At noontime you walk into the common room of the inn, and spot a number of adventuring types congregating in there. You see an elven ranger, two dwarves (one apparently a cleric, both apparently nursing hangovers), the young man Damius, a human ranger, a gnome, a young man in breeches and a half orc fighter.
Loklatos turns towards the cleric:
"Hello, I am happy to meet you again. But maybe you don't recognise me... I am Loklatos, from the band of Kadlian, over here... Would you and your friends care for a drink later on? I first have to report."
Sasha smiles, "Yes, I think I do remember. Seems a lifetime ago. I would love to join you all." She nods to her companions, waving them to follow Loklatos.
Loklatos excuses himself, then rejoins the table where Kad and the others are sitted.
Kadlian smiles warmly at the members of the group. "It is good to see you again my friends. We have many matters to discuss, but tell me, what have you been doing since we left the Borderland Keep?"
Loklatos sits down at Kad's table, and immediately says:
"Glad to see you all! Was your trip successfull, Hlarn? I will have to report to you later Kad, we were attacked coming here..."
Fallon smiles widely at seeing everyone and rushes over. She gives Drandar a big hug, then looks to Hlarn - with concern in her eyes.
Drandar hugs back.
"Aye, it's good to see you too lass."
Turning to the rest, "Hello, and great to see you all. I guess that we'll have to celebrate, again. Are you ready for that Hlarn?"
"Where have you been? Did things go well for you? I was so worried - but it looks as if things worked out ... did they?"
She looks to Kadlian, once see sees the state Drandar and Hlarn are in and grins. "If you have been celebrating to this degree ... may I assume things went well then?" She asks, taking a seat between them.
Hlarn replies.
"Yes, things went fine, although the cost was dear. I will be working a long time to pay back the debt I now owe the party."
"But that was not why were were celebrating. Seems we met the Paladin Yuri two days before, and helped him clear out an orc nest."
"So how did things go? Where is Kal, Gunther and the rest? What's this about being attacked?"
Kad also speaks up.
"Things went well, but we are in hock up to my ears and completely over their heads." Kadlian points at the hung-over dwarves. "As for the celebrating... Well, you know dwarves. Any little excuse and they drink to excess. We simply removed a large tribe of orcs from this plane of existence with Yuri the Paladin and his friend's help. Just the five of us against, oh, a hundred or so Ugruth orcs. Nothing too difficult and since I won the bet, they bought last night." Kadlian grins.
Fallon grins, "You have all the fun! Nothing serious happened to us - we were attacked on the way here - by gnolls or somesuch ... but I received more damage from Gnarsh here than those attackers. I made the mistake of wanting to spar with him to try out my new armor. I think I still need some healing ... " Fallon says, with a shake of her head.
Hlarn laughs, "Next time make sure Gnarsh hasn't had any drinks for a day before you ask to spar with him."
Fallon grins, "So I learned. I took quite some damage, and Loklatos could do little more than bind them."
Hlarn heals Fallon for 2 hit points...
Fallon sighs, "Thank you Hlarn - I am glad to see that you are still in favor with your god - which is something I would like to discuss with you some day ... but not today. I am too glad to be in from the cold, and among my friends again!" She hugs both Drandar and Hlarn, then lifts her mug of ale.
"To good friends and good causes!"
Turning to Loklatos, Hlarn asks, "Did you find anything out about the magic?"
Kailar replies.
"Yeah, there was more cursed stuff. Half the party got teleported about and Vardui had to go and rescue them. "
Sasha approaches the table shyly.
"Hi! It has been a while since you were last here. I hope your party is well. May we join you for a drink then? I would love to catch up on events going on in other places, things here have been a little intense."
When Farad enters and sees Damius, he approaches him. "I don't know who you work for, but I will not have you threatening one of my companions."
He draws his sword.
"Speak quickly, while you still have a tongue. Was that a death mark you gave Sasha six days ago? Who wants J'Harast dead, and what is your part in it."
"Farad! Don't do this. I don't think Damius meant the mark for me ... only to let me know about ... stop it." Sasha gets up and walks to Farad.
The female ranger, sitting between Hlarn and Drandar stands suddenly, and in a flash a dagger leaves her hands ... flying toward the attacker ...
The dagger misses Farad completely, and puts a part through the voluptuous lady cleric's long red locks.
The hung over dwarf, seeing a blade pulled against his friend, quickly commands the grey elf to "Sleep!"
The elf drops in his tracks, snoring.
Then Hlarn turns to Fallon.
"Careful lass. No need for us to draw blood first."
Hlarn jumps up and disarms him, putting a dagger to his throat before reawakening him.
Kadlian, the elven ranger, also moves quickly. "Hold on, friend. I do not think you want to do that here. Now, please explain why you draw steel in a tavern unprovoked and why you threaten my companion with it."
"Unprovoked I'm not. Your friend Damius handed us a death mark last week against one of our companions. Why don't you ask him who he works for and who's after one of our companions. I don't take kindly to those who threaten me or mine."
"Nothing will be settled by shoving blades in each other's faces. I think we can talk this out sensibly - I know a few of these people - they are good adventurers ... as we are!" says Sasha.
Upon hearing Sasha say this, Farad will raise his hands then in peace. "Ok, I'll shed no blood. But I still mean to have an answer. Who gave you that note Damius. Who means to have J'Harast dead."
Sasha looks to Kadlian, "I think there has been a little bit of a misunderstanding here ... you see, several days ago, Damius gave me a paper with just a black spot on it ... I think it has to do with a friend of mine. Farad is new here ... and well ... I"m sure we can all sort this out ... " She finishes, with a pleading look to Farad.
