OOC> Group A comprises t'skar, Evaeril, Karkarinus, Mr Anderson, MordredK, Baba-John, Arturius and gnaag

Drawn by proclamations of the need for adventurers to help save Bashkher you assemble as requested in the audience chamber of Bharat Desani. It is a large room capable of seeting fifty or sixty and he seems disappointed to see you are so few in number.

Bharat is tall for a Bashkheri. He wears a beige robe with the hem embroidered with colourful geometrical designs. He also has an unusual conical hat with coloured ribbons hanging from it. All in all he looks slightly comical but the expression on his face and in his eyes make it quite clear that he is a man used to wielding power.

He looks you over carefully registering every detail.

"So. Our problem. People are turning to stone. For the present 'people' means those over eighty years old who happen to live in the centre of the swamps of Ooo, namely witches. But not so very long ago it was those over 85 and in just one house. Where will it end? Will we all be petrified?"

He sits back in his chair watching the effect of his words on all of you.

"We have learned that these problems are caused by an alien magic influencing every part of our world in one way or another. The magic comes from another world, Kellimond, of which we know nothing."

There is another pause. It is as if he hopes you might know of Kellimond but the word is new to you.

"When the magic first struck Zorlon an apparently innocent object was translocated from each nation to a location known as the Castle of Storms in Levdia. Experience has shown that if the object can be replaced in the correct location the alien magic can no longer reach that nation. It will not reverse the effects - that is another problem we must deal with in time - but it will prevent it escalating. Your task is to replace the object taken from Bashkher."

He places on the desk in front of you a small silvery piece of metal. "This is the tip of a sword. It may surprise you to think of swords in association with Bashkher. Once they were rather more common than they are today and you will find many in museums or used as wall decorations in public buildings and private houses. If you had to track down every sword in the Bashkher you could be here for years. However, I do not think you will need to do that."

Now he takes out of his desk a sleek silver sword witha decorated blade and an elaborate handle.

"Several hundred years ago in the city of Zooz there lived master swordsmith. His swords were highly prized then for their efficacy and are now, as collectors' items. For one order however he excelled himself. Those swords seemed to have an innate ability to be in the hand of the swordsman when they were needed before the one wielding the sword even knew they needed it. They were incredible."

He holds up the sword. "This is one. One of five known to exist today. All are in museums."

He pulls out a small parchment with notes.

"I have written the locations for you. One is in Memtuz, two in Dohoti and one in Ippikander. Naturally I have checked up and none of those swords is missing a tip. You may nevertheless need to visit them for reasons I shall explain in a minute."

He pushes the parchment to the side of his desk.

"A glance at the swords and you would imagine that they were identical but of course objects of such rarity became the subject of study and research and some while ago a difference was discovered. All but hidden in the decoration on the hilt of the sword is a number. The number on this one is 2 but there is more to it. It is not simply '2' but '2 for 9'. There has been considerable discussion on the meaning of the number. Currently the popular theory is the master was all but illiterate and he meant to put '2 of 9' as he filled the order. Be that as it may, it does imply that there should be 9 swords. If our reasoning about the missing tip is accurate there is certainly at least one more than the five known. We need you to find that sword."

Bharat rubs his chin. "Nothing much to go on, I can see you saying to yourselves. That is certainly true. This sword came from The City Museum here. In the Archives next to it are several books by experts on the master of Zooz. Similar papers and articles are to be found wherever a sword is known to exist. There may be clues in these papers. This is why I believe you will have to visit all the swords. Some of these experts may still be alive and worth talking to directly. And of course there is the place in which the master flourished, Zooz. That too may have something to tell you. And, somewhat against my better judgement I am going to give you this sword to take on the journey with you. Keep it hidden. Collectors would kill for it."

He stands. "Now I believe most of you are strangers to each other and cannot have any idea of what you as a party can and cannot do. I have booked lodgings for you in the Pearl of Bashkher for two nights. Tonight you should establish if there is anything your party needs. I will arrange for that to be funded if you present me with a list tomorrow. While these items are being obtained you should see if any of the information in Papred's Archive is of use. By tomorrow night you should have decided where first to try."

Without waiting for questions he sweeps you out of the room and across the street into the Pearl of Bashkher.

"You each have your own room. The lodging is the best in Bashkher and absolutely secure. Leave what you do not need in the rooms and assemble in the bar of the tavern as soon as you can. I will leave the sword with the barman. The sword tip I will keep in case by chance someone else discovers where it should be placed before you do."

Bharat bows and leaves you.

OOC> Pick up from introductions in the bar, appoint the decision notifier, and make the two lists I requested. When that is done the decision notifier should tell me you are ready to move on.

I’m Baba Bethram, Bashkerian Shaman /Marksman and this is@#%$&$@*# he growls, just call him wolf for short.
After sitting for a while, sucking on his pipe and blowing acrid smoke rings into the air, Baba opens his eyes and looks at the individuals sitting around him. They are quite a bit younger than he is, but that’s no problem, he thinks to himself. What they have in energy, I have in experience and tenacity.

After what seemed like an age he started talking, as much to himself, as to his audience. Some of you might have heard of me, some not. My suggestion is that you believe the worst of what you’ve heard and then add some. I’m not one to dwell on the past, so please feel free to keep any questions you have about me to yourself. I will tell you what you need to know about me when you need to know. I’m too old to have to worry about my reputation and too young to start writing my autobiography. For now let’s just accept that I’ve been around a while.

