Fernwood Fluff

Tenebrae - Tuesday, January 14, 2014, 5:44 PM

-=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=-<* A07: Fernwood Pub *>--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=-

The common room of the Fernwood Pub dominates the inn, spacious and airy because of the high, vaulted ceiling. Ornately carved beams of dark, polished wood form a lattice overhead, supporting the arched roof two storeys above the floor. To the right of the double-door entry is a spiral staircase, winding upwards to a balcony that rings and overlooks the main area. Large windows at this level grant an excellent view of the river to the west and colorful market stalls to the north and east. An air of coziness is salvaged by keeping the pub dimly lit; parchment-shrouded mana lanterns hang at intervals from the base of the balcony, nestled amongst lush, magically propagated ivy and ferns that grow over this false demi-ceiling and the struts that support it.

The bar is sleek and simple, comprised of meticulously polished black lacquer. Tables are set under the darker niches formed by the balcony floor as well as on the balcony itself. A few are deliberately sized to accommodate halflings and gnomes, but the majority are meant for human-sized individuals. A large common table is on the main floor, set before a semi-circular stage situated against the western wall. Beside it, with pipes mounted upon the wall and running up past the balcony and almost to the ceiling, is a refurbished pipe organ made to look like the one lost when the Fernwood was destroyed during the Merkabah Siege.

Warmth, that is what the Fernwood promises today. Warmth of the air, warmth of company, warmth of food. That is what Rhodes has come down from the temple to enjoy right now. The weather and gloom has driven him down to enjoy a bit of life and entertainment even in the midst of winter. The halfelf finds himself a table and a bench in the pub and orders food and drink.

Corra makes her way into the pub, singing softly to herself. It is something that she is often doing for those that have seen her about. Rarely is there not a song easy upon her lips. Her chain shirt shimmers a bit as she glances around, and slips the staff of her bow from her back and then smiles a little. She breathes in deeply and smiles. Always good to enjoy the atmosphere of a pub.

"Aliright. I'll have it delivered in the morning, or send word if there's any troubles. I don't expect any, but just in case." Riseing from a corner booth, Mikilos shakes hands with the merchant there, the pair shakeing hands over whatever deal has been struck before heading their seperate ways. Specifically, the merchant heads for the door, and the elf heads for the bar proper.

Rhodes looks about as people move as he waits for his order to be delievered. He spies the bard as she makes her way in, even catches wind of her singing, though Mikilos is so far deemed just another patron. His table is currently empty except for him.

Corra smiles and does give a bit of a bow by way of hello and greeting. She smiles, "Hello and good day." she says mostly addressing anyone who wishes to respond. She seems in a Jovial mood.

Mikilos seems in a good mood himself. Or maybe just hungry. Either way, he's ordering steak. Though not taking a seat, he pauses at the bar to take a look around, returning a smile and nod to Corra. "And a good day to you. May I inquire as to what you are up to this eve?"

Rhodes gives a nod in return to Corra, with a smile. "Good evening. Might we be able to convince a song this evening?" He is in desperate need of some livlier music than the dirges and chants he's been hearing up at the temple.

Corra smiles and then nods,"I am well enough this evening." she says and then looks over at Rhodes,"Oh I think I might be able to be convinced, with something proper to wet my throat after, what is one in the mood for, something lively, rousing, something of a tale, or just a drinking song?"

Mikilos grins, and nods to Rhodes, motioning to a seat with a quirk of his brow. A silent 'may I join your table?' To Corra "Mayhaps a rouseing, lively tale of a drinking song?"

Rhodes gives a returning not to Mikilos and waves a hand to indicate he may join him. His food and drink arrives at this time as he laughs at the elf's suggestion. "That would be a rather interesting song if one happens to exist. Does it exist lady minstrel?"

Corra laughs a bit and then moves over to the table and leans her bowstaff down against it. As she moves over towards the fire. "I think I might be come up with something." she says and then takes a deep breath and lifts her voice in song and whether it was a song that already existed or something she is making up, it fits the profile.

GAME: Corra rolls perform/sing: (7)+9: 16

Mikilos takes a seat, his own order yet being prepared, and looks to the minstrel, listening. Idly as an aside, he mentions to Rhodes "Of course such songs exist. Can think of several myself. Rousing and jovial go well together, and many songs are tales. And any song is a drinking song if you drink to it. The ability to sing them with any skill, however..."

Cesran has arrived.

