Chronicles of A Twisted Ascension IC

[AlanBruce]

@Einkil: So there were machines here.

Well, not here in Halmathan, but on the other side of the wall. In all your years here, you never really bothered to dig into this City's history regarding warfare- there was no war then. And there sure isn't one now. Yes, people still needed weapons- if only for decor. Dwarven craftsmanship does not go unnoticed.

But with the new regime, who needs those anymore? The City is as safe as it can be. But does the same apply to The Mercy? If any of those machines are still ticking and manned by someone there and your company ran afoul of them, could they deal with such a foe?

Flesh can bleed by a precise and well placed cut. A good whack from a hammer can knock a foe unconscious...

The same cannot be said about an enemy that was never alive to begin with. These theories swirl in your mind as you descend to the forge and dust off your armor and shield. return to Khedesh and mourn the fallen? It's doable. Who would blame you if you were to do that? Their memory would still be honored with the highest dwarven traditions, but...

Your kind is stubborn. Some would say dangerously so. Verify what haunts your mind. Put these ghosts that gnaw your mind at peace and in so doing, your own conscience. Sir Randolph and his paladins have been most generous to you, but staying idle will not help your cause and those of your comrades. And so, you begin donning the heavy armor, fashioned after the oldest caves in the world as pieces of crumbling rock seem to roll down your spaulders, only to be absorbed back into the metal.

What little you know of this place is that it's a den of thieves. Whatever look you may have, you'll be a new face in a ruined hungry corner of this City. Your hammer alone is likely to catch attention from the crowd and why didn't you or any in your company purchase a bag to stow away all this?!

Hopefully the bear cloak is enough to hide your armor and earthen trappings... but it's not. If anything, it makes you look even fancier. Awesome.

The paladins watch you go and shake your hand firmly, some even patting you on the back.

Don't be a stranger, Moradin Son!

May the Archpaladin and the Soul Forger grant you strength and wisdom on your journeys.

You still look like a square... but a damn mighty one. Don't let anyone give you hell out there, okay?

Sir Randolph isn't there to say good bye to you. He already did earlier and who knows what he's doing cooped up in his room all day and night. He and his order may be on lock down, but not you, as the gates close behind you and the rain immediately drenches your cloak as you walk down the street looking to hail a cab, but preferably a carriage. Horses are rarely if ever seen back in your homeland. They don't do well underground. Makes the animals go crazy and disoriented.

Also, humans are rude. At least three times you were about to board a carriage when some fool would shove you aside or use their longer legs to sprint towards the vehicle, leaving you cursing in terran under your breath as you walk a few more blocks under the rain before you catch sight of an old carriage. The horse is just done feeding off a bucket as the coach man picks it up and stashes it in the trunk as he opens the door for you and is about to help you up, but decides not to, since you look awfully heavy with all that armor on.

"Where to, sir... the Mercy? Really? Okay, then!'''

The ride is a long one. The temple of Heironeous is in the Royal District and you're crossing the entire City... with traffic from those smoke belching machines that cause you, the coachman and even the horse to cough in their wake.

A bit over an hour before the carriage stops in an alley and the coachman squeezes his cape from all the water that's soaked in.

"This is as far as I can take you, sir. One gold.""

Transportation used to be free here. But it's all for the King's Campaign. And who doesn't want to see the King back?

The horse neighs wildly and nearly causes the coachman to fall off his seat before he whips the animal back in place and after being paid, is quick to turn his carriage around and drive back to cleaner and safer streets as you find yourself walking into long corridors made of white fabric. Tents, but arranged like a maze. The smell of blood is strong here as City Guards watch your every move and shake their head before you even consider asking anything about the smell and stains in some of the tents.

Just keep walking. Eyes straight.

And then you reach a meek scrawny man dressed in a white tunic. No religious symbols on him, but he is flanked by a small group of guards as he scratches his balding head and walks up to you. Not as tall as the rest. Just slightly taller than you, in fact. A short one among the tall folk, as he looks at one of the guards and points at you.

"You think it's the rainwater? Living under power lines...ha! Okay, sir dwarf. Welcome to Halmathan's dumpster. By Law, I have to ask you:

Do you really want to go in there?"

[jdizzlean]

It is difficult to know whether the lady spoke truth, or was simply trying to weasel her way out of something. She appeared to have accepted her fate as inevitable. It has never been my belief to follow blindly, nor accept things the way they are presented. Look at my own life, had I not challenged things, i would be but a mere innkeeper's son still sitting on a stool on rowdy nights trying to keep the customers from killing each other, or pinching the help. I don't know anyone in the diplomatic quarter to ask about this Na'wa al-Habai, nor to inquire about the nature of the Sand Sea. That can be left for another time. Since the evening meal is still quite a ways off, perhaps I can visit the wall however, and speak to some of the guard there as to the status of the outer lands.

Driver, take me to the Wall.

[RCgothic]

Laura isn't at all shocked by the roasted rat. In fact it brings back some pleasant memories. It's hard to beat a good rat roast when you're starving. She has a kindly attitude towards folk just trying to survive the way she once did.

