Chapter 4 - Back in Karkas

[itches]

Staring at the strange happenings around him, Nicos tries to get his tongue to work, to give voice to all the questions that are flooding his fuzz-filled mind.

At Shade's comment about retiring, Nicos give a weary nod, and slowly gets up and makes his way up towards his room.

[SponkleofInfini]

Laronar seeing the other retreating to their rooms, decides it would be to do so also. Although difficult to ignore the naked man still sprawled upon the floor now covered by a sheet, promptly brought out by Marie; Laronar does, Cadogan still on his mind.

Heading upstairs, head bowed, only sleep can help rid him of the plaguing thoughts of the day.

[Black Plauge]

As Shamus and Claire tend to their new guest, Blarth carefully gets up to his feet. Without taking his eyes off the newcomer, Blarth works his way around the room over to the stairs, staying as far away from the newcomer as possible. When he reaches the stairs, Blarth turns and practically runs up the stairs. When he reaches his room the sound of his door slamming can be heard resounding through out the inn.

People spontaneously disappearing and appearing, how could this day get any worse?

Fighting off nightmares, Blarth tries to get some sleep.

[Maeko]

At first taken by surprise by the self-possessed rogue's embrace, Maeko found herself returning it fiercely, allowing her gesture to express what she could not say.
She nodded at the other woman polite fiction that they will see each other in the morning, the nun had every intention of joining her sisters at dawn, as soon as the curfew was lifted.
With a last glance at Shade's disappearing back the nun retreated into her room.

[Megamieuwsel]

Eyes flutter and while mumbling some incoherent phrases like ;

"Cardogan?..... Thed?..... Elanor?.....Cadrius?.....Crito?...."

Bewildered , the freshly materialised Sorcerer stares around the room with eyes ,devoid of comprehension.
Shamus , once over the surprise , lets his deeply ingrained innkeeper-instincts run this buissness "on auto-pilot".

"Here , here , my good man. Easy on. Dunno where you came from , but sure as as those beerbarrels stand over there , I know where you are going: To bed. With a good grog for a nightcap."

As the portly barkeep helps Megamieuwsel up the stairs to a fresh room , Claire , needing only half a word from her spouse as usual , immediately ducks into the kitchen to make the suggested nightcap.
With a little extra....

Meanwhile , as Megamieuwsel drinks his grog and finally passes out , an occasional observer would've been able to hear:

"Hmmm.... Nearly forgot. Can't let him go without this one..."

A dimmed flash later a somwhat nervous whinning is heard.....

[Cadogan Trahem]

As the night passes, and the sunlight appears over the trade route through the forest in the east its rays lay down on the land like a blanket slowly climbing the walls of Karakas to shine into the streets the city is still all quiet. The curfew still enforce.

At the guard station, a few lone men stand about leaning on their spears heavily. One Yawns and steam appears out of his mouth which is hidden behind his beard.

The door opens and a man comes out, looking all important and impressive the men snap to attention. The man looks into the air, then down the street before finally at his men.

"Lift the curfew."
"Aye!" Replies one man before he and his friend move off down the street, gathering along the way a few roaming soldiers.

"Curfew has been lifted!" The words are shouted inbetween the tremedious THUMP sound of the man hitting his Shield and Sword together.
"Curfew has been lifted!" He cries once more.

"Oi! you! Shudd- Oh begging my pardon!" Says a man woken up by the racket now sticking, half dressed out his second story window.

"You better beg for my Pardon!" replies the soldier.
"So whas this den? Curfews gone eh?" The man asks.
"Yes, now get dressed before I arreast you for indecent exposure!"
"Al'ight! Al'ight!" The man says pulling his window closed.

THUMP! THUMP! "Curfew Has been Lifted! Any man who insults me gets arreasted!" THUMP THUMP "Curfew has been lifted!" The soldier continues down the street, one of many who scower the streets informing the town that it is no longer under curfew and can resume its duties. The matter of yesterdays explosion clearly well taken care of.

[Maeko]

Not many people were up and about so soon, and most of the traffic was composed of bleary-eyed travelers who had been forced to wait outside the gates, not citizens wanting to get out.
Even so, not many noticed a head-shaven woman in grey leaving as soon as the gates opened.
Only a young boy in the uniform of a cadet-guard whished her well on her journey.

[Black Plauge]

Sweat soaked sheets are wrapped tightly around Blarth as the cry from the guards awakes him. Struggling against their tight grip it takes a moment before Blarth is awake enough to realize what holds him. His night has been far from what most normal men would call restful, but Blarth has seen enough in his time to make him grateful for the rest he did receive.

Looking over at the unused bed, Blarth is saddened to realize that his brother's arrest was not part of the dreams banished with the morning. Using the pitcher and basin in the corner, Blarth washes away the physical evidence of his nightmares and prepares himself for breakfast.

Downstairs, Blarth finds Shamus directing the new boy to clean out the fire pit, and can here the sounds of cooking from the kitchen. All evidence of the previous day's occurances has been wiped away, leaving Blarth to wonder how much was a dream and how much was real.

Sitting down at a table near the bar, Blarth folds his hands infront of his face and stares off into space, ocassionally shaking his head. Only a hearty good morning from Shamus as he sets down a mug of breakfast beer disturbs Blarth's thoughts. Thanking Shamus for the mug, Blarth drinks slowly as he waits for breakfast.

