013. "Poison?" "Assassination?!" "It can't be! Lord Salman is healthy!"

[Corwin]

[20:50] <Kokokokokokokoko> -------
[20:52] <Kokokokokokokoko> The trip back is one in the first gasps of spring. Past the first night away from Pilltain, warmer air begins to blow from the west and northern seas. Lyselle's counties are left without their true mistress once more, Balmuria approached. It seems like far too long when you return, gates guarded with six paired detachments of guardsmen. They wear bright, freshly polished breastplates, spears at attention.  They peer ahead as the part
[20:53] <Kokokokokokokoko> They peer ahead as the party approaches, but not a one breaks military formation, even in the late morning's rising warmth.
[20:53] <Seira> "We must have made it back in time," Seira comments.
[20:54] <Shamal> "We're probably just ahead of the high ups, if that's the reception committee," Shamal notes, giving the guards an almost whimsical salute as they approach the gates.
[20:56] * Lyselle nods, straightening a bit in her saddle and squaring herself. Formality was the same the kingdom over... "At least we won't be barging in."
[20:56] <Kokokokokokokoko> Biggs and Wedge are in this well kept group, all saluting stiffly. "Sirs!" They chorus, Wedge adding, "Have you heard," he says carefully, "Lord Salman is coming within a day or two. Commander Oberuth wants you to report right away."
[20:56] * Lyselle (~dragomirs@225-52-77-204.sptc.mnscu.edu) Quit (mrf. -=SysReset 2.53=-)
[20:57] * Shamal smiles to the familiar pair. "We were told before we left. Good thing we got back in time," she nods agreeably.
[20:57] <Berlioz> "... oh dear. Wonderful timing on us, indeed", the bard replies curtly.
[20:59] * Seira eyes the pair critically, but declines to comment, proceeding into the city.
[21:00] <Kokokokokokokoko> "Sirs!" The guards repeat as you head into the city. The front streets are clean - amazingly so. Even the dirt paths are smooth, the cobblestones polished recently. Young men sit at the sides in nice uniforms, even one with shovels that eye the horses passing by critically. As you enter a few peasants quickly come out and eye you, and while you get smiles and a few waves, there is an air of disappointment.
[21:01] <Shamal> "Sorry, Lord Salman's not here, yet," Shamal calls as she returns a wave. Those people are going to get awfully tired if they rush out everytime someone comes through the gates...
[21:03] <Kokokokokokokoko> "It's still the local heroes!"
[21:03] <Kokokokokokokoko> OOC - Gah.
[21:03] <Berlioz> "Although... if they're going to rush out every single time someone comes up, it surprises me that no wide-eyed kid has pulled any related pranks. My brother used to love those kinds of events for the sole sake of causing problems when he was young..."
[21:04] <Kokokokokokokoko> "It's still the local heroes!" One of the housewives calls, "Welcome home!"
[21:04] <Seira> Life is full of disappointment, Seira muses to herself, and glances at the others. "Shall we go report to the Commander at once, or take a bit of time to and meet anew at his office?" she asks.
[21:05] * Shamal blushes, "You're too kind," she nods to the woman calling them heroes, before glancing at Seira, "We were told to report at once, so we might as well head directly to the garrison."
[21:07] * Seira nods in consent, proceeding silently the rest of the way.
[21:08] * Lyselle (~dragomirs@225-52-77-204.sptc.mnscu.edu) has joined #dunes
[21:08] * ChanServ sets mode: +ao Lyselle Lyselle
[21:09] <Kokokokokokokoko> The trip back is without incident. On reaching the garrison, you find it cleaned and ready, in perfect state fo rinspection. Commander Oberuth is found in his official office - a stuffy room with a well stained and polished oaken desk, flags on either side of the room. Not a single window, but he stays in it nonetheless, wearing a breastplate and having a shield rest at his feet. His sword is belted to his waist, his face clean. "Oh,
[21:10] <Kokokokokokokoko> "Oh, good, good. At ease if you want to, you might not get a chance for a few days."
[21:10] <Shamal> "I've never seen Balmuria look so clean," Shamal observes cheerily as she settles into the commander's office.
[21:13] <Kokokokokokokoko> "I thought you'd prefer it more natural and less human tampered?" Oberuth observes, a few droplets of acid clinging to his words. "No, the reality of the situation is here, and mainly, it's called making sure that the ruler of the land is duly impressed."
[21:15] <Seira> "I believe he will be, Sir," Seira responds firmly.
[21:15] <Shamal> "Natural doesn't mean dirty... sir," Shamal replies, not all that enthused by his tone.
[21:15] <Kokokokokokokoko> "Yes, yes..." Commander Oberuth blows out a long breath, rubbing his temple. "Good. Anyway, go ahead and report. How was this mountain temple?"
[21:16] <Seira> "I received the divine inspiration I was seeking, Sir," Seira tells him, unable to keep a note of satisfaction out of her voice.
[21:20] * Lyselle tries to relax her nerves, the overbearing sense of formality wearing a bit on her nerves. Ah well. "We recieved varied information and direction from Helm," she adds with a bit more detail.
[21:20] <Kokokokokokokoko> "Well then?" Commander Oberuth inquires, "Did this yield information? Ah. Where does this lead?"
[21:22] <Shamal> "The implication seems to be that the God King of the gnomes may return," Shamal offers. "This would naturally have disastrous results for... more or less everyone."
[21:23] <Kokokokokokokoko> "Well. Yes, we'd need to do something severe about that. Any more detailed information on that?" Oberuth frowns.
[21:24] <Seira> "The Resorts seem to play a crucial role in this, Sir," Seira adds. "Either as the catalysts of his revival, or as tools of stopping him should he find another way. Helm told us that mortals are those who will decide the fate of things."
[21:26] <Kokokokokokokoko> "...One for us, then. Khardon holds the third," Oberuth nods shortly, thinking, "So by this, we have even more reason to find more of those. Any leads?"
[21:29] <Shamal> "Not yet," Shamal replies, not wanting to spread around knowledge of the shield until they're ready to take it themselves. It's safe where it is so long as no one learns of its presence.
[21:29] * Lyselle (~dragomirs@225-52-77-204.sptc.mnscu.edu) Quit (Ping timeout)
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[21:29] * ChanServ sets mode: +ao Lyselle Lyselle
[21:29] * Seira frowns, but remains silent.
[21:30] <Kokokokokokokoko> "Damnations..." Obertuh murmurs, "Alright, for now? Is there anything else to report? If not, go rest and prepare. Lord Salman's coming, and he's going to want to see you."
[21:31] * Seira salutes, and leaves to prepare as she is dismissed.
[21:31] <Shamal> "We did find a magic weapon, though not one any of us can safely use," Shamal volunteers. "It's an Unholy Glaive we liberated from its former fiendish owner... honestly, we're not quite sure what to do with it."
[21:32] <Kokokokokokokoko> "Fiendish? As in a monster from the Abyss? Hellspawn?" Oberuth blinks at that, "Dark, evil, demonic magic?"
[21:34] * Shamal nods. "Very very evil," she confirms. "It's not a typical enchantment, as such, but its a weapon that does terrific damage to the pure of heart, and can only be safely wielded by those of... flexible, morality."
[21:35] <Kokokokokokokoko> "What are you going to do with it, then? I don't like the thought of that weapon drifting around, frankly." Oberuth crosses his arms, scowling.
[21:36] <Shamal> "Nor do we - we can't exactly sell it and have it used against the virtuous, can we?" Shamal agrees. "We were hoping you might have some ideas."
[21:38] <Kokokokokokokoko> "It's best kept held somewhere or destroyed. I can't particularly let you sell it to the highest bidder, either." Sighing as he thinks a moment, "How do you price a demon's weapon?"
[21:39] <Shamal> "Presumably it would be worth as much as a holy relic, to a person with the appropriate mindset," Shamal volunteers. "It's a pity we have no nearby volcanoes to toss it into, all things considered."
[21:41] <Kokokokokokokoko> "Barring that...hmm. I will inquire with our coming superiors. It may be worthwhile to purchase it from  you and simply sit on it ourselves." Looking at each, "That's best done now, so go ahead and go rest if that's all."
[21:41] * Shamal nods, salutes, and departs!
[21:41] * Lyselle adds her salute, smiling faintly as she slips out.

[Corwin]

[21:45] <Kokokokokokokoko> -----
[21:49] <Kokokokokokokoko> A day of rest passes. The next morning the party is awoken by messengers. Grand messengers, clean faced and attractive men and women, bowing deeply and wearing well pressed uniforms. The message is the same at each, "Lord Salman arrived at dawn and wishes to meet with each of you." So the message goes out to the three heroes, only Seira mysteriously absent.
[21:50] <Kokokokokokokoko> OOC - More.
[21:52] <Kokokokokokokoko> Archbaron and Protector of the United Baronies Rickshaws Salman. The man that now leads the United Baronies, a fragment of the Malmuth Empire.  His body is severe, muscled. He wears plate mail despite his standing, a fierce, protective look on his face, black bearded.  The gold of the armor is sparse, only a few accents. (More)
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[21:54] * Hotaru-chan is now known as Lyselle
[21:54] <Kokokokokokokoko> He stands in the garrison's meeting room, cleaned and with a new, restored table. Besides two stone faced, official guards that stand at attention in the back, he is alone. He awaits, as the three party members enter...
[21:58] * Shamal strolls in just a bit nervously, attired in her own uniform of a long tailed green jacket over a white tunic, with a darker green flared skirt down to her calves. "Lord Salman," she bows on bent knee, looking downwards. "It is an honour."
[22:01] * Berlioz breathes deeply, and deeply bows to Lord Salman, knee-bent, head lowered. "We are deeply honored by your presence, my lord."
[22:05] * Lyselle enters and slips down in time with her comrades, bowing to her direct liege and military commander, "My lord, it's an overwhelming honor to meet oyu," she murmurs, blonde hair long and ordered, looking down.
[22:06] <Kokokokokokokoko> "Rise, lieutenants," Lord Salman instructs, voice gruff, the rumble of a hundred battles under it. "Your commanders have sent nothing but glowing remarks about your aptitudes and how you excel at your duties."
[22:09] <Shamal> "My Lord is too kind," Shamal replies politely as she smoothly rises to her feet.
[22:10] <Kokokokokokokoko> "Now then," Salman goes on, "Of your activities, there are those that have proven your competence and those that have also stirred our attentions. The Resorts and the gnomes. Hellman has told me what you have told him, so I ask of you - do you feel that you can continue to investigate this matter and do so well?"
[22:14] <Shamal> "Powerful forces also seek the Resorts, but I believe we can and must continue on the path set before us," Shamal affirms. "It is my hope that each step on the journey will better prepare us for more difficult challenges that await in the future."
[22:16] <Berlioz> "I have both the interests of Balmuria and my own scholarly glee in mind when I say the pursuit of the Resorts and their history won't leave our long-term schedules anytime soon. Even if slowly, we will steadily keep up towards this. It's far too interesting to let it go, anyway."
[22:19] * Lyselle nods, folding her hands. "I believe that given the time of our pursuit of these itmes and secrets, we should be able to keep par with our enemies," she agrees, straightening confidently.
[22:21] <Kokokokokokokoko> "Very well then," Lord Salman agrees, "I bestow on you this task, as servants of our nation: Amid your other duties, pursue the Resorts and the gnomes. Now, come forth and kneel." He stands up, going to his belt. A heavy warmace hangs at his belt as well as a sword, he chooses the latter and draws it forth.
[22:22] * Shamal kneels once more, head down.
[22:23] * Lyselle follows Shamal down onto her knee, eyes downcast and waiting.
[22:23] * Berlioz follows suit alongside Lyselle, his eyes attently fixed towards the floor.
[22:25] <Kokokokokokokoko> "Our young nation still lacks many of the trappings of the old. Our traditions are our own, but they are still being made. For service in stopping a plague of undeath, for valiantry and pursuing magical artifacts, for dedicated duties above the call any normal person could obtain?" His sword goes out, the cool metal touched to the forehead of each. "I hereby create the Order of the Crimson Star, the order of merit for those who excel
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[22:26] * ChanServ sets mode: +ao Hotaru-chan Hotaru-chan
[22:27] <Kokokokokokokoko> "I hereby create the Order of the Crimson Star, the order of merit for those who excel in the Crimson Guard. Who better than those who came first and have exemplified our wishes for the Guard? I hereby grant you the right to a medal in the shape of a red star and the right of being known as honorable in the eyes of our nation."
[22:29] * NeremWorld (~Nerem@pool-71-170-181-108.dllstx.fios.verizon.net) Quit (Ping timeout)
[22:29] * Lyselle (~dragomirs@225-52-77-204.sptc.mnscu.edu) Quit (Ping timeout)
[22:29] * Hotaru-chan (~dragomirs@225-52-77-204.sptc.mnscu.edu) Quit (-=SysReset 2.53=-)
[22:32] <Shamal> "Thank you, my Lord," Shamal says gratefully, still looking down as she awaits permission to rise again. "I only hope our example can inspire our comrades to likewise excel in your eyes."
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[22:39] * ChanServ sets mode: +ao Lyselle Lyselle
[22:46] * Lyselle remains kneeled, wishing the vocabulary for acceptance speeches wasn't so limited. "We are honored immeasurably by the accolades laid upon us, my lord, and we will fulfill all the duties and responsibilities laid with them as an example to all allies."
[22:47] <Kokokokokokokoko> "Well spoken. This evening will be a ball, where in we will holding meetings and honor. I hereby invite each of you to come. Rise now." So inviting, Lord Salman sits.
[22:48] * Berlioz slowly rises, retaining a solemn quality to his expression, as if waiting for the next announcement.
[22:50] * Shamal stands up once more, though remains where she is since they haven't been dismissed yet. 'Wait... I don't have any clothes suitable for a ball... How am I going to get a dress with this short notice?!' Masterfully she manages to keep her expression clear of such thoughts.
[22:55] <Kokokokokokokoko> "Well then. Until the evening, you may leave." Lord Salman speaks, but stops. "Oh, and on another matter. Your friend Seira will not be with you for a few weeks. Business requiring her elseware have occured."
[22:55] * Lyselle rises gracefully, stopping almost in a freeze at that invitiation. She flows from there into a half curtsy, smiling. "I would be most flattered to attend," she ascents, smiling faintly.
[22:56] <Shamal> "Would it be improper of us to ask what has detained Seira?" Shamal asks, trying to think if she knows any tailors in town.
[22:58] <Kokokokokokokoko> "She is on a mission for the good of the United Baronies, but it takes her away from us for a time." Lord Salman speaks strongly, "Hm. As common soldiers still? I hereby grant you 75 gold coins to purchase suitable clothes." Shamal knows a few here and there, they're certainly common enough.
[23:01] <Shamal> "My Lord is too generous, by far," Shamal smiles gratefully. She doesn't so much need the money after recent adventures, but it's certainly appreciated.
[23:02] <Kokokokokokokoko> "Until then, you may go," Lord Salman dismisses you, to the point.
[23:03] * Shamal snaps off an almost perfect salute to Lord Salman before she turns about and departs.
[23:03] * Lyselle curtsies again, smiling thankfully as she departs. She certainly didn't need the money...she probably would need to keep an eye on her companion's chocies, though. The burden of living with the lower classes. Far outstripped by its benefits!
[23:05] <Shamal> As soon as they're safely outside, Shamal sighs and deflates, turning to Berlioz and Lyselle. "Well, any ideas on where Seira's gone off to? I have noticed the commander has been speaking privately to her after our briefings a lot more often, lately."
[23:07] * Lyselle shakes her head, frowning now out of the presence of her feudal overlord. "Not really, no," she admits, shrugging. "Maybe they're having an affair?" she suggests in a conspiratory tone, rolling her eyes.
[23:08] * Berlioz folds his arms, sighing. "I don't know very well myself... but I wouldn't be completely surprised if it was something regarding elves."
[23:09] <Berlioz> "Either that or what Lyselle said", the bard snickers. "I'd be predictably less corteous if I came up with the jab first, however."
[23:09] <Shamal> "The elf thing is... probably more likely," Shamal decides after a moment of apparently serious thought.
[23:12] * Lyselle snorted softly, making a flippant wave and mock smirking. "A superior officer drawing a young and exotic half-elf into secluded rooms away from prying eyes? Where's your imagination?" she insists, trying to not crack, though snickering softly none the less.
[23:15] * Berlioz giggles lightly. "I think I've seen way too many low-brow dystic poems talking about the same thing, Lyselle."
[23:15] <Shamal> "I suppose it's always the ones you least suspect..." Shamal mutters, nodding and playing along.
[23:17] * Lyselle just shrugs, her smile settling. "Mmm...anyway, do either of you need help picking out ah...clothes?" she asks lightly, almost hesitating. "I guess you could've been to this sort of thing before, but neither of you seem the sort..."
[23:18] <Shamal> "That obvious?" Shamal blushes weakly. "I'm hoping I can even find a tailor at this short notice. None of my clothes are suitable for a ball."
[23:18] * Berlioz rolls his eyes, but his expressions settles quickly into a more light-hearted note. "I'm not totally out of the nobility loop, Lyselle. I've been to noble gatherings before. That said, my scholar-type rags aren't particularly appropriate for this kind of event, so... yes, help would be appreciated."
[23:21] <Lyselle> "You're a druid, Shamal..." Lyselle coughs lightly. "The ah...reputation of avoiding such situations sort of precedes you," she offers lightly, shrugging. "As for good Berlioz...I suspected fashions in Malmuth would be considered quite offensive here even if he was experienced in that sort of thing..." she nods, casting between them both with her eyes. "I honestly can't give much advice for men, though."
[23:23] <Berlioz> "I'm not picky, and I trust your common sense. As long as you don't try to frill me in a dress, we're golden", the bard shrugs lightly, a faint smile in his face.
[23:25] * Lyselle gives Berlioz a hurt, mock innocent look, batting her eyelashes at the southern bard. "You wouldn't suspect me of that, would you?"
[23:27] * Berlioz snickers, tsking to the countess blonde. "I'd definitely expect Seira to try, and I do not know what do you do for fun. I'm just being cautious!"
[23:28] <Shamal> "It's not so much that I avoid them as... well, they never come up, I suppose," Shamal offers hesitantly. "Anyway, I'd appreciate any help."
[23:31] * Lyselle just shakes her head, taking Shamal by the hand. "Well, I can do that," she agrees, smiling and leading her fellow blonde towards the more affluent market districts. "Don't worry."
[23:35] <Berlioz> "I'd say getting Shamal ball-worthy wouldn't even be particularly difficult", the bard remarks rather blankly.
[23:37] <Shamal> "The only dancing I normally do is, um... well, not the kind you usually see in a ballroom," Shamal replies nervously as she follows Lyselle. "But it's not required to dance, right? I can just, er... show up?"
[23:39] * Berlioz bobs his head, trying to hide a snicker. "Well, you even can decline dances. Not sure how well would that reflect on your social performance there, however. I'd kneejerk it as 'not astoundingly'."
[23:40] <Shamal> "Well hopefully no one will ask me to dance," the blonde nods her head sternly. "Unless he's really handsome..." she adds with a slight chuckle.
[23:41] <Lyselle> "...Oh dear, do I need to give you dancing lessons, too?" Lyselle asks after a moment, pausing to lok back at Shamal. "I wasn't terribly good at it either, but...well, yes, we could just decline...hmm."
[23:43] <Shamal> "Maybe I can figure it out if I just watch other people first?" Shamal wonders. "I mean, it's not like I'm slow on my feet, and if my partner leads then it might be okay?"
[23:45] <Berlioz> "Um. Dancing requires a bit more synergy and dedication than that, Shamal. Watching for a few minutes is not much better than going in blindfolded, and you'd definitely step on a few dancing toes."
[23:48] <Shamal> "If only there was some... dancing, spell?" Shamal laments at Berlioz's confidence sapping words.
[23:49] * Lyselle nods, looking a touch worried. "It's ah..best to practice without shoes on," she adds, smiling a bit. "Well...we could try to work on it enough to keep from being embarrassed?"
[23:50] * Kokokokokokokoko is now known as Kowork
[23:50] <Berlioz> "A basic one-two could at least work. We're just aiming to make a presentable frame here, nobody in the ball expects us to be dancing queens. I can be the practice dummy, if needed."
[23:50] <Shamal> "Yes, let's see if we can get someone to make clothes in time for it and then practice for the rest of the day until the ball?" Shamal nods, hoping that the tailor's aren't all too busy to take a last minute rushjob for her.
[23:55] <Lyselle> "Don't worry so mmuch, I can even help out if they're really pressed," Lyselle offers, smiling a bit more. "A noblewoman's required to learn some things, even in a place like Armasea."

[Corwin]