Rhodes sits at a table with Mikilos while Corra is giving a rousing song to those in the pub who have come for warmth in many different ways. He smiles at Mikilos at the various songs that one can sing, but focuses more on the performance at hand. When done, he gives his applause and waves to one of the servers. "Whatever the lady wants, and I shall pay."

Cesran comes in and quickly shuts the door behind him to ward off the cold. He brrs as he shakes off his cloak and he moves over towards the bar. He has his staff in hand and just as he goes to open his mouth his staff pipes up, "A bowl of stew and biscuits." Cesran looks at his staff as the crystal dragon head smiles, "It's what you always get." Cesran sits himself down, "Well maybe I didn't want that today today." The staff replies, "But you did." Cesran hmphs softly, "And a Green hornet." The staff continues.

Corra smiles as she finishes singing, "The first of many I shall hope, lighten moods and enjoy the evening." she says and shakes her head a bit. She glances around for a moment and then decides to sing another after she orders herself an ale. This one is a bawdy tavern song, the kind sung in pubs favored by sailors and would make any decent girl blush, of course Corra pulls it off with a wink and a smile.

Mikilos grins, a smile that only widens at the fresh song, and perhaps slightly moreso at the arrival of the fellow wizard (smiles can only get so wide before the face is damaged.) "Salutations Cesran, and Staffy. How are you two today?"

Rhodes laughs at the new song performed by Corra, feeling the warmth of life about him. He spies the man that Mikilos talks to and gives a nod in return. "Greetings," he offers. "Though I suppose I should be a proper gentleman and introduce myself. I'm Rhodes, of Verdama's temple."

Corra smiles as she finishes the new song and settles down into her seat and chuckles just a little, "I am Corra, scout and singer." she says and shakes her head a bit.

Cesran looks over at Mikilos, "Greetings Mikilos...she has a name now, she's very touchy about it too." The staff preens, "Translated for those that don't know Draconic or have horrible accents like Cesran. It's Magnificent Beauty of the Radiant Sun." Cesran rolls his eyes a little bit, "I thought we agreed on a short version derived from your Draconic name." The staff sighs deeply, "Fine it's Ral-sara." Cesran smiles, "And a beautiful name it is." He nods to Corra and Rhodes, "It is nice to meet you both." He looks to Rhodes, "Have you meet Kerbasy yet? He is also a follower of Vardama and a very good friend. He recently helped me get over a curse." The staff chimes in, "I told you that we shouldn't have bought anything from a dead man, it's bad luck."

"Mikilos Mithralla, Builder Arcane." The wizard offers his own introduction, just in case. "Ral-sara, quite nice. And rolls off the tongue a bit easier than the full version, in either language. As for the purchase of a dead mans things, as I understand the tale, this particular case was something of an exception to the general way such things go. Has anyone heard more about the ties to Deimos?"

"Kerbasy..." Rhodes frowns a bit, and shakes his head. "I have heard of him but not the pleasure to meet him properly. It's been unfortunately rather busy up at the temple lately." He looks over to the staff and smiles. "A pleasure Ral-sara as well. Oh? A dead man... oh that auction I've heard about that, nasty business." The half-elf nods to Mikilos as he mentions the cult. "Nasty business."

Cesran gets his meal and he starts to eat. "Well thank you, although I prefer the full Draconic version. Cesran convinced me that Ral-sara was an elegant compromise for those that can't easily speak Draconic." Cesran nods, "Yes it seems that each of those that bought something have been afflicted by some sort of problem. Some had painful noises in their ears that only they could hear. Myself I couldn't sleep."

Mikilos mmms softly. "Doesn't sound so bad a curse, but I suppose is a distinct difference between 'couldn't' and 'didn't'." Of course, is somewhat different, being an elf. And even then, Mikilos is somewhat known for keeping odd hours. Frowning thoughtfully, he glances to Rhodes. "Seems have been quite a few servants of the Grey Lady arriving in the city of late. Just happenstance, or there some sort of recruitment driving going on? Though quite understand the Temple can use the extra hands."

Rhodes shrugs a bit about the others of the Grey Lady. "Perhaps outside the city, I do not know. I have served her here in Alexandria most of my adult life. But you are right, there are a good number who have come. It may be good, it may be a bad sign. Who knows but the gods and goddesses."

Cesran looks to Mikilos, "Still you need 8 hours of rest and in my cast that is sleep. I had to be very careful about the spells I used as I could not readily replenish them and being awake for so long affected my health and mental capabilities. It's hard to think about anything else when your tired all the time."