[itches]

Rising half out of bed, Nicos opens blood shot eyes to the morning sun.

"Awww my head. It's too early for this"

With that, the bard colapses back on the bed, covers his head with a pillow, and returns to sleep.

[Gralhruk]

Light permeates the inevitable seams in the shutter that covers the window to her room; testimony of the start of a new day though the sun isn't quite risen yet. She stares at the dust motes highlighted in the almost light, noting the random fashion in which they float. Her bed is still made and though she lounges upon it - knees up, legs crossed - it seems unslept in. She is still in her attire from the night before and once again she holds a silver necklace in one hand.

It is rare that she is up with the sun but her mind has been too active to permit much sleep. Down the hall a door creaks and she senses rather than feels the light footsteps of a small woman as she makes her way down the stairs. Shade's eyes close and her knuckles whiten on the silver charm.

Goodbye, Maeko.

Choice. It was choice that made the nun leave and though Shade grieved her choosing she could accept her commitment even if she didn't understand her purpose. Choices that others had made were not so acceptable, for they threw away everything and gained nothing.

Shade had wanted to walk away, to leave this place and let it's memory fade forever. If she had gone when she wanted, she wouldn't have known where Cadrius had taken himself and she could have believed he'd left for different reasons. But she hadn't: finding Maeko had changed that and now Maeko was gone and Shade was here instead.

I shouldn't care what happens to him. He made his own choice, like Maeko, like Itches, like me.

I shouldn't care.

But I do.

[SponkleofInfini]

Laronar slept uneasilly that night, restlessly, his mind plagued by thoughts of concern for Cadogan. Although the sun had risen, the room remained quite dark, not as much the result of the drapes but the direction the window faced. Tossing and turning, Laronar cannot help but ponder;

Why take him, he was in good hands here

Rolling onto his right side

They're wizards, perhaps they know better

Rolling onto his back

They know better

Sitting up, hunched over the side of the bed, Laronar lumbers his way over to the window. Looking out at the town, a gentle breeze blowing into his face, Laronar smiles;

I shall see you soon...friend

[Black Plauge]

Breakfast arrives without any sign of the others stirring upstairs. Only the occasional sound of footsteps on loose floorboards betrays the fact that Blarth is not the only one up.

"You must be glad the curfew's over," Shamus comments to Blarth as he sets down a bowl of porridge sweetened with honey and apples.

"What?" replies Blarth, snapping out of his own private revaly.

"The curfew, its been ended, that means your brother's trial will take place today after all. Maren stopped by earlier to pass along the message. Its been rescheduled for later today. They are going to try the other man first, about noon time I think, seeing as he confessed and if he is convicted Trak is off the hook. The guards should be by in an hour or so to check and see if anyone wants to testify at the trials."

"Oh."

"Anyway, I just wanted to make sure you knew seeing as its your brother who is on trial," says Shamus as he takes Blarth's emptry mug back to the bar to refill it.

[Gralhruk]

The angle and intensity of the rays of sunlight stabbing through the chinks of the shutter have increased in the hours since Maeko's departure. Shade lies in the same spot on her bed, eyes closed, listening idly to the sounds of the inn as it comes to life. It was a day that she didn't want to begin because she had a feeling she knew how it was going to end.

Her eyes squeeze tight before opening, clear and grey in the morning light. Her face is open, a sadness visible over the tiredness. Her eyebrows draw downward as she sits up, swings her legs to the floor and stands. Already dressed, she buckles on her swords and the open look vanishes, replaced by the hard mask that served her purpose best. The day was here, whether she wanted it or not, and it was time to deal with it.

Her door opens with more force than is necessary and she feels the acid in her empty stomach turn to anger as she descends the stair. Blarth was already up and eating, the innkeep beside him. She takes a discreet table in a corner and signals the serving girl for a breakfast of her own. Food was necessary - she had neither slept nor eaten in too long and she would need her strength.

[SponkleofInfini]

Fully clad and geared up, Laronar makes his way down to the bar area of the Inn. Both Blarth and Shade, seated, attending to their own business. Laronar stares at Shade from beneath the cowl of his cloak, moving over to where Shade is seated, uninvitingly seats himself at her table.

"I am going in search of Cadogan, being one of his companions, I thought you would like to join me."

Almost like stone, Laronar sits waiting for Shade's reply. Laronar displaying a much darker side then what he has revealed to others thus far.

[Gralhruk]

She continues to stare straight ahead, chewing mechanically, as the elf stares then seats himself at her table. After a brief moment, he voices his question and waits for a reply. Shade's jaw continues to work for a few moments before she swallows, finally turning to look at Laronar.

"Maybe. I've got some unfinished business to take care of before I go anywhere."

[Cadrius]

Word quickly spreads through Karkas. A man has been found, caught, by the Temple of Heironeous and is responsible for the murders committed two days ago. Men talk of it as they work, pausing occasionally to breathe a sigh of relief. The mysterious and seemingly random killing frightened them. Women, some tending to children, some waiting tables, speak of it too. They are equally relieved.

Some speculate that this man was also the cause of the explosion that rocked the town the night before. Others blame minor thefts and petty vandalism on him.