Don’t just sit there, introduce yourselves. We’re all here for a reason so I say, let the game begin.


Character Sheet

Name-Baba Bethram
From-Lampur- Bashkher
Age- 48
Occupation-Shaman/ Marksman

GMT+2 Evenings 19H00-21H30

Abilities
Chant – Heals comrades in 10 yard radius
Turnip sleep – Puts target to sleep
Affinity with Animals (Presently Snow Wolf)
Herbalist and Blacksmithing.

Clothing
Cloak with hood (White stag skin)
Shirt Leather (homemade)
Pants Leather (homemade)
Codpiece Leather (homemade)
Bracers leather (homemade)
Boots Leather (homemade)
Unobtainium chain mail vest

Possessions on Person
Staff of Grounding (Ebony Quarterstaff 6’ with an Obsidian Crystal ball 2”on top) Nullifies magic in radius 10 yards when stamped on ground)
Ram’s Stag horn war bow & Quiver 30 arrows
Small Vial Curare Poison -10 arrows
Steel Dagger 6’
3” Golden Sickle
Long Smoking Pipe & Tobacco for 3 weeks
Tinder box
10 Gold pieces

Possessions in Pack (Haversack)
Bedroll & Pillow
6’x6’ waxed tarpaulin (doubles as raincoat)
30 yards strong rope
Fletching kit to make 100 arrows
2 Vials of Curare Poison - 100 arrows
Food Rations
Insect repellent
Soap
Assorted Local Herbs

Needs - Fine Yew bow + 20 Arrows, Pair of size 4 leather sneakers.

Anyone know where the Papred Archive is?

Sitting with the other 7 she had seen in the council chamber, T'skar looks around at them, sizing each one up. When Baba Bethram speaks, she turns to look at him. Interesting, she thinks.

She speaks up, "My name is T'skar. I really have no idea what's going on here. I came to this city this morning and approached the gaurd at the city gate for some information, like where am I, and what is this city. He took one look at me before I could ask anything and said, 'We've been expecting you.' With that he showed me to a coach, which brought me to Bharat Desani and the rest of you. When I asked what was going on, I was told all would be explained in due time. Now I have heard of a sword tip, magic from another world, people turned to stone, and a quest. I am no adventurer. I have lived in the city my whole life, and know the ways of the city. I have tried as much as possible to stay out of other peoples' business, except where the reward was worth the risk, but this plea for help appeals to me."

Looking at her, the casual observer would see a small man or medium sized woman wearing non-descript tan clothing. The hair is close-cropped, and red. The thin face is well tanned, as are the hands and arms. The voice is husky, giving the impression of a heavy smoker, yet not quite, almost as if it is being cast arficially low. The green eyes dart around the room, appearing to take in everything, and yet not focusing long on anything.

ooc>
Character Sheet

Name: T'skar
Nationality: Tagfieran Wanderer/Wizard
Age: 23
Class: Thief/Mind Mage
Special Abilites: Conceal and reveal, Mind Mage magic

Equipment

Weapons: Silver Dagger worn in a special sheath between her shoulder blades, normal Iron Dagger worn at left side.

Armour: None

Potions: Three restore magic potions (restore 20 units each) (if allowed).

Other: Bed roll, rations for five days, two water skins, 50' silk rope, grapel hook, crampons, thieves tools (picks and probes, master level equivalent)(carried in a special pocket inside her top), backpack, flint & steel, tinder, green cloak with red trim (reversable - underside is dull tan), set of dull tan clothes, extra shirt and breeches, soft tan high boots, scarf to wrap around head (also dull tan), belt with 3 pouches attached. 8 pieces of money, Tagfieran - so I'm not sure of conversion factor.

on topic>
"It sounded like someone would guide us to the archives."

Kalmer sits expressionless and apparently oblivious of his suroundings, as is his wont. Not that he is loath to express his feelings, it's just that his life as a hunter/tracker on the Tagfierian plains has endowed him with an uncanny ability to go unnoticed and yet notice everything. A strangley intangible fire burns within his eyes as he sits up slightly and speaks:



"I am Kalmer Neowen of Neomers's March. I know not how I came here but I now know why." His voice is solemn but clear, with an eloquence not in keeping with his aspect. "If this evil is not irradicated it shall extend to our homes. I offer my allegance and my skills to the service of this land that we may all one day return to ours in peace."



Not one to go on about things - least of all himself - he leaves it at that, sinks very slightly back into his seat, and adopts that earily inconspicuous look so typical of the Tagfierian Plainsmen.







NAME: Kalmer Naowen
RACE: Tagfier
CLASS: Hunter/Tracker
AGE: 32
SKILLS: Marksman, dagger, hand-to-hand, acute senses of sight, hearing and smell,

Conceal/Reveal spells (including on Self,) excellent climber.
DESCRIPTION: 5' 11 " (1m 83cm), athletic build, rugged complexion, fair/blond hair with grey eyes
CLOTHING: Khaki-ish camouflage-like clothing over light leather armour, no helm, leather boots,
leather bracers

ITEMS: Huntsman's Bow, 200 arrows (normal and poisoned), huntsman's knife, travelsack with 10m of rope,

rations of food, herbs for healing, poison sleeping and reviving, swabs and bandages, and a trapper's net which also doubles as a camouflaged "sniper's shroud".