Mikilos mmms, nodding. "Rest and sleep aren't always the same thing, but yes, I quite understand. Is important to take a mental breather, even if don't enter the dream realm. Anycase, myself, quite looking foreward to the spring. Not only be nice to get out of this chill weather, but finally have some space of my own to do a bit of gardening. Been years since really tried my hand at that."

Rhodes cringes at hearing about Cesran and his lack of sleep. "I am glad that you got it sorted out. Having to deal with something as a caster is rather difficult when you need to rest your mind in any sort of way. But you and the others afflicted have had the curse remedied by the sound of it."

Cesran nods, "Yes I had Kerbasy free me from the cursed object. It was a quill that had an unending supply of ink. Too good to be true. I should have known better." He nods, "As am I. I hate when it gets cold like this. Almost makes me want to head back to the Jade Islands for the season."

Mikilos mmms. "Not so uncommon an item, I've seen similar before. I think. Didn't have a chance to examine the details. Anyway, I like it here in Alexandria, but winter isn't exactly my favored season."

Rhodes smiles at the two of them. "I grew up in the city, more than use to the winters here, though that blizzard was sure something feirce, those don't happen all the time." He looks at Cesran, "A quill with unending supply of ink, curious. Does it still work after the curse was removed?"

Cesran nods, "True, but one that is cursed is rare. I have it at my lab under protection so it does not affect me. I'd rather have it and not use it then to let someone else suffer." He smiles, "The curse was removed from me it's not that easy to remove a curse from an item."

Mikilos frowns thoughtfully, but vaugely at Rhodes. "I've experienced a fair share of local winters. Don't care for them any more for the memories. Anycase, have you found the root source of the curse? Is it something laid into the build of the quill, or an effect placed upon later?"

Rhodes gives a light shrug to Mikilos. "Winter is just part of the cycle of the year, as death is the cycle of life." But he turns his attention to Cesran in turn to hear more of this cursed item. He doesn't add to the questions at this point, curious as to what he has in response to the other's line.

Cesran nods, "In this part of the world yes it is, but where I am from it's nice and warm for most of the year. We do have a rainy season where it gets well rainy, but nothing like this." He hmms, "I haven't studied it that much. I have been trying to catch up on my sleep and building magical items."

Mikilos nods to Rhodes with a frown. "Tried the 'winter' part of the cycle. Didn't care for it much. Think I'll put off doing it again for a few centuries." Mikilos' death on the docks, while brief, is a bit of a tale. One the wizard prefers to avoid, despite it's habit of following him. He nods to Cesran. "Between my shoppe and some personal crafting, have been rather occupied myself. But think things have settled down for the moment at least. Sure something or another will pop up soon enough, there always seems to be something going on."

"There have been those bandits," Rhodes offers as 'something going on'. "Attacking, and leaving those weird half coins. And it seems the dragon and the rider are back, at least according to those who have sighted them."

Mikilos mmms. "Not so sure the Knight ever left, just hunkered down for a time. Have heard a little something of the half-coins, and that does interest me. Sadly, can't say as are any real leads to follow. Are plenty of mention of half-coins in the histories, a few as calling cards, but nothing that quite fits this sepcific case. Need more information before research will be of any real use."

Cesran nods, "Hopefully I will be able to study it later." He hmms as he listens, "Sounds like Dragonieri. You said that someone has been leaving them around the city? Sounds like something is a foot."

Rhodes nods to Cesran, "I understand it's been Dragonieri coins too. I haven't done much research myself, but I was on one of those trips to try and lure them out. Found ice trolls instead, and they seemed to have been promised money for our heads."

Mikilos nods. "Information is sketchy at best, but seems someone is organizing harassment along the local roads. Who and for what purpose remains guesswork. The Dragonieri tie might be a lead, or a bit of misdirection. Such coins aren't exactly impossible to come by, and not so hard to snip one in two."

Cesran nods, "Well if I can be of any assistance please let me know. I haven't had to face bandits in quite a while, might be a nice change of pace from facing some face eating monster or artifice madman."

Rhodes smiles a bit at the creatures that Cesran mentions and nods, "Indeed, the coins could be a misdirection. This whole thing smells of it and perhaps only the wisest will be able to peer through the deceit these people have conceived of. Though perhaps we will find the trick and bring them down."

Mikilos smiles mildly at Cesran. "Now now, don't be racist. Face eating monsters and mad artificers can be bandits as well."

Cesran nods, "It could be, but if I had one of those coins I could use a scrying spell or perhaps a greater scrying spell and see if we can not find out what is going on." He smiles at Mikilos, "True enough."