And word spreads to one of the Inns of the town, where a half-orc, an elf, and a woman currently sit.

"They caught him, you say?" One man says to another at a nearby table.

The man nods to his companion and says, "I heard it took two Templar and half the Heiro's guard to bring him in. He's a big one, he is. Stands three hands taller than me and twice as broad. Probably has giant blood in him."

"You've seen him?" his companion asks, leaning in.

"Well, not so much seen, but I heard it from me brother." His companion is disheartened by this so the man quickly presses on, "Yep, trial's this afternoon. Heiro's want it done nice and quick."

"Good. Hope he gets the noose for this. Not right killing our boys like that."

They each nod sagely accepting the pronouncement, finish their meals, and leave. They have a trial to see and a murderer to jeer.

<OOC: The tale of Cadrius continues in Subchapter 4c - The Trials of Cadrius (http://www.online-roleplaying.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=1392)>

[itches]

Making his way down into the common room, Nicos is red-eyed, unkempt, and barefoot. Seeing the bard coming Shamus smiles and heads over to get a kettle.

Taking a seat at the bar and rests his head on the bar, until Shamus returns - and without a word - begins pouring what ever liquid was contained in the kettle into the mug.

Looking up, Nicos winces then takes a gulp of the drink.

"Blrrg," the bard grunts as he puts the mug down and pulls a face that would put a medusa to shame.

"Damnit Shamus, do you try and make your coffee worse every time?"

Saying nothing, Shamus merely grins and returns to his work. Taking another sip from the mug, Nicos pulls a face and surveys the room. Seeing two familiar faces he makes his way over to where Shade and Laronar. Making his way over there, Nicos takes a seat and greets them all.

"Morning all - assuming it is still morning. So what has been happening while I travelled the land of Nod?"

[Black Plauge]

Time passes slowly for Blarth. He eats mechanically, working his way through two bowls of porridge. The comments from those who stop by for breakfast barely seem to phase for those not watching closely. Those who do however, notice a distinct look of hurt in his eyes.

Even Nicos' joke, which Blarth can clear hear, barely registers on Blarth's face. A slight tug at one corner of his mouth is the only sign that portrays his amusement.

Having finished his breakfast, Blarth stares at the door, waiting for the guards to arrive.

[SponkleofInfini]

Laronar's eyes narrow upon Shade, hearing her comment.

What could possibly be more important

Overhearing a pair speaking of the trial of a man who was responsible for the murders the other night, realisation hitting Laronar in the face like a smith's hammer.

"Oh....so be it."

Nicos looking like death walking seats himself with the pair. Eyes bloodshot, breath smelling of carrion excrement...a smell only booze femented overnight with a side of coffee could achieve.

"We were discussing Cadogan, I will be heading out for him shortly, as for Shade...she has other business to attend to."

Says Laronar with a disdainful gaze.

[Megamieuwsel]

"Cardogan?"

Sounds from the top of the stairs , where a befuzzled , unkempt lean man ,wrapped in a blanket stares down with somewhat groggy eyes ; that was a pretty hefty grog he had last night.

"Did one of you say Cardogan Trahem , the blind mage? What's up with him? He's in trouble?"

Attempting to keep the blanket from entangling his legs , Megamieuwsel stumbles down the stairs.
To fail in the attempt at the last step , thus landing in the room the way he did last night : flat on his face.

Wrestling with the unwieldy piece of cloth , it takes the long guy the best deal of a minute to gain his footing again.

Finally , Shamus decides to move in and give him a hand , planting the "guy-out-of-nowhere" firmly on a chair as Claire puts a bowl of porridge in front of him.

"Eat first , then talk. I'll see , if I can find something to cover that frame of yours , but wouldn't it be nice if we'd at least know the name of the guy , that's , no doubt unintentionally , depleting our already not overly abundant resources? Hmmm?.."

That last remark managed to wake up the stranger completely and with a blush on his cheeks he speaks up:

"Oh! How impolite of me! I completely forgot! My sincerest apologies!
I'm Megamieuwsel , Magister Arcana Extra-Ordi..."

In a reflex , his hand reached for something that's supposed to be on his head , but isn't there. Grabbing nothing but air , he comes to a stuttering halt.

"But...but that was before the gods pulled that weird trick on me....
Now I'm just a lost and , worst of all ; unkempt freak , leeching off your goodness.
I lost everything in that blast , I don't know how long ago : My gear , my money , my fine clothes ...
But most of all : my best friend in all my travels : My mule , Patokkel..."

Now people tell many a strong tale about the numerous marvelous traits of mules , of which at least the one about their superb hearing is proven to be very true at this very moment:
Even though Megamieuwsel spoke softly , the last word was picked up by a pair of elongated ears , back in the stable.
All inside the inn-room can hear what follows:
A loud whinning , followed by a tremendous *CRACK!!* and the sound of hoofs , clattering on the pavement , nearing rapidly.

The Slender man jumps up immediately ,his face all brightened up

"PATOKKEL! He's still around! Gods be blessed! Now I can at least repay a bit of your kindness and make myself presentable."

As the unruly mule sticks its head through the window in an attempt to reach his master , Megamieuwsel ads a tad more somber:

"If only he could drop that habit of kicking out doors. I hope I can repay for that damage as well....."