"Relax, I'm not here to take your rat. I'm just looking for my friend. I heard she might be at the colloseum, or that Father Borazon might know something. I'm not afraid of this Kurgen, or of ghosts. You say Nana might be able to help me? I'll make it worth your while."

She reaches under her heavy cloak to withdraw a generous (though not ridiculous) inducement from her coin purse. She may have sympathy for these people, but she knows enough of their tricks from first hand experience to keep her valuables under close scrutiny while dealing with them.

[Fliggl]

Remiel wanted to get to his destination as quickly as possible: Mercy. But the burned district was far away and shapechanging was not an option. Still, there was no question that he would ever sit in one of these stinking vehicles.

The stench, the many many people who ignored each other (except him. They gawked at him) and did not care for their fellow man, the destruction of nature, yes, its complete abstinence, and worst of all: the noise. The unendurable constant noise. And when you think it can't get any louder, something even louder appears somewhere. Another reason why he had left town.

He looked around and found a good old, ordinary carriage across the street. Quickly Remiel crossed the road and greeted first the horse, then the coachman: "Greetings, coachman! A beautiful horse you have there. Tell me, can you take me to the edge of town, to the Great Wall? And how much is it?"

[AlanBruce]

@Remiel: Crossing a street in the middle of traffic is rarely a good idea.

The horns blaring in your ears, intertwined by a bevy of insults are one of the many reasons “progress” in this City should be greatly evaluated.

The coach man shushes the other cabbies around him and motions for you to open the door and get inside.

“Sir, you could have hailed me from the park. It’s dangerous to cross the street so recklessly!

I can get you as close to the wall as I’m allowed, sir. It will be one gold piece, though.”

You knew it would cost you. Just not how much. Still, it’s to bring back the king, so every penny counts.

The ride is long. The City is big, but with an over abundance of vehicles- both horse and steam powered- getting to your destination takes a bit over an hour before the carriers has to swerve as another one rides at top speed past you, causing both coachmen to exchange rude pleasantries before your ride comes to a stop in front of two massive buildings and the entrance to a complex set of.... medical tents?

“Have a good one, sir.”

The coachman is quick to turn tail and head back to the City proper. You came all the way here for your own reasons, which matter little to the City Guard as they lead you through a maze of white cloth stained occasionally with red as coughing can be heard from other tents, but the guards don’t let you stop and take a gander.

The guard asks you to stop within the twisting tent tunnels as you hear a distant conversation. A mumbling between two people.

Once the conversation dies, the guard leads you to a man made tunnel and a scrawny short man in white surrounded by more guards as he slaps his face in disbelief.

“Did I miss the memo? Or are you guys pulling a fast one on me? Anyways...”

The man looks up at you and sighs while rolling his eyes.

“Okay, sir. By Law I must ask if you really want to go into The Mercy. Why would you is beyond my understanding and care, but it’s what I’m being paid.”



@Davish: The Law is absolute...

Of that you are certain of it. However, there is a reason why Lady Justice has a blindfold.

The accused is now prisoner in the Castello, a place she will never leave. Her name and homeland are unknown to you. Something to inquire about at a later time. Perhaps her words were minced with lies. Perhaps they are too good a lie. Enough to have you go deep in thought as you order the coach man to take you to the wall the moment you leave St. Noria’s.

The coachman looks at you with a slight bit of trepidation but dares not question someone such as yourself.

Once in the City, with the northern gate safely shut, the coachman sighs as the rain doesn’t give up and takes a different route than the mounted Royal Guards, whom all were headed to the Palace of Justice.

They do not pursue, instead they watch you get lost in the rain and traffic, most likely fearful of engaging you.

It takes nearly two hours to reach the Wall. Or most likely a giant checkpoint of white tents that stretches several blocks.

Having the emblem of the Cudgel on the carriage, this one carries clout over any other used for public transportation.

Enough for one of the City Guards to open the door for you and raise an eyebrow as you step out.

“Uhhhh... excuse me sir. Are you supposed to be here?”

[Fliggl]

Thank you, Sir, and have a good day. Remiel is glad that the ride didn't took longer than about an hour. He hands over the goldpiece and turns around to the tents.

To claim that the greeting was cold would be exaggerated. But since he's not here for kindness, but to go to Mercy, it doesn't really matter.

The way through the tents was confusing, but Remiel tried not to lose his bearings [Survival (1d20+20)[39] ]. Just as he tried to understand what was being said [Listen (1d20+21)[28] ].

When the little one stood in front of him, Remiel only replied "yes, I want to"

[AlanBruce]

@Laura: These people must think you want their food.

That may have been true many years ago, when you lived as a street urchin in the streets, fighting for your next meal, if there was one to be had.

You enjoy the blessings of the house of Kord. Plenty of food to pass around there. Maybe one day this place will receive its due break, but for now you need to find people.

They talk about some Kurgen guy. Not a problem.

They mention ghosts? If such a thing existed... not a problem either.

