kokokokoko> She looks away, "Yes, I do," she says, voice flat. "I hired her to go get me shocker lizards from the mountains."
[21:47] <Demedais> "...Well, she found you a whopper." Demedais says drily as he continues on to the garrison.
[21:47] <Seira> "It is just a big lizard," Seira mutters hatefully under her breath. "The bigger they are...."
[21:48] <Shamal> "The more of us they squash?" Shamal finishes mournfully.
[21:49] <Seira> "Hmm? Oh, I was just thinking of ballistras," Seira says distractedly.
[22:10] * Shamal is now known as Ebiris
[22:13] * Demedais is now known as Taishyr
[22:19] * Ebiris is now known as Shamal
[22:19] <Kokokokoko> The party heads to the garrison, amid the chaos that is forming. Into an empty room, a cot quickly arraigned. In here you have almost quiet, almost solitude. Pollyanna sleeps fitfully, beginning to stir as you watch her.
[22:19] * Taishyr is now known as Demedais
[22:20] * Demedais sits down, waiting for the girl to wake up, eyeing her harshly.
[22:20] * Seira regains full control of her faculties, and keeps her seething anger down as well, likewise waiting.
[22:21] <Shamal> Even if she's no longer terrified, Shamal still looks very worried as she putters around and waits for the girl to wake up...
[22:22] <Kokokokoko> "Brother..." she whispers, sitting upright like a ramrod. Her eyes open into wild confusion, looking around. "Brother?!""
[22:23] <Seira> "You are safe now, it seems," Seira remarks, stepping closer. "Do you know what happened?"
[22:24] <Kokokokoko> "Brother?!" she asks again, looking around wildly. "What happened, where are..." she breathes out, eyes going wide. "A...am I dead?" she squeaks. "I remember...the dragon was looming over..."
[22:25] <Seira> "It is gone, now," Seira tells her. "Did you awaken it?"
[22:26] * Shamal lets Seira handle the talking, not wanting to overly bombard the poor girl. She'll get enough of that, soon anyway...
[22:28] <Kokokokoko> Pollyanna looks at Seira with a blankness, "We were hunting the big ones, but...that passage deep in the mountains, it was so well hidden. It was one in a hundred, or a few in a hundred we'd ever have found it. But we did and..." She shivers, holding herself. "It woke up!"
[22:28] * Seira sighs. "You are back in Balmuria. Do you know why it took you here?"
[22:32] <Kokokokoko> "Balmuria..." Pollyanna says it like she doesn't believe, but then twitches. Tears begint o rund down her face, as she whispers, "...oh...oh no...Brother..." her voice catches, as a hand goes to her cheek. "Oh God...it was the dragon...It...it's breath, they screamed, and..."
[22:32] * Demedais bows his head in thought.
[22:32] <Seira> "I'm sorry," Seira offers simply.
[22:33] <Demedais> "Did you two get an estimate of how old the bloody thing is?" Demedais asks during the silence.
[22:34] <Kokokokoko> "No...no..." She whimpers, burying her face into her hands. "It was light storm lighting, and it all came at once."
[22:34] <Seira> "Very old," Seira responds with a grimace.
[22:34] <Shamal> "I'm sorry for your loss," Shamal echoes before she glances at Demedais, "I've heard of him before - his name is Kondrux, and he's easily more than half a millenia old. Maybe even closer to a thousand years, by now."
[22:35] <Seira> "It wants something," Seira states firmly, refusing to call the dragon a 'he'. "Otherwise, it would not have come and made these demands."
[22:37] <Demedais> "Did it not state what it wanted?!" Demedais asks irritably.
[22:37] <Shamal> "Tribute," Shamal replies patiently. "That could mean many things, Demedais."
[22:38] <Kokokokoko> "It's hoard...it was gold..." Whimpering a moment, "So much gold, that was why we went in." Pollyanna speaks up, wiping her face. "Gold as far as the eye could see."
[22:38] * Seira nods. "Exactly. And for all its bluster, it does not intend to destroy our town."
[22:39] * Seira sighs again. "I warned you about walking into danger with gold on your mind before," she chides the girl.
[22:39] * Demedais stands abruptly and leaves the room, brow furrowed.
[22:40] <Shamal> "You two know each other?" Shamal asks in surprise, glancing briefly in Demedais' direction but not stopping him.