Utility belt with fishing hooks, 30m of catgut line for fishing and/or garrotting, several small stones,

a multi-use animal sound whistle and some highly flexible cane-like sticks. I his bracers he has

several throwing darts and blades.

NEEDS TO BUY: Rations for Kyah, his trusty steed, and a cloak to conceal his bow and belt.

Mandrake looked at the others he thought of the books he read.""so this is a small group of adventurers on the evening before embarking on an epic quest."" He had always favored legends and tales of heroes but Mandrake had always discarded them as fiction. Mandrakes first reason for going with this was that his master and friend Tiax was going and that if he stayed he would be homeless again. Mandrake stood up and walked to the speaker Bahrat. "can I take a look at the sword tipp I think it would come in handy if we got a scetch. although I think I will make that tomorrow" Mandrake said on secend thought.

name Mandrake Kaides
Race Tagfieran wanderer
Age 19
Class Chartographer
sex male

equipment
staff 2.5 meter
black clothes(pants shirt belt shoes gloves)
2 cloaks (one black cotten with cap the other on one side red silk with silver trim and on the other side brown leather)
25 yards of black silk rope
a blank book
a writing set containing 4 quils and 2 pots of black ink
a small stone made of emareld and ruby(his source of insperation)

the cloaks have little holes and you can combine one with the rope to make a sack.

needs
more coleurs of ink
a small knife
a guitar(with six steel strings) with a proective sheet
a book on how to learn to play guitar
a look into some maps so he can scetch them
Mandrake tears a blanke page out of his book and starts to write a list of his belongings and of anyone elses if they tell him what to write

/ooc just tell me what to write and I'll do it, I've made a small adaption to my char to make him more a writer who fightes with a staff then a thief to compremise the number of thieves

At the barseet Tiax turns towards the group, leaving his water for what it is for now.

"With the exeption of one" Tiax starts while looking at Mandrake. "I know none of you, nor your motivation on this quest. I am most interrested in your stories. In return I will give mine.."

He looks around inspecting, one by one, everyone.

"I am Tiax Anderson and I'm..... a.." A mage he finally determins. "A manipulator of time, I am here to solve this alian magic and to rid this land of the horror it brings. I..."

He turns towards the bar again. Drinking his water and ordering another.
..While waiting for his drink he writes something down..


*List what I should buy*

- Rations for another 11 days
- Alchamy equipment to make any potions (if herbs are present)
- Maps of suroundings (perhaps that mandrake would make some more, or should I buy them...)

*End of list*

OOC> Sael has gone on holiday but posted in the sign up thread so his info can be taken from there.

Gnaag looked throughiut the entire group. Nice company, he thought. Surely they are good fighters, but no one could beat him. He was sure about it. He killed up to five rats during the way in the city. Yes he killed some also before. But they weren't counted in, he killed them 'before'. Now is now, he doesn't want to think about 'before' anymore.

He didn't wanted to be seen. He expected them to underestimate him because of his age and height.

Character Sheet

Personal info

• Name- Gnaag
• From- Tokonage
• "Race"- Niyobian
• Age- 14
• Class- Fighter
• Sex- Male

GMT+1
Abilities

• marksman
• washing up
• hiding
• riding - almost on anything

Clothing

• dark green cloak over shoulders - low quality
• leather armor, boots and helmet

Possessions

• Poor wooden bow, a few of arrows
• Short sword
• Little pouch of money
• a book "How to become a succesful paladin" written in some strange language

Appearance

• extremely short youngster
• no experience written upon his childish face

Problems

• can't express his thoughts very well
• can be extremely easyli hurt by any magic
• dislike magicians

Need to buy

• more arrows
• something to drink, he will probably ask for some kind of alcohol
• new shoes

Character Sheet for Sael

Name - Sael
Nationality - Dayone
Age – 32
Class – Earth Wizard
Special Abilities - true speak/detect lie, healing and restoration type magic

Equipment

On Person – Ring of healing, 30ft Silk Rope (in belt bag), Tinder box, dagger, Cloak, Wooden wizards staff.

In Haversack - Rations, Blanket, Bedroll,

I don’t remember getting here, as I was in a drunken stupor.

Needs - Any spell ingredients required. Insect repellent, Soap (Pears)




Ok, Mandrake do the list, so we can get going.

Map of Papred

Kalmer peruses the map of Papred for several seconds and commits it to memory with uncanny speed and accuracy....

Mandrake sits down next to the map and starts copying it to his book.
then he starts to look a round for something to eat.
""I'm hungry, wouldn't mind an apple or two."" he thinks to himself

Ara sat next to T'skar and Baba-John.

Finding one sword in a nation? It will be impossible.

She sat back as she mused to herself. As she stroked Aena, the owl turned to look at her with its large round eyes. Examining the fighters around her she gestured to the large pompous man in front of them and raised her eyebrows.

"He hasn't gotten to the part where he says he'll pay us. I care little about swords. And old timers turning to stone don't really concern me either. But this,"- She took out a gold piece and flipped it into the air.

"This is worth fighting for."

Seeing Baba-John pull out the map, she put the gold away and studied it.

"Good to have a map. The owl dislikes aerial landscaping."

Character Sheet

Name: Ara Lothea
Nationality: Bashkeri
Age: 21
Class: Tracker/Light Fighter
Special Abilites: Affinty with Snow Owl, words of healing, Turnip sleep

Equipment

Weapons: Concealed Katana worn on back, two throwing knifes on either leg.