But standing in the rain will get you nowhere and coin speaks louder than any word. A single silver is enough to catch their attention and best manners as two of them bow profusely while one pockets the silver piece and lead you deeper into The Mercy.

A bunch of people watch you as they seek shelter from the rain and it becomes apparent that despite the place being in ruins, it’s far worse as some buildings look recently boarded- badly boarded. But most buildings have a broad red stroke painted on the door as some beggars stand a prudent distance away from these homes, rudimentary weapons ready.

The beggars you hired lead you about twenty or thirty blocks in. Not a direct path by any means before they stop at a curiously tidy looking inn with a wooden sign barely clinging to the wall as the rain keeps pouring down mercilessly.

“That’s the Bitter Coffee. Inside you’ll find Nana Rose, the owner. And be watchful with what you say or do:

Nana doesn’t like violence in her joint. See ya around.”

[AlanBruce]

@Remiel: So long, equine buddy. May your master take you to safer places than this one.

Why would they have tents like this in the City? Who knows, but navigating through them, daunting as it may seem, should be easy for you. Just get familiar with the signs:

A smudge of blood over there.

A bloody handprint a few meters in to the right.

What seems like blood stained footsteps leading to another tent further down and to the left.

A claw mark against a tent that has been badly patched further in.

This, of course, assuming they don’t clean the stains and reorganize the tents- these are makeshift checkpoints. Easily assembled and disassembled.

The guards escort you all the way and your keen hearing catches on to someone responding about the Mercy and entrance to it.

When your turn comes around, the tunic wearing fellow shrugs and points to a single long tunnel.

“That’s the way, if you want it so badly. Have fun...”

No guards to follow. No more check points. And once you exit, the awful stench of a City abandoned to its cruel fate.

The Mercy is huge. Who knows where to start looking, but at least Connor’s presence here will not impede your investigation.

[dantiesilva]

As he is departing he exchanges pleasantries with each of those he passes, promising to return in the morning if he was able and still alive.

Catching a carriage had to be the worst thing he had ever tried. Each time he was about to get close to one another person got their first. If only his short dwarven legs could move a bit faster. Can't they see I called that damn carriage over here first. By the gods they have no manners or respect. he says in terran, speaking to his hammer, though not looking down at it. At last drenched from head to toe, which wasn't saying much given his height, he finally spotted a carriage with no one around. "Oh thank Moradin!" he says in common as he gets to the carriage. " I was afraid I was going to be to late and someone would have gotten to you first." he says panting a bit as he had jogged half the way there just to make sure no one got there first.

"Oh I'm just as surprised as you are Sir. In all the years I have lived in this fine city of yours I never thought I would have to go to that part of town." the dwarf replies to the carriage driver, agreeing that it was an odd place to ask to go.

Having been raised all his life in mountain cavern's around a forge almost day and night you would think he would be used to smoke by now. However as the acidic tasting smoke blew into Einkil's face he found himself chocking on it. "I must say I have worked the forge my whole life and never smelt a smoke like that. What is it?" he asks, wrinkling his nose up in disgust of the smell.

As they arrive at their destination at last Einkil gets out of the carriage and smile's, that is until he is reminded it is raining by the *dink* like sound the water kept making each time it splashed against his armor. "My god sir you have been out in the rain with your fine steed all day, here take this for your responsibility to the people." he says taking out a second gold coin and handing the two of them to the driver. No one should have to work in the freezing cold with rain soaking through their clothes and not be rewarded for their sacrifice. As Mordain believed there was nothing finer then an honest day of work, and no higher calling then serving your community or clan.

As he arrives at the place he notices all the strange white tents and is about to ask a question before the guards tell him to just keep walking and not ask questions. Odd, perhaps they have a waiting room for us to ask our questions? And what is with all this blood, were they attacked? the dwarf thinks to himself, after all he had not heard anything like this on the great flying things in the sky. Twists and turns, roundabouts, it was clear a person could get lost trying to traverse this alone, and more then once he thanked the guards for pointing him in the right direction.

When at last he came to the man at the desk with the group of guards he smiles, though it quickly turns to a look of loss as he is reminded why he is here. "Greetings sir, in all honesty I would like nothing more to be back home in my nice war bed, spending time with my family. However my kin came here a month ago and have not been heard from since. As their spiritual leader I was tasked with retrieving their bodies for proper burial." he answers honestly to the short fellow behind the desk. "I just have a few questions if you do not mind before I enter. I understand you are a busy man and am willing to pay for your time." he says pulling out a gold coin.

Spoiler: If he agrees to answer a few questions

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"While walking through these tents I noticed blood stains here and there as well as a few claw marks, I had heard the Mercy was a vile and dangerous place where cutthroats and thieves live but we are still in the city proper, what is going on? Are they attacking you here trying to get free?" he asks, generally concerned for the men and women serving here at this checkpoint.

Spoiler: OOC

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Will save other questions for after he answers this one.

[AlanBruce]

@Einkil: The coachman coughs loudly at your question and covers his mouth and nose while keeping his eyes on the road.

