Leonaidas' Journal

[Karvon]

Lazyzeus : The rest of the group was in the field and can expend a kit if you want to rest at start. Damian, being an expert tracker, has no difficulty in following the rest of the group into the desert...

Damian : *looks around* Looks like the trail ends here, my friend. Hopefully they're somewhere nearby.
Damian : *searches for tracks* Hmm. None lead to this building.

Kataramene : *watches the trap door as others wander around.
Leonidas : *looks around*
Eleni : Downwards, then? Or are we setting camp..?
Polytropos : *pokes a rock with hsi spear.*

Lazyzeus : Those underground hear the sounds of a fracas from the ruins above.

Polytropos : No dead people here -
Eleni : ...I'll take the silence to mean nobody has any particular preference, then -
Eleni : ...what was that?
Polytropos : Erk!
Polytropos : Sssh...
Damian : *stomps on a scorpion* Bah! What?!
Damian : Is everything bigger in Egypt?
Polytropos : I hear a voice.
Eleni : Strange. The undead so far haven't done much talking.
Kataramene : What's going on ?
Damian : *picks up the carcass* Hmm.
Polytropos : There's someone up there -

Damian : Hah!
Telemachus : Oh!
Damian : Gone off without me again, I see.
Kataramene : *calls up* Tel? What's going on?
Telemachus : We could hear you yelling from down there
Telemachus : comeon
Damian : Have you seen teh size of the scorpions around here?
Telemachus : Damien caught up.
Leonidas : *smiles*
Kataramene : Oh! Oh good.
Eleni : Aias! Glad to see you could join us. And you've brought Damian along, I see.
Andreas Appolodorus: How did you get here?
Polytropos : Hello!
Damian : And I come bearing gifts.
Damian : I walked, Andreas. HOw did you guys get here? Fly?
Kataramene : Those gifts are always welcome.
Polytropos : We'd best be on our guard....
Polytropos : Heh.
Telemachus : Damn glad you did, the undead are pretty tough
Telemachus : w
Eleni : Upon the wings of giant ibis, yes!
Telemachus : we walked through the desert
Polytropos : Though I guess that really should be 'beware of gifts bearing Greeks'.
Damian : I miss all of the fun stuff. So what's this about undead?
Polytropos : There's dead people!
Polytropos : We think they come from this tomb.
Damian : They're usually not a problem.
Eleni : Important adendum:
Telemachus : You're lucking you missed them, walking corpses everywhere. tough ones too.
Eleni : The dead people walk.
Eleni : And try to kill living people.
Andreas Appolodorus: Timeo Danaos Et Dona Ferentes?
Damian : Lovely. The dead should know better.
Damian : Anyway, I have two kits if anybody needs to camp.
Polytropos : *nodnodnod* You said it, Andreas.
Polytropos : *grins*
Polytropos : There's a trap door over here!
Polytropos : They're always interesting.
Kataramene : The only thing that seems to be in here.
Polytropos : If something wasn't interesting, you'd just build a normal door to it.
Polytropos : That's logic, that is.
Kataramene : *chuckles*
Eleni : Or some stairs.
Eleni : Stairs are nice.
Eleni : And not at all sinister.
Damian : Rather have a gentle hill slope.
Kataramene : You've been down once, do you want to check again?
Eleni : Or we could just send Tel to charge in.
Telemachus : Safe enough next to the ladder
Eleni : That is always an option.
Kataramene : Or shall we let Tel clear it out then go.
Polytropos : Why change a winning plan?
Kataramene : We could just fetch his body later.
Telemachus : Pol climbed down once already, and he doesn't have a light.

Telemachus : Come on down.
Eleni : Hm...
Eleni : Looks like a natural cavern.
Damian : It's too narrow for all of us at once, we need to go one at a time.
Andreas Appolodorus: I go then.
Andreas Appolodorus: * go down *
Polytropos : Told you it was dark.
Damian : *climbs down* Another cave, huh?
Leonidas : *follows along behind*
Polytropos : *creep creep*
Polytropos : ... something moving...
Polytropos : Uh, lots of things
Leonidas : *climbs down*

Polytropos : Ow.
Kataramene : These .. take .. some .. breaking.
Eleni : More mages, I see....
Damian : Aias has claws, strong ones.
Eleni : I suppose that means we are heading into the right direction.
Polytropos : Thanks.
Damian : Yep.
Telemachus : It's nice having you around.
Damian : I'll try some herbs next time we sail.
Leonidas : *peers down*
Telemachus : Try not to get so sick on the next boat ride
Eleni : Yes. This way, we don't have to get blood on everything!
Kataramene : That's a dep hole.
Polytropos : Big door, too...
Eleni : Well. Not our /own/ blood, anyway.
Telemachus : you see that?
Kataramene : See what?
Eleni : Though at least that's not really a concern with these things, I suppose..
Damian : I doubt these skeletons have blood, Elen-? Eh?

Leonidas : ouch
Eleni : What -
Polytropos : Ow!
Kataramene : More!
Polytropos : ... it snuck up on me!
Eleni : How did a shambling corpse sneak up on you?!
Polytropos : I DON'T KNOW!
Leonidas : One a those things burned me.
Damian : *shakes head*
Polytropos : Owch.

Eleni : Hrm. One of those what? I didn't see what happened.
Kataramene : Those things just seem to thump us.
Telemachus : Think we're headed right for that one
Damian : Let me know if you feel any lingering affects, Pol.
Telemachus : the glowy one that shoots fire
Andreas Appolodorus: May be thyey hide under the sand.
Telemachus : was on the other side of the chasm
Andreas Appolodorus: * they
Polytropos : I feel ok. Bruised.
Damian : You'll be fine then.
Polytropos : *looks at Katareme for sympathy.*
Damian : Just don't let any more shambling corpses sneak up on you.
Eleni : Hm..
Polytropos : Hmf.
Kataramene : *light bat with flat of sword* Could be worse.
Eleni : Whatever's there will be expecting us, then.
Polytropos : Ow. Yeah.
Damian : *grins* Tel, you're up.
Eleni : Are we prepared to move on?
Telemachus : It shot leo then ran off
Telemachus : so it's not completly mindless
Andreas Appolodorus: Certainly.
Damian : I'm ready.
Polytropos : Now, you just know there's something on that bridge.
Polytropos : I'd put something there.
Polytropos : If I was a skeleton.
Eleni : Your instincts have become finely-honed over these past few months, I see.
Leonidas : thanks
Polytropos : It'sw all that shipboard food.
Polytropos : I really feel like a skeleton.
Eleni : They say fish is good for the mind.
Polytropos : Bad for the nose.
Kataramene : If you can put up with the smell.
Damian : It is, actually. Well, rotten fish isn't.

Polytropos : *rattlerattle*
Polytropos : ... hm.
Polytropos : Ok, it's a bit secured.
Eleni : I don't know. It certainly toughens up your nostrils.
Kataramene : This side or the other?
Telemachus : Open it?
Polytropos : I just saiiiid...
Polytropos : Ahum. Uh, Leo? Can you do anything with this?
Leonidas : *examines*
Leonidas : *all clear*
Damian : *leans on wall and turns to Eleni* So what did I miss?

Polytropos : Ow!
Eleni : More of this, mostly!
Kataramene : Ouch!
Polytropos : .. stupid... stupid skeletons. Ow!

Telemachus : That was a bad one.
Polytropos : Hang on. I got this magic stif.
Damian : It did.
Telemachus : weird... thing around it.
Polytropos : Er, stick.
Eleni : Some sort of offensive warding spell, yes...
Eleni : An interesting idea.
Telemachus : oh, thanks
Kataramene : Going to remember that tone.
Polytropos : You know the stories?
Polytropos : The epics.
Andreas Appolodorus: He had a magic thing, not acid this time, what was it?
Eleni : Hm..
Leonidas : *all clear*
Polytropos : Like, you know. tThe powems.
Eleni : *Investigates the carving on the door*
Polytropos : *poems
Kataramene : Has that been forced recently?
Damian : *shrugs* It looked like some type of reflective power.
Telemachus : can we open it?
Polytropos : You ever wonder if the reason great kings could slay a hundred great heroes in a day is because they had magic sticks like this?
Polytropos : *shrugs.*
Eleni : I used to think it was because they had lots of many and lots of poets who liked money.
Kataramene : Magic sticks?
Eleni : *lots of money, even
Damian : But that's more Eleni's field than mine.
Telemachus : There's all kinds of stories of magic weapons and armours and such
Eleni : I think this might be Horus. Like the townsfolk said.
Telemachus : Can we walk through it?
Andreas Appolodorus: Some people need a stick to scratch their back.
Damian : Horus?
Eleni : I don't see why not. I was just curious.
Polytropos : It's a man with a bird head.
Telemachus : You'd spend all bloody day staring at the door if we let you
Eleni : Son of Osiris. Sort of a big deal.
Eleni : *Grins* Well, another hour or two, maybe...
Damian : Who?
Polytropos : So he's like Apollo, or...?
Eleni : Not really... More like... hm.
Kataramene : Or Ares or what?
Eleni : There's not always a good comparison.
Eleni : His mother, Isis, is sort of like Demeter, I suppose.
Kataramene : Trust them to get the gods all /wrong/.
Eleni : Osiris is more like Zeus, if Zeus inherited the underworld instead of the upper.
Damian : I'll stick with our twelve.
Polytropos : *looks at the pictures above the door.*
Damian : Seems safer that way.
Polytropos : Egypt is weird.
Eleni : If you don't mind offending the other dozens we have, sure!
Leonidas : *examines*
Kataramene : *watches the big open space for .... whatever*

Telemachus : Something in thereee
Eleni : Oh, dear.
Polytropos : Uhoh.
Telemachus : let it come to us, shoot it!
Kataramene : Augh!
Eleni : There were two more of those.
Damian : Where's everybody going?

Telemachus : Wow what was that one
Polytropos : They burn well!
Kataramene : *stands shivering*
Damian : Aias? Are you okay?
Damian : Yes, they do burn well.
Polytropos : Uh, that one has a sword.
Kataramene : Augh!It's so dirty!
Polytropos : Aaa!
Polytropos : Why can I never hit?
Eleni : *Cowers in corner*
Kataramene : I'll get .... augh! It smells.
Kataramene : *shivershiver*
Eleni : *Catches her breath* Th... that thing..
Polytropos : *poke.*
Leonidas : my arrows did nothing to him.
Polytropos : We got it!
Eleni : Is everyone alright?
Damian : *shakes* Huh? What? Oh, Aias!
Kataramene : *shivershiver*
Polytropos : Uh...
Leonidas : nope he clobbered me good.
Kataramene : It's horrible.
Andreas Appolodorus: That water creature tried to drown me!
Polytropos : I think Aias needs some herbs.
Telemachus : yergh.. what kind of vile thing was that, just standing near it was enough to make you want to run and hide.
Eleni : *Looks around* Did he run off? I didn't see...
Eleni : ...I was... sort of busy cowering.
Polytropos : It was a bandaged dead man with a sword the size of Eleni.
Telemachus : OOh would you look at this sword
Kataramene : But it was /dirty/.
Andreas Appolodorus: I think the acid got him.
Eleni : A khopesh, yes...
Damian : *rummages through pack and pulls out a kit* I need a rest. Make camp here?
Kataramene : Who wouldn't want to run off.
Leonidas : sounds good to me
Eleni : And these bracers... oh, wow.
Damian : Here should be good.
Andreas Appolodorus: Fancy relics.
Telemachus : look perfect for kat
Eleni : Whoever this man was in life, he must have been a great warrior. A king or general, maybe.
Kataramene : Is there something pretty?
Telemachus : something practical.
Damian : Rest if you need to, I'll keep watch.
Eleni : Well, it's simple iron, but it should be very effective.
Telemachus : I'll carry the sword? I don't think anyone can use it.
Polytropos : *keads Kat to the pot.*
Polytropos : *leads*
Polytropos : There's a nice bair of arm guards.
Kataramene : *follows, pouting*
Damian : Yes. You or Kat could make very good use of those, Tel.
Eleni : The enchantment should enhance your grip, and I think there is a fire resistance charm embedded in it as well.
Eleni : *Presents the bracers*
Eleni : Should be able to use them to parry as well, I suppose.
Eleni : They certainly look sturdy.
Kataramene : The engravings on them are kind of pretty, and glowy.
Leonidas : *looks around*
Eleni : *Grins* And there is also that, yes.
Polytropos : They make you look like a queen!

Leonidas : *examines*
Leonidas : Look out for the trap!
Damian : What you got, Leo?
Damian : Oh. Tel!
Leonidas : some sorta holy symbols
Kataramene : *fits them and twists her wrists* They make you feel very .. powerful, yes.
Leonidas : *shrugs*
Telemachus : Breakfast routine heh
Damian : Pretty much.
Telemachus : Thanks.
Eleni : That thing, though...
Leonidas : I unlocked the door though.
Damian : I'll be ready with the healing.
Eleni : Something strikes me as odd.
Telemachus : door on the right and one on the left
Leonidas : can't figure out how to deactivate the symbols though.
Kataramene : Apart from Andreas's choice in clothes?
Polytropos : ... ohhh yah.
Damian : At least he's wearing some now.
Eleni : No, I'm used to /that/ by now.
Damian : Or was.
Polytropos : *poke poke poek*
Kataramene : *elbows Andreas grinning*
Polytropos : Yay!
Eleni : Horus is supposed to represent the Pharoah in life. Osiris is the Pharoah in death. At least, from what I understand...
Polytropos : I poked the door in the eye.
Eleni : So it's odd to see Horus pictured in a tomb.
Telemachus : well? go in! check for traps.
Damian : Maybe-
Polytropos : Erk.
Polytropos : Grbl-
Andreas Appolodorus: You are jaleous after all I'm the only real athlete here. Did you see me run away from that bandaged dead man?

Damian : Back!
Polytropos : ... ow.
Kataramene : Were those... alive?
Eleni : Oh... I don't think so, no.
Telemachus : compared to what?
Polytropos : I think a dead man lives here. An actual dead dead man.
Eleni : Their spirits must have been bound to this place.
Damian : I can see why you all missed me.
Kataramene : Um... should we be going in the graves?
Polytropos : Well...
Damian : Then we don't have to bother knocking.
Telemachus : Gotta check everything.
Polytropos : They do seem to give their dead people some amazing things.
Andreas Appolodorus: Is that what they call an Ankh?
Eleni : I was about to ask... taking what belonged to the already-defiled dead already seems a bit gauche.
Kataramene : True.
Leonidas : Looks clear.
Damian : If they attack us, their stuff is fair game.
Eleni : This one seems to have been left alone, for whatever reason
Leonidas : ...and rather heavy.
Telemachus : Agreed, loot it.
Telemachus : what's with the jars?
Polytropos : Hrm.
Eleni : Hm. They use those to store the organs and entrails of the dead, I think.
Polytropos : *tries to use his spear to lever up the slab.*
Damian : So let's beat up some walking dead and take thier stuff.
Andreas Appolodorus: Is that wise?
Damian : Damned things are an abomination anyway.
Eleni : That is no fault of the dead.
Polytropos : We're in the middle of a desert fighting the walking dead, Andreas. We left wise a long time ago!
Polytropos : *hhhnggh... levers*
Polytropos : Ghnghn
Polytropos : Nrgh
Damian : You tell that to the wrapped corpse that almost killed all of us, Eleni.
Polytropos : ... going to need some help.
Polytropos : Did a god put this here?
Kataramene : Might be able to, with the bracers.
Damian : Why are we here anyway?
Polytropos : It weighs a talent!
Kataramene : Would it help to push it sideways?
Polytropos : We have to stop the dead from walking around.
Telemachus : the jars have little heads like the spirits
Damian : And I don't mean in a philisophical way either.
Telemachus : ones a tiger and ones a dog.
Kataramene : Oh yeah...
Leonidas : To find loot.
Eleni : *Sighs*
Polytropos : C'mon, Tel, use that trident on the other side.
Eleni : Such noble heroes, we are.
Kataramene : Because dead are attacking the city.
Polytropos : Kat, see if you can get at it under with something?
Telemachus : fine....
Eleni : Yes. We're here to find out why.
Telemachus : *helps lever*
Kataramene : We got attacked by a lot of them as soon as we got off the ship.
Polytropos : Hngh!
Andreas Appolodorus: So we turned into grave robbers to er save the city?
Polytropos : *tries again*
Leonidas : right
Polytropos : It's not robbing until we actually take something!
Polytropos : *hngh*
Kataramene : I haven't got a spear for a levelr. *goes to try pushing either way*
Leonidas : They don't need the stuff anymore.
Lazyzeus : Telemachus does well at first, until he realizes that Polytropos is pushing at it from the other side.
Andreas Appolodorus: You may unleash hell by opening this thing.
Lazyzeus : Katamarine adds her strength, and the slab moves!
Polytropos : ... alright, now it might be robbing.
Polytropos : They put a picture of the bird god on a shield.
Eleni : *Sighs* I suppose I didn't complain about Daedelus...
Telemachus : Is it magic? gotta be magic.
Kataramene : That's to be expected.
Eleni : You mean Horus? Or Ra?
Polytropos : I don't know. Look!
Polytropos : Bird god.
Telemachus : You're wearing a dead guys pyjamas you can't say a damn thing
Eleni : That's Horus, yes... hm.
Eleni : *Prods Tel with elbows, continues as if nothing was said* Interesting.
Telemachus : ....Anyone mind if I?
Leonidas : great more stuff for warriors.
Eleni : It should protect against some of the draining effects we've seen these undead use. And it might have some healing power, as well.
Polytropos : Don't worry, Leo.
Andreas Appolodorus: Have your spoil and let's move on.
Polytropos : One day we'll fight a skinny shrimp who shoots arrows with a magic bow like Paris of Troy, and you can have his things.
Leonidas : Yeah riiiiight
Damian : You mean there's two of them?
Polytropos : We can keep looking...

Polytropos : Hrm...
Polytropos : Uhoh.
Leonidas : *looks around*
Telemachus : Is that gold?
Polytropos : Aaaa!
Kataramene : Watch out!
Polytropos : I am!
Eleni : I see you've made yourself more comfortable, Andreas.
Polytropos : ... there's another...
Polytropos : ... two.
Telemachus : two..
Polytropos : Three?
Telemachus : Magic em!
Damian : Get them together if you can.
Kataramene : Doesn't explain why they are leaving the p..
Polytropos : I can hold these off. Get the thers.
Polytropos : Kat! Get the others!
Kataramene : Eleni is sorting those!
Polytropos : They're cutting everyone up!"
Polytropos : Ow, ow, ow, it hurts to be this good.
Damian : If this is good, I'd hate to see bad.
Polytropos : Hey!
Eleni : Don't congratulate yourself /quite/ yet.
Damian : *chuckles*
Polytropos : Two of them couldn't put a mark on my shiny, shiny armor.
Eleni : Those things put up quite a fight. Shrugged off most of my spells...
Kataramene : *sniffs a little*
Damian : Then why are you bleeding?
Polytropos : They got my arm.
Damian : Uh-huh.
Polytropos : Spartan shield.
Polytropos : Don'[t need no bird god.
Polytropos : ... oh.
Damian : At least you were safe, Eleni. I got cut down trying to get away to heal.
Polytropos : Um, it's a dog god.
Telemachus : Shield came in handy though.
Eleni : I know. I tried to - what?
Eleni : That's not a dog. It's a jackal.
Jackal Guardian : Et chu katarsis na terek tah?
Damian : A man with a jackal's head.
Telemachus : What's he say?
Kataramene : Still don't see anything to say why the dead are attacking the c.... it spoke.
Eleni : Um...
Polytropos : I think it sneezed. Uh, hello?
Eleni : *Frowns, trying to decypher the Old Egyptian in her head*
Leonidas : Damian can speak with dogs can't he?
Damian : That's not a dog, Leo.

Jackal Guardian : *casts something*
Jackal Guardian : You are not of this land.
Jackal Guardian : More thieves, come to steal the gifts of the gods?
Eleni : ....no, we are not.
Kataramene : Well ... /is/ it a god.
Eleni : But we come to answer a call for help, from those that do live here.
Damian : Well, Leo is a bit dyslexic.
Kataramene : He's dressed very neatly for something in a tomb.
Eleni : Their city is being harried by the walking dead that seem to come to this place.
Jackal Guardian : The dead have come at my bidding.
Polytropos : *cough* Uh, no thieves here...
Eleni : Why? Who are you?
Telemachus : *hides sheild behind his back*
Jackal Guardian : I am the Guardian.
Kataramene : *hides wrists behind shield*
Jackal Guardian : They will not rest until the Light of Amun has been returned.
Damian : *w* Eleni, ask him if something was taken from here.
Telemachus : The whatnow?
Polytropos : The light of a moon?
Eleni : *Tilts head* What is this thing you speak of, and what happened to it?
Andreas Appolodorus: The Sun God?
Jackal Guardian : It was taken from here.
Damian : Amun?
Kataramene : What /is/ the Light of Amun?
Jackal Guardian : The Light is sacred to Horus. A gift from the god, but now is not its time.
Jackal Guardian : Thieves came and carried it away.
Jackal Guardian : I will see it returned.
Polytropos : ... persian thieves?
Eleni : ...foreigners, but not quite like us?
Kataramene : Were they not off this land too?
Jackal Guardian : They spoke the tongue of this land, the words with which I greeted you.
Polytropos : Um. Well... we don't know them.
Jackal Guardian : The Light pulses in my awareness. It rests within the place of men beside the water.
Kataramene : *shakes her head* Were they learned or.... oh.
Eleni : *Scratches head* In the city? Ra-Kedet?
Kataramene : So that's why you are sending bodies there?
Andreas Appolodorus: Sons of Egypt what a shame.
Jackal Guardian : They will not stop until the Light is found.
Jackal Guardian : The thieves cannot forever hide it from my sight.
Eleni : I see...
Damian : Great. Walkind dead things soiling the ground.
Damian : *Walking
Telemachus : Well how about we just go get it for you, and you stop throwing dead people at the town?
Kataramene : ....
Jackal Guardian : That is acceptable.
Eleni : We would help you, yes, if you would let us. To recover the Light before the dead raze the city.
Polytropos : Just give the town some day's grace!
Telemachus : Honeslty if you'd just tied a note or something to one of the shambling corpses life would have been a lot simpler.
Polytropos : If we fail, by all means, keep sending dead things.
Damian : Not enough pizaz, Pol.
Jackal Guardian : I will give until the sun rises and sets again.
Kataramene : That's a bit of a rush, it took us a day to get here.
Eleni : That is not very long, by a mortal's reckoning.
Kataramene : Then we have to find it and /then/ persuade whoever has it to give it up.
Polytropos : Nrgh...
Jackal Guardian : Very well. When the sun has risen and set again twice over, then my servants will come and take apart the place by the water, stone by stone, brick by brick, until the Light is found or none left remains.
Kataramene : ... we'd better get moving.
Damian : My thoughts exactly.
Eleni : That... is all we can ask for, I suppose. How shall we recognize the light?
Polytropos : I guess it'll be really bright.
Damian : I don't know, the moon isn't very bright usually.
Jackal Guardian : It is fashioned in the shape of that which is held in the god's left hand.
Leonidas : Anyway for us to track or detect it?
Eleni : Amun isn't related to the moon, I don't think.
Leonidas : It could be anywhere in the city.
Jackal Guardian : It shines with the light of Amun.
Jackal Guardian : Hidden, it is kept, its power shrouded.
Kataramene : Errr... is there a picture of him anywhere?
Jackal Guardian : *looks straight at Telemachus*
Kataramene : *looks at Eleni*
Damian : *looks at Tel*
Eleni : *Scratches head* An ankh, perhaps?
Kataramene : *moves the look to Tel*
Jackal Guardian : You are correct.
Andreas Appolodorus: Yes.
Kataramene : What's an ankh?
Damian : I think he's talking about that shield we "found", Tel.
Eleni : Oh! Good. So we look for a glowing ankh...
Jackal Guardian : Use this wisdom to find the Light, and the town shall escape my wrath.
Eleni : Understood...
Eleni : Thank you for this mercy.
Kataramene : Is that /more/ wisdom, or just what you've said?
Andreas Appolodorus: Then it shall be done.
Damian : That statue we found with the carrying ring on top in the other room, Kat.
Kataramene : Oh right.
Eleni : We will want to hurry, then.
Damian : Yep.
Eleni : *Bows to the guardian, then departs*
Jackal Guardian : *the guardian watches silently as you leave*
Polytropos : Let's, um, yes.
Damian : *waves* We shall return.
Polytropos : Good thing we didn't try and look at that other building.
Eleni : Hm...
Eleni : This is not quite what I expected.
Damian : I almost went in there until I didn't see any of your tracks leading to it.

Lazyzeus : You retrace your steps back to the entry...

Leonidas : Wouldn't it be easer to just kill the dog guy and be done with it?
Damian : Nope.
Eleni : There is no reason to believe that will silence the dead.
Polytropos : i don't want to fight a dog god.
Eleni : And besides...
Damian : Or a god dog.
Eleni : It may be beyond us.
Damian : Or even a god's dog.
Leonidas : Ok whatever
Polytropos : I mean, if we don't find the moon light or whatever, we can try.
Damian : Hold. I heard something.
Eleni : Hrm. Back east in the dark..?
Kataramene : At least it's dark. How long to dawn?
Damian : Nevermind, just a small scorpion.
Polytropos : Did someone open this?
Damian : I did.
Eleni : Oh. Thought so.
Polytropos : Ow!
Telemachus : Are we going in these buildings too?

Polytropos : Ow ow!
Telemachus : run!
Eleni : I... don't think it would be worth the time or risk of incurring the guardian's wrath, but..
Kataramene : Shouldn't we.... *sigh*
Telemachus : or figfht!pick one!
Eleni : ...
Polytropos : Grrrrr
Damian : *sighs*
Kataramene : Nasty dirty thing.
Polytropos : That'll teach 'em.
Telemachus : it had a stick

Leonidas : *looks around*
Damian : *looks at the mummy* I'm glad we didn't come down here first.
Polytropos : No-one throws burning magic at me and gets away with it.
Telemachus : Magic stick?
Eleni : You would have been in trouble against it alone, for certain.
Damian : I throw magic at you all the time. Oh, you meant harmful magic.
Kataramene : *bats Poly with the flat of her blade again*
Damian : No, I would have run away.
Eleni : Um, a staff... hm.
Eleni : ...I suppose it is a bit of a waste.
Kataramene : *serves it right, look*
Polytropos : *smile*
Polytropos : You know it!
Damian : Nice. Makes you look like an honored elder, Eleni, but without the wrinkles. *grins*
Telemachus : Ahh they wont miss it.
Eleni : *Cough* I should hope not..
Kataramene : We need to get moving.
Telemachus : what about in there?
Polytropos : It's all buried.
Damian : That thing is buried, Tel.
Eleni : Should we really...?
Kataramene : Going to have to walk all night as it is.
Eleni : Hm, yes.
Telemachus : hmm yeeeah I don't think we want to dig doiwn
Eleni : Already tired at the thought of it.
Polytropos : I just checked in there 'cos of the open door. I didn't know it had been Damien!
Eleni : At least I have a staff to lean on.
Damian : No harm done.
Polytropos : We need to get you a breastplate, Tel.
Damian : They come in handy, Eleni, especially against vermin.
Polytropos : You look like a Ptolemaioi.
Eleni : This one can spray acid, though. Which seemed to work well on those honoured dead earlier.
Eleni : A what, now?
Kataramene : Aughh!
Polytropos : An Egyptian!
Kataramene : I can't see1
Kataramene : What is it?!
Kataramene : *flails blindly*
Polytropos : Leave her be!
Damian : It's gone, Kat.
Kataramene : *rubs at her eyes* Something knocked me over and threw dust in my face.
Telemachus : It's alright we killed it
Telemachus : ... I think..
Damian : Looked like the dust itself rose up against us.
Telemachus : if you can kill wind?
Polytropos : *pats her shoulder*
Polytropos : C'mon. City soon.
Eleni : Maybe we merely.. dispersed it?
Kataramene : N#ow I'm dirty.
Damian : It's gone, that's all I care about.
Eleni : Hard to say.

DM Felrisen: The Eastern Horizon starts to brighten

Polytropos : I'll help you wash.
Eleni : Hm. One thing I do miss...
Telemachus : We were all dirty already, we've been crawling through crypts all night
Eleni : The Egyptians don't have a lot of baths.
Kataramene : My feet are rather scruffy.
Damian : Pol can rub them later.
Polytropos : I can!

Egyptian Soldier : Those Greeks are back!
Eleni : Yes! Hello.
Polytropos : But, um, what do we do? Do we tell the wise man, or the king's servant, or...
Damian : There are other Greeks about?
Eleni : Thanks for letting us in.
Polytropos : Hello, Egyptians.
Egyptian Soldier: Did you all make it? *looks at them with curiosty*
Leonidas : Make what?
Egyptian Soldier : Not so far as I am aware. Your kind sometimes visits in ships, but none have come since you arrived.
Kataramene : We're all still here.
Telemachus : Hey Pol, you can take this back now.
Polytropos : You shouldn't see any dead for a while.
Eleni : All still breathing, yes. We have some things to talk about...
Egyptian Soldier: That's good news
Polytropos : Ah, hey, thanks/
Kataramene : *low* For a day at least.
Polytropos : It really is.
Eleni : So. Are we going to talk to the governor?
Kataramene : We could ask around a bit.
Polytropos : What if he's in on it?
Damian : *shrugs*
Polytropos : ... no, wait, that's stupid. He wouldn't send us, then.
Polytropos : Alright, the governor.
Eleni : Maybe he would, in hopes we could elliminate the source of the problem directly.
Kataramene : He might have thought we'd just make it go away.
Egyptian Commoner: *looks at the passing Greeks with curiousity*
Damian : *rummages through pack* Are there any merchants around her? I don't have any supplies and only two kits left.
Polytropos : Unfortunately for him, we Greeks respect the gods, even the dog-headed ones.
Damian : *here
Kataramene : *throws the man a bright smile*
Eleni : Precisely. Still, we have little idea of where to start, and he might be the best chance we have at that..
Polytropos : And, um, yes, there's a merchant...
Telemachus : the guy in the book-house sells the cheapest healing kits
Kataramene : *looks over at the seer*
Damian : Good. You guys go do your talking and I'll do some shopping.
Telemachus : It's that one over there.
Telemachus : *points to the big building to the east*
Damian : Ah. Thank you, Eleni.
Eleni : No problem. And yes, the library's were a bit more reasonable.
Damian : This one?
Eleni : That's the one!
Damian : God.
Eleni : Tell the librarian we said hi!
Damian : *Good
Kataramene : Hmm...
Damian : Hello!
Pharoah's Elite: You have purpose with the Pharoah's Voice, Greek barbarians?
Harkhebi : Can I help you?
Damian : *extends a hand* I'm with the group of Greeks that recently came here.
Eleni : We apolagize for our desert-worn appearance, but we only just returned. Could we speak to Imhotep?
Harkhebi : *takes offered hand* Ah yes....those visitors
Pharoah's Elite: I will see if he will accept audience.
Eleni : *Nod*
Kataramene : *attempts to brush down dirty clothes, and looks at the fountain longingly*
Damian : Those are the ones. They say hi. Anyway, they said you had wares for sale?
Polytropos : Purpose? Of course we have purpose. He gave us a task. You just stand and watch a door. Get on with it, honestly.
Polytropos : *shakes head*
Polytropos : These Egyptians are crazy.

Imhotep: Ah, my Greek friends.
Harkhebi : *nods* indeed. Speak to my clerk over there, he may have what you need
Imhotep: You return with news?
Eleni : Ah, governor. We have some news...
Eleni : We might wish to discus this in private.
Damian : *smiles* Thank you. Nice place you have here.
Kataramene : *looks unconvinced*
Damian : Wait there, Aias.
Imhotep: Of course. THis way, please.
Leonidas : *listens*
Imhotep: I have sent off the servants.
Eleni : *Ahem* We found the tomb, and the source of the dead...
Eleni : We also found its guardian. A creature with a jackal's head.
Damian : Interesting. I wish I had time to. Oh, him? Don't worry, he won't attack you.
Polytropos : Everyone walked off.
Imhotep: How terrible? You defeated the monster?
Damian : Yes he does, but as long as he's not standing out all day, he's fine.
Polytropos : *suspicious squint*
Eleni : This was no monster. It spoke to us.
Damian : I offered to shave him, but he gave me a dirty look.
Eleni : Have you ever heard of something called the Light of Amun, governor?
Eleni : *Regards his reaction carefully*
Imhotep: No, I cannot say that I have.
Damian : I told him it would grow out, but he won't listen to me. Oh, before I go, do you know anything about the Light of Amun?
Eleni : A blessed Ankh, apparently, which the guardian claimed was stolen from the tomb and is being kept here, in Ra-Kedet.
Imhotep: Stolen? *looks suddenly angry* Thieves, I knew it!
Eleni : Only when it is returned will the dead cease to rise. We managed to convince it to give the city two days' respite...
Eleni : But of cousre, it is of the utmost importance we find it as soon as possible.
Imhotep: Of course! And I have a good idea where to look.
Eleni : Indeed?
Damian : Really? I had hoped a learned man such as yourself would know. All I know is that it's a glowing ankh of some sort.
Imhotep: In every town there is a den of vipers.
Imhotep: I never thought they would bring such disaster upon all of us... but perhaps I have been too tolerant.
Eleni : A sad truth, in Greece as well as Egypt.
Kataramene : Vipers?
Kataramene : Snakes you mean?
Eleni : Criminals, I think.
Imhotep: Yes, that is your word for them.
Kataramene : Oh right, I thought they were rats. Never mind. *slight nod*
Damian : Belongs to a jackal headed spirit guardian type thing?
Imhotep: In Ra-Kedet, such men have a lair within our... what is the name of the place?
Imhotep: A place where one goes to get...ah... companionship?
Eleni : ...I see.
Kataramene : A taverna?
Eleni : I believe the governor is refering more to a... pleasure house?
Imhotep: Yes.
Damian : The guardian gave us a day to find it and return it, otherwise the dead things will keep attacking. But if you do find something, please let us know.
Imhotep: These men are led by one named Djehuti.
Polytropos : Jehooti?
Kataramene : *sniffs with a superior air*
Damian : *smiles* Thanks. I'll leave you to your task then. Good day to you.
Imhotep: They steal a few coins here and there, cheat foreign sailors, host rigged games of chance, that sort of thing.
Damian : Come, my friend, time to find the others.
Imhotep: They do not ruffle the better classes so I have tolerated their presence.
Imhotep: It seems that perhaps I am wrong, if they have upgraded to robbing tombs and unleashing curses.
Damian : *shields eyes* Damned sun.
Polytropos : Do you... know if it's them, or... is this just a guess.
Imhotep: Would you be willing to investigate? I fear that if I send my royal guards, they will vanish before we can catch them.
Imhotep: Who else could it be?
Polytropos : uh.
Damian : Stay here, Aias, and don't drink from the fountain!
Eleni : Indeed so. And even if they are not themselves responsible, they may have heard something important... such an ancient relic would have to be disposed of through dark channels, yes?
Imhotep: Ah, that is a wise observation.
Damian : Hello.
Eleni : *Turns head* Ah, Damian. Um, close the door behind you, please.
Kataramene : Damian!
Egyptian Slave: *brings tray of water-filled Goblets*
Telemachus : we think we know who might have taken the light of the moon thing.
Damian : The librarian said he'll consult his scrolls for mention of the ankh.
Polytropos : Ooo, thanks.
Eleni : *To the governor* The seventh of our number. He was ill at our first meeting.
Kataramene : *takes one thankfully*
Imhotep: Hmm, yes.
Damian : *waves* Sorry for bardging in, your...lordship?
Polytropos : Wait.
Kataramene : What?
Polytropos : *to the slave* Do you just sit in that small room all day?
Imhotep: He will not reply.
Imhotep: This one, he has no tongue.
Eleni : ...oh.
Polytropos : Oh.
Polytropos : Uhm...
Polytropos : He... could nod?
Damian : *looks to see if there's a spare cup for him*
Egyptian Slave: *brings the empty tray back*
Imhotep: A man in a position of power, he cannot have slaves who spill secrets to his rivals. *shrugs carelessly*
Leonidas : *sniffs than downs the water*
Imhotep: Now, as for these thieves.
Polytropos : *weirded-out look.*
Kataramene : *blinks a little*
Eleni : All one would have to do is learn how to write.
Eleni : And slaves with no hands would not be very useful...
Imhotep: The pleasure house is located on the far side of city. Its door depicts ... ah, the services available within.
Eleni : But yes. These criminals...
Imhotep: A slave, learn to write? *chuckles*
Kataramene : *return of the superior look*
Damian : A pleasure house? We'd better not let Leo in there, we'll never get him out. Then again, that might not be a bad thing...
Andreas Appolodorus: Shall we proceed?
Eleni : Don't give me ideas, Damian...
Imhotep: I leave it to your wisdom on how best to deal with Djehuti. Though he is canny, do not underestimate him.
Imhotep: If you must kill him and his men, be sure to find out about this artifact first.
Eleni : Perhaps we should talk to our ship's crew. They might be familiar with the place.
Damian : I can't keep the good ones to myself, Eleni. *grins*
Kataramene : I think just Eleni and .... *pauses*
Eleni : *Raises brow at Kataramene*
Polytropos : He may be canny, but we are canny and we have swords. We'll be alright.
Imhotep: I have no doubt.
Leonidas : hmm
Damian : Even our swords are canny.
Kataramene : *sniffs a little* We don't want them all distracted.
Damian : I'm always distracted.
Eleni : Or maybe that is exactly what we want... well, we can discus this elsewhere.
Imhotep: If the sands are flowing through the glass...?
Telemachus : Lets get to work.
Imhotep: Keep me appraised of your progress.
Polytropos : You have glasses of sand too?
Eleni : Indeed.
Kataramene : Yes.... it's been a long night but yes.
Damian : What? Oh yes. Thank you for your time.
Imhotep: Of course? How else does one know the time?
Polytropos : Ha! Ha. Uh, yes.
Polytropos : ... seriously, what is he talking about.
Kataramene : *shrugs*
Eleni : Hm...
Damian : Come on, Aias, I'll get us some water somewhere else.
Eleni : There's a well right over there.
Damian : Yes, my super trackign skills are still in great form. *gets some water from the well and shares it with Aias*

[Karvon]

Lazyzeus : All right, we return to Ra-Kedet, where the sands are ticking down on a deadline with the town's fate in the balance...