Armour: Customized white titanium alloy body armor grooved and padded at jointed areas to allow quicker silent movements, matching white leather shoes and gloves to dampen sound, long white cloak to conceal katana and white robe to conceal armor.

Potions: Two antibody potions to help fight disease and two emergency health potions to partially and temporarily prolong the user's life. All worn on potion belt.

Other: Sleeping roll (includes pillow), soap, shampoo, under arm paste, paste made from local herbs to brush teeth, shaving razor, rations for two days, 100 gold pieces

Need to buy: Matches, Bow

Gnaag looked on the map a bit confused. He wasn't used to read from maps. He relied on his intuition. But there he was in foreign country. He had to know where was where. He looked on his companions and found that only one, he liked was a short older man. He might standed for his father. No, no his father was... It didn't matter then. He had to talk to someone.

"Excuse me, I have heard you are Baba Bethran. I see you have gone through many battles. You seem to me the most weel-oriented among us. Can I ask you a question? I really don't know how to read this map. I have never been doing it before."

Gnaag was nervously looking for Baba's answer, because he felt very embarrased that he showed up his shortage.

T'skar was watching the bar, or more precisely the serving wenches in the bar. Seeing them move among the patrons, flirting. Watching as they returned with drinks, and as money changed hands. Watching as change was made, and then refused. How do they do that? It is almost a type of magic, she thought. Suddenly a light went on. She had lived in the city almost her whole life, had lived on the outer-edge of the city more accurately, among the down-trodden, the petty thieves, the prostituted. She had always wondered at them ripping their dresses so high, cutting their blouses so low, painting their faces. And suddenly, here, wherever 'here' was, she finally made a connection. She had tried to hide her femininity, tried to deny what she was, because of the stigma attached to it from her childhood. But now she saw the magic of it - a woman in a tight top and high cut dress could almost mesmerize men, enchanting them as effectively as any charm spell. She turned to Mandrake and asked, "Could you please put one, no make that two, skirts and two blouses on your list?" Having satisfied herself, she next turned to Baba Baresh and Ara. She said, "I have not been in this city long, but I have lived my whole life in cities, and I have noticed the reaction to your little pets. I, myself, have nothing against animals, but we are attracting a lot of attention, and not all of it positive. I think it would be best if we did not flaunt our differences so openly, even in such a cosmopolitan city as this. If you can not leave your friends in your room, I can hide them for you so that others can not see them. I do not think it wise to do it now, or even in sight of others, but perhaps tomorrow morning before we get ready to leave I could look after that?"

Baba turned to the Nyobian boy.
Said your name was Gnaag......................................Interesting.

Well, First off, you need to turn the map around. You’re looking at it upside down.
Baba watched while Gnaag turned the map around, feeling it, as if it was some prized jewel.

He then lent forward, close to the boy and whispered almost in his ear; “Never learnt to read, hey Gnaag. Don’t worry it will be our secret. I’ll help you.”

Then leaning back a little he said; “You see that blue on the right, well that represents the sea, and the little blocks with colored roofs, they represent buildings of importance.

The buildings with the Purple roofs, make up the Government Buildings. Remember when you went to see Bharat Desani, you walked up a street with a round building on one end and a square one at the other end, well that was that street, pointing at The Street.

After leaving the Bharat, we crossed a street and came into this building. You saw as we walked across, that there was a street to our left, and from the setting sun at our right, we had to be going south. That means we’re in the building on the left, next to the street, just below the Government Buildings. So all a map is, is a picture of what the city looks like.”

Let’s go to the The Drunken Alligator Tavern. It the next building south, just across the alley. There are less likely to be spies over there. I’ll vouch for you, otherwise you wouldn’t get in. They make a mean weed rat stew. http://forum.gamingsource.net/index.php?showtopic=16928

Without waiting for a reply, Baba stands up and walks out of the side door. Sael and @#%$&$@*#, the wolf silently follows him

"So with this I will be traveling.." Tiax whispers ot himself. "It could have been worse I quess"
Tiax stands up and walks through the bar.. Lookong at the commonners, party members, waitressers and Aerial the Snow Owl.. Hmm nice creature, pretty relyable.. Tiax thinks. If raised with care and love.
"Time to look at that map.. Oh Mandrake would you mind making another copy?" Tiax starts to study the map.. "Even in this bar my mind is clouded.." Tiax thinks "I can hardly find where we are now........ We'll I will study that copy more often. I WILL learn."

Gnaag still knew that he had to learn more to get familiar with the map. But it was better. He found someone who he could rely on. Someone who would not tease him because of his age or height. He was happy in a certain way. He found a missimng dad...

"Thank you Baba Berthran. You helped me very much. I will be pleased to travel with you."

Gnaag followed Baba to the tavern across the alley. They he found quieter atmosphere. It was just for his mood. Nothing could be better.

"No ,I won't mind making a map for anyone who wants one just give me an hour or some."
/ooc by the way is the rp time related to rl time if so to what extend

"I thank you Mandrake... I will be out for the night, the barkeeper has my list of what to buy. Do not worry I will be back in time."
Tiax, slowly but surely, walks out... Even he has no idea to where to.