"Fumes.""

And that's all he has to say about that. The extra coin is, of course, received. Who would deny a tip after all? And then you are led through the maze of medical tents, raising more questions that you had considered to ask. Except when you reach the man at the end of the maze, surrounded by a small group of well fit guards.

The man raises an eyebrow as you begin to inform him your reasons for coming here. The guards can be heard sighing loudly and the this is echoed by the short man, who grabs a pen and you can see he's not even writing anything on the paper, clearly not amused by this while mock scribbling.

"Look, your life story must be something amazing to share in some cave drinking ale or whatever it is you people like. I am a public servant and to be perfectly frank, I could not care one iota about your kin and whatever insane reason you may have to come to this place.""

The man stops scribbling and then looks at you, squinting his beady eyes.

"I must also remind you that as a public official of the City of Halmathan, you offering me money could be considered a bribe. That, unless you have been living under a rock- and who knows if that's the actual case- is illegal. So, just because I am this close from snapping due to the goddamn weather we're having this morning, I am going to ask you one last time:

Are you going in, or not? A simple question that DOES NOT require a question as an answer.""

[jdizzlean]

No sooner has the driver let him know that they had reached their destination, but the door opens and a member of the Guard is questioning him as to his supposed purpose for being here.

Guardsman Private, do you think I would be here for some reason if I didn't need to be? Since the door is open already, Davish jumps out and calls up to the driver. Driver, you will await my return. Of course you shouldn't suffer needlessly in your service. You may await me inside the carriage so as to stay dry, and be comfortable. This Guard will see that you aren't hasseled, and he'll send a runner to see that you're fed. Should there be a bill for any of that, I expect one to be presented to ME upon my return. With a meaningful glance at the Private to ensure he understands his compliance is expected, Davish has a final note before setting off.

The servants of the Law are needed everywhere in our city Private, as you yourself no doubt know. Serve with honor and distinction, and this won't be the only post you ever know, but serve with decency as well.


Walking away from the carriage, Davish heads into the frothing mass of humanity and tents in front of him to see what there is to see, and hear what there is to hear.

[Fliggl]

Finally, the first stage goal is reached: Remiel has left the city behind.

He had left Glenndale several times since joining the circle, but never the city itself.

And although the stench was even stronger here - different, but stronger - Remiel felt much more comfortable here. Everything was burnt and run down, there was rubbish, debris, leftover food and excrement everywhere. But it was easier to bear than this noise and the artificial stench from the Eyes in the Sky and the cars.

Right, the absence of Eye in the Sky! Mercy was a lawless room! But this also meant that the ban on flying was lifted! Remiel immediately went down on his knees, jumped up and used the acceleration to rise into the air, transformed into a falcon.

He didn't fly too high - he didn't want to attract too much attention from inside the wall. He noticed that the inhabitants of the city were more likely to be locked in than the inhabitants of The Mercy locked out. At least that's what it seemed like.

He flew a loop, looked for signs of life and let out a single, loud call from the falcon. If a priestess of Fharlanghn is out here somewhere, she'll have heard it. Let's hope so.

[dantiesilva]

As the public official mentioned that offering him a coin for a moment of his time could be considered a bribe Einkil is caught off guard. He understood why the others were swiftly moving him along, but this man had a desk and had spoken to him so he had assumed he was the person you would ask your questions. "I am sorry, I assumed that because you are the first person to speak since I arrived in the tent and you had such a nice desk that you would be the person to answer any questions someone passing through would have. Deepest apologizes." he says to the man behind the desk.

"Yes I will be entering the Mercy." the dwarf says to the man, not wanting to get in anymore trouble for an odd rule he didn't know about. He will then follow or go where he is directed.

[RCgothic]

Laura walks with the beggars for a few blocks, taking in her surroundings. The red marks on doors she finds particularly intriguing, as they must have some meaning simply unknown to a newcomer to the district. The rain doesn't bother her at all, never once raising her hood against it, and by the time they reach the Bitter Coffee her hair and face are properly soaked, though the quality of her cape has kept the rest of her warm and dry.

"Not my sort of place then," she laments half to herself as the beggars warn her against violence. It hasn't escaped her notice that they haven't been quite as lucky in the waterproof clothing department though. "I'll keep your advice in mind. Thanks for showing me the way. Get yourselves something to warm up and get dry!" she instructs, generously giving each of those who accompanied her another tip.

Then she enters the Bitter Coffee.

[AlanBruce]

@Davish: The coachman is more than happy to seek shelter from the unending rain as he gets inside and you look down at the City Guard, informing him that your driver is to be fed on your account and letting the coach man know to wait right here for you.

The guard stands at attention as you mention the highest tenets of the Law, to serve with honor and distinction and...

My men are well aware of Honor and Distinction. Of duty to this City...

The soldier turns towards the tents and gulps as he remains perfectly rigid and a figure walks out to meet you, the rain plinking off his armor:

This man seems to command respect from the soldiers here, that much is clear, as he looks behind you at the carriage with the symbol of the Cudgel emblazoned on its side and then at you, squarely in the eye.