Polytropos : *huff.*
Kataramene : *stalks off, leans on a rock*
Eleni : *Puts hand to forehead, frustrated*
Eleni : Please nobody punch anything.
Kataramene : Do they have men in there to talk to?
Damian : *sits on the rock* Not even a little bit?
Eleni : I don't know! Most brothels back home don't, I don't think, but here you have ladies trying to buy male bed slaves on the street, so, maybe?
Polytropos : *snort.*
Telemachus : It'd be a lot faster. And we'd be doing the town a favour.
Kataramene : Then maybe there's a way for /allo/ of us to pose as customers.
Eleni : By punching townspeople in the face?
Polytropos : Fine.
Telemachus : punching *criminals*
Kataramene : Or perhaps two of us won't have to pay for things.
Telemachus : and not just the face
Telemachus : you have to work the body too
Eleni : Not everyone in there is going to be a criminal!
Telemachus : don't you know anything?
Eleni : Punching is your area of expertise, Tel.
Kataramene : *huffy look*
Polytropos : Augh!
Damian : I doubt there are any laws against what they do here, Tel.
Polytropos : Let's just go in there and ask to see the boss.
Telemachus : Andreas is the expert I'm just an enthusiast
Kataramene : I think I might change. To look nice.
Polytropos : We only have Rameses's word that they've got the thing anyway, and he doesn't look like too much of a man of the people to me.
Polytropos : *dismissive nod back at the palace.*
Telemachus : When did you talk to Rameses?
Eleni : You might be right... but we don't have much else to go on.
Damian : You look nice already, Kat. *sniffs tunic* We had better get inside soon.
Polytropos : No! You know, the advisor. Imhotep.
Telemachus : Yeah
Eleni : Even if they don't have it, the local underworld might still have heard something.
Polytropos : *grumble.*
Kataramene : *smiles primly at Damian* Thank /you/ for noticing.
Telemachus : and he said they were a bunch of no good criminals running the place
Polytropos : *mutter mumble.*
Telemachus : so lets go and sort them out.
Polytropos : Let's just get a look.
Telemachus : with punching.
Polytropos : Where are they, anyway.
Leonidas : *listens*
Damian : I notice more than you think, I just don't talk about what I see because sometimes words fail to describe the wonder.
Polytropos : Why aren't we moving!
Leonidas : *smiles*
Kataramene : *preens a little, smiling*
Eleni : Because Damian is massaging Katara's ego.
Damian : *dusts off* Still, I'm starting to smell, so let's get going.
Kataramene : At least /someon/ pays attention.
Eleni : The place is by the docks, I think.
Eleni : There'll be plenty of people paying attention soon, I think...

Polytropos : ... aaaah.
Polytropos : In here, or?
Damian : Does anybody remember where the docks are?
Eleni : Through here.
Kataramene : That's a ... what /is/ in there?
Polytropos : Yeah!
Damian : Right.
Polytropos : And it looked empty.
Eleni : Only it might still be inside the city walls, I suppose.

Lazyzeus : Looking over the docks, you see several ships, but no structures that could be large enough to hold a brothel.

Damian : Could ask one of the guards.
Kataramene : How big does a place be to house whores?
Leonidas : *looks around*
Eleni : Hm, yes. So unless they are doing bussiness outside a bireme...
Polytropos : Hey, guard.
Eleni : Inside, rather.
Egyptian Soldier: Yes, Greek?
Polytropos : We're looking for Djehuti's place.
Egyptian Soldier: Ahhh, I see. Your Greek women not enough for you, ah?
Kataramene : *glares*
Polytropos : ... I guess we'll see.
Eleni : *Dubious look*
Kataramene : *throws Poly a "You're so going to pay" look*
Egyptian Soldier: Is over on side of town. What is Greek word? Place where sun rise.
Damian : *hides a smirk*
Polytropos : What, the east?
Egyptian Soldier: East, yes. East side of town.
Polytropos : Right.
Egyptian Soldier: Look for curtain with many woman.
Kataramene : *mutters something about it rising somewhere else for some*
Egyptian Soldier: Bring many coin.
Polytropos : Understood.
Kataramene : *emanating pure indignation*
Polytropos : ... I think I did well there.
Kataramene : *loud snort*
Damian : Aside from calling him "guard", I agree.
Polytropos : Hey, he called me 'Greek'.

Eleni : Hm. All blank curtains.
Boy: Nehutas?
Polytropos : Nehuwhat?
Boy: Mekat mes?
Damian : Because you called him guard.
Boy: Hapasus net?
Polytropos : We don't speak your weird language.
Boy: Appus!
Kataramene : He just sees you as a cheap option.
Boy: *grins, holds out a hand in universal gesture*
Damian : *points to his ear and shrugs*
Telemachus : Think i found it
Polytropos : Hnh.
Boy: Neppa nut!
Eleni : Ah! I think you did....
Polytropos : There, go away.
Telemachus : They only curtian I've seen with any ladies on it.
Kataramene : *huffy snort*
Damian : Egyptian art is very stylised, don't you think?
Polytropos : Go away!
Boy: Nepat nut!
Telemachus : You'd think they'd buy a door if they were going to go to all the trouble of painting it like that.
Polytropos : No!
Boy: *holds out hand*
Polytropos : I've given you something.
Damian : Easier for customers to enter and leave, Tel.
Polytropos : *nudges the boy away with the butt of his spear.*
Polytropos : Go away.
Kataramene : He needs to save what he has for the wares in there.
Boy: Nepat nut!
Telemachus : Doors are considered hard?
Boy: *smiles charmingly up at Kat* Nepat nut?
Damian : Doors can be locked.
Kataramene : *empty pocket, gesture*
Eleni : I think places like these are almost always open for bussiness, though.
Polytropos : Can get away from the beggar children in here maybe.
Boy: Isa natut haspat nasu.
Kataramene : *snorts*
Eleni : *Tosses the boy a single coin*
Kataramene : Could you hurry any more?
Boy: Yesu nut!
Polytropos : I'm being focussed.
Boy: *grins toothily up at Eleni*
Damian : *pulls out a bit of food and hands it to the child*
Boy: *wolfs it down*
Kataramene : *glare - a very focused one*
Eleni : *Smiles, then shakes her head*

Eleni : Into the den of inequity!
Egyptian Prostitute: *smiles at the newcomers*
House Matron: Ah, barbarians! Welcome to our fine house.
Polytropos : Helloo.
Leonidas : *smiles*
Egyptian Prostitute: *coyly looks over the stangers*
Kataramene : *so tense you could strum her like a guitar string*
Polytropos : Haha! no, no. You are confused. We're Greeks.
House Matron: I am Hesrasil, matron of his house.
Leonidas : *smiles*
Damian : *w* Your light outshines theirs, Kat.
Eleni : *Smiles* In other words, we are especially strange barbarians.
Leonidas : *strums harp*
House Matron: Of course, Greeks. Do not fear, my ladies do not mind the smell.
Polytropos : *frowns.*
Kataramene : *preening lost in rising ire*
Damian : Good. I'm sure you don't know how hard it is to wash fur.
Leonidas : *laughs*
Egyptian Prostitute: *Smiles and says in a low voice* Is it true what they say about Greeks?
Eleni : *By contrast, appears to be keeping her cool*
House Matron: We can suit every interest. Clearly you are men... and women... of great worth. *evaluates your gear with a critical eye*
Telemachus : What, don't take any big wooden horses? Yeah that's true.
Eleni : Especially in this weather. I don't suppose your services happen to include a bathhouse..?
House Matron: Of course.
Egyptian Prostitute: *hint of a blush* Oh they say Greeks are all.....big boys *giggles*
Kataramene : *humphs*
House Matron: Would you prefer a large oiled man with that, or perhaps a woman?
Kataramene : *looks at Eleni*
House Matron: To scrub your... ah, back?
Eleni : Oh, let us examine the options first, shall we?
Egyptian Prostitute: Well hello there sugar....you look real sweet to me *chuckles*
House Matron: And for the gentlemen? I ah, assume you are not interested in baths.
Eleni : Though it's nice to know that is a possibility.
Egyptian Prostitute: Wanna show a girl a good time?
Kataramene : *looks wondering who she's talking to*
Damian : *leans out the door* No, I told you, Aias, they don't allow bears in here.
Polytropos : *mumble.* ... don't mind baths.
Eleni : Not that kind of bear, anyway.
Egyptian Prostitute: How about you big boy? Wanna show a girl a good time?
Damian : Yes, I know I stink, but so do you. Now stay out of trouble, my friend.
Andreas Appolodorus: Hm.
House Matron: How very odd.
Polytropos : I always do. But for now, we're looking to meet the man in charge.
House Matron: Now, I know this is base, but... excuse me?
Kataramene : *glare*
Egyptian Prostitute: *looks deflated*
Eleni : *Chuckles* Oh, please, do be base.
Egyptian Prostitute: *pouts*
Egyptian Prostitute: Your no fun!
House Matron: You wish to speak with the manager? Is there a problem?
Kataramene : *transfers glare* I can be a lot less fun than I'm being now.
Polytropos : No problem. We'd like to talk business with... Djehuti, is it?
Damian : *leans against wall and takes a drink of water*
House Matron: And this business is concerning?
Leonidas : *listens*
Eleni : I know, right! And I have to spend weeks sharing a tiny ship with them.
Polytropos : Trade.
Egyptian Prostitute: *tucks a loose hair behind her ear and wanders away*
House Matron: *claps hands, waves the girls off*
Kataramene : Maybe I /do/ want a bath and someone to scrub my .. back.
Damian : *w to Eleni* And don't forget Kat's ego.
House Matron: And who should I say wishes to see him?
Polytropos : *looks at the others.*
Telemachus : A party of heavily armed and increasingly impatient greeks.
Eleni : Some greeks who might want to find a buyer for fine Greek goods.
Kataramene : And one who might like a bath.
House Matron: You will find that master Djehuti does not respond to threats.
House Matron: You will wait here.
Eleni : It is mostly Tel who is impatient...
Telemachus : I'm wearing sodding fur armour in a desert.

Polytropos : ... what do you think? Just walk in?
Eleni : ...now I just hope we didn't send anyone running.
Telemachus : It's not the best clothing for waiting around in.
Damian : *picks at teeth* UP to you. Aias is just outside.
Polytropos : That's what I'm thinking.
Kataramene : *looks at the bouncer*
Kataramene : I was coming round to the idea of a bath and some personal attention.
Telemachus : See if he comes out first. Maybe he'll be smart enough to realise he can't keep the bloody thing
Leonidas : *strums harp*
Kataramene : Don't blame me.
Eleni : *Grins* I noticed.
Polytropos : Well, sorry, Kat.
Polytropos : I guess I was too busy being all sensible.
House Matron: He will speak with you.
Eleni : Maybe we'll have a chance for that later, if Tel doesn't lose all of his remaining patience.
Kataramene : *huffy snort*
Damian : I could use a bath and a wash basin.
Eleni : Wonderful!
House Matron: If you don't mind putting your weapons away, however?
Polytropos : *looks at the spear.*
Eleni : Ah, of course. Forgive us. Barbarians, don't you know?
House Matron: I'll not have blood spilled in my house.
Damian : *sniffs Tel* Good. It's not just me.
Polytropos : This is taller than me, how do I 'put it away'?
House Matron: Hmph. Well, come this way, then.
Polytropos : Leave it by the door is the best I can manage.
Telemachus : *sigh* I know. Some day I hope to afford a nice breastplate..
Egyptian Prostitute: *stands leaning on the doorjam and a finger from her hand wriggling her nose as they pass*
Kataramene : *glare again*
Polytropos : *nod-smirk.*
House Matron: *wags finger*
House Matron: No blood!
Eleni : Let us not keep him waiting, now.
Damian : Tell that to them.

Djehuti : Enter.
Eleni : Greetings, sir.
Polytropos : Well, don't you look important.
Djehuti: So. Greeks come bearing gifts, eh?
Egyptian Thug: *eyes the strangers with unease*
Djehuti: Ha! Appearances can be deceiving, no?
Leonidas : *looks around*
Eleni : Who said anything about gifts? I was talking about bussiness.
Polytropos : You know, that really should be, 'beware of gifts bearing Greeks'.
Djehuti: For example, I have here an assortment of Greeks.
Kataramene : *eyes the curtains*
Djehuti: Business is a gift, no?
Polytropos : Good business is.
Eleni : If one is feeling poetic, possibly.
Djehuti: An odd assortment of heroes... yet one that gets an immediate audience with the Governor.
Djehuti: More to see than what one's eyes tell, no?
Eleni : I see you are a man that pays attention to the world around him.
Djehuti: It does not pay to keep one's eyes closed.
Kataramene : *folds her arms and adopts what she hopes is a more charming smile*
Djehuti: So, heroes of faraway Greece. What can this one do for you on this fine day?
Eleni : Yet so many do. All the better for your line of work, I suppose....
Telemachus : You might have noticed all the dead people wondering out of the desert?
Djehuti: Difficult to miss, that.
Eleni : *Coughs* Bad for bussiness, I would imagine.
Djehuti: But that is what heroes are for, no?
Telemachus : being ripped apart by ghouls generally is.
Djehuti: If you are asking if I would prefer they not be here, then yes, that is true.
Djehuti: But that is not what brings you to me, I gather.
Telemachus : It is, in a round about way
Eleni : Well, then... I understand you might sometimes deal in antiquities?
Djehuti: I deal in many things, pretty Greek.
Kataramene : This one might be important.
Eleni : *Smiles* And I was enquiring as to one thing in particular.
Djehuti: Everything is important to someone who needs it.
Kataramene : More important than you can cope with ... alone.
Djehuti: And this thing you seek?
Polytropos : *looks at the others.*
Kataramene : *avoids his gaze*
Eleni : We might actually have some things to trade as well, but - yes. That is our chief purpose here.
Damian : *nods at Eleni*
Djehuti: Anything I can do to help, of course. *smiles*
Eleni : A great glowing ankh. Doubtless old and valuable.
Djehuti: It sounds a fantastic treasure. Perhaps linked to the recent attacks by the unsettled dead?
Kataramene : You catch on fast.
Eleni : Perhaps. Perhaps it is the sort of thing that might arouse the anger of the dead, were it taken from its rightful place.
Eleni : You understand the gravity of the situation.
Djehuti: Some treasures are more trouble than they are worth. I do not seek to deal in curses or gods.
Kataramene : Particularly as they seem to know where it is.
Eleni : Yet, it would be understandable if something like this passed through your hands at some point. You cannot be expected to be held responsible for every item people bring to you, after all...
Egyptian Thug: *smiles at the last remark*
Kataramene : *nods and smiles at that*
Kataramene : The unwitting victim of an honest deal.
Djehuti: You dance the dance of words well, pretty Greek.
Djehuti: But I fear I must bring you disappointment.
Djehuti: This treasure has not passed through my hands.
Eleni : I see.
Djehuti: To be honest, my business has been... hindered, of late.
Polytropos : There must have been others besides us who've come ehre by ship.
Eleni : Oh? By more than the vengeful dead, I assume?
Egyptian Thug: *looks over at his companion and frowns*
Djehuti: If such a thing left Ra-Kedet, I would know, young warrior.
Egyptian Thug: Do you really want to tell them Boss?
Kataramene : *lifts and eyebrow*
Djehuti: I do not pay you to think, so if you would keep your teeth, keep them silent in your head.
Egyptian Thug: Sorry Boss
Egyptian Thug: *gives his companion the " you idiot" look*
Djehuti: My employee believes that our business matters should remain private, but perhaps they are connected to your... problem.
Damian : *scratches tunic* So we help you with your problem, you'll help us with ours?
Djehuti: Why not?
Damian : Why not indeed.
Djehuti: You are heroes, that is what heroes do?
Eleni : *Nods* Sometimes, there are things more important than any one deal, yes?
Djehuti: Indeed. So many of our ... activities, they are conducted out of sight. I abhor the chatter and gossip of the market square.
Polytropos : Huh.
Kataramene : *vaguely worried frown*
Djehuti: There are some caverns underneath Ra-Kedet. Convenient for use as sewers.
Eleni : What sort of people did this particular activity involve, then?
Djehuti: Oh, you need not worry about that.
Djehuti: The activities I mention have been interrupted for some time now.
Kataramene : And you wish whatever is there that inhibits them removed?
Djehuti: Oh, I know what inhabits them. More of these walking dead.
Leonidas : hmm
Damian : Is the ankh down there?
Eleni : The dead gather beneath the city? That is... hm.
Eleni : Not illogical.
Djehuti: We destroyed the first few... at great expense and effort, I will say... but more arrived to replace them.
Djehuti: They have not yet tried to force the doors that lead to that place, but it is still something that makes one uncomfortable.
Eleni : I would imagine so.
Djehuti: I have not gone to the Governor, due to the ... ah, gap in our working relationship, but nor am I insensitive to the needs of the town's people.
Polytropos : *almost comically suspicious look.*
Damian : The undead are like that. It's not as if you can kill them again. Destroy one and another will take its place unless you stop what's creating them.
Djehuti: So, if you feel my dead and your missing artifact are related, then perhaps we can help each other as your furry friend suggests.
Egyptian Thug: *chuckles a little* At least they wouldn't smell any worse when they come out Boss!
Damian : *to the Thug* Want a hug?
Eleni : *Put off look* Would you believe yours is the first bath we found in this place?
Djehuti: *nods graciously*
Kataramene : *throws the thug a "say that again, go on" look*
Eleni : If there is one Greek thing I miss, it is the bathhouses.
Djehuti: Every people feels theirs is the best civilization. I leave the truth to the philosphers.
Leonidas : *smiles*
Leonidas : *nods*
Djehuti: There is an entrance to the caverns within this building, if you are willing to continue.
Eleni : *Shrugs* I was not seeking to pass judgement. Merely that I like bathhouses. But at any rate...
Eleni : *To the others* We know what the undead are after. If they really are congegrating below the city in such numbers, it might be because they are drawn to the relic...
Damian : On one condition: I have a rather large friend waiting outside that will require admitance.
Kataramene : *nods at Eleni*
Kataramene : And he is a useful friend.
Polytropos : Or that there just happen to be a bunch of dead caught up in a place and someone wants us to go get ourselves killed. But we'll see.
Djehuti: *shrugs* Your friend need not be shy, the ladies here have seen all types.
Damian : He's not human.
Polytropos : Yeah, i think this one might be a bit too much for anyone.
Egyptian Thug: *raises an eyebrow*
Kataramene : *snorts and lifts her chin*
Polytropos : They call him Aias, you know.
Djehuti: *shrugs* I did say, "All types."
Polytropos : *squick look.*
Damian : Uh-huh. Just tell your "ladies" that he won't molest them and to let him pass.
Egyptian Thug: Barnyard animals have been seen from time to time in here *shrugs*
Eleni : *Chuckles* I would hope some people can still be shocked by /some/ things..
Telemachus : Well Aias is a bloody great bear
Djehuti: Kotto, go with him and see there is no trouble.
Kataramene : *echoes the squick look*
Egyptian Thug: *both eyebrows raised at the bear remark*
Eleni : Don't worry. He only bites bad people.
Egyptian Thug: Yes Boss
Telemachus : And for the sake of my sanity I'm going to believe the barnyard animals just came in for baths
Djehuti: I once knew a man who had a trained elephant. It was quite impressive. It would stand on its hind legs and toss a ball into the air.
Kataramene : What's an elephant?
Eleni : Oh, my. That must have been quite a sight.
Djehuti: A large beast, like a house on legs, with great ivory tusks and a long snout.
Damian : *calls* Aias!
Leonidas : hmm
Eleni : *Nod* The size of a small house, som of them.
Damian : Ah, there you are, my friend. Come, we're going to fight some undead.
Polytropos : Gonna get my spear.
Djehuti: They used to bring them up from Nubia. Ah, those were the days.
Kataramene : *blinks*
Damian : Yes he is. I tried putting him on a diet, but he wouldn't hear of it.
Eleni : Further south, some use them as beasts of war.
Polytropos : Elephants. Sure.
Kataramene : *then narrows eyes watching Pol*
Djehuti: Come, I will show you the way.
Polytropos : Sorry, lady. Got work.
Damian : Aye. *pulls out some food and tosses it to the beggar child*

Djehuti: *takes out a bronze key*
Djehuti: *operates a heavy lock*
Kataramene : *hands on hips*
Djehuti: *looks through the opening in the door first to make sure it's clear*
Djehuti: I will have to lock the door again when you are through.
Djehuti: Just bang on it when you are ready.
Kataramene : Tel is good at that.
Eleni : *Sniffs*
Telemachus : I've had no complaints.
Eleni : *Calls up* I really hope this comes with a complementary bath later.
Kataramene : When it comes to knocking on doors you are amongst the best.
Egyptian Thug: You have to crowd in there
Egyptian Thug: I need to close the door
Polytropos : I feel like we got conned.
Eleni : Hm, I don't know...
Damian : *scratches tunic* Aias, if you gave me fleas, you're getting a bath.
Kataramene : Why? Because you peplos is still on?
Eleni : It's not like a door is an obstacle we can't overcome.
Polytropos : *snort*

Telemachus : little houses?
Damian : Probably store rooms.
Polytropos : I just - oh, hang on.
Eleni : Used for bussiness, I assume.
Telemachus : Ye gods this sword is a thing of beauty
Polytropos : I just - oh. oho.
Polytropos : You alright!
Kataramene : Ow ow ow.
Eleni : He was not lying about the dead, at least.
Telemachus : Tch Kat take a step back if you're getting too much attention
Kataramene : They smell, and that hurt.
Polytropos : Remember, fight with locked shields, like they taught us.
Damian : Or let Aias through.
Kataramene : *pouts*
Kataramene : More!
Telemachus : He's useful in his way, but he's not a great part of a sheild wall
Polytropos : That's the way!

Eleni : Left or right?
Eleni : ...or backwards?
Kataramene : We need to be sure none are at our back.
Eleni : Nothing back there?
Polytropos : ... there's one hitting a door.
Eleni : Um?
Kataramene : We could have ...
Kataramene : *looks behind her*
Eleni : ...something luring it there, you think?
Telemachus : someone mioght be traped
Polytropos : *tinks the door.*
Polytropos : Maybe.
Leonidas : *examines*
Polytropos : Not sure if we're getting through solid bronze, though.
Kataramene : *calls* There could be many out here still.
Polytropos : Yeah, in a minute!
Kataramene : Thank you.
Telemachus : there was another tunnel from the entrance
Telemachus : I think?
Leonidas : Likely several exits from this sewer.
Kataramene : Poly checked it.
Eleni : No doubt.
Damian : Where's Andreas?
Telemachus : ah ok..
Eleni : *Waves*
Eleni : Nothing here!
Leonidas : *looks around*
Kataramene : *looks at Pol and lifts her chin in a huff*
Leonidas : you could wade to it.
Damian : No thanks, I stink enough as it is.

Lazyzeus : You see light on the far side of the water; you could wade out that way but it would be a messy affair.

Telemachus : ugh
Telemachus : ..lets call that plan beta
Andreas Appolodorus: Do we have a rope?
Leonidas : more dead ahead
Damian : More like plan omega.
Kataramene : Right.

Kataramene : Hold a line Andreas!
Polytropos : Big one!
Kataramene : It smells!
Kataramene : Augh! Augh! Augh!
Damian : Hah!
Eleni : Calm down, Kat!
Telemachus : Well done.
Polytropos : It's ok! We got it!
Kataramene : It's horrid! It stinks!
Polytropos : I know!
Eleni : It's also dead!
Damian : *scratches Aias' ears* Well done, my friend.
Eleni : I mean, twice-dead.
Kataramene : I know! That's why it stinks!
Eleni : Destroyed!
Damian : Whatever. It's gone.
Eleni : Aias smashed it into pieces.
Kataramene : But it .... really?
Polytropos : Yeah!
Kataramene : Well ... good.
Kataramene : *pats Aias*

Leonidas : nother exit thru the pool here
Eleni : These wards might help..
Eleni : Will have to see.
Leonidas : looks like the dead came in this way.
Leonidas : *looks around*
Eleni : Crawled through, it seems.

Lazyzeus : The opening in the cul de sac is only large enough for a rat.

Polytropos : Not sure what to do...
Damian : Might have to swim for that light.
Eleni : Oh. What fun.
Telemachus : Think we're gonna have to
Polytropos : There's a light?
Kataramene : What about the door?
Leonidas : don't suppose anyone found a key on any of the dead?
Polytropos : No keys here.
Telemachus : unless one of you has a spell that'll let us walk on water
Leonidas : No way to open that.
Damian : I didn't see any pockets.
Leonidas : wading the way the dead came in might lead to something.
Kataramene : It'll lead to outside.
Eleni : Probably...
Eleni : It's that door the dead want, I think.
Telemachus : hmm
Kataramene : You know, perhaps our friend upstairs as the key?
Telemachus : Possible.
Leonidas : Or at least can tell us where it end up.
Telemachus : might have just wanted us to kill all the dead
Eleni : He knows that won't stop them from coming back.
Telemachus : lets go and talk to him.
Eleni : We told him as much.
Kataramene : *pauses, looking up*
Polytropos : *squints down the water*
Telemachus : might just want time to sell the thing, if he has it.
Polytropos : *nods to himself.*
Polytropos : Alright, then.
Kataramene : Where does .... Hmmm.

Telemachus : *knock knock*
Damian : Could just bust it down, Tel.
Djehuti: Ah, you have returned.
Djehuti: No horde of dead at your heels, eh?
Telemachus : It's rude to do that without knocking at least once
Leonidas : indeed
Telemachus : they're all dead.
Kataramene : Where do you think we are?
Eleni : Only a horde of dead-ead.
Eleni : *dead-dead
Damian : *shrugs*
Polytropos : Re-dead.
Andreas Appolodorus: Not sure.
Djehuti: *works the lock*
Kataramene : Can we get down into it, Andreas?
Telemachus : If there were, we'd knock the door down
Eleni : Do you know you have another door down there?
Eleni : Rather sturdy, bronze one?
Djehuti: Ah, yes. Long has that door vexed me.
Polytropos : *blinks.*
Kataramene : Let's pace it.
Eleni : Vexed..?
Polytropos : Wait a second.
Kataramene : *counts under her breath*
Telemachus : it's not your door?
Djehuti: I have had my best men try to open it. I even hired a mage to write a spell. "Opens all locks," he claimed.
Polytropos : We're on the east side of the city, yes?
Leonidas : *shakes head*
Polytropos : Or, well. Town.
Djehuti: I tried acid, fire, even ruined an axe on it.
Eleni : I've a scroll that should do that, but.. hrm.
Eleni : I doubt it would have more luck, if what you say is true.
Polytropos : and that's the town sewers.
Djehuti: Did not work for me. Perhaps your magic is stronger.
Polytropos : *eyes widen.*
Telemachus : what?
Kataramene : Right, left, right, right....
Polytropos : What building on the west side of town is likely to have a door like that?
Damian : *looks around* Where are Kat and Andreas?
Leonidas : you know about what's above that door?
Kataramene : Left, left.
Djehuti: I know not.
Kataramene : Does he have the key?
Telemachus : nope
Polytropos : Only one I know of. The Palace.
Damian : No.
Eleni : No.
Kataramene : Do we believe him?
Eleni : He's been trying to get in for years himself, apparently.
Damian : No reason not to.
Telemachus : .. would the palace be over that door?
Telemachus : or near there?
Polytropos : It's on the other side of town.
Djehuti: The palace? Hmm... seems a long way.
Kataramene : Right. I've done some pacing... and have a thought.
Polytropos : *shrug*
Leonidas : could be more tunnels.
Polytropos : Go on?
Leonidas : leading to another area.
Djehuti: I do not discount the possibility... but are you suggesting that the Governor is behind the attacks?
Kataramene : Just need to do the pacing back the other way.
Polytropos : Well, we'll find out, Mr. Djelibabi.
Eleni : Perhaps unwitingly...
Telemachus : oh I'm pretty sure it's wittingly
Leonidas : Indeed, palaces can be large; he may be clueless.
Kataramene : We have to hurry. The day is nearly gone.
Polytropos : Lead on, Kat.
Djehuti: Well. I have faith in you, my Greek friends. If the mystery can be solved, I am sure you will solve it.
Eleni : I was trying to be diplomatic about it, Tel.
Telemachus : hmmm
Djehuti: And should you need to sell any interesting treasures you find, you know where to come.
Egyptian Thug: Sewers are clear now though?
Kataramene : *starts counting under her breath*
Eleni : For the moment.
Polytropos : Yeah. Nice brothel, too.
Djehuti: I will give you my special price!
Egyptian Thug: Thanks good news
Eleni : The dead will come back sooner or later.
Leonidas : *smiles*
Djehuti: When this is all over, come back and I'm sure Madam Hesrasil will give you a nice discount.
Kataramene : I might be back for a bath.
Leonidas : Sounds good to me.
Kataramene : And ... maybe ..
Djehuti: Kotto, show our friends out..
Eleni : ...hm.
Kataramene : *pacing....*
Eleni : Until next we do bussiness, then.
Polytropos : Sounds great!
Kataramene : *huffy look*
House Matron: *watches you go*
Eleni : *Sighs* It /does/.

Eleni : Perhaps the library has old maps of the town?
Leonidas : *smiles*
Kataramene : *paces some more*
Eleni : ...nightfall already.
Kataramene : Blast. It goes into a wall.
Kataramene : Start again here.....
Telemachus : We're running out of time
Kataramene : This way...
Kataramene : Then this way...
Kataramene : Aaaaan.
Polytropos : Ha-HA.
Eleni : ...Are you certain?
Eleni : ...hm, I wonder..
Eleni : *Looks down the well*
Polytropos : The old king's servant sent us on the wrong track while he made plans!
Kataramene : Can't be totally certain my paces were the same length. It might be a bit that way *points south*
Telemachus : I *suppose* someone could have planted the anhk in the palace..
Kataramene : We can go on a hunch?
Eleni : Hm. Doesn't go down quite as deep, I think.
Polytropos : ... alright, I suppose that could have happened too.
Telemachus : We can start knocking on peoples doors and asking to see their basements if you want?
Eleni : A bunch of foul-smelling Greeks demanding to be let into their houses...
Eleni : That might not go over well.
Leonidas : I'm sure that would go over well.
Kataramene : It's night fall, we need to make up our minds or attempt to fight them all off.
Polytropos : No time! We storm the palace!
Telemachus : *shrug* seems like it's going to be in the palace anyway.
Kataramene : Or take ship and leave them to it, but that's not very heroic.
Polytropos : Or... knock at the door or something!

Kataramene : *takes the initiative and bangs on the door*
Telemachus : We can just *tell* them where the undead are going.
Eleni : We could. See how they react...
Leonidas : Could always just ask if the palace has a sewer entrance and see what happens.
Eleni : Be /insistent/.
Kataramene : No answer. *bangs loaudly with the hilt of her sword*
Damian : Whatever we do, we need to do something soon.
Polytropos : That's if we get as far as being able to talk.
Telemachus : like I said someone might have hidden it in the palace. Seems unlikely though.
Polytropos : Tel, do your thing!
Telemachus : huh... would have expected the guards to answer by now...
Eleni : Hold on, hold on..
Kataramene : Yes, knock the Telemachus way.
Eleni : Let us try this without destroying government property, if we can.
Telemachus : maybe get Leo to try his way first?
Telemachus : not that it wouldn't be fun..
Eleni : There!
Kataramene : .... that works.
Telemachus : ooh
Polytropos : ... oh. Or that.
Andreas Appolodorus: Nine magic trick.
Telemachus : Why haven't you been doing that the whole time?
Damian : We're lucky we have your delicate touch, Eleni.
Eleni : Aren't you just?

Polytropos : *sneak sneak sneak*
Telemachus : no guards
Eleni : Hm.
Kataramene : Unexpected.
Egyptian Slave: *opens door at the noise*
Polytropos : Oh, uh... hello.
Eleni : ...hi!
Egyptian Slave: *looks frighten*
Kataramene : That room you sit in.
Eleni : Please do not be alarmed.
Damian : I think that's the mute.
Polytropos : Just stand in the corner and you won't get hurt. *gestures(
Andreas Appolodorus: Good, someone is wake.
Egyptian Slave: *backs away*
Eleni : The tongueless man, yes. Terribly sorry about that.
Damian : Shame you can't read minds as easily as you can pick locks, Eleni. I'm sure this one's is full of information.
Andreas Appolodorus: Do you know the way down?
Eleni : Oh, indeed.

Lazyzeus : It appears that the Governor does not actually live on-site, nor is there any apparent entry to a lower level underneath the building.

Telemachus : *peaks under the carpet*
Polytropos : Awww, don't say we're wrong.
Eleni : This idea might have been.. off.
Kataramene : It might have been further south, like I said.
Eleni : *Searches rooms for anything hidden*

Pharoah's Elite : Hold!
Pharoah's Elite : Do not move!
Eleni : Oh, darn.
Pharoah's Elite : Thieves!
Eleni : *Ahem*
Telemachus : OH *now* you come to teh door
Andreas Appolodorus: Thieves? Where?
Egyptian Slave: 8gestures to the guards*
Imhotep : *comes in hastily pulling on a robe*
Imhotep : What is the meaning of this?
Egyptian Slave: *tries to communicate they broke in*
Polytropos : The door was open!
Imhotep : You... you broke into this place?
Telemachus : The undead are searching for something under the palace
Eleni : Broke in? Oh, no.
Imhotep: Under the palace?
Andreas Appolodorus: No.
Eleni : We just rather felt we had something that could not wait until morning.
Imhotep: There is nothing under the palace!
Telemachus : there are caverns down there
Eleni : We have only until next sunset, you do realize?
Pharoah's Elite: *looks suspicious*
Eleni : Yes, and a door. The undead are trying very, very hard to get inside.
Imhotep: *waves a hand* Yes, yes. A door? To where?
Telemachus : and a big, strong door, the undead were trying to breach
Pharoah's Elite: *eyes them with unease*
Telemachus : we couldn't open it.
Kataramene : We are trying to find a way in from the top.
Leonidas : Thats what we were hoping you could tell us.
Eleni : Somewhere on the western side of town. Not far from here.
Polytropos : I realise this sounds mad.
Imhotep: Well, it is clearly not here! I would know about it if there were!
Eleni : Well, not far from here and /below/.
Leonidas : Perhaps you know of someone nearby that could afford and desire such a thing?
Telemachus : Well we are sorry for barging in. We feared their might be some imminent danger.
Imhotep: Well, there are no secret passages or rooms under this building, I assure you!
Polytropos : We're not thieves. We're heroes!
Eleni : Hm.
Kataramene : And when there was no answer to our knokcs we feared the worst.
Eleni : There must be /somewhere/ near here.
Kataramene : We must hurry! We do not have long!
Eleni : Might you have any ideas, governor?
Egyptian Slave: *makes sleeping gesture*
Imhotep: Maybe you should ask at the library, they may have plans about the town's construction.
Imhotep: Records, something.
Telemachus : The undead attacks will start again soon, and likely they've had time to build their forces by now..
Kataramene : ... we could do that.
Leonidas : ...and are they open at this time of the evening?
Polytropos : I... suppose that makes sense.
Eleni : Indeed. That was to be our next stop.
Polytropos : *grudgingly*
Telemachus : We'll wake them up too if we have to.
Imhotep: Well, if you can wake me and my staff, then surely you can wake them as well.
Imhotep: Now, if you do not mind... *gestures to the door*
Eleni : We apolagize for the breach of decorum, but you understand the severity of the situation better than anyone else, I'm sure.
Kataramene : Well, yes, sorry about that.
Damian : Of course. Please forgive our intrusion.
Eleni : We will return if we have news.