Rhodes nods, "That would be a smart thing to try. Not sure if anyone has any of these coins other than the authorities though."

Mikilos nods to Cesran. "When I heard of the second half-coin to be left, I offered to examine it. I havn't heard back. Either they've their own sources to try, or the buracracy is back up too much to get anything done. Sadly, I wouldn't place bets on which."

Cesran nods, "Perhaps not. Still it never hurts to ask. Although perhaps we shall manage to find one. Please Rhodes if you do find one take it to one of us."

Rhodes gives a nod in response to this. "Indeed I shall, and tell anyone I hear may have one of these coins in their posssession."

Mikilos sighs. "Bandits on the roads, a wannabe demi-god ruleing Dragonieri... suppose the war in Myrr is still on, though havn't heard much of it. Likely stalled with the winter. Gustav may be in for change, though that's likely just rumor. Not sure how many of the artifacts from the Ritual of the Blue Bitch still need returned to their proper places... likely more things to make life intresting, but those top my list. And taht list doesn't even include my personal interests."

Cesran nods, "No one likes to to fight in the winter time. I myself would rather just sit around reading and studying all day." He hmms, "True and with the attack the city could be vulnerable to other attacks. We have to stay strong and vigilant."

"Someone might think we're just resting on our laurels," Rhodes smirks a bit. "But there is much in the world, and most likely the actions of a simple Guild of Explorer's in one city isn't going to change the whole of the world. But we can at least make sure our little corner of it is safe, right?"

Mikilos smirks faintly at Cesran. "Somehow, think you'd enjoy sitting and studying in the summer as well." The elf certainly would. Frowning faintly, he looks to Rhodes. "I'm not so sure. Alexandros is a balence point for a great many things. What happens here effects more than just the local lands. Certainly the rest of the world would carry on without us. Did, in the Time of Mists. But are few lands who course has not been affected by the Adventurers of Alexandria."

Cesran smiles at Mikilos, "I would, but it's easier to adventure in the summer then the winter. Fortunately I always prepare an endure element spell incase it gets too cold or too hot. It comes in very handy comfort wise."

Rhodes nods, "Very true, very true. Could say we're the vanguard of many things while here. But that is the question about the city. Is she blessed or is she cursed? Or is she both to be at the center of so many things?"

Mikilos nods to Rhodes. "Bit of both, I think. Excitement comes to Alexandros. What comes of it is up to those who live here, be it by birth or choice." He grins, and nods to Cesran. "Quite the handy spell indeed, though I tend to favor a good cloak. Or a glass of fruit juice, come summer."

Cesran nods, "I have a thick cloak and still the cold seeps in. I was glad to have it when that sudden snowstorm hit after the winter orb was destroyed." He nods in agreement with Rhodes, "We are, lots of threats get dealt with by adventurers so normal citizens don't have to."

Rhodes frowns a bit at Cesran. "Winter orb? Is that what caused the blizzard in recent weeks?"

Mikilos looks to Cesran with a bit of intrest himself. "Got the impression that stome wasn't wholely natural. Take it you know some of the details?"

Cesran nods, "Yes I was there for it. We had been contracted to find out why some Air elements were up on the top of a mountain. It turns out they were being drawn there, but this item called the Winter Orb. A rogue had stolen it from the Efreet of the Fire Plane. Steel was there and challenged the Efreet who came to get it to a drinking contest, which he won although we helped him by distracting the efreet so he could cheat. The efreet didn't want to give it up and the Ice Elements picked up on the Orb presence and came to get it. We managed to escape as the three elements began to fight on the mountain back to the village thanks to some teleportation spells. We evacuated the village and were ready to face the three elements when Steel came up with the idea to let the paladin that was with us, Gwendolyn, judge who would be the best to get the Orb. She decided to use the wish that the Efreet owed us from the drinking contest to destroy the Winter Orb, when it was destroyed it started a winter storm."

Mikilos blinks slowly. "Von Ironblood in a drinking contest with an Efreet... how have I not heard of this already? Heh. Sounds like the loss of a rather potent artifact, but under the circumstances, I can hardly object."

Rhodes listens to all of this. "I guess it was good to keep it from the efreet, but... drinking contest? I have started to hear about him..."

Cesran nods, 'It was something to see, I've stopped trying to understand him or expect him to act normally. For Steel that is normal."

Mikilos sighs, but smiles. "Steel Von Ironblood is a force unto himself. I'd say I'm gald he's on our side, but really he's his own side. Just glad we've never need to stand against it... though he does need redirecting in his aims now and again... hope he's stopped trying to woo the Dragon Knight... I really can't see that as ending well."