[Black Plauge]

The rukus created by the unexpected arrival of the mule brings the two guards, who had been on their way to the inn, at a run. After establishing the cause of the noise one of the guards ruefully shakes his head while barely controling a smirk.

Jabbing his smirking companion with his elbow, the other guard addresses the common room, "The trials of the ones known as Cadrius and Trak, who, reportedly were staying here, will be held today at noon. Those wishing to testify are requested to accompany us to the Temple where their wish to testify and the bering of that testimony on the two cases will be registered."

Rising slowly from his seat, Blarth makes his way over to the guards and says, "I wish to testify on behalf of my brother."

Looking him over, the guard says, "Fine, I care not, I'm just here to bring you to the temple," turning to address the rest of the common room again, "Is there anyone else who wishes to testify?"

[itches]

Nicos leans back in his chair as the guardsmen come in and sips his coffee, waiting for the anyone else to speak up about testifing.

Glancing at Shade in particular, the bard awaits what she will do.

[SponkleofInfini]

Laronar also looks on intently, a decision which will tell him if he has a companion on his journey to find Cadogan.

I do not know what she could say in his defence...he has none. I have seen the bloody wake which he left that night, first hand. he does not deserve mercy for his crimes, or acquitance. No man, elf or dwarf deserves to die in such a bloody way.

Pondering, awaiting her reply to the guard.

[Gralhruk]

She can feel Laronar's eyes on her as they wait for her to announce an intent to testify. Her gaze is on Nicos, though, and her eyes are unreadable. She remains silent until the guard decides there is nobody left with any significant testimony to offer and leaves.

The truth was, if Cadrius had turned himself in he must have confessed. In which case, whatever she might say wouldn't do any good. She would gladly have lied to any guard that suspected him, but she couldn't save him from his own stupid tongue. Not at the trial, anyway. Even so, after a long moment she rises and heads for the door, leaving a few coins on the table.

"I want to see what passes for justice in the town I'm staying in."

[Black Plauge]

Seeing no one else offering to testify, the guards motion for Blarth to follow and head out the door. As they head down the street towards the temple, Blarth is sullen, hanging his head as he walks slowly, barely keeping up with the guards, who have to stop a couple of times trying to make Blarth move faster.

[Black Plauge]

The walk to the temple seems longer today than it was yesterday. That might have something to do with Blarth's mood this morning, or it might simply be a result of him not running the distance. When Blarth and the guards arrive at the temple they are suprised to find Trak being, quite uncerimoniously, shoved out the temple door.

"The One-Eye will steal your children in your sleep for that!" Trak shouts at the alcolytes closing the temple door.

Running up to his brother, Blarth asks, "Trak, what happened? Why did they let you go?"

"Damn bigoted humans, arrested me simply for being an orc. Come to find out some human commited the crimes and now they throw me out of town, even so," Trak replies, "Come on, I want to make sure this human who was cowardly enough to hide behind bigotry get what he deserves. I overheard one of the guards saying the trial would be in the town square. "

"But isn't that dangerous if they kicked you out of town?" Blarth asks.

"So we'll stop by the inn first and pick up my cloak," replies Trak, "with the hood up no one will recognize me. Let's go."

Leaving the confused guards, who had been staring at them bewildered during the conversation in orcish, Blarth and Trak head back towards the inn. After making a quick stop there, Trak leads the way towards the town square, where already a large crowd has begun to gather. Apparently the news of the trial has been spread amongst all the towns people. About half the town is already there and more are still pouring in. The elavated platform infront of the town hall has been set up with a few tables and chairs to resemble a courtroom. To the right a wagon makes its way through the crowds towards the platform, in the back, caged like an animal, is a man who sits dejectedly, ignoring the tuants from the people about him.

[Megamieuwsel]

The reunion between Megamieuwsel and Patokkel would've been a touching sight , if anyone would've bothered to watch.
The people around were too occupied with the issue , the guards brought to the inn , though.

"You silly mule! Will you ever learn not to kick out every door on first impulse? How am I supposed to pay for it this time?" could be heard in a somewhat muffled fashion as the mage hugs his longtime companion.

It's then , Megamieuwsel notices the saddlebags , on the mule's back ; could it be....?....

A quick check reveals , what he hoped for ; whoever put them here , made sure everything was where it was before.
Save for the clothes he wore , that is.....
However , his blue set of clothes managed to get "transported" into the bags and there it was : right on top of the purple set.

Pondering for a short moment , the man picked up the purple set , patted Patokkel on the neck with a "stay here , pal. I'll be right back" and stormed up to "his" chamber.

When he comes down to the common room , the guards are already gone.

"Dear sir Innkeeper : Due to the fortunate return of my possesions , I'll be able to repay you a little for the troubles I caused you. It's not much , but it's all I have. I hope it covers the expense of having your stable-door repaired as well. Patokkel seems to care very little about those."