Farad nods, "Depends on that one's answer," as Farad nods to Damius. "If he's the one planning to kill J'Harast, some of us won't leave this inn alive."
Farad looks to the dwarf, elf and human facing him, and then turns back to Damius. "I don't know what trouble J'Harast is in. But he's the one who delivered the note, and I expect an answer from him."
"Who is this J'Harast and why is anyone planning on killing him?" asks the gnome.
"Who cares?" grunts the half-orc, Gnarsh. "This looks like a good time for a bar fight!"
With that he wheels about and swings at the person standing nearest to him, who happens to be Bel the druid. He lands a perfect punch, mashing Bel's nose for 5 hit points of damage...
Bel, with a broad smile through his bleeding nose, proceeds to kick Gnarsh in the groin.
"AAAAAAAAAAAARRRRRRRRRRGGGGGGGHHHHHHH" bellows Gnarsh, his voice several octaves higher for some reason.
Sasha, having checked to make sure her hair is okay, swings her staff at Gnarsh.
"Stop it! All you stop it!" She looks to Kadlian, "Do something about your people. There has been enough violence here ... "
Sasha swings her stump of a burnt staff. Gnarsh grabs it, then grabs her. Picking her up with ease, he hurls her across the room like she was some sort of squirming missile, to be caught by Luthus the innkeeper, who was just coming in to see what the uproar(s) are.
"What the..?" he says.
"Drandar, Fallon, jump on Gnarsh and stop his brawling. Damius, stop that druid from attacking Gnarsh again. Hlarn, hold on to that elf."
Fallon immediately complies ... "How high?" As she leaps for Gnarsh...
Gnarsh catches her and tosses her to Bel.
Kadlian looks around at the rest of the folks. "And no one joins in or they answer to me."
Hlarn turns towards Gnarsh, and commands the half-orc to "Drink!", a command that, magic or not, he knows Gnarsh will obey.
Not only does Gnarsh stop his brawling and obey...walking over to the bar and ordering a beer, but so does Drandar for some reason.
Bel, upset at the interruption, says, "Oh bite me, come on Gnarsh let's find a bar where you can unwind in peace."
"Can't," replies the half-orc. "I've been banned from every other place in town for 'unwinding'... Here. Have a beer."
"An' you'll be banned from here if you don't watch out!" says Luthus, setting Sasha down...though he does not seem to be a great hurry to accomplish that task. "The lot o' ye!"
Hlarn then turns to Farad, "I am a cleric of Silverbeard, and I swear that no killing will be done here. Now lets sit down and talk reasonably. If Damius is involved, it probably means that this J'Harast of yours has crossed the Thieves Guild somehow."
Hlarn stands, pulling his dagger away, and helping the elf up.
Farad continues to scowl, but causes no further aggression.
Hlarn turns to Sasha, "Was J'Harast a member of the Guild that you know of? Do you know of any reason why he would be wanted? Did he doublecross the guild, keeping treasure for himself, or perhaps foil the guild in some scheme of theirs?"
Hlarn turns to Damius, "Can you tell us, without betraying a confidence, what this is about?"
Farad stands ready, but waits for some answers.
Hlarn watches Farad closely.
Looking very pissed off, Damius replies:
"The guild told me to deliver that paper to J'Harast, a former member who betrayed them by leaking a bunch of information to the guards. I was going to find out more about the situation, but gave up when I heard them talking."
Sasha steps forward, "Damius, please. I would really like to know ... it is important to me - he is my friend." She steps forward, putting her hand on his arm, giving him a pleading looks.
"Damius, can you tell us anything without breaking any oaths? If not, then keep your silence. Otherwise, please enlighten this lady."
"Anyway this J'Harast, whether he's innocent or not, has gotten himself into his own trouble, and doesn't need would-be knights like you coming to his rescue."
"Please! You may not have all the facts - I know I don't. But I think that we need to know. I would do anything ... "
Kadlian raises an eyebrow. "Anything?... Please, Sasha, be careful what you say. We are not the only ones in this room and you may not like some of the proposals you receive."
Sasha blushes deeply and turns to face Kadlian. "Would you not do anything for a friend. I do have a right to refuse proposals - or is that no longer true here? I simply want to get to the bottom of this ... and help someone who is trying very hard to be a good person..."
"I have done many things for a friend, but I would not publicly state it as you have done. But, do to answer your question, yes, I would do anything for a friend."
"So you only meant that in the context of semantics - I guess I forget how things sound to others." Sasha smiles.
"Well, you need to be careful what you say when it can be overheard by those who are not friends."
"I do not know your friend, but can he tell us what is going on?"
Sasha frowns. "I guess so ... but I don't know his status at the moment."
"Well, until we hear his side, I do not think you will get the whole picture."
Hlarn smiles, glad that things seem to have worked out for the best, although he is somewhat annoyed by Farad's preachy attitude.
"We met a friend of yours I believe, Illyana, who was training with Yuri's men. Perhaps J'Harast is training as well? What is his craft? Perhaps someone could go today to his guild and warn him."
"Well, Farad, now it seems you know why Damius delivered that note. I think you can see that it is not his issue." says Kad.
Giving Kadlian a dirty look, Damius continues:
"I was beginning to actually feel some loyalty to this group, before Drandar and Fallon dissapeared from Sandas and no one bothered to tell me anything."
