Part 3: Welcome to Tragidore!

[GreyWolfVT]

When any of you try to talk with the townsfolk the only replies they give you are "Don’t bother us!" and "Keep going-we can’t help you here!" Eventually the the group reaches the center of town, where most of the shops and offices are located. The first thing everyone notices about the business district is that it isn’t doing much business. Many of the shops are closed, and some even have their windows boarded up as though they’ve been abandoned. There are no children here, just women of all ages and a few men who are either very frail, obese, or old. The level of activity isn’t much greater in the business district than it was in the outlying areas, but at least the people are more communicative. However, their reactions are very hard to figure out. Many of the people are glad to see you, going so far as to rush up and hug you, saying, "You have come to save us, haven’t you? Please hurry to the inn and ask for Marta." Others are also kind to you, but in a different way, saying things like, "Thank you for coming, but please don’t risk your lives for us. Abler souls than you have tried and failed-we must face the fact that Tragidore is doomed!"

Despite the suffering of the people and his rising sense of unease, Eirik struggles to maintain an aura of calm composure. He nods politely to the villagers, but does not reveal any hesitation in his movements. As the groups stops to examine the shuttered shops, he says Looks like this Marta is the one to speak to, whether we seek answers for what plagues this town, payment, or just someone to hand this fellows of to. Let's get to this inn and maybe we'll finally get some answers

Neev - Human Cleric 32/32
"I agree. There are far too many questions and a dirth of answers. This Marta seems to be the one with any sort of information." Neev will take a quick look around for the inn. If he doesn't see it, he will ask one of the villagers to point them in the proper direction.

"I agree Eirik, it seems Marta is the only place to go for information. Lets seek her out, find out what ails the town and then dump our 4 friends wherever she suggests is best. Every one keep your eyes sharp as the problem could lie closer than we think. Usually the greatest enemy is the unknown one right under your nose."
Gandrel keeps a careful eye out as the group advances through the town - trying to spot anything subtle that is out of place/strange etc

The party decides it is best to go seek out Marta as it appears she is the one with the information quite possibly she is the one running this town at the moment. The party moves onward to the Inn as directed with four prisoners in tow.

[Dogma]

"Keep moving," Thifli said, prodding the four prisoners towards the inn. "Let's go talk to this Marta and she what she has to say."

[GreyWolfVT]

Alanis & Lubidius don't say much they just agree in silence with solemn nods.

[Dune]

"This tragidore is in sore shape indeed. No laughter, no men, no opened shops. What's with this, we must find the answer swiftly that's for sure. I really could care less about these theiving bandits, say the word eirik and i'll lightning them all the unlawful lot, stealing from the people bah.. the sooner this mystery is solved the better." Dune prescribes cautiously walking through town and watching the mainly closed buildings.

[GreyWolfVT]

The party makes their way through town to find the Inn The Cawing Crow. The Cawing Crow is a conspicuous building impossible to ignore, because it’s obviously the center of what little activity is going on. As the you all approach the inn, you can see four tough looking adventuring types burst angrily out of the front door, mount their horses, and head south after casting scornful glances back toward the characters. The inn, once a popular dining spot, now looks like a fortress more than anything else. Guards patrol the perimeter, and two more are stationed on the rooftop. All of the sentries, of course, are women. The windows of the building are locked and shuttered. When the you all get to the bottom step of the porch leading inside, one of the guards stands to block your entry and asks "State your business here. Why have you come to Tragidore?" You notice a lot of the other guards are watching you those on the rooftop with bows have them aimed at the party members. The guard blocking your way says in addition "Answer me truthfully or you won't be allowed to enter."

[ybn1197]

Neev steps forward and makes the sign of Pelor. "We have come here to answer the request for help. We saw your sign in Hanuman and we have journeyed here to render what aid we can. Along the way, we learned off some vagabonds way-laying villagers as they left. We have captured them and bring them for your justice." Neev indicates the men they have brought with them.

[Talmor]

As Neev speaks, Eirik pushes one of the more recalcitrant ones forward.

[Dogma]

"And a bite to eat and a bit of beer would be much appreciated too," added Thifli.

[saalaria]

Gandrel remains at the back with his hood up but not particularly covering his face - he tries to assess the guards by how they carry themselves and handle their weapons.

Do they appear experienced and skilled?

[GreyWolfVT]

Do they appear experienced and skilled?

Experienced enough to know what end of the sword & bow to hold. Along with how to point it properly at the target. These folk have been left defending the town for as long as the troubles have started. So they are much more skilled than they were in the start. Some were experienced they just happen to be older retired adventuring types and women.

[max_vale]

Lubidius had been deep in thought as they had marched their prisoners into town. In truth; much of his thinking had been wondering if it would be wise to attempt to make a quiet exit of the place; but his loyalty to his companions won over his selfish nature. His rumbling belly and tired legs though had him echo Thifli's comments; "Indeed; some food and a place to rest would be MOST welcome".

[Dune]

ooc has dune noticed any fellow casters in and around the inn?

[PyroArrow]

Theodore Mumfordian (Half Sylvanian Wood-Elf) Ranger lvl:5 HP 21/21 AC 5):

Theodore has nothing to add at the moment.

[GreyWolfVT]

ooc has dune noticed any fellow casters in and around the inn?

Not outside of it and you cannot see inside the place the door is closed.

The guards tell you "You cannot enter go find somewhere else to get food and water." all of the guards now have weapons drawn at all of you. "You can drop them brigands off in the jail let em rot there too. We know you speak the truth but on those words we cannot let you in." there are many many bows aim at you some very angry and hostile looking folks are glaring at you people on the street back away so as not to get caught in any crossfire. You were not sure what kind of welcome you would get here in Tragidore but it is a bit surprising that you are getting this hostile of a treatment but it is almost as if you have not said or used some word or name to be allowed a warm welcome.

actions?

[ybn1197]

"Where is Marta? I would have her tell us she does not have need of our assistance." Neev stands his ground.

[GreyWolfVT]

The Guards all perk up at the name Marta and put their weapons down and move aside to allow you into the Inn. "You may proceed in." it appears the name or word they needed to hear was Marta. As the group enters the Inn you notice the following:
The common room of the inn is dimly lit by candles. The only furniture in the room is a long table at which is seated a lone woman, and a smaller circular table in front of the large one. Eight guards are stationed around the outside of the room, ready to rush forward if trouble erupts. You are ushered toward the circular table, upon which is resting a globe that looks something like a crystal ball. The object is glowing with a soft, pale gray light. Your escort instructs everyone to place one hand upon this globe.

[ybn1197]

Neev looks at the others and then places his hand on the globe.

[GreyWolfVT]

Neev when you touch the orb it takes on a light-colored glow and the Woman smiles at you happily she appears to be satisfied with the results of your touch upon the orb. She tells you "That is very good you ma remove your hand will the rest of you please do the same as your friend here?" she says is a sweet sounding voice.

[Talmor]

Eirik places his hand on the globe.

[GreyWolfVT]

Again the globe takes on a light-colored glow and the woman again is pleased She tells Eirik the same as Neev. "Alright don't be shy step up who is next please we must do this before you can be let further into speak with Marta."