Catching the purse tossed at him , Shamus quickly checked the contents ;
Strange guy...Doesn't have the slightest notion 'bout money it seems... Oh well , I'm not going to make him any wiser.
"Hrmmpfh.... Yeah... I think I can cover it for the major part , with some haggling , that is...
But now 'bout sumthin' different : You appear to know both this Cadrius-guy and that blind bloke Cardogan . The first is up for trial , and probably the noose , going by the rumours , the latter has been taken away by his fellow mages , right before you popped in last night.They were mentioning something 'bout a "secret Mages order" up in a hidden place in the mountains.
Or that's what I gathered from it..
I figured , you might want to know this."

The mentioning of the noose , got Megamieuwsel's full attention.

"The Noose? What's he done? Where is this sham of a trial? "

"Right out there , on the townsquare , fifth street on the right , than second one left. Need a ...."

But the mage is already storming away in the direction , Shamus pointed. Patokkel following suit , the sound of hoofs on cobblestones rapidly diminishing as the distance grows.

[itches]

Watching the Guardsmen troupe out, Nicos finishes off his coffee in silence. Making a face as he drains the last dregs of it, the bard then returns the mug to the bar and makes his way up to his room.

No need to go to the trial, I'll be able to find out what happens off someone else. Not like anything important will happen there.

Entering his room and locking the door, Nicos removes his tunic and moves to the basin of water. Cupping the water in his hand he wets his hair, then does a basic job of cleaning his face and torso. Standing up and puffing slightly from the coldwater, Nicos examines his reflection.

Satisfied with the job the bard, moves around the room, slowly dressing, and arming himself. Alternating between singing and humming Nicos clears his throght and warms up his voice.

[LonePaladin]

Blood and fire fill his vision; the stench of death and rot, and the cacophany of battle, assault his senses. All is chaos, unrelenting, unforgiving, uncaring.

He sees his brother, held in place with dark, constricting bonds of magic, crying out in pain as a shadow-cloaked figure twists a spear into his abdomen. He is helpess to respond, because he knows that any attempt at heroics would only lead to the same fate. Besides, he had already been forced into a similar pact.

Part of him knows that he is simply being practical, allowing the ritual to run to completion. Another part screams in anguish, proclaiming him a coward and a weak-willed fool. He doesn't cry out, however; the part that was Pavel was suppressed in the ritual that made him what he is.

The shadowy figure puts a great deal of ceremony into collecting the spilled blood of the bound man, storing it in a brass bowl. As the bowl fills, it begins to glow with an unearthly aura of evil. The figure begins to chant above the bowl, calling on forces beyond the realms of the material world, urging the powers there to grant his will into reality.

As he watches, smiling, from his place of honor, the collected blood rises from the bowl, dispersing into a cloud of red mist. The cloud hangs in the air menacingly; as the chanting reaches a crescendo, the cloud coalesces into a humanoid shape, taking definition and form. Finally, it forms the semblance of heavy armor plates, with elaborate protrusions and spikes; anything resembling a face is concealed by a great visor, on a bat-winged helm.

Though he's endured the same himself, he finds the ritual somewhat disturbing. The creation of a bloodwraith is never pretty, and always painful. He quickly suppresses a glimmer of pity for the victim.

Moving slowly at first, but with increasing speed and agility, it takes several steps around the chapel, knocking over candelabras and fonts along the way. It finally makes its way back to the center, facing the bound and helpless man. Close to death, the subject cannot raise his head to meet its gaze.

At a word from its summoner, the bloodwraith rushes forward, losing cohesion and turning back into a mobile mass of dark red fluid. It quickly surrounds the man, writhing and twisting to form itself back into the appearance of armor, and infusing itself into the body of the man in the process.

As it takes control of his body, the man screams his brother's name.

"PAVEL!"

In response, the bloodwraith once known as Pavel simply says, "Welcome home, Calabron. Brother."

[itches]

Looking at his gear, Nicos rearranges everything, putting it more securely into his pack

Ah life on the road, ready to go at any moment, never tied down. Sometimes I wonder what it would be like to stay in one place, settle down. Still I know that eventually the urge to roam would over come me.

Some people just don't fit the settled down life I guess.

Finished packing his gear, the bard moves downstairs to await everyone’s return.

[SponkleofInfini]

Laronar enters the Inn once again, looking quite despondent. Glancing over to Nicos who sits, as if waiting for something, his gear is by his seat, a look of eagerness is plastered upon his face.

Although Laronar cannot be certain as to what Nicos is waiting for, he assumes Nicos wishes to find Cadogan aswell. This thought lightens Laronar's spirit somewhat, smiling lightly at Nicos, Laronar returns to his room, gather his possessions, and returns to the common room of the Inn.

"Did you wish to come with me?"

[Black Plauge]

A solitary pair make their way through the deserted streets of Krakas. The noise of the riot fades behind them as they head away from the town square. One of the figures is hunched forward, his upper body bearing a more lupine than human form. The other lies in the first figure's arms, lifeless. As the pair make their way through the streets they are accompanied only by their shadows. Suddenly the one walking makes an abrupt turn and rudely kicks in the door to the Dragon's Hangover. It would seem the pair has reached their destination.

The door slams open, startleing the two figures inside, one sits at a table, his gear arrayed about him, the other stands near by, his pack on his back, ready to go.

Moving deliberitaly, Blarth makes his way over to one of the larger tables in the inn, where he lays Trak's body down. He then goes upstairs and procedes to gather up both his and his brother's belongings.