Fallon looks stricken and rises immediately. "Oh Damius - we didn't leave you on purpose! The Mage Ray Jay called us imbeciles and teleported us back to the keep before we knew it. And then I was injured - nearly dead again ... and so could not travel before now. To make up for it, we could meet for playful comfort later ... " Fallon says, rubbing his arm gently.
Chuckling softly, he says quietly to Fallon:
"If you like... I don't know what you have in mind, but the last few weeks have been very depressing, it would be nice to have someone to talk to."
Fallon grins. "You would enjoy it very much." She gives him a silky grin, and runs her hand up and down his arm.
"Um. That would be my que," says Drandar. "Damius, there seemed to be a little problem. When we went to visit Ray Jay, that is Fallon Amber and I. Well, we pissed her off, and she sent us back to be with the rest of the group. When we returned, we found that there was a problem of a ghost to deal with, and then well, we hd some other problems to deal with to. To be perfectly honest, I am sorry that no one returned to tell you what was happening. We did not leave of our own accord, and we took a detour getting back here.
"Again, I'm sorry that you felt betrayed. How can I make it up to you?"
"Well, you could tell me all that has gone on in my abscense. Perhaps while we're travelling back to the keep, away from these people..." he says, looking at the group's original members, ignoring the rest.
Kadlian shrugs at Damius. "Well, Drandar and Fallon were teleported back to the Keep by Ray Jay without their consent. Drandar, Hlarn and I were in Sandas a few days ago and we left word for you at Ray Jay's, but found out that you were still training. So, I guess you have a right to be annoyed with us, but I am not sure that you should feel abandoned. We have missed you sorely and I look forward to trying to bring all the members of our party back together."
"What, who else is missing?" asks Damius.
Farad frowns. "My appologies, Damius. But you must realize that I can't let an attack on one of our own go unmet."
Farad smiles, "Just as your friends came to your rescue, we must come to J'Harast's. From what you say, he's wanted by this Thieves Guild for talking to the guard. Well, if J'Harast is working with the city guard, he has my support. I'll not let a bunch of layabouts who live off of other peoples hard work threaten me or mine."
Sasha rolls her eyes and sighs. "Why must everything you say be said so ... negatively. Some tact would go a long way, Farad."
Farad responds coldly, "I am an honest man, and say what I mean. Thieves are a plague that civilized beings should not be burdened with. I have no respect for those who take from others for their own gain."
"There I agree with you ... however ..." Sasha replies, fire in her eyes.
Farad turns to Damius. "Any idea how many thieves live in a city like this? Your kind are like parasites, thriving off of the wellbeing of others."
Damius sighs and sits back down at the table, shaking his head.
Sasha throws up her hands in frustration. "Farad! Please ... must you be so antagonistic? We are not here to insult anyone, merely to get some information. We did not ask for your views on life in this city!" She turns away from Farad, and once more approaches Damius.
"Please ... I am asking as a friend would ask for another. If a friend of yours was unjustly accused of something ... wouldn't you try to help him right a wrong - or would you simply accept the fates and not lift a finger to help. I am trying to help ... but I need information ... please."
Damius lifts his head up and looks tiredly at Sasha.
"If you need information, ask J'Harast. If he is your friend, he should be more than willing to tell you what is going on."
"Yes ... I have. But he speaks in such terms of gloom and doom that I can't figure out if there is anything I can do. I want to understand why the guild wants him dead ... "
"Hey! I resent that, elfie," chirps up Kailar. "Are we supposed to respect merchants who grow fat while children starve in the street. Or how about Land owners who work their serfs into early graves. Or the Lords who lie on golden beds while families are crammed into shacks. I'd be careful of who you are accusing of being a layabout or a parasite or living off the well-being of others."
Fallon follows this conversation thoughtfully, then adds. "It seems to be the same everywhere ... these divisions ... but I think there is greater evil here than the snatching of gold and gems - sometimes for very good reasons - sometimes not. But we must concentrate at the root of the evil - not the symptoms."
Farad then turns to Kailar, "And as for your do gooder bandits, its because of their actions that the poor servants must work so hard. If your kind didn't pilfer the profits, Lords and Ladies would have plenty to share. But instead they are forced to make due with what they can to insure the well being of folk who do not appreciate the protection the lord's knights provide and land the lord lets them use."
"This I find completely unjust and untrue! If all the Lords and Ladies had real morals and values - I would agree. But as can be plainly seen, that is not the case. Just because they are of high birth does not mean they are of 'high mind' so to speak. Many of these Lords and Ladies are selfish, petty, tyranical, and worse. They have become decadent in mind and spirit - and I applaud efforts to retaliate against those kinds. Everything is not black and white Farad. That is why people develop something called judgement. It is up to each individual to learn, weigh, and judge according to his values. It is silly to blindly follow what someone decrees - question everything - does it work? Is it fair? Is this a symptom? If so, a symptom of what? How can it be corrected? Check your premise!"
Sasha seems suddenly embaressed by her outburst and blushes deeply.
"And giving folk license to take what they wish when they think they are being wronged is your answer? Just as many, if not more, criminals are also 'selfish, petty, tyranical and worse."
"I do not wish to give folks license to take what they wish - I am only saying that sometimes it is understandable - when all other course of action is blocked. And yes, crimianls are also 'selfish, petty, tyranical and worse. But not every criminal looks like one, or has gotten branded as such - but still practice their trade - in the guise of good - they just haven't gotten caught yet and mascarade as 'good' folk. I at least wait to reserve judgement and gather facts first - before condemning someone. Not everything is as it seems. It takes a discerning mind to note the difference."