Kataramene : *peers at the seer*
Eleni : ...I /guess/ that could have gone worse.
Damian : Hmph.
Polytropos : Dammit, I was so certain.

Harkhebi: Who are you?
Leonidas : Hey there
Eleni : Hello, hello. Sorry about the hour.
Harkhebi: Oh, the Greeks.
Kataramene : I did say I might be too far north.
Harkhebi: *waves a hand* It is all right, I rarely sleep.
Leonidas : we're looking for a door into the sewer.
Eleni : We have rather urgent need of information.
Damian : Wait here, Aias.
Leonidas : you got one here?
Harkhebi: What an odd request.
Eleni : Old map of the sewers, or just the old town...
Eleni : It could be very important.
Harkhebi: Ah, you're the one who asked about the ankh.
Leonidas : well we do have an odd situation.
Damian : That I am. Have you any news?
Kataramene : And we really /are/ in a hurry.
Harkhebi: Indeed! You Greeks are unusual, certainly.
Damian : *shrugs* We're an odd lot to be sure.
Harkhebi: I am shamed to admit it, but several of our books on ancient artifacts... they are... missing.
Harkhebi: As for the sewers, why would we ever go into the sewers? This is a library. We have a cellar, but it's just used for storage and the like.
Eleni : Missing...?
Polytropos : *puzzling.*
Telemachus : The undead are trying to get into part of the sewer guarded by a particularly tough door. we want to find out what's in there.
Harkhebi: Yes, I am mortified. Khafra often said we needed better security here.
Harkhebi: I always say that knowledge should be open and free to all, but apparently some wish to steal it.
Damian : Can we take a look in your cellar? We might find a clue down there.
Leonidas : *nods*
Harkhebi: *looks exasperated* Very well, though I don't know what you'll find.
Eleni : Neither do we, truthfully.
Damian : Neither do we, but we'll know when we see it.
Harkhebi: It's just down these stairs.
Kataramene : We're grabbing at anything here.
Telemachus : We should probably start looking for the key too..
Eleni : So about old maps... those did not dissapear as well, I hope?

Leonidas : *looks around*
Eleni : Oh, /probably/ not.
Damian : This is like wrestling a greased pig.
Polytropos : Let's see...
Leonidas : need a key for that one
Telemachus : Get him to come and open this door...
Damian : *gestures at Tel* We have one.
Eleni : Ah, sir. We have a lock.
Kataramene : Could you/
Harkhebi: Yes, what is it?
Eleni : This door. What is behind it?
Harkhebi: A storeroom. We hardly use most of this space as it is.
Telemachus : well, if you could open it..
Harkhebi: Very well. Though this is all very irregular.
Harkhebi: *fumbles with a key*
Eleni : We know, and we apolagize. This is an irregular situation.
Harkhebi: *frowns* That's odd.
Leonidas : *nods*
Damian : Undead are very irregular.
Eleni : Unless undead incursion are more frequent in Egypt than we had supposed.
Harkhebi: My key should open every lock in this building! But it's not working.
Kataramene : What is odd?
Eleni : *Raises brow*
Kataramene : Oh..
Eleni : Leo, could you try?
Damian : Tel!
Leonidas : Tel, have at it.
Telemachus : Let me try *my* key
Harkhebi: What are you... oh my!
Eleni : *Sighs*
Damian : Pretend it said something bad about your mother.
Andreas Appolodorus: Who else would hold a key?
Harkhebi: Violence!
Eleni : Apolagies once again...
Harkhebi: *looks in, curious despite himself*
Telemachus : Trapdoo.
Damian : Now that's a universal key.
Eleni : We will have the governor reimburse you, if we can.
Polytropos : *frowns, trying to lever up the trapdoor.*
Eleni : Did you know about this trapdoor?
Telemachus : That looks like our door!
Kataramene : Who has access except yourself?
Damian : I bet that leads to wherever that bronze door led to.
Leonidas : which would mean the thing is in the library somewhere.
Eleni : Khafra... your mage, yes? Where is he at this hour?

Telemachus : Or that chest..
Polytropos : Ow!
Polytropos : Whowhaba?
Kataramene : Blast..
Eleni : ...?
Damian : *leans into the trapdoor* Everything okay? I thought I heard screaming.
Eleni : Excuse me...
Leonidas : smash it
Kataramene : It was only Pol.
Polytropos : *calls* There's a box!
Telemachus : take a step back
Damian : Right you are, Kat.
Eleni : This does -
Telemachus : see what did i say?
Kataramene : *watches the two here suspiciously*
Polytropos : ... ooough.
Damian : Sounds like they found a locked box down there.
Eleni : Oh, dear...
Andreas Appolodorus: Careful.
Kataramene : Can you and Aias watch?
Eleni : Do you want me to try?
Leonidas : hmm didn't see that.
Damian : Sure.
Telemachus : go ahead
Damian : Let me go get him.
Kataramene : What's the problem?
Leonidas : don't see anything further
Polytropos : It's a really nasty box.
Telemachus : chest is being difficult
Telemachus : two traps!
Kataramene : What's it doing?
Eleni : I hope the ankh doesn't mind a little acid.
Telemachus : who ever heard of two traps
Polytropos : It's melting.
Kataramene : Fiery?
Leonidas : *watches*
Polytropos : Lightning and sound.
Telemachus : it was more zapy
Damian : *sits on a crate*
Kataramene : Oh.
Eleni : Ah!
Eleni : !
Eleni : This is it!
Telemachus : looks like it
Kataramene : Where is that wizard...
Damian : *calls down* Find anything?
Andreas Appolodorus: Well done.
Polytropos : ... oooh...
Kataramene : Where is the wizard?
Leonidas : Suggest we see it gets back safely, then worry about the thief.
Eleni : This is /definitely/ it.

Harkhebi : Khafra!
Damian : Right there.
Khafra : No, you can't!
Kataramene : There you are.
Polytropos : Maybe if we get it back, he'll follow-
Damian : Can't what?
Polytropos : Aha!
Andreas Appolodorus: Take the other things.
Khafra : You don't understand, you can't!
Kataramene : We just did.
Leonidas : other things?
Library Clerk: Fourd what Sire?
Telemachus : Thanks Damian
Eleni : What we /understand/ is that you brought down a horde of undead on this town.
Kataramene : What he had hidden.
Damian : Yep.
Telemachus : Yes we found it, theif!
Polytropos : We got the light of the moon. Now who are you working for!
Eleni : *Holds up the Light of Amun*
Khafra: Yes. _I_ recovered the ankh from the tomb.
Khafra: But you don't understand!
Harkhebi: You?
Library Clerk: *puts hand to mouth* Oh!
Damian : Well, the tomb wants it back.
Khafra: You are a mage? *to Eleni*
Polytropos : What don't we understand, magician?
Khafra: You know its power!
Kataramene : Or it will devstate this town.
Eleni : No amount of power justifies the deaths you would have caused!
Andreas Appolodorus: Enough of this nonsense.
Khafra: The ankh has the ability to raise human consciousness no a higher plane.
Kataramene : We know we were told it's 'time' is not now.
Telemachus : It's got the power to bring an army of undead down on your town you bloody moron
Leonidas : ..and endless army of undead at that.
Khafra: One town... a high cost, but think of what could be accomplished with the ankh!
Damian : So much for a higher plane.
Library Clerk: *looks from the glowing Ankh to the Mage and back and backs out of the way*
Khafra: It literally could change the course of a civilization! Impact the lives of all mankind!
Harkhebi: This...this is outragous!
Eleni : *Shakes her head* Not if the dead tear down everything you tried to build, stone by stone.
Leonidas : Well I suppose if you can convince your superiors and king of that trade off....
Telemachus : It'll have a hard time doing that if there are undead monsters chasing it all the time
Khafra: You... you could take it with you, to Greece!
Kataramene : They will keep following it too.
Eleni : You are /fortunate/ we came here to save you from your foolishness.
Khafra: Why should the gods decide what we humans have a right to know?
Harkhebi: You kept its existance hidden from us?
Khafra: I had to!
Harkhebi: How could you?
Polytropos : What put this idea in your head, eh?
Damian : No, we're taking it back. I've had enough of undead wandering around and tearing things up.
Harkhebi: Why/
Kataramene : Because they're /gods/?
Harkhebi: ?
Khafra: I found an account of the ankh in one of the old scrolls.
Khafra: It was responsible for most of the glories of the Old Kingdom!
Harkhebi: And you never said anything?
Kataramene : We're wasting time here.
Eleni : I... it is a beautiful thing, but we won't let the dead ravage Egypt while we sail off.
Khafra: The pyramids... the irrigation works... taming the Nile...
Kataramene : IT'll be dawn soon.
Khafra: Then it was taken back!
Harkhebi: How could you do this? Betray us like this?
Khafra: Please! Think of humanity!
Damian : We are.
Khafra: Surely one of you...
Harkhebi: Think of the diservice you did to us...to this Library
Khafra: No... I won't allow it!
Eleni : We are thinking of human lives, at least..
Harkhebi: *eyes widen*
Khafra: No!!!!
Damian : *sighs*

Telemachus : Come quite!
Harkhebi: Take cover!
Eleni : Block the doorway!
Kataramene : *eyes glaze*
Eleni : Kay!
Harkhebi : Khafra! Madness!
Kataramene : Get him!
Library Clerk: *both hands cover mouth*
Eleni : That's Tel, Kat!
Kataramene : And him!
Eleni : You're hitting Tel!
Damian : Stay away from her, you fools!
Harkhebi : No! Stop!
Kataramene : There he is!
Telemachus : move it!
Polytropos : *dodge dodge dodge*
Leonidas : some nice loot here
Eleni : It'll wear off!
Eleni : Just.. stay out of her way.
Kataramene : Where is h..... what?
Polytropos : Easy!

Harkhebi: *shakes head* Madness, madness.
Harkhebi: Khafra... I am so sorry.
Library Clerk: *nods still with hands to mouth*
Eleni : He tricked your mind. It's alright. We got him...
Kataramene : What.... *looks at various wounds and pales*
Leonidas : you may want this *hands key to librarian*
Andreas Appolodorus: Anything on him?
Harkhebi: Thank you.
Kataramene : .. what happened?
Harkhebi: Khafra... I cannot believe it. He let his passion for knowledge corrupt him.
Library Clerk: how do we explain this Sire?
Telemachus : I tried to just take him to the ground, but he smacked his head against the floor
Damian : You were confused.
Harkhebi: You are right, however. The ankh is not meant for us. If it can inspire such madness...
Harkhebi: Would you see it returned?
Eleni : *Nods*
Leonidas : *nods*
Damian : That's the plan.
Eleni : As for how you explain this...
Eleni : You are not guilty of anything. We will let the truth be known.
Library Clerk: *looks expectly*
Kataramene : *looks at the floor*
Andreas Appolodorus: Yes it will be returned.

[Karvon]

Lazyzeus : When we left off, the group had just recovered the fabled ankh that had disturbed the dead in the ancient tomb. They head out into the desert as the sun sets, hoping to beat the undead guardian's deadline... It is not far from dawn when you finally approach the ancient tomb. You see a light shining from atop the temple there.

Kataramene : *has been quiet all the way*
Polytropos : Was it doing that before?
Eleni : ...I don't /think/ so, no.
Andreas Appolodorus: Let's hope that these undead will not bother us.
Damian : I don't remember that.
Kataramene : No.
Polytropos : Oh, there he is.
Eleni : Ah.... how thoughtful.
Damian : Convient.
Leonidas : right
Eleni : Guardian!
Jackal Guardian : YOU BRING THE ANKH.
Eleni : We come to return what was taken.
Damian : *leans on dory* Not as dramatic, but yes.
Jackal Guardian : PLACE IT BEFORE ME.
Eleni : *Approaches, and does so*
Kataramene : *develops a sudden worried frown*
Jackal Guardian : YOU HAVE HONORED YOUR AGREEMENT, SO SHALL I HONOR MINE.
Jackal Guardian : IT IS NOT NOW THE TIME FOR THE LIGHT TO RETURN TO THE EYES OF MEN.
Damian : *looks around* Did we lose Tel in the desert?
Polytropos : I think he went to get the ship ready.
Kataramene : *looks around* He might have wandered off.
Kataramene : ....
Eleni : We shall take your word on that.
Jackal Guardian : SO IT IS WRITTEN. SO IT IS DONE.
Kataramene : What was that?
Polytropos : Ooo!
Damian : I hope so, Pol. I'd rather not have to have him raised again.
Andreas Appolodorus: What now?
Eleni : ...and there he goes.
Eleni : ...I suppose that is the end of it?
Leonidas : Well that was fun

Lazyzeus : Without so much as a word of thanks, the Guardian disappears.

Kataramene : What do we do now?
Polytropos : Now, we...
Eleni : Return to Ra-kedet, I suppose.
Leonidas : Collect our reward.
Polytropos : ... walk back.
Andreas Appolodorus: Yes!
Polytropos : That too.
Eleni : *Sighs* What I wouldn't kill for a bath...
Eleni : We'll be finding grains of sand for months, I swear.
Kataramene : All sorts of places.
Polytropos : Barbarous little town. The sand'll swallow it in five years, you'll see.
Damian : I'm not washing anybody's feet.
Polytropos : Sleep... on ship-
Eleni : I don't know... makes sense to have a port this far west, away from the delta. I imagine it isn't the most reliable artery of trade.

Polytropos : Hang on.
Damian : Hey!
Kataramene : Feet are only the start o...
Eleni : Hm..?
Eleni : Oh!
Leonidas : hmm
Eleni : Who's this...?
Damian : You okay?
Andreas Appolodorus: What happened here?
Sabu : *appears to be near death*
Eleni : *Lets folk have a better look*
Polytropos : Scruffy-looking man. Hey! You alive?
Damian : Help me turn him over.
Kataramene : *bends down and assists*
Polytropos : *roll*
Sabu: *groans*
Damian : Let's lift him up and give him some water. Easy there.
Damian : *sit him up
Polytropos : Ohhhhhhh.
Kataramene : Is that what happened to him?
Leonidas : maybe that's what got him?
Damian : *checks him over*
Eleni : Quite possibly... could he be envenomed?
Andreas Appolodorus: That must be the predator.
Sabu: *the man stirs, sees the scorpion, and tries to roll clear, only to collapse, coughing*
Polytropos : Tricky desert predator. Hold on, man. Here, drink this.
Polytropos : Or, well. See if you can get him to choke this down, Damien.
Kataramene : *stands a watch*
Damian : *takes the flask* Hmm. He looks like he was attached by scorpions. Big ones like the one we just killed.
Leonidas : *looks around*
Eleni : *Serves as human lam*
Eleni : *lamp, even
Damian : *to the man* Easy.
Polytropos : *offers an antidote from his pouch.* The shifty Egyptian merchant said this was sovereign against the poisonous sting of the scorpion.
Eleni : I notice you use plural, there.
Andreas Appolodorus: Do you think he can be transported?
Damian : Hard to tell how many, Eleni.
Damian : *offers the man the potion* Here, drink this slowly.
Sabu: *drinks*
Eleni : Hm. I wonder if he was travelling alone...
Leonidas : all clear for now.
Sabu: Matu... matu natak!
Eleni : I imagine that to be a bad idea in the desert.
Andreas Appolodorus: That would be odd a man alone no camel nothing.
Sabu: *eyes flash open* Matu! Aaahhhh!
Kataramene : What's he saying?
Leonidas : *shrugs*
Polytropos : Greek. Do. You. Speak. Greek?
Damian : *shrugs*
Andreas Appolodorus: Not to mention no water skin.
Eleni : I suppose he could be a desert brigand of some description. Ah...
Sabu: *looks around wildly* Greek? You is Greek?
Kataramene : Are. We are Greek.
Damian : Yes. Here, drink some more water. *offer his skin*
Polytropos : *exaggerated nod*
Eleni : Yes! You can tell because we are not wearing even remotely desert-appropriate garb.
Sabu: *drinks, then tries to get up and fails*
Eleni : Except maybe Andreas.
Damian : Easy.
Andreas Appolodorus: What?
Eleni : Take it easy, now!
Eleni : No rush.
Sabu: *stares at the scorpion corpse* It here, it here! Must... get out of here!
Kataramene : Yes there is. The sun colours the horizon soon.
Damian : It's dead.
Sabu: We open... it is free! The curse!
Eleni : /Quite/ dead.
Eleni : ...what, another one?
Damian : Opened what?
Kataramene : *looks over he shoulder* Open what?
Sabu: *sobbing* It got the others... it will get all us...
Polytropos : Alright, alright... I'm all for the carrying him thing, I don't want to be out here in the sun... aw.
Leonidas : hmm
Sabu: I only want gold... I did not know curse real... *sobbing*
Polytropos : What've you done now?
Eleni : Start from the beginning, please...
Damian : *shakes head* Let's get you back to town, then we can talk.
Sabu: *looks up* The tomb... we went to rob tomb...
Leonidas : wonder if he's a survivor from the group that robbed the tombs?
Kataramene : Could be a different set of tombs.
Damian : Sounds like it, Leo. A tomb would be an attractive target.
Sabu: No! When they find out, they take my hands and feet and tongue for this! And maybe... *eyes travel down to groin and he blanches*
Sabu: It no matter. The Scorpion King will find me. There is no safe for me now.
Leonidas : A different one maybe?
Sabu: *rocks back and forth*
Damian : Where is this tomb?
Leonidas : We could always use a bit more gold, eh?
Kataramene : Scorpion King?
Eleni : That's what it sounds like. What are the odds, though?
Sabu: *points to the south* In canyons.
Polytropos : Egyptians. No respect for their gods.
Eleni : ...higher than you might think, I suppose.
Andreas Appolodorus: Perhaps under our protection you could be spared.
Sabu: We only wanted gold. It was all there, as legend say... but curse... the curse...
Polytropos : *mutter.*
Eleni : Yes. There seems to be a lot of those going around.
Kataramene : We resolve curses, don't we?
Eleni : Is the curse lots of angry scorpions, or is there more to it?
Damian : Seems we're cursed to.
Polytropos : Can't let giant scorpions run around the place, or Ra-Kadet really WILL be eaten up by the sand in a year.
Kataramene : People need rescuing?
Damian : *looks at the horizon* The sun's going to be rising soon, so we had best get somewhere shady.
Eleni : *Sighs* Evidently...
Andreas Appolodorus: Where were they taken?
Eleni : No choice, then.
Polytropos : If you start walking back to town, you might make it. We'll see about the scorpions.
Andreas Appolodorus: You think you can walk?
Damian : Yes, well, we have a few tricks our our own..
Andreas Appolodorus: We go with him?
Polytropos : He's fine.
Kataramene : Hopefully there is shade at these tombs.
Eleni : You heard him. His friends are still there.
Damian : No, his Gods will decide his fate.
Eleni : Being tortured, from the sounds of it.

Leonidas : path leads to some canyons to the south.
Leonidas : big place
Leonidas : saw some snakes in the canyons.
Kataramene : We'll be reaqdy.
Eleni : Snakes! Lovely.
Damian : Big snakes?
Eleni : More venom.
Damian : I have kits.
Leonidas : not so big
Damian : Kat.
Kataramene : Is there anything here not poisonous?
Leonidas : they're to the right
Eleni : Us?
Kataramene : Thank you.
Polytropos : A dead end. Let's not rile 'em.
Eleni : Big one!
Polytropos : *stabby stabby stabby*
Polytropos : *evades the tail* Woah!

Eleni : We might have found the tomb.
Damian : *examines the tail* Like a short sword. I bet it would feel like one too.
Kataramene : Sealed again?
Polytropos : *sigh* Egyptians.
Polytropos : They build cities like mud-villages and tombs like palaces.
Leonidas : hmm looks clear and not locked
Eleni : You can't blame them for having such touchy gods.
Polytropos : Ow ow ow.
Polytropos : Stupid... claws.
Damian : It's just a flesh wound, Pol.
Polytropos : *nod*
Polytropos : What do you think?
Polytropos : Hang on, I see 'em.
Leonidas : trapped
Polytropos : Heh heh heh
Damian : What's what I think.
Kataramene : Good work.
Eleni : Oh! hat works, too.
Leonidas : still trapped
Leonidas : *examines*
Andreas Appolodorus: Not really fair fight but...
Damian : I don't believe in fair fights, Andreas.
Leonidas : that's beyond me
Polytropos : Aha!
Polytropos : I think I see the... yes.
Damian : *cuts off a piece of meat* Hmm.
Andreas Appolodorus: Can't be disqualified if there is no judge.
Damian : Exactly.

Damian : Be careful, I heard soemthing big ahead.
Andreas Appolodorus: Poly if you kill them all you'll have all the glory.
Polytropos : Ow!
Polytropos : What... are these?
Eleni : Urgh...
Andreas Appolodorus: We did not kill this one did we?
Kataramene : One of the captives taken?
Damian : Eleni.
Polytropos : He turned into a man...
Kataramene : That's not a nice thought. *points at the amulet*
Andreas Appolodorus: Something written on this.
Damian : *hands over a rope belt* Any idea what this is?
Eleni : Hrm... I'm fairly certain I have been poisoned.
Eleni : This... the brawler had it, ye -

Polytropos : Aaaagh!
Eleni : Aah...
Polytropos : What did you do!
Kataramene : Augh....
Andreas Appolodorus: Argh
Kataramene : He opened the tomb.
Eleni : That... /would/ explain it..
Polytropos : mrgh...
Kataramene : Pol!
Leonidas : one of you might like that
Eleni : Oh... *Slumps against the wall*
Polytropos : Ooough.
Eleni : You too, hunh?
Polytropos : That tasted very poor.
Kataramene : *staggers, trying to help Poly up, possibly needing more help herself*
Eleni : Tasted? Did you try to /eat/ it?
Polytropos : No... it...
Andreas Appolodorus: A belt? For me?
Polytropos : You can taste the poison at the back of your mouth, like... bleh. *helped*
Damian : Yes. You need something to keep your clothing on, Andreas.
Eleni : I don't know. I just feel... sort of numb. And weak. And woozy.
Kataramene : *promptly sits down*
Leonidas : I could use the bracers, if no one else can.
Eleni : Do you think it's safe to set up camp near here?
Andreas Appolodorus: Somebody should have the witch belt.
Kataramene : Feel weak as a rabbit.
Polytropos : Can... can talk about it. We're pretty stuck in here anyway...
Damian : //Wouldn't risk it because the corpses show up as hostile.
Andreas Appolodorus: Nice bracers.
Leonidas : *looks around*
Damian : *leans on dory looking a little green*
Eleni : Ngh... so I think we can assume those killed were our poor survivor's companions.
Polytropos : Turned into... things.
Damian : Looks that way.
Eleni : Yes. By the... /other/ thing we killed, persumably.
Andreas Appolodorus: If I give back my old belt, could I have some bracers?
Kataramene : Funny spear.
Damian : I think you're the only one that could wear it, Andreas.
Polytropos : Sure, whatever.
Leonidas : I could too
Polytropos : Maybe roll for it or sonething.
Leonidas : Sounds fair enough to me.
Damian : Kat or Tel should have the shield. I could use that smelly belt.
Polytropos : ~Tel has his magic shield. By all means, have a smelly belt.
Leonidas : worthless to me.
Damian : If it helps me get to you when you're down, you won't mind the smell. *grins*
Andreas Appolodorus: Settled?
Polytropos : That really is only good for you, Andreas. You need something to hold up that thing you wear.
Leonidas : so let's roll for the bracers.
Kataramene : Yes, don't let the loincloth fall.
Damian : Like I said. So what about the shield?
Kataramene : *slides the shield over and fails to heft it*
Kataramene : Ugh, everything is so heavy.
Leonidas : *picks out a d20 to roll*
Leonidas : Come on gods, favor me now....
Polytropos : ... come on. Can't stay in here forever... There was water out there, right?
Eleni : *Seems to have dozed off*
Andreas Appolodorus: Here are the bracers but I was just saying I traded a belt for another. I just want to have something like these bracers. Fair enough?
Damian : *starts to drag the bodies and tosses them over the edge*
Polytropos : ... ok, Andreas. Next thing we find like those bracers, they will be yours. Leo, those are all yours.
Leonidas : alright

Lazyzeus : Leonidas rolled an 8, Andreas rolled a 5.

Leonidas : Yeah!!!!

Polytropos : *shakes his head, a weary smile*
Damian : *wipes brow* One more I think.
Leonidas : *happily claps them on*
Damian : *manhandles the scorpion king*
Andreas Appolodorus: Wait a minute I said I want something or I want my other belt back.
Kataramene : *staggers out* Water then.
Leonidas : I didn't take any belts.
Damian : *tosses the body into the pit*
Leonidas : *shrugs*
Damian : Alright. Should be okay to rest.
Polytropos : Wait, the... the belt you had already, or that new, smelly one?
Damian : I have the smelly one.
Andreas Appolodorus: I gave it in exchange of the new one. So I should have something else no?
Polytropos : Didn't you pick it back up again? I'm confused.
Polytropos : Maybe it's the poison.
Kataramene : *leans on the wall heavily*
Damian : If someone has a kit, we should rest back by the entrance before we go back out into the desert.
Kataramene : Can we see if we can buy Andreas something in the town? Wasn't there a vendor of special jewelry there?
Polytropos : Sounds, sounds good.
Eleni : Hrm... *stirs, blinks*
Andreas Appolodorus: I'm hungry.
Polytropos : Cheer up, Andreas, maybe the Egyptians'll give us something.
Eleni : Heeey, don' leave without me, now...
Eleni : *Stumbles in an upward direction*
Leonidas : *Wanders along behind*
Kataramene : *walks slowly, having to force one foot in front of the other.
Damian : *calls back* Looks clear!
Eleni : *Uses staff to support self*
Andreas Appolodorus: Well we defeat minotaurs, undead and scorpions I just want a fair share of shiny things.
Polytropos : Hope that man apreciates this. Assuming he lived.
Damian : *offers his arm to Kat*
Polytropos : *already doin' that! gives Damien an odd look, and nods to Eleni.*
Polytropos : I got this one, man.
Damian : Right. *offers it to Eleni*
Eleni : I'll be alright, jus'... not quite feeling my legs.
Damian : *shrugs*
Damian : Just dont' fall into the pit.
Polytropos : They're worth feeling. Just a little firther now.
Kataramene : *sniff and half stumble*
Polytropos : Aaaalmost... there...
Damian : *peeks head out* Looks like the sun's up. We'd better rest in here.
Eleni : 'Kay..
Kataramene : No shade by the water?
Eleni : *Dumps self on the round*
Damian : Cooler in here.
Leonidas : *helps himself to some rations*
Kataramene : *drops by the fire, exhausted it seemed*
Andreas Appolodorus: That purple belt I got it after we killed some witch in a forest. Remember?
Kataramene : Poison I think. Needed to clear the system.
Lazyzeus : You spend the day in rest, recovering your strength.
Eleni : *Falls asleep again almost instantly, clutching her staff*
Polytropos : Ohhh, yeah. I remember her. That was hers?
Andreas Appolodorus: Feeling much better.
Damian : Sorry. I was too distracted to get it all out properly.
Polytropos : Hm. Don't worry, Andreas. We'll sort something out.
Andreas Appolodorus: By the way did anybody touched that medaillon?
Damian : Nope.
Kataramene : No, it said it was cursed.
Polytropos : Not me...
Polytropos : Curse, eh? Heh.
Andreas Appolodorus: Just asking.
Damian : Though with that thing dead, the curse might be lifted. Not that I'm going to put that theory to the test.
Polytropos : Who'd buy it?
Kataramene : It looked like it was gold but ... is it worth it?
Damian : That too.
Eleni : Hrm... *Rubs eyes*
Eleni : Are we leaving...?
Kataramene : To town.
Polytropos : *bathes feet.*
Damian : *refills water skin*
Polytropos : Ohhhh better.
Damian : hey!
Eleni : Alright... I think my legs remember how to walk, now.
Polytropos : What?
Andreas Appolodorus: Yes?
Damian : Hmph.
Kataramene : Is it cool enough for a swim?
Damian : Good thing I got my water before you polluted it, Pol.
Polytropos : Heh heh.
Polytropos : It's pretty good.
Leonidas : looks too shallow for anything but wading.
Damian : Nothing worse than taking a drink and tasting old feet.
Kataramene : *dips head under the falls and fills canteen from that*
Polytropos : Onward!
Eleni : Or backwards, I suppose.

Lazyzeus : The sun is setting as you head back to the town.

Kataramene : This shield is nice.
Damian : Hopefully we won't run into any more scorpions on our way back.
Polytropos : Looks a lot lighter.
Kataramene : It is, but seems stronger.
Polytropos : What are they going to think in Argos of all these foreign shields.
Eleni : It'll make us look exotic!
Kataramene : That we're alive?
Damian : "They're not dead yet!"
Andreas Appolodorus: You are wearibg too much makes you walk slowly.
Polytropos : There's a place for exotic. The Barbarian quarter!
Kataramene : I can move well enough in what I wear.
Eleni : Where all the interesting people live, not coincidentally.
Polytropos : True!
Andreas Appolodorus: Water.
Damian : It's probably stagnant, Andreas.
Eleni : Don't tell me you forgot to restock at the waterfall.
Damian : Unless it's an underground spring.
Polytropos : Coming in!
Telemachus : *getting a drink from the well*

Damian : Hey! It's that guy we rescued.
Sabu: Honored sir!
Damian : You look better.
Kataramene : Augh, I need a bath all over again now.
Polytropos : The crazy egyptian! You made it.
Sabu: Thanks to you. I am in your debt.
Leonidas : Indeed
Sabu: Did you... the curse... find my friends?
Eleni : Oh, Tel! Hm..
Damian : It was our pleasure. We have news about your friends...
Leonidas : we did
Eleni : ...we ran into some trouble on our way back.
Telemachus : Ahh you're back, everything went smoothly?
Eleni : Not /quite/
Damian : Yes, we believe they were transformed into something else.
Polytropos : Yeah. Sorry about that.
Eleni : Could you believe we stumbled unto a completely unrelated cursed tomb?
Sabu: Did you find... the gold?
Kataramene : Oh, it's you. *sympathetic look*
Eleni : This one had scorpions. Lots of them.
Telemachus : ...what?
Polytropos : Cursed gold, man!
Damian : Gold? Whatever gold is in there can stay there.
Eleni : Had, mind.
Sabu: *shakes head* You are right. So it is still there, then, in the tomb?
Eleni : I know, right? You can't walk ten paces without running into a new curse here, it seems.
Telemachus : All you had to do was take the amun thing and drop it off...
Eleni : And we did that!
Polytropos : Yes, yes it is. Make of that what you will.
Kataramene : Err... no.
Eleni : We just ran into a man dying in the desert on our way back.
Kataramene : The tomb is still cursed.
Telemachus : well are we done now? can we leave or...
Sabu: I am ever grateful.
Telemachus : or do we have a whole other curse to fix?
Sabu: Could you... ah, I hate to ask, but can you spare a few coins for a man cursed with ill luck?
Eleni : It's been taken care of.

Damian : Tel!
Andreas Appolodorus: What other curse?
Eleni : Unless we stumble across a /third/ curse on our way back to the ship.
Polytropos : Seems to me you made your own bad luck, friend.
Damian : Third time's the charm.
Eleni : Though we should report to the governor, I think.
Kataramene : It's not wise to rob the places of the gods.
Polytropos : Here.
Telemachus : Right well I've been here getting it ready and nothing curse like happened
Kataramene : Take up sailing. Perhaps earn a living that way.
Telemachus : but i've turned my back for five minutes, so you never know
Andreas Appolodorus: Yes let us report.
Polytropos : Might fetch a few coins.
Eleni : Quite. I shall keep my ears open for the cries of the damned nd such.
Polytropos : Or stab a few scorpions, who knows. Fair winds!
Damian : I thought you got lost in the desert, Tel. Good to know you were here the whole time.
Polytropos : We are the heroes of the hour! And we should tell the king's servant so.
Eleni : Pharoah's.
Kataramene : We should.
Telemachus : Why would I just wonder off into the desert?
Polytropos : They make up strange names for everything.
Kataramene : Oh, we found a shield Tel. We'll have to see who can get the best from it.
Damian : *shrugs* Could have gotten lost following us.
Eleni : And we don't? Basileus that, basileus this...
Polytropos : A king is a king!
Telemachus : It'll have to be pretty impressive to beat the one I've got

Harkhebi: Ah, see, my lord governor, they return!
Imhotep: Greetings!
Damian : *unbuckles the belt and puts it in his pack*
Eleni : Governor Imotep. Good day.
Eleni : The guardian of the western tomb has been placated.
Damian : *aves*
Imhotep: Most excellent.
Andreas Appolodorus: Good wind.
Harkhebi: *looks at everyone* Did you all return?
Imhotep: When there was no attack we believed your mission a success, but when you remained absent, we began to worry.
Kataramene : We did, and the holy creature is satisfied.
Eleni : Oh, yes. We ran into another spot of trouble on our way back...
Harkhebi: Excellant! Very well done indeed!
Polytropos : We happened to quiet the defiled tomb of the Scorpion King on our way back. We've got to stay in practice.
Eleni : You certainly have no shortage of horrible curses in this land, I must say.
Damian : *w to Tel* You missed a good fight, Tel.
Kataramene : You should be safe from the undead, but it /might/ be an idea to stop people raiding tombs. IT's causing no end of trouble.
Imhotep: The Scorpion King? Why would you go to such an accursed place?
Polytropos : There were scorpions coming out of it.
Polytropos : *pause.*
Kataramene : *nods*
Polytropos : No, you've got a point.
Eleni : But now you have /two/ fewer curses to worry about. All's well that ends well, I suppose.
Imhotep: We pass edicts and inflict harsh punishments of tomb robbers, but human nature is ever seeped in greed, it seems.
Imhotep: Indeed, and we are in your debt.
Telemachus : Maybe you should stop covering your dead guys in gold?
Telemachus : just a thought..
Damian : Or desperation.
Imhotep: I have already spoken to the guild of merchants, and we will be sending a delegation to your city of Argos.
Polytropos : Heh. Well, Argos probably thanks you!
Eleni : *Nods* Our countrymen will be overjoyed.
Imhotep: Our beliefs about the afterlife are different than yours.
Imhotep: And I believe that there was a matter of a reward...
Imhotep: *claps hands*
Kataramene : *looks*
Pharoah's Elite: *comes out lugging several large sacks*
Eleni : Indeed. Our ferryman's salary is much less opulent, I suppose. Ah...
Imhotep: On behalf of the pharoah, may his reign last forever, please accept this small token of our appreciation.
Harkhebi: Very generous indeed my Lord
Pharoah's Elite: *the guard puts down the sacks, which fall with a loud CLINK*
Pharoah's Elite: *he distributes smaller bags, one for each of you...*
Eleni : Indeed. We thank you sincerely.
Polytropos : Hurrah! Wait, what is it?
Kataramene : Coins?
Polytropos : Hurrah!
Andreas Appolodorus: More coins for the purse I suppose.
Andreas Appolodorus: Thank you.
Damian : More kits for me.
Harkhebi: You would prefer bars?
Polytropos : Coins are fine.
Leonidas : *smiles*
Damian : No, coins are perfectly fine, sir. Thank you.
Polytropos : We can carry all this easy. We're, ahaha, talented people.
Telemachus : Thankyou!
Kataramene : Enough to go and take a bath?
Harkhebi: *wide smile* Very well then!
Damian : *takes the pouch and nods at the guard*
Imhotep: May we always remain friends with the good people of Argos.
Polytropos : Indeed!
Andreas Appolodorus: I can buy a hundred camels.
Kataramene : Should you need heroes again you could always send word.
Imhotep: We shall!
Damian : May the sun always shine on you and the rains ever fall.
Eleni : May all the gods smile on this friendship.
Harkhebi: Indeed! You have our thanks and I hope you will speak well of us in future talks with your leaders
Imhotep: The favorable tide comes with the dawn, I will send word to your ship to be ready. And provide any supplies you need for your journey.
Eleni : Thank you.
Polytropos : Thank you! It's a long way, to, uh...
Polytropos : Uh...
Imhotep: *nods*

Lazyzeus : *the guards and the official file out*

Kataramene : The jungles?
Eleni : Our stay here has been very interesting, but it has been a long time we have been to Argos.
Eleni : Hm, well... we /could/ head straight to Thrace, I suppose, but Argos is more or less on the way.
Harkhebi: Should you need any of the knowledge of the Library ere you go, please visit.
Polytropos : Right. Off we go!
Eleni : We shall consult with the captain.
Damian : Oh, we certainly will.
Andreas Appolodorus: Yes we may spend some gold in your city before we depart for colder lands.
Kataramene : With the dawn. Right now I plan to negotiate access to a bath.
Leonidas : Would like to visit the merchants before we sail, now that I have some gold to spend.
Polytropos : This is enough to buy a house or something!
Telemachus : The library had some interesting magical trinkets..
Polytropos : We could buy Maniteia!
Eleni : Hm. The grand purse was... about the equal of 4000 drachmae or so, I think?