[22:40] <Seira> "In a manner of speaking," Seira affirms.
[22:41] <Kokokokoko> "...I remember from when we came here..." LIcking her lips, she starts to cry a little, but manages to stop. "The gates."
[22:41] * Demedais walks away from the room, looking around in a slight red haze of anger.
[22:42] <Seira> "The real question is not what the tribute in question is, I feel, but when the dragon intends to return," Seira muses out loud.
[22:42] <Shamal> "Did the dragon say anything when you encountered it?" Shamal asks, putting a comforting hand on Pollyanna's shoulder. Poor girl...
[22:45] <Kokokokoko> "It...it..." Taking a shivering breath, "It was angry about being woken up."
[22:48] <Shamal> Sitting on the cot, Shamal puts an arm around Pollyanna, trying to give her some measure of comfort and reassurance. "Can you remember what it said? It might not be important, but anything we can know might help, even if it seems a small thing," she encourages.
[22:50] <Kokokokoko> So held, the shaken young girl curls towards Shamal. "It..woke up, roared and...asked why miserable humans had awoken it. It was angry about being woken up early and it said that we and our racial siblings will pay for our transgressions."
[22:51] * Demedais looks and, seeing nothing, calls upon Horse and gallops off to the temple, attempting to focus.
[22:51] <Kokokokoko> OOC: #dunes

<--->

[00:53] <Kokokokoko> -
[00:54] <Kokokokoko> Demedais rushes back to the Temple of Helm. In this state he finds it in utter chaos - people are preparing, priests reassuring people while arms are clearly visible. It looks like a war scene in preparation.
[00:55] * Demedais nods grimly as he heads into the heart of the temple, looking around for some order to the chaos.
[00:55] <Kokokokoko> There is - the priests are keeping some order, including Father Ceiar. They're all busy at the moment, the matter at hand pressing.
[00:56] * Demedais considers for a second, then looks for the high priest so as to get direction from him.
[00:59] <Kokokokoko> The high priest is running everything in a haste, strong and at the forefront. "Demedais!" he booms as he approaches, voice commanding, without hesitation, none this time. "You know the dreadful situation?"
[01:01] <Demedais> "I was there to confront the dragon myself." Demedais replies. "My companions are attempting to learn as much as they can about the beast. I am afraid that I would be of little assistance in that regard, so I have come here. What may I do to be of assistance?"
[01:02] <Kokokokoko> "You are our champion, Demedais," Clasping him on the shoulder once, "I will aid the cause as I can with healing and protection. The others that cannot hope to fight will handle the mundane details. As for you...if all else fails, pray to Helm. In this time of crisis, surely the watcher will be at our side.:"
[01:03] * Demedais nods. "Very well, then." After a moment, "If I am needed, I will be in my cell. Do not hesitate to call upon me."
[01:04] <Kokokokoko> "I will not hesitate," he promises, "Go then. Prepare asyou will, be it tomorrow or in a month that this returns."
[01:05] <Demedais> "The more time to prepare, the better, so long as we possess constant vigilance." he replies. "Let us hope that it spoke of dragon time..." With that, Demedais moves to the back of the temple, to his room for quiet prayer.
[01:07] <Kokokokoko> OOC - Make a wisdom check. +5 circumstancial bonus here, I think.
[01:07] <Demedais> roll 1d20+6 +1 wis check?!? ;_;
[01:07] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+6 +1 wis check?!? ;_; and gets 19."12 [1d20=13]
[01:09] <Kokokokoko> Demedais begins to meditate. It is not a fast thing, nor does it bring easy answers. But instead, slowly peace spreads through him. The times slip by like a second skin peeling away from your body. As they do, you begin to see. Great Valandia, proud and noble. Above it, a blue dragon circles before landing. Amid all of it, an old man comes out to answer, talking to it.
[01:11] * Demedais focuses, attempting to see if he can bring this vision into any greater focus while continuing his prayers.
[01:11] <Kokokokoko> The dragon is demanding. Most of the Malmuthian soldiers cower in fear, yet a few stand firm. Including the old man, eyes like frozen ice. He doesn't look afraid, listening before the dragon takes off into the air anda way, back towards the mountains.
[01:15] * Demedais nods slowly, keeping his mind's eye upon this unfolding vision to ensure there are no more clues to be divined.