Cesran nods, "Yah that he is. Any with every victory he seems only to get stronger."

Mikilos snorts softly. "And odder. Though rare are those adventurers who get weaker with time. Know my own abilities are far greater than those of my arrival."

Cesran smiles, "I think it's his ego that is fueling his spells and with his latest one no doubt his ego will be a monster now."

Mikilos frowns seriously a few moments. "Well, in many ways, it truely his is ego that fuels his magics. Or the force of it. I chose a wizardly path, but I've sorcerous ability, should I ever deside to develop it. It's more complex than just that, but is something of willing the magic to do what you want."

Cesran nods, "Perhaps so, but I have always thought of that path of magic to be self limiting. Id' rather have the versatility of spells then be limited to just a select few."

Mikilos nods. "I quite agree. Both routes have their own strengths, but that of the wizard suits me." The elf grins, and makes a show of preening for a moment. "Though 'Mikilos the Sorcerer' does have a certain ring to it."

Cesran smiles as he takes a drink, "True, but I like Mikilos the Arcane Builder better. More unique."

Mikilos grins, and corrects midly. "'Builder Arcane'. While the magical objects get the most attention, I do more than a small bit of mundane craft as well. Mostly raw materials that go into an arcane project, to be fair."

Cesran nods, "I have become a fair hand at crafting magical items as well. They do come in handy from time to time. I'm thinking about upgrading my headband to increase my intelligence."

Mikilos grins, and taps the silvery ring upon his own brow. "Quite useful. The more difficult question comes of what to do with the space for storage of extra knowledge and understanding. For myself, I chose to place linguistic data into it. A simple enough matter to just insert a long string of vocabulary and basic grammer rules, to be called upon later."

Cesran hmms, "Mine was found. I have more knowledge on survival, but I'm thinking of selling this one and making one that would give me more knowledge in how to be more perceptive of my surroundings."

Mikilos nods. "Useful, but I'm a little wary... if, some day, the item should be lost or damaged, I'd hate to find myself lacking in an area I'd neglected to train because of a magical 'crutch'. I know the chances are slim, but I've had my gear stolen ones to use against me." The elf considers a moment. "Did you hear of that tale? The metal faced man and the opposite clones?"

Cesran shakes his head, "No I'm afraid that I must have missed that one. It does sound interesting." He continues to eat and is almost done with his stew. His staff pipes up, "I'd like to see anyone steal me, even if it was a clone I'd know Cesran."

Mikilos nods in firm agreement. "Jessa's cousin came for a visit, with a secret treasure map. A lost chunk of the flying city, mostly intact. A little too intact for my tastes. The defenses of the city we managed to overcome, but not a spy working for Charn. A mysterious fellow with a sort of metal mask grafted to the flesh of his face. We were stripped of all weapons and magical items, and tossed into a cell. I could still sence my amulet, somewhere, distant and hazy. The distraction alone would have made an attempt at casting difficult, but the lack of reagents severly limited my options. Still, we managed to break out, and overcome a few guards. Armed with their equipment, we tried to escape, only to bump into clones of ourselves. Physically alike, armed with our things, but their personalities poral opposites. A wildly dull Jessa, a rote and plodding version of myself, a cowdardly and dishonerable Vennan... we managed to stand our own, despite having the lesser armiments. But the tide truely turned when I managed to reconnect with my Amulet. The clone may have held the object, by the power inside knew its true master, and answered my call."

Cesran nods a little bit as he listens to the story, "Sounds like quiet and adventurer. I wonder what my opposite would be...perhaps some slack jawed farm boy." He chuckles a little bit, "Still it must have been difficult without your equipment. I can only imagine what it must have been like."

Mikilos nods. "Was intresting. They weren't exact opposites, but disconcerting, regadless. Of the greater concern was the escape of the Metal Faced Man... never have learned a proper name for him. He showed up again when tried to reopen the Spell Cannon. Had set bombs around the place, near destroyed the Cannon before we were able to disarm them. Hear was also some news of him at the underwater sahuagin base, though I don't know the details. Rather concerned what's become of him. rasonable enough fellow, so far as villians are concerned, but quite dangerous, regardless."

Rhodes has been silent this entire time, listening about the theories of magic and nwo the sharing of stories. "I unfortunately od not have many stories to share, though I find it intriguing to listen to your own. I have a feeling that since I joined the Guild of Explorers that will drastically change the more of their jobs that I take up, and as time goes on, the more elaborate and dangerous too."