[20:12] <Kotono> ------------
[20:21] <Kotono> So the night of the grand ball has arrived! A large hall has been rented - Waukeen's own grand hall, fountains burbling and gushing pure water out. The walls are bedeckoned with silks and tapestries, tables of foods laid forth. Here as music plays, a full orchestra in the rear, the dancing goes on. Dozens of people, all dressed in rich clothes and fancy jewelry. A shining banquet of the best and brightest of Balmuria and the United Baronies! (
[20:23] <Kotono>  (More)
[20:25] <Kotono> Gone are the priests of Waukeen largely, instead familiar faces. Countess Stronger lingers by a bowl of punch, chatting up a dashing young man as they laugh together. You see Commander Oberuth, hanging back towards a wall, sword still on his belt, even as he wears noble finery. Peeking out from a side door is Mia, wistfully looking on. A small delegation of Malmuthians mingle politely as well, some eyes on them, but one in particular catches B
[20:26] <Kotono> Berlioz's eye. A sharp, engaging man, one whom he knows and escorted. (More)
[20:28] <Kotono> Entertainment comes from many sources. A bard sings with the music, a beautiful woman caroling great songs of a faraway kingdom and it's legendary heroes. Dancing happens int he center, many wearing slim masks of white or gold as they go about.  Some watch a narrow faced woman with close cropepd blonde hair, a hawk answering her commands, landing on her shoulder and yet not tearing her white brocade dress. Above it all, at the back, Lord Salma
[20:28] * Loligoth|AFK is now known as Lyselle
[20:29] <Kotono>  Lord Salman sits on a deep back throned, hands folded as he watches it all.
[20:29] <Kotono> *throne
[20:34] * Shamal looks and feels rather out of place, attired in a nice ballgown of forest green that she nonetheless feels would be torn to shreds if she so much as looked at a bush, making her altogether uncomfortable in her flimsy attire.
[20:34] <Shamal> It doesn't help that the only jewellery she's wearing is her magical gnomish amulet - sure it's probably worth more than any other jewellery here, but it doesn't look so special compared to the finery on display. "I'd have brought Laika if I'd known animals were allowed," she mutters, glancing at the hawk.
[20:37] * Berlioz sedately wanders the luxurious halls, probably not catching any fancy looks. While the attire provided by Lyselle's crafty resources is perfectly adequate to such an occasion, it's just a typically well-sewn set of clothes with a few artsy touches - unlike the borderline eye-devouring ostentation some of the guests provided. The bard fixes his monocle, observing the minutiae of the ball as people wander back and forth.
[20:40] <Kotono> The hawk is blue banded and quite pretty, one can note. The woman controlling him entertains and calls, "The lure of nature is mighty!" she proclaims. A few people look, one or two even turning to bow or curtsey.
[20:42] <Lyselle> Lyselle blends a bit better into the lower nobility, though she hides a level of discomfort similar to Shamal or Berlioz. Her upbringing was hardly the most fancy, and her time in the military didn't do much for her experience in wearing things like the garnet satin gown and small pieces of precious jewelry that adorn her now.
[20:42] <Lyselle> Gold and red outline her surpriusingly delicate figure, some of the embroidery along the lines of her gown even done herself over the years, and accompanied by cascade of bright gold hair down her back as she t least tries to quietly mingle.
[20:45] <Kotono> As Berlioz walks along, he does get a bit of attention. There are a lot of people about...
[20:46] <Berlioz> roll 1d20+4
[20:46] * Kotono sets mode: +v Reiko-chan
[20:46] <Kotono> Lyselle gets looks and interest, here and there. Including from the dashing young, black haired man that Countess Stronger is chatting with, getting her to glare at his turned head.
[20:46] <Berlioz> roll 1d20+4
[20:46] <Reiko-chan> 1,0Berlioz rolled :1,0 1d20+4 --> 1,0[ 1d20=15 ]12,0{19}
[20:46] * Shamal tags along with Lyselle, really not knowing what else to do here. She's tempted to try and talk shop with the hawkwoman, but she seems to be busy, and Shamal doesn't want to interrupt the performance. However, she does spot Mia as they circle the room, and excuses herself to Lyselle, "Excuse me, I'm just going to say hello to Mia," she tells her friend, heading over to the side door the acolyte is peeking out of.
[20:47] <Kotono> Mia eeeps lightly as someone approaches, but as she starts to quickly close the door? She stops and stares, "Ooooh!" she mouths, "S-shamal? Wow, that's got to be a 100 gold dress you're wearing, and you look it! I didn't know you were nobility!"
[20:48] <Berlioz> roll 1d20+1 laf
[20:48] <Reiko-chan> 1,0Berlioz rolled :1,0 1d20+1 1,0laf --> 1,0[ 1d20=20 ]12,0{21}
[20:49] * Lyselle nods quietly to Shamal as she slips away, moving slowly away from Stronger's chosen prey. She didn't want to bait another woman's hunt, and definitely not when it's the main magic supplier in town... So she drifts away, keeping a general lookout for the direction of things, or people she might know, besides the obvious.
[20:51] <Shamal> "Hello, Mia," Shamal smiles, a bit uncomfortable at the commentary on her expensive attire. "Um, seventy five, actually. Lord Salman wanted the Crimson Guard to be looking their best, I suppose..." she fidgets a bit with the skirt, "Honestly, I doubt I'll ever wear something like this again, since I'm not a noble, and don't think I can fake it as well as some can," she concludes with a glance over towards Stronger.
[20:51] <Kotono> As Countess Stronger takes the arm of the wayward man and starts to give him far less complimentary words, Lyselle mingles in! A Malmuthian glances at her, wearing a proper if dressed down military uniform. He looks bored, sipping a glass of wine. A few others look at her, including - oh. Khardon comes out from a side door, adjusting his collar and peering at Lyselle
[20:51] <Kotono> .
[20:52] <Kotono> "Oooh, I'd buy it from you for...oh yeah, wait. I'm broke," she sighs and deflates like an old party balloon. "Speaking of, though?" Suddenly she smiles, "Stay right there, alright?"
[20:53] * Berlioz squints his eyes, taking a rather alarmed look towards the back corner, and rubs his forehead in disgruntled surprise. Someone rather brutally familiar seems to have joined the fray? The bard shakes his head, and tries to stealthily make his way in the direction of the familiar silhouette.
[20:54] <Kotono> Berlioz heads away from the others, clinging to the wall. Lord Salman nods solemnly to Berlioz as he comes in that area, expression gruff and composed, but watching. So back he heads, away from the others...OOC - PM.
[20:54] * Shamal waits by the side door for Mia, certainly not having anything better to do!
[20:55] <Kotono> Soon enough she returns, waving a tiny little vial full of sea green liquid. "No, it's not sea water," she chides instantly, "It's paying you back. Don't ask how I got it, alright?" With a nice smile, she presents it to Shamal. "One magic potion!"
[20:56] <Shamal> "The fact that I can't ask doesn't reassure me," Shamal nonetheless smiles as she accepts the potion. "What does it do?"
[20:57] * Lyselle stops, raising an eyebrow at Khardon. Certainly turning him down would do her no good, and he seems to need a companion. Though not THAT companionship, oh no. So Lyselle waits, a garnet and gold figure of noble pedigree waiting for her superior officer.
[20:58] * Berlioz leaves a light salute to Salman - past that, the bard pointlessly adjusts his monocle, approaching the corner shadows. The face seems more and more recognizable, to the point that he can actually infer the presence without fear of making a mistake. Berlioz raises an eyebrow, subtly waving in the direction of that person...
[20:58] <Kotono> "It lets you breath water. It should be worth a couple hundred gold." Passing it onto Shamal, "It's supposed to be very high power as potions go."
[20:59] <Kotono> Khardon approaches, a slanted smile showing as he bows. "Countess," he infers politely, "My, at this rate you'll sweep all the men's hearts away, before being promoted to General and Goddess!"
[21:01] * Lyselle politely curtsies with a small flourish, smiling dryly, and trying hard to not roll her eyes. "M'lord is simply filled with flattery to make a poor yuong woman blush tonight," she answers, raising an eyebrow. "Is M'lord sure he wouldn't be more interested in other companions?"
[21:01] <Shamal> "Um... yes," Shamal blinks in surprise. "That's actually worth far more than the scrolls I gave you. Um, if you need a supplier for scrolls, I think I'll have to give you a discount." She moves to put the potion in her pouch before pausing as her hand meets empty air.
[21:01] <Shamal> "Blast, no pockets, no pouches... how do people function in these clothes?" she asks, appearing somewhat mortified as she makes sure no one (besides Mia) is looking and stuffs the small vial down her cleavage and out of sight.
[21:03] <Kotono> "I suppose I could sweep your dear friend Shamal off her feet..." Khardon considers, before chuckling. "Oh yes, I apologise. How rude of me to discuss open plans with you like that. I merely wish to ask you a dance, M'Queen." He bows back, offering a hand out.
[21:04] <Kotono> "The point isn't to function, it's to be seen!" Mia says reproachfully, "Since if you're wearing those, you're loaded and should be seen! But no matter - that potion's paid for itself a few times..heh, heh..." Mia looks away, "I'll remember that for later and...go out and have some fun! You're wide open and get to be here! WE're all supposed to be meditating tonight now."
[21:07] * Lyselle pauses, touching a finger to her lips for dramatic effect as she considers Khardon pointedly. "A simple Countess of a mountain estate hardly deserves the title 'Queen'," she repraoches, smiling and offering her arm. "But I must bow to the occasion and submit to M'lord's request."
[21:07] <Shamal> "Far be it from me to distract you from your observances," Shamal chuckles, sketching a curtsey to Mia. "I suppose I'll... er, mingle, now," she nods, wandering off and deciding to get some punch to help herself relax. It better have alcohol in it.
[21:08] <Kotono> "I talk of the future, that's all," Khardon takes the arm, leading Lyselle to the ball and where the dancing is.  The dancers move a bit to allow the two easy entry, a couple of women blushing and men smiling at Khardon and Lyselle, respectively. "Now then, m'lady...." Khardon murmurs, "How agile are you?"
[21:11] <Kotono> As you go to the punchbowl, you see Countess Stronger with her hands on her hips, wearing a striking red gown. A young man shrugs and says, "Well...they are, sorry," he mutters, "You're the one that insisted! It's because I'm not one of your little groupies that you dragged me in-" He cuts himself off as Shamal approaches, bowing to her. "If you excuse me, ladies."
[21:12] <Lyselle> "More agile than most, but ill practiced," Lyselle answers in a near whisper, staying closer to Khardon, and trying ehr best to pay the other dancers no mind.
[21:13] * Shamal blinks at that exchange, before deciding it's best to pretend she heard nothing. Instead she gives the countess a weak little smile before focusing on getting herself something to drink.
[21:13] <Kotono> "Then just hang on," he grins, taking Lyselle's arm! With a spin the two go together, Lyselle brieftly picked up and twirled!
[21:14] <Kotono> Glaring at him as he leaves, Stronger ignores Shamal's effort and joins her. There are a few decanters of dark brown liquid besides the punch, notably. "So. You look uncomfortable," she says, "Suits me just fine now. Stupid man, why is the one you can't get interested in you that'sthe one you like?"
[21:16] * Lyselle restrains a moment of surprise, doing just that as she's taken for a dance, rather than trying something and tripping Khardon up, she quite simply goes along for the ride.
[21:16] <Shamal> "Because you like the challenge?" the blonde offers, thinking for a moment before deciding that this definitely calls for something stronger, and getting herself a small measure of the dark brown liquid. It's only by the time the glass reaches her lips that she realises she probably committed a faux pas by not having a servant pour it, but if it's just her and the fake Countess here it probably doesn't matter.
[21:19] <Kotono> The twirl gets attention, a few dancers stepping away to give you ample space. As Lyselle lands, Khardon lunges close, passing by her. "Flashy, but it's a good start.  Try something - better than the Queen of the Dance gets the attention than I, hm?"
[21:20] <Kotono> "Hmph," Stronger mutters something under her breath about that, "Speaking of challenges, how did your trip out go? I heard from the grapevine that you'd been sent out somewhere. Oh, and is Seira here?"
[21:20] <Kotono> roll 1d20+12
[21:20] <Reiko-chan> 1,0Kotono rolled :1,0 1d20+12 --> 1,0[ 1d20=6 ]12,0{18}
[21:22] <Shamal> "Seira's went off on some special solo mission," Shamal replies, deciding there's no harm in telling Stronger, since Seira is here apprentice after all. "As for the trip, it was quite productive actually," she smiles genially, swirling around the liquid in her glass. "We fought actual devils, and I found a nice wand of lightning bolt."
[21:24] <Kotono> "Devils? Lemures or something notable? I've seen them a fewtimes, never had to fight anything too strong directly. Demons, on the other hand..." Stronger shivers, "Anyway, a wand of lighting? I'm trying to update my own inventory, too, but...wait, wait wait. Devil sand magic? Where'd you find all of that?"
[21:27] <Shamal> "I'm not as familiar with extraplanar creatures as I am of natural ones, but there were lots of small flabby things about yay high," Shamal holds a hand around her waist level, "And two human sized ones with beards that used glaives. It was up in the mountains to the North. So what demons have you met before?" she asks, deciding to get Stronger talking about herself rather than asking probing questions.
[21:29] <Lyselle> "I think you're overstimating my experience at court, M'lord," Lyselle murmrus, pulling Khardon around into a less extravagant dance that's more familiar to her, and somewhat eassier on her nerves.
[21:30] <Kotono> "Lemures - I've fought them. On a guess, those sound like bearded devils." As she talks, "Oh yes, yes-?" She stops as there is a tinking of a glass, the music stopping. In the sudden relative silence it carries quite well.
[21:31] <Kotono> Khardon follows along, grinning, "Well then, we'll just do the best we-" He stops as the sound of a glass being tinked is heard, the music in the background ceasing.
[21:31] * Shamal turns at the noise, reflexively straightening up a bit.
[21:34] * Lyselle stops with her dance partner, looking around for the source of it, and what might have interrupted it all.
[21:37] <Kotono> Lord Salman stands up, tapping his wine glass. "Attention," he calls, "For we have gathered here today for many reasons. One of them is to honor those of bra...bra..." Lord Salman pauses abruptly, face darkening. The wineglass slips from his hand, shattering onto the floor! A moment later he follows, going face down like a bag of stones.
[21:38] <Shamal> Shamal's glass drops from her hands, the blonde abruptly bolting straight towards her liege - if he's been poisoned, she's probably the best healer in the room, after all.
[21:40] <Lyselle> "..." Lyselle's jaw tightens instead of dropping, but she feels a sudden desire to have her sword back in her hand with the death of her ultimate feudal lord, starting to move in that direction all the same as Shamal. No reason other than instinct, but she is a soldier, after all.
[21:41] * Berlioz appears rushing towards the fallen king, as if rising from a shadowy corner. This is -the worst time possible- for that.
[21:42] * Shamal attempts to diagnose what's happened before anything else - he better not be already dead!
[21:42] <Kotono> The gasps are as one, nobles and others staring in outright horror. Commander Obertuh moves like lighting as well, past so many stunned people and to Lord Salman's side! Shamal and Lyselle do the same, as does Berlioz! "Shamal!" OBeruth snaps quickly.
[21:42] <Kotono> OOC - Healing chekc.
[21:42] <Shamal> roll 1d20+8
[21:42] <Reiko-chan> 1,0Shamal rolled :1,0 1d20+8 --> 1,0[ 1d20=10 ]12,0{18}
[21:43] <Kotono> His breathing is pained, blood coming from his mouth, but Shamal can't identify the affliction.
[21:43] <Kotono> "Poison?" One voice calls, another saying, "Assassination?!" A third cries, "It can't be! Lord Salman is healthy!" Talk erupts like a volcano, gushing out all around you.
[21:44] <Shamal> If he's alive there's hope! "Mielikki, your faithful servant pleads to you, speed this noble man's healing from whatever ails him!" she chants, hand glowing green as she places it on Salman's forehead, casting Lesser Vigour.
[21:45] <Kotono> The magic makes the blood vanish, mending him! He's still out, and more blood comes as he coughs, lesser spurts that don't seem to be dying down. Oberuth is up, calling, "Seal the exits! Call the full  guard!" he instructs, "No one in our out, no ships leave this town!"
[21:46] <Shamal> "Get the Waukeenar - my spell isn't enough, but they'll have potions of healing and curing!" Shamal orders, casting Detect Magic on the off chance he was struck with a spell - the aura should still be lingering if so.
[21:48] * Berlioz kneels to support Shamal, muttering a few solemn dystics himself to cast Cure Moderate Wounds on Salman.
[21:49] <Berlioz> roll 2d8+5 HEEEEEEEEEEEEAL
[21:49] <Reiko-chan> 1,0Berlioz rolled :1,0 2d8+5 1,0HEEEEEEEEEEEEAL --> 1,0[ 2d8=10 ]12,0{15}
[21:50] <Kotono> There is no lingering magic. As Shamal casts people run about in a tizzy, screams and noise! A few people run off to do what Shamal requests, as healing magic pelts Lord Salman's body! It brings color to his cheeks for a fw eseconds, before it is leeched away from the inside, going white!
[21:51] * Berlioz grimaces. "This is not good. It seems like whatever was inflicted on Lord Salman is directly draining his life!"
[21:52] <Shamal> "No magic. He's been poisoned," Shamal states authoritatively as all their healing efforts seem to be reversed. "Get the Waukeenar," she repeats, "We need a spell or potion to neutralise poison!"
[21:52] <Kotono> He's coming, running in naught by what looks to be a prayer robe, unusually plain. His face is grim as he appraoches, nodding briefly to Shamal. "Poison?" he asks in a moment, starting to swiftly check him over.
[21:53] <Kotono> roll 1d20+11
[21:53] <Reiko-chan> 1,0Kotono rolled :1,0 1d20+11 --> 1,0[ 1d20=9 ]12,0{20}
[21:57] <Kotono> As he does, the color drains from  his face. HE begins to chant words, "Let the power granted to us by She flow forth. Save the profit of this life, return to him what has been stolen! Neutralise this poison!"
[21:58] <Kotono> The magic does not mend hsi cheeks, no make him breath any easier - but he nods nonetheless. "It's done. Thank Waukeen for the fortune of having that memorised," he allows. Lord Salman's breathing very slowly steadies, but he loosk so weak, so ill, so drained.
[22:00] <Shamal> "Do you have a restoration spell memorised?" Shamal asks, knowing that normal healing spells are useless against the sort of damage poison does to a person. A pity, since she can even cast the lesser variant herself, but so rarely prepares it. She at least resolves to make a scroll for it when she has the time.
[22:01] <Kotono> "No." He shakes his head once, as more acolytes come. Mia is among them, a horrified look on her face as they cluster. Behind you nobles stare, horrified and scared. "We can get him to a safe room, and I can cast what healing magic I do have, but from what I think..." he shakes his head, "Do you know how it was ingested?"
[22:03] * Shamal shakes her head. "We should check any food or drink that was prepared for Lord Salman, and detain all involved in its preperation and serving," she decides. "I can cast Lesser Restoration, but I won't be able to prepare it until dawn. Hopefully things will keep until then."
[22:05] * Berlioz remembers a silent servant delivering a glass of wine to Salman shortly before he fell, and tries to work a few connections. "Hm. I saw Salman drinking a glass of wine a short while before being stricken. We may want to check who arranged the drinks first, and look for leads on that."
[22:05] <Kotono> Glancing down at theshattered wineglass, "That wouldnt' be a bad place to start," he observes. "Speaking of...yes.  You did?"
[22:07] * Berlioz nods. "I wasn't far from the throne when the drink was delivered."
[22:09] <Kotono> "Then what did the servant look like? Where did they go?" The head priests shakes his head, "It's not my business now." he says, as he instructs the servants to carry Lord Salman off. Behind you, you see Commadner Oberuth with a detachment of guards, getting nobles questioned and escorted away. Countess Stronger is ignoring that, rubber necking from a little away.
[22:11] <Shamal> "Nobody touch anything," Shamal gestures at the shattered glass and any other utensils Salman had in the area, before she slips over to Stronger. "I don't suppose you have Detect Poison memorised by any chance, do you?" she asks quietly.
[22:12] <Kotono> "Hm?" As Shamal approaches, she shakes her head, "That would be practical, lucky and nice. Of course not," she snorts, a look of concern, "Oh dammit, you'd better catch them and make sure Lord Salman makes it through this."
[22:13] * Berlioz shakes his head. "All I know about that servant is that it's a female. She was rather silent, and I didn't get to look detailedly at her features."
[22:14] <Shamal> "I'll prepare it in the morning..." Shamal nods. "Don't worry, he's in good hands." With that she returns to the scene of the crime. "Do you think you'd recognise her if you saw her again?" she asks Berlioz.
[22:16] * Lyselle just watches and mutters a few curses, unable to help out in this realm of things, or really help out at all until it comes to hurting people...
[22:16] <Kotono> As the guards work, Commander Oberuth approaches, "I don't think I need to tell you what your assignment is," he speaks, voice low. "As of now until the crisis is over, you have full authority to do what you feel you need to in pursuit of the fucker that did this."
[22:16] * Berlioz ponders, trying to remember. "I can't say exactly. She was terribly non-descript. I do remember a few features - short, plain brown hair, mostly. However, other than that, I can't guarantee anything, although it's worth a shot.
[22:18] * Shamal nods to Obureth before returning to Berlioz. "Go see the guards who're gathering all the servants together and see if you can spot her... hopefully we locked the place down before she got out." She leans closer, whispering, "Don't be shy about doing any mindreading, too."
[22:20] * Berlioz nods calmly. "I'll have my resources ready for this, then. I'm off to investigate this particular matter, then."
[22:21] * Lyselle just nods, clenching and unclenching her hands. "We'll have to wait for that to be finished..." she murmurs, frowning darkly. "The entrances into this building are all closed, aren't they?"
[22:22] <Kotono> "They are now," Oberuth agrees as Berlioz goes off. OOC - #evil, Berli.
[22:26] <Shamal> "I can cast a spell tomorrow to definitively check for poison, so we need to make sure no one interferes with any of the evidence," Shamal explains. "I can also hopefully speed Lord Salman's recovery. For now, though..." she shrugs weakly. "Magic is all about preperation, and I wasn't prepared for this."
[22:27] <Kotono> "Bastards..." Oberuth growls low in his throat, slamming a fist into his side. "Of course we were. No one would've suspected this. Now, I wonder who did it and why."
[22:28] <Shamal> "Malmuth is always the obvious suspect," Shamal mutters quietly, "But we mustn't jump to conclusions. Hopefully Berlioz can find something from the servants."
[22:30] * Lyselle nods slowly, folding her arms. "Subsequent invasion preparations would be a clear clue, but we can't quite even be sure of that."
[22:30] <Kotono> A pause as Oberuth thinks, before taking his sword out and passing it to Lyselle. "Here."  It's presented hilt first, "I can't chase them myself, with Lord Salman down, I have to rune verything. If you don't get a chance to get a better one, use this."
[22:36] * Lyselle tries to not flinch, reaching up to take Oberuth's sword carefully, bowing. "Sir...thank you," she struggles out, looking a bit more worried all despite having a reassuring sword in her hand. "I will endeavor to sheath it in the blood of these assassins," she promises, hoping to not sound TOO bloodthirsty.
[22:37] <Kotono> "Just return it in one piece. The assassin probably isn't a goblin, but it should still do better than any other sword." Oberuth takes a breath out, "By all the Gods, live up to what you just said. But take them alive if possible." With one more curt nod, the Commander leaves.
[22:38] * Lyselle takes a deep, claming breath, pushing down her subsequent feelings. Helm protect her if she lost it on this... She nods, collecting herself behind the necessities of duty, rallying to what will be a hard time in front of her.
[22:40] * Shamal collars a guard and tells him to make sure no one touches any of the items around where Salman fell. "Come on, Lyselle, let's check all the exits," she suggests.
[22:41] * Lyselle nods, adjusting the magical ring she thankfully remembered, and adjusting her grip to the balance of Oberuth's weapon. "Alright," she agrees, falling in with Shamal.
[22:42] <Kotono> The guard nods and does so as Shamal goes to check the exits with Lyselle. The front one is triply guarded and not in need of obvious checking. There are a few other doors out - one to the side, leading to the back streets. It looks like it's been opened recently.
[22:42] <Kotono> It's a plain door in the wall, away from all the glitz of the main hall of Waukeen.
[22:44] <Shamal> "I really wish I'd brought Laika, now," Shamal mutters, deciding to look around the door, both inside and outside. If a fake servant left via here right after an assassination attempt, maybe they took off their conspicuous servant's uniform to draw less attention outside?
[22:45] <Lyselle> "I hate sloppy troops..." Lyselle frowns, opening the door carefully, and stepping outside to look in case they'd only recently moved through.
[22:45] <Kotono> Outside is a little access alley, going up and connecting to a minor street. You don't see much in the way here. It's a cloudly night, with rain drizzling down. OOC - Spot checks.
[22:46] <Shamal> roll 1d20+9 casting guidance
[22:46] <Reiko-chan> 1,0Shamal rolled :1,0 1d20+9 1,0casting guidance --> 1,0[ 1d20=16 ]12,0{25}
[22:48] <Shamal> "Fresh tracks," Shamal points down at the footprints, trying to estimate the build of whomever made them as she starts to follow the trail.
[22:50] * Lyselle follows Shamal, sword held ready, but really wishing she had some armor and a shield, and... Well, there's a whole lot of things it'd be better to have right now.
[22:52] <Kotono> As you head out, you see that the road ahead is cobblestones. Walkign down the path slowly, you see a man in a heavy black cloak and wide brimmed hat, face looking down at the street. Febras looks up a moment to sniff the air, the cloud covered night sky glanced at.
[22:53] * Shamal mostly keeps her attention on the tracks for fear of losing them, heedless of the rain which is likely ruining her expensive dress, but still manages to address Febras. "Febras, have you seen a young woman with short brown hair pass this way? She may have been wearing the clothes of a serving girl."
[22:56] <Kotono> The tracks are fading rapidly - the cobblestones make it difficult, as doe the rain, but Shamal thinks she has a bead on them. "Hm..." he doesn't turn, instead speaking aloud. "Heh...yes I did. She's heading eastward, I believe. Down this street in quite the hurry. Do hurry, so that you can save your Lord."
[22:56] <Kotono> He pauses a moment, looking up, "Well then, if you're so interested, I'll leave it to you. Do tell Berlioz that he should be along too." Febras steps aside, pulling his hat down as he looks your way.
[22:57] * Shamal stops and stares at Febras for a long, unblinking moment. "We will have to talk about how well informed you are," she states coldly, but alas has bigger fish to fry. "Come on, Lyselle," she picks up the pace, following the tracks while she still can.
[22:58] <Kotono> "Another night..." Febras chuckles as he steps backa nd back and back, away into the shadows. "I wish you a good hunt."
[22:59] * Lyselle frowns, eyeing Febras. They should've made him take the hat off... Shaking her head, she quickly follows up on Shamal, waiting a bit to get out of earshot. "I think we should've made him take the hat off."
[23:00] <Shamal> "Why?" Shamal asks, rapidly pacing along with her eyes fixed on the muddy cobblestones.
[23:01] <Kotono> The path is weak, but your'e following it as best you can, down the street and to an intersection!One way goes east, and the other curves south. Black and quiet houses, none of note. OOc - Under the circumstances I think another check is needed. Tracking.
[23:02] <Shamal> roll 1d20+10
[23:02] <Reiko-chan> 1,0Shamal rolled :1,0 1d20+10 --> 1,0[ 1d20=9 ]12,0{19}
[23:02] <Lyselle> "I'm a suspicious sort in these situations," Lyselle admits with a shrug, looking around with a very dark frown on her face.
[23:03] <Kotono> Shamal can just barely follow it! It goes south, towards the city walls.
[23:04] * Shamal picks up the pace, dearly hoping to intercept their quarry before the trail goes completely cold.
[23:05] <Kotono> As you approach, the rain begins to pick up! It's a long straightaway to the walls, twenty five feet tall. Excellent defense, wet and rain soaked! As you run, about fifty feet away now? (More)
[23:05] <Kotono> roll 1d20+11
[23:05] <Reiko-chan> 1,0Kotono rolled :1,0 1d20+11 --> 1,0[ 1d20=11 ]12,0{22}
[23:06] <Kotono> You can see a figure climbing up, what little light there is letting you see the ripples as you approach. The figure is about halfway up or so, scaling the wall with effiencent, quick movements.
[23:08] <Lyselle> Well, that simplifies things. With guilt clearly indicated, Lyselle...starts climbing up behind this malefactor! Pursuit! Death to the conspirators!
[23:09] <Shamal> "I call upon the spider's blessing to aid me in traversing the obstacles before me," Shamal chants briefly, before breaking into a flat out run and tearing up the wall after the figure!
[23:10] <Kotono> As you approach, you can see the figure turn. She's clad in mostly dark colors and leather, but her face is a woman's! A weapon hangs at her belt - a short sword? A rapier? You can't get a good look. But..."Damn," you hear her soft voice carry, as the rain continues to fall! OOC - Initiative.
[23:10] <Shamal> roll 1d20+2
[23:10] <Reiko-chan> 1,0Shamal rolled :1,0 1d20+2 --> 1,0[ 1d20=18 ]12,0{20}
[23:10] <Kotono> roll 1d20+9
[23:10] <Reiko-chan> 1,0Kotono rolled :1,0 1d20+9 --> 1,0[ 1d20=1 ]12,0{10}
[23:10] <Lyselle> roll 1d20+2
[23:10] <Reiko-chan> 1,0Lyselle rolled :1,0 1d20+2 --> 1,0[ 1d20=20 ]12,0{22}
[23:13] * Kotono changes topic to 'Lyselle>Shamal>Baddieyouhavegotobefuckingkiddingme.'
[23:18] <Lyselle> Lyselle doesn't wait! She clambers up the wall behind this damned assassin, lashing out with her acquired longsword at the last moment to sweep them off the wall! "Surrender!"
[23:18] <Lyselle> roll 1d20+6
[23:18] <Reiko-chan> 1,0Lyselle rolled :1,0 1d20+6 --> 1,0[ 1d20=11 ]12,0{17}
[23:18] <Kotono> OOOC - Hit.
[23:18] <Lyselle> roll 1d8+4
[23:18] <Reiko-chan> 1,0Lyselle rolled :1,0 1d8+4 --> 1,0[ 1d8=7 ]12,0{11}
[23:20] <Kotono> The slash hits true! It rips into her tendons and legs, tearing them open! You hear her hiss, "Bitch..." she scowls, looking down at Lyselle! Grand Striker tears through her body easily, far better than a normal weapon. OOC - Shamal.
[23:22] <Shamal> Effortlessly scampering up the wall in her now somewhat bedraggled and muddied dress, Shamal is even able to free one hand as she ascends to gesture and point at the assassin as she incants a spell, a ray of crackling purple energy lancing forward to strike her!
[23:23] <Shamal> roll 1d20+5 ranged touch
[23:23] <Reiko-chan> 1,0Shamal rolled :1,0 1d20+5 1,0ranged touch --> 1,0[ 1d20=9 ]12,0{14}
[23:23] <Kotono> OOC - Hit,
[23:23] <Shamal> roll 1d6+1 strength penalty
[23:23] <Reiko-chan> 1,0Shamal rolled :1,0 1d6+1 1,0strength penalty --> 1,0[ 1d6=2 ]12,0{3}
[23:24] <Kotono> The strength wilts from her body at that ray, but she nonetheless stays on! With one hand she draws her weapon, a rapier, before she strokes down at Lyselle!
[23:24] <Kotono> roll 1d20+11
[23:24] <Reiko-chan> 1,0Kotono rolled :1,0 1d20+11 --> 1,0[ 1d20=10 ]12,0{21}
[23:24] <Kotono> roll 1d6-4
[23:24] <Reiko-chan> 1,0Kotono rolled :1,0 1d6-4 --> 1,0[ 1d6=4 ]12,0{0}
[23:25] <Kotono> OOC - Fort save, 1 damage.
[23:25] <Lyselle> roll 1d20+7
[23:25] <Reiko-chan> 1,0Lyselle rolled :1,0 1d20+7 --> 1,0[ 1d20=6 ]12,0{13}
[23:25] <Kotono> roll 1d6+1
[23:25] <Reiko-chan> 1,0Kotono rolled :1,0 1d6+1 --> 1,0[ 1d6=1 ]12,0{2}
[23:26] <Kotono> As the weapon strikes, Lyselle feels her body go numb! Her motions are clumsier, retarded and hindered! OOC - 2 points of dex damage.
[23:27] <Kotono> As this happens, girls fighting on walls in beautiful dresses is interrupted! Beriloz runs up, approaching as the battle rages! OOC - Roll initaitive.
[23:27] <Berlioz> roll 1d20+1
[23:27] <Reiko-chan> 1,0Berlioz rolled :1,0 1d20+1 --> 1,0[ 1d20=18 ]12,0{19}
[23:27] * Kotono changes topic to 'Lyselle>Shamal>Berlioz>Baddieyouhavegotobefuckingkiddingme.'
[23:29] <Lyselle> Lyselle hisses, but pays the debilitating pinpring no heed! Her duty to her lord is in the forefront of her mind, kept as a clear objective and bastion against supernatural attacks while she slashes at this black hearted criminal!
[23:29] <Lyselle> roll 1d20+6
[23:29] <Reiko-chan> 1,0Lyselle rolled :1,0 1d20+6 --> 1,0[ 1d20=19 ]12,0{25}
[23:29] <Kotono> OOC - Crit threat.
[23:29] <Lyselle> roll 1d20+6 crit confirm
[23:29] <Reiko-chan> 1,0Lyselle rolled :1,0 1d20+6 1,0crit confirm --> 1,0[ 1d20=17 ]12,0{23}
[23:29] <Kotono> OOC - Crit.
[23:29] <Lyselle> roll 2d8+8
[23:29] <Reiko-chan> 1,0Lyselle rolled :1,0 2d8+8 --> 1,0[ 2d8=14 ]12,0{22}
[23:30] <Kotono> The vicious strike stabs right into her back! She wobbles on the wall, blood gushing out! Evne in this light, you can see her face in pain, back stained red!
[23:31] <Shamal> "Throw down your weapon and surrender if you want to live!" Shamal calls against the driving rain, readying a spell in case she doesn't play nice.