Egyptian Merchant: Welcome to Ra-Kedet! City of mystery, of enchantment. And the finest merchandise this side of the river Jordan! On sale today! Come on down!
Telemachus: Ah... okay.
Damian : *sniffs belt* Hmm. Maybe if I wrapped lavendar around it...
Leonidas: Ah... okay.

Lazyzeus : You are given accomodations in the finest hostel in the city, so your only remaining arrangements are to secure whatever supplies you need before your ship departs in the morning.

Eleni : *Assumes these finest accomodations includes baths, happily*
Polytropos : Maybe Andreas'd like one of these amulets.
Eleni : I can't carry this stuff around, you know!
Kataramene : Or something.
Polytropos : Stuff?
Eleni : *At the shield Kataramene is trying to push on her*
Kataramene : It's just no one gives me a good price. Never mind!
Harkhebi: Ah, my dear, I have completed my research of your odd metal tube.
Polytropos : Aha!
Eleni : Hand me these things at the market! The scribe is hardly going to be interested, I think - ah.
Harkhebi: When you have a moment, I am at your disposal.
Eleni : Mister Harkhebi. I was just planning to see you about that.
Eleni : Have you learned anything?
Harkhebi: Yes. The spell of listening is just a minor cantrip, an adjunct to the device's primary purpose.
Eleni : *Nods* That much, I had surmised.

Harkhebi: It has a potent spell that allows it to transport something put inside to a specific place designated during its creation.
Harkhebi: But look. The markings on the interior... the device is Asian in origin. Perhaps Media, or one of the successor states to the Hittite Empire.
Eleni : Hm...
Andreas Appolodorus: May be they got golden bracers here.
Kataramene : *looks entirely blank at that information*
Harkhebi: Yes, I would definitely say this device was crafted in Asia.
Eleni : Its enchantment could not be repurposed then, I assume?
Harkhebi: As to your friend and his transportation... I have studied the device and cannot find the reason for that. The magic should not be strong enough to transport a man.
Library Clerk: Welcome to the great library of Ra-Kedet. Would you seek knowledge, petitioner?
Telemachus: Yes.
Harkhebi: Hmm, an intriguing idea.
Harkhebi: What did you have in mind?
Eleni : Strange arts indeed.

Eleni : Well, a device that can transport one instantly to a defined location would be invaluable. If we could return to Argos any time we wished, instead of travelling the seas for weeks...
Damian : *roots through pack* So that's three camping kits and eight more healing kits. I should be good for awhile.
Harkhebi: That is true! It would require a great deal of magical power to accomplish.
Damian : Eh? What's this about transport?
Eleni : It was an optimistic thought, though. And the device's range is probably more limited than that.
Eleni : We were talking about the object that somehow took Pol from Knossos to the labyrinth.
Harkhebi: Well, the range for theoretical teleportation is almost unlimited. Why, I once knew a mage who posited that it could be used to travel to the surface of the moon, what a strange notion...
Damian : Ah. If it had the range, it would be very handy.
Damian : Why would anyone want to go there?
Harkhebi: I will send my notes to your ship before you go. Perhaps it will help with your studies, and maybe the mages of your city and unravel that secret.
Eleni : Hah. The moon? I suppose the difficulty there would be returning...
Eleni : Thank you!
Eleni : That will give me something to do on the long journey, if nothing else.
Harkhebi: *shrugs* I suspect the gods would be upset if mortals could travel to their realms at a whim.
Kataramene : There's nothing here I really need.
Andreas Appolodorus: Ah ah.
Harkhebi: I have already arranged for the trade delegation to include the finest products of the library when it leaves for Argos.
Polytropos : Great!
Harkhebi: So you will always have access to our lore!
Damian : Ah, good. That will certainly come in handy.
Andreas Appolodorus: * Put on the golden bracers with a big smile on his face *
Eleni : The gift of knowledge is the greatest of all. Or so my master was always fond of saying. *Smiles*
Harkhebi: A wise man.
Polytropos : Looks like we're ready!
Damian : He taught Eleni right.
Harkhebi: Fare you well, Greeks. I am so pleased that you are not the barbarians that the stories speak of.
Andreas Appolodorus: I can give gold for the one buying kits.
Eleni : For the most part. Many were the days I caused him to despair...
Kataramene : I'm going to see if the accomodation includes anyway to get thoroughly clean.
Eleni : Thank you, and farewell!
Telemachus : You can always take a bath in the harbour.
Damian : Only if you're the one fishing her out, Tel.
Eleni : Because the sea is so terribly clean.
Kataramene : *humphs*

Lazyzeus : You conclude your business at the library. The night passes quickly, the quarters are excellent, and the dawn finds you returning to the harbor and your waiting ship...

Damian : *chuckles*
Polytropos : Heh.
Eleni : So!
Eleni : Argos, or straight on to the next crisis?
Kataramene : Argos.
Polytropos : See what the wind says.

[Karvon]

Lazyzeus : After several weeks at sea, your ship returns to Argos. You had discussed going straight on to Thrace, but Captain Zeno refuses. He seems to have a strong aversion to traveling to the northern Aegean, but does not elaborate. It is a glorious summer day when your craft finally bobs into the harbor at Argos, the familiar outlines of the city greeting your arrival.

Polytropos : Argos!
Eleni : Phew!
Eleni : It is good to return, I admit.
Damian : *holds stomach and mutters* I'm glad those herbs worked...
Polytropos : Aah, what a day to return. The sun is shining, our hearts are light.
Kataramene: At last. Sea water is a terror for the complexion.
Captain Zeno: Poseidon takes mercy upon you, it would seem.
Eleni : We must have done something to impress.
Kataramene: You should give him an offering!
Damian : Hearts, yes. Stomachs, no.
Captain Zeno: I never fail to do so.
Polytropos : We've done him a few favours.
Eleni : That was a while ago, though.
Polytropos : Gods have long memories!
Wealthy Citizen: All these strange products! How exotic!
Kataramene: Do they?
Polytropos : Hey, look! Cretans!
Eleni : You know how gods get when you start paying too much attention to /other/ gods.
Kataramene: Oh good.
Polytropos : I suppose the Egyptians'll be along on the next tide.
Polytropos : Right, where to?
Eleni : Likely. Straight to the council, then?
Polytropos : Could do that.
Kataramene: Then consider where.
Leonidas : get the news and our reward.

Eleni : Greetings, elders!
Polytropos : Not sure if there's a reward, we're not finished yet...
Strato: Ah, look what the tide has brought in!
Kataramene: Ther reward for work well done is usually more work.
Leonidas : *smiles*
Eleni : We return from Crete and Egypt.
Pelopidas: Indeed, we'd thought you perhaps eaten by sea monsters.
Lamachus: Not I!
Lamachus: When I spoke to the Cretan delegation, I knew you would be back in triumph.
Eleni : No sea monsters, no. Plenty of other things that tried to eat us, though.
Telemachus : heh we'd poison them
Kataramene: The sea was remarkably kind to us, though others had a try.
Polytropos : We bring tidings!
Kataramene: We are not sure how much the Cretans will have said.
Strato: King Ideomenus sent us a pleasant letter that spoke highly of you. You went on to Egypt?
Leonidas : *nods*
Kataramene: Where we found more troubles.
Lamachus: Their merchants have already set up business in the city!
Eleni : Yes! A delegation from Ra-Kedet is no doubt on their way as we speak.
Pelopidas: The world is full of troubles in this age.
Kataramene: This is true, but these were of a hidden nature.
Strato: Ah, so you were able to help the Egyptians then?
Eleni : A small matter of an ancient relic and a curse of walking dead. Quite unpleasant, but dealt with.
Lamachus: Curses, how unpleasant.
Pelopidas: I trust you resolved this curse, and brought no taint of it here?
Eleni : Egyptian gods are especially prone to them, it seems.
Polytropos : Yyy...yyyyyeeeeaahhhhhyes.
Polytropos : No trace here.
Lamachus: I would be easily riled as well if I had the head of a bird or a cat.
Damian : So it would seem.
Eleni : I should hope not. The relic that was its cause was returned to its rightful place.
Strato: Now, Lamachus, let us show respect.
Strato: *to Eleni* Good show!
Polytropos : No, really. Their gods are crazy. But the important thing is -
Polytropos : There are men from Asia at work.
Kataramene : *nods at that*
Eleni : Yes. You received our message, I assume?
Pelopidas: Asia, that backwards mess?
Strato: *nods* There cult in the Labyrinth, you mean.
Kataramene : There were signs in Ra Kadet too.
Eleni : Indeed.
Pelopidas: Bah. No significant civilization will ever come out of Asia, mark my words.
Eleni : And... that is merely speculation, Katara.
Kataramene : Less clear, yes, but there are a lot of coincidences. Perhaps too many to be waived.
Eleni : *Tilts head* Do the Hittities and Phyrgians not count?
Strato: My martial companion's words aside, we've taken your message seriously and sent on word to the other poleis in warning, just in case.
Pelopidas: Barbarians.
Kataramene : He did say "significant".
Lamachus: *aside to Pelopidas* Didn't the Hittites discover ironworking?
Pelopidas: Quiet, you.
Damian : A tiny acorn can become a towering oak.
Eleni : *Nods* As if there were not enough to be wary of in these times.
Strato: Well. Foreign plotting aside, it sounds like you have completed two successful diplomatic missions.
Strato: The city is in your debt.
Kataramene : Our kind of diplomacy, but yes.
Polytropos : The third remains.
Pelopidas: Aye, if news from Thrace was not so dire.
Polytropos : Oh.
Kataramene : It worsens?
Strato: Indeed. The latest messages are most worrying.
Eleni : We feared as much. We thought perhaps to head straight north, but captain Zeno seemed quite opposed to the notion...
Strato: Apparently King Pharos is under full assault from an invasion of beast-men that have emerged from the region's swamps.
Polytropos : Yikes.
Pelopidas: He has suffered several defeats.
Polytropos : I told you all that would get bad.
Damian : *frowns*
Lamachus: And the ships, tell them about the ships.
Strato: I was about to.
Kataramene : Is there a reason known why the Captain would not take us there swiftly?
Damian : *snorts* Yet we were outvoted, Pol.
Strato: Apparently there have been some reports as well of ships that have abruptly vanished in the northern Aegean.
Kataramene : It would have become worse in both of the other locations.
Pelopidas: Bah, pirates, most likely.
Lamachus: Some say sea monsters.
Pelopidas: Bah.
Eleni : Vanished? Hm.
Strato: It hasn't helped things, certainly.
Polytropos : We're... uh, well, we were favoured by Poseidon.
Kataramene : Presumed sunk?
Strato: No one knows.
Eleni : Don't presume, Pol.
Damian : Pirates may not leave survivors to tell of their exploits.
Strato: But we were putting together a humanitarian mission, supplies and the like for the King. We were going to send it north in a few days on the oceangoing barge Sea Dragon, under Captain Simonides.
Strato: So your arrival is quite fortuitous.
Polytropos : Oh, right.
Polytropos : We can go on that.
Eleni : And guard for any.... pirates.
Strato: We're just waiting on a few more caravans of supplies from the outlying settlements.
Strato: Yes, indeed!
Lamachus: Tell them about the house.
Kataramene : *nods looking eager*
Polytropos : We'll be bringing relief for the people as well as some good Argosian heroism!
Strato: Yes, yes, I was getting to that!
Strato: I have good news and bad news for you, heroes of Argos.
Strato: The bad news is that the house we let you use has been sold. You can no longer stay there.
Damian : *raises eyebrow* Argosian heroism?
Eleni : *Raises brow*
Kataramene : *sighs a little*
Eleni : A shame, though it was rather cramped anyway, I must say...
Lamachus: The good news is that we have a large villa overlooking the harbor for you!
Strato: The least we can do for our noble heroes.
Damian : Does it have a larger kitchen?
Eleni : ...and that sounds much less cramped, as it happens. How fortuitous!
Kataramene : *breaks into a grin* Do we have servants?
Leonidas : ...and a staff?
Telemachus : You're too kind
Eleni : Just /having/ a kitchen would be a step up, I think.
Lamachus: Indeed, it has every amenity! And two slaves to maintain it.
Damian : True.
Lamachus: They are owned by the city, but will remain with the house as long as you live there.
Kataramene : *pause* What kind of slaves?
Lamachus: A man and a woman, both quite tame.
Lamachus: If they are not sufficient to meet your needs, we can make arrangements for additional staff.
Kataramene : We'll ... take a look at them.
Eleni : Its comforts will be welcome, I'm sure, after so much time on sea and sand.
Strato: Why don't you take them there, Lamachus. They've had a long journey, and it will be a few days yet before the ship is ready to sail.
Damian : *bows head* Thank you, sirs.
Kataramene : Oh indeed, we are extremely grateful.
Pelopidas: Hmph. A cot and a hearth is sufficient for me.
Lamachus: Of course. Shall we?
Polytropos : This is great!
Kataramene : Please!
Eleni : Indeed.
Damian : The open sky and a bedroll are sufficient to me, sir, but neither includes a bath or a kitchen.
Eleni : *Bows to the rest of the council*
Leonidas : and do we have any coin for various other expenses?
Strato: Come ere you go, and I will update your credentials for King Pharos.
Kataramene : Thank you.
Lamachus: The house includes some small estates that will produce a modest income.
Kataramene : *low* We've a /house/ Leo!
Lamachus: It is self-sufficient at least.
Leonidas : *shrugs*
Polytropos : Also great!
Lamachus: This way.

Eleni : Oh my. I thought you'd implied the villa was still property of the city?
Kataramene : But it has estates?
Polytropos : What other news? Wait, this isn't it, is it?
Lamachus: But as long as you are there, you have full access to its product.
Eleni : I see.
Lamachus: Think of it as a long-term lease.
Polytropos : Oh, thank the gods.
Eleni : ...yes, this is /much/ roomier.
Polytropos : Wow.
Telemachus : *whistles through his teeth*
Lamachus : Epistor!
Damian : *looks around*
Eleni : Hm, a bit bare for an entrance hall.
Kataramene : It's huge.... *open mouthed*
Eleni : Oh, hello.
Epistor: Yes, my lord?
Polytropos : It's the size of Manitea!
Lamachus: These are the new residents I spoke of.
Polytropos : Hello!
Kataramene : *looks around, entranced*
Epistor: Ah, welcome, masters, mistresses.
Damian : Our farm could fit in just this room alone.
Epistor: Be welcome.
Leonidas : *nods*
Polytropos : We will be!
Eleni : *Chuckles* The hall is larger than our old farmhouse, at least. And thank you, Epistor.
Epistor: And this must be your personal slave?
Epistor: Shall I send him on to the kitchens?
Leonidas : Indeed
Damian : Oh, no.
Leonidas : *laughs*
Eleni : *Heh* Oh, why does that keep happening?
Andreas Appolodorus: Hm
Epistor: Oh, a thousand pardons.
Kataramene : *covers a smirk*
Damian : He'll clear out the larder if he does that.
Telemachus : Because he refuses to wear clothes
Eleni : That was a rhetorical question!
Lamachus: Epistor, you can give them the tour a bit later. If I could have a moment?
Telemachus : Well then it was a rhetorical answer.
Epistor: Of course. Welcome, welcome.
Eleni : It doesn't work that way, Tel...

Lamachus: There was one other matter I wanted to discuss with you.
Damian : What if there were no rhetorical questions?
Eleni : *Ahem* Ah. Yes?
Lamachus: You have heard of our humble Games?
Damian : What? Oh. Go ahead.
Kataramene : Of course!
Polytropos : We missed out on the last set.
Lamachus: The next is in two days. A useful distraction, given all that is happening in the world.
Andreas Appolodorus: Oh yes let us do that.
Lamachus: As you know, I sort of represent the mercantile interest in the city.
Lamachus: Of late, we have grown somewhat... concerned.
Lamachus: Have you heard of Eumenius?
Eleni : Hm. And when does the supply ship leave...?
Kataramene : The trainer of gladiators, yes?
Lamachus: If all goes well, the last of the supply shipments should be here in three or four days.
Eleni : Eu... I think we might have met him, yes?
Lamachus: *nods at Kataramene* HE has a small stable of warriors.
Polytropos : Sounds... familiar...
Lamachus: They have been doing _very_ well of late.
Eleni : And that is a problem?
Lamachus: Well, most of the major houses like to sponsor warriors. It's sort of a hobby among the elite.
Lamachus: Eumenius, he keeps to himself. He and his warriors spend all their time at his villa outside town. They don't socialize, they don't drink in the taverns.
Lamachus: He says he follows the "Spartan method."
Damian : Ah. Well, Kat, Pol, Tel, and Andreas are our finest warriors.
Lamachus: Some of us... we are becoming suspicious.
Damian : *looks at Pol* Well, maybe just Kat, Tel, and Andreas.
Kataramene : Yes, but I wonder if he might be doing what Eleni and yourself aid us with and not telling.
Andreas Appolodorus: Fool play you think?
Lamachus: Magic is forbidden in the Games, and his men are tested for spells, but somehow they manage to defeat all comers.
Polytropos : They're all shaved minotaurs, or something...?
Lamachus: Something...
Polytropos : Hnh.
Eleni : I suppose they might just be quite good at what they do....
Kataramene : *purses her lips* Should we investigate?
Polytropos : Aright. What're you asking?
Kataramene : We could seek to join his "stables".
Damian : There are herbs and other medicines one could take to boost one's strength that would be very difficult to detect.
Lamachus: Victory equals wealth, and status. I don't want a man like this Eumenius in a position of power in Argos.
Lamachus: I would like you to enter the next Games as independents, and see what you can find.
Telemachus : Do you think they're cheating somehow? what could they be doing that is agianst the rules of the competition?
Eleni : I am not sure how much we will discover as rivals.
Lamachus: I will pay your entry fee, anonymously, of course.
Andreas Appolodorus: So be it.
Lamachus: I don't know what they are doing, thus I need you.
Lamachus: I leave the details of the investigation to you.
Kataramene : We can do this, and if we are in the arena compound we might discover something.
Eleni : ...well, not me, I suppose, as I don't have terribly much to offer if magic is off the table.
Lamachus: I would start by seeking out Peleus, he's the organizer of the Games.
Lamachus: Perhaps some of you could enter as contestants, while the others can investigate in other ways.
Eleni : I could always be your trainer. I should find a whip somewhere...
Polytropos : Yeah, we could do that...
Kataramene : If the games are in two days we will need to do this quickly.
Lamachus: Every good stable has a sponsor, and a trainer.
Damian : I'll help, Eleni. We should be able to sniff out what's going on here.
Lamachus: Well, as it happens you already have a villa. People will already be curious about you.
Lamachus: The Council cannot take a public role in this, unless wrongdoing is proven.
Eleni : Hm! Perhaps I'd be more convincing as a wealthy noble sponsor, then.
Polytropos : Aaah, right.
Kataramene : *preens a little* We can play on being persons of note.
Lamachus: Well, you already have a reputation, with the quarry business earlier.
Polytropos : Of course!
Damian : I'll be the trainer then. Unless you'd rather take that part, Pol.
Lamachus: Though you have been gone long enough that your specific talents will be largely unknown.
Polytropos : I can fight, Damian!
Lamachus: Well. I will leave it to you. Enjoy the villa.
Eleni : Thank you.
Kataramene : Do females frequently enter in the games?
Telemachus : farewell
Damian : Then it's settled. Eleni is our sponser and I'm the trainer. Aias can be your sparring partner.
Lamachus: It is not unheard of, but rare.
Kataramene : *nods a little*
Andreas Appolodorus: Right.
Eleni : We will attract attention no matter how we do things, hm? As usual.
Damian : Speaking of which, I'll need to get some straw for a bed for him.
Kataramene : *looks around eagerly again* Can we explore?
Eleni : Yes! *Grins*
Polytropos : We should look round, yes.
Telemachus : Maybe this place has a stables you can keep him in.

Epistor: Hello, my lords.
Kataramene : Storage...
Polytropos : Oh, there's the slaves. Hey! How are you?
Damian : He's not a horse, Tel.
Eleni : Oh, Epistor! The councilman mentioned something about a tour, earlier...
Epistor: Very well, thank you, master.
Telemachus : I had noticed that.
Damian : Besides, I'd rather have him close at hand in case I need his aid.
Epistor: This is Melina. She is a barbarian from Macedonia. Her Greek is not great but she is a very good cook.
Kataramene : *eyes Melina and sniffs*
Andreas Appolodorus: So how many of us will join the fights?
Eleni : Hello, Melina.
Epistor: Come here, Melina.
Damian : That and he's a friend.
Epistor: I focus on running the household.
Epistor: If there is anything at all you need, just let one of us know.
Eleni : Did you serve the previous inhabitants as well?
Epistor: Yes. I have been here for twenty-five years.
Epistor: Would you like a tour of the house?
Eleni : Of course!
Damian : Yes we would.
Epistor: Come then.
Eleni : Oooh!
Damian : That chair looks comfortable, Eli.
Epistor: There is a small selection of scrolls and bound folios in papyrus.
Polytropos : Why do we need one of those?
Epistor: Some people find knowledge useful, master.
Eleni : What sort of collection are we talking about, here?
Kataramene : Let me see!
Polytropos : Huh.
Epistor: Just a few of the classics. Homer, some of the Athenian plays.
Damian : Though we may be fighting over it.
Polytropos : People won't keep coming to use it, will they?
Kataramene : *loses interest when it's revealed as a study*
Epistor: All of the household records are kept here as well.
Eleni : Hm. I might have to add to it.
Eleni : It's a personal library, Pol.
Epistor: You may use any of it as you see fit, masters.
Eleni : Not like the one in Ra-kedet.
Polytropos : ... weird.
Epistor: Come, let me show you the courtyard.
Damian : Epistor, can we have another chair delivered? The one isn't enough.
Kataramene : *shrugs at Pol*
Epistor: As you wish, master.
Damian : Thank you and you dont' need to call me master. Damien is fine.
Polytropos : We have a tree!
Eleni : Not a bad place for Aias, maybe.
Damian : Yes, he would enjoy it out here.
Polytropos : Nice to see it without bobbing up and down.
Epistor: The former occupants enjoyed taking their meals out here on occasion.
Eleni : It /is/ a lovely view.
Polytropos : Who were they?
Kataramene : *leans on the ballustrade*
Epistor: They were a family of traders in wine.
Epistor: They moved on to Corinth when the old father died.
Damian : I can see sitting out here and reading.
Eleni : I see.
Leonidas : Might want to get a gate installed on the back entrance, or anyone or thing can wander in here.
Eleni : Oh! We should probably mention..
Kataramene : Not with Aias about.
Eleni : Damian has a bear.
Epistor: *eyebrow raised* Ah, I see.
Eleni : A big bear. He's quite friendly, though.
Damian : He's only deadly to our enemies.
Eleni : So please don't be alarmed if you see it wandering about.
Polytropos : We've got a jetty!
Kataramene : We have?
Polytropos : It's just behind me!
Kataramene : Ooo. Can we swim?
Telemachus : In the *harbour*??
Polytropos : You can swim any time, Kat.
Epistor: The ladies might prefer the small room to my left.
Eleni : *Nods* How many beds and chambers?
Epistor: Seven beds.
Damian : Looks like 7 and 2.
Eleni : Five and two.
Eleni : Which is quite remarkably perfect.
Epistor: Here is the common room and the baths.
Damian : There's another, smaller chamber, Eli.
Leonidas : Geeze a place this size and we have to share rooms?
Epistor: We were briefed on your needs, mistress.
Kataramene : A proper bed?
Eleni : I know, I know!
Epistor: Individual rooms? *chuckles* Are you royalty?
Polytropos : You can sleep in the library if you want.
Damian : Or outside with Aias.
Polytropos : ... not bad.
Eleni : *Chuckles* If you want more privacy, we could hang curtains. Oh! A bath!
Epistor: That is everything. Should you need anything, just clap your hands.
Polytropos : Hello... *nods and smiles at Melina.*
Eleni : Which Andreas is already monopolizing, I see.
Kataramene : *gapes* A real bath? I was thinking we'd have to swim.
Polytropos : ... timid sort, is she?
Epistor: I hope you enjoy the house.
Eleni : I have no doubt we shall! Thank you, Epistor.
Polytropos : Cheers!
Telemachus : thanks.
Andreas Appolodorus: Good place.
Leonidas : *shrugs* a lot of wide wasted space.
Damian : There's a bathing robe in the cabinet.
Eleni : Which we could put to use, if you can think of anything to use it on.
Polytropos : *throws his cloak somewhere*
Kataramene : *sniffs and glares at Pol*
Polytropos : Anyway!
Damian : *unbuckles his belt* I'll see if I can put this somewhere so it doesn't smell until I need it.
Polytropos : Fighting. The Games!
Eleni : Yes. Say we take an hour or two to get ourselves freshened up, and then we can head to the arena and sign ourselves up..
Andreas Appolodorus: We can train here it's big enough.
Polytropos : Facing whatever ogres are ruling the arena.
Eleni : Or I'll sign you up, I suppose, if I'm to be your sponsor.
Polytropos : *nodnod.*
Damian : Did anybody see the kitchen?
Eleni : The councilor didn't mention entrance fees, I noticed....
Polytropos : I thought he did.
Damian : He said he would pay them.
Telemachus : He did, he said he'd pay them
Eleni : Ah, no. Episotor seems to have skipped over servant's quarters.
Eleni : Oh, right.
Andreas Appolodorus: One sponsor is enough?
Leonidas : I think I'll pass on this fighting thing, I'm not much interested in hand to hand combat with some oaf in armor.
Eleni : We're not to be linked to the council, Andreas.
Polytropos : Anyway. I reckon e, Tel, Kat and Andreas can look about on the inside...
Eleni : We are to be seen as independant agents.
Polytropos : Wait, Leo!
Leonidas : yeah?
Polytropos : See, while some of us are on the inside as fighters, some of us can be looking on the outside and seeing if there's magic going on.
Polytropos : *nodnod*
Polytropos : See if you can get a peek into what these ogres are doing that makes them so strong.
Eleni : The councilor seemed to believe magic was already ruled out.
Leonidas : I'm not a mage, I wouldn't know a spelll being cast if I saw it.
Damian : I found the servants' quarters, Eli.
Andreas Appolodorus: I'm not the sneakiing type I fight in the open.
Eleni : Well, that's where /I/ come in, you silly oaf.
Damian : Oh, you're going to be in the games, Andreas.
Eleni : /You/ can do all the sneaking about and such.
Polytropos : Well... just, you know... keep your eyes open.
Andreas Appolodorus: I have been training for this since I was what? Eight if I remember.
Leonidas : I suppose I could check out the place these guys are training and see if I could turn up any evidence there, if you think that would be worthwhile and prudent.
Damian : *pats Andreas' belly* Don't worry, we'll work that off of you in no time.
Polytropos : Worthwhile, and prudent.
Polytropos : We've got to know the competition!
Damian : You're the most skilled at that, Leo.
Eleni : Hm, perhaps, yes.
Leonidas : Alright I'll see what I can dig up.
Eleni : Let me know before you actually go there.
Leonidas : Why?
Eleni : Because if you're going to sneak in, I have a trick or two to make it easier for you.
Leonidas : Hmm ok
Polytropos : And yeah, we've been on ship for days! We need to get back into shape. Feel free to whip us if we look lax, Eleni.
Leonidas : I plan some general lookiing around first before actually trying to enter the place.
Damian : Pol, she's the sponsor, I'm the trainer so I'll be doing the whipping.
Eleni : *Grins* If you insist, though I'll have to go shopping first..
Kataramene : *lifts an eyebrow*
Eleni : Aw.
Polytropos : You don't get to whip, Damien, or we'll train on you. *slashes at the air, making 'ya!' noises.
Damian : Don't worry, Kat, I won't be whipping you, I want to keep my figners.
Kataramene : We can spar amongst ourselves to sharpen up, though I kept up exercise.
Epistor: Is there something you need, master?
Leonidas : yeah some wine
Epistor: Of course.
Damian : Feel free to train on Aias, Pol.
Polytropos : *stab stab*
Epistor: Wine, Melina.
Damian : Just let me stock up on bandages for you first.
Leonidas : and we need some couches we can sit around in these big rooms.
Kataramene : *takes off her own cloak and tosses it "somewhere" too*
Eleni : While we're in town, there's a few things we might want to find buyers for...
Polytropos : Oh yes! Oh, yes?
Kataramene : Yes, then we can work out an exercise regime.
Eleni : We still have this Minoan vase and a cask of mead. Though maybe we should just keep the latter...
Eleni : I've been dragging it along for far, far too long.
Leonidas : *samples wine*
Kataramene : Let's see if things have changed?
Epistor: I'm afraid it's quite common, the previous owners took all the best vintages with them.
Leonidas: *Burp*
Epistor: Should you wish to stock a better inventory, just let me know.
Leonidas : hmm best resock our wine cellar then.
Kataramene : But get out of the armour first.
Damian : Epistor, we need some couches and other sitting furniture if you can procure them.
Telemachus : We should find that weird guy you gave the money too
Epistor: Melina. Go see if the ohters require refreshment.
Epistor: Of course, master.
Telemachus : wasn't he supposed to be making us a weapon of some sort?
Damian : Damian, please.
Epistor: Do you have an account of funds I can draw upon, master?
Eleni : Oh, yes! The inventor with the plans for a siege bow.
Leonidas : Common stuff is ok for serving unimportant vistors, but we want decent stuff.
Andreas Appolodorus: We need to see the arena rules, no magic remember what they mean by that?
Epistor: Of course.
Damian : And we'll provide the funds, just present us with the bills.
Eleni : I wonder if it involves magical items, as well?
Leonidas : My understanding is the city is funding our stay here.
Polytropos : We don't need magic to win.
Epistor: Very well. I shall have an estimate for you by tomorrow.
Leonidas : Send the bills to them.
Eleni : Oh! Thank you, Milena.
Damian : It's our house, Leo, we have to pay for enhancements.
Epistor: Of course. All basic needs are provided for. But if you would like more expensive produce, I fear that they may not be forthcoming.
Polytropos : Hey! Thanks.
Eleni : *Grabs some of the wine*
Leonidas : That wasn't my understanding *smiles*
Polytropos : *pours.*
Telemachus : *takes one* Thanks.
Polytropos : Not bad...
Damian : *shrugs* You have the silver tongue, go ask if they'll provide us with what we want.
Kataramene : *takes a glass, sniffs then drinks*
Leonidas : *smiles*
Eleni : Hm. The wine is alright, I suppose.
Damian : *takes a glass*
Polytropos : We should visit the town, too.
Telemachus : "alrigh" after the crap we drank in Egypt and on the bloody boat it's ambrosia
Kataramene : There might be more talk of the possible opposition.
Polytropos : Our leathers and furs are alright. But if we're going into the arena without magic, we're going to need some real armour.
Damian : Not bad, but Leo's right, we could use better vintages.
Eleni : We should learn what the restrictions on equipment are, first...
Eleni : They might frown on magic blades.
Kataramene : .... oh yes.
Polytropos : That, that too. Good. Good thinking.
Eleni : And speaking of vintage..
Polytropos : Let's do it!
Andreas Appolodorus: Yes as I was saying earlier.
Polytropos : ... oh yeah, forgot about that...
Eleni : I have been carrying that around for /far/ too long.
Damian : I'm ready when you are, Eli.
Cretan Merchant: Welcome to Knossos. Can I interest you in my wares?
Leonidas: Yes. I'd like to see what you have for sale.
Telemachus : You were meant to sell it
Eleni : It's not worth a whole lot, so I thought it might be best kept for a particularly interested buyer.

Lazyzeus : Night falls over Argos. *let me know when you are ready to set out into the city again, and I'll advance the clock to morning*

Telemachus : *rolls eyes* store it somewhere, sell it, send it as a gift to someone if we want to court favour. Just don't complain about it
Damian : *stretches* We should turn in and see to the games in the morning.
Eleni : But if nobody wishes to keep it, fine. I'll get rid of the thing before my back is permanently damaged.
Polytropos : Ooo, lamb.
Andreas Appolodorus: Yes. Good night.
Kataramene : Some practice this evening would not go amiss.
Polytropos : I'm game!
Damian : *takes some* Thank you.
Polytropos : *snags a cut o' lamb.*
Andreas Appolodorus: Practice?
Kataramene : On the dock, we can use it to practice balance.
Eleni : If you do, do practice outdoors so the rest of us can have baths in relative peace. And thank you, Milena.
Polytropos : ... that too...
Damian : I'll go settle Aias in and meet you on the docks.

Leonidas : *spends the night and early morning prowling about and observing the gladitorial compound*

Lazyzeus : Morning arrives swiftly.

Telemachus : Nice to have a real bed for a change.
Polytropos : Aaah.
Damian : I'm just glad it didn't have and in it.
Kataramene : We need more clothes! Have to look the part around the city.
Polytropos : That too.
Eleni : Hm! Morning, everyone.
Telemachus : hmph. You're probably right.
Polytropos : Aaah.
Damian : *washes hands and face*
Eleni : *Splashes some water on her face*
Kataramene : *had washed in the basin in the room*
Eleni : Aaah... okay. Awake now, I think.
Telemachus : *Also washes up*
Eleni : Episotor! We're going into town! Just so you know.
Polytropos : Let's see what we can find out there!
Telemachus : I wonder what the merchants from crete brought with them
Polytropos : We've really gone up in the world.
Kataramene : You can check!
Eleni : Bows and leather, I would think.
Damian : I plan on it.
Kataramene : And yes we have.
Kataramene : I think we should ask for another serving slave.
Eleni : Well, we were /always/ magnificent, of course...
Eleni : Hm, what sort?
Kataramene : Someone big and strapping to carry the hard work. Epistor is a little elderly.
Polytropos : Someone's changed their tune...
Kataramene : Male, of course.
Eleni : And more Milena's age than Episotor's, I imagine... *smirks*
Kataramene : Yes, yes indeed.
Telemachus : *rolls eyes*
Kataramene : Can't put too much work on the poor fellows shoulders.
Eleni : It is an awful lot of villa to clean for an old man and a young girl.
Polytropos : Hm!
Polytropos : Hm.
Telemachus : We probably won't stay at the house half the time.
Kataramene : A guard while we are away, perhaps?
Polytropos : Aren't we enough man?
Eleni : Maybe not, maybe not...
Eleni : But it's nice to have a nice place to come home to.
Polytropos : Hmf!
Kataramene : *smirks a little*
Damian : I'm goign to get that leather breastplate unless someone else wants it.
Telemachus : *goes home and changes clothes really fast*
Eleni : Which one?
Damian : The rigid leather one.
Eleni : Oh, that one's quite an investment.
Damian : The fur is starting is starting to itch and smell.
Kataramene : I don't think it would benefit me, given these bracers.
Andreas Appolodorus: Can it be used during the games?
Polytropos : Don't know. Let's find out.
Kataramene : Probably worth while before buying anything.
Damian : Bought, but I'll lend it out for the games.
Polytropos : ... do you think we could bet against ourselves?
Polytropos : Er - for ourselves.
Polytropos : Maybe we can get Leo to do it.
Kataramene : Where's that fellow we gave the metal to?
Damian : I doubt it, Pol, but we can ask.