Cesran nods, "I did not see any metal faced man during my adventure of the spell cannon. Although some of the Xorn that I did engage with were tinted blue, the first inklings of the Azure Queen no doubt. Perhaps he was an ally of her's, they did seem to have an alarming amount of advanced artifice." He smiles at Rhodes, "I'm sure you will, the Explorer's Guild keeps it's active members in coin and adventurers, although you do need to be careful, they are quite deadly."

Mikilos frowns mildly. "I don't think he was an agent of the Blue Queen, just had interests at the Cannon... though I may well be mistaken. Anyway, yes, much time in Alexandria, and you'll find yourself with tales to tell. Some heroic, some embarassing. Try to avoid the later, if you can."

Rhodes sits at a table with Mikilos and Cesran, various stages of eating and drinking been under way as the three men talk. "Yes, by the sounds of things. I have made plenty of prayers to the Grey Lady to make sure no one dies. One was close with that bandit, but I got to him in time. I am sure that as long as I work with the Guild, that sort of thing will continue."

Kerbasy has arrived.

"Yes, I think..."

"...and the..."

The voices nearly drown in the Pub's natural din. A thin man in gray robes steps in partway. He waves to someone on the street before stepping inside, and then closing the door.

Cesran nods, "Perhaps so, but you never know. Sometimes there is plan within plans." He nods, "That's good to hear, I always count myself lucky when we have a cleric in the party." He looks up and smiles, "Kerbasy! It's is good to see you again friend."

Mikilos grins, and waves to the thin Mourner. "We were just talking about you, actually. Well, not just, it's been a few minutes... sort of fail to recall why your name came up. Any case, please, join us." Frowning mildly, he nods to Rhodes. "But as you say, yes. Adventureing is dangerous enough for a beginer. Those who have been at it a while... the monsters you may meet are truely nothing less than deadly. Some who can literally kill with a glance."

Kerbasy's smile automatically flickers into place before he turns around. He blinks once when he sees who it is, then gives a quick nod of his head. "Cesran, it's good to see you. Mikilos, and..." He pauses when he gets to Rhodes, and then quickens his step towards the table.

Rhodes looks up as another is invited over, and he hears the name that was mentioned before. "Ahh, you must be Kerbasy," he smiles and stands up in order to give proper introduction. "We haven't had a chance to formally meet. I'm Rhodes, fellow Mourner."

Cesran smiles as the two mourners meet and he nods, "Yes I told them how you helped remove the curse that was affecting me." He nods, "Indeed, even those that can't kill at a glance can be extremely dangerous."

Mikilos smiles quietly, and sprads out a bit of a spot for Kerbasy. There's a basket of black bread, fresh from the ovens, a wedge of soft cheese, creamy yellow butter- there's also a rather thick cut of steak, but the elf is keeping that for himself. Shareing only goes so far. "Actually, I'd like to chat for a bit later, when you;ve a spot of time."

"Good too meet you. I'd heard, but I'm afraid you're seein' how the Temple here is." Kerbasy holds out his hand to Rhodes, and shakes if the other man accepts it. He nods briefly to Cesran, grins. "Bugger of a curse, too. And heh, of course." Kerbasy had walked in a few moments ago, when he'd seen the three at a table.

Rhodes does take and shake his hand before offering for him to join them. "It does sound like, keeping one from sleeping, noises in their ears. Please, join us." He sits back down in his place.

Mikilos frowns thoughtfully. "On the topic of curses... are we utterly certain it's the items themselves that were cursed? Could have been someone lurking at the acution, casting curses as things were bought? Unlikely, but want to be certain."

Cesran has an empty bowl in front of him, "Indeed I don't know how much longer I could have lasted without any sleep of course after I slept for most of the day and night to catch up." I didn't see anyone casting any spells at the auction although I wish I had now."

Kerbasy takes the proffered chair, and sets into it. He reaches for the bread as he listens to the conversation. "I came into at the end, myself. If you hadn't said anythin', Cesran, I'd not have heard a word."

There seems to be some commotion outside.

Rhodes looks over to the door outside. "You gentlemen hear that?" He gets up in order to try and see what was going on, to peer outside of a window, or out the door, whichver is the easiest thing to do.

Mikilos frowns thoughtfully, pondering the curse, when there comes sounds from outside. "Hrmm? Another brawl, maybe? Still, best see what it's about." The elf heads towards the window for a look.

There appears to be a bunch of people gathered in front of one of the buildings near the FErnwood, actually.