[Corwin]

[21:08] <Kotono> OOC - Holding your action, Shamal?
[21:09] <Shamal> OOC: Readying an action. I'll summon something if she does anything that isn't surrendering.
[21:10] <Kotono> The female thief hangs to the wall, splatters of dark bloodf alling with the raindrops. The cloudy sky weeps down, beautiful ball maidens at war. Snarling a moment, "Sorry...but I don't...have any illusions of surviving now anyway," she spits, reddish blood coming from her mouth in a spray.
[21:14] <Shamal> "So be it!" Shamal calls, using her three hand to gesture in the air while hanging off the wall. "Hunter of the night, I summon you to bring this assassin to ground!" Upon her words, an enormous black winged shape materialises above the wall, beating its wings furiously and emitting a high pitched screech as it tries to snatch the assassin up!
[21:15] * Lyselle (~dragomirs@225-52-77-204.sptc.mnscu.edu) has joined #dunes
[21:15] * ChanServ sets mode: +ao Lyselle Lyselle
[21:17] <Shamal> *free hand
[21:17] <Kotono> As the bat comes, the rapier of the assassin darts out, a defensive stroke!
[21:17] <Kotono> roll 1d20+11
[21:17] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+11 and gets 30."12 [1d20=19]
[21:18] <Kotono> roll 1d20+11 crit check ow
[21:18] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+11 crit check ow and gets 12."12 [1d20=1]
[21:18] <Kotono> roll 1d6-4
[21:18] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d6-4  and gets -3."12 [1d6=1]
[21:18] <Kotono> OOC - Have the bat make a fort save.
[21:18] <Shamal> roll 1d20+9
[21:18] * Hatbot --> "Shamal rolls 1d20+9 and gets 25."12 [1d20=16]
[21:20] <Kotono> While the defense barely punctures the bat's wing, it's just enough to make it have to fly a little off! Meanwhile, Berlioz rushes to the scene, monocles rainsplattered but nonetheless still perfectly in place! He begins to tell of a tale of wall climbing sword princesses and shamans, the tale epic!
[21:21] * Shamal changes topic to 'Lyselle > Shamal > Berlioz > Baddieyouhavegotobefuckingkiddingme'
[21:21] <Kotono> roll 1d20+11
[21:21] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+11 and gets 28."12 [1d20=17]
[21:23] * Berlioz (~assis_san@200.175.229.215.adsl.gvt.net.br) has joined #dunes
[21:23] * ChanServ sets mode: +o Berlioz
[21:23] <Kotono> Grunting in pain, the assassin pulls herself up the wall! She leaves a trail of blood as she shimmers up, avoiding bat and assault! But she climbs up, just about reaching the top! OOC - Lyselle, you're up.
[21:28] <Lyselle> OOC - I'll hold for the bat.
[21:29] <Kotono> OOC - Bat and Shamalthing are up.
[21:30] <Shamal> Flying far faster than the assassin can climb, the bat beats its wings furiosuly about her, a maelstrom of leathery flapping as it takes the opportunity to snatch her while her weapon isn't ready to poke tiny holes in it!
[21:30] <Shamal> roll 1d20+7 melee touch
[21:30] * Hatbot --> "Shamal rolls 1d20+7 melee touch and gets 10."12 [1d20=3]
[21:30] <Shamal> roll 1d20+12 grapple check
[21:30] * Hatbot --> "Shamal rolls 1d20+12 grapple check and gets 14."12 [1d20=2]
[21:31] <Kotono> roll 1d20+6
[21:31] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+6 and gets 9."12 [1d20=3]
[21:32] <Kotono> Just as she reaches the very top of the wall, arm on the other side, the bat lunges in! The two engage in a grapple, dire bat clinging and wrapping around the assassin!
[21:34] <Shamal> roll 1d8+7
[21:34] * Hatbot --> "Shamal rolls 1d8+7 and gets 11."12 [1d8=4]
[21:35] <Kotono> The bat holds and rips, little foreclaws raking into her flesh! The struggle is a momentary nova for freedom atop the wall, but within seconds, the assassin screams and goes limp!
[21:36] <Kotono> OOC - The assassin's not in fighting shape, so free actions.
[21:37] * Shamal scampers up the wall after the assassin, magic letting her ascend faster than even the most skilled climber, until she reaches the assassin and notices her state. "Oh, dear... Let her down!" she gestures at the bat to carefully fly down to ground level and let go of the assassin, before following herself to the ground and casting Cure Minor Wounds on her to ensure she's stable, though hopefully still unconscious.
[21:38] * Lyselle drops from the wall, shaking her head and cleaning Oberuth's sword. "Well...that worked out."
[21:39] <Kotono> The assassin's bleeding continues but slows after the miniscule healing, rain falling harder. It's starting to rain heavily, soaking your dresses and tunics. Her leather armor's back is torn by longsword, her rapier lying besides her.
[21:40] <Shamal> "Let's get her to the garrison and locked up," Shamal decides, dismissing the bat back to whence it came. "Then we can report to the commander - she won't be fit to interrogate until the morning, anyway."
[21:40] * Berlioz sighs. "For someone who was hired specifically to kill the king, she's... astoundingly incompetent. Either that or we're ridiculously lucky bastards. Let us take this miscreant back, we have a lot to ask."
[21:42] <Kotono> The trip to the garrison is a short one. Within three streets you come on a fully armed patrol, who are more than glad to escort you to the garrison. OOC - What are you doing with her/searching?
[21:42] * Shamal casts detect magic on the off chance that she has anything of note. "Make sure she's well secured and kept under guard at all times," she orders the guards while securing her equipment and armour away.
[21:44] <Kotono> As they search her, the party finds:
[21:44] <Kotono> Rapier(Moderate magic)
[21:44] <Kotono> Leather Armor
[21:44] <Kotono> 20 GP
[21:44] <Kotono> A tied and rolled up scroll, hidden in a pouch in her clothing
[21:44] <Kotono> A triply knotted bag, lumpy and small.
[21:44] <Shamal> Since the scroll is not magical, Shamal has no compunctions against opening it and having a read!
[21:45] <Kotono> As the guards chain her up in a very small, very well locked room, Shamal reads the scroll. It looks like a scribbling notepad, with the following:
[21:48] <Kotono> Third stone, past the lighting splitted tree - Common
[21:48] <Kotono> ???? - Unknown letters.
[21:48] <Kotono> ???? - More unknown letters
[21:48] <Kotono> ???? - More, blood red letters.
[21:48] <Kotono> Dejeon - In Terran.
[21:49] <Shamal> roll 1d20+8
[21:49] * Hatbot --> "Shamal rolls 1d20+8 and gets 26."12 [1d20=18]
[21:49] * Lyselle glances at the scroll, trying to see if she recognizes anything.
[21:50] <Shamal> "I think it's a set of instructions, but can't read all of it," Shamal shakes her head, handing it off to Lyselle and taking a moment to see if she can guess at the school of magic on the rapier.
[21:50] <Shamal> roll 1d20+13 spellcraft
[21:50] * Hatbot --> "Shamal rolls 1d20+13 spellcraft and gets 23."12 [1d20=10]
[21:52] <Kotono> Lyselle can read the first and second lines that Shamal could not read:
[21:52] <Kotono> Archeon's Celestia - In Celestial
[21:52] <Kotono> The greenest point of the high mountain - In Elven
[21:54] <Lyselle> "Archeon's Celestia and The greenest point of the high mountain," Lyselle translates, pointing out the lines to Shamal before waving Berlioz over to look at it.
[21:55] * Berlioz nudges, and picks up the parchment. "Hmmm, let's see what I can do..."
[21:55] <Kotono> The last unlearned line is in infernal:
[21:55] <Kotono> Ascending past the red line - In Infernal
[21:56] <Shamal> "Rapier has transmutation magic on it," Shamal informs the others as she boxes it away, before nodding to Lyselle and smiling, "I couldn't read those parts," she admits. "Last line says Dejeon, in Terran. I think it's a command word, but we can ask her tomorrow. Let me just check what's in this bag..." she hefts the triple knotted bag and opens it up to take a look inside.
[21:56] <Kotono> Inside look to be a few mushrooms, a light powder coming out as Shamal opens it! This makes her sneeze...OOC - Fort save.
[21:57] <Shamal> roll 1d20+6
[21:57] * Hatbot --> "Shamal rolls 1d20+6 and gets 12."12 [1d20=6]
[21:57] <Kotono> roll 2d6
[21:57] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 2d6 and gets 11."12 [2d6=6, 5]
[21:57] * Berlioz nods, and reads it in a fairly monotone pace. "Third stone, past the lightning plitted tree, Archeon's Celestia, the greenest point of the high mountain, ascending past the red line, Dejeon."
[21:57] <Berlioz> *splitted
[21:58] <Kotono> The stuff makes her nose burn and lungs sizzle, body wobbling back and forth.
[21:59] <Kotono> A foul, rotting plant oder quickly begins to fill the room, pungent enough to make your eyes sting.
[21:59] <Shamal> Eyes watering, Shamal holds the bag far away from herself and everyone else, doing her best to reseal it before it can affect her even more, or begin to take its toll on the others present.
[22:00] <Kotono> This is done just in time, the horrible scent sealed away on a quick reknotting.
[22:01] <Shamal> "Found our poison," Shamal coughs a few times, carefully making sure the bag isn't damaged before she boxes it with the rest of the assassin's possessions, making sure to put it far away from the pointy part of the rapier. "Yuck, I hate to think what that'd do if you ate it..."
[22:01] <Kotono> The bag doesn't look damaged at all. It's quite sturdy and thick, as a matter of fact.
[22:01] * Lyselle shudders, blinking hard and backing away. "I'd say so..." she mutters, swallowing hard.
[22:01] * Berlioz winces. "Dear god, you have to wonder how resistant lord Salman must be by surviving the ingestion of that. That thing makes me ill just by existing in the vicinity."
[22:02] * Shamal then casts prestidigitation to dry herself and clean off any spores that might still be clinging, both on herself and on any of the furniture around where she opened the bag. Someone might eat their lunch off that table, tomorrow!
[22:02] <Kotono> This goes quite well, the guards closing the door behind them and with relatively good reason.
[22:02] <Shamal> "Let's go make our report - remember, keep her under guard at all times, and don't touch anything in that box," she instructs the guards.
[22:03] <Kotono> The guards wave their arms and hands around, hurrying the smell's departure. "Yes sirs," they agree quickly, "That's the one who..." One of them turns, a look of anger on his face, tinting it red.
[22:04] * Shamal nods grimly. "The evidence is pretty conclusive, I'd say."
[22:05] <Kotono> The guards mutter and murmur, glaring back at her jail cell door. "...Hope I get off in time to see her hang," one spits.
[22:06] * Lyselle just shakes her head. Guards acting like it was something truly malicious... "Shamal, coudl you ah..." she gestures a little, blushing slightly. "Fix this? We hardly look presentable..."
[22:07] <Berlioz> "Don't act funny, however. We need the woman alive for now. As much as anyone in Balmuria may want the woman dead, I'd rather have her questioned, judged and punished than finding her dead after an untimely lynching. This isn't directed to any of you in particular - rather, it's a friendly warning", the bard deadpans to the guards. Ah, human emotion, how brutally it can turn the tides of events.
[22:07] <Shamal> "Oh, of course," Shamal mutters a brief mending cantrip and runs her fingers over the tear in the fabric where the rapier pierced, mending Lyselle's dress. "I can dry us off with another cantrip once we get back inside at the temple of Waukeen - no sense doing it now since we'll just get wet again."
[22:08] <Berlioz> "I'm not sure how much of a ball we'll see once we get back, but yes."
[22:09] <Kotono> So the trip back passes in a steady rainstorm. The group passes a few patrols who are moving quite quickly and surely on the way. A pitstop just before allows for magical dry cleaning, Shamal's magic saving vanity. On coming back to the hall, you see Commander Oberuth has commadeered a large table, guardmen scurrying back and forth, bringing reports. Six guards are at the front door, Commander Oberuth waiting. "I just heard," he says, plainly,
[22:09] <Kotono> "I just heard," he says, plainly, some of his tension slowly rising away with a deep breath out. "You got the assassin?"
[22:10] <Berlioz> "Yes. It was oddly smooth, considering the unnervingly high confusion factor involved", the bard replies simplistically.
[22:10] <Shamal> "The evidence is pretty conclusive, sir," Shamal nods. "I can definitively identify the poison tomorrow, but it was certainly something exceptionally deadly she was carrying. She's unconscious and well secured at the garrison."
[22:11] * Lyselle nods, stepping forward and offering Oberuth's sword back to him hilt first and over her arm. "Quite, as the others have told, we pursued them to the city wall, and managed to bring them into custody before they could make good their escape."
[22:12] <Kotono> The breath that is exhaled is like a gale of relief, Oberuth closing his eyes. "...good. We'll need to interrogate her as soon as she's able to be. Is she now?" He takes the sword back with a grim nod, sheathing it.
[22:12] <Shamal> "Not without magical healing," Shamal shakes her head. "And I expended my last spell to stabilise her after we rendered her unconscious."
[22:14] <Kotono> "Damnations." A soft, muttered swear under Oberuth's breath, "Is there any means to heal her enough to talk that you have? She'll hang, it's only a matter of getting what we can out of her as fast as we can."
[22:15] * Shamal smiles faintly. "We are at the temple of Waukeen, sir. I'm sure they have potions in stock."
[22:16] * Berlioz sighs. "I could patch her wounds easily enough, if you care. No need to spend potions for that."
[22:17] <Kotono> "...oh yes." Oberuth blushes, rubbing his temple. "Even better. Heal her and get information from her, now. Speed is of the essence. If this is a preemptive strike to cut our heads off before an invasion..." Trailing off and looking on at each, "This stays private, but if it is from down south, you know exactly what this will lead to."
[22:20] * Shamal nods. "We'll see what we can get out of her tonight sir - if she's resilient, I learned a spell from Seira that could prove useful in the morning. She'll talk," she promises.
[22:20] * Berlioz rubs his forehead, wincing a bit. "Yes. Our crafty ways sometimes could come back to bite us in the neck. Regardless... anyone willing to come with me? I doubt a spindly bard can put up much pressure in interrogation."
[22:21] <Kotono> "Good, get going." WAving his hand in dismissal, "Decide and go. Hurry."
[22:21] <Shamal> "Of course, Berlioz," Shamal nods. "I don't think any of us want to step away just yet."
[22:22] <Berlioz> "Okay, then. Let us go."
[22:25] <Kotono> So you go. The rain is finally slowing as you approach the garrison, well lit. Plently of hooded lanters and shielded torches have been put out. A few people linger by the gates besides guards, getting glares and occasional orders to disperse. Of note, you see a tall man in armor there, arms crosses as he watches. A warmace hangs at his belt. Besides him is a tiny human girl with a quiver on her back, a hooded cowl worn. They look familiar, st
[22:25] <Kotono> They look familiar, standing out from the crowd of peasants and artisans woken up by the commotion.
[22:26] <Kotono> *plate armor
[22:28] * Shamal pays little mind to the gawkers as she makes her way inside - so long as it isn't a mob trying to break into the garrison then they can do what they like.
[22:29] * Lyselle casts a few cautious looks, eyeing those adventurers in particular, and a little sternly as she follows Shamal in.
[22:30] <Kotono> So the party heads inside. The tall man nods to Lyselle at her look. To the small cell where the assassin is held, a larger room connecting to a hall before it. Guards salute as you enter.
[22:32] * Shamal returns the salute. "Unlock the cell door, please. We're going to interrogate the prisoner," she asks the guard.
[22:33] <Kotono> The guards go to do so, footsteps sounding as they move. The door is opened, the cell ahead. The assassin wears her cowl and plain clothes, armor having been removed. She's not concious and still badly wounded.
[22:35] * Berlioz blinks slowly, approaching the unconscious ruffian. "Well, this is where I chime in", the bard mutters, reciting the dystics for Cure Light Wounds.
[22:35] <Berlioz> roll 1d8+5 for Saul'd
[22:35] * Hatbot --> "Berlioz rolls 1d8+5 for Saul'd and gets 8."12 [1d8=3]
[22:35] * Lyselle leans into the doorframe, watching mostly and waiting out her companions' usually more effective means of interrogation. Ah the wonders of magic...
[22:36] <Kotono> This magic does much for her, restoring some small color to her cheeks. Her breathing is steady within moments, less ragged and on the verge of death.
[22:40] * Berlioz gazes at the assassin, blankly pondering, and snaps his fingers close to her ears. "Hey."
[22:41] <Kotono> An incomprehensible murmur is all you're rewarded with. Then another, weak and gurgled deep in her chest.
[22:44] * Berlioz grumbles. "I am not very likely to spend another casting of magic on her if she're conscious enough to mutter. Get a prisoner healthy enough and there may actually be undesirable reactions."
[22:45] * Shamal folds her arms, leaning on the wall. "It's up to you, Berlioz," she replies cooly, keeping her eyes on the assassin.
[22:46] <Kotono> "Nnnng..." A cough, still lined with flecks of blood that escape her lips. Her eyes open to half mast, peering ahead.
[22:46] * Berlioz folds his arms as well and leans to a wall, glancing at the assassin boredly. "Well, well, sleeping beauty. Getting back to your senses?"
[22:48] <Kotono> "..ugh." She spits again, coughing in a way that makes her entire body shake. "What?"
[22:52] * Lyselle (~dragomirs@225-52-77-204.sptc.mnscu.edu) Quit (Work mrf. -=SysReset 2.53=-)
[22:52] * Berlioz rubs his chin, gazing at the killer, looking for her eyes as he undistinguishably mutters the dystics for Charm Person, not losing track of her sight.
[22:54] <Kotono> roll 1d20+6 What's your DC?
[22:54] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+6 What's your DC? and gets 11."12 [1d20=5]
[22:55] <Kotono> Her eyes glaze over a moment at Berlioz' magic, ensorcelled!
[22:56] * Berlioz nods calmly, and approaches the seemingly entranced wench. "Now that I got your attention, I'd be thankful if you answered a few questions for us..."
[22:58] <Kotono> "..why?" she shakes her head, "I've got no illusions nor any desire to make my hanging any surer."
[23:01] * Lyselle (~dragomirs@225-52-77-204.sptc.mnscu.edu) has joined #dunes
[23:01] * ChanServ sets mode: +ao Lyselle Lyselle
[23:02] <Berlioz> "If you don't speak, you'll definitely make it surer than you would if you actually provide us information. Your acts aren't pardonable, and you're fully aware of that. However, you can at least be spared of unnecessary pain and ordeals. Your very words admit your responsibility in a roundabout way, which alone could get you to be lynched by an angry mob in seconds. That's easy and unrewarding, however."
[23:04] <Kotono> The assassin laughs, a wince following as she coughs. "Yeah, well, I knew what would happen if I fucked up. Doesn't matter much if it's some mob of a man in a black mask, does it?"
[23:07] <Berlioz> "Well. While I can't disagree with your logic, I'm not particularly bloodthirsty. And, quite frankly, you're more useful alive than dead now. I might even be willing to arrange a deal of sorts - of course, as long as we're in the same page", the bard retorts softly.
[23:08] <Kotono> Her eyebrow raises, as her arms fiddle a bit, finding the limits of her manacles. "Well...if you have a good offer, maybe I'd sing to save my skin."
[23:13] * Berlioz nods. "That sounds good enough to me. I can't guarantee you much in the way of anything - but I'd say sparing your life is very generous as is. If you spill the beans, I can arrange for that."
[23:14] <Kotono> "Mmm..." She licks her lips and looks down, before shaking her head, "That's a good step, but y'see? The only thing between me and and an axe to the neck is what's in my head." A smirk at that, as she pulls at her manacles a bit. "Once that's out, well...that's out. But..." she looks at Berlioz and nods, "I can give you something, a hint. Good faith measure, say."
[23:17] * Berlioz nods solemnly, arms folded, relaxed expression. "That's a start. Mind enlightening us?"
[23:19] <Kotono> "I don't work cheap, or 'round here normally. But someone with resources went to a lot of trouble to find me and get me down here, then to agree on a price AND provide me with the poison. Oh yes, heh, heh. Nasty stuff. Never thought I'd see it that strong. This ain't kiddy business."
[23:19] <Kotono> She pauses, licking her red stained lips again. "Someone wants your precious Archduke dead. Very, very, very dead. I just happened to get the right price for it."
[23:21] * Berlioz snickers. "We already have that figured out from what happened tonight, my dear. We know you're simply cannon fodder for whoever wants Salman six feet under, as well. You'll have to work harder than this. I'm willing to help, but you have to contribute."
[23:23] <Kotono> "Pfah." She spits, "Tell me this - how dead is he? Or...does he happen to be alive?" She raises her eyebrow after that, "Stuff's nastier than hells. Just breathin' it in can nearly kill ya. Oh yeah, don't go opening any bags I had. Still got another dose left. Grind up it's stem and pour it into a fluid, and it destroys the body from the inside out. Permanently, in the rare chance it doesn't kill ya outright."
[23:24] * Shamal bites off a curse. Hopefully her magic will help, but it doesn't sound like any common poison...
[23:27] * Berlioz glances at Shamal briefly, and returns the stare to the assassin. "Well. What is that poison made of, anyway? Also, why carry extras when you were so certain one would off the target outright?"
[23:28] <Kotono> "See now..." The girl smirks a little more, "Did my studies. Maybe, just maybe there's a way to cure it. Maybe." With that she smiles once more, breathing ragged. "Insurance. In case someone gets...lucky or my luck plain runs out. Oh, but don't go reachin' any conclusions, mushroom's not the cure by itself."
[23:28] <Kotono> She breathes out once more, flexing her hands, "I'll tell ya all about it if we play nice." With that, she smiles at Berlioz.
[23:30] * Berlioz nods. "I see", the bard reclines and calmly gazes at the lady. "Well, then? I'm all ears."
[23:30] <Kotono> "No no...Said I needed a gauran-tee. I like ya and all, but you can't be runnin' this whole place, can ya? Once I spill it..." she shrugs.
[23:34] <Berlioz> "As I said - the best I can give you is sparing your existance from the rope and the masses crying for your head. Truth be told, for now, you're more useful alive than dead. And we can keep it working this way. I'm certain we could work something out if you help us here. However, if the king dies? No promises can save you. You'd be skinned alive by random townsfolk, let alone the guard. You need more?"