That crazy old man, T’skar thinks to herself when she hears Tiax say he is going off alone for the night, Where does he think he’s going? She gets up and follows the others out the door and across the street.

Baba walks into the bar and goes over to the barman. Bharat Desani said we should leave this list with you. Baba takes one more look at the list before handing it over.

List of requirements.
Baba needs - Fine Yew bow + 20 Arrows, Pair of size 4 leather sneakers, 2 water flasks.
Kalmer needs - Rations for Kyah, his trusty steed, and a cloak to conceal his bow and belt.
Tiax needs - Rations for another 11 days, Alchemy equipment to make any potions (if herbs are present), Maps of surroundings.
Gnaag needs - 30 arrows, 2 water flasks, insect repellent.
Sael needs - Any spell ingredients required. Insect repellent, Soap (Pears)
Ara needs - Matches, Bow.
Mandrake needs – Pens & ink.
Group needs – Extra pack horse

I’m going to my room for a short rest, could you send someone to call me when my companions get back.
Oh and barman, could you please ask the cook to add extra garlic to our food, as I’ve noticed this seems to keep the insects at bay.

For a couple of seconds Tiax walked with closed eyes through The Street..
"I can not seem to focus in this city.. To much chaos, in their minds, their way of life and the rumors they have heard makes it even worse......"
No with open eyes he asks himself where he was..
"I went through The Street and walked past the gouverment buildings, I saw a palace on my left.. So I went west." Tiax thinks while picturing the map. "Took the third road left.. There was a temple, The Fortune Temple.. Went across water then left again.. Hmm I take a lot of left turns. Followed the road while it made a right turn. Turned right....... So here somewhere must be the.. The. Temple of Wisdom." While looking at the stars and then his staff he thinks "Time to head back. I may yet need some rest. This is tiresome for my mind."
Tiax walks back the road he just pictured..

Baba Berthran left Gnaag in bar. So the time of knowing of companions came. Gnaag saw a young Tagfieran. He seemed to be a bit lost when an older mage went out. Gnaag hated mages. The young one was probably older's apprentice. Maybe his soul wasn't already in mage's hands. Maybe he could be saved. Gnaag stepped to him.

"Hi. I think we are the youngest among them. My name is Gnaag. Can I offer you a drink?"

Gnaag looked at his almost empty pouch hanged on his belt. Hopefully it would be enough to make at least one friend in company.

When Baba got up after his rest, he went down to the bar.

The barman informed him that one of Bharat Desani's people, had been in to get the list.

Baba ordered a glass of mead, settled himself a the corner table, intent on studying the map of Papred.

Where had the group gone............................it was Sunday afternoon, damn it!
Just hope they don’t get into any trouble, or cause any................................

Mandrake looks at the list that baba made he couldn't believe how many things baba forgot Mandrake gave his own list to the bartender and teared up baba's list, although he didn't write down what was asked by who the list was atleast complete.
--------------------------------------------
- more coleurs of ink
- a small knife
- a guitar(with six steel strings) with a proective sheet
- a book on how to learn to play guitar
- Rations for Kyah, his trusty steed
- a cloak to conceal his bow and belt
- Fine Yew bow + 20 Arrows
- Pair of size 4 leather sneakers
- Rations for another 11 days
- Alchamy equipment to make any potions (if herbs are present)
- Maps of suroundings (perhaps that mandrake would make some more, or should I buy them...)
- more arrows
- something to drink, he will probably ask for some kind of alcohol
- new shoes
- Any spell ingredients required.
- Insect repellent
- Soap (Pears)
- Matches
- Bow
---------------------------------------------

Barman, could you please tell all of the people in our group to, please go to The Drunken Alligator and check thier details so that I can post them, tonight.

http://forum.gamingsource.net/index.php?showtopic=16928

Hearing the request the Barman shouts across Baba-John's request.

Then he adds "Some have been trying out my new alcoholic beverage. It is called 'oblivion'. I have to discovered that to the poorly disciplined mind it can have peculiar side effects of addiction and the inducing of forgetfulness. Unfortunately any who are not here when Bharat returns will be left behind. Nevertheless you may get new blood joining you from time to time I undertsand.

Barman, Here is our list of the Group’s Info.

Name – Baba Bethram
From – Lampur
Race – Bashkerian
Class – Shaman/Marksman
Weapons - Staff of Grounding, Ram’s Stag horn war bow, Steel Dagger 6’ and a Small Vial Curare Poison (can be used in any weapon)
Skills - Chant – Heals comrades in 10 yard radius, Turnip sleep, Affinity with Animals, Herbalist and Blacksmithing.
Gender – Male
Age – 48

Name – Gnaag
From – Tokonage
Race – Niyobian
Class – Fighter/Marksman
Weapons - Short sword and Fine Yew bow + 27 Arrows
Skills – Hiding, Riding - almost on anything and washing up.
Gender – Male
Age - 14

Name – Kalmer Naowen
From – Neomer's March
Race – Tagfier
Class – Hunter/Tracker
Weapons - Huntsman's Bow, 200 arrows (normal and poisoned), huntsman's knife
Skills - Marksman, dagger, hand-to-hand, acute senses of sight, hearing and smell, excellent climber.
Gender – Male
Age – 32

Name – Ara Lothea
From – Evale
Race – Bashkerian
Class – Tracker/Light Fighter
Weapons - Concealed Katana worn on back, two throwing knifes on either leg, Bow and 30 arrows.
Skills - Affinity with Snow Owl, words of healing, Turnip sleep
Gender – Female
Age – 21