"A good lord see's profit by treating his servants well, while a tyranical lord will not earn as much money, or attract loyal men. Eventually he will fall, either to his betters, who know how to run things, or by indebting himself beyond his means. Such is the way of lords, and - " "Yes, in the ideal world it works like this. I wish it did all the time - for that way is the true and honest way. But it doesn't. Many evil lords get their powers from the very evils you profess to hate and seek to destroy - what then? Surely you can not say this does not happen. What then ?"
" - the way things should work. Petty criminals hurt all, good and bad alike, because they are not privy to the knowledge of the powerful to judge why a tax may be needed. You'd have every King asking the peasants to vote before he does anything to insure they are in agreement. Pah."
"And why are they not privy to the knowledge? Because it is horded - as a weapon to keep people in the dark ... and in servitude. Perhaps not everyone is capable of such thought and knowledge - but for those that are? What of them. There is a resource that is wasted ... "
Sasha sighs tiredly. "Nevermind ... I don't even know why I am having this conversation ... put it down to the fact that I am at loose ends ... with the things that happened to me recently ... "
Farad's eyes begin to light up, "Yes, thieves are a menace that should not be tolerated. Gods save the King that beheads the petty thief, rather than let them loose back on the streets to thieve again."
Sasha rolls her eyes again. "You are as bad as the evil you wish to destroy."
Farad slaps his hand down upon a table. "And your wishing the world was a better place, but not taking action to erradicate it is why evil is flourishing about the land."
"Not taking the action? Excuse me?" Sasha says quietly, her green eyes alight with anger. "What do you know of what I have done or haven't done. You sure have some nerve telling me about my life and my contributions to this world! You know nothing about me - so don't presume to judge me!"
Sasha, shaking in anger, calmly takes her seat, grasps her mug and finishes it in one long swallow. She takes several deep breaths, then proceeds to completely ignore Farad.
She turns to the others at the table.
"So, what have you all been up since last we met?" She asks, still battling with her temper.
Kad answers.
"We have been continuing our efforts in reducing the threat of the Black Keep situated near the Borderland Keep. Nothing of major importance, but a recent mission with Yuri the Paladin has turned up some serious implications for this whole area. Hlarn, Drandar and I along with Illyana and Yuri took on a tribe of Urguth orcs.
Sasha perks up at the mention of Yuri. "You're kidding - Yuri - that paladin fellow! Ugh! I'm sure he is good at what he does ... but his personality leaves a lot to be desired! Illyana?! She went with you? Where is she now? I would dearly like to see her. I had thought she was training, or at home."
"Well, I got the idea that she was training or waiting to be trained or finished training. I admit I was never clear on that. She was with Yuri when we found him. His personality? I find that I like him."
Hlarn comments, "I think Illyana was heading out to Yuri Castle but met his group on the way, and has been training ever since. I must say she should have some ideas when she returns." Hlarn winks at Kadlian.
Kadlian pretends not to see him, but there is a small grin on his face.
"As for Yuri, you just have to realize that he loves complements, and derives great pleasure from telling his stories. You'll find that what he knows more than makes up for the small price to pay of stroking his ego a bit. I must say if not for him we would not have found the orc lair. Nice bit of strategy he used there."
"Well, it is an old trick and I doubt he invented it. It was mentioned in my training as well. Orcs, goblins and the such always seem to fall for it."
"Besides, I like that orchestra of his."
"When we finished clearing the infestation, we found a letter from a high priestess of an evil goddess who sent the orcs there. Its tone suggested that this was not the only tribe being controlled by this high priestess. It may mean that a lot of the attacks in this area of the world by humanoids are being orchestrated."
Sasha frowns. "That is not good news."
"What this means is that the group I lead needs to return to the Borderland Keep to continue our work. We have to eliminate that threat." "You will be doing that yourselves? Are there no others to help? If she is doing that, then it seems everyone who can should be out and be prepared. Has the word spread of this threat then? People should know and be on the alert. This is most grave indeed. Makes our house seem almost like childs play - though the same kinds of forces are involved ... hmmmm.... " Sasha becomes pensive.
"Yes, it is the task that Ray Jay assigned to us. Yuri knows of the letter and I will give it to Ray Jay before we return to the Borderland Keep. They will spread the word to the rulers of the nations in this area. Hopefully, something will be done while we are tackling the Black Keep. But, I do not know that this is where the high priestess resides. It is our guess, but we do not have hard proof yet."
Hlarn adds, "I have a feeling that things will get worse before they get better. The Black Keep is an important stronghold, and the temple it houses has been coordinating events for the Borderlands, but the Raven Goddess is reaching her hand out over the land, and will not sit tight while we kill her minions."
"Aye, that is why we should take care of our business here and get back."
"Well let's talk business then. We brought the extra magic items with us. Drandar I believe you have the gems. Let's sell these things and I can commence training. Oh by the way, did Fallon tell you that somehow an orc snuck into the borderland keep, he was spotted at the tavern and then mysteriously disappeared," says Kailar.
"You may find that your current mission is somehow related to events at large. Keep in touch with Ray Jay. He will guide you well, but ware making him angry."
Kadlian snorts. "Yeah, he has this bad habit of teleporting you days away if he does not like what you say to him."
Fallon smiles and introduces herself. "And Kadlian said I had a temper! Are you a cleric then? And who is your god ... I have been meaning to discover about these beings you all worship ..."