"What I was not aware of was that His Holiness would be sending someone to my jurisdiction. I am always notified of this in advance. I am Sergeant Andlas of the 65th Division. Who are you and why are you here?""



@Einkil: The man listens to you keep talking and does a gesture with his hand, much like an opening mouth suddenly shutting up.

"How bloody difficult was it to answer that question, huh? Have fun doing whatever it is you're doing in there. Good riddance."

The guards simply point towards a long tunnel and do not follow you as you can hear the short man complain about the damn weather and why he has to be here dealing with idiots and what not, but his voice and that of the soldiers is quickly drowned by the ever falling rain as your nose is invaded with the smell of garbage and waste as you exit the tunnel and become drenched again, squinting in the rain as you are greeted by gigantic old broken buildings.

Any semblance of a road is piled by more garbage and detritus. You can see some people further ahead in the rain, but no one to greet you or hand you a map to find your way around. They say this place used to be Halmathan's largest district, so where to begin?



@Remiel: The smell isn't exactly the best, but...

You flex your knees a bit and take a sprint through the dirty puddles of The Mercy as your sight is fixed on the grey skies above and your body suffers a radical transformation. Your body reduces in size and your hair turns to dark brown feathers as a beak stretches your face as your eyes become keener and before you know it, flight.

Druids and other practitioners of The Craft can fly in Glenndale, but with Connor's Eyes floating above, everyone is a bit weary to fly too high. Who knows what those things can do, especially when Connor was very specific that using Magic of any kind in the City would face swift consequences, or something along those lines...

But here? Connor cares not for this place. No surprise then, that many who use the Art fled here when the Magic Ban was instated in the City, druids included. But even as you flap your wings and get drenched by the rain and catch the air currents to swoop around, this place is gigantic. The rain doesn't make it easier to see too far, as you fly past several buildings and take a passing glance at figures inside, behind badly boarded windows and let out a screech. If Calliope Fareyes is nearby, she certainly must've heard it and been able to recognize you and...

It's a sudden cold that washes over you. Not the current weather, though. Something else that nearly causes you to plummet as a faint female's voice can be heard laughing amidst the drenched ruins of The Mercy, a distant echo just as quickly gone before you realize you're about to hit the ground and take flight again, shaking the rain off your feather head and then catch a somewhat familiar sight below:

What is that woman doing here?

This happened a year ago and some odd months. Before Connor was even a thing.

That hulking woman showed up one day at Glenndale, away from the park section open to the public and decided to train with a mean looking axe on the trees.

Needless to say, this did not bode well with the druids as a few showed up and stopped her by words first before showing her one of the old parchments that dictate that no trees are to be logged down.

Who knows what went on in her mind that she shoved the young acolyte onto the ground and things would've escalated further, had Claudia herself not intervened and calmed her before leading her out of the woods. You were watching this whole ordeal, of course. But not in the guise of a man, ready to pounce on her if she turned really violent.

Did she decide to move here? She seems to have a small posse with her as she walks into a semi clean building within this filth.


@Laura: Why are there red markings on these buildings?

Who knows. This place may belong to the City, but only in name. It's a completely different place now, with its own customs. And so, you reach the Bitter Coffee and hand the beggars another shiny silver piece, lamenting that violence isn't welcome here. You could use some violence. Wooden dummies only go so far. Not very reactive.

The beggars are long gone and disappear amidst the soaked streets as you turn the knob and the door creaks as you take in your surroundings.

A somewhat big place. Bunch of tables with the chairs propped on top as three young men wearing aprons mop the floor and turn their attention to you as your hulking frame enters the tavern and they cautiously lay their mops against the table and place their hands in their pockets, staring at each other before a cough can be heard at the end of the room, behind the bar and you raise an eyebrow at a gnome:

As ugly as winter and just as old, this gnome serves herself a drink on a mug and puts out her smoke on a wet plate.

"Easy, guys. I don't think she's here for trouble... you aren;t here for trouble, are you dearie?""

[dantiesilva]

As Einkil exits the tunnel he is reminded why no one comes here, if you didn't get mugged or murdered by those who called this place home, there was a good chance you could catch a disease. The place was filthy, and the smell was even worse then it looked if that was to be believed. A building could easily be repaired with the right amount of skill and magic, but that smell, ugh, he shudders as he finds a rag and covers his nose with it.

Hand on his hammer at all times to make sure it does not get stolen, the lone dwarf begins making his way around the first mile of the tunnel entrance, looking for landmarks and other signs he could use to guide him in this broken down labyrinth of buildings. He would be cordial with any he meet as to not pick a fight, however he would make sure he was not surrounded at any time either.

[RCgothic]

"I'm not looking for trouble," Laura replies. "Although I sometimes find it anyway," she admits honestly with a pained expression, hoping this isn't over-sharing.