Name – T’Skar
From – Alcomvar
Race – Tagfieran Wanderer/Wizard
Class –Thief/Mind Mage
Weapons - Silver Dagger worn in a special sheath between her shoulder blades, normal Iron Dagger worn at left side.
Skills - Conceal and reveal, Mind Mage magic
Gender - Female
Age – 23

Name – Sael
From – Onetime
Race – Dayone
Class – Earth Wizard
Weapons - Wooden wizards staff and dagger
Skills - true speak/detect lie, healing and restoration type magic
Gender – Male
Age - 28

Name – Tiax Anderson
From – (Origin Unknown)
Race – Tagfieran
Class – Time Mage
Weapons - Oak staff
Skills - Time magic, staff fighting, identifying and intelligence. Horsemanship, herb lore, enchanting and restoration due manipulation of time.
Gender – Male
Age - 32

Name – Mandrake Kaides
From – (Origin Unknown)
Race – Tagfieran wanderer
Class – Cartographer/Scribe
Weapons - Staff 2.5 meter
Skills - conceal and reveal magic
Gender – Male
Age - 19

A representative from Bharat collects your lists and delivers the items you requested witha few minor exceptions.

The list is annotated as follows.

Sneakers - the word is unknown to us. Is it some quiet footwear used by thieves? We have done the best we can. You have a pair of bright pink woolly slippers.

Something to drink - three bottles of water

More arrows - 20 arrows (iron)

New shoes - black leather walking boots

Spell ingredients - what is this? There is no magic in Bashkher!

Soap (Pears) - not sure what this means, we have no way to manufacture soap from pears so we have three alternatives You have 'garlic' soap, 'lemon scented' soap and a bag of 10 pears.

Matches - you did not say what you wanted matches to, so we could not fulfil this order

The following information was extracted from the archives. Very little more than you already know.

The whereabouts of the known swords you have. The numbers are 2 in Papred, 4 & 7 in Dohoti, 6 in Memtuz and 3 in Ippikander. 1,5,8 and 9 are lost or destroyed. The acknowledged living expert is Zarim Bembolia who lives in or near Golconar.

When you have your elected leader you can rest for a night and then set off to wherever you choose first.

Baba thanks the representative from Bharat, and taking only the things he had ordered.

He sneaks off to do his deed, while everyone is still sleeping or out.

In Gnaag room he places the Fine Yew bow + 20 Arrows, insect repellent, black leather walking boots, 2 pears and one of the water flasks.

In Sael’s room he places Insect repellent, 2 pears, 'lemon scented' soap and another of the water flasks.

In Ara’s room, he places her Bow and 30 arrows, 2 pears and the pair of bright pink woolly slippers.

In T’Skar’s room he slips a set of masters lock picks and probes, that he had bought in The Drunken Alligator, along with 2 of the pears under her pillow.

For himself he keeps the 'garlic' soap, 2 pears, 1 water flasks, insect repellent.

He heads for bed. Tomorrows gonna be a long day.................................................

Kalmer has remained silent throughout all this conversation, though his mind is ablaze with thought. Tomorrow will be a long day indeed. He is not fond of the city or of its ways, but he will have to learn to deal with it if they are to get to the bottom of this enigma. He retires to his quarters, but not without first "speaking" for some minutes to Kyah, as if reassuring him in some way. Kyah is not accustomed the metropolis either, nor is he bred to be a pack-horse, but he too will have some adapting to do, it seems.



Man and beast alike can only take heart in that soon they are to be out on the open land that they have so long called home, although "home" is so very far away.........

Mordred takes his new stuff and drops it in his room.
he takes out the guitar and the tutriol book and sits down in an empty corner.
Mordred starts practecing until the bartender closes off and goes to bed.

Coming back to the Pearl of Bashkher the night of that first eventful day, T’skar heads back up to her room. She checks her belongings, and has a very nice nights rest in a VERY comfortable bed. Rising early the next morning, which happens occasionally, she heads down to the tavern, to see if any others are stirring and to fill the void in her middle. Entering the room, she doesn’t recognize any of the others in the room, so settles at a table and orders fried ham, two eggs, and bread and butter, with a nice cold glass of milk to wash it all down. After finishing her sumptuous feast, she looks for someone she knows. Still not seeing any of the others, she approaches the barman. She asks where the best clothing market is, and after getting directions, she sets out in the early morning light.

Following the directions that the barman gave her, she heads to the market. Looking at all the styles and colors, she wonders So many choices, I wonder which would be best for my purpose. She spies a wrinkled crone at one stall eying her, almost sizing her up. She walks boldly over to the elderly woman and asks what she is looking at. “An outlander, unless I miss my guess” the crone responds. T’skar can only agree. “You seem a little overwhelmed. Maybe I could be of some assistance” she offers. Gratefully accepting the offer of help, T’skar tells the elderly woman her need, “I have always prided myself on being able, not having to rely on my femininity or others. But last night I noticed that that same femininity can be a tool as well, even a weapon.” The old woman looks at her with a knowing smile, “You are right my dear, it can be used to make men do many things for you, even die if necessary, but it can be a two edged sword as you have pointed out - rely on it too much, and then you are in bondage as much as the man. So what would you have me do?” T’skar looked at the aged female, and said, “I would like some clothing that I could use to exploit that power, using it in a time of need.” The crone eyed the younger woman, and said, “I have just what you need.” Reaching into her wares, she pulled out a black skirt and matching blouse, she also handed T’skar a gold pin in the shape of a palm frond. Digging deeper, she came up with a beautiful white blouse and skirt, both cut in the peasant style, but obviously not in the rough cloth of a serving wench. “These will accent your figure nicely, and won’t clash with your hair and eyes.” T’skar said to the old woman “I thank you very much. These are to be charged to Bharat Desani.” Upon hearing the name, the old woman sucks in her breath sharply “If you had told me it was for him, I could have done much better, much more expensive.” T’skar looks at the old lady and says, “No, I think this will serve my purpose nicely.” With that she makes her way back to the Pearl of Bashkher.