[Corwin]

[20:56] <Kotono> "I need it by someone..." Oh she pauses, batting her eyelashes. "Very, very important and with authority. Since I'm right and your precious Archduke's still breathin', bring me someone important and we'll talk."
[21:01] * Berlioz raises an eyebrow. "Quite frankly, your demand is a bit... strange. Not to say risky. Listen, I am willing to bargain with you - however, I think I'm not reaching by saying I might be the only one. Most everyone in this kingdom dearly wants to see your hide rotting in the sun - and they're not bending to the demands of a rogue. I could even arrange a meeting for you. I just don't think it'll do you any good, far the contrary."
[21:03] <Kotono> "Well then..." she shrugs and shakes her head, "I got nothin' to lose. I'm just sayin' I don't trust people above you to keep your word. I spill to you, but some fancy aristocrat 'cides that 'In the interests of high'n'mighty' justice that I need to hang anyway." So she pauses, licking  her lips and looking up. Her face is a bit rawboned on first glance, not particulary attractive or attention getting in the harsh cell light.
[21:07] * Berlioz nods. "You are right. For that same reason, I find your request strange. You could request their presence, they could come, promise you they'd spare your life and order your head in a silver plate as soon as they leave. It's a waste of time, and a jeopardizing demand on your side", the bard lets out calmly. Unfazed by the roguish woman's words, he sighs softly.
[21:10] <Kotono> "...heh, bastard," she grins, teeth white. "Foxy, are ya? Alright. It's called Ruginican Grand Death Cap. Stuff's more poisonous than a dozen vials of Black Lotus Extract combined together." She takes a breath, licking her dry, blood flecked lips. "The mushroom's supposed to be rare or extinct, but I guess it isn't after all. Grind it up and it's the perfect poison - even if the target somehow survives, it shreds their insides, making them bed
[21:11] * Shamal (WinNT@user-54447962.lns4-c10.dsl.pol.co.uk) Quit (reboot -=SysReset 2.53=-)
[21:11] <Kotono> making them bedridden and feeble. Like tossing acid into your intestines and stomach." (More)
[21:13] * Shamal (WinNT@user-54447962.lns4-c10.dsl.pol.co.uk) has joined #dunes
[21:13] <Kotono> "Did my work in it - it's what you'd call some sort of alchemical and biological process. Part of what it does prevents the body from healing the injuries. But..." With a slow smile, "There's a way to reverse it. Combine another dose of the Death Cap with Mountain Aqua Sprigs, and it reverses the effects completely."
[21:13] * ChanServ sets mode: +ao Shamal Shamal
[21:19] <Shamal> roll 1d20+14
[21:19] * Hatbot --> "Shamal rolls 1d20+14 and gets 23."12 [1d20=9]
[21:26] * Berlioz folds his arms and considers. He nods silently, returning his gaze to the rogue. "Well. This is something important to hear. Hmmmm... I wonder...", the bard pretends to get lost in thought for a moment.
[21:28] <Kotono> "It is. The name's obvious - you can find Mountain Aqua Sprigs in mountains, mostly by underground waterways." Looking up to Berlioz there, "Get that and it shouldn't be hard to reverse the effects."
[21:29] <Shamal> roll 1d20+3 is she bullshitting us?
[21:29] * Hatbot --> "Shamal rolls 1d20+3 is she bullshitting us? and gets 12."12 [1d20=9]
[21:31] <Berlioz> roll 1d20+6 for sensical motives
[21:31] * Hatbot --> "Berlioz rolls 1d20+6 for sensical motives and gets 22."12 [1d20=16]
[21:36] * Berlioz raises an eyebrow and nods, serenely adjusting his monocle. "I see. This is... hm. I believe we have bothered you enough for now. You have been a fairly good host, I'd hate to overstay our welcome. We will return, however. Unless... well. Shamal", the bard glances to his companion, "do you have anything to say? Or ask?"
[21:37] <Shamal> "I believe my questions can wait until the morning," the blonde replies flatly, suspiciously eyeing the prisoner.
[21:38] <Kotono> Lyselle nods quietly as well.
[21:39] * Berlioz nods. "Well, then. This was a fairly productive conversation, whilst not particularly unpleasant. Excuse us, please. And rest as well as you can, miss."
[21:39] <Kotono> "Heh..." Smirking and voice dropping into a drawl, "Yessir."
[21:40] <Kotono> Lyselle heads out at this, standing back.
[21:42] * Shamal likewise departs. "I'm not familiar offhand with the poison, but I know a spell that might let me identify it in the morning," she explains to her companions. "Though I'll still try and heal Lord Salman via magic, anyway."
[21:46] <Kotono> So the party goes to rest. The rest of the night and morning are spent in gainful sleep and recovery. On waking, Berlioz and Shamal find that the city is quiet. Only a few people go out, the gates closed and triple guarded. The entire city is painfully subdued, soldiers working around the clock. The first matter is a simple meeting with Commander Obruth. He looks worse for the wear, slumping in your normal meeting room. His hair is a mess, bag
[21:47] <Kotono>  His hair is a mess, bags under his eyes. Smothering a yawn as you enter, "Lyselle's helping the guard at the moment," he informs, waving. "Sit down and report, and we'll get to business."
[21:47] * Shamal sits down and lets Berlioz do the talking, since she hasn't begun her work, yet.
[21:50] * Berlioz folds his arms and nods, standing up. "The woman did not blurt out who is she working for. However, she did spill the beans on the poison, and a possible cure for it. We should test this to verify its accuracy, but I think Shamal can take care of that quickly."
[21:51] <Shamal> "I have prepared some spells which should aid Lord Salman in his recovery," the blonde nods. "I also need to examine the poison before asking a few questions of my own."
[21:52] <Kotono> "Good." Oberuth rubs his face, shoulders slumping. "Lord Salman hasn't awoken or even stirred yet. Go ahead and get going, and report back soon." Smothering a second yawn, "I need to go meet with Khardon and settle other pressing matters. Keep me informed."
[21:52] <Shamal> "Yes, sir," Shamal rises, "Is Lord Salman still at the temple of Waukeen?"
[21:53] <Kotono> "Yes, he's not been moved." A curt nod to that, "Go."
[21:53] * Shamal salutes and heads off towards the temple!
[21:53] * Berlioz salutes briefly and follows Shamal.
[21:55] <Kotono> The Temple of Waukeen has been coopted. The face of the Goddess has several soldiers standing guard over the mostly empty streets, saluting crisply as you approach. You note Wedge and Biggs have been pressed into service here, the younger shooting you a curious, confused, hopeful look as you pass.
[21:56] * Shamal smiles briefly to the pair, only giving a perfunctory greeting as she hurries onwards on her errand of mercy.
[21:57] * Berlioz hurriedly follows along, leaving a nod to the pair before following along.
[21:58] <Kotono> So onward and in you go. A large bedroom with bookshelves and a beautiful set of paintings is here, clearly rich. However, the large, soft bed in the center has been converted, Lord Salman laying there. Two guards stand there, one on each side. The high priest of the temple, Gilartal, stands over him. His brown robes show gold stitching, wealth all over this room.
[21:59] <Shamal> "How is he?" Shamal asks the priest quietly, wondering if he's already used the same spells she's prepared herself, or even stronger ones...
[22:02] <Kotono> "He's alive, asleep. Past that, only Waukeen knows." He turns just a bit towards you, "I'm afraid to note that my efforts have been largely futile. How I'm not sure, but I do know that something's fundamentally wrong here." His face is framed with a dark scowl.
[22:05] <Shamal> "I feared as much," Shamal looks downcast. "My own spells will likely be less effective than yours, but I would like to at least try before exploring other avenues." Leaning over the side of the bed, she incants a prayer to Mielikki, urging the Forest Queen to aid Salman's recovery against this unnatural malady while bestowing two blessings upon him.
[22:05] <Shamal> OOC: Lesser Restoration and Healthful Rest
[22:06] <Kotono> The spells are cast, the invocation of the forest lord potent! Yet nothing seems to happen, no grand recovery. Only Lord Salman's breathing, a heavy, slow affair. In and out, up and down, unchanging.
[22:07] * Shamal then takes out her healing kit, along with the copious notes she took from the gnome surgery, and proceeds to give Lord Salman a thorough examination to see if she can diagnose his ailment rather than trust entirely to the words of his would be assassin.
[22:08] <Kotono> OOC - Notes will give you a +2 circumstance bonus.
[22:09] <Shamal> roll 1d20+11 guidance
[22:09] * Hatbot --> "Shamal rolls 1d20+11 guidance and gets 17."12 [1d20=6]
[22:10] <Kotono> Shamal can't really pin it down. Whatever it is, it's most heinous.
[22:11] * Shamal sighs, shaking her head in defeat. "At least it isn't getting worse, whatever it is... I suppose another chat with the assassin is in order. Good day," she nods to Gilartal and the other guards present, before briskly departing.
[22:12] <Kotono> So the two head along again! The cell is triple guarded, the assassin asleep inside. The guards salute and stand aside as you approach...
[22:14] <Shamal> Before going into the cell, Shamal goes to check the assassin's belongings, casting a spell to sharpen her mind first, and then casting Detect Poison and taking a look at the bag.
[22:16] <Kotono> The rapier has some poison on it. The bag with the mushrooms is obviously poisonous. The rapier has Giant Wasp's Poison or a variant of, but it's kinda diluted from the rain. The stuff inside the bag is Ruginican Grand Death Cap.
[22:20] <Shamal> roll 1d20+14 for hilarity
[22:20] * Hatbot --> "Shamal rolls 1d20+14 for hilarity and gets 25."12 [1d20=11]
[22:22] <Shamal> "Oh, my..." Shamal murmurs, closing the box and heading now towards the cell. Questions, questions...
[22:23] <Kotono> The cell is quiet. The assassin sleeps there, unaware of Shamal and Berlioz.
[22:24] <Shamal> No sense in putting her on guard by casting spells when she can see them! Shamal proceeds to cast Charm Person on the assassin!
[22:24] <Shamal> OOC: DC 16 will save
[22:24] <Kotono> roll 1d20+6
[22:24] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+6 and gets 17."12 [1d20=11]
[22:25] <Kotono> The assassin is still asleep.
[22:25] <Shamal> "I don't think that took..." Shamal frowns. "Oh, well, hopefully hypnosis will work without softening her up. Got anything you want to cast first, Berlioz?"
[22:28] * Ebiris_ (WinNT@user-54447962.lns4-c10.dsl.pol.co.uk) has joined #dunes
[22:29] * Shamal (WinNT@user-54447962.lns4-c10.dsl.pol.co.uk) Quit (NickServ (GHOST command used by Ebiris_))
[22:29] * Ebiris_ is now known as Shamal
[22:29] * ChanServ sets mode: +ao Shamal Shamal
[22:31] * Berlioz nods. "Well...", the bard quietly mutters the dystics to Detect Thoughts.
[22:32] <Kotono> roll 1d20+6
[22:32] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+6 and gets 21."12 [1d20=15]
[22:33] <Kotono> Berlioz cannot detect her thoughts, whatever lies in her dreaming mind is out of reach.
[22:35] <Kotono> Meanwhile, the assassin begins to snore softly.
[22:36] * Berlioz sighs, and recasts DT once again. Giving up a headway into an interrogation isn't exactly optimal.
[22:36] <Kotono> roll 1d20+6
[22:37] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+6 and gets 20."12 [1d20=14]
[22:37] <Kotono> Once again, Berlioz cannot read her mind despite his best efforts.
[22:38] * Shamal gives the woman a more gentle shake than she probably deserves. "Wake up," the blonde carols insistently.
[22:39] <Kotono> It takes a moment, but her eyes open. "Grgh," she winces, "What?"
[22:42] <Shamal> "Sorry, I didn't want to interrupt the sleep of the innocent, but... well, actually, that's fine, isn't it?" Shamal smiles thinly as she steps back, giving the woman some space. "I thought we could have a bit of a chat, you and I."
[22:43] <Kotono> She squirms a bit, face showing pain as her injuries shift. "Fine, get on with it," she scowls, a dark frown on her face. Her voice drips with sarcasm, deep.
[22:45] <Shamal> "Well, let's start with something easy - what's your name? We can't just keep calling you 'you' or 'assassin', after all, can we?" Shamal smiles a bit, seemingly unaffected by the sarcasm. Yep, that charm spell sure failed.
[22:46] <Kotono> "Beth." It's said, flat and to the point, "So, gonna hang me yet or not? I'd like to know if I should be wishing for a last meal yet." The smile gets the same sarcasm back, biting.
[22:50] <Shamal> "Honestly, that's still up in the air," Shamal admits. "You still need to stand trial, after all. Probably just a formality, but strange things have happened before. What I'm interested in, though, is that Ruginican Grand Death Cap. You see, I'm something of an alchemist myself, and as far as anyone knows, that mushroom went extinct a very long time ago."
[22:55] <Kotono> "Heh, you'd have to ask my employer about that." She smirks abotu it, as if gloating. "I'm sure that person would love to tell you."
[22:58] * Carthrat (carthrat@c58-107-63-64.eburwd7.vic.optusnet.com.au) Quit (Connection reset by peer)
[22:58] * Carthrat (carthrat@c58-107-63-64.eburwd7.vic.optusnet.com.au) has joined #dunes
[22:58] <Shamal> "By all means feel free to volunteer the name of your employer. I'm sure we'd have just tons to talk about," Shamal replies, showing that sarcasm isn't beyond her, after all.
[22:58] <Shamal> roll 1d20+9 diplomacy since I've been nice so far (guidance)
[22:58] * Hatbot --> "Shamal rolls 1d20+9 diplomacy since I've been nice so far (guidance) and gets 17."12 [1d20=8]
[22:59] <Kotono> She takes a breath, "Well, honestly, I'd love to. I can tell you the name of the intermediary that was used and what I inferred if you want, but.." Beth tsk-tsks, shaking her head, "Like many people of such stature, I suppose that they didn't want to get directly involved with those lilly white hands they have."
[23:01] <Shamal> "Of course," Shamal nods agreeably. "Layers within layers, we all must start somewhere. Who was the middleman then, Beth?"
[23:10] <Kotono> "Some old guy - looked like a scholar or something. Mannered and polite, but knew what to say. Name was a funny one, too. Irenes, spoke for 'we' and 'our mutual interests' and all that bunk." She nods after that.
[23:13] <Shamal> "Irenes? Well, isn't that interesting... a wizard by that name is already wanted for grand theft arcana here in Balmuria. Looks like his rap sheet's about to get a whole lot bigger," Shamal notes, having no compunctions about giving free information to Beth, since she won't live long enough to do much with it. "What did he look like?" she asks, wanting to make sure it's not a coincidence - unlikely, given the name.
[23:13] <Shamal> name being fairly unusual*
[23:14] <Kotono> "Had this thing on his head - this big brown, but it was like one unibrow. That's what I remember best. It's distinctive." She smirks and shakes her head, "Guy's a wizard? Didn't put him on that...heh. Makes this even more interesting now, and it explains a lot. Interestin', isn't it?"
[23:14] <Kotono> *brow
[23:17] <Shamal> "Very, very interesting," Shamal nods slowly, her voice adopting a slightly droning quality as she idly taps her thumb and forefinger together by her face, using the repetitive motions along with her intonation to try and lull Beth into a hypnotic state.
[23:18] <Shamal> OOC: Hypnotism, DC 16 will save with a -2 penalty
[23:18] <Kotono> roll 1d20+4
[23:18] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+4 and gets 24."12 [1d20=20]
[23:19] <Kotono> Beth just smirks, "Got my little self into something really interesting now, did I?"
[23:20] <Shamal> "Oh, sorry," Shamal blinks after a moment of droning, trying to play it off as absent mindedness, "Yes, was just thinking... nevermind," she shakes her head. "So, what was the pay on offer for the job?" she asks, keeping things moving.
[23:20] <Kotono> As Beth looks away from Shamal, she happens to spy Berlioz. "Bein' quiet today, loverboy?"
[23:21] <Kotono> "35,000 gold. My big break," The assassins mirks, "Have enough after that to buy a small duchy! Someone biiiiig, isn't it?"
[23:22] * Berlioz nods quietly to Beth. "I'm just here as an observer today. Heed me little mind."
[23:23] <Shamal> "Honestly I'd be more worried if the death of a head of state could be procured cheaply," Shamal deadpans. "Even leaving aside the supposedly extinct fungus used in the attempt." Of course, she now has pretty strong suspicions as to where that fungus did come from.
[23:24] <Kotono> "Well, only the best go for this..." Beth trails off, "Fun, ain't it? Say, you think this is gonna get nasty," she ponders a moment.
[23:25] <Shamal> "I saw Lord Salman this morning. I think we're already past 'nasty'," Shamal notes in that same deadpan. "So where did you meet Irenes, and how would payment have been collected?"
[23:26] <Kotono> "No, no, I ain't no fool. I'm talkin' 'bout if the big W comes of this. Boom." Her smirk grows, "Dunno who exactly it was, but it doesn't leave too many possibilities, does it? Payment would be delivered to my home."
[23:26] <Kotono> She ponders a moment, "East or West...either way..." she just smiles.
[23:29] <Shamal> "If we can conclusively identify who hired you, we would of course have to take steps to ensure they do not threaten the United Baronies again. But no sense jumping to conclusions so soon," Shamal hums thoughtfully. "One thing puzzles me, though - Irenes told you of the cure, yes? Mixing the Death Cap with Mountain Aqua Sprigs?"
[23:31] <Kotono> "Nope." She smirks at that, "I did my studies on it on travel. I'd be a fool not to...oh, just in case." Her smile turns catlike at that, sharp as a knife. "Would you throw around something like that without coverin' your ass, girlie?"
[23:33] <Shamal> "That's what puzzles me," Shamal replies curiously. "Given how quickly that poison can debilitate a person, a cure would surely need to be applied instantly, yes? But on your belongings we found no such Sprigs. So how were you planning on curing yourself if you'd had an unfortunate mishap? I don't believe you'd be in any fit state to go hiking, after all."