"I'm only here because I'm looking for my friend, Clarity Clemens. I heard she might be at the Ludus Magnus Colloseum, or that Father Borazon might know where she is. And the guys who brought me here said Nana would know how to get to them. You are Nana, right? I'm Laura Wildstar."

"What's with all the red paint on the buildings round here by the way?" she asks.

[AlanBruce]

@Laura: The old gnome sips from her mug and beckons you to approach the bar and take a grab a stool as she listens to your tale.

"Laura Wildstar... never heard a name like that here before. You must be new. From the other side? Heh! Have things gone so down the toilet with that idiot that everyone is flocking here now? You're here to make coin? There's a few people I may know who would hire muscle like yours.

And yes, I am Nana Rose, proprietor of the Bitter Coffee. Last reputable and only standing shop in the entire Mercy since the Great Fire.

Oh! You're looking for Clarity? Of course I know her. Sweet girl, the Clemens child. She sometimes stops here to check on things. Make sure nobody's trying to raise trouble, but she's been absent for awhile. Last I heard, she was doing some clean up jobs alongside a local here, Lendra. Hard to find good honest folk on both sides of the wall, so I aid them as much as I can- with free food.

The Ludus Magnus is not a place I would recommend you go on your own, Laura. You seem pretty strong, but I heard that place has been overrun. Most likely the reason Clarity has been gone for awhile. Some new group. The... something something... ehhh. Hand. It has a name that ends with Hand. I don't know much about them. Gangs rise and fall here every day. Most are petty and not worth notice, but these must've gained Clarity's attention, since she mentioned she was going to 'deal with them'.

That was awhile back, though."

When you mention Borazon, Nana Rose puts down her mug and shakes her head.

"He's gone, Wildstar. And best leave it at that.""

On the mention of the red paint, Nana refills her mug and goes grim before downing the entire cup.

"Sick houses, child. The red paint means that there are sick inside. And if that's the case, stay away from those.""



@Einkil: If only you had an entire team of dwarven engineers.

It would take months. Maybe a year tops, but you could fix these buildings. Bring them back to their former glory or hell, even add some dwarven aesthetic to them. Would definitely improve the look.

But never the smell. This place is a city wide latrine! How could anyone live here? More reason to find your compatriots' remains and get out of The Mercy asap.

Hammer held firmly in one hand, shield in the other, you trudge through the dirt puddles as the rain keeps pattering on your head when you turn the corner of an alley and small bits of concrete trail down on your head as the building shakes, not unlike a small earthquake, a sensation quickly gone as your dwarven ears catch a conversation a few feet away, just right of the alley you were about to go into.


I...urghhhh! I'm sorry! We had to make a run for it! But we brought most of them intact! Please let me go!

Spoiler: The Checks

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Roll a Spot & Listen

[dantiesilva]

Never letting down his guard, Einkil makes very slow progress through the Mercy, trusting his ties to the earth to warn him of dangers before he can ever spot them. So when the small bits of concrete begin to slam into his helmet he curses in dwarven about people not walking on solid earth like they were meant to. Looking at the structure that just seemed to move as if a small earthquake hit it he tries to see if it was stable enough to stand next to or if he should immediately get clear of the building.

Spoiler: Stonecunning

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Using Search check to notice if their is new construction here or unsafe stone surfaces, shaky stone ceilings, and the like. (1d20+3)[8]

Listening to the conversation he speaks in Terran to his hammer, asking it to lend him its sense's momentarily as he tries to see how many people are in the ally he was about to turn into. With his back up against the wall, effectively hiding the bear cloak from view under the mountain like terrain of his armor he tries to listen to the conversation more, hoping he could have a clue of what was going on here.

Spoiler: Actions

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Move to use Earth Sense I can tell how many people are around me in a 20ft. radius, just not their exact location. Think less accurate sonar.

Listen Check (1d20+4)[12]

Spot Check (1d20+4)[14]

[jdizzlean]

Sergeant, I am Marshal Davish. I'm not here on orders from the High Inquisitor, I was engaged in another matter that has been settled. I'm here to inspect this site and the Mercy beyond in my capacity as an officer in the Service, not to unduly interfere with you or your men in any way. Pardon if my appearance has pulled you from your duties. A respectful bow follows this.

Perhaps a few short words, or if you have more pressing matters, you could point me in the direction of anyone who may be able to answer some cursory questions?

[Fliggl]

"What's Chopper doing here?" Since none of the druids knew the name of the madwoman with the axe who wanted to cut down their forest, they only called her Chopper when this incident was discussed.

Now she was here too. Why? What's she doing here?
The house where she disappeared caught his attention because it was in good condition compared to the rest of the houses here.

He sat down on a roof ridge and watched the entrance door for a little longer (depending on how busy it was, maybe an hour?). There wasn't as much going on as at the meeting place at midsummer, but occasionally people came and left the house. All safe and sound. It seemed to be a place from which there was no immediate danger.

Perhaps the best place to start his search.

He flew to the ground, changed back his appearance and entered the house.