When he returns to the common room he carries a pack, clearly stuffed with a suit of armor, among other things. He also carries two bedrolls, one slung over his shoulder with a length of rope, the other under one arm, and two greatclubs, only one of which he came in with. Putting the pack down next to his brother's body, Blarth takes three wooden holy symbols from one of the pockets. Moving carefully, he ties one to his brother's head, covering his one good eye. Another he places around his brother's neck and the third he puts in his left hand. He then takes one of the clubs and speaking lowly places it in his brother's right hand, "You wish to act in this world through your club in my hands. Therefore let my club serve you in the next one."

He then removes a ring from his brother's left hand and places it on his own, "As the oldest male child, I now keep the family honor, may I do so with as much courage as you did brother."

Taking a packet of clerical vestments from the pack, Blarth then lays them on his brother's chest, "For when you meet the One-Eye."

Finally, Blarth carefully closes Trak's cloak and uses the scond bedroll that he was carrying to wrap the body in, binding it with a length of the rope over his shoulder.

Having finished the preperations for cremation, Blarth stands over the body of his brother, weeping.

[itches]

Opening his mouth to inquire as to Laronar meant by his cryptic comment, Nicos is interrupted by the sigh of Blarth carrying what looked to be an Orc-Corpse on his shoulder.

Standing and grabbing the elf with his arm, the bard draws him aside.

"What happened at the trial?"

[SponkleofInfini]

"Chaos...utter chaos....if you will come with me, we will be the only ones who will search for Cadogan."

Laronar's bows his head as he speaks, grimacing at every word that leaves his lips. The thought alone was quite uncomforting to him, and her complete disregard for Cadogan leaves Laronar angered beyond words.

She has chosen her road, let her walk it.....with him...

[itches]

Casting another glance then appraising Laronar's condition again, Nicos shuts his eyes.

"I'm going to assume that Cadirus tried to make a run for it, or the crowed tried to take him during the trial."

Opening his eyes and looking closely at the elf.

"Tell me, what happened to Shade?"

[SponkleofInfini]

"You could say both are correct, Cadrius and Shade have escaped, to where I know not."

Replies Laronar in much the same matter as before.

[itches]

Running a hand through his hair Nicos takes a look around the room, as if searching for an answer.

"Okay, I'm not about to let Shade get away so easily. I tell you what; I'm going to see if I can find her. If you are going in search for Cadogan we will no doubt meet again, as sooner or later I'll head down that trail too."

Picking up his sword and strapping it to his side, Nicos secures his pack on his back, then look at Laronar again.

"I wish you a good road and a safe journey. May we meet again in the not too distant future elf," the bard says, holding out his hand.

[SponkleofInfini]

Laronar feigns a smile as he shakes Nicos' hand, hiding a considerable rage under his somewhat cool exterior.

"I expected this to happen, well by the square, down an alley in the sewers was the last place I saw them both. You may want to begin your search there. You best go, the longer you delay the harder they will be to track."

Laronar withdraws his hand, placing his possessions upon his back...he accompanies Nicos out of the bar, then heads toward the townships exit...Laronar's search for Cadogan begins...alone.

I guess it was to much to expect them to help me...after all he is a skirt chaser and she is a criminal just like the other one.

[itches]

Making his way towards the trial, Nicos quickly encounters people in an exodus from the scene. Pulling one aside, he quickly gains a small description of the riot like conditions present there.

It seems the elf didn't overstate the matter. Still if he was correct about the alleyway and the sewers, I might not have to enter the mess at all

Making for a wide circle through the city, Nicos sticks mainly to backstreets; doing his best to remain undetected.

Approaching a junk filled alleyway, the bard struggles to lift a metal and corroded trap door while speaking out loud.

"If memory serves correct, there are 5 entrances to the sewers around here. I’m bound to find the correct one eventualy"

With that, he drops into the darkness.

[Cadrius]

Darkness envelopes the man as he moves through the sewers as swiftly and as quietly as he is able to. He hears Shade's reply to the elf and smiles to himself. He believes what he said was true; Shade very well could get killed because of his actions and his past, but it still feels nice to be wanted.

He comes to a split in the passage and looks from his left to his right. Eyes straining to use what little light is available, he stumbles over what feels to be a twisted lump of metal. Cadrius looks back at the slim form of Shade and shrugs once before turning to his left and moving again.

This happens several more times, at each passage Cadrius blindly chooses a direction and follows it, hoping that they don't become lost and end up by the mob again.

Yet his heart lifts somewhat as he comes beneath a sewer grate just beyond a corner in the sewer. Light and dust filter in from above and he takes a step toward it. However a noise from above quickly causes him to stop. He pauses for a moment, listening, before quickly backpeddling.

"Someone's coming down," he whispers urgently as he ducks back around the corner.

He balls his fists and tenses his entire body, ready to assault the templar or town guard that is likely looking for him.

[Gralhruk]

She moves silently forward as Laronar's steps fade and Cadrius' grow louder. The grates were few enough that they spent a good deal of time fumbling around in the dark, silent except for the occaisional clatter and quiet curse as they stumble over some unknown object in the dark. The smell was heavy and penetrating, and Shade breathes through her mouth, wishing her nose would deaden.