[20:13] <Soda_Vampire> As you see Valandia break into terror, your vision wavers. Dedication into a peaceful reverie, as you feel your offhand ache. It itches, as you begin to notice that it touches cool metal. The cool metal of the Fifth Resort, it's shield front touched.
[20:15] * Demedais allows himself to slip back, and looks at the shield for a few seconds, a bit confused from the vision.
[20:17] <Soda_Vampire> The shield rests against your hand, cool as metal to your touch.
[20:18] * Demedais pauses, and lets a prayer of thanks to Helm fly before he takes the Fifth Resort with him, back to the garrison to discuss what he's seen.

<--->

[22:52] <Shamal> "And then it attacked you?" the blonde concludes softly as she holds Pollyanna, rubbing her hand up and down her arm as she tries to calm and soothe her.
[22:53] <Kokokokoko> "It...did. With one breath, all three of them..." she shivers, "There wasn't even much left, just...ash. Burned ashes from the lighting. I don't remembe ranything else."
[22:54] <Seira> "It might be for the best."
[22:54] <Shamal> "It's alright. You're safe, now," Shamal reassures as best she can. But can they guarantee the safety of anyone in the city with how things are right now?
[22:56] <Kokokokoko> "It's not right..." she says, weak. "I'm sorry...I'm sorry. But...how did I dget here?"
[22:57] <Shamal> "The Dragon brought you," Shamal admits honestly. "Said it was a gesture of mercy..."
[22:59] <Kokokokoko> The choking sob from Pollyanna's throat is mixed with a hint of anger, as she looks at Shamal in disbelief. "Why...oh." she murmurs, "You're the ones that it's going to take it's revenge on?"
[23:00] <Shamal> "It said it will return and demand great tribute as penance." Shamal looks away, "I'm honestly not sure what we'll do when that happens..."
[23:00] <Seira> "It's certainly going to try," Seria mutters to herself. "We won't be caught off guard, next time, and will be able to negotiate effectively."
[23:01] <Kokokokoko> "......" She doesn't respond, looking away from both women. "Are you going to give it what it wants? Are you going to...try and fight?"
[23:02] <Seira> "We're gpomg to stall," Seira says, glancing at those present.
[23:02] <Seira> *going
[23:02] * Shamal shakes her head slowly. "It's not our decision to make... whatever the Commander decides, that's what we'll do." Taking a deep breath, "That's all we can do."
[23:04] <Kokokokoko> Pollyanna nods once, before looking at both captains. "If there's anything I can do to help this at all, tell me. PLEASE." Her last note has a pleading note, desperate.
[23:05] <Seira> "We'll let you know," Seira tells her. "For now, gather your strength and rest."
[23:06] * Shamal nods, slowly disentangling herself from the younger girl. "We need to speak to our superiors - rest here, and we'll talk more later. Laika will keep an eye on you," she glances down at her dog with a smile, though Laika herself still looks a bit spooked from earlier events, laying down unobrusively below the cot.
[23:08] <Kokokokoko> "Dog..." she whispers, "Laika? C-come here?"
[23:09] <Shamal> Laika makes an inquisitive noise and sits up, resting her head on the edge of the cot next to Pollyanna while Shamal departs to seek out the Commander.
[23:09] * Seira follows quietly.
[23:11] <Kokokokoko> It takes a bit to get to the Commander. He's knee deep in organizing, getting people around. But within ten minutes, the three are seated in his office, even as runners go back and forth. "Report," he says, voice terse. "We can do away with the formalities, so get to the heart of the matter."
[23:12] <Seira> "The dragon wants to take revenge on us because you are all humans, as are those who woke it," Seira summarizes. "I propose stalling it as much as possible as we explore all our options."
[23:13] <Shamal> "It apparently said it was woken 'early'," Shamal puts in. "I find that a curious wording, but am unsure how we can discern more about what it's early for or use that knowledge to our advantage."
[23:14] <Seira> "Both Shamal and I have read of it," Seira adds. "There might be more careful research would provide. Particular weak spots, previous dealings with it, any enemies who might be more amenable to us, as the dragon in question is evil."

[Corwin]

[18:12] <Soda_Vampire> "Yes, we need weaknesses of any sort. Information, anything to get a leg up on it." So he continues, "Are there any conventional weaknesses for a dragon? Any way to weaken them or negate their effects?"