[AlanBruce]

@Davish: Sergeant Andlas looks at the Cuthbertine carriage as you bow to him and the man raises an eyebrow.

"Marshal Davish, well met. I still fail to see why you are here, though. The City announced some time ago what transpired here:

An Olidammaran terrorist plot. A splinter faction from those assassins hides in The Mercy and attempted against the City of Power. His Holiness has already taken measures- the 65th division.

You want to ask questions? That would be me, marshal. However, unless you can produce a legal document that entitles you to such action, what transpires here is in a need to know basis. By decree of His Holiness. Of course, if you wish to venture into The Mercy itself, I cannot stop you in that regard. But be warned:

You will be going alone. The 65th Division has no jurisdiction beyond that wall."


@Remiel: Chopper Girl...

No trees for her to cut down in this wasted urban sprawl, so why move here? Still, that building looks cleaner than any other you have flown over and as you perch across the cracked wet street, the rain drenching your feathers, you keen your eyes and finally land in an alley nearby and shift back to your human form, walking inside.

The place is largely empty, except for a few bus boys mopping the floor and cleaning the tables. Chopper is at the far end of the tavern talking it up with a very old and most unattractive gnome wench, who raises her small hand and waves at you.

"Morning, young man! Have I seen you before? We'll be open in an hour still, but I might have some leftovers from the night prior, if you can spare the coppers, that is.""


@Laura: Nana has given you information.

Not a bunch of it, but enough to possibly find Clarity as she sheds some more grim news on what happens here and then the door opens and a curious figure comes in:

Never seen this guy before. And apparently, neither has Nana.


@Einkil: This damn place!

Not only does it smell, but it's crumbling down, given the small pieces of rubble that bonk off your helmet. However, given your acute stonemason senses, you can tell this building is stable. It's not going down anytime soon.

Now, you could turn back. Find another route in this city sized dump, but nooooo... let's take a listen and use your dwarf granted senses to see how many people are on the corner deep into the alley.

Your senses are good, but limited. That alley must be longer than a mere twenty feet, so it's impossible to know how many unless you poke your square head and take a look.

You can hear some words said, mostly that of the man from the beginning, followed by a woman's:

You have failed Her for the last time. Forgiveness... is a trait that lasts only so long. If it's any consolation, I am sorry. I really am...

It's a cry of sheer fear from the man as his cries seem to be heard farther and farther away, as if carried by the rain itself and then he's heard no more.

A sigh can be heard from the alley a few seconds later from the woman as she seems to walk further away from you when your senses pick up a presence... right behind you.

Your Hammer is quick to swing before a nimble figure dodges at the last second and the Galeb Duhr strikes the wall as the figure immediately places her hand on your bearded mouth and places her other hand on her own, using her index to do a silent shhh sound:

A human... and most unusually dressed. Her hand remains covering your mouth and she shakes her head slowly as she points at the alley, carefully removing her hand from your mouth, trusting you'll get the message.

[RCgothic]

Laura's face falls at the news about Borazon. "Oh. I'm sorry to hear that. My mentor Bhagazzin was quite fond of him I believe."

Laura wrings the water out of her hair in the doorway before crossing to take the proffered stool.

"Yes, I'm from the other side. Life under Connor is pretty stifling. I don't leave the compound of the Temple of Kord much these days... Too much chance of finding trouble. It's much less oppressive here! I'm not averse to earning some change, but for the moment I'm just looking for Clarity. She sent me a letter asking for my help but didn't say where."

Laura sighs. This is getting complicated quite fast. "Do you know where I might find Lendra? If Father Borazon is gone and it isn't a good idea to go to the colloseum alone..."

The door opens and Laura turns curiously to see who's there. Impressive!

"Would having him help?" she asks Nana aside.

[AlanBruce]

@Laura: Not that many leads to follow and the information given seems to lead to dead ends as Nana cleans her glass with an old dirty rag.

"Stifling is one way to put it, child. I still don't understand why the other big shots in Halmathan haven't put that cheating scumbag in his place. I am sure Bhagazzin would like nothing more than to punch that snake clear across the City. And he could too: that dwarf is a titan in disguise, I'm telling you. You seem to like trouble. Well, all you have to do is walk around here in a few hours or after sundown- trouble will come looking for you, guaranteed. These guys, I swear. They see a lone woman in the street and think they can thieve her coin. Then they come crying here:

Nana! That woman broke my arm!

The witch made me dance like some pansy with my buddy for hours!

I ended up giving my money to her??? HOW!?

Hey, if you're going to do a job, know your mark, you know what I'm saying? As for Lendra? Hmmm... she lives in an old farm house. Well, what passes for a farm house here. The soil is so polluted, it's a miracle anything would grow in the first place. It's a bit far from here and although you may not find her at the house, her mentor, Vargas certainly will be there. A retired soldier and somewhat of a hermit, but he won't be aggressive... provided he's sober. Guy drinks way too much. As for going alone? I don't advise it, Wildstar. You're seem strong, but there are some here who can surprise you unless you have proper back up.""