They get quite chummy and are soon discussing many things ... men, religion, the world, .... etc ..
Drandar, perplex by all this discussion and sitting on top of Gnarsh pounds his fist onto a near table. "order, order. By Drandar's rule of order, I hereby all upon the barkeeper to serve everyone a drink so that we can all be chummy. Besides, I'm thirsty."
Drandar untangles himself from Gnarsh, and gets his ale. He sighs as he takes a long pull.
"Now, for the motion, 'Resolved that thieves are bad' we have Mr Nice guy. Any others? Those opposed, including myself."
Kadlian replies.
"Damius and Kailar both have my support and friendship. I also trust them with my life which is not something I do lightly."
"The right honorable gentleman has a valid point about the fact that there are some who make a living of others. However, I would like to have someone like Damius lead me into a tight situation anytime Information's important, and he'll get it for you."
"I'm done."
Drandar sits back and drinks some more.
Bel shakes his head and says, "A pox on both your houses, neither of you are right. You cannot judge a person based on the group they associate with. I will agree that as a rule a thief is not to be trusted and will be a drag on society in general, however they can also be of benefit to an area and a good friend. Also, being raised in nobility I have seen both the excesses and benefits of the ruling classes. You must take every person as an individual and judge them on their merits. But I will say if I am in the presence of a thief or a noble I will watch my wallet very closely and be ready to run if or victims show up with fire in their eyes. I will forget the profession of the thieves if they promise right now not to steal from me or mine. If they will not do this I will still work with them, but not trust them. You must remember we have had two party-member thieves steal from us and kill two of our group for the sake of a few gold pieces so we are a bit sensitive."
Farad decides to simply nod, and argue no more about the matter of whether thieves are good or ill, having decided that Sasha is obviously a fanatic on the subject, and can't be reasoned with.
Farad raises his eyebrows upon hearing the news that members of the band stole from and killed other members. "I assume this Rane was one of the thieves you spoke of, but who was the other?"
His eyes then narrow, "Was it J'Harast? Yet he is hunted by the guild. Someone tell me what is going on here."
Kelar, silent until now, stands up and makes a quiet exit.
During a lull in the arguing in the common room, a low voice whispers in Sasha's ear:
"When you are finished horsing around here, I would like to have a word with you."
The voice is familiar. It is Vardui's.
Looking about, though, you don't see him...
Sasha suddenly gets a funny look on her perfectly proportioned face, stands up, and walks out of the common room.
Kadlian notices her exit and muses, "Wonder what is wrong with her."
Fallon smiles gently at Kadlian. "I wouldn't worry about it. Perhaps she has a assignation with her lover ... " she smiles again, an odd little smile.
Kadlian nods and smiles back at her. "Could be..."
Fallon leans closer to Kadlian and whispers something in his ear, then resumes her seat and sips at her ale.
Loklatos has stayed silent, nursing his beer, while most of the discussion was going on. But as Kad comments the latest news (including the evil priestess), he comments:
"If they plan an attack on the region, everybody should get ready. Let's just hope we will have time enough to train before the action starts..."
Kad stops the innkeeper as he walks by and whispers to him. Luthus nods, and indicates for the elf to follow him. Kad signals to the members of his party, and they rise and leave the common room behind Luthus. Drandar helps the now senseless Gnarsh to his feet and follows.
Only Farad and Bel remain in the common room.
"Where did that other elf go? Kelar I think his name was. And Sasha? Probably off to find J'Harast. What guild would he be training with? Lets go and find him."
Bel answers, "I think that would be the warriars guild but he has also been linked with the thieves guild."
Farad laughs. "Then to the warrior's guild we will go, because if he is with the thieves, he is dead already."
The two of you head for the Fighter's Guild.
Upon entering, you see Kelar and another elf (J'Harast, though Farad does not know him) talking in the lobby.
J'Harast glances at a nearby guard, who motions them to enter a small side chamber.
"Ok buddy, we have a problem. The thieves guild has put out a black dot message on you which we think is a death sentence. Do you know anything about it."
"Yes, I am aware of it. Sasha was over hear earlier, and we discussed my response to it."
The grey elf speaks.
"My name is Farad Golamarth, and I have had the dubious pleasure of talking with your friend Sasha. From what I gather, your life is in danger by those leaches upon society, the thieves guild. I will do my best to give my protection, but as Bel said, any information you may have will help. What can you tell us?"
J'Harast looks at Bel and Farad, the new guy. "Hello Farad, any friend of Sasha's. Well, she can be very persuasive."
"As for your help, I appreciate the offer, but this is something that I must deal with alone. As I told Sasha, there is nothing that anyone can do, except myself, and my job is to survive."
Farad nods, satisfied with the answer. "A man after my own heart. He takes his burdens upon himself."
"I will be staying here at the guild, hoping that it is safer than the Inn. When I am finished training and I will be leaving the city, either to go after by brother, Jaramir, or to some distant place to prepare myself to go after Jaramir. I know that Sasha is thinking of trying to get everyone to agree to come with us, but I know I need to go get him."
Farad's eyes grow wide at this. "Jaramir was your brother. This I was not told. But you definately have my help. I would do anything to venture to the home of fiends." Farad slowly pulls out his silver sword. "I had this specially made. It is a silver alloy, and as such is a bit softer than steel, and won't hold its edge well. But it does bite into demon flesh."
He returns the sword to its scabbard. "You have my word. I will gladly venture to the Abyss to help rescue your brother. The question then is, how do we get there?"