Kerbasy stops in the middle of reaching for the butter. ...then goes for it anyway. He just stands as he finishes the motion, then takes the partial loaf in one hand. "I heard somethin'," he says.

Cesran hmms a little bit as he's buying making sure his staff is all right as she's been quiet for a while. "Don't pay attention to me fool there is something going on outside." Cesran ohs and looks to Kerbasy, "Well when I couldn't solve it myself I figured it had to do something with the divine...I suppose we should check out what's going on."

Mikilos mmms and nods, heading to the door and grabbing his cloak off a peg on the way. "Not sure what's happening, but looks big. Hopwfully nothing serious."

Rhodes looks outside himself and frowns. "Should we see what they are actually up to?"

Kerbasy tucks the partial loaf into a pocket as he leans outside the door...then well, steps outside. "Heh. Evenin'. Everything doin' alright out here?" he asks. He glances back at Rhodes, then towards the crowd.

As you head out to take a look, you see people standing near the wall of one of the other businesses.

"What is that?"

"Dunno."

As the crowd parts a bit, you can all see that someone painted hwat appears to be half a dragon on the wall here. It's large enugh that it should've been hard to do withoyut being noticed and stopped, but it happened anyways. there it is. It's a coppery color, and it's the front half of the creature. Like someone bisected the image.

Mikilos frowns darkly. "Half dragon... like a half-dragonieri coin. Not likely this at all." Stepping foreward, the elf murmurs a moment, summoning a tiny bit of arcane power to swirl around him as tiny motes of light. Most would recoginize him as a wizard, but no need to take chances. "Anyone see how this happening? Anyone lurking near this spot before the image appeared?"

"Nope."

"Didn't see a thing."

"Hey, that's my building! What the hell?!" says a man coming forward. "Aw, shit. It's gonna take /days/ to get that off."

Cesran hmms as he starts to look it over, "Strange that it would end so abruptly." He says ashe looks over the image. Rhodes is this what the coin looked like?" He asks as he takes a deep breath and he grips his staff. He casts a spell of detect magic to see if that will bring up anything.

Rhodes frowns as he sees this painting as well. "They are getting bold..." Like Mikilos does, he starts to look at those nearby, though it seems their answers are pointless. He looks back to Cesran and nods, "As I understand, yes, it does. Think you can scry on it?"

"...well, it's nice to look at, at any rate," Kerbasy replies. He reaches up and adjusts his lenses. Then jerks his head around as the man runs forward. "You're the shop owner?" A little work and his smile settles into place. It's a warm smile, the sort a priest practices in front of mirrors. Blessed be the Kittens.

"Uh...yeah/" he says, puzzledly. He hooks his thumbs in the front of his suspendes and looks puzzled. "What kind of asshole scrawls half a dragon on a building? Where the hell is the other half?" He frowns.

Mikilos frowns thoughtfully, ideas riseing and being discarded or filed away and altered faster than most minds could keep up with. Not that there's a great deal of action comming out of it all. Look to Cesran a moment, the elf turns his focus to the shop owner. "Do you mind if I take a splinter of the wall? I'd like to examine whatever sort of paint or dye is used. The wall will be simple enough to fix, likely stronger than before for the casting."

"Uh... yes? I mind?" he says to Mikilos. "I mean, if you want to scrape the PAINT off, that's one thing. But I don't want to have to pay for any repairs! I'm runnning a business here!" He hmphs.

Kerbasy massages the back of his neck. There's suddenly a knot there. "Heh. I can understand that. I'm sorry it happened, to be sure." He takes a step back, and looks over at the wall, himself.

"He said only a splinter," Rhodes offers. "But the paint might be able to help, if it's enough, right?" He nods though. "Indeed, it is not right at all, but obviously they are trying to make some sort of point."

Cesran hmms as he continues to concentrate on the image to see if it's magical at all. "I wonder if a bit of prestidigitation will take it off. Usually that's cleans up anything."

Mikilos stands a little straighter; which, at full height, has him towering a full head over the average human. He's not quite offended, but it's a close thing. "If it's merely paint, a scraping should be fine. If it's some sort of dye soaked into the wood, I'll need to know. And if it's neither paint nor dye... well, we'll deal with that should the need arrise. I will, of course, repair any damage caused. And if you know of a workman better qualified, I'd very much like to meet them."

The businessman glares at Mikilos. He doesn't seem intimidated by, well.. an elf. "Whatever. Take your scraping and get out of here." He's clearly more stemaed by this and he calls for the guards.