And speaking of that, the door opens and Nana greets the shaggy looking man, drenched from head to toe as she keeps waving and smiling, but addressing you.

"I know him as much as I know you, child."

[Fliggl]

Remiel raised his hand in greeting and as a sign that the gnome could stop waving, Remiel had noticed her.

He joined the two ladies. He was careful not to get too close to Laura to provoke her, but he kept the distance small enough that she would have problems if she suddenly wanted to pull her axe and attack him.

"Greetings and good morning! Thanks, I don't need anything. Except perhaps some information" he reached into his pocket, picked up a handful of coins and placed them on the counter in front of the gnome. This, he thinks, is the usual procedure for services like this.

"Calliope Fareyes, a servant of Fharlanghn, do you know her? Do you know where I can find her, or find someone else who might know?"

[RCgothic]

"I guess it's missing person's day today!" Laura jokes, smiling at the new arrival. She holds out her hand.

"I'm also here looking for someone, though I haven't heard of your girl before. Calliope Fareyes, was it? I'm looking for someone called Clarity Clemens. My name's Laura Wildstar. Perhaps we could help each other? Nana - this is Nana Rose by the way; this is her shop - says it isn't safe to go alone round here, and you look like you can handle yourself."

[AlanBruce]

@Remiel: The old gnome watches you spill a handful of coins on the table, a normal procedure for a place such as this after asking your questions.

The gnome smiles back and keeps waving like a fool at you.

“Greetings! Put that money back in your pocket right now. Unless you want to order something, throwing money on my counter without even saying your name and asking questions is rather rude, young man.”

The gnome’s smile wanes until you have retrieved your coin and then smiles again and gives you a wink.

“Just because I live here, doesn’t mean I’m going to slobber before money. Sometimes just asking politely is more than enough. Plus a name to go along with it, okay?

As for that name? Yes, I know Calliope. In fact, she slept in the cellar one night, right over there, below the tables. She was fresh out of the wall and seemed very lost. Eventually she met with a group of people both from here and beyond Halmathan. In fact, she attained somewhat of a status here.

She was one of the people involved in the defeat of the Cold Hammers, lead by Kurgen and later...”

Nana goes silent as she looks at the people working here for her and sighs deeply.

“.... she also helped during the House of Knowledge incident. After that, Calliope Fareyes decided to lend her expertise as a priestess and help any and all she could in The Mercy. For free. A noble soul for place many would say lack it.

But that was over a month ago. I haven’t seen her since. She did say she was a priestess of the Traveler, so maybe she simply finished her job here and kept walking? I sure hope that’s the case...”


@Laura: Nana chuckles a bit at your comment, attempting to hide a bit of sorrow.

“If I had a gold piece for everyone that’s gone missing... I’d still stay here. What, give my money to that crook beyond the wall? Pass!

I like you, Wildstar. Maybe this fresh soaked face here can give you a hand. If he made it here alone, who knows what the two of you can get done?”

[Fliggl]

"Oh, okay, I apologize." He quickly put his coins back in his pocket and apologized. It was a serious apology, he didn't mean to be rude. "I thought it was customary".

A little embarrassed he continued: "My name is Remiel. Calliope and I have a mutual friend who asked me to find her.
You have made me curious about this incident, please tell me more. And a tea, please."

[RCgothic]

Laura looks at Remiel, then down at her outstretched hand left hanging in mid air. After a moment's shocked indignation, she pantomimes the exchange she'd clearly been expecting.

"Why hello Laura! Delighted to make your acquaintance!"

"The pleasure is all mine! Hey, wanna go find those people we're missing?"

"A capital idea! Why, together the two of us are certain to crush whatever it is keeping our friends indisposed!"

"My thoughts exactly! Let's get started at once!"

She's still smiling, but it's become kinda fixed and insincere.

[dantiesilva]

Well at least if I am going to get mugged in this place I don't need to worry about the bloody building falling down on me. the gruff dwarven smith thinks to himself as he determines the building was stable enough, for now at least. I'm surprised these buildings are still standing though, must have rather solid bones holding them together to still be up after so long of not being tended to properly. he thinks to himself, impressed with whoever designed the buildings to have made something that would still be standing after all these years of neglect.

As he hears the second person's voice and what they were talking about Einkil immediately thinks Bloody thieves. Go on and get rid of yourselves, help clean this place up. as he hears the mans scream go further and further away. He is about to leave himself when he detects someone behind him, How the bloody... he begins to think as he swings out with his trusted friend Galeb Duhr only to watch the figure dodge the hammer nimbly. About to raise his shield and launch a bolt into her he turns to the last place he saw her when a hand covers his mouth. Getting ready to bite the figure for daring to do such a thing he stops himself short as she indicates to be quite. Raising a black bushy eyebrow at the figure who seems odd, even by human standards before nodding. With her hand removed he remains silent watching her carefully not sure what to make of this.

Spoiler: Sense Motives

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He's unsure if he should trust her, but given he just heard the person murdered in the alley he is willing to go with it for now (1d20+4)[14]