"This is something that I must do, but the help will be appreciated. It's good to have another skilled fighter with us."
Bel replies, "It is getting a litle to hot in this turf so I will go with you. I also have a soft spot for brothers, I have so many. This will help get you back on the right track in your life, a worthy goal."
As he finishes, you all hear a noise at the doorway, and turn to see the aforementioned Sasha standing there...
"Oh!" Sasha says in surprise. "Ummm ... I didn't expect to find you all here ... ummm ... " She looks around with a worried frown. "Is this the best place to talk?"
She shrugs and steps forward. "But I am glad some of you are here. Vardui has made it clear that we all need to be fully trained before retrieving Jarimar. I need to train - but for certain reasons, it is not safe for you to stay around ... and so I thought that whoever is finished training already could head north .... and I will catch up later. That seems the best way to get everything done. I don't know if anyone else needs to train ... it seems that is what you were all doing already. I don't want to jeopaordize anyone by making you wait for me ... "
Sasha bites her lip and shrugs. "Is that okay then? Have you seen the others, I would like to catch up with them before I train also ... I have no idea what we are all doing anymore ... " She finishes with a sigh.
"Sasha, I think that we need to talk, alone." says J'Harast.
Bel sighs and says, "This would be the best thing to do but I have no money to train with and J'Harast needs to get out of town. If I wait until I am done training he will be out of reach and I will be of no use to him."
"Perhaps we can borrow the money from someone? I'm sure we can ... ummm ... You don't suppose Ming or Ray Jay would lend it to us? It can't hurt to ask. And then we can train and meet everyone else at an appointed place in two weeks time. That can't be so hard." Sasha replies.
"In fact, if you want, I'll go ask the Mage himself if he will lend us the funds. How much do you need? And does anyone in our group have anything they would loan towards the training?"
Bel replies, "I am almost broke and owe the party a large debt. I also am very hesitant about borrowing money, it goes against my grain. It would be nice to go up a level in skills but I do not believe it is feasible. We need to get moving on J'Harast's brother, but if he will agree to wait I will approach the mage for terms." Bel looks extremely upset over this possible action and obviously only is considering it on Sasha's insistance.
"It *is* feasible. I will go right now to the tower and ask for funds. If it makes you feel better, I will ask on my behalf and you can just pay me or the party back - okay? This is the best way - more training is essential. If that is all settled then, let me run my errands and we will talk again tonight. Shall we meet here then? We do need to decide where exactly to meet in a couple of weeks. Bel, could you find the rest of the party and let them know our plan and if they wish to accompany us? If you can't, at least let them know ... leave notes or something to meet here at 8 pm. Okay. I'll go see Ming and report back tonight."
Farad smiles, "I think we can all agree that Sasha and I are not friends, but I have agreed to help."
Sasha frowns, "Why do you say that? We haven't known each other long enough to make that determination. All we have done is have some conversation - admittedly we did not agree, but that does not preclude future friendship. I respect your point of view." Sasha replies, clearly puzzled by his comment.
Farad sighs, "As before, you are an eternal optimist and think all will turn to good. That in itself goes against my character. Things are as they are. One wastes time trying to change what is fated. But I will not argue further today on the subject. For now I consider you a comrad, and as such I would lay down my life for you. Perhaps someday we can call each other friends, but I doubt it."
Sasha simply nods, smiling.
"As for getting to the abyss, I think Vardui will help us with that. We just need to get some money for Bel and anyone else to train and meet you up north in about two weeks to get started. Okay?"
"Perhaps a raid against the thieves themselves will provide us with funds, and also eliminate this threat against J'Harast."
Farad's eyes brighten at that thought. "Perhaps J'Harast could continue his dissassociation with that guild." Turning to him, he asks, "Do you think such action is possible? Could we raid the thieves guild, perhaps killing its leaders, and return the money they have taken, minus our share of course."
"I think not. There are too many difficulties that would have to be overcome to succees. Farad, while that might be a noble goal, I do not think that we are up to the task." says J'Harast. Farad laughs, "But the Abyss will be a cakewalk by comparison, eh?"
He then grows somber. "Yes, I understand what you mean though. Perhaps another time."
Sasha is more direct.
"What? Are you mad?" Sasha exclaims in surprise. "That would be suicide ... and ... I'm sure it is something I could do ... " Sasha frowns, but then shrugs. "I don't care ... I will be in training ... just don't tell me anything at all about such an insane plan!"
Kelar speaks.
"What is this talk about going to the north. I thought that you were cleaning out a house of evil. I understand the need to get this elf nodding towards J'harast, but that doesn't make sense to leave that house still full of the vermin that it has in it."
"The Lady Verona has suggested that we are beginnning to enter the lords of chaos (or somthing like that) realm. It seems that the underground passageway we discovered leads to their cemetary. She also was the one who suggested that we go after Jaramir. If you do not wish to join us, I will understand. If no-one wishes to accompany me, I will understand."
"I also understand that you are trying to save his brother from the nether planes...but running away from this house and also this guild is not a good begining..you can't run away when you are on the planes.
"J'harast pardon my rudeness but with every one getting here so quickly I didn't have time to introduce myself. My name is Kelar, I don't know if you met him but my brother was Raith. I have come to find out what happened to him and now that I have I have pledged to take up his fight and avenge him.
"Now that you know about me maybe you should trust us or at least trust Sasha and Bel whom you have fought with as to why the thieves guild wants you dead and then maybe we can come up with a solution. If not then I think you should run and keep running. Your brother will stay in the nether planes without any help.