By the time she returns it is evening. Entering the tavern, she looks to see if she can spy any of her companions. None here again, she thinks, Well, I hope they had as productive a day as I did. Sitting to order another meal, she dines alone again before going up the stairs. Heading to her room, she sees Baba’s door just closing. I wonder what he’s up to now? she asks herself. Years of living on the streets have honed her senses, so upon entering her room she notices something is different. She looks around from the door, and then spies it, the pillow has been moved. Carefully moving it to the side, she sees what has been placed under it. Two pears? Nice picks and probes though. she admires, I wonder what his game is? Going back to the door, she looks at Baba’s door, which is still closed. Closing her own, she hides the picks and probes in her pack, and gets ready for bed. It will be interesting to see what the morrow brings, she thinks as she drifts off to sleep.

Ara awoke the next morning feeling fairly refreshed. Sitting up and stretching she looked down at the blankets on the floor. Then she turned to her untouched bed. It was too soft and comfortable. She could not sleep in it. At home in Evale, she had nothing but a straw cot to lay on. The closest thing that resembled this texture was the carpeted floor. So she had made do. Aena was in the open window frame, her beak bloodied from her breakfast. Ara was glad this event had occurred while she was still asleep. To many times had she awoken to find the dangling remains of a rodent from the owl's beak. Staring at the owl, Ara remembered her dream. Aena had spoken to her. But the voice was memorable. It was her mother's voice. Ara had never heard her mother speak but somehow she knew it to be hers. What did the voice say?

You're destiny awaits in Golconar.

Remembering this, Ara got to her feet. Aena stared back in silence. She shook her head. Aena never spoke. She only listened. In deep thought Ara tripped over something. She looked down and noticed two bright pink slippers.

Men.

She shook her head and grinned.

Maybe I'll wear them in battle just to prove my worth.

Turning away from the slippers she saw finely crafted bow and a satchel of arrows. She picked it up and examined it. It was beautiful. Whoever had crafted it spent a good deal of effort. It's mahogony sheen glistened and when Ara pulled back the taut string, it snapped with a satisfying twang. Examining the iron arrows she mentally made a note to thank whoever had brought them. She had forgot to request arrows along with the bow. As she examined the bow, Aena rustled her feathers and flew to her shoulder. Wincing as the owl's talons dug into her skin, Ara looked around for the washing basin. Finding it in what she thought was a closet, she went to the nearby sink and using the nearby bucket, filled it with steaming hot water. Then she removed soap and shampoo from the satchel laying by the ground near her armor. Enjoying the hot water, Ara cleaned herself of the impurities and readied herself for a new day. Feeling guilty that her father probably couldn't afford any hot water at all, she quickly finished bathing. Getting dressed and hiding her weapons as neatly as possible, she made her way down to the bar.

OOC> A map of Bashkher is on the way shortly. As you haven't got it yet (my fault) I will give some information. If you wish to go to Golconar there are two ways to get there both via Dohoti. Overland camel train to Dohoti or sea voyage to Dohoti and then sea voyage to Golconar. As there are two swords in Dohoti it is probably worth visiting them en route but that is up to you. However there are other direct routes from Papred. You can travel by sea to Memtuz or along the river to Zooz (it is quite a long way). Ippikander is a long way off and would not be the most obvious starting point. These are the cities mentioned in connection with the swords to date.

What a glorious rest T'skar sighs as she opens her eyes on to a bright new day. Loath to leave the comfort of her bed, she finally makes her way to a stand with a basin, ewer, and mirror on it. Looking at herself in the mirror, she pours some of the hot water into the basin and starts to scrub herself with a damp cloth. Nothing like the sand scrubs at home, she thinks, And yet, maybe as effective.

When she finishes washing, she looks at the clothes she aquired the day before. Picking up the white blouse, she holds it close to her skin a relishes the soft feel of the material. Then she folds it up and sticks it in her pack, Today may be the start of travel, not the best time to wear new clothes, she thinks. Putting on her old tan pants, blouse, and boots, she heads down to the tavern, looking for the rest.

When they show up, she says, "It seems pertinent at this time to discuss what we are going to do next. We have information from the archives, and maybe it would be good to follow that up, but first we need to talk about something more pressing. We need a captain, someone who can direct us, and who's lead we can follow. I think we have already followed one, and have trusted his judgement - I am talking about Baba Bethram. He has submitted our papers, I believe, and has looked after our other needs as well." Inclining her head in a bow of acknowledgement, she continues, "I would be willing to follow him, for the time being at least, and see what develops." Ending her speach, she sits back and waits for the others to respond.