Despite the surroundings, she finds her heart lighter than it has been. Leaving this town was seemed a magical elixir near strong enough to cure her dark mood. For the moment, she lets the warrior lead, keeping silent even when she disagrees with his choice of direction. He'd been through alot, and he didn't need her second guessing him. Sooner or later they'd find a way out.

"Someone's coming down"

His harsh whisper sends a jolt of adrenalaine through her and her hands find the hilts of her blades instantly.

Has the elf betrayed us?

[Black Plauge]

The elf and the bard have long since left by the time Blarth dries his eyes. Looking about he finds the inn deserted, no one left to settle the bill. Gathering up Trak's coin pouch from beside the body, Blarth hefts it in his hand a moment before deciding it should be enough. Leaving it on the bar, Blarth picks up the backpack and his brother's body and makes his way out the door.

Outside the bar, Blarth is unsure which way to go. He stands looking up and down the street for a bit before settleing on a direction. He makes his way through the streets towards the western gate, the same one he and Trak had used to enter Krakas just barely a week ago.

[itches]

Dropping to the floor of the sewer tunnel, Nicos tried desperately to not think about what he might of landed in.

"The things I do for a pretty face"

Dragging out a coin the bard holds it above his head and sings a few lings on a bright cheery song. Suddenly bursts into light, as if it were a burning torch.

"Now if I were a shadowy - yet alluring woman - with an escaped convict in tow, where would I be?"

Picking a direction at random, Nicos walks off to explore his immediate surroundings.

[Gralhruk]

"In serious trouble."

Shade steps out from behind a buttress that hardly looks large enough to have hidden her and assesses the bard critically. Despite her annoyance at having been found, she is grateful that it is Nicos, not the least because he may be able to help them get out of here. Reflected light dances along the honed edges of her blades, not yet lowered. Her veil is up, so that only her grey eyes are visible.

Shadowy but alluring, is it? Don't get any ideas singer.

She waits until the smirk on his face fades and he seems to have at least a little doubt of her intent before she lets her guard drop slightly. Her eyes look more weary than angry now, and she knows they could use the help.

"Are you sure you want to be here?"

[Cadrius]

Cadrius bites his lower lip as Shade reveals her position. His fists remain balled, his body is still ready for violence, but he's also very weary. The lack of sleep coupled with the trial and the ensuing brawl has left him running on his last reserves of energy. So he is not ungrateful that Shade knows this man.

In the near darkness the figure is difficult to make out. The voice seems vaguely familiar, but Cadrius isn't sure if his mind is reliable in its current state of exhaustion. Still he lowers his fists, they remain clenched, but are at least lowered.

"Indeed. We likely do not have much time to spare."

And what kind man would willingly drop into the sewer? the question plagues him. She does appear to know him, but what could have lead him down here? The elf. Who else has he told?

His face is pulled into a frown. Cadrius is eager to collect his possessions and leave this town while he still can.

[itches]

"This is a curious tale indeed. Two people running around in a sewer while a practical riot takes place in the streets above."

Looking around to see if there was anyone else near by, and finding none, Nicos continues.

"Hold a moment, and answer my question. You loos nothing by waiting a short while, and may gain something from it."

Turning his attention to Cadirus.

"Last I heard you had turned your self in for the death of Cleatus and the others. Quickly, what happened to make you flee now?"

[Gralhruk]

Cadrius opens his mouth to speak but Shade beats him to it. Her reply is quick and curt.

"Better to be down here than in the middle of a riot up there, especially when you're a fugitive. The trial was a sham and nobody wants to die for the wrong reason. Or any reason, for that matter."

She hopes it's enough to keep the one armed bard quiet. In her mind, it's best that Cadrius doesn't have any time to think about what he's doing down here. In an effort to divert the discussion, she shoots a question back at him.

"What are you doing down here anyway?"

[Cadrius]

There is a click as Cadrius jaw snaps shut. Her answer is better than his own. To be honest, he still isn't certain as to what changed. Yes, the trial was unjust and Kulper corrupt, but Cadrius still feels a need for penance. He hopes he can do it elsewhere.

Looking between the dim forms of Shade and the one-armed bard Cadrius feels restless. He wants to be gone; from the sewers, from the town, from his conscience, from everything. But even if he manages to flee he will have escaped his obligations. Shade has placed her own life at risk to travel with him, and there's also the matter of Cadogan. Cadrius did not kill three men in order to restore the mage's honor only to have him die somewhere else.

There is a light metallic thud as the fallen paladin drums his fingers along a nearby pipe.

"Quickly now," he says, trying to mask his irritation at being delayed, "we might have a moment to spare, but not much longer. What are we to gain from you?"

[itches]

Looking at the pair for a long moment, Nicos gives a small nod, seemingly coming to a decision and acting decisively.

"To answer your questions quickly, the elf mentioned you were in the sewers before he left in search of Cadogan. As to the aid I can provide -"

Stoping for a moment to flip the glowing coin, a cock-sure grin returning to his face

"-I tend to find ways to make myself useful. Plus I sing a mean ballad."

Taking in Cadirus's unarmed stake, the bard removes the dagger from his side and holds it out without comment - handle first.

"Where exactly were you headed, before I dropped in? Where-ever it is, I hope one of you know your way through this underground maze, otherwise you'll end up well and truly lost."