[Corwin]

[20:10] <Kotono> "Oh, I knew I was dead if I screwed up...if I mishandled the poison, if I got cornered, if I got caught. Some ways would be more painful than others, but...started thinkin'. Got a lot of gold waiting for me if I survive. Best way's not to get caught. Only other way...if some deseperate or high minded officials start talkin' to me and makin' noise about wanting me to spill." She smiles here, grim. "I don't wanna die, ya know."
[20:13] <Shamal> "Mmmhmm," Shamal nods thoughtfully, thinking over what she knows about Mountain Aqua Sprigs.
[20:13] <Kotono> OOC - Knowledge nature, shaman girlie.
[20:13] <Shamal> roll 1d20+14 nature?
[20:13] * Hatbot --> "Shamal rolls 1d20+14 nature? and gets 30."12 [1d20=16]
[20:20] <Shamal> "Let's talk about how you did the deed, then," Shamal decides after a moment's thought. "How did you gain access to the temple and get close enough to poison Lord Salman?"
[20:22] <Kotono> "Slipped in a side door and did some basic recon. Found out what the servants would be wearing and slipped in. It's all trade secrets," She smirks at it, "Move like the wind, silent and unseen."
[20:23] <Shamal> "You weren't dressed like a servant when we found you," the blonde points out.
[20:25] <Kotono> "Made a mistake - took a small detour to ditch the clothes in an alley. Didn't think you'd be that quick, girlie," She shrugs lightly. "No bleeding wonder it paid so well, you're either competent as hell or luckier than Tymora. Or jus' magical, too." Suddenly she snorts, almost laughing. "I got myself mixed up in some high powerin' magic bickerin', didn't I? Irenes on one hand, and you on the other."
[20:26] <Kotono> She does pause, "'splains how you tracked me, too. Rainy streets...pfah. Some magic."
[20:27] <Shamal> "Come now," Shamal smiles pleasantly, "I had a look at that rapier of yours - clearly you're no stranger to arcana, yourself."
[20:29] <Kotono> "Paid and did enough for it!" She banters right back, "Back in my home land, wizard by the name of Jennes made it for me. Gonna ask 'bout that, too? Can't hurt shit with it, but you'll never miss. 'course, that's where the poison comes in."
[20:31] * Shamal shakes her head. "It's not really relevant to the crime - I don't think anyone will care about resisting arrest, compared to the other charges, all things considered."
[20:32] <Kotono> "True enough." She chuckles now, "So tell me, since loverboy's keepin' his cute lips shut - what's next?"
[20:34] <Shamal> "Yessss..." Shamal begins sibilantly, again trying to mesmerise Beth with her last hypnosis spell. "What next, indeed..."
[20:34] <Shamal> OOC: DC 16, will save -2
[20:34] <Kotono> roll 1d20+4
[20:34] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+4 and gets 22."12 [1d20=18]
[20:35] <Kotono> Beth grins, "Ya sound like one of those fancy conners at the corner now, waving a pendulum around and sayin' that you'll get them to remember things they lost."
[20:40] <Shamal> "Oh, sorry," Shamal blinks and shakes her head, "Just lost in thought for a moment. I believe I'm done for now - if I have any more questions I'll know where to find you, I'm sure."
[20:41] <Kotono> "Yep..." She ponders a moment, licking her lips, "Have fun with that, and you two, loverboy," With a rakish grin she relaxes, "Got nothin' better to do now, do I?"
[20:44] <Shamal> "You could always work on a stirring speech for your trial to see if you can sway the judge into finding mercy despite your obvious guilt," Shamal replies breezily. "It would no doubt be a legendary display of oratory."
[20:45] * Berlioz (~assis_san@200.175.229.41.adsl.gvt.net.br) has joined #dunes
[20:45] * ChanServ sets mode: +o Berlioz
[20:46] <Kotono> So the two exit out of the cell... OOC - Balls are in your courts, talk or say what you want to do.
[20:51] * Berlioz sighs. "Well, that didn't go as well as I'd expect, buuuuuuuut. If Beth is right, we have a recurring thorn in our side."
[20:56] <Shamal> "The description of Irenes does match," Shamal notes, frowning. "Come on, let's go report in - I think we should re-examine those followers of Irenes that we apprehended previously."
[20:57] * Berlioz nods and follows along. "Damned plot thickens."
[21:03] * Hotaru (~dragomirs@225-52-77-204.sptc.mnscu.edu) has joined #dunes
[21:03] * ChanServ sets mode: +ao Hotaru Hotaru
[21:05] * Hotaru is now known as Lyselle
[21:06] <Kotono> It comes from two ways. Berlioz and Shamal go back to find Commander Oberuth, yawning and waiting. However, Lyselle is already there, just saluting and being told to sit.
[21:07] <Kotono> Yawning in the meeting room, Commander Oberuth looks them over, "...oh, good. Sit down and get to it," he says, right to the poitn.
[21:08] * Berlioz sits down, glancing to Shamal with a slight grin. "Your turn, nature damsel."
[21:08] * Lyselle takes her seat, raising an eyebrow at her two remaining companions.
[21:09] <Shamal> "Lord Salman's ailment has proven resistant to the spells of both myself and the high priest of Waukeen," Shamal begins without preamble. "I suspect it would take sixth circle magic at the very least to heal him. Failing that, however, there may be a non-magical cure."
[21:11] <Kotono> "Wonderful. Exactly what I wanted to hear." Taking a deep breath out, you see that your commander looks exhausted, "How fast can we have it prepared?"
[21:13] <Shamal> "The cure requires a Mountain Aqua Sprig - they're reasonably common in the Galkass Mountains, so if none can be found in Balmuria, I could probably procure some and be back within three to four days at most," Shamal explains. "I will note that this 'cure' does come from the assassin, so it is by no means certain. However, it is all we have at the moment."
[21:17] <Kotono> "She's talking? Good." A breath is taken in and out, deepening and tired. "Gather it as fast as you can. Will you need help?"
[21:17] * Shamal shakes her head. "I can move faster through the wilderness alone. There is more, however," she holds up her hand. "You remember our friend Irenes? Apparently he acted as the middleman in procuring the assassin's services."
[21:18] <Kotono> Oberuth's tiredness vanishes in a mere moment. He rubs his eyes, going straighter in his seat. "...I see. How well was he connected to others? What do you know about him?"
[21:20] <Shamal> "Very little, sadly," the blonde admits. "We know he originally hails from Malmuth, and he has a strong interest in gnomish artifacts, but as to his allegiances we can only speculate. I would strongly suggest, however, that if his followers here in Balmuria have been released, that they be taken back into custody at once."
[21:21] <Kotono> "Ooooh, we didn't do anything foolish like that. They're still sitting in very quiet and well locked cells." Smiling a little at that, "Malmuth possibly connected, but it doesn't sound like anything strong enough to be a definitive link. As for the rest, the gnomes again. Hmph."
[21:22] <Shamal> "The poison used has been thought extinct for a long time. I'd hazard a guess that he found it in a gnomish ruin - or if not him then whomever he works for," Shamal surmises.
[21:24] <Kotono> "Wonderful," Oberuth breathes out at that, deeply sagging. "Very well. While this is relevant, it's not enough to cast blame on Malmuth, so the issue of the gnomish ruins can wait a few days. Get the fastest horse you can find and leave as soon as possible, Shamal."
[21:25] <Shamal> "I'll leave right away, sir," the blonde salutes and turns to depart.
[21:25] <Kotono> "Also, since we've seen no activity at the border..." Oberuth shrugs thereafter, "If Malmuth is connected, they aren't immediately following through. However it turns out, we can hope our external matters won't explode shortly."
[21:26] <Kotono> With a nod to Shamal as she leaves, Oberuth turns to the others. "I need sleep," he annouces without fanfare. "Khardon's running a large part of things as well - you can report to him, as I think I'll be down for awhile. Dismissed, he's keeping office in the temple of Waukeen."
[21:27] * Berlioz nods briefly and gets up, taking leave. This last string of events certainly took a toll on Oberuth's mental and physical health.
[21:27] * Lyselle nods, still resting a hand on Frozen Oath, nor wanting really to take that hand away. "We'll try to keep a few extra eyes on things," she agrees lightly, gettng up and saluting before leaving.
[21:30] <Kotono> So out the two go. The town beams down with light, a sunny day with only a few puddles remaining from the rainstorm. The city is still subdued, guards highly visible and working. On reaching the Temple of Waukeen, you note that you see no traders today, only soldiers. Khardon keeps office in the grand hall, the same table Oberuth used, ad eep backed chair commandered. He listens to a soldier reporting, making a shooing gesture as he sees Lysel
[21:31] <Kotono> sees Lyselle and Berlioz approach.
[21:37] * Lyselle glances at Berlioz, pushing back one of the tiny strands of hair that escape her braiding and the coronet of intertwined hair that circles her forehead. Stepping forward, she offers a formal smile, saluting. "Commander Oberuth indicated slumber was in his future, and that we should put ourselves at M'lord's disposal."
[21:38] <Kotono> "Right, right," Kicking his feet onto the table adn leaning back, "I believe the civilised way of saying this is that our balls are caught in the wagonwheels. We're undermanned and halfway to a state of war in one night. How's the bigger situation, I've been handling all the mundane patrolling information."
[21:41] * Berlioz adjusts his monocle, shaking his head. "Not the best of worlds, truth be told. Shamal's off on an errand that may or may not save Salman's life, and the middleman on the assassination attempt is actually a now recurring figure in our investigations."
[21:43] <Kotono> "Oh, wonderful." Khardon snorts, "This day's going to be a classic before the noon meal. So then, you're just going to love this." Clearing his throat, "Since we're short and in a near panic, we need capable hands to take care of issues. I have two hear, neither of which are entirely capable for normal soldiers in any event."
[21:47] <Lyselle> "And these would be...?" Lyselle prompts, giving default ascent in the question, tapping one finger on the pommel of her sword.
[21:49] <Kotono> "While I'll leave the meat of the other matter to your normal commander, since I'm just playing fill in? Though...by the way, who is the irritation that so needs a pointed lesson from us about manners? Anyway, a soldier was found washed up against the docks today, sick and feverish. He was on patrol last night at the docks. Secondly?" (More)
[21:54] <Kotono> Steepling his hands, "I don't know if this was an overexcited or over drunk towsman or reality, but we received a report of a ghoul sighting. Considering the circumstances, I think it would be advisable to cover our flanks and at least peek into it." A pause as he kicks his legs up, "Preference, M'lady and M'lord," he smirks just a bit, "We don't need side issues recurring whilst we deal with all this."
[22:02] * Berlioz (~assis_san@200.175.229.41.adsl.gvt.net.br) Quit (Ping timeout)
[22:08] * Lyselle gives a shrug, snorting a bit. "I haven't gotten rid of my mace yet, ghoul, probably," Lyselle says, hmphing. "Well, and steel armor doesn't float terribly well."
[22:13] <Kotono> "All good points." Going to lean back deeper, "The man's staying in the Dawn Pointe Inn. Apparently it happened near there as well."
[22:18] <Lyselle> "A familiar area of town..." Lyselle agrees, glancing at Berlioz and snorting a little. "Spend a little too much time iin thaat area...anyway, seems like it." Lyselle shrugs, sighing internally at the everpresent reccurrence of things.
[22:25] * Lyselle (~dragomirs@225-52-77-204.sptc.mnscu.edu) Quit (Mrf work. -=SysReset 2.53=-)
[22:26] * Berlioz (~assis_san@201.22.135.177.adsl.gvt.net.br) has joined #dunes
[22:26] * ChanServ sets mode: +o Berlioz
[22:28] * Berlioz sighs. "Seems like phantoms of the past are all coming back at once to bite our legs until they're nothing but bones. The timing is -very- suspect."
[22:30] <Kotono> "Isn't it? Even if some of it is simply rotten fortune...the manure has been stirred and shaken." Wrinkling his nose, "If we're lucky the ghoul thing is nothing, but from what I understand the hag issue is more complex."
[22:32] <Berlioz> "Everything that's been happening is recurring. And, considering who was the middleman in the assassination attempt, I sorely doubt this is a coincidence. Seems like a rather coordinated assault."
[22:34] <Kotono> "Well then, Mr. Monocle?" Smiling a bit, "The man's name is Pierstone. Get going, he's staying at the Dawn Pointe Inn. Let's work on coordinating solutions to our irritating problems. Do try not to destroy anything while you're there, hm? I hear stories about the Dawn Pointe Inn - the furniture has such a bad time of it."
[22:35] * Berlioz grumbles. "That was certainly not my fault, sir. Blame a certain Donald paladin who overstayed his welcome in Balmuria. Regardless, I'll get there post-haste. Good luck, sir."
[22:37] <Kotono> "I didn't say it was," Khardon laughs merrily, the dark mood lifting on his face. "I'd merely heard of it. Between that, the talk of the ghouls and now these awards..hm. I suppose that puts you on three pieces of town gossip. Making a name for yourselves?"
[22:39] * Berlioz nods. "Seems like trouble likes staying afoot when the Crimson Guard is around. At least, we're not being heralded as incompetent morons around these parts... or so I'd hope", the bard finishes with an acid grin.
[22:39] <Kotono> Khardon just smirks at that, "Wellt hen, don't give them a reason to. Now then...as much as I'd love to talk to our silent golden haired princess, do get going." With that, Khardon waves you off.
[22:41] * Berlioz salutes firmly, and takes off. Lyselle can follow along, unless she likes being dragged off by vitriolic bards with questionable physical prowess.
[23:00] * Lyselle (~dragomirs@225-52-77-204.sptc.mnscu.edu) has joined #dunes
[23:00] * ChanServ sets mode: +ao Lyselle Lyselle
[23:05] <Kotono> The Dawn Pointe Inn is quiet as the two approach it. The day is subdued, the butcher shop next door closed. Even with the sun out, a somber pall hangs over the city. The door the inn is closed, the entire place just...quiet.
[23:08] * Berlioz approaches the inn, a mildly uncomfortable expression visible. The bard rubs his forehead. "Well."
[23:08] <Lyselle> "Hm?" Lyselle asks, looking over at Berlioz. "Something wrong?" she asks lightly, eyeing the man.
[23:10] <Berlioz> "Just a bit unnerved by the overall atmosphere around. I don't mind quiet, but this is downright eerie. Regardless...", the bard leaves the phrase hanging, heading to the inn and knocking the door.
[23:12] <Kotono> The door is not locked, opening a bit when Berlioz knocks. Inside, you see the inn keeper, a woman yawning. Her features are tired, heavy black bags under her eyes. "Welcome...g'day," she murmurs, "Oh, it's the guard again. You types keep coming around."
[23:14] * Berlioz shakes his head, stepping inside, the feeling of awkwardness still strong. "Sadly, it's not unexpected, considering the hectic recent past. We are here to talk to a man named Pierstone, and we were informed that he is currently lodged in this inn."
[23:15] * Lyselle nods, smiling wryly at the poor inn keeper. "Things just seem to happen."
[23:15] <Kotono> "Oh...oh yes. Second floor, room 201. First one left of the stairs..." The woman yawns again, fetching a key and laying it on the table besides her. "It's been so interesting here lately. The guard keeps coming and I have such fas..." ANother yawn, "Fascinating guests. Hm?"
[23:17] * Berlioz rubs his temples, slightly annoyed, and grabs the keys shortly afterwards. "... fascinating guests? I hope this isn't yet another sign of trouble. And, for such an interesting place, you seem rather bored, lady."
[23:19] <Kotono> "I'm...not." She struggles not to yawn, rubbing her eyes instead. "Just..hard to get a lot of sleepw ith all this excitement?" she offers this hopefully, smiling despite how her eyes are darklined, body sagging.
[23:19] * Lyselle smiles a bit, nodding. "Such is how things are in the busy and interesting parts of the city..." she agrees, glancing at Berlioz, since he holds the key.
[23:20] * Berlioz nods darkly. "I can understand that. Seems like people can barely sleep these last few days", the bard speaks softly. "Well, we're going up. Thank you, lady", Berlioz finishes and begins heading up.

[Corwin]

[21:22] * Lyselle nods to the innkeeper again, heading up behind Berlioz.
[21:22] <Kotono> To the second floor you go. The room's door is closed, the hall quiet. It just waits for anyone to come by...
[21:23] * Berlioz knocks on the door softly.
[21:25] <Kotono> You get a muffled, "Coming!" on that knock, the door soon opening. A pudgy, quiet looking man answers the door, skin unhealthy gray and not hidden well enough by a size too small tunic. "Come in, come in. You're part of the city guard?"
[21:25] * Berlioz nods blankly. "Yes, sir."
[21:26] * Lyselle nods, offering the same faint and polite smile. "That would be us, yes."
[21:26] <Kotono> He steps back into the plain, basic inn room. "I've heard the city guard's good at this, so it's a good day indeed. I never thought I'd see anything like that."
[21:29] * Berlioz scratches his head, nodding. "Um. What happened?"
[21:31] <Kotono> Plopping down on the bed, the man scratches his stomach. His hair is a bit greasy, but his face is clean. "I was out last night when it happened - the dreadful thing with the Archduke. I came back a little late, and I passed through an alleyway to save some time. In the street, even with the rain, I saw it!" He pauses for breath, rubbing his sides.
[21:32] * Lyselle steps inside the room, closing the door behind them and listening to the story as her smile fades. "Then what happened?"
[21:34] <Kotono> "I saw it - it was ambling in the street, groaning along. It had it's back hunched, going towards this very inn!" A shiver as he says that, "I stared even after it passed, but when I came out, I didn't see it and no one else had."
[21:35] * Lyselle frowns, tapping the pommel of her sword thoughtfully with one finger. "Had you heard stories about the previous ghoul incidents in the city?"
[21:36] <Kotono> "I did," he admits, "They're still talked about in the bars when you ask for information. A brave group of guardsman routed them, I heard." His voice is slow, a little hard to hear. "I don't believe they actually exist, but I saw it. There's no way that ...thing was alive."
[21:42] * Berlioz grumbles. "... are you absolutely certain about this, sir? What did 'that thing' look like, first things first?"
[21:42] * Lyselle nods, glancing over at Berlioz. "Was there anything particularly notable about the ghoul? Identifiable clothing, objects, was it a hunchback or just sort of hunched over out of posture?"
[21:43] <Kotono> "It's skin was pallid pale with streaks of gray. It's mouth was opened, it smelled horrible. Like rotted meat." A deep, dank shiver again, "It was hunched over, and it's clothes were old and dirty. Maybe it was just a leper, but that skin and that smell.."
[21:44] <Lyselle> "No other items adorning it?" Lyselle presses after a moment.
[21:44] <Kotono> A shake of  his head, "Not that I saw, just that dirty clothing." A curious tilt of his head at that, waiting.
[21:47] <Lyselle> Lyselle shrugs, glancing over at Berlioz. "Not the same group of corpses, at least," she tells her companion, reviewing things. "Which alley was it precisely?"
[21:47] <Kotono> "I can show you if you want," Pierstone gets up, "It's not too -ooph- far."
[21:49] <Lyselle> "That'd be helpful," Lyselle nods, stepping aside to let the man lead them.
[21:50] <Kotono> So back outside you go. Past the yawning innkeeper woman, looking exhausted. Past the butchery shop in the quiet day, a few tangs of meat and blood tingling your noses. To an alley a bit down the street, relatively clean and unremarkable. In front of it he stands, a few feet out. "Right here."
[21:55] * Lyselle nods, looking to Berlioz. "Anything more you can think of?" she asks both the males present, pushing at blonde strands that always seem to get loose around her ears.
[21:57] <Kotono> "I think it drooled or something here, but it was raining, so..." He shrugs and coughs, looking down. "It would've washed away anything anyway."
[21:58] * Berlioz sighs. "This makes its trail inconveniently obscure. Do you have any idea if it was following a direction or just randomly strolling around?"
[21:59] <Kotono> "I don't know," he admits, "I, well..." He looks away, "I froze up. Maybe you can find it if you know this area better?"
[22:01] * Carthrat-Sleep (~Bill@c58-107-63-64.eburwd7.vic.optusnet.com.au) Quit (TIMINGU~)
[22:04] * Lyselle nods. "We'll take a look around for anything useful...what direction was it coming from?"
[22:04] <Kotono> He considers just a moment, "I think...that way," he points away, continuing away from the inn.
[22:06] * Lyselle nods again, wishing things could just be solved with divination. "Thank you for your time, then, we'll look into it from here. Unless my partner has any further questions..."
[22:08] * Berlioz sighs, shaking his head. "No, not really."
[22:09] <Kotono> "Okay," the man agrees, nodding once before nearly waddling back towards the inn.
[22:10] * Lyselle looks to Berlioz once again as the man goes out of earshot. "Thoughts? Didn't have the gold medallion, disappeared shortly..."
[22:14] * Berlioz sighs. "It seems that they're more likely to be a part in a string of distractions than a menace on their own, quite frankly. These aren't the same ghouls we dealt with, I think. And their objectives are probably more defined."
[22:16] * Lyselle nods. "If in fact, they are ghouls. I'm beginning to suspect illusions given the manner in which they vanish," Lyselle agrees, starting to inspect the alley, the street, ad the like, taking her time for careful look around and prodding. "We should make a search of this, and then report the odd circumstances...there isn't a whole lot we can do after the fact unless we want to stake it out."
[22:18] * Berlioz nods wistfully. "There... yeah, we don't have a bevy of choices here. This... it's probably Irenes, isn't it."
[22:20] <Kotono> A half hour of searching suits Lyselle well. Most of what she finds are still occasionally damp cobblestones or the like, a few small puddles here and there. There's some trash and a forgotten pile of horse waste in one corner. However, the butcher's shop smells quite strong, the smell of not so good meat coming from that building. There are old bloodstains around it.
[22:21] <Lyselle> "To be paranoid," Lyselle starts, as she carefully prods around takes her itme inspecting the area. "It could be Irenes giving us a run around, it could be Malmuth trying to divert our attention to civil matters, so that either we deal with them, or we face domestic unrest because the guard can't handle their undead problem...or any number of plots.
[22:21] <Lyselle> It could be the gnomes coming back to life to take over a city once their's," Lyselle offers, laughing very quietly as she finishes her search, frowning after a moment. "...Let's take a look into this shop, the meat smells less than fresh cut."
[22:25] <Kotono> The butchery's front door is closed, you notice. It's windows have heavy curtains placed over them, preventing ou from seeing inside.
[22:32] * Lyselle reaches up, rapping lightly on the door. "So really...this could just be anything, it's too vague to make much of a judgement."
[22:32] * Berlioz nods. "We could return here at night. We're more likely to find what we're looking for."
[22:33] <Kotono> The door knock sounds, but nothing happens. It's still quiet here, aside from your chatting and the knocking on the door.
[22:34] <Lyselle> "...Probably, and I've got a faintly bad feeling. We might want to wait for Shamal, or at least have back up within reach," she nods, stepping back and turning. "So now we report?"
[22:37] * Berlioz bites his lips, agreeing somberly. "Yes. Not much we can do right now."
[22:41] <Kotono> So the party returns! The day passes, little to do but waiting. Soon enough, however, a rider returns. Shamal comes back with the promised materials, the party meeting Khardon in the still commandered hall of Waukeen. "Well then..." A breath, "Let's be brief. Inform me of what happened, while Shamal goes to make her preparations?"
[22:41] * Ebiris is now known as Shamal
[22:42] * Shamal barely stops to say hello before going to get the mushrooms and then return home to her alchemy lab so she can make the (assumed) cure.
[22:43] <Kotono> OOC - Okay, #evil to quickly dealwith that.

<--->

[20:40] <Kotono> Okay. Going to combine things up?
[20:41] <Shamal> Yep, going to make two doses, one for me to test and one for Salman. I'll also cast detect poison on the combined result before testing on myself just in case there's anything obvious.
[20:42] <Kotono> Okay. Hmm. We'll call this alchemy.
[20:42] <Shamal> roll 1d20+12 alchemy (guidance)
[20:42] <Reiko-chan> 1,0Shamal rolled :1,0 1d20+12 1,0alchemy (guidance) --> 1,0[ 1d20=3 ]12,0{15}
[20:42] * Shamal facepalms.
[20:43] <Kotono> The first attempt fails! While I'll assume you're not being too uncautious, you to get some exposure to the poison and waste a bit of the material.
[20:43] <Kotono> roll 1d6
[20:43] <Reiko-chan> 1,0Kotono rolled :1,0 1d6 --> 1,0[ 1d6=1 ]12,0{1}
[20:44] * Shamal tries again, this time taking 10 for a result of 21.
[20:46] <Kotono> This time Shamal is able to combine the two materials. While a bit was lost, there's enough for two doses still.
[20:48] <Shamal> With two vials of the presumed cure, Shamal securely bags up what's left of the evil death mushrooms (evidence!) and cleans all the surfaces around the lab with prestidigitation to avoid contamination. That done, she casts detect poison and takes a look at the two vials.
[20:48] <Kotono> The vials are not poisonous at all.
[20:48] <Kotono> They are a light blue shade, almost like water with just a tint of color. It doesn't even smell bad at all now.
[20:48] <Shamal> Excellent! Putting both of them in her belt pouch, she hurries to the temple of Waukeen!