Zopyrus: *sees Kataramene and flushes*
Eleni : Going to have a drink?
Kataramene : Hello! We were going to come looking for you.
Zopyrus: You! It's ... you! Of course it's you. Who else would it be?
Polytropos : I think the games man was in here. We can come abck, though.
Kataramene : Who indeed. *shifts to stand just so*
Polytropos : Hi, Leo!
Leonidas : *nods*
Eleni : Hm. Oh. Did you find out anything?
Leonidas : We can talk later at the villa.
Polytropos : Right.
Kataramene : Interesting! We have met a great many new people.
Eleni : Alright.
Damian : No one in the arena.
Kataramene : Admittedly we killed rather a lot of them, but still interesting.
Eleni : Aaah, our inventor friend!
Eleni : Hello again.
Polytropos : Heh.
Eleni : I shall, then. How did that bow turn our, Inventor?
Kataramene : Speaking of inve... yest.
Damian : What bow? Oh right.
Eleni : Really?
Kataramene : Do you think you'll find a market for them?
Eleni : *Inspects, curious*
Eleni : Hm! It's a lot smaller than I thought it would be.
Damian : Bolts is easier to remember.
Polytropos : Did someone leave a farming tool in the road?
Polytropos : What is this thing?
Kataramene : Though death sticker is descriptive.
Eleni : ...which is a good thing, mind. The old-style siege bow isn't much use if you actually plan on moving around and aren't built like Andreas.
Polytropos : Seriously?
Telemachus : *dubious look*
Damian : *gestures at the bolts* I wouldn't want one of those sticking in me.
Eleni : Hm. We should find something to test this on.
Eleni : Preferably not a person.
Polytropos : Huh.
Kataramene : Until someone builds a bigger bow, at least.
Polytropos : Well, I think I'll pass. Tried and tested wins the day.
Eleni : I don't doubt it. Looks a lot easier to use than a normal bow, too.
Polytropos : They'll still be fighting in phalanxes for centuries to come, you bet.
Kataramene : *pats the sword that is still at her hip even in these clothes*
Eleni : Oh, you've surprisingly little sense of adventure in you, Pol.
Kataramene : *smirks*
Eleni : *Weighs it in her hand* You don't say... *smirk*
Kataramene : I'm sure she will point it at people beautifully. *sniffs*
Eleni : Thank you, Mister Inventor. We'll put this to good use, I'm sure.
Eleni : Sorry. We haven't ran into him yet.
Kataramene : If we do we'll send him your way.
Telemachus : Next monster we run into though, we'll be sure to shoot it with that thing.
Kataramene : Don't forget the death stickers, Eleni.
Eleni : Until then, you'll have to make do with us. I promise we'll be relatively famous as well!
Eleni : Are you alright?
Telemachus : *shakes his head with pity*
Eleni : *Shrugs, and loads the crossbow, with surprising proficiency*
Eleni : See you!
Polytropos : Crazy.
Polytropos : Does that thing even work?
Eleni : *Chuckles* Like I said. Like a constantly startled puppy.
Eleni : And I certainly hope so.
Eleni : We spent quite a few drachmae on the metal.
Polytropos : Hmf.

Leonidas : *claps hands and awaits servant*
Leonidas : *enjoys wine and some fruit while soaking in the bath*

Polytropos : Come on, we can enter in the games.
Eleni : But I don't particularly relish testing it in public, you know?
Polytropos : Then find out whatever Leo learned.
Eleni : Ah, right!
Eleni : I'm sure it'll be a step up from my sling.
Damian : Perfect hair color?
Telemachus : just a minute.
Eleni : *Shrugs* I wasn't about to argue....
Damian : *grins* Not that I disagree.
Eleni : Of course you don't.
Damian : *crosses arms*
Eleni : Right.
Eleni : So we're signing up Kat, Tel, Pol and Andreas, yes?
Damian : That was the plan.
Andreas Appolodorus: Sure.
Eleni : And I am the noble lady with a love for violent sport and an eye for talent.
Polytropos : Look talented and violent, everyone.
Eleni : I think I can pull that off.
Polytropos : *pulls a 'grr' face*
Damian : Let's just try for violent.
Telemachus : Are they running the sign up from the inn?
Eleni : Don't try /too/ hard.
Andreas Appolodorus: You think they have categories or just everyone the same?
Polytropos : *less grr.*
Eleni : We'll find out, I suppose.
Telemachus : *can't help looking violent*
Eleni : *Scans the tavern* You're sure it's here?
Polytropos : Pretty sure!
Eleni : *To the tavernkeeper* Excuse me.
Eleni : My friend here seems to be under the impression the signups for the games happen here. Is that correct?
Polytropos : That's the man!
Damian : Thank you.
Eleni : Thank you!
Kataramene : *strides around the corner*
Eleni : Good morning!
Polytropos : Everyone's going to Corinth...
Kataramene : Perhaps we can when we have free time.
Kataramene : Find out what the fuss is.
Eleni : *Confident grin* I understand you are the gentlement who takes in applicants to the Games.

Leonidas : *climbs out of the bath and stretches out on a couch*
Leonidas : Melina! Bring olive oil, I need a good massage!
Leonidas : Ah yes, that's very good; you have strong hands.
Leonidas : *relaxes*
Leonidas : *smiles groggily* you do that very well.

Damian : *thinks about looking violent, but settles on looking determined*
Polytropos : If she's going, I might consider it.
Eleni : Some young and very, very promising talent, yes!
Kataramene : *glares at Pol*
Polytropos : Hey! I'm just a lover of beauty. That's why I like you.
Damian : *thumbs at them* This lot wreslles bears for fun.
Kataramene : *half mollified, half suspicious sniff*
Eleni : The big one is Andreas. And my trainer is not joking about the bear-wrestling.
Andreas Appolodorus: We can give the public a good show and you could use "fresh blood" no?
Eleni : *Chuckles* The other three are no less talented, I assure you.
Eleni : You can call me Eleni.
Leonidas : *falls asleep on the couch*
Kataramene : We are talented.
Andreas Appolodorus: Really?
Eleni : I was getting to that, yes. *Smiles* Wanted to do the sales pitch, anyway.
Eleni : Four. Introduce yourselves, my dears.
Damian : *w to Andreas* Let Eli talk.
Kataramene : *indicates herself with a gesture* Katamarene.
Telemachus : Obviously I am. My name is Telemachus.
Polytropos : Polytropos, son of Kledias!
Andreas Appolodorus: Andreas.
Andreas Appolodorus: Yes a wrestler I am.
Damian : He beat the bear with one hand tied behind his back.
Eleni : And the finest you will ever meet!
Eleni : Aias was going easy on him that one time though, to be fair. Still impressive.
Damian : *shrugs* Can't have our finest warriors hurt.
Eleni : First city ones, yes.
Eleni : What of other gear, and weapons?
Polytropos : Ohhh.
Damian : *nods*
Polytropos : Ahem. I insist on fighting with my Spartan shield! Got to represent.
Polytropos : Aw.
Eleni : Don't make a fuss, now.
Eleni : The rules are the rules, and you won't win glory if people think you cheat.
Damian : You'll be fine, Pol. This is a test of skill, not equipment.
Polytropos : Now that's what I'm talking about.
Telemachus : Are all of the one-handed weapon so small?
Polytropos : A makhaira's pretty big...
Kataramene : *stands, arms folded* We may wear our own armour, all of it?
Telemachus : I've become rather fond of my Kopesh
Andreas Appolodorus: All combats moves are allowed?
Polytropos : Hm.
Eleni : What are the rules on things like amulets, bracers, rings and such?
Polytropos : Golden crown!
Kataramene : *lifts an eyebrow*
Polytropos : Textured like Sun.
Damian : So no rings, amulets, or bracers.
Telemachus : No.. he just said..
Damian : Nevermind.
Eleni : Only temporary enchantments are disallowed? That seems a strange distinction.
Telemachus : Shush!
Damian : My men and woman don't need them anyway.
Polytropos : I don't need 'em, never used 'em.
Eleni : Well, who am I to argue?
Eleni : Anything else we need to know?
Damian : Right.
Eleni : We'll be there!
Kataramene : *nods in agreement*
Telemachus : We'll be fighting one at a time I take it?
Damian : Incidents?
Eleni : I've been out of town for a few weeks, I'm afraid. Whatever do you mean...?
Damian : I understand that my fighters might get hurt, but I'd rather they not be maimed or killed.
Kataramene : *tilts head as if curious*
Telemachus : We don't usually have a gaggle of priests waiting nearby to save us if anything goes wrong. We're not worried.
Damian : *crosses arms* I see.
Kataramene : How did it happen?
Eleni : Hm...
Polytropos : ... huh...
Damian : *winces* I hope that doesn't happen again. I'm no priest.
Eleni : Oh, what a thing to miss.
Telemachus : *tch*
Eleni : But I have no doubt the opposition will be at far greater risk than my warriors.
Eleni : *Grins* I certainly hope so.
Damian : Aye. I don't train pushovers.
Eleni : Thank you for your time.
Damian : Of course. Thank you for your time.
Eleni : Alright! Back to the villa. Let's see that you're all ready for tomorrow...
Polytropos : Yeah!
Polytropos : Hunh.
Damian : So which one of you is goign to take the golden crown?
Andreas Appolodorus: *w* nobody asked about betting.
Eleni : Too early to tell, too early to tell...
Kataramene : I suppose that depends on who we meet in the bouts.
Eleni : Telemachus won the Mantineia games, but this is a different sort of thing.
Eleni : And we've all learned much since then.
Damian : Yeah. These are professional fighters.
Damian : But we're professional heroes, as Pol would say.
Telemachus : Yes, in this one I get to use a sword and shield and armour.
Polytropos : more than that, we're survivors.
Telemachus : Much more my taste.
Kataramene : I would prefer my own sword.
Kataramene : But I suppose it /is/ sharp.
Telemachus : Me too, or at least the shield, but we can't change the rules.
Eleni : Your own sword might just be better than any other in the city.
Damian : You're supposed to defeat your opponent, Kat, not kill them.
Eleni : And also terribly lethal compared to the game weapons.
Polytropos : We'll be alright. You might want an actual breastplate, Tel.
Telemachus : My sword might be twice the size of any other in teh city
Telemachus : I bought one today.
Kataramene : Which is why I see it's sensible not to use it.
Polytropos : Good man!
Telemachus : Good iron one from the blacksmith.
Polytropos : Couldn't find anything better than my Cretan armor. Which is kind of disheartening, but whatever.
Eleni : Cretan armour is supposed to be quite good, isn't it? Leather, anyway.
Polytropos : I'll just have to look like a prince.
Kataramene : I'm sure you will.
Eleni : I'm sure you'll manage. Just remember not to open your mouth and dispel the illusion of grandeur.
Polytropos : Oh-kaaay.

Damian : *whistles* Leo, get dressed.
Leonidas : *glance up* Why?
Eleni : Aaaah. Why am I not surprised?
Eleni : Should we wait on the terrace?
Damian : I'd rather keep my breakfast down, that's why.
Leonidas : *shrugs* wait wherever you like.
Kataramene : This is why we should have a male massuesse.
Telemachus : We can see what we can dig up between now and the start of the games.
Melina: You want rub-down, master?
Damian : *cracks knuckles* My fingers are pretty strong, Kat.
Telemachus : At the very least we might find out what we're up against.
Eleni : I believe Leo had a few things to share, besides himself.
Leonidas : *soaks in pool a bit*
Kataramene : I'm fine, thank you.
Telemachus : Am I the *only* one with his mind on business?!
Damian : *shrugs* Suit yourself.
Leonidas : I spent most of the evening and part of the morning checking out the gladiator school.
Damian : I could ask Aias if you like. *grins*
Polytropos : What're we up against?
Eleni : Hey, now! Don't get yourself /too/ worked up, Tel.
Kataramene : I'm sure he'd enjoy a massage.
Eleni : Else you'll be needing a massage, too.
Leonidas : It's a few miles from the city along the coast with sea cliffs on a couple of sides.
Kataramene : *throws a grin*
Eleni : Sounds remote.
Polytropos : Wow, were you out all night?
Leonidas : It's surrounded by by a wall with a walkway and a single gate. One guard on the gate and two walking the walls.
Polytropos : Ok...
Damian : Your arms aren't long enough, Kat.
Leonidas : Guards swap around dawn.
Eleni : *Frowns* Remote and fortified.
Kataramene : Are his gladiators slaves?
Damian : Sounds like they don't want company.
Leonidas : Gladiators start training shortly after dawn.
Leonidas : From what I could see at a distance, looks like several rinks or sand pits for training and sparring plus a few buildinds serving as barracks and storage.
Eleni : I can make you impossible to see for a short while, but that doesn't get you in - or, more importantly, out, as it would probably wear off before you learned much more.
Telemachus : Sounds like a miniture war camp.
Polytropos : What does a place like this need all that for? Was there anything weird out there that you saw?
Leonidas : Indeed.
Polytropos : Maybe they really are Spartans.
Leonidas : I didn't try to get too close my first visit, just got a general overveiw of the place.

[Karvon]

Lazyzeus : We pick up the story the afternoon before the Games...

Polytropos : Alright! Are we set?
Eleni : I certainly hope we are.
Kataramene : As well as we will ever be.
Andreas Appolodorus: To battle!
Leonidas : *shrugs*
Polytropos : Let's go and get a look at this 'compound'.
Damian : If not, you're all dead.
Eleni : If not, I will need to have Words with Damian.
Damian : Don't look at me, Eli. If they don't know how to fight by now, there's not much I can do about it.
Eleni : Sadly true.
Leonidas : Well unless you're planning to climb the wall and look around inside, I'm not sure what the point would be.
Kataramene : The compound seems a good destination, though hopefully not to give our purpose away.
Eleni : But when has that ever stopped nobles from blaming other people for their own unrealistic expectations?
Polytropos : We are, in fact, planning to climb the wall and look inside.
Eleni : We being... who?
Kataramene : Whoever can climb.
Damian : We're nobles? *looks around* Oh yeah.
Polytropos : Anyone we can get in there, I guess.
Eleni : /I/ am. Pretending to be, anyway.
Kataramene : And we are your gladiatorial guards, or whatever.
Andreas Appolodorus: Damien are you going to bet some gold on us?
Leonidas : Hmm, I'm not sure you wanna do that unless you have very good skill at sneaking around or some magical power to cloak yourself somehow.
Damian : *jiggles coin pouch* I only have 86 pieces.
Polytropos : Funnily enough, we do have that. Right?
Andreas Appolodorus: How much you want to bet?
Damian : And Leo and Pol should be the ones who do any sneaking.
Leonidas : The more that try to go in, the greater the odds of someone noticing.
Damian : Let me find out what the rules for betting are, Andreas, then I'll let you know. First, we should get to the games.
Eleni : I /do/ have 'some magic power to cloak myself somehow'. But it won't work the whole afternoon.
Polytropos : Alright, alright. But as long as SOMEONE goes in.
Andreas Appolodorus: Can't you send some kind of magic eye or an animal perhaps a rat to look?
Polytropos : We can't wait forever, it's already afternoon! And we'll need a good night's sleep.
Leonidas : I can probably sneak in and look around alright; but I'd have doubts about anyone wearing armor.
Damian : It would look rather strange if Eli and I weren't there with the competitors, Pol. I say Leo goes by himself unless you want to go with him.
Eleni : We only have Aias, and I bears are not known for their skill at infiltration.
Polytropos : We'll be back before the games, man.
Kataramene : The games are tomorrow, not today, so we can idle ourselves in practice or go look at the competition.
Leonidas : Stakeouts can be tedious so the rest of you might want to make use of the time for other things.
Kataramene : If we can get in and do that then we might defeat any attempt to cheat tomorrow.
Polytropos : We're not going to stake out. We need to get deep into that place.
Damian : *shrugs* I'll go see about the betting. Supterfuge is not my speciality.
Andreas Appolodorus: Did anyone consider that the opponents may not be humans?
Leonidas : I don't think that's a realistic option, withou alerting the place.
Kataramene : If Eleni and Damien can bluff their way in then some of us can go that way, while those better equipped find a subtler way.
Eleni : Always a possibility.
Polytropos : Then we'll alert the place, but as long as we learn what we need to learn and get out alive, it's fine.
Eleni : And how, exactly, do you propose we do that...?
Kataramene : If we take a look at them we might find out! We're not going to do that standing here all day discussing it.
Leonidas : *shakes head*
Polytropos : We can talk on the way. Show us the way, Leo.
Eleni : *Sighs*
Damian : Let me go change first.
Eleni : This is going to end poorly.
Leonidas : I've yet to see this group pull of a stealthy approach.
Kataramene : If we meet strong resistance or they see through the disguise then it may be better to withdraw.
Polytropos : First time for everything.
Eleni : There's not going to be a Games at this rate.
Leonidas : *shrugs* I'm not the one on the sharp end of the spear.
Telemachus : You could lie your way in
Kataramene : If we are discovered, though, it could simply be a rival's attempt to gain intelligence on the opposition, yes?
Telemachus : visit and say you want to buy a gladiator
Polytropos : We can sneak in and lie our way in.
Andreas Appolodorus: I don't think we have any power to deteck anything odd on them. Would it not be better to ask defeated people what happened?
Leonidas : Dunno; anyone ask around about the customs here regarding that?
Telemachus : eh, people trade everything
Leonidas : You could get tossed out of the tourney, for example.
Eleni : That would be my first concern, yes.
Polytropos : If anyone knew anything, they'd have come forward by now.
Damian : I still say that Leo going in alone is the best plan.
Polytropos : Alright! Let's go.
Kataramene : Best of luck getting him to go in.
Telemachus : you want us to wait nearby?
Eleni : I also do not think it is customary to trade gladiators the day before the Games, yes?
Polytropos : You don't have to buy a *gladiator*. Just a slave.
Eleni : I wonder, though.
Leonidas : You can wait wherever you want.
Eleni : Perhaps we could sell rather than buy.
Polytropos : Or that!
Damian : Who'd buy Andreas?
Leonidas : I plan to just observe the place till nightfall.
Polytropos : If you talk at the gate, that gives others of us a better chance to get over the wall.
Eleni : Do we really wish to do this today?
Polytropos : When else?
Leonidas : last chance, tourny's tomorrow
Eleni : We've not even seen them in action yet.
Kataramene : *nods at Pol*
Polytropos : We'll see them when we get there.
Telemachus : Well if they are cheating I'd rather they didn't have that edge in the fight..
Polytropos : That's what the Councillor asked for!
Eleni : He also asked us not to be to obvious about any of this.
Eleni : Which clearly was a request too far.
Polytropos : Even if we do beat them at their peak, if they're cheating somehow, tehy'll still be able to do it next month.
Argosian Guard: *glances at the passers-by*
Kataramene : *looks up at the walls of the Arena*
Polytropos : Sometimes, you have to do a little crazy to win.
Eleni : Or to be kicked from the city in disgrace.
Polytropos : Can you imagine Odysseus telling his men, "Alright, you all put this wax in your ears..."
Polytropos : "I'll drive"
Polytropos : Crazy, but it worked!
Telemachus : he didn't drive, he had them tie him to the mast.
Kataramene : Then there's the whole wooden horse thing.
Eleni : That was /prudent/, not crazy.
Polytropos : Well, whatever. Anyway, is this the right way?
Eleni : I don't know! You'd better lead the way, Leo.
Leonidas : Ya think?
Argosian Guard: You there on the wagon, we haven't all day!
Telemachus : at this rate we'll hardly get any sleep before the fights tomorrow..
Damian : You all fight better tired.

Lazyzeus : Leonidas directs you to the estate of Eumenius, which is about 20 stadia outside the city, along the cliffs overlooking the harbor. You arrive as the sun is setting...

Leonidas : This path leads to the estate
Eleni : Another concern, yes.
Eleni : I see the walls...
Eleni : And a patrol.
Polytropos : Those are pretty big walls. Any other way in?
Eleni : I assume there is at least one gate.
Leonidas : You know, they might have some lookouts around
Eleni : But I don't see how that would be an improvement.
Leonidas : There are no other ways in that I found the other day.
Andreas Appolodorus: What now?
Polytropos : Alright. If you folks try the bluff-way-in, we'll try the walls.
Leonidas : Well it's too late for my plan to sneak and observe them during the day.
Polytropos : If it all goes wrong, just... run
Eleni : *Raises brow* I am really not sure how to do this in a way that won't make us look like fools.
Leonidas : I don't think the direct approach is a good idea at all.
Andreas Appolodorus: I have little confidence in this plan.
Leonidas : We're supposed to be low key, no?
Telemachus : Good. If they think we're fools they'll underestimate us.
Damian : That's more than I have.
Polytropos : *massages the side of his head.*
Polytropos : That's the idea of a diversion.

Kataramene : *sighs and ... then turns round*
Telemerion: Whatcha doin?
Polytropos : Aw no.
Kataramene : What are ... where did you come from?
Eleni : I'll just be some crazy woman knocking on a door late in the even -
Telemerion: Oooh, are we sneaking around? I _love_ sneaking around!
Leonidas : Not sure why we need or want a diversion.
Eleni : ...oh, what fabulous timing.
Telemerion: Haven't seen you in a while!
Andreas Appolodorus: Friend?
Leonidas : Disturbing the routine will only raise suspicions and put them on alert.
Damian : *w to Eli* See if you can get it to do our sneaking for us.
Eleni : Probably because we have been on different landmasses.
Kataramene : No, no you haven't, have you?
Telemerion: Fey magic doesn't work well in cities, or over water.
Polytropos : *sigh*
Eleni : Has the satyr been giving you any trouble?
Telemerion: Silenus is aaaannngry, I tell you.
Kataramene : Hang around here often?
Polytropos : As long as we try *something*. Now what's this?
Andreas Appolodorus: Are you the one who tricked us before in the forest?
Telemerion: No! Well, teeechnically I'm still on the job.
Damian : Only because the Satyr ordered it to.
Telemerion: Yes! That was hilarious!
Kataramene : Following us and annoying us?
Eleni : Only, you haven't been able to find us for months.
Telemerion: Oh man, when you kicked over that spider nest... oh... *laughs*
Andreas Appolodorus: hm if you say so.
Kataramene : Is this somewhere you come a lot? *gestures to the fort*
Kataramene : *villa even*
Eleni : Have you gotten worse at sneaking about, or did you want us to see you?
Kataramene : I'd say the first.
Kataramene : Pretty sure she's lost the ability to sneak.
Damian : Are we done here? We have an important meeting at the villa and we don't need this pest bothering our hosts.
Kataramene : Prove it.
Kataramene : *gestures to Damien to hang on*
Kataramene : Tell you what, I can set you a test.
Andreas Appolodorus: Well it depends does sneaking includes investigation?
Damian : *crosses arms*
Polytropos : ... might even be a treat if you win!
Kataramene : Yes! some shiney gold of your own.
Kataramene : As a prize for being a fine sneak.
Andreas Appolodorus: Can fey do that?
Damian : *snorts* It couldn't sneak up on a blind and deaf drunk.
Eleni : Hm Maybe you have just lost your touch.
Kataramene : I heard her easily, and can't here Pol or Leo when they set their mind to it.
Andreas Appolodorus: If you could stop your er music perhaps you check something for us.
Polytropos : It's fine. They're all a bunch of nasty men in there.
Polytropos : *blink*
Eleni : See, now that's more like it.
Kataramene : Yeah, but that's not much of a test.
Kataramene : Tell you what, there's a villa over there.
Andreas Appolodorus: Hey.
Telemerion : *stings Kataramene in the rear*
Kataramene : Oww.... you little.
Eleni : True. It takes more than not being seen to be undetected.
Kataramene : Silly tricks. I bet she couldn't get into that villa over there unnoticed.
Polytropos : *low.* maybe she could make all of us unseen...?
Kataramene : *shrugs shoulders, trying to cover her ears*
Eleni : /I/ could do that, but such spells don't last forever.
Kataramene : And we might still be heard.
Eleni : Of course.

Hired Guard : Something's triggered the ward!
Hired Guard : Alert, alert!

Kataramene : Ward?
Andreas Appolodorus: What was that?
Damian : A diversion for Leo.
Kataramene : What's a ward?
Eleni : *Frowns* Do they have a mage handling their security?
Eleni : Either that, or it was our pixie friend's fault. Can't hear her wings flutter anymore.

Hired Guard : Something triggered the ward Sire

Kataramene : *sighs* The fey was supposed to find us a way in, has Leo triggered this ward?
Damian : Leo approaches.
Telemerion: Ha, ha. Nice joke.
Andreas Appolodorus: What now?
Leonidas : Some sort of ward, like I warned you.
Telemerion: Ha, ha. Very funny.
Polytropos : A-ha...
Eleni : Oh, there she is.
Kataramene : What did you do?
Telemerion: _Big_ joke on the fey.
Telemerion: You didn't tell me that they had a mage ward on the entrance!
Eleni : We didn't /know/ that.
Andreas Appolodorus: We did not know.
Leonidas : Dunno if it was me, I just walked close to the wall, like I did the other day and it didn't happen then.
Kataramene : Either way, you weren't clever enough to get past it.
Damian : Besides, you should have been able to easily slip past it.
Telemerion: Well sheesh!
Telemachus : uhhm, they're probably going to come out here and look around..
Andreas Appolodorus: Shall we go get some sleep?
Kataramene : So you /can't/ sneak into there?
Eleni : Look, the guards might start combing the area soon...
Leonidas : might want to pull back in case they send out some patrol or scouts.
Polytropos : If they've got a wizard, that means something's up.

Eumenius : All right, double the guards, no one sleeps tonight who isn't fighting tomorrow!

Kataramene : Come on then, little sneak, you can tell us how to get back at the satyr,
Damian : Good thing we have a wizard.
Telemerion: I'm sensing that there's something going on here beyond our thing.
Eleni : Sorceress!
Kataramene : *digs in purse and throws her a coin* You can give that to him and say you robbed us.
Polytropos : Those men in there are a bunch of rotten cheats.
Eleni : I can't learn much about that ward without getting closer, though. And risking triggering it again.
Andreas Appolodorus: We can bet some gold on them too.
Leonidas : *steps into the shadows of the trees*
Damian : *looks at Eli* What's the difference?
Telemerion: I can go no farther.
Telemerion: Oh, if Silenus asks, don't tell him I told you that.
Polytropos : Rrrright.
Kataramene : We promise.
Kataramene : So, getting back at him....?
Eleni : Say, could you tell me more about that ward...?
Kataramene : And that... *nods at Eleni*
Eleni : Wonderfully nasty? Nasty nasty? Scary nasty?
Polytropos : Hm.
Polytropos : Well... at least we know there's magic in there somewhere...
Eleni : Sonic explosion. Sensible.
Polytropos : Right?
Telemerion: So I guess I should do something bad to you, gotta keep appearances up, you know.
Eleni : Yes. He either has a mage on staff, or hired one.
Kataramene : You already hurt my ear.
Eleni : Do you really /have/ to?
Telemerion: What do you think about turning the big guy there into a frog?
Andreas Appolodorus: Noooo.
Kataramene : It really stings and will keep me awake all night.
Eleni : Silenus doesn't seem like a very good master.
Telemerion: Or that one, in the green? He's already got the color right.

Leonidas : *goes back to casing the walls*

Kataramene : No!
Telemerion: He's mean and has strong magic.
Polytropos : No no no.
Eleni : Well, /we're/ strong, too. And we're not mean. Most of the time.
Telemerion: Yeah, you guys are hilarious.
Eleni : *Grins* I'm glad you agree.
Telemerion: Well, if you're not interested in pranking the satyr, I guess I'll get going. But if anyone asks I got you good this time.
Damian : *looks at the fey* You know, Aias could use a companion...
Kataramene : Yes, you got us good.
Polytropos : Real good.
Kataramene : We're outraged.
Eleni : You can tell him you set off the ward on purpose, I suppsoe.
Eleni : Gave us away! Ruined our plans!
Telemerion: Ha! How do you know I didn't... *laughs, and flies off*
Kataramene : ....
Eleni : *Smiles* Thought so.
Kataramene : Rest is probably the wisest act then now.
Eleni : Probably.
Kataramene : A late swim and to bed.
Kataramene : The water is always warmest now.
Polytropos : Still think we could've gotten in.
Eleni : Tears, spilled, milk.
Kataramene : I'm sure you could.
Eleni : We weren't getting in after they doubled the guard.
Kataramene : Do you think the little twerp really did it on purpose?
Polytropos : Even then, some of us could have made a ruckus, drawn them off...
Eleni : Possibly.
Eleni : It's hard to tell with faeries.
Polytropos : Hmf.
Polytropos : It flies, but it used the front entrance. Go fogure.
Kataramene : True....
Eleni : I'm not sure if it can fly very high.
Polytropos : Higher than us!
Damian : It's just covering up for its incompetence.
Eleni : ...not saying a great deal.

Eleni : Good evening, Epistor. Melina.
Polytropos : Hey, Epistor. We're gonna need a quick early breakfast.
Kataramene : Something light.
Eleni : *Yawns*
Eleni : You know...
Eleni : I don't think Leo left.
Kataramene : Well maybe he'll see something useful.
Telemachus : Leo isn't fighting in the morning.
Leonidas : *waits patiently*
Eleni : Well, yes..
Eleni : Wish he'd said something, though.
Eleni : Have something that could help him.
Andreas Appolodorus: Alea Jacta Est.

Leonidas : *attempts to scale wall*

Eleni : *Yawns* Good night, then...
Kataramene : Will be back shortly. *changes out of armour and kits up for a swim*
Eleni : Hey!
Andreas Appolodorus: Really?
Eleni : Say something before you barge in!
Kataramene : *humphs*
Andreas Appolodorus: Ah er sorry.
Damian : *to Aias* How have you been, my friend?
Eleni : ...and then rush off.
Eleni : Hmph.
Polytropos : *nods at Tel.*
Kataramene : *has gone for that swim*
Polytropos : Ah, was just coming to join you. Water got cold?
Kataramene : I forgot my towel.
Kataramene : Techniques for tomorrow.
Polytropos : I could use a bit of that.
Kataramene : I'd have liked to have seen how big they were.
Eleni : *Sits by the balcony, meditating and occasionally frowning to herself*

Hired Guard: We didn't see anybody, boss.
Eumenius: That's why I don't like it.
Eumenius: Too much of a coincidence.
Leonidas : *slides along slowly in the shadows of the wall*
Eumenius: These new contestants arrive to challenge me?
Eumenius: And then, the next night, someone tries to break in?
Hired Guard: Well, maybe something was wrong with the spell.
Eumenius: No, they haven't done wrong by me yet.
Eumenius: Anyway, I don't like it.
Eumenius: You stay here all night, watch this door.
Hired Guard: Yes, boss.
Eumenius: I'm going to take one quick look around the perimeter.
Eumenius: *muttering to himself*
Eumenius: I've already had the stuff delivered to the Arena... this is getting too dicey.
Eumenius: These new warriors...
Eumenius: Something fishy here...
Hired Guard: You say something, boss?
Eumenius: No. just thinking out loud.
Eumenius: Carry on.
Hired Guard: *stands guard in front of the door to the main house*
Leonidas : *pads away into the darkness*

Eleni : *Looks up* Oh. Hello.
Eleni : Oh, yes. Just trying out some of those meditative exercises my master used to try and teach me. Which has been a while.
Eleni : But this seems like a good place for it.
Damian : Ah. I hope I'm not disturbing you then. *holds up a scroll* I found a treatise on natural healing I wanted to look at.
Eleni : *Looks over shoulder, smiles* Found where? Somewhere in the market?
Damian : No, in the library. Eventually I would like to attempt to make healing kits.
Eleni : Ooh. I haven't had the chance to look over our library, yet.
Damian : You should, Eli. There's a lot of knowledge in there.
Eleni : Hmm. I will. Just... not that much time to breathe, lately.
Damian : I know the feeling. I guess we have to take the moments when we get them.
Eleni : Heh. Yes, I don't see much of an alternative.
Damian : *puts the scroll down and gazes out over the water* As much as I miss our village, the view here is spectacular.
Eleni : *Stands up* Yes, it is. I like it during the day too, with ships coming and going, but...
Eleni : There's something about an empty night.
Damian : It's peaceful.
Eleni : Anyway! Sounds like some commotion downstairs.
Eleni : *Dusts off her robe* Let's check on our warriors, hm?
Damian : *rolls up the scroll* Good idea.

Lazyzeus : You have all retired for the night when Leonidas returns.

Epistor: Oh, master!
Leonidas : Some food and wine if you please
Epistor: I thought everyone had gone to bed. At once!
Epistor: Wake up, you lazy girl!
Melina: *hurries off*
Leonidas : *takes a seat and relaxes in the silence*
Leonidas : *smiles and takes the wine and food*
Melina: *serves*
Leonidas : Oh, and rouse my companions out of bed will you?
Melina: Wake up... the men?
Leonidas : Yeah and the women too
Epistor: Oh, just stay here, silly girl, I will do it.
Melina: *looks agawp*
Melina: I can't Sire

Epistor : Your sleep is interrupted by a rap on the doorsill to your rooms.
Epistor: Ah, excuse me, masters?
Leonidas : *shrugs*
Epistor: I am so sorry, but your friend has returned and is asking for you.
Leonidas : *sips wine*
Telemachus : hgmn?
Telemachus : *sigh*
Polytropos : Gwa?
Kataramene : *dresses and walks out, tousled with sleep* What's up?
Melina: Sire?
Polytropos : *snags something from the tray on the way.* Thanks.
Kataramene : Hgnn.. right. Coming.
Polytropos : Leo... hey.
Kataramene : Eleni was outside.
Leonidas : *smiles*
Polytropos : *munch.*
Leonidas : It seems our competition has something for edge.
Melina: *nods reapectfully*
Eleni : *Nods* Epistor. Something going on?
Kataramene : *grabs drink off tray on way past*
Andreas Appolodorus: You got something to tell us?
Eleni : Right. I was starting to get worried...
Damian : Thank you.
Leonidas : Whatever it is has already been delivered to the arena this evening for their use tomorrow.
Kataramene : Like what?
Leonidas : Not sure what IT is exactly, they didn't say.
Eleni : Did we miss something?
Andreas Appolodorus: You went to the arena?
Leonidas : Nope, not yet.
Polytropos : This could be our chance.
Kataramene : Yeah, yeah. Better get dressed.
Polytropos : Nice work, man!
Leonidas : Thought you might want to go and take around before dawn and see if you can find out what IT is.
Polytropos : Hee hee.
Damian : Good work, Leo.
Polytropos : You bet.
Telemachus : hmn.
Eleni : Right. The non-fighters could keep an eye out during the night, I suppose.
Leonidas : Perhaps swap something inert like wine or water for it, if it's some sort of liquid agent.
Polytropos : *pulls on his cloak*
Polytropos : Do we still have that mead cask?
Eleni : Or, failing that, destroy or remove whatever it is. We'll think of something.
Damian : I have some ale.
Kataramene : Good idea.
Eleni : And no, I sold it. Like you told me to!
Telemachus : Lets go and look. *fetches and starts pullin on his armour*
Damian : *mead
Polytropos : Aw.
Eleni : You're all coming, as well?
Leonidas : If we have some oils or greases as well, we can more likely swap in something that resembles it.
Polytropos : Sure! Got that fizzing in my blood.
Kataramene : It might be guarded.
Epistor: We have olive oil, plenty of that.
Leonidas : Very likely
Polytropos : Eh, so.
Eleni : It might also take us all night before something happens.
Damian : I have some mead.
Polytropos : We know whoever's guarding it isn't one of these super-arena fighters.
Leonidas : Anyway, that's the news.
Polytropos : Good work, man. Let's get to it!
Eleni : So don't blame me if you're too tired to fight tomorrow.
Leonidas : Do with it as you wish
Eleni : How many entrances does the arena have?
Leonidas : probably several
Kataramene : We don't know what IT is, but can come back for a cask if it suits.
Polytropos : I only saw one, but let's find out.
Leonidas : *drains wine goblet*
Polytropos : *yawn*
Damian : *mutters* So much for admiring the view...
Polytropos : Hope my fight's late.
Kataramene : Hnn..
Damian : You'll do fine, Pol.
Eleni : You could always go rest. We can send someone running later if you're needed.
Polytropos : I'll not be able to sleep until I know!
Telemachus : Leo said that whatever it was, it's already there waiting
Kataramene : We'll take a quick look, and if it's going to take a while then do taht.
Eleni : And twelve hours from now, you'll be dead on your feet..
Polytropos : This is the most rest we've had in ages.

Polytropos : *sneak sneak*
Kataramene : *pauses cautiously in shadow of wall*
Eleni : We should watch from a distance, yes?

Lazyzeus : In the still of the predawn hours, the arena is empty.