[18:16] <Shamal> "Blue dragons have no overt weaknesses," Shamal admits. "They are exceptionally strong physical combatants, fast flyers, highly resistant to magic, and often possessing some spellcasting ability themselves. Coupled with this particular dragon's age..." she looks down. "I'm sorry sir. Even though I have a few spells that may be of use such as preventing it from flying, the chances of it simply resisting their effects is very high."
[18:18] <Soda_Vampire> "Damn it..." BReathing out at those words, Oberuth turns to Seira. "Seira, can you think of anything, then? Anythinga ta ll?"
[18:39] <Seira> "Well. First of all, our first move is very important, because if we make a mistake it will be out last. For that goal, we should do better against the unnatural fear dragons strike in the hearts of mortals."
[18:41] <Soda_Vampire> Oberuth nods very thoughtfully, "If we can't fight with a clear head, we're already one step behind."
[18:42] <Seira> "I also advise against fighting at present," Seira says surprisingly. "I know it frustrates you, Sir. I'm the one who wants to slay it the most, but as things stand we are simply no match. We must have a clear head, a shielded mind, and negotiate."
[18:43] * Shamal nods reluctantly. "Attempting to battle it would be a brave gesture, but would only bring destruction upon the city," she admits.
[18:44] <Soda_Vampire> "Then...damnations." Muttering under his breath, Oberuth ponders as he rubs his chin. "How can we protect ourselves...besides Demedais, since I think he was still running his mouth the entire time."
[18:45] <Seira> "There was a spell I ran into when researching something unrelated," Seira ventures. "Along with others we already know and may prepare into scroll form in advance, it could allow us to keep our cool in a dragon's presence."
[18:45] <Shamal> "Potions of resistance to fear are easily come by - I purchased a few from the Temple of Waukeen for dealing with the hag," Shamal chips in.
[18:46] <Seira> "That would work as well," Seira agrees, nodding. "And we may still have time. If it asks for something too unreasonable, we could get that to buy us time. If we manage to gather more Resorts in that time...."
[18:47] <Soda_Vampire> "Good. Procure them," Oberuth speaks, shortly. As he does, Demedais slowly enters the room. "We'll get those potions however we can and worry about compensation later."
[18:47] <Soda_Vampire> A nod as well, grim, "We need something to strengthen our hand. But speaking of the REsorts...Demedais?"
[18:47] <Demedais> "Okay. Something... ah... interesting to report. I went to the Temple to cool off, and I had a vision there."
[18:49] <Soda_Vampire> "Go on," OBeruth waves his hand quickly, stopping for a moment as a runner enters. The Commander and the running talk a moment, about archer defenses. Once he runs off and leaves, "What did you see?"
[18:50] <Demedais> "In this vision, I saw Valandia... as that blue dragon circled around it." He hesitates, slightly spacy, before continuing. "An old man exited to talk to the dragon as it landed. He stood, unafraid. Eyes like ice..." He pauses for a second, then continues. "After he talked to it, the dragon left... and Valandia broke into terror. I woke from the dream to find my hand on the Resort."
[18:51] <Demedais> "I believe this means that either Valandia has faced this threat before or is facing it now. Either way, learning as much as we can from them seems to be our best option."
[18:52] <Seira> "Research it is, then," Seira confirms, nodding in approval. "This information is invaluable."
[18:52] <Soda_Vampire> "Good...misery loves company," Commander Oberuth says with a momentarily nasty smile,b efore he sighs into his hand. "If it's current, hell, our interests are entirely on the same page. If in the past, we'll need to find out anything we can about it."
[18:53] <Seira> "If it's in the past, Valandia still stands. That would mean negotiating with the dragon is possible."
[18:54] <Shamal> "Dragons are not mindless killers. The only question is whether we can afford the tribute it desires," Shamal sighs sadly.
[18:54] * Demedais nods at Seira, then looks at Oberuth. "I dislike leaving the town under such an imminent danger, but I believe talking to Valandia is our best option. If I may obtain permission to go on behalf of Balmuria..."
[18:54] <Seira> roll 1d20+10
[18:54] * Hatbot --> "Seira rolls 1d20+10 and gets 28."12 [1d20=18]
[18:55] <Soda_Vampire> "Then if our blade is no good, we work with our minds." Commander Oberuth is quite firm there, thinking a moment. "Very well, but hurry. I don't know how fast the dragon plans to move, but haste loses us nothing."