[Gralhruk]

Her look of consternation iss mostly hidden by her veil, but the corners of her eyes tighten. Truthfully, neither of them knew which way they were going. Shade had assumed the garrolous bard would know the underground geography of the town and she is doubly glad to hear him admit as much.

"We want to get out of town, but first we need to pick something up from the armorer. Some supplies would be helpful, too, but we can make do without. I've packed quite a bit but my friend here didn't have the luxury to plan ahead."

She pauses, watching the bard's face carefully. He gave nothing away; that little smile stayed on his face and she couldn't read his eyes.

"We're not coming back."

[Cadrius]

Cadrius levels his gaze at the bard and his bizarre offer. He draws in one breath and exhales loudly causing a faint echo.

"Are you serious? You came down into the sewer, risked being seen consorting with a criminal simply because you want to come along?" He asks, more than a little puzzled. The dagger remains extended hilt first toward him. He looks down at it for a moment and sighs again.

"Well?" he asks, turning to Shade, "You know him better than I. Can we trust him?" Cadrius seems unconcerned at the man's prescence. The longer they debate the harder it will be to flee.

[Gralhruk]

Shade frowns invisibly behind her veil, one hand reaching up to touch the scar hidden behind it.

"I'm not the best judge of character but he saved Maeko's life and helped me when I needed some help. Yes, I trust him."

As far as I can trust someone I don't really know.

[Cadrius]

Cadrius cocks his head to the side and looks at Shade for a moment before asking, "No?"

Turning back to the man, Cadrius reaches out and takes the offered dagger. Wrapping one large hand around it, he tests its weight. He'd prefer a sword, but the small blade would do in a pinch.

One certainly worked well enough before.

"I suppose you know these sewers, bard?" He asks, gesturing to the catacomb, "And if we allow you to come, you will guide us on the swiftest route to the blacksmith?"

He levels his gaze at the man and considers him one more time. There's something out of place about him, something's not right. He must have an alterior motive, he can't simply want to come along because of the adventure. While some of the bards Cadrius has met are fools, none saw much glory in trapsing about in filth.

"Very well. Shade says I can trust you. Do you have a name, or shall I simply call you bard?"

Nodding once at the response Cadrius says, "Lead on Nicos, we have some work yet before we are free."

[itches]

Standing there with a smile stuck on his face, and eyes widening to the point where it would be credible to question his sanity, Nicos watches as the duo debate over wether to allow him to accompany them.

These two positively extrude the smell of a tale, an opportunity such as this happens only once in a bards life - if he is lucky

Once it is decided, Nicos turns and leads them off into the dank and pungent catacombs of the city’s underground.

"I won't lead you astray, I am not the most knowledgeable person about the city’s underground. I've been down here more then most people, but the majority of my knowledge comes from tales told by my father."

The journey is conducted in silence, none of the travellers seeming willing to partake in unnecessary conversation Indeed there is little or no need for it, as the next several minutes are uneventful. Twice they had to double back when they came upon dead ends, cave-ins that looked fresh.

Cursing softly at the second dead-end, the bard moves on to a fork on the tunnels, stopping and peering down each of them before confronting the pair following him.

"Those cave-ins we encountered are fresh. Probably from the ground-shakes we experienced the other day. The problem now is this. There are two ways to get where you are heading."

Gesturing down the left tunnel

"This is the quickest way. The problem is that is will take us though a rats nest. mean rats."

Motioning the right tunnel

"This one is safer, but the problem is that it takes three times as long. By the time we get to where we are heading, and attempt to leave again the guard will have likely closed the gates."

Pausing and taking a good look at the pair.

"The only other exit out of this place that I know of is a 40 foot drop off the cliff. People have survived it before, but not many."

[Cadrius]

"The answer is simple," Cadrius says, looking at Shade for confirmation, "we take the shorter route and hope we do not run into any of these...'mean' rats. I do not fancy leaping forty feet to my death."

He is, however, nervous. Time is running out, he's unarmored and relatively unarmed. With any luck the bard is merely spinning another local legend about the ferocity of the rats beneath the city's surface. Still, his grip tightens slightly on the blade and he is more careful as they advance through the sewers.

[Gralhruk]

"Rats it is."

She eyes the dagger Cadrius is weighing uncertainly and then reaches behind her back and unhooks the scabbard of a short sword. She looks questioningly at him before handing it over.

"Sorry, I forgot you were unarmed. This ought to feel a little better in your hand."

[Cadrius]

He nods once, hefting the short blade and feeling its weight. He can use it, all squires trained under Heironeous receive rigorous martial instruction and as a result there are few weapons he is not capable of wielding. "A knight must be deadly with any weapon at any time," his armsmaster used to say. Unfortunately, he always favored the larger blades. Still, this would have to suffice and it certainly feels better in his hand than the dagger.

Not a bad sword, he thinks, but still small.

Keeping the blade in his hand, he peers down the dark tunnel. He can make it out faintly from the strands of daylight filtering through the grates, yet they would likely need a torch by the time they were through. Shade must have one, he thinks, she is always prepared. "Be prepared," his armsmaster's voice echoes again in his head, "a warrior of Heironeous must always be prepared."

"Lead on, bard," Cadrius says, pointing the sword at the darkness.