Rhodes looks at Mikilos as the guards are being called. "We might want to get that scraping before he decides to blame us for the paint on his building."

Kerbasy leans forward to look at the image. He brushes it with his finger tips before stepping away. "Heh. I hope you're able to get it fixed, ser. And, gods' blessin'." He makes the Sign of Triangles in the air, before looking towards Rhodes. "See you back at the Temple?" he asks the other Mourner.

Mikilos mmms, glancing to Cesran again to see if his arcane inquiries have turned up anything, before stepping up to the 'painting' himself and rummaging through his pack a moment. Soon enough the elf holds a few delicate tools, and a couple glass vials for samples. Never know when a sample might come in handy, espically in Alexandros.

"Thanks," says the busnessman to Kerbasy, rubbing the side of his head. Some city watch have come to his call -- they're never far away in this part of the town, and are now inspecting the art htemselves.

"Another one?" says an irritated guard.

"Welp, the city'll send someone to clean it off. We're getting rid of these as fast as we can. They're popping up all over the place, though."

Rhodes gives a nod to Kerbasy, "Indeed, I should be back before it gets too late." He sees the guards come up and frowns a bit. "Another? There are more of these? How many?"

Kerbasy looks over, his brows raising fast.

Mikilos perks up a little, glancing to the guards. "Has anyone been keeping track of exactly where, and when, they show up? Might be a pattern to it all."

"A half dozen in this district alone. Dunno about the others," saysa the guard to RHodes. "And I don't know. THey've probably got a map at the watch house, but I haven't noticed any pattern."

Cesran looks over at the guard, "And has anyone see anything? Or heard anything. They can't just put up a symbol like that and have no one notice."

Rhodes nods to Cesran's question, "Especially one so big. There had to be witnesses, none have come forward so far?"

Kerbasy makes the Sign again, before turning to look towards the guard. "M'apologies for all the questions. We're uh, servants of the city though, you know? Mourner d'Bahjat, at your service. Mourner Rhodes, and the two here are with th' Arcanists."

"No witnesses have come forward yet, anyways," says a guard to Cesran, shaking his head. "Nobody's seen a thing."

"Don't worry. The guard is used to probing questions from busybodies who work for the Explorer's Guild," he adds to Kerbasy with a grin.

Kerbasy coughs once, and grins back. "M'apologies. I'm glad you're here, though."

Mikilos glances to Cesran and Rhodes. "Could be done. Wildly difficult, requireing great skill, and at least a little bit of rather slick magic use. But could be done."

"Nobody's seen a thing at every sight. They just spring up. Dunno how or why yet, but we're gonna get to the bottom of it," says the guardsman, firmly, "And if any of you see anything, report it to the watch station."

Cesran hmms, "Well if I could have a sample of paint I might be able to scry something. It's a long shot, but it might reveal who's doing this." He reaches to take a dagger out and he goes to scrap off some chips of paint into a vial."

Mikilos sighs, and shrugs. "A new piece to the puzzle... well, a puzzle. No certainity it's the same one." He starts back towards teh Fernwood and the last of his meal, but pauses to glance to the guardsman. "I'll be by later to see if can spy any pattern to the marks. Is a long shot, but one worth trying."

GAME: Mikilos rolls craft/painting: (20)+11: 31

Cesran hmms as he puts the dagger and paint chip away to research them later back at his laboratory. He continues to look over the painting, "Too bad we didn't have one of the coins to compare it too, even a drawing of one of them could tell us if they are similar."

Whirlpool pages: It looks like the image was burned onto the wood. You'll be able to see that later. No damage was done to the wood, but the art was applied with heat, you'd wager.

Mikilos sighs, and grumbles softly. "Not sure if I care to keep the conversation on speculations of this, or find a different subject to keep my mind from jumping to conclusions until I can find out more."

Kerbasy takes another curious look at the wall...then turns and nods towards the others. "If we hurry, there's a chance no one ate the food."

Cesran nods to the others, "I'd like to take this back to my lab to take a further look at this. I have other studying to do as well. Have a good night."

Kerbasy nods, but doesn't seem to be too put off. Cesran's meal will probably, ahem, vanish, though.

Rhodes nods, "I think I'm going to pay my tab and head back up to the temple for the night. Perhaps go look at the other paintings tomorrow in daylight."

So might Rhodes'.

Kerbasy has left.

Mikilos mmms absently, pondering as he finishes off his own meal before wandering back to the lab for a bit. He'll check at the guardhouse later to see if he can learn anything more.