"I am not here to criticize you but I know what is like to lose a brother and would do nything it took to get him back...even if it meant taking on the thievs guild. I would do it even quicker if I had friends that would back me in that venture."
Sasha nods to everyone and leaves the guild.
Farad than bows to J'Harast. "I'll be at the inn. Send word if you see danger approaching."
With that he leaves.
Sasha rushes to Ray Jay's and knocks on the door ...
Ming answers.
"Good evening Sasha," he says warmly. "Please come in and join the party."
You enter, and find yourself again in the company of Kadlian, Hlarn, Drandar, Fallon, Loklatos, Kailar, Gnarsh and Damius...
They have an enormous pile of treasure...
Again, Sasha stops in surprise. "Oh ... you have company ... ummm, Hi!" She calls out. She turns to Ming. "I have a delicate matter I wish to discuss with you when you have a moment."
"That is quite alright. These fine people are still discovering the abilities of these magic items that they originally came here to sell."
Fallon grins, "Well, we meet again Sasha. Did your assignation go well?" SHe asks with a sly smile.
Sasha blushes, "No, I have come to ask a favor of Ming ... " she stammers.
"A favour? Of course. Please excuse us," he says to the rest of you. Then, he leads Sasha into the sitting room - the same room where he led Fallon several weeks ago - and closes the door behind them.
"Please have a seat, Sasha," says Ming, motioning to the couch. "Could I get you a drink? You enjoy wine, I think..."
"Yes ... yes ... wine would be fine." Sasha replies, refusing the seat. She paces a bit and turns to face Ming.
"I know this is awful to ask - but I don't know of anyone else I *can* ask - and it is terribly important." She accepts the glass of wine, "Thank you. You are very kind."
She sips the wine, and continues. "You see, I need to borrow a large sum of money. We need it for training. We would have had enough, but we had to pay the Tmeple of Tyr so much to ressurect our companions who kept getting killed at that infernal house."
She looks up hopefully, "Could you lend me ummm... about 4,000 gp?" She says in a rush, washing down the words with some more wine.
"Ummmm...perhaps," he replies, edging closer. "Are you sure you wouldn't like to sit down?"
"Oh that would be great - I promise to pay it back as soon as I can." Sasha replies eagerly, taking a seat now. You see, it really is very important - we are going after Jarimar's soul - which is being held in the Abyss - and getting everyone trained will make our chances of sucess much better. I knew you were the right one to come to." Sashs says, relief evident in her eyes as she sips some more wine.
"I know all about Jaramir's soul," he says, sitting down next to you and very close. "You came to me about that in the first place, didn't you?"
"Oh ... that's right. How silly of me. Well, we are getting ready to actually do it, you see." She replies with a smile.
"Right now, though," he continues, lowering his voice and gazing into your eyes, "It's you that I'm more interested in."
Sasha looks confused. "Me? Why? Oh, because of what happened ... with Rane and all?"
"You're very beautiful..." he murmurs, gently taking your hand. "And - and so vibrant - so alive..."
Sasha laughs, "Yes, it is hard to believe ... but only days ... or was it yesterday ... I was a pile of bones and a bit of skin at the bottom of the sewer. I am glad Verona was able to bring me back!"
"So am I..." he replies, and kisses your hand...then your wrist...and then starts working his way up your arm...
Sasha giggles. "That tickles! What are you doing?" She shudders a little as the kisses travel up her arm. "That feels so funny. Why are you doing that?"
"Because I'm a man...and you're a woman..." he says between kisses. He's up at your shoulder, now. "Don't you like it? Please don't tell me to stop."
Sasha's mouth drops open, in a big 'o'. "Ummm ... well ... I don't know .... I mean ... why? Do you mean ... that you want to ummmm ... well ... you know ... why?" Sasha sighs, cleary feeling something ... and liking it ... though confused at her response.
"Oh yesss...I've needed you since the first time I saw you...remember the inn..? You have such a spark...mmmmmm..."
He's kissing and nibbling at your neck...
She tries to sit up a bit, "But ... ummm ... ohhh ... " she gasps ... as the kisses continue. "I've ... never .. that is to say ... ummmm .... " She sighs again, clearly confused ... but enjoying it ...
"Relax...let your instincts take over..."
His lips find yours...
"But now? I don't even know you that well ... ummm ... " His kisses silence her for but a moment, and she again tries to disentangle herself.
"Ming? Please ... I don't think this is the time or the place ... I just need the money ... perhaps some other time ... " Sasha says, a bit breathlessly.
"It's now or never," he says, kissing you again and pulling you closer. "We may never have the chance again..."
Sasha stands suddenly. "Ming ... I just can't right now ... this is all so sudden ... and doesn't mean much ... it is only lust on your part ... can we just work out the loan of the money so I can return ... " Sasha says nervously.
"Money?" he asks, his voice suddenly cold. "Do I look like a moneylender? Please excuse me."
He goes to the door, opens it and walks out, leaving you there.
Tears spring to Sasha's eyes and she shakes her head in confusion. She finds her way out of the room, and then pauses when she again sees the party sitting there ... still discussing treasure.
Wiping the tears from her eyes, she asks, "Does anyone know where I can find a moneylender or something?" She asks nervously.
Ming remains with his back turned, ignoring her.
"What is the matter, Miss?" asks Kailar the gnome.
Hlarn, having finished experimenting with objects stands. He hates seeing women cry, nodding for Fallon to join him, he walks over to the cleric.