<--->

[22:44] * Lyselle just offers Shamal a wave and a smile before turning back to Khardon. "Upon interviewing Pierstone, we've concluded that it's not the same group of ghouls as before, if it's even ghouls. He described it disappearing, so it remains a possibility there could've been an illusion. No evidence was found in the area, but now that Shamal's back, there's a suspicious butcher shop we'd like to investigate."
[22:45] <Kotono> "Damnable irritations. Next you'll see gnomes in the sky," he says with a tiny chuckle, nonetheless warming up. "Once we've resolved Lord Salman's condition, by all means. Anything else of note regarding this?"
[22:47] * Lyselle shakes her head. "Other than the suspect nature of the butcher shop, I wouldn't say so. Everything seemed purely normal other than the sighting."
[22:48] <Kotono> "Odd. I had inquiries go into the docks, but no more sightings or any unusual sea occurances, or disease ridden madams of the ocean." A small msile at that, "I suppose your coming dignity is still intact, Berlioz?"
[22:50] * Berlioz snickers dryly. "Has it ever been, really?"
[22:50] <Kotono> "Well, you could serve M'lady?" Khardon banters back, "I would imagine Lyselle to be a fair and just mistress, no?"
[22:51] <Berlioz> "She has her own interests in mind, and they're far away from a Southerner. It's not like I have my eyes set on her, either. Regardless", the bard adjusts his monocle and coughs.
[22:52] <Kotono> "Oh yes, well, I suppose she wishes for other things," Khardon coughs delicately, "Such things beyond the reckoning ken of mere commoners, but I can assure you that it is not a bad thing."
[22:53] * Lyselle rolls her eyes, a faint muttering of 'men' as she offers a light smile at Khardon. "Most would think the wintery rocks of our northern homes make us harsh...that's the opinion of mostherners, anyway."
[22:53] <Lyselle> *most southerners
[22:53] <Kotono> As Lyselle laughs and mutters, a speedy Shamal soon returns. Khardon rises at her arrival, "Let's go," he says, smile gone as he quickly begins to head back.
[22:55] * Shamal hurries into the room where Lord Salman is resting before she fumbles in her belt, taking out one of the blue vials. "I made two doses, just in case - it doesn't seem to be poisonous anymore, but I'm going to test it on myself first. I hope someone has a neutralise poison spell handy if I'm wrong," Shamal explains, only sounding just a tiny bit nervous.
[22:55] <Kotono> "I'll call for the head priest if you are," Khardon says, waving his hand. Lord Salman still rests, pallid and barely breathing. The guards by his bed look on, interest in their eyes.
[22:56] * Shamal waits for the Waukeenar to arrive before she pops off the cap on her solution. "Bottom's up," she grins weakly, before tossing the blue liquid down her throat.
[22:57] <Kotono> It tastes faintly like mushrooms and spring water. On drinking it, SHamal feels no different than before.
[22:57] * Shamal remains almost motionless, simply standing and waiting...
[22:57] <Kotono> Nothing happens. Shamal feels fine, as Khardon watches on. "Well? You aren't seeing the Gods beckoning you home, are you?"
[22:59] <Shamal> After a minute elapses, the blonde sags in relief. "Okay, I think it's safe," she confirms, before going to the head of Lord Salman's bed and lifting his head up before she pours the other vial into his mouth, tilting his head back and gently stroking his throat to encourage swallowing.
[23:00] * Lyselle murmurs a few prayers to Helm as they wait, having but only such to offer her liege.
[23:00] <Kotono> Within seconds after swallowing, Lord Salman takes a deep breath in! His bearded face shows a sudden ruddiness that was missing, his breathing a score times over stronger. His arms twitch, then his mid section, then his legs. Moving, testing.
[23:01] <Shamal> "It's working!" Shamal exclaims jubilently, deciding to toss on a lesser restoration spell to speed things up, hoping the magic will take now that the poison is no longer ravaging Salman's innards.
[23:01] <Kotono> "I daresay that it looks to be working..." Khardon exhales out like a hammer striking metal.
[23:02] <Kotono> Lord Salman stirs at this, an incoherent but solid moan as Shamal casts potent magic on him. His color is returning as you watch, the magic making it speed along. He takes another breath and then two more, each filling up his lungs entirely, exhaled slowly.
[23:03] <Shamal> roll 1d4 if it's actually worth something
[23:03] * Hatbot --> "Shamal rolls 1d4 if it's actually worth something and gets 3."12 [1d4=3]
[23:03] <Kotono> "Thank Lathander..." One of the guards murmurs quietly, watching with rapt attention.
[23:04] * Lyselle just smiles quietly. "And we can hope that that's the last..."
[23:05] <Kotono> "I would wish so, but I doubt it even more raptly," Khardon murmurs out of the side of his mouth, and then after clearing his throat, "Guard, go send word to Commander Oberut immediately, so the good news can be spread."
[23:05] <Shamal> "Mielikki be praised," Shamal smiles in palpable relief, standing up straight now as her lord appears to be on the road to recover. "Whatever happens now, at least we still have Lord Salman to lead us through it."
[23:07] <Kotono> "Speaking of..." Khardon mutters to himself, as Salman stirs once more, "Tell me, any preferences on the sort of bounty we put on the head of this Irenes? REally now, it would set such a bad example to let him go spellcasting along his merry way after this."
[23:10] <Shamal> "Thirty five thousand was what he offered Beth," Shamal observes. "I'd hope we can at least match that... although we may be setting our sights too low if Irenes was just an intermediary."
[23:10] * Berlioz folds his arms, eyes sighting the ground. "I'm not sure if any bounty would be high enough in the eyes of the Balmurian, quite frankly. I'd just slap an arbitrary value on that."
[23:11] <Kotono> "Still, he would be a nice start." Khardon watches as Lord Salman stirs again, this time cracking his eyes open. He coughs, voice strangled.
[23:13] <Shamal> "Ah, I believe Lord Salman could use something to drink," Shamal says, looking around to see if there's any liquid refreshment handy.
[23:14] <Kotono> There's some water that can be found on a table.
[23:15] <Berlioz> "After our last woes with this, I think you might want to guarantee it's not causing any problems, Shamal."
[23:15] <Kotono> Khardon turns sharply, "I would hope not," he murmurs, "The water should be safe."
[23:16] * Shamal winces. "I already used my only spell to detect poison when making the cure, Berlioz. I'd hope the current security arrangements would stop anyone getting poison into our Lord's bedchambers."
[23:16] <Shamal> "But if I must..." Shamal takes a swig of the water herself and waits a moment.
[23:17] <Kotono> Shamal feels fine, besides that the water's a little too warm for her tastes.
[23:17] <Shamal> "Bit warm," she observes, using her still running prestidigitation effect to reduce it to a more cool temperature before helping Salman to sit up and offering him a drink to soothe his throat.
[23:18] <Kotono> The water is drank down, Lord Salman coughing at the end. "Ugh..." With that he lies back down, "Did I get ill? I can't remember."
[23:19] <Lyselle> "Poison, my lord," Lyselle offers quietly, hands folded in front of her.
[23:19] <Kotono> "...I see it failed, if I'm here," He says, voice rasping minorly. "Have you captured the poisoner?"
[23:21] <Kotono> "The first one, but there's evidence of deeper wrongdoing," Khardon says, quite restrained and bland. "The Crimson Guard directly apprenended the poisoner before she escaped the city, but deeper elements remain at large."
[23:22] <Shamal> "Yes. It was a most uncommon poison - the ravages it caused were availed naught by magic, although the assassin told us of the cure in hopes of being shown mercy," Shamal relates, wondering how exactly she feels about Beth being shown mercy. She didn't have to tell them the cure, but at the same time, can they really afford not to punish her to the fullest extent? In a way she's glad it's not her decision.
[23:23] <Kotono> "I see...I see." He coughs, "Done well..." He licks his lips, "But I fear I need more rest. Go on for now."
[23:23] <Shamal> "By your leave," Shamal bows and retreats.
[23:25] * Lyselle adds her own deep bow, smiling warmly to her lord before she slips out of the room behind Shamal.

[Corwin]

[20:33] <Kotono> -------
[20:35] <Kotono> The party gathers together in the garrison jailcells. These are guarded well now, soldiers quite keenly at attention. They salute snappily as the Crimson Guard passes by, heading towards Beth's cell. She sits on the ground, awake this time as she awaits. An uneaten bowl of thin cruel rests besides her, untouched.
[20:36] <Shamal> "Hello, Beth," Shamal greets the assassin as she enters the cell. "Not a fan of prison cuisine, I take it?"
[20:38] <Kotono> *gruel
[20:38] <Kotono> "I'd rather catch one of the wall rats," she snorts, looking up to you with narrowed eyes. "Guessin' it's worked if you're coming back to see me, girlie?"
[20:44] <Shamal> "Shockingly enough, yes," the blonde affirms. "Which means your chances of being executed have gone down just a bit. Honestly, I suspect things will come down to just how generous Lord Salman is feeling on the day your case is heard, but I will testify on your behalf - how much weight my voice will carry, I can't really say."
[20:45] <Kotono> "Well now," Looking about to each, to quiet Lyselle and then Berlioz, "You even brought loverboy along to tell me this. So then, you wanna squeeze me some more, eh?"
[20:46] * Lyselle glances at Berlioz, lifting a curious eyebrow and smirking just a bit as she looks at the bard.
[20:47] * Shamal coughs delicately. "How Berlioz chooses to spend his free time is his own concern..."
[20:49] <Kotono> "Heh, heh," Beth smirks right back at the party at that, "So what are you gonna ask of ol' me?"
[20:51] * Shamal clears her throat before she begins to intone the phrasing from the scroll found on Beth when she was arrested, her voice soft and soothing to hopefully lull Beth into a more suggestive state. "Third stone, past the lighting splitted tree. Archeon's Celestia. The greenest point of the high mountain. Ascending past the red line. Dejeon." Hoping that the hynosis effect took hold, she concludes, "What does that mean?"
[20:51] <Shamal> OOC: DC 16 will save, -2
[20:51] <Kotono> roll 1d20+4
[20:51] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+4 and gets 12."12 [1d20=8]
[20:52] <Kotono> OOC - Roll your 2d4.
[20:53] <Shamal> roll 2d4
[20:53] * Hatbot --> "Shamal rolls 2d4 and gets 3."12 [2d4=1, 2]
[20:56] <Kotono> Listening along, Beth smiles slowly. "Mmmm...Those are interestin', ain't they?" she allows, "It's a seeeecrit. But, guess I can't say that here, can I? Damn." Her smirk fades, "Tell ya what, I'll be straight with you. Only one part o' it relates to anything around here. Rest of it's back home or on the way there."
[20:56] <Shamal> "You never actually did say where home is," Shamal notes, "But let's start with what relates to near here."
[20:57] * Lyselle (~dragomirs@225-52-77-204.sptc.mnscu.edu) Quit (Mrf. -=SysReset 2.53=-)
[21:00] <Kotono> "Fine, fine. I ain't gonna carry all my loot 'round, yeah? Travel light when in town, jus' what you need to get the job done. 'Course, since lot of it's on the fly, gotta have reminders. Somethin' that doesn't make much sense to anyone but myself, yeah?" She smirks at this again, picking up." (More)
[21:02] <Kotono> "First one's telling me where I hid my travel supplies and basics. Others are talkin' about more important stuff. Last one, heh, can't remember that no matter how I press my brain. Best way to protect somethin' is to pay up, right? Best stuff money can buy, yeah? Got 'nough money in my hometown, ol' J'll make ya anything. You got serious magic, you ain't gotta steal. You can just sit back and make shit."
[21:04] <Shamal> "You often have a problem with forgetting where you left your belongings?" Shamal asks dubiously.
[21:05] <Kotono> "Ain't gonna take any chances," she allows, "'sides..." Smiling now, "Say I do fuck up. More questions some nosy ol' girlie has to ask me, better chances of survivin'. 'Course, best way is to avoid being caugh, but here I am anyways. Say there, you're thinkin' 'What so good could be in that cache? Blood money? Stolen loot? Gems? Magic?'"
[21:08] <Shamal> "Honestly, I was hoping it had some relevance to your most recent job," Shamal admits with a shrug, sounding slightly disappointed.
[21:10] * Lyselle (~dragomirs@225-52-77-204.sptc.mnscu.edu) has joined #dunes
[21:10] * ChanServ sets mode: +ao Lyselle Lyselle
[21:10] <Kotono> "Welp, if riches an' money ain't your thing, I can't help ya much, can I?" she shrugs, casting a quick gaze to Berlioz. "Loverboy, maybe you should be talking some sense into blondie here. I see that rapier there, but you'd just love to use mine with the right preparations."
[21:10] <Kotono> *bet
[21:12] * Berlioz sighs. "I'm not here for poorly constructed innuendo, today."
[21:13] <Kotono> "Naw, I mean the good stuff. Take down somethin' with barely hurtin' them. Little of that on the blade, or a smear of this...more deadly than a dozen longswords, yeah?" Beth keeps her smirk up, sitting as upright as her bindings allow.
[21:14] <Shamal> "Most poisons tend to be illegal," Shamal comments idly, deciding to hang back and let Berlioz and Beth enjoy their banter for now.
[21:19] <Kotono> "Well, that ain't my problem," she admits honestly, "Handin' you the tools o' the trade, loverboy."
[21:27] * Berlioz (~assis_san@201.47.167.244.adsl.gvt.net.br) Quit (Ping timeout)
[21:37] <Kotono> Berlioz nods blankly, "I think we're done here," he murmurs.
[21:40] <Kotono> So the party is finished, exiting out! With words given they head towards the Dawn Pointe Inn and it's butcher's shop next door. It's showing signs of life again, the door open and evne a few people passing by. The mood on the street has improved, the warm airs increasing. It's a pleasant day, the Baronies safe again - for now.
[21:45] <Shamal> "I really should learn that spell that lets you detect undead magically," Shamal mutters to herself as they approach the scene of the ghoul sighting.
[21:46] <Kotono> As you approach, you can see the street is non descript. Inside the butcher's shop,  you can see in the door. It's dark in there, but cuts of meat can be seen on display. As you approach, you see the inn keeper of the Dawn Pointe Inn head out from the butcher's shop, a cloth sack carried behind her.
[21:46] <Lyselle> "The butcher shop made me kind of suspicious," Lyselle offers faintly to Shamal, frowning. "It had curtains around it...the meat wasn't what I'd call fresh if my nose wasn't acting up," she adds, heading towards the shop again.
[21:47] <Kotono> The curtains are still up, you see. The door is open, however. You can smell meat as you approach, meat with an undercurrent of charnel and blood.
[21:49] <Shamal> "Well, it's not that unexpected - nobody really wants to see what goes on inside a butcher's, do they?" Shamal smiles, telling Laika to sit and wait.
[21:49] <Kotono> Laika sits and waits, but does sniff the air a lot.
[21:50] <Lyselle> "I'd almost think you'd want to keep the place aired out," Lyselle answers lightly, shrugging as she ducks inside the place, looking around.
[21:50] <Shamal> "True," Shamal concedes, following Lyselle inside.
[21:52] <Kotono> Berlioz follows blankly. Inside are a few hanging rumps of meat, pigs, sheep and chicken. A few open air cases hold steaks, ground meat, stew meat, livers and all other sorts of butchery. The scent of meat tinges your noses, fresh and bloody. There isn't a lot of light, just some candles and a single latern on a table in the middle. It's a strange effect, casting a lot of shadows. "Welcome!" From the back's there - he wears a leather apron, th
[21:53] <Kotono>  he wears a leather apron, thick and bloodstained. (More)
[21:54] <Kotono> His head is bald and a bit flabby, as his entire body. Just a bit too much weight on a tall fellow, making his skin sag. His eyes are sharp green ones, voice a deep timbre. "Can I help you with anything?"
[21:54] <Kotono> roll 1d20+3
[21:54] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+3 and gets 16."12 [1d20=13]
[21:54] <Kotono> He squints a moment, narrowing his eyes. "Oooh, guardsmen. Crimson Guard, too. Can I help you?"
[21:59] * Lyselle nods, making a short bow. "We were curious...there's been a few abnormal occurences in this area, around the inn in particular...so we thought we'd come by and ask if you've seen anything recently that's out of place?"
[22:00] <Kotono> "Nothing that I can think of," he stands tall, hanging back. "I opened here because it's quiet and the inn makes sure I have steady business. It's never failed to live up to that."
[22:04] <Lyselle> "Haven't heard anything, seen anything, or that like?" Lyselle prods a little further, taking a long, good look around. "Do you see much business other than the inn?"
[22:06] <Kotono> It's not a large room -t here's a door on the left and a heavy door to the back. The scent of meat still lingers in the air, heavy and thick. "I have a few regulars. People who I know and come here, people who like my cuts, that sort of thing." He smiles genially, his eyes narrowing as he does.
[22:10] <Shamal> "So you've been in business here for a while, then?" Shamal asks conversationally, not really having much to contribute at the moment.
[22:11] * Lyselle nods, smiling easily as she looks around again, eyeing a certain piece of meat speculatively.
[22:12] <Kotono> "A few years," he says quite agreeably, slapping his stomach. He licks his lips after, rubbing a hand over his bald head. His features shake a little, rubbing his nose. It's a sharp little nose when the layer of flab is moved, pointed.
[22:13] <Kotono> Lyselle looks around, eventually seeing a steak. It's a well cut steak, probably a good meal to be had in it. "Like that one," he asks, as Lyselle views it. "Fresh from the cow."
[22:14] * Berlioz (~assis_san@200.175.229.241.adsl.gvt.net.br) has joined #dunes
[22:14] * ChanServ sets mode: +o Berlioz
[22:23] * Berlioz coughs lightly, trying to disguise the dystics of Detect Thoughts this way. The bard quickly tries to scry the butcher's surface thoughts once the casting is done.
[22:23] * Lyselle nods, smiling faintly. "I may come back later, guard business presses, though."
[22:23] <Kotono> roll 1d20+4
[22:23] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+4 and gets 5."12 [1d20=1]
[22:24] * Lyselle (~dragomirs@225-52-77-204.sptc.mnscu.edu) Quit (Mrf. -=SysReset 2.53=-)
[22:24] <Kotono> "Come on by," he smiles a little at that, rubbing his hands together.
[22:27] <Berlioz> "Hm. I guess so. This butchery seems innocent enough", the bard deadpans.
[22:28] <Shamal> "Thank you for your time," Shamal nods and follows Lyselle out.
[22:28] <Kotono> "It's just a butcher's shop," he agrees, hands falling to his sides with a look at Berlioz. "Please, I'm not invovled in anything illegal!" With a scowl, he turns away.
[22:30] <Shamal> "You didn't need to be so confrontational, Berlioz," Shamal says reprovingly once they're outside. "We have no evidence of wrongdoing."
[22:33] * Berlioz sighs. "Hey, I didn't accuse him of anything. Even though he had slightly suspicious thoughts. He -was- hiding something."
[22:34] <Kotono> As the party heads out, the butcher comes out and closes the door. A sign is put ont he door,s aying 'Closed for lunch'.
[22:34] * Berlioz looks back and snickers. "Way to not raise suspicions..."
[22:36] <Shamal> "I suppose we can stop by the temple of Waukeen and see if they have any scrolls of detect undead for sale. I can give the place a quick look over with that if you think there's a need," Shamal offers reluctantly. Being a witch is expensive...
[22:38] * Berlioz sighs. "I could share the expenses with you if that's such a hassle. It's probably just fair."
[22:40] <Shamal> "Considering the scroll costs just a bit less than our monthly salary, I think that'd be nice," Shamal nods affirmatively. "So what was so suspicious, anyway?" she asks, beckoning Laika to follow and starting towards the temple district.
[22:40] <Kotono> Laika follows along as you leave the Dawn Pointe Inn and the next door butcher behind. Lyselle follows, silent for now.
[22:44] <Berlioz> "He was uncomfortable with the questions, mostly. And not in the way a normal person would be. He was hoping we'd ask generic questions and nothing else. And he got a bit... say... distressed when I deadpanned just before we left."
[22:45] <Shamal> "Hmm... well, we'll see if magic reveals anything, and can put the place under surveillance even if not," Shamal nods as they stroll along to the temple of Waukeen.
[22:47] <Kotono> So the scroll is bought, the Dawn Pointe Inn returned to! The butcher's shop next door is still closed for lunch, you note. It's quiet around here, a tired looking traveler going to the Inn nextdoor.
[22:48] * Berlioz grumbles. "Well, this is a somewhat long lunchtime."
[22:49] <Shamal> "We haven't been gone that long," Shamal shrugs. "We're just used to shorter lunches since we get worked so hard. Anyway, the ghoul was seen in the alley beside the butcher's, yes?"
[22:50] <Berlioz> "I think so", the bard mutters. "Although... eh, nevermind."
[22:51] <Kotono> Lyselle checks her braid over, nodding to herself.
[22:53] * Shamal shrugs at that mysterious comment and reads off the scroll, giving her the mystical ability to detect the undead! That done, she makes a circuit around the butcher's, looking this way and that, but mostly towards the interior of the shop.
[22:54] <Kotono> As you pass deep into the alley, the farthest back side has a two moderate auras you can detect. OOC - Caster level check.
[22:55] * Lyselle (~dragomirs@225-52-77-204.sptc.mnscu.edu) has joined #dunes
[22:55] * ChanServ sets mode: +ao Lyselle Lyselle
[22:55] <Shamal> roll 1d20+2
[22:55] * Hatbot --> "Shamal rolls 1d20+2 and gets 8."12 [1d20=6]
[22:55] <Kotono> There are two moderate auras, well back at the rear of the butchery.
[22:56] <Shamal> "Guilty!" Shamal chirps, walking around to the back of the building closest to the auras to see if there are any other entrances.
[22:56] * Berlioz snickers. "Well, at least we have a reason to keep the investigation up."
[22:57] <Kotono> Going all the way around, you come to the end. There's just a stone wall here in the back, just enough room for a walk around. There is indeed a back door, with a heavy iron lock on it.
[22:58] * Lyselle smiles faintly to herself, nodding and resting a hand on her sword again. "So I guess we do have something interesting on our hands..."
[22:59] <Shamal> "A pity Seira isn't here... Although I suppose we now have probable cause to simply go in the front and demand a proper search - there's two moderate undead auras right past that door. Probably ghouls," Shamal explains to her friends.
[23:01] * Berlioz grumbles. "Figures she'd be elsewhere when we actually need her. We will probably have to break in sooner or later - I'm not sold on that butcher letting us peek on that."
[23:06] <Shamal> "He doesn't really have a choice," Shamal notes. "Come on, let's get this dealt with," she declares, marching back around to the front and taking a moment to cast Shield on herself and Laika before heading inside, assuming the door isn't locked.
[23:06] * Berlioz shrugs, following the chipper blonde.
[23:07] <Kotono> The door to the front doesn't open. You feel something resisting it, like a deadbolt or bar.
[23:09] <Shamal> "Lyselle, take Laika and watch the back door in case they try to sneak out?" Shamal suggests to her fellow blonde, keeping an eye on the undead auras as she bangs on the door after giving Lyselle and Laika a moment to get moving. "Open up, this is the Crimson Guard!"
[23:09] <Kotono> They're moving just a little bit forward, but not much. Fromb ehind the door, you hear, "What do you want?" the butcher calls back out.
[23:12] <Shamal> "We need to carry out a search of the premises - open up at once!" Shamal calls back insistently.
[23:13] <Kotono> There a pause ... ... No reply.
[23:15] <Shamal> "If you do not open the door we will break it down!" Shamal calls, before muttering under her breath a chant. "Infernus Gladius..." as a blade of fire springs to life in her hand!
[23:16] <Kotono> No response again.
[23:17] <Kotono> You notice the inn keeper of the Dawn Pointe opening her door a little away, looking on but not speaking.
[23:19] <Shamal> "You were warned!" Shamal concludes, taking note of the undead auras before she pokes the blade of flame through the door level with the lock, trying to burn through the bolt.
[23:20] <Shamal> roll 1d8+1
[23:20] * Hatbot --> "Shamal rolls 1d8+1 and gets 7."12 [1d8=6]
[23:20] <Kotono> With a flaming poke, the blade burns through the door! As the wood begins to spark and smoke, Shamal's blade goes all the way through!
[23:21] <Shamal> Withdrawing the blade, Shamal kicks the door open, ready to kick ass and take names for the law!

[Corwin]

[21:04] <Kotono> As this happens, Lyselle and Laika head to the back! OOC - #Evil.
[19:02] <Kotono> ---
[19:03] <Kotono> Lyselle and Laika head to the back door. It's quite an unusual back door - most don't have old bloodstains worn into the ground, but most places aren't butcheries. The door looms, the day still quiet as you hear Shamal call something.
[19:05] <Lyselle> Lyselle doesn't wait on mutch with the particular sounds that Shamal is making. Frozen Oath whips out and slashes at the door handle, smashing through and into the lock to rip it from the door.
[19:05] <Lyselle> roll 1d20+11
[19:05] <Reiko-chan> 1,0Lyselle rolled :1,0 1d20+11 --> 1,0[ 1d20=9 ]12,0{20}
[19:06] <Kotono> OOC - No to hit roll, it's not dodging or anything. Just roll damage.
[19:06] <Lyselle> roll 1d8+6+1d2
[19:06] <Reiko-chan> 1,0Lyselle rolled :1,0 1d8+6+1d2 --> 1,0[ 1d8=4 1d2=1 ]12,0{11}
[19:07] <Kotono> With a fell swoop Lyselle achieves her aims! The door handle is broken, lock severed! Ice rims the edges of the cut, as the door is jarred!
[19:08] <Lyselle> Lyselle kicks open the door and marches in with her shield held before her!
[19:12] <Kotono> Inside is a small little receiving room. It's only about five feet wide and barely any deeper, another plain door ahead. There's a few barrels here, some straw and a few broken knives and hooks.
[19:13] * Lyselle moves forward, trying to head through the next door and deeper into this infestated building.
[19:14] <Kotono> This door isn't locked. In here is another shallow room, a storage. Goods are staked up here, supplies. A six or seven foot long and wide room - and at the other end, the door is open! You can see two ghouls shambling out into a great meat processing room!
[19:16] * Lyselle moves forward deliberately, slashing out as soon as she's in range to take down the closest ghoul.
[19:18] <Kotono> OOC - Looks like you're going to flow into #dunes, so roll initiative in there.