Eleni : ...or not. *Sighs*
Kataramene : *gives her a rueful shrug*
Damian : Hm? Sorry, I was distracted.
Polytropos : ... hm...
Leonidas : must be service entrances for the gladiators and staff
Polytropos : *hops down into the arena.*
Telemachus : start looking for whatever it is.
Polytropos : ... oof.
Leonidas : aha
Kataramene : *pauses by the doorway*
Leonidas : hmm
Leonidas : need a special key
Polytropos : ... huh.
Kataramene : Pol might have had the best idea then.
Damian : *leans against the railing*
Telemachus : Did you stop to think how you'd get back up?
Polytropos : Isn't that what you're all for?
Telemachus : *laying down and reaching an arm out to help him up*
Polytropos : Come on, help me up.
Polytropos : *clambers up*
Polytropos : *throws his cloak up as a rope, if necessary!*
Leonidas : those gates locked I imagine?
Kataramene : No luck?
Telemachus : so, nothing?
Polytropos : Can't open those without a lot of noice.
Leonidas : special key?
Polytropos : Hey...
Polytropos : Psst.
Eleni : *Silent behind the crates*
Polytropos : ... no, wait...
Polytropos : *sigh*
Eleni : *Sighs*

Polytropos : Hello!
Myrtis: A bit early, aren't you?
Polytropos : That's right!
Polytropos : Are we? We're just raring to go. Can we come in?
Myrtis: Let me guess. First Games?
Kataramene : *slides behind the pillar*
Andreas Appolodorus: what time do we need to report?
Myrtis: At sun-up.
Polytropos : That's not long, is it?
Andreas Appolodorus: and where do we enter?
Telemachus : We do a couple of laps of the city as a warm up.
Myrtis: Combatants enter here, patrons at the main stairs around to your right.
Andreas Appolodorus: Thank you.
Myrtis: Well, I prefer a good night's sleep, personally.
Polytropos : ... so what are you doing here?
Damian : *glares* Why aren't you all doing your exercises?
Myrtis: *shakes head* It's my job to see that everything is in readiness.
Polytropos : Ohh. Can we help?
Myrtis: Peleus likes his beauty sleep.
Myrtis: It's mostly just clerical work. Thank you, but I would focus on your own preparations.
Myrtis: Especially since you'll be fighting Eumenius's men.
Damian : *turns to Myrtis and bows* Excuse me, madam, I did not see you there.
Polytropos : ... hrm.
Polytropos : Alright, we'll level with you.
Polytropos : We think Eumenius is cheating, and we saw his people deliver some stuff here.
Myrtis: That is a very serious accusation.
Polytropos : We just want to be sure. Maybe some... money would be appropriate here?
Polytropos : You can even watch what we do!
Kataramene : *face palms behind her pillar*
Myrtis: *lifts chin* A bribe is not necessary. We in Argos take the Games very seriously.
Eleni : *Rubs her forehead*
Polytropos : I like you already, ma'am.
Damian : Don't mind him, he gets nervous before the games.
Polytropos : *hops from foot to foot.*
Myrtis: Well, this is all very irregular, but...

Eumenius : Ho, ho, what's all this now?
Myrtis: Eumenius!
Eleni : *Wince*
Eumenius: Looks like I'm not the only one who likes to get an early start.
Polytropos : Aw.
Shaba: *glances over the others*
Myrtis: *looks back and forth* I, ah... I have to get Peleus!
Eumenius: Go right ahead. We'll wait, eh, boys?
Polytropos : Yeah, alright.
Shaba: *a hint of a smile creases the corner of his mouth*
Leonidas : *watches*
Damian : *crosses arms*
Kataramene : *moves in by the wall, loosens her sword in it's scabbard, and gets closer*
Eumenius: So, you're the new blood.
Polytropos : You'd be the old bones?
Damian : *leans against the railing*
Eumenius: Out taking a late night stroll? Or just couldn't wait to get here to taste dirt, eh?
Gregos: *interlocks his fingers and cracks his knuckles*
Andreas Appolodorus: Taste dirt? Are you serious?
Polytropos : You're not really thinking about starting early, are you?
Eumenius: Come on, what's a little friendly ribbing between contestants, eh?
Telemachus : *Just looms at the back, face blank*
Eumenius: My boys have been eager to have a challenge. From what I hear, you lot are somewhat notorious.
Polytropos : Famous. The word is famous.
Damian : *shrugs*
Peleus : What's all this now?
Kataramene : *looks at the guard*
Polytropos : We're just talking!
Eumenius: Ah, master Peleus.
Eumenius: Looks like everyone was just too eager to begin.
Peleus: But it's the middle of the freaking night!
Damian : The early bird gets the worm.
Andreas Appolodorus: Perhaps you could tell us. It seems that we are a bit early.
Eumenius: So sorry to disturb your rest.
Peleus: Gaaah.
Eumenius: Shall we all just wait out here, or...
Peleus: Fine, fine. *mutters darkly*
Polytropos : It's warmer inside, I'll bet.
Peleus: All right, trainers and warriors only! This isn't a circus.
Peleus: Myrtis! Get over here!
Polytropos : Hnh.
Peleus: All right, no pushing!
Peleus: I don't want any trouble, save it for the arena!
Kataramene : Wouldn't dream of it.
Damian : *w* Leo, stay with Eli and see if you two can find out anything else.
Leonidas : *shrugs*
Eleni : *Sighs*

Polytropos : Do... we have rooms...?
Kataramene : *low* Their stuff will be in there.
Polytropos : *frown.*
Polytropos : *hangs head.*
Kataramene : *stands trying to look heroic and noble and dangerous all at the same time*
Polytropos : Hey, if we wanted to make actual allegations we'd have come straight to you.
Polytropos : You don't get the feeling there's something funny about those guys?
Kataramene : What kind of stuff for participants gets delivered in the middle of the night?
Kataramene : *looks at the Arena guard*
Polytropos : *suspicious squint.*
Damian : What about that noise you heard earlier?
Kataramene : Well we /know/ something was brought here.
Damian : Or rats.
Kataramene : *keeps quiet, as it was probably us*
Polytropos : Well, I s'pose at this point, all we can do is try and fight them and figure it out on the way.
Kataramene : *looks at the guard suspiciously*
Polytropos : Not... idea, but...
Polytropos : er, ideal.
Damian : Our appologies, Peleus. Let us sign up and let you return to your bed.
Damian : *glances over his shoulder at Pol* Taking inventory?
Polytropos : Yup.



Eleni : *Muttering* Well... that could have gone better.
Leonidas : About average for our heroes I'd say.
Eleni : Eesh!
Eleni : /Tell/ me when you're lurking about, why don't you?
Eleni : Don't startle me like that.
Leonidas : That takes all the fun out of it.
Leonidas : Not sure exactly what they expect us to do out here.
Polytropos : *tries to peep through the lock.*
Eleni : *Shakes her head*
Leonidas : They told me to stay with you.
Leonidas : So... here I am.
Eleni : Me neither. Did they leave the door open?
Eleni : Unlocked, I mean.
Leonidas : we can check
Leonidas : *examines*
Eleni : That is a no, then.
Leonidas : Actually it's unlocked
Eleni : Oh. Alright...
Leonidas : however, there is a guard on the other side.
Eleni : Then we can move in be - oh.
Leonidas : Not sure we wanna be sticking our fingers into a potential hornet's next at this juncture.
Eleni : Could we get in through the other way? By the arena?
Leonidas : I don't think so, based on what Pol said.
Eleni : Well, we still haven't actually learned anything at this juncture.
Leonidas : Unless they happen to unlock the gates and let the warriors out to spar.
Leonidas : us dropping into that wouldn't appear too good either though.
Eleni : Not if we're invisible.
Eleni : Though I'm not sure we should count on that. Maybe if we can just lure the guard away from his post for a second....
Leonidas : I think that'd be dicey, under the circumstances.
Eleni : The circumstances are fairly dicey to begin with.

Eleni : Oh...
Lukas: *nods to you, then goes inside*
Eleni : *Is still invisible!*
Leonidas : the other option might be to figure out what got delivered. Someone had to open the door for that.
Eleni : Yes, but who has keys apart from Myrtis and Peleus? Assuming it wasn't one of them..
Eleni : We could try and dash in with the next group of competitors.
Leonidas : Dunno, might be possible the keys were copied?
Eleni : Possible, yes.
Leonidas : Perhaps, to what end?
Eleni : So we can get inside and search for whatever got delivered.
Leonidas : It's likely under guard.
Leonidas : I doubt we can just waltz about and find it so easily.
Eleni : Again.. not quite as much of a problem if we can't be seen.
Leonidas : It's also a question of being heard.
Leonidas : and seeing doors and what not open and close.
Eleni : Look, do you have any better ideas? The others are going to be occupied, and if we don't do something they won't be facing a fair fight.
Leonidas : *shrugs*

Kataramene : *sidles up to the guard*
Andreas Appolodorus: Who has a key to that door?
Damian : Let's get you signed in so we can get soem rest.
Kataramene : *low* What does a girl need to do to get an advantage around here? You know, get you to fill me in on what you know about the competition.
Andreas Appolodorus: * 100 push ups to start with *
Damian : *signs everyone in*
Polytropos : Oh dear. No, no, you're not late.
Damian : How do you choose matches?
Polytropos : You really in for this one? It's pretty brutal...
Kataramene : *low still* What's his advantage? Do they have a trick?
Polytropos : That's right!
Andreas Appolodorus: 98, 99, 100
Kataramene : So does everyone! There's got to be somethin?
Polytropos : Nice to be recognised. You, ah, you here to fight? Best of luck, I think...
Kataramene : *rattles the coins in her purse* Tell me and I'll make it worth your while.
Damian : I'd rather my guys not fight each other because I can deal with bruised bones. Bruised egos are a different story.
Damian : *low* Especially the one in green, he's very sensitive.
Damian : *over his shoulder* There are clerics here, Andreas.
Kataramene : *sighs a little*
Damian : *nods* Good. One other thing: is betting allowed?
Damian : I take it it's not santicioned?
Damian : Ah, okay.
Damian : So do we, but that doesn't preclude making money off of it.
Kataramene : *gives up*

Lazyzeus : As the sun begins to come up, people start arriving at the Arena...

Eleni : Alright...
Eleni : The competitors should start coming in greater numbers, now.
Eleni : I've got something for you that might be useful in an emergency. Do you think you could read this?
Leonidas : Yeah I suppose
Leonidas : So you really want to try this?
Eleni : Yes! I don't see much of an alternative.
Eleni : The others won't have much chance to move around freely.
Leonidas : We could get a good seat to watch the show. *smiles*
Eleni : I'd rather watch a show that's not rigged.
Leonidas : Or we could simply say we're part of the staff but running late due to getting some healing supplies.
Eleni : Alright, we can do that. But we'll be back to sneaking about once inside, most likely.
Leonidas : Alright
Eleni : Time to stop delaying... *knocks*
Leonidas : I still think it's too late for this.
Eleni : And whose fault is that?
Leonidas : *shrugs*
Eleni : *Knocks, again*
Leonidas : I think the gladiators are gonna have close watch on whatever it is.
Eleni : I'm sure we can deal with it.
Eleni : *Decides to just go ahead and open the damn door*
Leonidas : Hope you're right
Eleni : *Looks through the door grate*
Leonidas : *follows sorceress*

Lazyzeus : Those below start to hear the sounds of the crowd gathering.

Damian : Right. Is there anything else we need to do?
Damian : *turns to the others* Get your weapons, guys.
Polytropos : *low.* We'll be alright. I think.
Kataramene : Can we pick our own shields? That one looks pretty.
Polytropos : Sure.
Andreas Appolodorus: I am ready.
Kataramene : *picks and adjusts a painted shield*
Polytropos : *picks the most annoying shield possible.*
Kataramene : *selects a xiphos*
Polytropos : Makhaira, Tel?
Telemachus : *grumps* silly little shields too..
Telemachus : I picked an axe.
Andreas Appolodorus: What's a magical amulet?
Polytropos : ... well, don't look at me...
Polytropos : No-one would dare! Priests of Hermes, right?
Damian : No.
Kataramene : The priests would know, yes.
Damian : *mutters* I need a bath.
Kataramene : *narrows eyes looking after him*

Eleni : Hm...
Eleni : Guard, you said?
Leonidas : he's behind the door
Eleni : Oh! Hello.
Arena Guard: Can I help you?
Eleni : Myrtis asked for us to deliver her some healing supplies.
Arena Guard: The games are about to start.
Arena Guard: All right, go ahead.
Leonidas : *nods*
Eleni : Yes, that's why it was so urgent, apparently. Thank you!

Eleni : ...that was easy.
Eleni : *Cloaks herself around the corner*
Eleni : Okay...
Leonidas : and now what?

Damian : *to the others* I'll be in the stands rooting for you all.
Polytropos : We'll make up for it.
Kataramene : *puts her cloak in a room*

Lazyzeus : You can just hear the voice of the announcer from above. The crowd appears to be quite significant at this point.

Damian : That's our cue. Good luck everybody.
Eleni : *w* Hey.
Polytropos : *whew*
Eleni : *w* Where are our rivals staying?
Damian : *w* around the corner.
Damian : Oh! I forgot something.
Polytropos : ... we've fought sorcerors and metal minotaurs, right?
Andreas Appolodorus: That we did.
Eleni : *Navigates through the room, unseen and hopefully unheard*
Damian : *w* at the end of the hall. The door is locked.
Telemachus : There's not usually so much of an audience.
Eleni : *w* Katara. Don't jump.
Kataramene : *goes through some practice swings with the unfamiliar items... and totally doesn't look to her left*
Damian : *checks over the paperwork* Good. I got it all. Good luck everybody.

Lamachus : Citizens of Argos! Honored guests! Foreign barbarians! Welcome to the Games of Argos! We open with a musical performance by the Singers of Euledios!

Polytropos : Have a good one.
Eleni : *w* Where did Eumenius' men go?
Leonidas : *peaks thru grate to make sure area is clear*
Kataramene : *in her practising seems to point at the door*
Telemachus : *starts doing some dynamic stretching*

Lazyzeus : *shouts* Bring out the warriors!

Eleni : *Listens at door, with aid of the amplify tube thingy*
Leonidas : *w* I've unlocked the door.
Polytropos : It's now or never, I guess.
Kataramene : *is definitely still practising and not watching the door at all, no way*
Damian : *finds a comfortable spot to sit*
Polytropos : *readies to enter the arena*
Kataramene : *with what really wasn't a backward glance of concern heads to the arena steps*

Lamachus : All right, thank you, thank you! Now for the prelimnary rounds! Pallas of Argos, against Gregos the Macedonian!

Eleni : *Shakes her head* Can't make out anything...
Leonidas : *w* very big guard just beyond this door.
Eleni : But they're in there.
Leonidas : *shrugs*
Polytropos : Gods be with us all.
Kataramene : *significant looks at Pol, then in the direction of the door*
Leonidas : *w* I can't see sneaking by unnoticed.
Leonidas : the door opening will certainly cause suspicion.
Polytropos : Hey, good luck, Pallas!
Eleni : *w* They might hbe..
Eleni : *w* They might be heading out soon.
Kataramene : Do your best!
Leonidas : *continues watching thru the grill to see what he can see*
Polytropos : *intent on watching the fight through the grille, seemingly.*
Telemachus : Ugh hope he doesn't get too badly mauled.
Kataramene : *stands and does the same as Pol*
Eleni : *w* Unless that chamber leads to its own exit...
Polytropos : What do you think?
Andreas Appolodorus: Empty your minds.
Kataramene : He's not got a lot of experience against that one.
Leonidas : *w* yes I'm sure there's an exit, one of their warriors just walked out.
Eleni : Right.. maybe we could cut across the arena?
Kataramene : He's huge.
Polytropos : Big one, yeah...
Leonidas : *w* I don't follow you.
Kataramene : *squints out, with a vague frown of concern*

Lazyzeus : Those below can only see a bit of the arena above. The crowd lets out a roar as the combatants arrive.

[Karvon]

Lazyzeus : Meanwhile, under the Arena...

Damian : I'd like to place some bets.
Eleni : *Curses*
Leonidas : *listens*
Kataramene : *looks at Pallas grimly*
Andreas Appolodorus: Wait for me here.
Polytropos : We've got this.
Lazyzeus : Let me set up the betting first.
Polytropos : Kat, isn't that your usual shield?
Hasdrubal: Greetings adventures!
Telemachus : *rolling shoulders etc, dynamic stretching*
Leonidas : *smiles*
Damian : Greetings. I would like to place some bets.
Hasdrubal: Are you ready on this glorius day?
Andreas Appolodorus: Oh the slaves are cleaning the arena too many teeth on the ground.
Eleni : *Whispers* Okay...
Damian : I am. I just hope my fighters are as well.
Hasdrubal: *wide smile* but of course! Roll up! Roll up!
Polytropos : Here.
Eleni : *W* I might need some help, here.
Kataramene : Got this pretty one.
Polytropos : Go for the whole 'amazon' image.
Damian : *counts out coins* I'd like to place 310 on each of my fighters: Kataramene, Telemachus, Polytropos, and Andreas.
Hasdrubal: So, what kind of coin are we talking about here?
Kataramene : *looks at him calculating, tilts her head, then takes the shield*
Polytropos : *grins*
Eleni : *w* ...hello? Uncovering conspiracies, here. Remember?
Polytropos : *nod*
Kataramene : Does this mean I'm supposed to bare bosum in the fight?
Telemachus : *looks around* uhm..
Hasdrubal: 310? *tisks* Round out the coin my dear man
Lamachus : Citizens of Argos!
Eleni : *w* Yeah. Right here.
Telemachus : *acts like he's talking to andreas* what's going on then?
Hasdrubal: 300 or shall we say more?
Lamachus : Let us pause to appreciate the sacrifice we have just witnessed.
Damian : 300 each then.
Eleni : *w* They've got a guard right next to their door. No getting in without making it obvious, even like this.
Andreas Appolodorus: Think they may bring fresh sand too.
Polytropos : *nods.*
Lamachus : It saddens us when the Arena sees such a loss.
Hasdrubal: *rolls his eyes* Are you sure you can spare that much?
Damian : Do you want our coin or not?
Eleni : *w* I either need a really good distraction... or a to march across the arena to their end.
Lamachus : But the contest must continue, to honor this brave warrior's sacrifice.
Telemachus : Well, what can we do from here? we'll be going up to fight shortly..
Hasdrubal: Would 400 be a more manly bet? Or perhaps 500?
Telemachus : oh..
Leonidas : *smiles*
Polytropos : Clever...
Lamachus : Now that the preliminaries are over, we continue to the main event!
Eleni : *w* Then maybe keeping the gate clear for me is the only thing you can do. I'll be fine. Probably.
Damian : *crosses arms* I said 300.
Telemachus : Andreas is about to go out, you could slip out with him?
Hasdrubal: *wide smiles, tense eyes*
Lamachus : We have a new House participating in today's matches.
Eleni : *w* Might have to cause a scene once I get there. Possibly involving fire.
Hasdrubal: Done! *spits on hand and extends it*
Damian : *does the same.*
Kataramene : *glances over her shoulder and raises an eyebrow*
Lamachus : Against these newcomers, the veterans of the Arena, House Eumenides!
Eleni : *w* Leo's gone and given up, but I guess that's just as well. More spells for me.
Polytropos : If you can get some evidence...
Telemachus : Try not to burn the arena down with everyone in it...
Lazyzeus : *applause from the audience*
Eleni : *w* The arena's made of stone! I was thinking more of sabotaging them, whatever they're doing.
Hasdrubal: Tis a good beginning. Perhaps you might change your mind for the next round?

Lamachus : I give you, in the first bout... Andreas Appolodorus... versus... Anaxus the Giant!
Lazyzeus : *loud applause*

Eleni : *w* Here we go... good luck, Andreas.
Polytropos : Gods be on your side, man.
Telemachus : welp, you'd better do it welll, we're about to go..
Hasdrubal: *turns to face the arena*
Damian : We'll see.
Leonidas : So, um which fighters are offering the longest odds of winning the tournment from the heroes and the eumide whatever house?
Kataramene : *watches him go, and nods at the unseen steps*
Polytropos : ... oh dear.
Anaxus: *cracks knuckles*
Kataramene : What happened?
Andreas Appolodorus: Thank you.
Damian : *yells to Andreas* Show him what you're made of, Andreas!
Anaxus: *a little trail of spit drools from the corner of his mouth*
Anaxus: *charges*
Damian : Good hit!
Lamachus : Combatants.. prepare to... oh!
Lamachus : The fight has begun!
Damian : Knock him out!
Polytropos : Haha! Sucker punch.
Leonidas : um or is betting closed?
Kataramene : *watches out of the doorway*
Leonidas : *turns to watch*
Telemachus : *also watching*
Andreas Appolodorus: Hey

Lamachus : Ladies and gentlemen, we have a victor!

Polytropos : Hahaha!
Andreas Appolodorus: Is he all right

Lazyzeus : The priest tends to the injured man*

Polytropos : Oh man. That was great. Hahaha.
Telemachus : Already?
Kataramene : The giant came tumbling down?
Eleni : *Watches behind pillar, quiet as she can*
Telemachus : Andreas hardly looks touched either..
Telemachus : lets hope all our bouts are as successful.
Lamachus : Citizens... the mighty Andreas!
Polytropos : *cracking up*
Hasdrubal: Your man done well
Leonidas : *whistles*
Kataramene : *frowns* It seems all to conveniant.
Damian : Of course he did.
Polytropos : Oh, man... my sides... 'the Giant'...
Andreas Appolodorus: * bows to the audiance *
Leonidas : Yeah, he gets lucky now and then.
Eleni : *Readies listening devic*
Hasdrubal: The brute was over confident though
Andreas Appolodorus: Can I go now?
Leonidas : That always helps.
Hasdrubal: Perhaps the next round will offer a better contest
Damian : *pumps fist at Andreas*
Hasdrubal: Care to increase the wager?
Leonidas : So um should I wait to bet after this round then>
Andreas Appolodorus: * shows some muscles *
Polytropos : *grins*
Hasdrubal: There's aways room to make things more....interesting
Damian : *cups hand next to mouth* Quit showing off, Andreas.
Andreas Appolodorus: * wave the crowd and return below *
Telemachus : You don't think their man took a dive, do you?
Polytropos : It looked like Andreas punched him out before the fight started.
Leonidas : which fighters are offering the longest odds of winning the tourney from our team and this other Eumides ,, or whatever his name is?
Polytropos : But hey! I'm good with that.
Eleni : *Eyes fall on the chest behind the grate, on the other side of the room...*
Lamachus : An excellent, if... brief, match.
Kataramene : I don't know, I just have a sense of something hanging.
Andreas Appolodorus: I WON!
Telemachus : Hey! there's our boy!
Telemachus : We saw!
Polytropos : Nice! What happened out there?
Telemachus : You hardly let the guy say "go"
Kataramene : Well done. Good footwaork there. *pat on back as he walks past*
Andreas Appolodorus: Nothing I just stunned the giant.
Polytropos : Awesome.

Lamachus : Our next combat... the brave Polytropos the Spartan!

Polytropos : Woo!
Polytropos : Wish me luck!
Kataramene : *looks at Pol*
Telemachus : *lowers voice to a whisper* hey, did you take off your magic items?
Andreas Appolodorus: Good luck!
Telemachus : GO POL!
Kataramene : All of it, except the bit I need.

Lazyzeus : *announcer* His foe... Gregos the Macedonian!

Polytropos : *waves his spear to the crowd*
Damian : Word of advice, Pol: don't get hit!
Polytropos : Bring it!
Eleni : *Watches*
Kataramene : *bites her lip a little*
Leonidas : GO POL!
Polytropos : Some MaceDO, some MaceDON'T.
Priest of Hermes: Let the bout commence!
Telemachus : Pols probably got the best defence of any of us.
Eleni : *Stays close*
Damian : *shakes head*
Eleni : *Snatches the draught - or tries to*
Polytropos : Come on, man! What, you afraid?
Kataramene : Yes, I know. Just still wondering about the tricks.
Gregos: Now I... fight... you.
Polytropos : Great!
Andreas Appolodorus: Oh I did not see any trick, sorry.
Polytropos : *readies himself*
Gregos: I think I smash you down.
Eleni : *Grumble*
Lamachus : Combatants, take your places!
Polytropos : Yeah, we'll see.
Eleni : *w, to Pol* He drank something. Don't know what.
Lamachus : Ready...
Kataramene : Not taking your victory away from you, Andreas, he might have been using one and you got your smack in first.
Eleni : *w* Hah... okay...
Gregos : GGaaaah!
Gregos: *bull rush*
Eleni : *w* Sorry, Andreas, but the one you were fighting hadn't taken his medecine.
Polytropos : *dances to one side*
Kataramene : *looks at the sound of the whisper of clothing*
Polytropos : Guh!
Eleni : *w* This one has. I saw him, but didn't manage to take it from him.
Gregos : HAHAAAAAAAAAARRRGGGGHHH!
Telemachus : what is it?
Eleni : *w* Some sort of draught...
Telemachus : Ye gods that's a lot of screaming.
Kataramene : *stares out of the door*
Telemachus : sounds like me.
Gregos : *bleeding from the nose* SSSSMMMMAAAAAASSSSSSSHHHHH!
Polytropos : Come on, man, I could do this all day!
Damian : *watches Gregos*
Eleni : *w* ...might be the reason he's this... mad.
Hasdrubal: He's tearing lumps off him!
Gregos : You stop jumping around!
Kataramene : Enraged?
Gregos: Ha!
Andreas Appolodorus: Some kind of war cry.
Polytropos : Gnh!
Kataramene : *winces as a blow falls*
Gregos: Ouch!
Eleni : *w* Maybe. It doesn't have to be magic to do something like this...
Gregos: Me do crush to your head!
Kataramene : Herbs? Drugs?
Kataramene : Something like those mushrooms?
Telemachus : Some of us are just born like that.
Eleni : *w* Possibly. It's still cheating, and now we know they're doing it.
Kataramene : Need to let someone know. Can you get hold of the stuff?
Polytropos : Yaha!
Gregos: Ouch! That hurt!
Gregos: Make you bleed!
Polytropos : *pants*
Gregos: Oook!
Kataramene : *tenses when another blow gets through*
Eleni : *w* Their trainer keeps the stuff on his person. Tried to grab it from the fighter before he used it, but I'm not Pol or Leo.
Damian : *motions Leo over*
Leonidas : yeah
Kataramene : He's breakind down Pol's defense, and Pol's faster than any of us.
Damian : *w* I think I saw Gregos take something before he came out.
Eleni : *w* Might have more luck with the next one...
Telemachus : shame one of them wasn't with you, they could have switched it for something else.
Gregos: Why you not... go down.
Polytropos : Could say the same -
Leonidas : Um, so?
Damian : Pol!
Polytropos : ...
Polytropos : Ha!
Damian : Our man got lucky.
Eleni : *Grins*
Polytropos : *pant pant*
Leonidas : Always helps
Polytropos : What... what happened there?
Telemachus : I never noticed just how much Pol talks when he fights.
Priest of Hermes: *checks for pulse and shakes his head*
Polytropos : *grins*
Telemachus : He never bloody shuts up.
Polytropos : Are you not entertained?
Damian : Did you and Eleni find anything?
Kataramene : *relaxes a little* Not sure what would ever make him shut up.
Polytropos : ARE YOU NOT ENTERTAINED!

Priest of Hermes: *waves to a couple of slaves to take the body*

Leonidas : Didn't see anything from the bit I observed.
Damian : No! Now bring on a real fighter! *grins*
Andreas Appolodorus: Who won?
Polytropos : *puzzled.*

Lazyzeus : *slaves carry off the corpse of the big macedonian*

Leonidas : If they're getting something, it must be just before they come in in the tunnel.
Polytropos : *gestures with his spear again*
Kataramene : Is he dead?
Damian : Probably from the trainer.
Polytropos : Thanks.
Leonidas : likely
Telemachus : *peers* he's certianly not looking good..
Kataramene : Pol. The Macedonian just got carried out.
Hasdrubal: *Holds a whispered conversation with his neighbor*
Polytropos : Yeah, I know.
Damian : Hopefully Pol can nab whatever it is.
Telemachus : What happened out there? we can barely see from here.
Eleni : *Wince*
Polytropos : Something wasn't right. I'm pretty sure I didn't strike a death blow. He just... keeled over.
Kataramene : *smacks Pol with the flat of a sword*
Leonidas : Surprised the arena doesn't have staff watching for such, or maybe theyve been paid off.
Polytropos : He barely felt what hits I did give him.
Polykleitos: *nods and moves away
Telemachus : Eleni said they gave him something..
Polytropos : Hey, heh, ow.
Telemachus : a potion..
Polytropos : Yeah, that makes sense...
Kataramene : Something that burns out if you keep them busy?
Andreas Appolodorus: What? Are they losing on purpose? Did they bet on us or something?
Polytropos : Hey, what?
Damian : If it's right before they come out, it'd be easy to hide.
Polytropos : You didn't see me out there, man, I was fighting light!
Polytropos : It's like his keart gave out or something.
Leonidas : Not if they had staff escort them to the exit directly.
Polytropos : I totally would have had him, though.
Damian : I'd rather not make any accusations without proof. Still, that's two for our guys.
Polytropos : I think if we can outlast these barbarians, they'll collapse.
Eleni : *Motions Pol over*
Leonidas : Right, hasn't seemed to make a difference so far.

Lazyzeus : *announcer* We must continue, citizens. The next fight involves a veteran soldier, and one of our past champions of the ring!

Kataramene : Tel stands a chance then, but I don't have your speed.
Damian : Let's hope Kat and Tel have the same luck.
Eleni : *w* I couldn't take the potion from your opponent. Too slow. You might have better luck, though. I can make you invisible...
Telemachus : Just keep hitting them, their guard will be poor if they're enraged.
Polytropos : ... tricky...
Telemachus : Maybe go for some trips.
Polytropos : Can but try.
Eleni : *w* Pretty tricky. Your call. You proved it isn't impossible to face them, even like this...
Damian : I wonder why the giant didn't take it? I guess he lacked the mental facility to keep it hidden.
Polytropos : We'll see.

Lazyzeus : From the village of... Mentia, Telemachus!

Leonidas : Maybe he did?
Polytropos : *sneaks in behind Tel.
Telemachus : Here goes!
Leonidas : Looks like he was stunned right off though.

Lazyzeus : *announcer* And from the distant lands of Nubia... Shaba!

Leonidas : and never recovered
Damian : After he missed his first punch on Andreas.
Kataramene : *again watches with a concerned frown*
Damian : Tel's a strong fighter, so he should do well.
Shaba: *frowns as something nudges him but fails*
Polytropos : *silently curses.*
Polytropos : *peeks into the other training area.*
Shaba: *looks coldly at Telemachus*
Priest of Hermes: *scans both men for magic, then nods*

Lamachus : Combatants... fight with honor!

Damian : Hey!
Shaba: I will defeat you, warrior.
Damian : *motions the priest over*
Telemachus : try.
Damian : I saw that warrior drink something!
Polykleitos: *whispers and nods affirmatively*
Polytropos : *grimaces as he bungles it, and scarpers*
Leonidas : hmm
Shaba: *stands back*
Leonidas : that didn't go so well
Damian : He cheated.
Shaba: *salutes the crowd*
Polytropos : *low* ... couldn't get it.
Eleni : Hm....

Telemachus : *curses and walks off without answering*
Polytropos : Could just try and trip them as they come in.
Kataramene : What happened?
Eleni : *w* We can try again, yes. Just need the proof...
Andreas Appolodorus: You're back!
Polytropos : A spilled bottle'll do that.
Telemachus : *hurls axe and shield accross the room*
Polytropos : *wince*
Kataramene : Tel?
Andreas Appolodorus: How did you fair?
Polytropos : *low* Might need to hurry.
Hasdrubal: *looks towards damien and Leo and waves*
Damian : Poor Tel. It wasn't his fault. I bet he's blaming himself for his loss.
Eleni : *w* Hold on. Let me cloak you again..
Telemachus : The priest stood and watch him drink his little potion, and then he beat the hades out of me that's what happened.
Damian : Yeah?
Hasdrubal: Ah Ha! Your man was outclassed in that last bout
Kataramene : The priest watched?
Andreas Appolodorus: Potion? What potion?
Damian : Uh-huh.
Telemachus : Well I bloody noticed him drink something from accross the arena, I don't know how he could have missed it.
Hasdrubal: Perhaps this is a good time to double your wager?
Damian : Uh, no.
Polytropos : *readies himself for plan B...*
Hasdrubal: Nothing ventured, nothing gained!
Damian : Hasdrubal's doing it, Leo.
Kataramene : *breathes deeply and stretches a little, then braces*
Leonidas : Doing what?
Damian : The cheating.
Leonidas : How?

Lamachus : Citizens! The last of the preliminary matches!

Andreas Appolodorus: Are you sure?
Damian : No, but he rubs me the wrong way.
Lamachus : We have something unique! An Amazon warrior from the legends!
Eleni : *Can't help but smile at that*

Lamachus : Kataramene!
Lamachus : And her opponent... Bloody Haemon!

Kataramene : *walks out, trying to look proud warrior like*
Polytropos : *readies himself to just plain trip over the guy rather than let him drink.*
Leonidas : Kat's gonna need the gods as that guys won the tourney several times in the past.
Damian : *waves at Kat* No, she needs a fair fight.
Telemachus : I bloody hope Leo gets the potion away from this one.
Telemachus : He looked like the worst.
Kataramene : Where is he, is he too frightened?
Telemachus : Did I say Leo? I meant Pol.
Polytropos : *allez-oop!*

Lazyzeus : *stumbles*
Kataramene : .... what?
Lazyzeus : *spills something under his body*

Bloody Haemon: *smiles a saucy smile* Waiting for me......honey?
Leonidas : hmm
Kataramene : With footwork like that I can wait a little longer.
Damian : *points at the puddle*
Polytropos : *hastily looks for a bottle.*
Damian : Did he just wet himself?
Leonidas : seems like it.
Damian : I bet that's what they're drinking.
Bloody Haemon: I'm looking forward to getting the best from you.....here..or later *winks*
Priest of Hermes: *waves his staff over both fighters*
Leonidas : likely so
Priest of Hermes: *nods*
Polytropos : *wince*
Eleni : *w* Erm, so....
Polytropos : ... didn't get it, but... well, at least he didn't drink any.
Andreas Appolodorus: Who are we going to fight in the next round?
Damian : Get him, Kat!
Kataramene : Down.
Damian : *yells*
Polytropos : It's down to Kataramene to take him down now-
Eleni : *w* Small victorious. I can cloak you twice more. That won't leave me any chance to leave, myself, but I'm sure we can't think of something...
Telemachus : I don't know, their best against our best I suppose?
Kataramene : Because your nose bleeds in the sand?
Polytropos : Well, there's still that one guy. The Numidian.
Eleni : *w* We've rounds after this, right? Even if Kat loses, that's two of ours to the next round, two of theirs.
Kataramene : Really?
Telemachus : I'm out of the running, at any rate.
Polytropos : I think so.
Damian : Never underestimate a woman, Leo.
Leonidas : Indeed
Kataramene : Well it's not going to be me today, sweetheart.
Damian : Especially not ours. *grins*
Telemachus : I don't do well with toy swords and cheaters.
Bloody Haemon: You... you.... *snarls and strides off*
Telemachus : *bitter grumbling*
Kataramene : Oh ... by the way, I only like the best.
Kataramene : Thank you.
Damian : *whistles*
Eleni : *Grins, W* From the sound of things...
Hasdrubal: *smashes one fist into the palm of the other*
Kataramene : *rasies a her sword and punches the air with that arm, satisfied grin in place*

Bloody Haemon : *whining voice from the other chambers* They cheated!
Polytropos : Hahaha!
Eumenius : Keep your voice down, fool!
Polytropos : Nice!
Kataramene : He seemed to fall over a lot.
Damian : So that's three of our four still in the game.
Leonidas : Indeed
Telemachus : *snort*
Telemachus : wonder why.
Eleni : *Silent clapping in the background*

Lazyzeus : *announcer* Ladies and gentlemen, we have the stirrings of an upset here today!

Andreas Appolodorus: You won?
Leonidas : were there other houses?
Telemachus : Well done Kat.
Polytropos : *huge grin*
Damian : I think they already fought.
Kataramene : *looks at Andreas and lifts an eyebrow*

Lazyzeus : *announcement* Our championship round, for the title of Victor of the Games, is coming up!

Leonidas : ah
Leonidas : so we have 3 of the final 4 spots?
Damian : Hopefully our guys can keep the other house from cheating more, especially that Nubian.
Polytropos : Can we send- aw.
Hasdrubal: *heckles Damein and co* Not to late to make your mark on these games!
Damian : Yeah: Kat, Anreas, and Pol. Tel should be there as well.
Telemachus : He uses a bloody great club and a shield.
Polytropos : Obviously. Listen, they're drinking something out there.
Damian : Can we throw Hasrubal into the arena?
Polytropos : Some sort of herb stuff, I don't know.
Polytropos : Hmf.
Polytropos : Working on it.
Polytropos : Alright, who's going out there?
Andreas Appolodorus: I can.
Telemachus : You probably suffer the least from this kind of fight. being that you don't use weapons anyway.
Damian : I wish I had a sample of whatever it is they're taking. Maybe I could find out what's in it and use it for our guys in combat.
Kataramene : If they pull the same stunt as before we need the one who can stay upright longest.
Telemachus : this is also true..
Polytropos : No, that's fine. Go for it, Andreas.
Andreas Appolodorus: Who else?
Telemachus : It's only one person.
Eleni : *w* Hold on...
Polytropos : *nods at Eleni.*
Eleni : *Holds listening device to the door*
Kataramene : *looks disappointed*
Andreas Appolodorus: How about Kat?
Polytropos : *blocks Peleus's PoV.*
Telemachus : Wouldn't you like to fight again Kat?
Telemachus : This one has a good defence. blocks well.
Eleni : *Motions to Pol*
Kataramene : *sighs a little* We need to pick who has the best chance.
Eleni : *w* 'Can't take any chance... take it before you go into the arena...."
Telemachus : I'm not sure Pol could hit him at all.
Polytropos : ... aaah...
Eleni : *w* 'Only one dose.'
Eleni : Maybe you can get in if you hurry.
Polytropos : *sneak sneak*
Eleni : *Keeps listening*
Polytropos : *sneak*
Damian : What are they waiting for?
Leonidas : *shrugs*
Polytropos : *lurk*
Polytropos : *quiet breathing.*
Andreas Appolodorus: I can go the Gods are with me today.
Damian : I hope they figure it out soon before we get accused of holding up the games.
Polytropos : *readies for the grab...*
Leonidas : *shrugs*
Polytropos : *wilently hopes this spell lasts.*
Kataramene : I could argue, but .. *shrugs as if she really doesn't care and wanders off*
Eleni : *Ready to bust in if something goes terribly wrong....*
Telemachus : One moment, if spirits are legal..