[18:55] <Seira> "I disagree," Seira states. "If we ask them head on without preparation, what reason have they to help us?"
[18:57] <Shamal> "What do you suggest, then?"
[18:58] <Demedais> "Indeed. Besides, any debt we must pay to Valandia will be no doubt cheaper than an irritable dragon." Demedais notes. "We should prepare to kill the dragon if necessary, which it very well may be - but we shouldn't risk it if we don't have to."
[18:58] <Seira> "Pouring over the records we have in our libraries, and only heading over to Valandia if this does not provide us with out answers. Then, to use stealth and attempt to do the same." She pauses, thinking. "The elven lore might possibly hold something, if not information on this dragon than on how to defeat them."
[19:00] <Soda_Vampire> Commander Oberuth nodsa fter a moment, standing. "You're all correct, and I think I lost my head there." So he stands, "I need a moment to regroup and ensure everything is going on track."
[19:00] <Demedais> "Perhaps their libraries would hold a clue. I mean, surely they spoke of how their town was saved by the man with blue eyes..." Demedais says. "Still... I don't believe we have the time." He nods at Oberuth. "We can discuss it for a bit. Go take a bit."
[19:01] <Seira> "As we hope for the best, we should prepare for the worst as well," Seira mentions. "Archers, a ballistra or two, poison and traps. Anything it takes."
[19:02] <Demedais> "Indeed." Demedais nods. "Traps away, although I'd prefer killing the thing quickly."
[19:02] <Shamal> "I'm glad I fortified the towers, at least..." Shamal mutters. "Hmm... I hesitate to suggest it, but I have been holding onto the poison that was used on Lord Salman. Dragon's have exceptionally strong constitutions, but if any poison were to have an affect, that would be it."
[19:02] <Soda_Vampire> Exiting, Commander Oberuth leaves the party alone for a time, letting them discuss.
[19:03] <Seira> "If we could contain its movement, that would help, too. They should be weak in that area," Seira adds, nodding at Shamal's words.
[19:04] <Shamal> "As I said before, I know a spell that prevents flight, magical or natural. But the chances of having it actually work on such a target are slim to none," the blonde shrugs weakly. "I don't think I've ever felt so out of my league, before..."
[19:04] <Demedais> "I'd imagine it can't be that bulky, no." Demedais ponders. "Would it be weak to fire?" he asks, looking at Shamal. "I'm honestly not too knowledgeable on the beasts other than what people say in fairy-tales for kids."
[19:05] <Seira> "I believe I'll be hitting the books immediately," Seira announces. "There is not a moment to waste. If you need me, look no further than the library."
[19:05] * Shamal shakes her head. "Some dragons have elemental weaknesses, such as Reds being vulnerable to cold. But Blue dragons have no such weaknesses," she tells Demedais.
[19:05] <Demedais> "Very well, Seira." Demedais nods.
[19:07] <Soda_Vampire> OOC: #dunes, Seia.
[19:07] * Demedais nods. "Very well." He hesitates, before saying, "Shamal... you may wish to meditate, tonight."
[19:08] <Shamal> "What makes you say that?" the blonde asks curiously.
[19:10] <Demedais> "Well. I was praying to Helm when this vision occured... but it was the same sort of prayer that I started doing to get rid of my spaciness. It's possible, therefore - at least I think - that Uatu's aura rubbed off on me enough to enable me to see this vision from Helm. It is possible that, since you spent more time near him, you'll get a clearer view..." He shakes his head, then. "I don't know. Anything's worth trying, I
[19:11] <Demedais> " I feel."
[19:14] <Shamal> "The Forest Queen prefers not to reveal things so openly to me," Shamal admits as she stands up. "But I shall keep your words in mind as I perform my nightly devotions." Giving Demedais a watery smile, she goes on, "Aren't stories filled with tales of brave paladins who slay dragons such as this one? They always make it sound so easy..."
[19:15] <Demedais> "The men who fight those dragons seem to be half-paladin, half-acrobat and all god." Demedais grumbles. "I'm afraid I don't meet 3/4 of the requirements."
[19:19] <Shamal> "We will just have to do our best... though I fear negotiation may be our only option." Sighing and shaking her head, she heads out, "Still, life goes on even in the face of adversity, and I need to ensure the patrols are still running smoothly after that scene - some people are bound to use the distraction as an excuse for breaking the law, and we can't let the small things slip us by."