[Corwin]

[21:04] <Kotono> The door flies open! Inside you see the butcher's shop, the door to the back swinging closed!
[21:06] <Shamal> Invoking the divine favour of Helm upon herself, Shamal promply marches over to the now closed door and kicks it open as well!
[21:10] * Berlioz follows the druid blonde. "You know, this feels awfully like a blitz."
[21:11] <Kotono> As the door isn't locked, it opens quite easily! Inside is:
[21:11] <Shamal> "The lack of cooperation and obvious undead auras are all the clues I need," Shamal replies firmly, not planning on making the same mistake she made in pussy footing around with that scroll-stealing jerk.
[21:12] * Berlioz snickers. "I'm not disagreeing with you, there."
[21:13] <Kotono> You see it in a few frames, the door swinging wide open! A medium sized room, moderately big. First and foremost are the hooks - butcher's hooks, slabs of meat hanging. Dozens of them, a full day's production. A few tables are about, half butchered cows and chickens on them. They're flat with little grooves on the side, where blood flows down and into small barrels. The smell of charnal is overwhelming, the floor stained red. It's hard to see
[21:15] <Kotono> It's hard to see between the tables and hanging meat, light only coming from a few wall candles. Shadows dance madly around, the small wisps of flame flickering with the door's wind!  On the far end is another door, just creaking open! (More)
[21:17] <Kotono> They shamble in, bloated bodies colored purple, as if forever denied air! They reek of death, teaming with the smell hear to turn your stomach! OOC - Spot checks andi nitiative.
[21:17] <Shamal> roll 1d20+10
[21:17] * Shamal sets mode: +v Hatbot
[21:17] <Shamal> roll 1d20+10
[21:17] * Hatbot --> "Shamal rolls 1d20+10 and gets 13."12 [1d20=3]
[21:19] <Berlioz> roll 1d20+1 spot
[21:19] * Hatbot --> "Berlioz rolls 1d20+1 spot and gets 2."12 [1d20=1]
[21:21] <Lyselle> roll 1d20+2 initiative
[21:21] * Hatbot --> "Lyselle rolls 1d20+2 initiative and gets 7."12 [1d20=5]
[21:21] <Shamal> roll 1d20+2 Shamal
[21:21] * Hatbot --> "Shamal rolls 1d20+2 Shamal and gets 11."12 [1d20=9]
[21:22] <Shamal> roll 1d20+3 Laika
[21:22] * Hatbot --> "Shamal rolls 1d20+3 Laika and gets 10."12 [1d20=7]
[21:22] <Kotono> As the party can just see behind theg houls, they can see Lyselle and Laika approaching! Lyselle can smell the horrid, stomach churning maelstrom of odor here, ghouls and fresh meat mixing into a horrible mess!
[21:22] <Kotono> OOC - Spot as well, Lyselle and Laika.
[21:22] <Lyselle> roll 1d20+1
[21:22] * Hatbot --> "Lyselle rolls 1d20+1 and gets 19."12 [1d20=18]
[21:22] <Shamal> roll 1d20+5
[21:22] * Hatbot --> "Shamal rolls 1d20+5 and gets 12."12 [1d20=7]
[21:22] <Berlioz> roll 1d20+1 the difference between being Raquel and Jude
[21:22] * Hatbot --> "Berlioz rolls 1d20+1 the difference between being Raquel and Jude and gets 5."12 [1d20=4]
[21:23] <Kotono> roll 1d20+3 g1
[21:23] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+3 g1 and gets 16."12 [1d20=13]
[21:23] <Kotono> roll 1d20+3 g2
[21:23] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+3 g2 and gets 19."12 [1d20=16]
[21:23] <Kotono> roll 1d20+6 ????
[21:23] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+6 ???? and gets 19."12 [1d20=13]
[21:24] * Kotono changes topic to '????=G2(19)G1(16)>Shamal(11)>Laika(10)>Lyselle(7)>Berli(5)'
[21:25] <Kotono> The first ghoul ambles forward, about reaching halfway through the room! You note it's movement is impeded by the hanging meat and tables, the room surely hard going. The second ambles forward as well, following! OOC - Shamal.
[21:27] * Shamal steps forward to the nearest ghoul, slicing out with her flame blade to eviscerate the undead horror!
[21:27] <Shamal> roll 1d20+5 melee touch
[21:27] * Hatbot --> "Shamal rolls 1d20+5 melee touch and gets 9."12 [1d20=4]
[21:29] <Kotono> Shamal slashes out, cutting through a ham and making it smoke! But the ghoul manages to weave back just a bit, rocking away from the strike's flaming intensity! It's rotten eyes fixate on the fire, wary! "....flame..." It's mouth works the words out, guttral and dry. OOC - ???? is acting now.
[21:29] * Kotono changes topic to 'G2(19)G1(16)>Shamal=????(11)>Laika(10)>Lyselle(7)>Berli(5)'
[21:31] <Kotono> From one of the tables near Shamal it erupts out, leaping forth! The owner of the butchery screams out, a giant cleaver in it's hand! It's over two feet long, bloodied from countless acts of butchering! His face is a mask of animalistic, sharp fury, weapon coming down at Shamal!
[21:31] <Kotono> roll 1d20+9
[21:31] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+9 and gets 24."12 [1d20=15]
[21:32] <Kotono> roll 2d4+7+2d6
[21:32] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 2d4+7+2d6 and gets 12."12 [2d4=2, 1][2d6=1, 1]
[21:33] <Kotono> The blade dances across Shamal's chest and finishes by ripping up, a shallow cut across the cleft of her chin! He licks his lips as blood flows, eyes tinted red as he lands in a near crouch. "Cut ya up...cut ya up...c'mon, lady, cut ya up!"
[21:33] <Kotono> OOC - Laika.
[21:35] <Shamal> "Ahhh!" Shamal cries, staggering back at the horrific wound even as Laika growls in canine fury and lunges towards the butcher to try and tear his throat out!
[21:35] <Shamal> roll 1d20+9
[21:35] * Hatbot --> "Shamal rolls 1d20+9 and gets 27."12 [1d20=18]
[21:35] <Kotono> OOC - Hit.
[21:35] <Shamal> roll 1d6+4
[21:35] * Hatbot --> "Shamal rolls 1d6+4 and gets 6."12 [1d6=2]
[21:35] <Shamal> roll 1d20+4 trip check
[21:35] * Hatbot --> "Shamal rolls 1d20+4 trip check and gets 6."12 [1d20=2]
[21:35] <Kotono> roll 1d20+6
[21:35] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+6 and gets 22."12 [1d20=16]
[21:36] <Kotono> The rip into the butcher's shoulder is quick! HIs flabby skin is torn, Laika pushed off! A near geyser of blood flies out, gushing and sprawing all around from a minor wound! The butcher grins fearlessly! "Cut ya up...cut ya up...cut yaaaaa uppppp!" OOC - Lyselle.
[21:38] <Lyselle> Lyselle's expression is dark as she moves up behind the ghouls, suppressing any emotional response to try and keep her thoughts as cold and rational as her sword, lashing out quickly against a ghoul, trying to eliminate the undead first.
[21:38] <Lyselle> roll 1d20+11
[21:38] * Hatbot --> "Lyselle rolls 1d20+11 and gets 15."12 [1d20=4]
[21:39] <Kotono> But the ghoul attacked is a little too fast, the minor wound not even breaking it's skin! OOC - Berli.
[21:40] <Lyselle> roll 1d20+2
[21:40] * Hatbot --> "Lyselle rolls 1d20+2 and gets 3."12 [1d20=1]
[21:44] * Berlioz mutters, and begins chanting the dystics for Hideous Laughter, eyes targetting the mad butcher.
[21:44] <Kotono> roll 1d20+4
[21:44] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+4 and gets 5."12 [1d20=1]
[21:46] <Kotono> The butcher laughs! Such simple words are not fitting, as it quakes with laughter! Despite the horrid stench in the air and the dances the stomachs of the heroes so valiantly wish to do, he laughs! He roars in laughter, rocking back and forth! His laughter echos heavily!
[21:47] <Kotono> The heroes all note that they're beginning to feel very stomach sick, the smell of this place nigh overwhelming. OOC - Ghouls are up.
[21:47] <Shamal> "I'm glad someone's amused..." Shamal notes bitterly as she nurses her wound and stays on guard against the ghouls.
[21:47] <Kotono> The ghoul Lyselle attacked returns the favor! It turns, unleashing it's bites and claws!
[21:48] <Kotono> roll 1d20+5 bite
[21:48] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+5 bite and gets 7."12 [1d20=2]
[21:48] <Kotono> roll 1d20+3 claws
[21:48] <Kotono> roll 1d20+3 claws
[21:48] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+3 claws and gets 5."12 [1d20=2]
[21:48] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+3 claws and gets 14."12 [1d20=11]
[21:48] <Kotono> Yet Lyselle expertly parries away each and every attack, pushing the ghoul back with her shield at the end! THe second turns, going after the bloodied Shamal! "...bloooooood...!"
[21:48] <Kotono> roll 1d20+5 bite
[21:48] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+5 bite and gets 10."12 [1d20=5]
[21:48] <Kotono> roll 1d20+3 claws
[21:48] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+3 claws and gets 20."12 [1d20=17]
[21:48] <Kotono> roll 1d20+3 claws
[21:48] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+3 claws and gets 13."12 [1d20=10]
[21:49] <Kotono> roll 1d4+1 and make a fort save, Shamal.
[21:49] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d4+1 and make a fort save, Shamal. and gets 3."12 [1d4=2]
[21:49] <Shamal> roll 1d20+6
[21:49] * Hatbot --> "Shamal rolls 1d20+6 and gets 13."12 [1d20=7]
[21:49] <Kotono> roll 1d4+1
[21:49] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d4+1 and gets 5."12 [1d4=4]
[21:50] * Berlioz sets mode: -v Hatbot
[21:50] * Berlioz sets mode: +v Reiko-chan
[21:51] <Kotono> Shamal ducks away from the bite, but the ghoul is relentless! It charges headfirst, a claw swipe getting SHamal's ribs! It's a deep wound, a single claw burying inside! Shamal feels her body lock up, undead toxin taking effect! OOC - Paralysed for 5 rounds.
[21:51] <Kotono> Shamal is paralysed, unable to move! The butcher continues to laugh, a hearty festival of it's amusement! OOC - Laika.
[21:53] <Shamal> Seeing her mistress in yet more peril, Laika leaves the merry butcher alone and tackles the ghoul menacing Shamal in an effort to bring it down and end its threat!
[21:53] <Shamal> roll 1d20+7
[21:53] <Reiko-chan> 1,0Shamal rolled :1,0 1d20+7 --> 1,0[ 1d20=16 ]12,0{23}
[21:53] <Shamal> roll 1d6+4
[21:53] <Reiko-chan> 1,0Shamal rolled :1,0 1d6+4 --> 1,0[ 1d6=1 ]12,0{5}
[21:53] <Shamal> roll 1d20+4 trip check
[21:53] <Reiko-chan> 1,0Shamal rolled :1,0 1d20+4 1,0trip check --> 1,0[ 1d20=2 ]12,0{6}
[21:54] <Kotono> roll 1d20+3 trip
[21:54] <Reiko-chan> 1,0Kotono rolled :1,0 1d20+3 1,0trip --> 1,0[ 1d20=20 ]12,0{23}
[21:55] <Kotono> The ghoul is bit, a part of it's arm coming off! It's only slowed a bit, not taken down! "Fooood..." It stares at Shamal's bleeding wounds! OOC - LYselle.
[21:55] <Lyselle> Lyselle tries again, slashing with cool detachment, or her attempt at it, focusing on the icy fog that floats off her sword to keep her calm as it comes down on the ghoul
[21:55] <Lyselle> *ghoul.
[21:55] <Lyselle> roll 1d20+11
[21:56] <Reiko-chan> 1,0Lyselle rolled :1,0 1d20+11 --> 1,0[ 1d20=20 ]12,0{31}
[21:56] <Lyselle> roll 1d8+6+1d2
[21:56] <Reiko-chan> 1,0Lyselle rolled :1,0 1d8+6+1d2 --> 1,0[ 1d8=6 1d2=2 ]12,0{14}
[21:57] <Kotono> This blow is expertly placed, maximum effect as the ghoul's left arm is sliced, blade passing into it's chest! It's nearly cut in two, body flopping along but still up! This gets it's attention, a cry coming from it's long dry lips! OOC - Berlioz.
[21:58] * Ebiris (WinNT@user-5442936c.l1.c6.dsl.pol.co.uk) has joined #dunes
[21:58] * Shamal (WinNT@user-5442936c.l1.c6.dsl.pol.co.uk) Quit (NickServ (GHOST command used by Ebiris))
[21:58] * Ebiris is now known as Shamal
[21:58] * ChanServ sets mode: +ao Shamal Shamal
[22:03] * Berlioz clears his throat and calls forth a tale of bravery against all odds - including the ones of overwhelming stench against a giggling butcher. (OOC: Inspire Courage. I'm buying Summon: Loligoth in the next level.)
[22:04] <Kotono> The party notes the stench is starting to get to them. Stomachs are soured, a desire to get out of here beginning to bloom - but it's not too bad. Yet.
[22:04] <Kotono> The first, unwounded ghoul continues it's tactics, right in Lyselle's face!
[22:04] <Kotono> roll 1d20+5 bite
[22:04] <Reiko-chan> 1,0Kotono rolled :1,0 1d20+5 1,0bite --> 1,0[ 1d20=16 ]12,0{21}
[22:04] <Kotono> roll 1d20+3 claw
[22:04] <Reiko-chan> 1,0Kotono rolled :1,0 1d20+3 1,0claw --> 1,0[ 1d20=13 ]12,0{16}
[22:04] <Kotono> roll 1d20+3 claw
[22:04] <Reiko-chan> 1,0Kotono rolled :1,0 1d20+3 1,0claw --> 1,0[ 1d20=20 ]12,0{23}
[22:04] <Kotono> roll 1d20+3 claw crit check
[22:04] <Reiko-chan> 1,0Kotono rolled :1,0 1d20+3 1,0claw crit check --> 1,0[ 1d20=8 ]12,0{11}
[22:06] <Kotono> roll 1d4+1 and make a fort save, L-chan
[22:06] <Reiko-chan> 1,0Kotono rolled :1,0 1d4+1 1,0and make a fort save, L-chan --> 1,0[ 1d4=4 ]12,0{5}
[22:07] <Lyselle> roll 1d20+7
[22:07] <Reiko-chan> 1,0Lyselle rolled :1,0 1d20+7 --> 1,0[ 1d20=13 ]12,0{20}
[22:08] <Kotono> Lyselle is stricken! Amid the combat the ghoul slashes her face, scoring a direct hit! It's not deep but it's enough to sway poor Lyselle! She feels her body try and freeze up, but her inner energy resists, keeping her moving! Meanwhile, the second ghoul looks torn by target - and indeed, it's also torn! With a pause, it lunges at Laika!
[22:08] <Kotono> roll 1d20+5
[22:08] <Reiko-chan> 1,0Kotono rolled :1,0 1d20+5 --> 1,0[ 1d20=4 ]12,0{9}
[22:08] <Kotono> roll 1d20+3
[22:08] <Reiko-chan> 1,0Kotono rolled :1,0 1d20+3 --> 1,0[ 1d20=9 ]12,0{12}
[22:08] <Kotono> roll 1d20+3
[22:08] <Reiko-chan> 1,0Kotono rolled :1,0 1d20+3 --> 1,0[ 1d20=19 ]12,0{22}
[22:09] <Kotono> roll 1d4+1 and make a fort save, doggie.
[22:09] <Reiko-chan> 1,0Kotono rolled :1,0 1d4+1 1,0and make a fort save, doggie. --> 1,0[ 1d4=3 ]12,0{4}
[22:09] <Shamal> roll 1d20+7
[22:09] <Reiko-chan> 1,0Shamal rolled :1,0 1d20+7 --> 1,0[ 1d20=3 ]12,0{10}
[22:09] <Kotono> roll 1d4+1 iu
[22:09] <Reiko-chan> 1,0Kotono rolled :1,0 1d4+1 1,0iu --> 1,0[ 1d4=4 ]12,0{5}
[22:10] <Kotono> It's not much of a wound, to be fair - just a raking across Laika's stomachside! BUt it's enough to freeze her up, totally paralysed! Meanwhile, the butcher laughs, minor would still trickling too much blood and Shamal paralysed! (2/5 for both of them.) Laika is also frozen! (1/5) OOC - Lyselle.
[22:13] <Lyselle> Lyselle wishes sincerely to her heart that undead didn't have this paralysis effect as she continues to fight, slashing and attacking at the monster closest to Lyselle, trying to make sure it never reaches the witch!
[22:13] <Lyselle> roll 1d20+11
[22:13] <Reiko-chan> 1,0Lyselle rolled :1,0 1d20+11 --> 1,0[ 1d20=18 ]12,0{29}
[22:13] <Lyselle> roll 1d8+6+1d2
[22:13] <Reiko-chan> 1,0Lyselle rolled :1,0 1d8+6+1d2 --> 1,0[ 1d8=8 1d2=2 ]12,0{16}
[22:15] <Kotono> With a perfect blow, Lyselle disects the ghoul in two! It falls apart, nary a sound as it's cleaved! A bit of ghoul falls on the paralysed SHamal, but not anything sharp or chewy! OOC - Berlioz.
[22:16] * Berlioz interrupts his song, beginning the dystics of Cure Light Wounds towards Shamal.
[22:16] <Berlioz> roll 2d4+5 please don't Saul me
[22:16] <Reiko-chan> 1,0Berlioz rolled :1,0 2d4+5 1,0please don't Saul me --> 1,0[ 2d4=5 ]12,0{10}
[22:16] * Kotono changes topic to 'G1(16)>Shamal=????(11)>Laika(10)>Lyselle(7)>Berli(5)'
[22:17] <Lyselle> roll 1d8+1
[22:17] <Reiko-chan> 1,0Lyselle rolled :1,0 1d8+1 --> 1,0[ 1d8=4 ]12,0{5}
[22:18] <Kotono> Berlioz has a pale golden light encompass Shamal's wounds, mending them with pure magic! As the battle rages, the party feels their stomachs turn massively, exposure beginning to get to them! OOC - Fort saves.
[22:18] <Shamal> roll 1d20+6 Shamal
[22:18] <Reiko-chan> 1,0Shamal rolled :1,0 1d20+6 1,0Shamal --> 1,0[ 1d20=4 ]12,0{10}
[22:18] <Shamal> roll 1d20+7 Laika
[22:18] <Reiko-chan> 1,0Shamal rolled :1,0 1d20+7 1,0Laika --> 1,0[ 1d20=7 ]12,0{14}
[22:18] <Lyselle> roll 1d20+7
[22:18] <Reiko-chan> 1,0Lyselle rolled :1,0 1d20+7 --> 1,0[ 1d20=6 ]12,0{13}
[22:19] <Berlioz> roll 1d20+1
[22:19] <Reiko-chan> 1,0Berlioz rolled :1,0 1d20+1 --> 1,0[ 1d20=14 ]12,0{15}
[22:20] <Kotono> The party is ablet o hold on, despite the stench that fills the room! The ghoul on Lyselle continues, clawing and slasing at the brave blonde!
[22:20] <Kotono> roll 1d20+5 bite
[22:20] <Reiko-chan> 1,0Kotono rolled :1,0 1d20+5 1,0bite --> 1,0[ 1d20=4 ]12,0{9}
[22:20] <Kotono> roll 1d20+3 claw
[22:20] <Reiko-chan> 1,0Kotono rolled :1,0 1d20+3 1,0claw --> 1,0[ 1d20=12 ]12,0{15}
[22:20] <Kotono> roll 1d20+3 claw
[22:20] <Reiko-chan> 1,0Kotono rolled :1,0 1d20+3 1,0claw --> 1,0[ 1d20=16 ]12,0{19}
[22:21] <Kotono> But each attack is soundly repelled! As this happens Laika is paralysed, unable to act! (2/5) The butcher continues his feast of madness and hilarity, and Shamal can't move! (3/5 both of you.) OOC - Lyselle.
[22:23] <Lyselle> Lyselle just troops on, attacking in a swift and thorough series of blows aimed at dismembering the remaining ghoul piece by piece.
[22:23] <Lyselle> roll 1d20+11
[22:23] <Reiko-chan> 1,0Lyselle rolled :1,0 1d20+11 --> 1,0[ 1d20=17 ]12,0{28}
[22:23] <Lyselle> roll 1d8+6+1d2
[22:23] <Reiko-chan> 1,0Lyselle rolled :1,0 1d8+6+1d2 --> 1,0[ 1d8=8 1d2=1 ]12,0{15}
[22:24] <Kotono> As Lyselle ducks under a swinging shoulder of beef, send moving by the ghoul, she counters with an upward cut! It slices most of the ghoul's chest open, leaving her hanging back safely and unhurt! OOC - Berlioz.
[22:25] <Kotono> The ghoul lives on, despite it's chest cavity ripped open! It's arms hang back horrifically, but it's rotting eyes stay alert!
[22:26] * Berlioz holds his action for a moment, in order to give Lyselle a crack on the laughing butcher.
[22:26] <Berlioz> OOC - Strike that.
[22:27] * Berlioz eyes the ghoul, striking with his rapier for a simple finish.
[22:27] <Berlioz> roll 1d20+4 hiiiiiiiiit
[22:27] <Reiko-chan> 1,0Berlioz rolled :1,0 1d20+4 1,0hiiiiiiiiit --> 1,0[ 1d20=4 ]12,0{8}
[22:28] <Kotono> But Berlioz is parried away, the notched and barbed rapier only catching intot he air! The last ghoul simply continues, toe to toe with Lyselle, nearly draped over her!
[22:28] <Kotono> roll 1d20+5
[22:28] <Reiko-chan> 1,0Kotono rolled :1,0 1d20+5 --> 1,0[ 1d20=12 ]12,0{17}
[22:28] <Kotono> roll 1d20+3
[22:28] <Reiko-chan> 1,0Kotono rolled :1,0 1d20+3 --> 1,0[ 1d20=13 ]12,0{16}
[22:28] <Kotono> roll 1d20+3
[22:28] <Reiko-chan> 1,0Kotono rolled :1,0 1d20+3 --> 1,0[ 1d20=1 ]12,0{4}
[22:28] <Kotono> OOC - Ooops, almost forgot.
[22:28] <Kotono> OOC - Fort saves, all.
[22:28] <Lyselle> roll 1d20+7
[22:28] <Reiko-chan> 1,0Lyselle rolled :1,0 1d20+7 --> 1,0[ 1d20=20 ]12,0{27}
[22:29] <Shamal> roll 1d20+6 Shamal
[22:29] <Reiko-chan> 1,0Shamal rolled :1,0 1d20+6 1,0Shamal --> 1,0[ 1d20=20 ]12,0{26}
[22:29] <Shamal> roll 1d20+7 Laika
[22:29] <Reiko-chan> 1,0Shamal rolled :1,0 1d20+7 1,0Laika --> 1,0[ 1d20=16 ]12,0{23}
[22:29] <Berlioz> roll 1d20+1 fort save
[22:29] <Reiko-chan> 1,0Berlioz rolled :1,0 1d20+1 1,0fort save --> 1,0[ 1d20=8 ]12,0{9}
[22:30] <Kotono> As the ghoul misses adn the party battles, the smell continues to plauge them! Berlioz feels horrifically sickened, body crying out for mercy and stomach protesting!
[22:31] <Kotono> Meanwhile, laughter and paralysis continues unabated! (4/5 for the butcher'n'blonde, 3/5 for doggie.) OOC - Lyselle.
[22:33] <Lyselle> Lyselle tries to finally end this undead menace, her shield put forward to fend it off as she lashes at its lower body with her sword, trying to just keep it to practiced, reflexive motions. It's just a dummy, nothing to get angry about...
[22:33] <Lyselle> roll 1d20+11
[22:33] <Reiko-chan> 1,0Lyselle rolled :1,0 1d20+11 --> 1,0[ 1d20=13 ]12,0{24}
[22:33] <Lyselle> roll 1d8+6+1d2
[22:33] <Reiko-chan> 1,0Lyselle rolled :1,0 1d8+6+1d2 --> 1,0[ 1d8=8 1d2=2 ]12,0{16}
[22:34] <Lyselle> roll 1d20
[22:34] <Reiko-chan> 1,0Lyselle rolled :1,0 1d20 --> 1,0[ 1d20=17 ]12,0{17}
[22:37] <Kotono> With an swing of pure, icy skill, Lyselle cuts the ghoul's last tie from life, head send to the table, landing into a barrel of blood! The splash is heady and noisy, breaking up the thickness of combat! Her face is composed, an ice like calm over it. OOC - Berlioz.
[22:42] * Berlioz holds his action, a hand over his belly as if he was trying to keep his stomach from exploding.
[22:42] <Kotono> Meanwhile, the room keeps on stinking! OOC - Fort saves, all.
[22:42] <Shamal> roll 1d20+6 Shamal
[22:42] <Reiko-chan> 1,0Shamal rolled :1,0 1d20+6 1,0Shamal --> 1,0[ 1d20=5 ]12,0{11}
[22:42] <Shamal> roll 1d20+7 Laika
[22:42] <Reiko-chan> 1,0Shamal rolled :1,0 1d20+7 1,0Laika --> 1,0[ 1d20=1 ]12,0{8}
[22:42] <Lyselle> roll 1d20+7
[22:42] <Reiko-chan> 1,0Lyselle rolled :1,0 1d20+7 --> 1,0[ 1d20=5 ]12,0{12}
[22:44] <Berlioz> roll 1d20+1 ow
[22:44] <Reiko-chan> 1,0Berlioz rolled :1,0 1d20+1 1,0ow --> 1,0[ 1d20=12 ]12,0{13}
[22:45] <Kotono> The two paralysed heroes feel their stomachs go sick, weakening them! Berlioz is just able to resist getting violently stomach sick, while Lyselle is still unaffected! (5/5 for you guys, can act next. 4/5 for Laika. BLonde, go.)
[22:45] * Lyselle turns her blade on its side, bringing down the flat of the blade straight across the butcher's head!
[22:46] <Lyselle> roll 1d20+7
[22:46] <Reiko-chan> 1,0Lyselle rolled :1,0 1d20+7 --> 1,0[ 1d20=20 ]12,0{27}
[22:47] <Lyselle> roll 1d20+7 crit threat
[22:47] <Kotono> OOC - Crit check, oi.
[22:47] <Reiko-chan> 1,0Lyselle rolled :1,0 1d20+7 1,0crit threat --> 1,0[ 1d20=7 ]12,0{14}
[22:47] <Kotono> OOC - Crit. Damage it up.
[22:47] <Lyselle> roll 2d8+12+2d2
[22:47] <Reiko-chan> 1,0Lyselle rolled :1,0 2d8+12+2d2 --> 1,0[ 2d8=9 2d2=4 ]12,0{25}
[22:49] <Kotono> CLAAAANG! Lyselle lands her blade directly on the crown of his head! The blow is spectacular, echoing like a stricken bell! Except the bell is his skull, knocking the buctcher back several feet as the spell begins to wind down! His face is covered with ice, a horrible lump quickly rising despite it! OOC - Berli.
[22:49] <Kotono> The flabby skin around his head goes flat, visible movements of ...something... underneath flowing downward!
[22:51] * Berlioz remains on hold, holding to his rapier in case something happens.
[22:51] <Kotono> OOC - Fort saves then, gang.
[22:52] <Shamal> roll 1d20+6 Shamal
[22:52] <Reiko-chan> 1,0Shamal rolled :1,0 1d20+6 1,0Shamal --> 1,0[ 1d20=4 ]12,0{10}
[22:52] <Shamal> roll 1d20+7 Laika
[22:52] <Reiko-chan> 1,0Shamal rolled :1,0 1d20+7 1,0Laika --> 1,0[ 1d20=5 ]12,0{12}
[22:52] <Berlioz> roll 1d20+1
[22:52] <Reiko-chan> 1,0Berlioz rolled :1,0 1d20+1 --> 1,0[ 1d20=18 ]12,0{19}
[22:55] <Kotono> roll 1d20+7 Lyselle fort save.
[22:55] <Reiko-chan> 1,0Kotono rolled :1,0 1d20+7 1,0Lyselle fort save. --> 1,0[ 1d20=8 ]12,0{15}
[22:56] <Kotono> While Berlioz and Lyselle continue to resist, Shamal and Laika are nauseated! Just in time for SHamal, as she comes out of her paralysis! Also, the laughing ends! The butcher looks around, wobbling, "Cut...cu...cuuuut..." it drawls, drooling a little bit! Its' eyes are crossed, a terrific lump on it's forehead as it makes a swing at Lyselle!
[22:56] <Kotono> roll 1d20+9
[22:56] <Reiko-chan> 1,0Kotono rolled :1,0 1d20+9 --> 1,0[ 1d20=20 ]12,0{29}
[22:56] <Kotono> roll 1d20+9 crit check oi
[22:56] <Reiko-chan> 1,0Kotono rolled :1,0 1d20+9 1,0crit check oi --> 1,0[ 1d20=4 ]12,0{13}
[22:56] <Kotono> roll 2d4+7
[22:56] <Reiko-chan> 1,0Kotono rolled :1,0 2d4+7 --> 1,0[ 2d4=3 ]12,0{10}
[22:57] <Kotono> OOC - Shamal, you have a move action if you wish to use it.
[22:58] * Shamal groans queasily, wanting to flee into fresh air but unwilling to leave her friends behind.
[22:59] <Kotono> As Shamal finds out she's quite ill, the cleaver cuts into Lyselle's side! A solid if not spectacular wound, a few dribbles of bright red blood coming down in the dim butchery!
[23:02] <Lyselle> Lyselle swings back easily, slashing and attacking with practiced motions of cleaving!
[23:02] <Lyselle> roll 1d20+1
[23:02] <Reiko-chan> 1,0Lyselle rolled :1,0 1d20+1 --> 1,0[ 1d20=2 ]12,0{3}
[23:02] <Lyselle> roll 1d20+11
[23:02] <Reiko-chan> 1,0Lyselle rolled :1,0 1d20+11 --> 1,0[ 1d20=12 ]12,0{23}
[23:03] <Lyselle> roll 1d8+6+!d2
[23:03] <Reiko-chan> 1,0Lyselle rolled :1,0 1d8+6+!d2 --> error: malformed expression
[23:03] <Lyselle> roll 1d8+6+1d2
[23:03] <Reiko-chan> 1,0Lyselle rolled :1,0 1d8+6+1d2 --> 1,0[ 1d8=4 1d2=2 ]12,0{12}
[23:03] * Lyselle (~dragomirs@225-52-77-204.sptc.mnscu.edu) Quit (-=SysReset 2.53=-)
[23:04] <Kotono> The plunge in is a direct slash across his stomach! Flab bursts with a new hole torn in, blood gushing out in an inhuman torrent! It spews out, soaking Lyselle and her sword! As it flows, you note his flab begins to deflate, gallons rushing out! With this, the butcher falls down, flat on his back as his body spews! OOC - Battle's over. Free actions.
[23:05] * Shamal coughs, barely keeping something nasty down her throat before her and Laika both flee back towards the front door of the butcher's, desperately needing to catch their respective breaths.
[23:06] * Berlioz covers his mouth, wincing heavily at the unhealthy - at the ver least - sight. "Oh dear, this is horrifying..."
[23:10] <Kotono> Shamal flees out, fresh air a balm to her! She notes that the inn keep from the Dawn Pointe is lingering just outside, watching. "Ooooh!" she gasps as Shamal and Laika run out. Meanwhile, Berlioz continues to feel quite ill staying in there! OOC - Fort save.
[23:10] * Lyselle (~dragomirs@225-52-77-204.sptc.mnscu.edu) has joined #dunes
[23:10] * ChanServ sets mode: +ao Lyselle Lyselle
[23:12] <Berlioz> roll 1d20+1 I'm getting out of here next action
[23:12] <Reiko-chan> 1,0Berlioz rolled :1,0 1d20+1 1,0I'm getting out of here next action --> 1,0[ 1d20=2 ]12,0{3}
[23:12] <Lyselle> roll 1d20+1
[23:12] <Reiko-chan> 1,0Lyselle rolled :1,0 1d20+1 --> 1,0[ 1d20=17 ]12,0{18}
[23:12] <Lyselle> roll 1d20+7
[23:12] <Reiko-chan> 1,0Lyselle rolled :1,0 1d20+7 --> 1,0[ 1d20=11 ]12,0{18}
[23:13] <Kotono> Berlioz feels his stomach go entirely sour. Urrrk.
[23:13] * Lyselle stares for a moment at the outrush of ungodly amounts of blood, prodding and er...'fishing' in the corpse for whatever the hell was moving...in his head...
[23:14] <Kotono> Blood continues to gush out. You note the 'corpse' is still breathing and deflating, the cut no it's stomach doing quite a good job of that. A few more spurts, flying high into the air. The flab around it is now just loose skin, hanging all over his body.
[23:14] * Shamal wipes her mouth with the back of her hand as she tries to recover her bearings. "Please... go back inside," she weakly tells the innkeeper. "It's not safe to come too close to here." Cleanup sure is going to be messy...
[23:14] * Berlioz flees as fast as possible from the slaughterhouse, barely containing urge to vomit - and there's no certainty that he will not let it out once he leaves the place.
[23:14] <Kotono> "Is something the matter," she holds her hands up to her chest, "S-should I get help?"
[23:14] <Kotono> She nods to Shamal, starting to step back quickly.
[23:15] <Kotono> Berlioz bursts out, finding the clean air excessively pleasing.
[23:15] * Lyselle prods the deflattion a few times, looking for any crawly things.
[23:16] <Shamal> "Just... stay inside," Shamal gets out, coughing. "We'll take care of it."
[23:16] <Kotono> Nothing that Lyselle sees. It's all emptying flab, blood all around it in an inch deep pudd-
[23:16] <Kotono> roll 1d20
[23:16] <Reiko-chan> 1,0Kotono rolled :1,0 1d20 --> 1,0[ 1d20=17 ]12,0{17}
[23:16] * Berlioz curses, his eyes closed, now wiping his mouth with his backpalm. "Mongrel..."
[23:16] <Kotono> Lyselle's hand tingles, the hilt of Frozen Oath oddly sensitive.
[23:16] <Kotono> The inn keep does just that, running inside.
[23:17] * Lyselle frowns, foregoing any more investigation that might end badly, and instead moving out to Shamal and Berlioz. "Could one of you look for a magic aura on me? My hand is tingly and that crawly thing in the skin made me nervous..."
[23:18] * Shamal nods weakly, muttering a brief spell. "Coming," she calls, returning to join Lyselle, but letting Laika stay out in the fresh air.
[23:18] <Shamal> OOC: Detect magic on
[23:19] <Shamal> *she calls, turning to face Lyselle and staying with Laika!
[23:19] <Shamal> roll 1d20+14 guidance
[23:19] <Reiko-chan> 1,0Shamal rolled :1,0 1d20+14 1,0guidance --> 1,0[ 1d20=14 ]12,0{28}
[23:21] <Shamal> "Blast..." the blonde mutters. "Something's disturbed the sword's enchantment - it's intact, but muddled. It may not be safe to use right now."
[23:22] <Kotono> As you talk, you hear a inn's front door open and close.
[23:22] <Lyselle> "...uh oh..." is Lyselle's simple answer, sheathing her blade and sighing.
[23:23] <Berlioz> "I wonder if you could try to revert it, Shamal. You did manage to work the blade out back then, maybe you could repeat the deed?"
[23:24] <Shamal> "It may stabilise on its own. In any case, I lack the magic to do much with it right now," Shamal shakes her head. "For now we need to get this place secured, and see about warning everyone who bought meat here - I've got a bad feeling about this."
[23:25] <Kotono> "...is there a disturbance?" You hear footsteps approaching from the inn, someone coming. His voice is quite low, restrained. "Trouble seems to be joined at the hip with you."
[23:26] <Lyselle> "And you," Lyselle remarks back to who can only be Febras, turnning to face him.
[23:27] <Kotono> Febras pulls his hat down low, chuckling. "I heard from the inn keeper that there was something wrong. Mere curiosity in this case, nothing more."
[23:28] * Shamal eyes Seira's mysterious friend suspiciously. "I'd almost forgotten with all the other excitement lately, but we still haven't discussed your knowledge of the assassination attempt on Lord Salman."
[23:29] <Kotono> "Knowledge?" Febras chuckles again, "I was in the right place at the right time, happy to serve. I had no interest in Lord Salman dying. I hear the assassin has indeed been captured."
[23:30] * Berlioz sighs. "Quite frankly, I somehow doubt you'd be involved with this anyway - you're not quite the type to send skanks to do your work, and being that close to the scene back there wouldn't help your case, either."
[23:31] <Shamal> "The only way you could have known would have been if you were a witness, or if you had prior information," Shamal counters. "Rumours don't spread *that* fast."
[23:31] <Kotono> "
[23:32] * Berlioz shakes his head. "He was a witness of sorts, Shamal. He was talking to me when it happened, and you know I was fairly close to the general vicinity"
[23:32] <Berlioz> *."
[23:32] <Kotono> "I know how to track and I saw it happen, if you must know," Febras's chuckle dissipates into an easy sigh. "Going out and attempting a search was the obvious option. I saw it with Berlioz, as a matter of fact. From there, I simply did my civic duty of anyone who lives in this town.""
[23:36] <Shamal> "Really?" the blonde allows herself to be mollified, somewhat. "I suppose Berlioz would be an acceptable alibi. That being the case, you'll have to excuse us, however - we have work to do and this area is not safe for civilians."
[23:37] <Kotono> "If you wish," Febras looks up just a bit, a flash of a smile glimpsed. "Do be careful, if you will?"
[23:41] <Shamal> With Febras gone, Shamal goes to open the other door in the front room of the butcher's to see what's behind it.
[23:42] * Lyselle follows Shamal, reaching back to the iron mace she keeps for backup, hefting it just in case things get nasty.
[23:43] <Kotono> There's a small room here. Bed, small drawer, chamber pot, that sort of thing. It's not a very big room, surely a bachelor pad.
[23:45] <Shamal> "There's magic back in the room we fought," Shamal adds after a second, going back and taking a glance through the door without going in fully as she tries to pinpoint the location of the aura and identify its nature.
[23:45] <Shamal> roll 1d20+13 spellcraft
[23:45] <Reiko-chan> 1,0Shamal rolled :1,0 1d20+13 1,0spellcraft --> 1,0[ 1d20=9 ]12,0{22}
[23:48] <Kotono> Around the butcher, Shamal can see the aura. Further, all can see that wisps of dark gray/black are coming out from his body, as if smoke from the source.
[23:49] <Shamal> "Lyselle?" Shamal calls for her fellow blonde, pointing to the wisps. "Isn't this like what happened when you killed that abomination in the crypt?"
[23:49] <Lyselle> "...Pretty close, yeah," Lyselle agrees as she comes up behind Shamal, frowning darkly. "Probably why it destabilized the sword..."
[23:52] <Kotono> Wisps continue to flutter out of him, slowly going into the air, fizzling into the stench of the room and out of sight.
[23:53] <Shamal> "Hopefully its current enchantment is solid enough to throw off the change," Shamal looks thoughtful for a moment before shrugging and taking the mostly forgotten leather sling from her belt and tossing it in amongst the wisps. "It was cheap anyway, and at worst nothing will happen," she responds to the unasked question. "At best it might pick up some magic of its own!"
[23:53] <Kotono> OOC - Are you tossing it at teh body or besides it orw hat?
[23:54] <Shamal> OOC: at the focal point the wisps are emanating from. If that means the body then yes.
[23:54] <Kotono> roll 1d20
[23:54] <Reiko-chan> 1,0Kotono rolled :1,0 1d20 --> 1,0[ 1d20=20 ]12,0{20}
[23:56] <Kotono> So tosses, the wisps fly into the thrown sling! As it sits there, the leather turns a midnight gray/black, a single eye showing on it's band. Is it alive? You can't tell, but it does seem to writhe as you see the wisps stop. At this, the body of the man falls apart into blood, flesh melting in moments.
[23:57] <Shamal> "This'll be fun to explain to the commander..." Shamal winces as the body vanishes, before suspiciously studying the sling - is it bearing the same magical aura she sensed from the butcher?
Session Time: Wed Apr 18 00:00:00 2007
[00:00] <Shamal> "Well, it's unstable like the sword was. I might be able to work with it," Shamal shrugs, going to pick up the sling and carefully bundle it up in one of her belt pouches, making sure to tie said pouch closed securely. "Let's search for any more evidence before we get some other guards to lock the place down while we make our report?"
[00:02] <Shamal> roll 1d20+3 search
[00:02] <Reiko-chan> 1,0Shamal rolled :1,0 1d20+3 1,0search --> 1,0[ 1d20=6 ]12,0{9}
[00:03] <Kotono> There's a lot of used butchery supplies. Beyond all that, you don't find much of note beyond two redead ghouls.
[00:04] * Lyselle checks the two barrels she saw in the far back room for thoroughness.
[00:05] <Kotono> One has left over animal bones, small ones. The other holds salt.
[00:07] * Lyselle nods, moving on to rejoin her compatriots.
[00:10] <Kotono> So the party returns. Commander Oberuth waits for them this time, recovered and alert. They meet in the normal meeting room, the Commander grinning, "At ease! I've heard from Lord Salman himself! Good work, good work!"
[00:11] <Shamal> "We have been rather busy," Shamal can't help but note as she settles into the meeting room.
[00:12] * Lyselle nods, saluting and then sitting down, her hand resting worriedly on her sword. "We found the source of the ghoul sighting, and...hopefully dealt with it."
[00:12] <Kotono> "Oh yes, there are many many matters. It'll happen in a day or two - about the trial, about that rapier and glaive, about what Lord Salman wishes to do - but sit down and go on for now," Oberuth smiles expansively.
[00:12] <Kotono> "...well then," His humor fades at those words, "I heard. Was it real or imagined?"
[00:14] <Shamal> "Very real," Shamal nods, taking out her sling and putting it on the table in all its creepy eyed glory. "My sling even picked up some magic much like Lyselle's sword did after we dealt with the last ghoul infestation."
[00:15] <Kotono> "..." Oberuth stares at it, before shaking his head, "Are you trying to say that what caused the ghouls is still active?"
[00:15] <Berlioz> "Yes. And it can possess people, to boot. It's... not a pretty sight", Berlioz coughs somberly.
[00:16] <Shamal> "The butcher's by the Dawn Star inn will be closed indefinitely," Shamal deadpans. "We need to put out a public health warning for anyone who shopped there."
[00:17] <Kotono> "...well then." Oberuth snorts out, "Yes, I'll see to it. Another concern springs up just as we reign in another." Pausing to brush back his hair with the back of his hand, "Alright. Lord Salman is going to want to see you tomorrow, and he'll want to talk about this and other things before Beth's trial."
[00:18] * Shamal nods and stows the sling away. "I'll see if I can at least make this into something useful like I did with Frozen Oath."
[00:19] <Kotono> A nod to that, "Go ahead and rest and prepare. Tomorrow's going to be a big day for you," Oberuth smiles faintly, "Dismissed, we'll talk more on the morrow."