Lazyzeus : *announcer* We have the matchup for the final fight. Andreas Appolodorus!

Andreas Appolodorus: What's that?
Polytropos : *poised!*
Telemachus : Break his ugly nose.
Telemachus : Lucky wine.
Damian : About time. Hopefully Andreas can knock the guy out again.
Andreas Appolodorus: You sure it's allowed?

Lazyzeus : HIs opponent, Shaba the Nubian!

Telemachus : He just said spirits were ok?
Polytropos : *wince*
Kataramene : *folds arms looking huffy*
Telemachus : *whispers after him* might want to drink it serruptitiously still
Telemachus : What's wrong with you?

Lazyzeus : Night begins to fall as the last fight is announced.

Kataramene : *sniffs and just looks at the door*
Eleni : *w* What happened...?
Polytropos : No luck, 'm afraid.
Lamachus : Andreas....
Eleni : *Curses* And we're too late, now?
Polytropos : Yeah.
Andreas Appolodorus: Sir I was offered some wine is that permitted?
Polytropos : Andreas'll just have to beat him.
Andreas Appolodorus: * show the bottle *
Damian : What is he doing?
Eleni : *Sighs* Or outlast him.... sounded like they were given him a heavy dose.
Andreas Appolodorus: Ah keep it for me then.
Eleni : And he said he wasn't feeling too good.
Leonidas : Who knows?
Telemachus : *rolls his eyes*
Shaba: *bangs club against sheild as a sign to hurry up*
Telemachus : he gave it to the priest.
Polytropos : Maybe Andreas can stun his wits.
Eleni : Still, that leaves us without proof. He'll just be able to do this all over again next time with fresh competitors.

Lamachus : The final contest! Let us begin!

Damian : Ouch.
Damian : Woohoo!
Leonidas : Wow

Lamachus : A victor! Such bravery!

Andreas Appolodorus: Ah Ah
Polytropos : Yeah, but we can tell the Councillors...
Damian : *whistles and stamps feet*
Eleni : *Blinks at the cheers*
Eleni : ...that was fast.
Telemachus : *trys to see what happened*
Polytropos : Heh, well well.
Leonidas : Go collect your winnings
Polytropos : He's a tournament machine.
Shaba: You fought with much honor.
Andreas Appolodorus: You fought bravely.
Kataramene : *folds arms the other way, shifts her hips, and humphs again*
Polytropos : You coulda taken him faster. *wink*
Telemachus : He's only gone and done it
Eleni : *Grins*
Leonidas : *smiles*
Eumenius : What do you mean, you lost?
Damian : *to Hasdrubal* What were the odds on Andreas again?
Hasdrubal: *doesn't look at all happy*
Leonidas : 5 to 1 as I recall
Telemachus : He better bring my bloody wine back.
Kataramene : *sniffs a little, half-mollified expression, and shifts pose again*
Damian : *holds out hand* So that's 1500.
Andreas Appolodorus: It is done.
Polytropos : *applauds*
Hasdrubal: 5:1? Who said that?
Eleni : *Silent thumbs up*
Telemachus : Good job Andreas.
Kataramene : Well done. *huffy tone*
Polytropos : Nice!
Leonidas : Maybe it was 6:1? I'd have to go look at the posting I saw earlier.
Damian : You did before the games started.
Andreas Appolodorus: No trick this time I just went in fast with as many blow as I could.
Polytropos : Sounds good to me!
Hasdrubal: Na, na....no one said 5:1. I claerly remember 2 for 1
Telemachus : He doesn't have a collar..
Kataramene : *sniffs again*
Damian : Not, it was 5:1 for Andreas.
Telemachus : he doesn't even have a shirt..
Leonidas : *eyes narrow*
Eleni : *Heads back up*
Leonidas : Perhaps we should take you to the town council as a welcher?

Lamachus : Citizens of Argos! It has been a long day, one for the ages!

Hasdrubal: Here....*holds out a coin pouch* Take this and be thankful (200gp)
Polytropos : *holds his spear aloft*

Lamachus : We have a new champion!

Eleni : *Joins Damian and Leo, grinning*
Kataramene : *poses, just so, still huffy*
Damian : *glances at the coin pouch* It was a 300 gold bet.
Lamachus : To the winners go the prizes.
Myrtis: *Myrtis hands them over*
Damian : *takes the pouch*
Damian : Pleasure doing business with you.
Hasdrubal: *Turns to his companion* Pay them what they're owned

Lamachus: For honor in battle... prizes for the victors in the afternoon matches...
Lamachus: *hands over small warrior statues*

Polytropos : *big muck-eatin' grin*
Telemachus : *stands there with quiet chagrin*
Kataramene : *accepts it, trying to look regal*
Polytropos : *holds it up!*
Eleni : *Claps and cheers*
Andreas Appolodorus: * take statue * Thank you.
Damian : *waves*
Polytropos : *says 'booooo' under his breath*
Eleni : Haha! Someone's a sore loser...
Polytropos : Yeeeah it is.
Kataramene : *gives a lazy grin*
Damian : *w* Did you find out what they were drinking, Eleni?
Hasdrubal: There will be another day....mark my words
Polytropos : Woooo!
Polytropos : Now he has two things to wear!
Eleni : *w* No... Pol managed to sabotage Kat's bout, but none of the others. Didn't stop Andreas from winning, though...
Damian : Sure, if you want to be beaten again, Hasdrubal.
Andreas Appolodorus: * bows *

Lamachus : Hail to the victor of the Games!

Kataramene : *beats sword on shield lightly in applause, /still/ looking huffy*
Polytropos : *cheer*
Eleni : *w* This is satisfying, but we just don't have /proof/.
Damian : *w* I saw that. Not that it helped them any.

Lazyzeus : With the Games concluded, the crowds file out and return to their homes.

Damian : *w* Ah well. Maybe next time we'll have better luck.
Andreas Appolodorus: * Show trophy around *
Polytropos : Heh.
Eleni : Or the time after that. We might be stuck in Thrace for a month or two.
Eleni : Hail the victor, though!
Leonidas : Well done team!
Damian : Good show!

Lamachus: Well. You didn't get proof of Eumenius's activities, but at least we know now he's been up to something.
Polytropos : We all did well!
Damian : *slaps Andreas on the shoulder* It's about time all that muscle came in handy.
Lamachus: And you won, that's something.
Eleni : Yes. He's humbled, if nothing else...
Polytropos : We did try. It's some sort of stuff they're drinking. Maybe next games?
Eleni : But that might just drive him to even more nefarious methods.
Lamachus: I wouldn't underestimate him. He may try something to get back at you.
Damian : I saw a few of the fighters drink something before their match.
Kataramene : Someone somewhere is supplying them with a potion that's not magic.
Telemachus : He'll probably make more trouble later.
Polytropos : Oh, oh no. What will we do.
Eleni : A man like that, I wouldn't be surprised.
Lamachus: To be honest, we may take a few months off. The Games are not supposed to be some sort of death-match. Two deaths in one day...
Damian : Let him come after us, he won't have any priests to help him when he does.
Eleni : Yes...
Polytropos : Well, that might at least leave him without an income.
Andreas Appolodorus: This was good but don't we need to prepare for our next trip?
Eleni : The second death, I think, might have been due to the potion.
Lamachus: Well. I know you have a boat to catch tomorrow.
Eleni : It seems to have its side-effects....
Lamachus: Fare you well on your journey.
Leonidas : Yeah killing one of his guys won't endear us to him.
Eleni : ...actually.
Damian : *nods* Thank you, sir.
Eleni : I wonder if an investigation of the body might reveal anything unusual.
Andreas Appolodorus: And where is our gold?
Lamachus: I have the update to your credentials *gives them to Eleni, an introduction to King Sparos of Thrace*
Eleni : *Nods*
Kataramene : Worth a try.
Damian : *holds up a coin pouch* I have it.
Lamachus: I will update the Council on your progress. Good night.
Eleni : Good night.

Andreas Appolodorus: Well if you want to examine corpses let's do that first.
Eleni : I assume we will be leaving tomorrow?
Leonidas : Guess we can go home and celebrate.
Damian : We got 1500 from Andreas' win and I still have the 500 from Pol and what Andreas gave me.
Eleni : Hah.. I don't think we can get our hands on the body, and I am no doctor, besides.
Eleni : It was just a suggestion, in case the councilor had some notion. But yes! Celebration.
Kataramene : Did no one bet on me?
Damian : I bet on all of you, but Andreas is the one that won the games.
Kataramene : *humphs*
Eleni : The betting seems somewhat off, if you have to factor in who the winning team happens to pick for a champion.
Eleni : But then, I suppose that's gambling for you....
Kataramene : Whatever!
Andreas Appolodorus: You could give back what we put in and share the remaining equally. I would not mind.
Polytropos : Ah well.
Damian : *shrugs* We still more than doubled our money.
Eleni : *Smirks* Maybe we can have a little venegance match at the villa?
Polytropos : A good day's work!
Polytropos : Ha!
Eleni : The Mighty Amazon versus the Oiled Giant!
Kataramene : *glares*
Eleni : What? I'm trying to help, here.
Polytropos : In your own, special way.
Eleni : Humph. Well, I can do no more than that...
Kataramene : *stomps along*

Epistor : You ungrateful wench!
Polytropos : Come! Where is the victory feast?
Epistor : *smacks the girl hard*
Eleni : Good even - um, is something wrong?
Polytropos : Y-
Kataramene : *stomp stomp halt*

Lazyzeus : You enter to find Epistor beating Melina on the face and shoulders*

Polytropos : What.
Kataramene : What's going on?
Eleni : Of what?
Andreas Appolodorus: What is this?
Damian : *folds arms*
Epistor: I have only found out today.
Kataramene : An explaination would be worth while right now.
Eleni : I am going to have to ask you to elaborate.
Epistor: I have learned that Melina was speaking to one of the men from that man's house.
Melina: *head rises and has a look of defiance about her*
Epistor: The Macedonian, the big one.
Kataramene : *looks past Epistor at Melina*
Epistor: I had no idea, I swear to you!
Eleni : *Raises brow*
Damian : *looks at Melina* Is this true?
Kataramene : Time for /you/ to elaborate.
Polytropos : Wait, the dead one?
Andreas Appolodorus: Ah may be they are lovers.
Epistor: Dead? You killed him?
Polytropos : Oh. *grimace*
Melina: *Lifts her chin up* What of it?
Polytropos : Well... no, it... it's unclear.
Eleni : Gregos...
Epistor: She is from that land.
Telemachus : The potion he was using to cheat, killed him.
Eleni : That was his name, yes? *Frowns*
Kataramene : So everything we talked about was passed to him?
Melina: Gregos? Is dead?
Damian : Yes he is.
Melina: *not looking so defiant now*
Epistor: If you wish her dead, masters, it is within your right. She betrayed you.
Eleni : I'm afraid so, Melina. We think his heart gave out from the drug he took.
Melina: *eyes fill with tears*
Eleni : Epistor? Please let us handle this, alright?
Kataramene : Thinking about it, Epistor, she's got a little time to talk.
Epistor: Of course. Do you need a switch? I can grab one from the olive tree outside.
Kataramene : *folds her arms*
Eleni : We will make do.
Epistor: Ah, fists then. I understand.
Damian : That won't be necessary, Epistor.
Leonidas : We could sell her and buy a younger more obedient one.
Epistor: *nods gravely at Melina* I hope that you learn your lesson.
Melina: *starts to sob*
Polytropos : *wince.*
Epistor: *nods at Leonidas* If you wish me to make the arrangements, just let me know.
Eleni : And you be quiet, Leo.
Telemachus : We don't own her, the city does.
Telemachus : Let them deal with it.
Kataramene : *frowning, ill-tempered*
Melina: *cries into the palms of her hands*
Polytropos : *mutters* ... man, I was feeling sort-of good about that guy dying until now..
Damian : He brought it on himself, Pol.
Telemachus : He did it to himself.
Kataramene : *looks at him*
Eleni : *Grabs a towel from a nearby cabinet and hands it to her* I'm sorry, Melina.
Damian : I have no pity for him.
Polytropos : Well... YEAH, but...
Melina: He was my countryman... I was stolen from my people!
Kataramene : Because it upset her?
Eleni : We didn't go into the arena today hoping to kill anyone.
Polytropos : Well, yeah.
Eleni : Did you know him well....?
Andreas Appolodorus: I second that Eleni.
Melina: No, not at first... but when he came here... to hear my language spoken again...
Kataramene : *snorts, tosses hair and stalks off*
Melina: When he asked questions about you... Epistor is right. I betrayed you. Do with me what you will.
Andreas Appolodorus: For what it's worth I am sorry for your loss Melina.
Eleni : *Nods* I understand, I think. It must have been the first bit of home you'd encountered in a long time...
Melina: I told him all that I heard, when you were talking here before. About the Games.
Damian : *hands Melina a cup of water*
Polytropos : *scratches head* What, uh, sort of questions were these?
Leonidas : *sits*
Melina: You are not going to sell me, or have me killed?
Eleni : *Sits down next to her* I am not planning on it.
Melina: He asked what you knew about Eumenides, and what you were going to do before the Games.
Eleni : Does that mean he knew we were going to investigate the manor, as well?
Melina: He came by last night, when you were out.
Kataramene : *changes and heads back out, still looking huffy*
Polytropos : *tries for a smile.*
Melina: I did not let him enter... Epistor is a light sleeper! But I told him that you had gone to Eumenides's villa.
Kataramene : *adjusts clothing, preening a little*
Melina: He left in a big hurry.
Eleni : That might explain why Eumenius and his men showed up so early...
Damian : Hmm. That could be when that alarm was set.
Telemachus : You nearly got us killed. But if you'd had not warned them, we might have found out about the drugging sooner, and put a stop to it
Telemachus : and your little friend would still be alive.
Polytropos : *wink*
Melina: *runs off, crying*
Eleni : No, I'm fairly sure that was a ward, Damian. But..
Telemachus : The gods despise a traitor.
Eleni : *Sighs*
Damian : *waves a hand* What's done is done.
Eleni : Delicate as always.
Telemachus : You didn't nearly die today.
Kataramene : No. Has she been dismissed?
Eleni : That wasn't /her/ fault!
Eleni : Are we going to?
Kataramene : Oh? So she was forced to tell him things about us?
Eleni : *Sighs* What would you have done, in her posession? It's not as if we've done anything to earn her loyalty.
Eleni : *position
Kataramene : Nor to dismiss it.
Telemachus : *lays in bed and stares at the ceiling*
Kataramene : She can't be trusted if she *sniffs* tells all for a kiss.
Andreas Appolodorus: Damian the profit we made are you going to divide it?
Damian : *sits on the edge of another bed* It's not your fault, Tel.
Polytropos : Well. It ain't like we're going to be here tomorrow.
Damian : *looks up* Oh? Yeah, hold on. *counts out coins*
Eleni : Do you really want to send her to the slave markets? You know what sort of fate she's likely to have there.
Andreas Appolodorus: Fair enough.
Damian : Divided by six, Andreas.
Andreas Appolodorus: Indeed.
Kataramene : *shifts a little* Then she can't be allowed out to do the same again.
Polytropos : *shrugs*

Lazyzeus : The night passes swiftly in sleep, conversation, and planning. Your ship is scheduled to leave on the morning tide, so you will need to finish any necessary shopping early.


Andreas Appolodorus: Did you talk all night?
Epistor: I understand you are leaving again on another journey, masters.
Polytropos : *yawwwn* What?
Eleni : *Sighs* Indeed.
Polytropos : Yeah... yeah, that#'s right.
Leonidas : *nods*
Epistor: Do you have any instructions for the estate? What should I do with the girl?
Polytropos : What say we do it democratically.
Kataramene : *nods at Damien*
Eleni : And what are we voting on, exactly?
Polytropos : Keeping her, or getting rid of her. Right?
Telemachus : She is not ours.
Telemachus : the slaves and the house belong to the CITY
Eleni : *Nod* She's not. But if we complain about her to the city, they'll get rid of her.
Kataramene : We can choose to keep her in the villa, but if we keep her it's with restrictions.
Telemachus : *hefts purse* thanks..
Andreas Appolodorus: She stays, everyone deserves a second chance.
Kataramene : A second chance to do something that could have left us dead?
Kataramene : If she stays she stays incommunicado until she /can/ be trusted.
Damian : I can understand why she did what she did, but do we want to take a chance on her betraying us again?
Telemachus : Wonderful, we shall have to worry about poison in our food and knives in our backs every time we sleep.
Eleni : We can compromise on that... She's not to leave the manor at least until we return, then?
Eleni : We might be a while, so we can't exactly keep a close eye on her personally.
Damian : *nods* And Epistor, you are not to strike her again.
Andreas Appolodorus: She can attend the garden.
Kataramene : If she can't go out she can't get poison, and as for a knife? She's welcome to try.
Damian : If you have cause to do so, send her to the council and let them deal with her as they will.
Eleni : But the cause had better be a very good one.
Eleni : Tell her we want to forgive her, but that she... *pause*
Kataramene : I think she can be allowed the privacy to do /that/!
Eleni : ...and don't /touch/ her, you filthy old man. Or else you'll be the one we send away.
Polytropos : *rubs his forehead.*
Telemachus : *rolls eyes*
Polytropos : I want to go to Thrace. Can we go to Thrace?
Kataramene : We'd better get ready to leave.
Damian : I'll be with Aias for a bit. Call me when breakfast is ready.
Eleni : Just so we're clear.
Eleni : Right. Very well...
Telemachus : owning a house this size is too much damned effort.
Polytropos : Have a good one.
Andreas Appolodorus: Yes to Thrace.
Eleni : Well. Leave the managing of servants to me, then.
Telemachus : Do we have all we'll need for the journy?
Damian : Aias! Are you enjoying the courtyard?
Eleni : I think we have a good stock of healing supplies. Anything else?
Kataramene : I want to visit the market before the ship sails. *changes etc, and eats, then heads out*
Polytropos : What I don't have, I can pick up when we get there.
Eleni : I don't think the markets of Thrace will be quite so opulent as those of Knossos or Ra-Kedet.
Telemachus : Don't count on it, we've no idea what kind of state the place is in.
Polytropos : Oh, yeah. Alright, then. Lets go.
Eleni : Especially not if things are as bad as we fear, yes...
Eleni : Bought these with the last of our 'shared' money.
Andreas Appolodorus: Did we get the strange bow?
Eleni : Oh, yes.
Eleni : Have it right here. Not much in the way of ammunition, though...
Eleni : What did he call them? 'Death-stickers'?
Damian : Yeah.
Andreas Appolodorus: My house for a horse? No?
Eleni : These Egyptian potions could be quite useful.
Eleni : The protective jewelry, as well, but those are /expensive/.
Damian : *rumages through pack* Let's see...I have 19 kits of various usefullness. Hopefully I won't run out in Thrace. *looks at the others*
Eleni : I'm going to see if I can procure some more 'death-stickers'...
Eleni : Hm? Not keeping this?
Andreas Appolodorus: Me too.
Leonidas : well it's yours
Leonidas : and I don't really need it.
Telemachus : I bought a supply kit. I can heal people with my shield as well so I shan't bother with kits.
Eleni : *Shrugs* I suppose it's yours if ever you need to do a solo infiltration thing again.
Eleni : The listening tool, as well.
Damian : I have three kits, so we're good on supplies.
Leonidas : I've got one as well
Eleni : Hm. These /are/ pretty expensive.
Telemachus : That should be enough then.
Kataramene : *looks at a belt wistfully*
Eleni : I understand /why/ they're expensive, yes.
Leonidas : *nods*
Damian : *stares at the boat before pouring a mug of water and adding herbs to it.*
Eleni : Do not take umbrage at my right to complain, regardless.
Leonidas : *finds a good spot to watch from the bow*
Eleni : And I'll buy the ones you have, anyway, so don't you complain about my complain.
Damian : *quickly downs it and grimaces*
Eleni : *complaining
Damian : *puts the mug away and scratches Aias' ears* Come along, my friend. We're going on another boat trip.
Polytropos : To the ship!
Leonidas : So where is this barge anyhow?

Lazyzeus : Your vessel to Thrace is the oceangoing barge Sea Dragon, under the command of Captain Simonides.

[Karvon]

Lazyzeus : All right, the journey north has been relatively unremarkable. The ship handles slowly and awkwardly, laden as is with supplies.

Polytropos : *watching out the window*
Eleni : *Zzzz*
Damian : *sits at the table trying to keep his breakfast down*
Leonidas : *finds a sunny place to sit on the bow*
Veteran Sailor: We're approaching the Straits of Artemis. That's Attica off there on the left.
Eleni : Hrm... *Rises with a great, big yawn*
Damian : Are we there yet?
Polytropos : All I see is sky, sea, sky, sea...
Polytropos : It's pretty wine-dark out there.
Eleni : That's a no, then. *Stretches her arms*
Eleni : At least we have beds here.
Damian : *holds hand over mouth* Don't remind me...
Eleni : It's quite a step up, really.
Kataramene : From mats on the floor, perhaps.

Lazyzeus : You are making your way along, minding your own business, when the ship shudders slightly, and there is a faint grinding sound from beneath the hull.

Kataramene : What was that?
Damian : Uh...what was that?
Polytropos : ... eh? *looks down*
Andreas Appolodorus: Did you hear that?
Captain Simonides : Ho now! Report? Did we hit a sand bar?
Eleni : Sleeping underneath the stars has a certain appeal to it, but not if you're sleeping on hardwood... hm?
Leonidas : *frowns*
Eleni : oh dear..
Veteran Sailor: No sir! Sounding cord says we're clear!
Eleni : Is there a problem?
Leonidas : *looks around to see what the crew is doing*
Kataramene : Aren't we a bit far out for sand bars?
Polytropos : That sand bar seems to disagree.
Kataramene : Fellow there said we were clear.
Damian : *peers over the deck*
Polytropos : Wow, we're really low in the water...
Eleni : Hmm. Much heavier ship than we're used to, you know.
Eleni : There straights, though, are quite deserving of their name.
Damian : Uh...captain? I thought I saw something...something big.
Kataramene : Where?
Damian : *points into the water*
Telemachus : something big? like the giant sand bar?

Lazyzeus : Water washes over the port rail, but it drains quickly away.

Damian : No, it moved.
Kataramene : *squints into the water and steps back from the water*
Captain Simonides : Damn it, why aren't we moving? Mage? We're paying you a fortune, can you do something?
Polytropos : Sand bars don't move.
Eleni : Lots of presences, here. Quite crowded, all around.

Lazyzeus : There is a mighty splash, and something rises up out of the water!

Kataramene : *low curse and unslings shield and draws sword*
Polytropos : *strings bow -*
Captain Simonides : Sea monster!
Polytropos : Ow!
Andreas Appolodorus: What is that?
Damian : You don't say?
Kataramene : I have no arrows... can't hit it.
Eleni : Another tentacle!
Captain Simonides : Kill it!
Polytropos : Get Leo!
Leonidas : damn
Theron: Ha! Nothing can stand before my magic!
Eleni : Hah... I think... these are only the creature's limbs.
Damian : Everybody okay?
Eleni : /My/ magic, you mean.
Leonidas : NO!
Telemachus : Ye gods. Posidon preserve us!

Lazyzeus : The ship starts moving again.

Kataramene : Can we still sail?
Eleni : We should make haste.
Andreas Appolodorus: I was expecting pirates not sea monsters.
Captain Simonides : Quick, lower sail, get us out of here!
Damian : Quit your whining, Leo.
Polytropos : ... to Leo's credit, he does look pretty in pain.
Eleni : Arms the size of our ship.

Lazyzeus : You move on, and the monster does not reappear.

Leonidas : *sulks below deck*
Eleni : You were fortunate to have me around.
Damian : *leans over the side* I don't see anything else.
Polytropos : ... whew.
Kataramene : *takes some javelins from Pol and watches the water as if this is what she'd been waiting for* I knew I should have got some arrows.
Leonidas : *eases his pain with lots of wine*
Damian : *climbs into bed and looks at Leo* You okay, Leo?
Eleni : How far to our destination at this point, captain..?
Leonidas : a nap helped
Damian : Good. Sorry about the fight, but I couldn't see you in the confusion.
Kataramene : You should be rested in case another appears, Eleni.
Telemachus : We'll take shifts
Leonidas : whatever
Eleni : Of course.
Eleni : *Nods* Best I meditate, yes.
Damian : *pours a glass of wine* Fine. If that's the way you're going to be.
Eleni : *Which is to say, nap*
Kataramene : *strings an old bow and takes some arrows*
Polytropos : *shrugs at Leo.*
Polytropos : Damien, eh. Not much of a people person, ha.
Polytropos : More a... bear person.
Leonidas : Maybe if I had more hair.
Leonidas : *stokes beard*
Eleni : He's not so bad.
Polytropos : More hair? We're all jealous of your locks, man.
Kataramene : Tel, do you have some javelins?
Eleni : It's just that Leo is... Leo.
Telemachus : No, I just took some lead shot
Damian : *downs his glass*
Polytropos : Anyone know any sailor songs?
Leonidas : Don't think they have much time to sing from what I saw.
Telemachus : Thanks

Lazyzeus : The rest of the journey passes without incident. You pass by the island of Thassos to your right, which means that the land to your left is Thrace. It looks rather rugged, with deep forests and rocky cliffs. However, you come to what looks like a large encampment on the seashore. Captain Simonides heads there, although there is already a ship tied up at the solitary dock, so he unloads the ship's boat for you...

Eleni : *Yawns* Hm. Sounds like we're nearing land.
Polytropos : Aha.
Damian : I hope our welcome is more welcome than the one at sea.
Leonidas : *collects things and leaves*

Lazyzeus : You disembark into the small boat and row to the edge of the camp...

Kataramene : Land approaching. *looks disappointed there were no more serpents*
Eleni : Let's not count on it.
Polytropos : We're bringing food! They'll love us.
Thracian Hero : Captain! Outsiders!
Eleni : Well, they don't /look/ like beastmen.
Telemachus : Shame we didn't get a trophy from that thing. Imagine hanging that over your mantle heh
Eleni : They're just wearing them.
Leonidas : Wonder if the women are hot?
Eleni : *Ahem* Greetings, Thracian warriors!
Thracian Hero: *watches you warily*
Damian : *waves*
Thracian Hero: Captain! Greeks!
Eleni : We come from Argos, to bring aid.
Leonidas : *smiles*
Damian : *looks around* Where? Oh.
Thravaxes: Yes, I can see that. So many colors.
Kataramene : *salutes*
Thravaxes: What do you want?
Leonidas : What do you have?
Eleni : To help. You are in command here?
Kataramene : We were sent to aid you.
Thravaxes: The King is in command.
Eleni : Then we would see the King.
Thravaxes: Aid? We sent for aid many months ago. No help came.
Eleni : *Showss diplomatic seal*
Kataramene : Serpents harry the ships.
Thravaxes: *looks at it and shrugs*
Damian : *looks at the others*
Eleni : We know. Yours was not the only call for aid, and it seems our other ships never made it here.
Kataramene : News has been slow reaching Argos.
Thravaxes: Serpents. I hear the sounds of excuses.
Eleni : Are you going to let us help you, or should we turn back?
Kataramene : *develops a glare* Are you calling us liars?
Thravaxes: It is for the King to judge. You will come with me.
Leonidas : I suppose we could go back to Argos and say you didn't want our aid anymore.
Eleni : Very well.
Thracian Hero: Greeks. Always arrogant. *aside to his companion*
Thracian Warrior: Hmph.
Thravaxes: Follow.
Kataramene : *growl*
Eleni : *Just smiles at the grumbling*
Damian : *sighs*
Thravaxes: Put them with the others for now. I will speak to the King.
Thravaxes: Remain vigilant.
Polytropos : *looks round, looking unsettled.*
Kataramene : Hemmed in by the sea.
Leonidas : Others?
Eleni : Nowhere left to run, it seems.
Thracian Craftsman: Brother! I need more metal.
Damian : *looks around* I bet this was beautiful country at one time...
Thravaxes: I believe the last group of refugees had some tools.
Thracian Craftsman: I will speak to the druid.
Thravaxes: I will let the King know of your need.
Kataramene : Hmmm...

Thravaxes: This is no palace such as you are used to.
Thravaxes: But show respect.
Eleni : Naturally.
Thravaxes: Mighty King. These are Greeks from some land.
Hecataeus: Argos, unless I miss my guess, sire.
Kataramene : *bows before him*
King Sparos: Hmm, yes.
Eleni : *Bows before the king* That is correct. Greetings, your highness.
Lazyzeus : The King is much younger than you were led to expect.
King Sparos: I am Sparos. This is Sapphira, my wife.
Kataramene : *looks at the others* Has there been a tragedy?
Polytropos : *wary look at the name*
King Sparos: Do you consider having my lands invaded, my people murdered, our homes burned, and our crops pillaged a tragedy?
Leonidas : *listens*
Polytropos : That's, uh, pretty tragic, yeah.
Hecataeus: Ah, what the King means...
King Sparos: I will speak my own words, magi, as my father did before me.
Kataramene : We do, but you do not match what we were told to expect.
Eleni : War is rarely not tragic.
Damian : *waves a hand* We understand, sire.
Eleni : What my friend means is that we were told to expect King Pharos.
King Sparos: He has moved on to the next life. Slain by the beastmen.
Eleni : I feared as much. I regret we could not join your struggle sooner.
Kataramene : *grim look* We are respectful of your loss.
Polytropos : *grimace.*
King Sparos: The gods have abandoned us.
Sapphira: Nay, do not say that, husband.
Polytropos : Even if they have, Argos hasn't.
Damian : *crosses arms*
Kataramene : They aided us in passing a sea serpent to reach you.
King Sparos: We have lost all. We are organizing here to retreat to Thassos, with what remains of our people.
Leonidas : two actually
Kataramene : So perhaps the tide turns.
Kataramene : The Captain said it was but the legs of one.
Polytropos : *uncomfortable look at the plan of retreat.*
Thravaxes: Perhaps the outsiders do not know what it is they face, Great King.
Eleni : I see. Then Uksudama has fallen?
King Sparos: You tell the tale, mage. I do not wish to speak the words.
Hecataeus: As you command, my King.
Hecataeus: I am Hecataeus, humble advisor to King Sparos, as to his father before him.
Hecataeus: The troubles began some months ago.
Eleni : *Nods, listening closely*
Hecataeus: Word reached King Pharos of a new death-cult operating in the west.
Hecataeus: Sparos, then the prince-heir, led several expeditions against their outposts.
Hecataeus: They worship the death-god Thanatos, and fought like madmen.
Sapphira: My husband sent many of them to their god.
Eleni : *Frowns*
Hecataeus: The Thracians were doing well, and learned of a major base of the cult in the swamps to the west.
Kataramene : *wrinkles her nose in disgust*
Hecataeus: The King was preparing an expedition against them with the beastmen appeared.
Eleni : From whence did they come?
Hecataeus: The Thracians fought bravely, but the beastmen continued to appear in greater numbers, forcing the warriors back.
Hecataeus: From the west as well.
Polytropos : *suspicious look*
Hecataeus: It is our belief that the two are linked somehow, beastmen and cultists.
Damian : What do these beastmen look like?
Hecataeus: They are formed like men, only larger. They bodies are covered with mangy brown or gray fur.
Kataramene : *frowns* I thought you meant men who had gone feral.
Hecataeus: Their heads are like great hounds, with ugly yellow teeth in huge jaws.
Eleni : Do these creatures speak?
Damian : Do you think they were once men?
Telemachus : Do they use tools and weapons, do they plan?
King Sparos: We have never seen their like before in my father's time or his father's father's time.
King Sparos: They fight with weapons, crude ones, but they have great strength.
Kataramene : Could they be the work of this cult?
Hecataeus: That we do not know.
Kataramene : Perhaps it is time to find out.
Damian : I'd like to talk to your druid.
King Sparos: If you remain you will find out soon enough.
Thravaxes: King! Perhaps these newcomers can aid in my plan.
Kataramene : We prefer to take the fight to the culprits if we can.
Eleni : We will assist in whatever way we are able, of course, but -
Eleni : ...plan?
King Sparos: Thravaxes, we must protect the people.
King Sparos: *shoulders sag*
Kataramene : Your smith said you were short of metal.
Thravaxes: My people have lost heart. They need a victory.
Kataramene : Not much but it will make arrow heads.
King Sparos: One shield will not win the war against the beastmen.
Sapphira: It is a kind gesture.
Thravaxes: No, we must take the fight to them! Your father's weapons...
Kataramene : Defense is necesarry no matter who sallies forth.
King Sparos: My father is dead.
Polytropos : Let us fight. Every one that comes for us, every one we kill, is one that will not reach your wall.
Kataramene : All the more reason for revenge upon them.
King Sparos: If you wish to aid our patrols, we will gladly accept your support.
Eleni : If nothing else, we will be a thorn in their side. One that will slow them down appreciably.
Kataramene : The least we could do would be allow you time to arrange for the safety of your citizens.
King Sparos: According to our scouts, armies of several thousand beastmen move up and down our lands, ravaging and pillaging.
King Sparos: You will find no shortage of foes.
Leonidas : wow that's a lot
Kataramene : They must have a source, we should seek it.
King Sparos: Perhaps it will make some difference.
Kataramene : If it is a curse perhaps it could be lifted?
King Sparos: If you seek a quick death, then I will not stop you.
Damian : If you kill a queen ant, the colony dies soon after.
Eleni : A horde like this... I cannot believe this is a mindless rampage.
King Sparos: Thravaxes. Brief the Argos-people on our schedule of patrols.
Eleni : There must be something at the head.
Thravaxes: King.
Thravaxes: *nods, looking somewhat angry*
Thravaxes: Come with me.
Damian : *bows* Sire.
Sapphira: Thank you for your aid.
Eleni : *Bows* Your Highness...
Kataramene : *bows backing away*
Polytropos : *scheming look*

Thravaxes: I ask but one question.
Thravaxes: Greece has many great thinkers, they say.
Thravaxes: Does it also have great warriors?
Kataramene : *low* I've seen that look before.
Thravaxes: And are you its best?
Kataramene : *titls her head and looks at him* We could show you?
Damian : Your king may have lost hope, but we have not. Tell us your plans.
Eleni : We are Argos' best.
Thravaxes: This is not the time for foolish displays, girl.
Thravaxes: We are at war.
Telemachus : Hah it'd be hubris to say the best. But we're damn good.
Telemachus : and we're what's here.
Thravaxes: *nods at Eleni*
Thravaxes: *and Telemachus*
Thravaxes: I have a plan.
Telemachus : Thought you might.
Polytropos : We've fought the dead in Egypt, and braved the Cretan labyrinth. We're good.
Kataramene : I meant in tackling your troubles, but it seems you need to take all words as a personal affront.
Thravaxes: If you had lost what I have... *pauses, masters himself with an effort*
Eleni : There is little room left in one's heart for patience after all this, I imagine.
Eleni : Please; continue.
Damian : We're not ones to mince words, Thravaxes. Say what's on your mind.
Kataramene : Then don't deter us, point us whwere we can help.
Thravaxes: One cycle of the moon past, the enemy overran our King's hold, Uskudama.
Thravaxes: King Pharos engaged the enemy himself, to give the Prince time to flee with our people.
Thravaxes: However, survivors said that the King did not bear with him his magical weapons: a mighty falx and his great bow.
Thravaxes: I fought beside my King for many years. I believe he secreted the weapons so that the enemy would not claim them.
Eleni : You mentioned those, before... They would be great symbols of hope for your people, I take it?
Polytropos : Ooo.
Thravaxes: Yes. And a successful raid would heal the morale of the people.
Leonidas : Why didn't he give them to the prince?
Thravaxes: You saw the King. That is not the Sparos I know, not the man that will lead us to victory.
Thravaxes: The attack was sudden.
Thravaxes: The Prince was not at the capitol when the raid came.
Leonidas : *nods*
Eleni : You believe the weapons to remain somewhere in Uskudama, then?
Thravaxes: If the enemy had found the weapons, I am sure they would have paraded them before us, to hurt our honor.
Thravaxes: I do.
Thravaxes: I have proposed a raid to the King, but he does not agree.
Kataramene : Then that is our aim.
Thravaxes: However, we do patrol. He had not said that I cannot make it a _long_ patrol.
Kataramene : Recovering such seems to have become our speciality.
Telemachus : Sounds like a fine place to strike to me.
Eleni : Hm. Have the beastmen fortified the area?
Thravaxes: You have some skill at stealth?
Thravaxes: Yes.
Leonidas : some
Eleni : Indeed.
Damian : We usually solve problems with a blow to the head.
Andreas Appolodorus: Not realy.
Thravaxes: Then here is what I suggest. I will lead an attack with my warriors, at the main gate.
Eleni : ...some of us.
Telemachus : some of us have, most of us have precious little
Thravaxes: Draw their attention.
Thravaxes: There is a way in through the back of the camp. If you can remain undetected and slip into the great hall, you will have a chance to find if I am right about the weapons.
Damian : Those of us who cannot sneak will join you.
Eleni : I can cloak all of us.
Polytropos : *blinks at Damien.*
Eleni : But only for a short time.
Damian : That'll work too.
Thravaxes: Brave, but I would suggest that you work together.
Kataramene : I suggest we stay out of sight and charge in when it is clear to go in the back.
Thravaxes: Not all of my people speak Greek.
Thravaxes: It will take us some days to reach Uskudama. I will brief you in full as we travel.
Kataramene : We can't let Pol .. .and Leo risk what is inside alone.
Thravaxes: *looks to the sky* We should leave in the morning. If you need any supplies, speak to yonder craftsman.
Damian : I'm as silent as a bull in a hen house.
Kataramene : See that he gets the shield.
Thravaxes: He will happily take your coin and use it to trade with the few Asian traders who still come.
Kataramene : There were supplies on the ship that might aid.
Thravaxes: I will come for you in the morning. Speak with no one about our plans.
Thravaxes: I will go then and see that they are unloaded.
Eleni : *Nods*
Damian : What plans?
Polytropos : Understood, Thracian. I'm sort of looking forward to this.
Thravaxes: The plans that we... ah, good.
Thravaxes: *touches nose*
Kataramene : *grins a little*
Damian : *grins* See you in the morning.
Thravaxes: Get sleep, I will see you shortly.