[19:20] <Demedais> "Indeed. You have perhaps a better grasp of duty than I do." Demedais chuckles.
[19:21] <Shamal> "Either that or I'm trying to avoid facing the worse problem," the blonde admits self deprecatingly as she goes to figuratively whip the men into shape and ensure everything's running as smoothly as she can manage in readiness for the night shift.
[19:26] * Demedais sits alone, thinking for a bit, before going to seek out Oberuth.
[19:34] <Soda_Vampire> After a bit of footwork Demedais finsd Commander Oberuth. It's in a hallway, as he returns towards the meeting froom, dismissing a few pages. "Demedais," he asks, running a hand through his blonde hair, over his red cheeks.
[19:35] <Demedais> "I hate to bother you again without giving you much time to recoup, but... I believe it to be in our best interest to prepare an envoy to Valandia to go within the day." Demedais states simply.
[19:37] <Soda_Vampire> Oberuth nods plainly. "You're it, once I talk to Seira in a day or so, and also Shamal. Let's see if they research anything up first, though."
[19:38] <Demedais> "Indeed. Best to know what they can find." He bows a bit. "My apologies for disturbing you - go take a bit of rest. Shamal and I can handle matters here, sir."
[19:46] <Demedais> roll 1d20+3
[19:46] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+3 and gets 13."12 [1d20=10]

[Corwin]

[21:09] <Soda_Vampire> ---
[21:10] <Soda_Vampire> OOC: Going to be hitting the libraries full steam? Elaborate on what you're lookin for our any boundaries?
[21:12] * Seira intends to cross-reference the records for any and all mentions of Valandia and a dragon! She will also give special attention to passages about Valandia that mention the man Demedais had described.
[21:13] <Soda_Vampire> OOC: Taking ten has no particular time requirement over normal. You can take twenty, but that'll take a few days. Or you can roll and hope for it.
[21:13] <Seira> OOC: What's the roll?
[21:14] <Soda_Vampire> OOC: Knowledge: Arcana or Knowledge: Local, whichever is better. Local since you're researching a locally focused matter.
[21:14] <Seira> roll 1d20+10 they both are!
[21:14] * Hatbot --> "Seira rolls 1d20+10 they both are! and gets 25."12 [1d20=15]
[21:15] <Soda_Vampire> Seira hits the books! Amid bouts of reading, reading, chewing on a quill's end and more reading, she does find a few things of note:
[21:16] <Soda_Vampire> 1. There are mentions of a blue dragon in the mountains, very faint and hazy. References to references, that sort of thing. More modern ones don't describe a dragon there, but instead a growing Shocker Lizard population.
[21:18] <Soda_Vampire> 2. Kondrux is mentioned in a particular history text as the 'Terror of the Bay and Mountains, Lord until the Elven Reaches.' It doesn't mention what Kondrux is, however.
[21:21] <Soda_Vampire> 3. Dragons are rare, very rare. While old tales spoke of them in many ways; like the ballad of Kangap and Goldan, a gold and red dragon together, or the tales of the Black Four that took over an entire continent, or even lost fables of a dragon shining like crystal. However, real information is scarce.  In this area, the only past dragons noted are Kondrux, a strange, isolated blue dragon and Lesarp, a dragon of indeterminate type who lives 'somewhere past the fairest star'.
[21:23] * Seira pauses, wondering whether she had heard or seen a mention of a 'fairest star' before.
[21:25] <Soda_Vampire> OOC - Int check, I guess.
[21:25] <Seira> roll 1d20+5
[21:25] * Hatbot --> "Seira rolls 1d20+5 and gets 20."12 [1d20=15]
[21:27] <Seira> Recalling a text Berlioz had mentioned once, Seira peruses it for the details on the fairest star and the power it holds!
[21:32] <Soda_Vampire> Seira's able to dig up the notes Berli had which lead her to that book. It's an old book that mentions the power of the fairest star, a bit about the gnomes in passing. The power past the 'fairest star' is mentioned once more when you comb the book over, as:
[21:33] <Soda_Vampire> 'The fairest star in heaven once fell into the green mists.'
[21:38] * Seira leans back, sighing. She makes an index of the relevant texts for easier future reference, intending to visit the Countess afterwards.