Frowning, Fallon follows Hlarn.
"Your friend Illyana mentioned that you and your friends were in money trouble because of a rash of unexpected deaths. What do you need the funds for? Perhaps we could arrange something. Does one of your comrads lie dead? I could be of help there."
Sasha shakes her head, "No, but we have paid so much in the past to help our fallen that we are quite broke. We need for one of our people to train before we go to the abyss. I had thought to ask Ming ... and suddenly he became angry.." Sasha gives Ming's back a puzzled frown.
Drandar smiles. "Lass, here, I will give you all 1,000 gp as a gift. That is all I have, once I finish outfitting myself and paying my bar bills. I hope that it can be of some little use to you. Besides, I might just drink it all, rather than trying to earn an honest living as a fighter. In fact, I will probably go over to the guild and do some training for the time we are here. The ale's good there and the food fills you."
Sasha gasps, then shakes her head. "Oh no, you couldn't possibly do that ... I appreciate most sincerely the offer, I do ... but you don't even know us ... you must keep your money. What I really need is a moneylender ... for I need to borrow 4,000 so Bel can train. If you could just point me in the right direction ... I shan't trouble you all anymore ... "
Drandar looks at Sasha. "Lass, I have a hero complex and red heads seem to trigger it more than normal. Money lenders are not the nicest group of people to do business with. It would be an honor if you were to take my money. I'll earn more and have no real need of it now. Someday, perhaps, when you have learned more, you can repay me by offering the 1000 gp to another youngster in the position that you are in now."
Tears again spring to Sasha's eyes. "Thank you ... I don't know what to say ... but it will be as you say ... on my word ... " She reaches out and impulsively hugs Drandar.
She bites her lip then. "Ummm ... while you are there ... be careful. J'Harast, one of our party is there ... and the theives guild is after him ... a death mark. I half wish you could just keep aware while you are there, though he would hate that I ask something like that ... but ... well ... he is in a difficult situation right now ... much has changed in his life ... and I want to do what I can to give him a chance to come back to himself ... " Sasha sighs in frustration. "Never mind ... I don't even know what I am saying or asking . I guess just that there may be unexpected trouble in the guild and to beware ... I would not want others to be in the middle of things that are not of their own making."
Hlarn gives a hearty laugh. "I do hope they try and do something while Drandar is there. They will wish they had not."
Hlarn then gives a worried sigh. "You and your friends seem to have your hands full. The abyss, the thieves guild. Do you know anyone who can neutralize poison? You may need that. And if the guild is successful, and your friend is killed, bring the body to me."
"He's the one that there was an argument about the other day in the inn. I will be careful to keep an eye out for him, and if he needs it lend him a hand or two. I'd hate to see another guild violate the sancity of the guild halls, that would piss me off. Besides, where else can I drink in peace?"
Hlarn nods, glad that no one is dead, but saddened at your need. "Yes, you will find that few will lend to adventurers like ourselves. The potential rewards are great, but the risk is much higher. There is always the possibility that you might end up dead and unable to repay the money."
Sasha nods.
"I guess Ray Jay and Ming are not in that sort of business. Do not hold it against them. They have much else to do."
"But I asked at first ... and he told me to accompany him ... and I thought it was to work out the details. Then he got angry. I mean, my first words to him were that I needed a loan. I did not come here in some pretense ... though I guess there was some misunderstanding." Sasha finishes, blushing deeply.
"But like Drandar, I too have money to lend. And a loan it shall be. Pay it back when you are able. You can find us at the Borderland Keep."
Hlarn then contributes 1000 gold to Sasha.
"Thank you so much! I shall repay this ... on this you have my word. And to you also Drandar - it shall be as you said ... I will donate the money to someone in need when I am able. I don't know how to thank you all ... I will do whatever I can to repay the favor ... money aside. This means so much to us." Sasha gushes, clearly overwhelmed by the kind generousity of Drandar and Hlarn...
Kadlian quietly says, "I will give you a loan of the other 2,000 gold. Just see me tomorrow morning."
Sasha's mouth nearly drops open. "T-thank Y-you. I don't know what to say ... I w-will come back ... in the morning ... thank you ... "
Money in hand, everyone but Fallon departs Ray Jay's Tower and returns to the Inn of the Drunken Dwarf.
"Are yo all staying here too then?" Sasha asks in surprise. "That will be wonderful. I just need to find my companions and explain everything to them and then perhaps we can share tales and some laughter before I train tomorrow!"
Hlarn smiles. "Too bad I will miss that, but I'm heading out to Dwardarf first thing. Fare you well until we meet again."
Soon after, Bel, Farad and Kelar enter.
Sasha smiles upon seeing them. "Bel! Good news. I was able to secure a loan - you will be able to train. I myself will be starting tomorrow - have any of you heard from the others? Is Illyana at Castle Yuri? What about Pillar? And Raz? I just want to be sure they all know what is going on."
"Oh! Do you all know each other?" Sasha makes the appropriate introductions.
"Shall we get a table together then? It is because of these kind people that we can be properly prepared for our trip to the abyss. Drandar, Hlard, and Kadlian," Pointing to each in turn, "Gave us the funds for for training. Drander, the dear soul, only wishes us to repay him by helping someone in the future, and I have promised to repay Hlarn and Kadlian as soon as we can. If they are not here, we can also find them at the Borderland Keep - though I do not know that is from here .. " Sasha frowns. "Where is it exactly anyway? North, South?"
Hlarn describes the route. "Two days north of here, with a poor inn at the midpoint."