Tiax was sitting on the floor of his room, his bed untouched, he opens his eyes with a faint blue glow in it. On the sign that hangs on his door, "Do not disturb.", the text fades away as if it has hung there for decades.
He stands up packs his rations, new alchemy equipment, herbs, scroll case, puts on his mantle and potionbelt.

He closes his eyes and walks towards the door.

"What a fine day... Time to check who is choosen as the leader."

While listening to the upcoming noise of the city, "I seem to have gotten more used to it.", he walks down. He walks straight up to the barman and asks for some boiling water to make his own thee. (used up one leaf of rancer 22 left) He opens his eyes and looks at the group.

"And what will hapen today?" He asks to Baba. "I think we will have to split to make this search more quicker."

OOC ==> Sorry for not posting so long but my comp still hates this site so I need to be at school or very lucky.. I mean last saturday entire night this site is acasable (srry for the word) and when finally a post arrives.. cant dispay the page..

Mandrake wakes up and walkes to the window. he opens it and looks outside.
""what a beutyfull day to start a journey.""he thinks to himself.
before he goes down for some breakfest he washes himself with the ice cold water, in the bassin, in the closet.

Then Mandrake packs his belongings, he can't fit his guitar in his sack,wich he made out of his leather cloak. so he decides that the horse wil carry it.

Mandrake walks into the bar and sits down next to Baba and tiax, and he orders some bread and a piece of cheese. "any luck on finding the correct route" he asks. "I think we can best go to Dohoti and then after a couple of days move on to Golconar. But Your the wisemen its up to you to decide." he eats his bread and cheese and then starts to read his book titled guitar playing, and how to do it..

Baba has a restless night.......................................................

When morning comes he dreads getting out of bed.

Once more he is being asked to lead a group, who chose him as their leader, for no other reason than, it’s convenient.

What did they know of Baba..................

The hardships he had faced.....................

The torment that he called his past...........

The loved ones that he had lost................

All because of his foolish pride.................

He had led them to their death just because.................

A fool’s errand................

Who was he to think they could face the T'mor'dendians, and walk away unscathed....................

All had withered away slowly until eventually they had just.......................

And Baba had returned........................Victorious. (huh huh hu hu hu hu hu hu hu)

He had lost everything that he held dear, and the damn bureaucrats considered this, A Great Victory.

It was starting all over again, most of them just out of swaddling blankets and here they were.............

Not even two days together and the tensions are mounting.

How do they think they’re going to handle 6 or 8 weeks of traveling......................

He never should have come, but the world needed him..................Again.

Baba got up, washed himself with his new Garlic soap and headed down to the bar for some thing to drink, maybe even some of that Oblivion, the barman had mentioned.

On entering he saw that all were present so he said in a voice that carried,”Some of you have approached me, about being the spokesman for the group. I regret to inform you that I will be unable to do this, unless the vote is unanimous. As to our destination, I’m with Ara and T’Skar on this one, but suggest we go by overland camel train to Dohoti and then take a boat trip to see Zarim Bembolia who lives in or near Golconar”

He then sat down and ordered breakfast, even though he had no appetite.

None have seen him rise, none have seen him have breakfast, gather his belongings and go out into the street, but he is there organising Kyah's load, and mumbling as if speaking to his beloved companion.



Kalmer has in fact been up for over an hour, has fed Kyah and has almost finished sorting out their equipment, when he hears his companions congregating inside the inn. He enters to join them.



He sits opposite Baba, Tiax and Mandrake - who has himself only just sat down - and addresses Baba.



"It seems that you, Baba Bethram, are well acquainted with the ways of this land, being born of it yourself, and thus have my vote as appointed negotiator. Like it or not you are the best indicated for such a responsibility. But I am not one to hold a man to anything against his will. Do as you see fit, and we will all stand by your decision.



"If, however, you should at any time need of my knowledge of plainsfolk and wandering tribes, I shall be happy to assist. Although I have no knowledge of the Bashkherians themselves, as a wanderer I have considerable experience in dealing with non-cityfolk."





(OOC





Mandrake, please clarify the means by which you intend to have "the horse" carry your guitar. OOC)

ooc/ I meant the extra pack horse baba bought

OOC:







Sorry, I've been out of action doing the world map for days and hadn't seen the new horsie. No offense intended!

OOC => Horsie!!

Map of Bashkher courtesy of karkarinus.

Gnaag was eating when Baba entered. The words of not being good for leadership. Theys seemed strange for Gnaag. Baba was surely the best choice for them. No one could lead them better. But Gnaag didn't say anything, he knew that his weak words wouldn't have any weight in the group. But he looked at Bab with the view of fear. If not trustworthy Baba, then who? Who could be the leader. Hopefully no mage...

Tiax stands up and walks to Gnaag. He says to Gnaag;"If you have something against me... I shall have to live with it. But bear in mind that his soul.." Tiax looks at Mandrake.."Is neither mine or yours to give or take." Tiax sits at is place again.. "If not Baba.. Hwo will lead us then?"

OOC> The popular vote is for Baba who has said Dohoti by camel train and then Golconar by sea. If he agrees then I will get you out of Papred and into Dohoti. In Dohoti you can split up if you wish.

If the vote is for me to lead then so be it.

We go by overland camel train to Dohoti and then take a boat trip to see Zarim Bembolia who lives in or near Golconar as was suggested.