[Corwin]

[20:55] <Kotono> ----
[20:59] <Kotono> The next day is a solemn, windswept day. From the Bay of Sparking Stars a thin cloud cover blows in, a wind with the very last gasps of winter's touch, enough to ever so slightly cool the air. Yet this stops no one - it is a day of activity, Balmuria alive again. The summons came fairly early, Lord Salman waiting. He now stays in the garrison, a single meeting room converted, a deep backed chair made for him. (More)
[21:02] <Kotono> Lord Salman leans forward, hands curled up beneath his chin. His gaze is strong, meeting each of you as you enter. Shamal first and then Berlioz and finally Lyselle. "Welcome, each of you," he says, deep voice strong and unhindered by weaknesses of the flesh once more. "I have heard much of your deeds and find them pleasing. Your devotion and skill are exemplary by all admissions. You captured my poisoner and made a remedy despite pernicious a
[21:03] <Kotono> pernicious attempts to make it a fatal poison, then exterminated an unholy, loathesome attack on our very soil."
[21:04] <Shamal> "Balmuria's normally very quiet..." Shamal almost squeaks her statement out, wondering what Lord Salman must think of the city considering all the recent excitement.
[21:08] <Kotono> "I find that the evidence of facts suggests strongly otherwise," Lord Salman rumbles from deep within, baritone heavy. "But as often happens and happened in the birth of our country, those that are capable rise to the forefront. You have done well, directly ending several threats. I need not extole on your bravery and virtue, as your deeds stand alone, not needing mere words to celebrate them." (More)
[21:10] * Hotaru (~WinNT@225-52-77-204.sptc.mnscu.edu) has joined #dunes
[21:13] * Hotaru is now known as Lyselle
[21:14] <Kotono> "I have had you come instead to speak of matters resulting from your valorous actions. First, our nation has come into possession of two eldrich artifacts - a glaive and a rapier - thanks to your works. Weapons sorely needed for trade or for protections." Lord Salman looks on, "In exchange, a gift of 5000 gold coins shall be bestowed onto each of you. Money hard earned, but I believe that you will use it well."
[21:15] <Shamal> Shamal's eyes widen considerably at the vast amount of money being given. "Ah... th-thank you, my Lord," she stumbles out, wondering what she can do with that much cash.
[21:17] * ChanServ sets mode: +ao Lyselle Lyselle
[21:17] * Lyselle stands silent, fairly overwhelmed by the onrush of praise and wealth that has suddenly come into her hands. It may not perhaps be so shocking as it might've been only a short time ago, but five thousand is still much more than she's previously held in her hands. "Ahm...my Lord is most generous..." she recovers, violet eyes a hint wide, not quite reaching shock.
[21:19] <Kotono> "We are generous because you are truly exceptiona and loyal servants, and as such, look to be the forefront of our investigations and defenses in Balmuria." Lord Salman waits a moment, nodding gravely. "There seem to be many problems in this city. A plague of undeath, coming in the form of most unholy energy. The gnome problems and interests, rumblings from the elves and...Malmuth."
[21:20] * Shamal stiffens. "Have we had confirmation of hostile action from Malmuth?" she asks worriedly. Sure, rumours about Malmuth run all the time, but nothing's happened since the war, right?
[21:23] <Kotono> "We trade with Malmuth, even after the war. On their insistance, giving us vitally needed gold in exchange for iron. The coin you will receive is largely composed of profits from this trade. It is a large and important part of our economy, yet, one does not trust the other. The elven affair, rumblings at the border. Are all these things that are happening related to them in any manner? We do not know for certain, but we intend to find out.
[21:29] <Shamal> "I see... Am I to take it that since you are telling us this, then we will be involved in finding out Malmuth's intentions?" Shamal asks thoughtfully.
[21:30] * Lyselle raises her eyebrows sharply at Shamal's inference, coming back down from her toughts of armor, weapons, and the like. "That would be..." she pauses to glance at Berlioz. "Within our abilities, I would guess..."
[21:33] <Kotono> "There are many issues - and do they connect? Is this one grand scheme against us? Is Malmuth behind it all, some of it, or innocent? Do they wish to reclaim their lost lands? How do the disturbances, the ruins, the elves...how does all of it fit together?" Lord Salman raises his eyebrow, "I believe it to be within your abilities. Ergo, I task all of you with the following." (More)
[21:33] * Berlioz frowns, voice mildly somber. "There's no doubt we'll be involved. Otherwise, no one would even bother telling. And, really, I'm guessing it's at the very least about time that the ruckus in the elven lands started resonating."
[21:34] <Kotono> Pausing a moment, "Yes, the elven lands are...Seira has been sent there, along with the elven ranger whom was in your company. A mission of diplomacy."
[21:35] <Shamal> "Oh, that's where he went. I was worried he'd been taken advantage of, again..." Shamal murmurs in faint relief.
[21:38] <Kotono> "First, the undead plague. From the information given, it is quite possible that we are only dealing with the symptoms, not a root cause. Find that cause and find out why it is doing so, what it is, and how it relates to us, then neutralise it. The gnomish ruins - we sit on one near town. The allure and lost magic inside could be vital to our nation. Discover those secrets and make them ours. Irenes...his life is forfeit if he is captured in o
[21:39] <Kotono> captured in our lands. Do so. Alive if possible, but if his life must end, end it. Find out whom has inspired his perfidious deeds." (More)
[21:42] <Kotono> "Finally, Malmuth. Our city is ripe with traders and diplomats pass through here. A potential wealth of information - find information, perhaps even recruiting those who may be favorable to our cause, discreetly. Gauge the Malmuthian thread, find out as much as you can about the now closed Empire. If they are behind this our wish us ill...we will not be caught unprepared."
[21:46] <Shamal> "It seems there is much to do," Shamal notes, nonetheless resolved to her duty. "May the Gods smile on us in such interesting times."
[21:47] * Lyselle nods, taking a deep breath to try and order her thoughts. "And may Helm continue to watch over us in our duties," she adds quietly, folding her hands. "Things just keep circling upwards."
[21:48] <Kotono> "Yes. As such..." Lord Salman rises, smiling slightly. "Captains. Go forth with my orders, for Balmuria, the United Baronies, and our continued glory and well being. I must return to the capital for now, but I will visit again in time. We cannot neglect this city now, you have helped us survive thus far."
[21:51] <Shamal> Shamal's salute is almost but not quite perfect, but no less snappily given as Lord Salman rises. "Thank you, sir!" she replies enthusiastically to her promotion.
[21:53] <Berlioz> The bard bows humbly, doing a far better job of keeping his enthusiasm at bay than the witch blonde. "It is an honor, my lord."
[21:54] * Lyselle pauses for an instant, hardly believing the second sudden rise in rank before shadowing Shamal's movements, a snap to attention and salute, uncomfortably shifting into a more relaxed smile. "My deepest thanks for the opportunity, my lord."
[21:58] <Kotono> "I also believe that you'll have earned it soon," Lord Salman smiles, but only for a brief, grave moment. "Go now. Meet and obtain your monies, then go forth to your duties."
[22:01] * Shamal adds a bow to her salute before departing, her head practically spinning with all that's just been unloaded on them.
[22:02] * Lyselle makes a somewhat sweeping bow, smiling as she slips from the room, trying to think ahead, and failing miserably amidst the chaotic rush of information.

[Corwin]

<LEVEL UP (to level 6)>