Eleni : This may be quite... interesting.
Kataramene : That green shield, is it's magic significant of what you face here?
Thracian Craftsman: There are creatures in the swamps that breath gouts of nasty stuff that eats clothes and flesh.
Polytropos : Bleugh.
Leonidas : wonderful
Eleni : ..ah. Good to know.
Kataramene : Great.
Polytropos : Well, let's find us a quiet spot and make a fire...
Eleni : I can get behind that.
Polytropos : *chews on some dried meat.*

Lazyzeus : The camp is crowded with refugees, but you find a quiet spot and set up your resting place... It is before dawn when the Thracian hero comes for you. You head north with a small column of warriors... The journey north is uneventful, though the Thracians take back trails and difficult routes. You avoid beastmen patrols, though you at times see large groups of them in the distance. You move mostly during the day; Thravaxes reports that the beastmen have excellent night-vision. Finally you slow, moving into some canyons. Thravaxes takes you forward alone.

Polytropos : ... you were right, Leo, that is a lot.
Leonidas : Ya think?
Kataramene : *chafes at the bypassing of them*
Thravaxes: Best douse those lights.
Polytropos : Who's lighting?
Thravaxes: Morning approaches. The beasts love the night, so we will attack once the sun is risen fully.
Kataramene : My belt glows a little.
Eleni : *Nods*
Thravaxes: Ah, better.
Eleni : Where is our entrance?
Thravaxes: Now. This canyon runs up behind the fort.
Thravaxes: Follow the stream.
Kataramene : *unbuckles it reluctantly*
Damian : Right.
Telemachus : *nods*
Polytropos : Right Don't get crazy out there. You don't want to throw your lives away, and it's a long walk back. All we need is a short while.
Telemachus : Do you have any idea where the weapons might be hidden?
Eleni : Anywhere in particular there you think we might find what we seek?
Telemachus : Right.
Eleni : Very well.
Kataramene : We await the time.
Damian : Aias, go help the men if you can.
Andreas Appolodorus: * removes chiton and fold it *
Telemachus : right we need to find that break in the stockade
Eleni : *Squints ahead* Is that the hall there, you think?
Damian : I don't hear the sounds of battle.
Polytropos : *sneak sneak*
Eleni : *Sticks close to the walls*
Eleni : The stockade..
Damian : *looks behind him* Kat? Great.
Eleni : How do we wish to do this?
Damian : Leo or Pol should open the gate, then we can sneak through while invisible.

Leonidas : *w* there's a single sentry wandering around along this back wall area.
Eleni : I'll cast the spells once we heard the sound of battle. We'll barely be able to see eachother, but we know where to go.
Leonidas : I found a rough gate in the stockade I can probably unlock.
Eleni : Attacking someone will break the enchantment. But on its own, it should last about eight minutes or so.
Eleni : ...oh.
Eleni : Nice trick.
Damian : *seems to grin*
Eleni : Good kitty. I guess.
Damian : *purrs*
Leonidas : *sneaks up and works on gate lock*

Lazyzeus : You sneak through the camp, avoiding the sentries. Leonidas gets the gate open, and you move around behind the Great Hall. The sounds of fighting from the opposite side of the camp draw the sentries over, and you slip inside...

Polytropos : Sssh...
Polytropos : Sssh, I said.
Leonidas : Danger ahead!
Eleni : *w* More specifically...?
Leonidas : guard dog and some handler up on the left.
Telemachus: *w* we need to get onto the second floor..

Lazyzeus : You see a pair of eyes in the shadows ahead, and hear a low growl.

Eleni : Hm. The dog might notice us even if -
Leonidas : perhaps
Kataramene : Quiet as you can be, you still have a scent.
Leonidas : stairs are on the left side of the hall a little before the dog and guard
Eleni : ...choice made for us, I guess.
Eleni : We should move quickly.
Beastman Female: *interrogative growl*
Leonidas : *w* couple of their females ahead
Kataramene : Do they look attractive?
Kataramene : *snark*
Eleni : *w* Yes, do we need to restrain Leo?
Beastman Female: *yip, yip!*
Beastman Female: *sniffs*
Leonidas : *watches*
Kataramene : *stays tucked behind pillar*
Leonidas : Looks clear.
Polytropos : Holdit!
Eleni : Don't let them raise the alarm.
Damian : Hold still, Pol!
Kataramene : Stay there. Stay quiet.
Eleni : *Searches the chambers*
Kataramene : Or you die. Understand?
Leonidas : *searches*
Polytropos : *poke pokes furniture, looking under stuff.*
Eleni : I don't think she speaks Greek, but she probably understands.
Kataramene : *eyes the "bitch" warily*
Leonidas : *searches*
Kataramene : He's not going to have placed these somewhere easy to find.
Kataramene : Or they would have them by now.
Eleni : I don't see anything to help us. Was there anything on the other side of the hall?
Polytropos : If you were a thracian king, hiding something from a beast man, where'd you put it?
Damian : *studies the beastwoman*
Kataramene : Look under the beds?
Leonidas : *searches*
Polytropos : *peeps under.*
Eleni : The planks here look uneven.
Kataramene : Is that a mark under the barr... yeah.

Lazyzeus : Leonidas moves the brazier aside...

Leonidas : need a key of some sort or smash it open
Damian : *to Eleni* They look remarkedbly human. Do you think...?
Polytropos : Not a problem.
Kataramene : *tries to lever up the planks*
Damian : Let Tel do it.
Eleni : So do centaurs, in part...
Polytropos : This is it!
Leonidas : *searches other rooms*
Polytropos : A huge sword, a bow, some arrows!
Damian : Yes, but centaurs are natural.
Eleni : And you are certain these creatures are not?
Damian : *shrugs* I don't know.
Eleni : Simply because we don't know of them... *shrugs as well*
Polytropos : Let's go!
Eleni : If these are what we are looking for...
Damian : They could be like the minotaur: cursed.

Beastman Female : *screeching*
Kataramene : What did he do to her?
Polytropos : Look! Uh- uhoh. What?
Eleni : What indeed...?
Kataramene : Did someone pick them up?
Polytropos : Yes! Let's go!
Leonidas : Danger ahead!
Kataramene : Which way?
Polytropos : There's only one way!
Eleni : We need to move!
Polytropos : *dashes out*
Eleni : *Cloaks everyone*
Eleni : *...and follows the rest out, hopefully not bumping into anyone invisibly*

Lazyzeus : You rush out into a very confused camp. Dozens of beastmen are rushing about, but you slip past them easily. You head to the prearranged meeting point...

Polytropos : Hello!
Eleni : Do we have Damian?
Leonidas : guess we got the stuff?
Thravaxes: Now, that was a raid!
Polytropos : We got the stuff.
Kataramene : *bats Pol with flat of sword* Where'd you go?
Polytropos : Hey, you were attracting all the attention. I went around the back of the back.
Thravaxes: Excellent.
Eleni : Indeed. We took out one or two dozen on the way out...
Kataramene : Picked up some things you might use.
Thravaxes: I thought we were going to be overwhelmed there for a moment, but there was some sort of alarm and a whole cohort of them ran back into the fort.
Leonidas : I suggest we not dally, there are several thousand more wandering around out here after all.
Eleni : Hah. Yes, that would have been our doing.
Thravaxes: The King's weapons!
Polytropos : As promised.
Thravaxes: Then I was right!
Polytropos : They were hidden beneath the floor!
Eleni : *Nods, though nobody can see it*
Polytropos : Leo the Bearded One back there found them.
Thravaxes: I suspect these will ease my King's ire when I return.
Leonidas : My specialty, finding things.
Polytropos : Can but hope. You want these arrows, here...
Kataramene : Perhaps encourage him to send someone to use them.
Eleni : And raise your pepople's spirits.
Thravaxes: I would rather they find the hearts of beastmen.
Thravaxes: In fact...
Thravaxes: You had spoken earlier, about finding the source of this invasion.
Telemachus: At the very least they must have some sort of leadership
Kataramene : Cut off it's head, yes.
Thravaxes: Are you still willing to undertake such a quest?
Eleni : That is why we came, after all.
Telemachus: It's what we're here for.
Thravaxes: Our scouts have been unable to... *starts as Eleni materializes*
Leonidas : Guess that's why we're here.
Polytropos : In greece, we call them 'trials'.
Eleni : Oh, sorry.
Eleni : The enchantment wore off.
Thravaxes: It seems that you can pass beyond sight! So perhaps you can make it into the swamps where we failed.
Eleni : They are thick with Beastmen?
Leonidas : but she's still as charming as ever.
Thravaxes: That is where they have come from.
Kataramene : They will soon be less thick with them.
Andreas Appolodorus: Trial or labour.
Thravaxes: They must be coming from _somewhere_, we never faced them before until we started defeating the cult.
Eleni : This cult...
Polytropos : That smells of foul magic.
Eleni : I still wonder how they figure into all this.
Eleni : Has there been any sighting of them since the Beastmen arrived?
Kataramene : Cult.
Thravaxes: Nay, they have not been seen with the beastman armies.
Kataramene : This is the third time we have heard of a cult.
Kataramene : They stir up trouble but leave other means of destruction to do their work.
Eleni : Indeed.
Thravaxes: I fear that they are behind all of this.
Eleni : In Crete, we uncovered a manufactored cult terrorising the populace.
Thravaxes: If we can strike at the head, perhaps we can defeat the body.
Eleni : It is possible this is a similar scenario.
Thravaxes: In any case... I must return, and report back to my King.
Eleni : And as for us....
Kataramene : Can you direct us? Or do you not know precisely where they are?
Thravaxes: However, I would offer... I must already take responsibility for defying my King.
Thravaxes: I will give you all the information I know.
Damian : I'm sure he'll understand.
Thravaxes: If you wish, and if you can use it, I offer one of these weapons for your use.
Thravaxes: I will return the other to my King and tell him what has happened.
Polytropos : Oof. You sure? He might not appreciate that...
Thravaxes: King Pharos would have wanted them to see use against our deadly foe.
Polytropos : Hm.
Kataramene : Better with us than sitting idle, we can return them when done.
Polytropos : Well, it's the biggest sword I've ever seen, or the biggest bow I've ever seen.
Thravaxes: And if King Sparos cuts off my head, then I suppose I was wrong, eh?
Polytropos : Haha! Haha... ha... ha. yeah.
Kataramene : *winces a little* He does not need to know this occured.
Thravaxes: I will not keep secrets from my King.
Polytropos : What do you think, all.
Kataramene : If the weapons will be used then yes, if no one will /use/ them then send them to the King.
Eleni : *Shrugs* I would not be the one using the weapon, and I don't know the young King well enough to tell how he will feel about this.
Leonidas : *shrugs* warriors should pick what they think would help them most.
Polytropos : Swords we have aplenty, but that one was heavy with magic. On the other hand, we don't have much in the way of bows.
Damian : What Eleni said.
Eleni : He seemed reluctant to risk lives bringing these back, though.
Leonidas : Can't use that bow, so I'm indifferent.
Telemachus : I plan to keep using this shield, and I don't think even I could swing a sword that size one-handed.
Polytropos : Doh.
Kataramene : I'd use the bow ... I suppose I could use the sword.
Andreas Appolodorus: Not me for sure,
Thravaxes: *dryly* Yes, even our heroes use two hands, warrior.
Kataramene : Would be more vulnerable without the shield but if it hurts them more?
Leonidas : Pick one and let's be on our way then.
Thravaxes: Is there a decision? It is a long trek back to the coast.
Polytropos : ... eh. The bow, I say. Swords we have.
Polytropos : Shields we'll need.
Thracian Warrior: Greek and their democracy. Always indecisive.
Kataramene : I will carry it, there is a chance we might need it.
Thravaxes: *nods*
Thravaxes: *describes the best route to the swamps*
Thravaxes: I wish you luck, Greeks of Argos.
Eleni : *Memorizes it*
Eleni : And we you, warriors of Thrace.

[Karvon]

Lazyzeus : When we left off (abruptly), you had agreed to press on into the swamps to seek out the source of the beastman invasion.
Lazyzeus : The Thracian hero has given you directions that should hopefully allow you to approach the region without being spotted. However, you expect beastmen patrols, even if the bulk of their army is off ravaging the Thracian countryside. The Thracian forests are old and seem to extend forever. But after a day's travel you find yourself approaching the swamps (to the west)

Polytropos : Here we go, friends. Let's see if we can pick up the trail...
Eleni : There's a trail, now?
Damian : Shouldn't be too hard.
Polytropos : They're all coming from somewhere, that's the theory, right?
Damian : I smell smoke.
Eleni : They are unlikely to have sprung from Chaos itself, yes.
Eleni : *Sniffs*
Damian : Could be a camp.
Polytropos : Ssh...
Polytropos : There's a band of them. Over the river.
Polytropos : Get down off the hill, man.
Eleni : Can we get past...?
Damian : Andreas.
Leonidas : trail along the stream up ahead
Polytropos : ... stick to the trees...
Eleni : ...well. This is certainly a swamp.
Damian : Watch out for swamp creatures.

Eleni : Like those?
Damian : Exactly like that.
Eleni : So noted.
Damian : *scratches Aias' ears* Thank you, my friend.
Telemachus : How the foe trembles before our might.
Telemachus : come on.
Polytropos : Brekekex, koax, koax.
Damian : More like squishes, Tel.
Eleni : Truly, the mighty frog is to us as wheat before the scythe.
Eleni : The mighty, rather suicidally agressive frog.
Telemachus : Or frogs before the scythe
Eleni : Well, yes.
Polytropos : They're not used to heroes.
Damian : Hmm. Most predators won't attack something larger than themselves.
Telemachus : They didn't count on our years of experience killing frogs back home.
Polytropos : ... careful...
Andreas Appolodorus: Hungry or angry creatures? May be bothh.
Eleni : Unless there's venom involved.

Telemachus : That's a damn big turtle
Telemachus : bet it's delicious
Eleni : Even the turtle?!
Damian : Turtle usually is.
Eleni : It's a turtle! They're supposed to be lazy and docile!
Polytropos : This must be of the giant, snapping kind.
Damian : *examines the turtle and expertly slices off some meat*
Eleni : Did you deduce that from the fact that it was giant and snapped at you?

Leonidas : Danger ahead!
Eleni : ...what's...
Damian : It could be defending its territory, Eleni, or something foul may be afoot.
Telemachus : Lights
Leonidas : beastmen in the ruins
Polytropos : .. so I see...
Telemachus : and little... people?
Eleni : Not beastmen..
Telemachus : they're not human whatever they are
Eleni : These are different. Lizard-like.
Leonidas : beatmen to the right
Leonidas : lizards to the left
Eleni : They's also spotted us.
Eleni : So, ah...
Damian : They're not attacking, so that's a good sign.

Eleni : Hello! We come in peace, possibly?
Eleni : ...likewise?
Polytropos : Uh...
Eleni : I think they might be asking us to leaev.
Damian : *scratches head*
Eleni : I'm sorry. We don't speak lizard.
G'ruk: You... is not... death humanssss
Polytropos : ... nnnoooo.
Eleni : Oh! Good. Um.. death humans? You mean the cultists?
Leonidas : *keeps eye out in the direction of the ruins and beastmen*
Eleni : Those! Yes.
Eleni : We are not they. We have come to learn what happened of them.
Damian : Come here, Pol, and I'll dress that scratch of yours.
Eleni : Have the death-worshippers troubled your people..?
G'ruk: We first brought. Force to serve. We esssscape.
Leonidas : *listens*
G'ruk: Not likessss thissss place. Too cold. Sssstrange foodssss.
Eleni : That is horrible.
Eleni : Where did you come from...?
Polytropos : Better.
G'ruk: Other place. Home sssswamp, not like thissss, warmer, much warmer.
Eleni : Someplace warmer... further south? Asia?
Damian : Yes, if they are reptiles, they would require warmer climate.
G'ruk: Not know you namessss place.
G'ruk: Portal open, we ssssteal from landsssss.
Eleni : Of course, I'm sorry.
Eleni : A portal?
G'ruk: Immortal King open portalsssss. Many die.
Eleni : Is that how you got here...? Hm.
G'ruk: Ssssome my people ssssstil sssserve. We fleeesssss.
G'ruk: Immortal King much powerssss. We not want fight humanssssss for cold land.
Polytropos : 'Immortal king'...? 'Portal'...
Eleni : Are they others who were... forced to serve? Besides your people?
G'ruk: Immortal King ssssumon much othersssss.
G'ruk: My people, not good sssslavesss.
Damian : I wonder if he summoned the beastmen?
G'ruk: Yesssss.
Damian : Hmm. Do you know where this king is?
G'ruk: Ssssummon beasssstmenssss. Call "gnollssss"
Eleni : We are friends to the king in the east. He is besieged by.... those, yes.
G'ruk: In sssswamp. Ancient placessss of ssstone. Go much under groundssss.
Eleni : If this Immortal King is the cause of this, we are here to slay him.
Eleni : ...the 'immortal' part might make that difficult, though.
Damian : We'll see if we can defeat this king and find a way to send your people home.
G'ruk: Many many gnollsssss leave sssswamp. My peoplessss, we hide, but we make trapssss, sssswamp thingssss attack.
Eleni : How literal is it?
Telemachus : We'll be sure to test his immortalitly throughly
Polytropos : Hnh...
G'ruk: Immortal King much powersss. Much magicssss. Not livessss.
Polytropos : Can you show us where they are?
Eleni : A magi of great power, then...
G'ruk: We hinderssss beassst if come into sssswamp from dry land.
Eleni : I wonder if he is of this place or another.
G'ruk: Ssstone housssses, there... *points to the west* I sssshow, narrow way.
G'ruk: Many guardsssss. Walk like sssilent sssnake.
Eleni : *Nods*
Damian : Not alive? Hmm. I wonder if by immortal he's not invulnerable, but will come back if "killed"? Like the undead we fought in Egypt?
Eleni : What is the other?
G'ruk: One wayssss for gnollssss, one for death humanssss.
G'ruk: Portalssss far below.
G'ruk: No go farther. We watch ssswamp. If beassstsss come, we delay.
Leonidas : wonderful
Polytropos : ... aright... let's see if we can deal with these quickly...
Eleni : *Nods* If we succeed, we will see if we can get your people back through the portal.
Damian : The quicker the better.
G'ruk: Yesssss.
G'ruk: *dives into the water*

Eleni : I can bring down fire on them...
Eleni : Sort of like that!
Polytropos : ... ow.
Eleni : ...er, sorry. Was that me?
Polytropos : Yeah!
Eleni : I didn't see you anywhere...
Polytropos : That was the idea!
Eleni : You were hiding too well!
Eleni : The beasts saw you, though!
Leonidas : That was exciting
Damian : *applies bandages and herbs* You'll be fine, Pol.
Polytropos : Gheh.
Eleni : Probably smelled you.
Telemachus : You can always draw your eyeballs back on Pol.
Damian : Eyeballs or eyebrows?
Leonidas : So we got a plan or...?
Telemachus : I said Eyebrows!
Damian : Sounded like eyeballs to me.
Telemachus : shaddup

Polytropos : Hold...
Damian : *chuckles*
Polytropos : They're not too far. Just to the southwest. Half a dozen or so.
Eleni : ....some sort of sacrifice, I suppose.
Leonidas : Danger ahead!
Telemachus : ..bastards.
Polytropos : ... you aren't beasts...
Eleni : Quite uncivlized, isn't it?
Polytropos : There's men, ahead and to the south, again. I saw three, could be more.
Damian : Can't see a thing in this fog.
Eleni : The cultists.
Polytropos : *sneak, sneak*
Damian : I can sense two.
Deathwalker Warrior : Enemies!
Eleni : ...I think they heard us.

Polytropos : Nice.
Polytropos : I like the lightning better.
Eleni : ...I wonder if we could take their clothing.
Eleni : Probably not. We've made something of a ruckus.
Damian : I can cast one more before resting.
Telemachus : This one has a paper
Telemachus : with writing.
Andreas Appolodorus: A message
Eleni : More specifically?
Andreas Appolodorus: from the immortal king
Eleni : 'The humans and their death-god are useful for now."
Damian : *examines the spear* Bastards.
Leonidas : more cultest on guard in the tunnels below.
Eleni : An altogether unpleasant fellow, this Immortal King.
Damian : If he's undead, that doesn't surprise me.
Leonidas : 1 at the end of the first passage.
Polytropos : What does that mean? I'm confused.
Polytropos : *sneaks down.*
Telemachus : These cultists have some strange armour.. this has got to to be the bulkiest I've ever seen..
Damian : Is it useful?
Telemachus : I wouldn't know how to wear it without falling over, I think.
Damian : Save it for Kat if you can then.
Polytropos : *sneak sneak... sneak...*
Telemachus : Pfft I doubt she'll want it, she's all about speed.
Andreas Appolodorus: I can carry if you need.
Damian : True.
Polytropos : *psst* Hurry down.

Deathwalker Warrior: *scratches something on the wall with the blade of his javelin. It's a penis*
Telemachus : But maybe I'll practice with it later.
Eleni : *Does so*
Deathwalker Warrior: Gah!

Damian : Hah
Polytropos : Heh.
Eleni : I /like/ this bow.
Eleni : *Pats it*
Damian : *snorts*
Telemachus : What's that necklace for?
Eleni : I don't know. Some sort of alarm?
Eleni : It's not obviously magical, anyway.
Damian : Could be. I wouldnt' blow it.
Eleni : Well, no. No sense in ringing the alarm.
Polytropos : ... careful... another...

Tavasmok : Thanatos... mighty and Eternal Death! Accept our... what's this?
Damian : Uh-oh.
Leonidas : ugh
Polytropos : Eeeeasy there.
Damian : Ow.
Eleni : Ach. Nastly little man.
Polytropos : Foul magic! That's not fair.
Eleni : ...ugh.
Eleni : *Starts away from the bodies*
Leonidas : I could use some healing too
Eleni : ...more... sacrificeS.
Leonidas : got zapped by some spell
Leonidas : thanks
Polytropos : This one has a lot of papyrus on him.
Telemachus : *starts untiying prisoners
Telemachus : Looks like we got here just in time
Thrax: Who are you?
Eleni : *Reads the note aloud*
Eleni : ...erm.
Eleni : *Pauses*
Andreas Appolodorus: Many things on this body.

Eleni : ...who are /you.?
Polytropos : We're Greeks! Allied to King Sparos.
Telemachus : Your king sent away to Argos for help, we answered.
Polytropos : Well met, Thrax.
Andreas Appolodorus: * collect things from body *
Polytropos : Well met, Somebody.
Eleni : Quite understandable.
Eleni : Are there others nearby?

Lazyzeus : The last captive was too badly hurt, he died of his wounds before he could be freed.

Polytropos : Aw.
Damian : Not in the shape you're in, Thrax. You'll need to rest first.
Damian : Uh-huh. One more will put you down for good.
Polytropos : Knew that would come in handy.
Polytropos : I was thinking of firewood...
Eleni : We are certainly warring on this cult.
Eleni : Have you learned much of them here?
Eleni : Well, we cleared the way to the entrance. But there may still be patrls up above.
Telemachus : You'd serve better as a messenger, your king doesn't know of this place yet
Damian : There are creatures in the swamp, but the way back should be clear out of the ruins.
Eleni : *patrols, even
Thrax: They are evil and cavort with demons.
Leonidas : couple unlocked doors down that way; no traps that I noticed.
Thrax: Send the wretch, I woudl rather fight. *is available as a henchman*
Polytropos : We had some spare armour, right...?
Thracian Slave: Yes, send the wr... wait, what?
Damian : *rubs head wearily* Is it safe to rest here? I need to recover.
Eleni : Yes. This note speaks of a 'Creature, ' 'Yeenoghu'.
Polytropos : Is it 'safe' to rest here?
Eleni : I somehow doubt it.
Polytropos : What he said.
Telemachus : well here, if you don't mind wearing their armour..
Andreas Appolodorus: please look at these before we move on.
Telemachus : *shrug*
Thracian Slave: Um... wouldn't it be better if we all left now?
Polytropos : For the sake of Thrace, all these men must die.
Telemachus : We have a job to do first.
Thrax: Silence, coward, men are speaking.
Telemachus : Hide in the swamp above and wait for us if you wish.
Thracian Slave: *nods* Hide, yes. Hiding is good.
Eleni : The lizards are nice people!
Eleni : Just, you know. For reference.

Polytropos : They might eat him. He has that 'I am food' look about him.
Damian : I'm carrying all that I can.
Eleni : He's rather doe-eyed, certainly.
Andreas Appolodorus: This protective robe? No taker?
Polytropos : Anyway. Uh, no, Andreas, not for me.
Thrax: Have you no bandages, or healing draughts? I could use a tub of mead, if nothing else.
Eleni : A bit too heavy for my liking. And my magic protects me better, anyway.
Leonidas : maybe, let me try it on
Telemachus : *examining the altar with a look of distaste*
Thrax: Thank you, shaman.
Damian : *nods*
Eleni : *To Thrax* Tell us of the nearby rooms.
Telemachus : *smashes it*
Leonidas : Hmm not too bad.
Thrax: I would follow you, if you wish.
Damian : We would welcome the company and extra sword.
Thrax: There are many cultists, but we were bound, and did not get a chance to explore.
Polytropos : That's an... interesting look, Leo.
Leonidas : Yeah
Eleni : Yes... you look like... well, a priest.
Leonidas : anyways
Polytropos : Or a Persian.
Eleni : I'm not quite sure what god would have you.
Thrax: *swings the axe* It feels good
Leonidas : there are two unlocked doors to the north.
Thrax: I am in debt to you for my life and freedom. What would you have me do?
Eleni : Anyway, surely we have some clothing for our good Thracian friend here...?
Damian: I want you to follow me.
Thrax: Very well, sir.
Thrax: Are you lot any good? What have you accomplished?
Leonidas : to the east theres one unlocked and one barred from this side easily opened; not sure we'd want to though.
Damian : We found you, isn't that enough?
Thrax: *wriggles his nose* I suppose
Eleni : *Smiles* We can exchange boastful tales later, if we all make it out of here.
Damian : Preferably over a mug of mead.
Telemachus : well we killed the demons at sparta, slew the minotuar in crete, defeated an army of undead in egypt..
Thrax: Now THAT's an idea
Telemachus : recovered the weapons of your king from the middle of an army camp..
Eleni : Careful of the big gaping chasm.
Telemachus : there's a couple of others, dont like to brag..
Thrax: *raises eyebrow* Did you really?....Or do you think we're in a tarvern now to be boosting such?
Damian : But you do it so well, Tel.
Telemachus : You asked.
Eleni : You'll see us in action soon enough.

Deathwalker Fighter: *pulls a lever*
Eleni : Bear!
Damian : *sighs*
Polytropos : Accursed levers.
Eleni : Not all bears are as agreeable as Aias, sadly...
Damian : Looks like the bear's pen.
Telemachus : Why doesn't anything *good* ever happen when someone pulls a lever?
Eleni : Certainly smells that way.
Polytropos : *collects some shiny, valuable-looking things.*
Eleni : Anything peculiar?
Polytropos : Gems! And a scepter!
Eleni : Hm.
Polytropos : This one is strange.
Telemachus : What kind of gem is that?
Eleni : Yes, it is... ah..
Eleni : A gem of piercing illusions and all things hidden.
Eleni : Quite interesting.
Polytropos : A-ha.
Leonidas : loot's always good, let's bag it and go.
Eleni : Now where did they get something like this...?
Telemachus : Sounds useful for osmeone in our line of work.
Telemachus : Well it sounds like their leader is some sort of mage
Telemachus : and we've killed a couple of spellweavers already.
Eleni : It sounds more than just that.

Polytropos : ... bodies...
Polytropos : Walking bodies!
Eleni : Ah.
Damian : More?
Thrax : Back to the grave with you!
Polytropos : ... I, uh, found some things.
Eleni : Were these in that chest?
Polytropos : Maaaybe.
Eleni : Did the dead stir when you /took/ them
Eleni : ?
Polytropos : Oh, oh no. Really.
Eleni : Pol..
Damian : "Not really"?
Polytropos : I'm serious! I saw them stir, so I went tothe box and grabbed things in case we needed to run away.
Eleni : Alright, alright.
Polytropos : I'm a thinker.
Telemachus : Sound plan.
Eleni : Though for reference, you should probably not touch things before we catch up.
Polytropos : Right.
Damian : Yes.
Polytropos : This is Athena, though, right? I'm taking this as a good omen.
Polytropos : It's got her aegis and her shield and her owl.
Eleni : I'm taking it as a sign these people have done some pillaging.
Damian : Which is *not* a good sign.
Leonidas : Yeah, they already probably got most of the good loot.
Eleni : This scroll, though.. something about a hidden chamber?
Polytropos : Well, alright. Let's free some more statues.
Telemachus : Seems like they don't trust each other.
Eleni : Yes, that's interesting..
Leonidas : *examines map*
Polytropos : Well, I wouldn't either.
Telemachus : Maybe we can find it
Eleni : The lizardman made it sound as if the cultists were the masters.
Damian : Leo has a map that might help.
Leonidas : Looks like the east passage we bypassed might lead to deeper into the complex with stairs going down.
Telemachus : Didn't you say the gem shows hidden things?
Polytropos : Alright. Let's make sure there's nothing more nasty around here, and then follow your map.
Eleni : *Nods* Yes. Few illusions could stand up to it.
Damian : I'll need to rest before we head down.
Telemachus : we should clear this level first, we don't want to leave enemies behind us.
Damian : That too.

Polytropos : The heads without flesh!
Eleni : What a peculiar statue.
Polytropos : I thought it a mask, but no, that's a skull...
Leonidas : trapped
Telemachus : Looks evil.
Leonidas : *examines*
Telemachus : What do you mean trapped?
Damian : Looks valuable.
Polytropos : Oh yeah, I see it too.
Telemachus : How do you trap a statue?
Polytropos : I think it's linked to the eyegems. If you touch them.
Eleni : With great care, I assume.
Damian : The *eyes* are probably trapped, Tel.
Polytropos : There we go.
Telemachus : Oh right, so they're worth something?
Leonidas : ...and there we go *pries out two gemstones*
Telemachus : lever them out. I'll lend you a knife if you like
Polytropos : I wouldn't want to annoy a god personally, but...
Thrax: Let us send a few more cultists to their god.
Telemachus : He's let his followers get out of hand.
Damian : Or told them to.
Eleni : Thanatos... usually does not go for this sort of thing, I don't think.
Polytropos : ... eugh, that's a stink.
Leonidas : not sure you want topen that one
Telemachus : They're probably not even worshiping him right then
Eleni : This cult may just be an abberation.
Leonidas : it was barred from this side

Eleni : ...I'm not sure what that was.
Damian : A wolverine.
Andreas Appolodorus: Meat.
Telemachus : Looked like a giant badger
Polytropos : Euuuugh.
Damian : Pretty much, yes.
Eleni : Eesh.
Eleni : Leo might have been right... much as it shocks me to say.
Leonidas : animal waste is the druids department.
Polytropos : *cough*
Damian : *examines the nest*
Telemachus : .... what are you doing?
Damian : Searching.
Damian : Ahah! Found somethings.
Polytropos : You are what you eat.
Damian : Tel, I can't carry this armor.
Telemachus : Well you pulled it out of giant badger shit so you earnt it.
Damian : Pfft. All it needs is to be washed off.
Eleni : *Rubs forehead* Are they really...,
Telemachus : Yes I see that.
Eleni : You are going to stink for weeks.
Damian : I found a xiphos and a set of armor I can't identify.
Telemachus : Eleni take a look at this.
Eleni : I hope you realize we will all suffer thanks to this.
Eleni : I'd rather not, but...
Damian : *pulls at belt* I already stink.
Telemachus : There's not a scratch on it, nor rust
Telemachus : considering where it's been there must be something special about it..
Eleni : It's... odd.
Eleni : Like armour you'd made for a vermin-hunter, and about as pleasant as you mighr expect.
Polytropos : Looks just right for you, Tel!
Damian : Aye.
Polytropos : *grimace-grin*
Telemachus : It smells like an animal
Eleni : *Shakses her head* I cannot approve of your choice of attire. But then, that's hardly any change.

Leonidas : deathwalkers at the end of this passage
Leonidas : 2 guarding chamber
Damian : You'll get used to it. I'll make sure Aias doesnt' try to bite you or anything.
Leonidas : at least
Polytropos : No problem.
Telemachus : It's better than what I've got... I'll just have to wear something else when we're in polite company...
Eleni : Surely something can be spared for our Naked Thracian, now?
Leonidas : around the corner and dead ahead
Telemachus : If he doesn't mind wearing a hoplite breastplate.
Telemachus : Might have to take it back at the end of our journy though

Thrax : Deaaath!
Thrax: Ha! Barely a challenge.
Telemachus : here, put it on
Thrax: Ah, quality armor.
Leonidas : some runes on the floor
Eleni : Hm.
Polytropos : That angry red writing on the floor looks mean.
Eleni : *Inspects the runes*
Leonidas : *watches*
Polytropos : On the other hand, I don't know how to open this.
Andreas Appolodorus: What's behind the curtains?
Eleni : They /are/ fairly mean. A warning, I believe.
Leonidas : hmm
Eleni : Quite a flord one. 'Death comes to all yada ya' and such.
Eleni : *florid
Polytropos : Well, we're in a hurry...
Leonidas : So now what?
Eleni : The way down is near, yes? Supposedly.
Eleni : I did not glimpse the map.
Polytropos : It doesn't open.
Telemachus : What about the secret space?
Leonidas : It's through yonder unopenable door
Eleni : The secret space might have something to do with whatever is past this curtain.
Polytropos : It's just bars, it's...
Leonidas : Indeed
Damian : *pulls out a woodland kit* Is it safe here?
Leonidas : you could try battering it down I suppose.
Eleni : But we could try breaking the door as well, I suppose.
Telemachus : *sniffs the liquid*
Eleni : It's the middle of a hostile stronghold.
Eleni : Of course it's not.
Damian : We cleared this area though.
Telemachus : Think this is for something?
Polytropos : *looks throughtfully at the curtains*
Polytropos : Well, nothing ventured.

Polytropos : ... aw, it's another statue.
Eleni : ...hm. Does it have eyes?
Telemachus : Does it have the same gems?
Polytropos : Y...es.
Leonidas : hmm
Damian : I hope you know what you're doing, Leo.
Leonidas : I don't which makes it more interesting
Polytropos : We might have to look for the other way in. Didn't the lizard say something about another...?
Leonidas : *pries out eyes*
Eleni : Yes. I assume this /was/ the 'other', though.
Eleni : One for the beasts. One of the cultists.
Telemachus : Is there a clue on that pice of paper?
Telemachus : something about heads?
Eleni : We haven't ran into any beasts down here, barring the bear and the badger. Ergo...
Eleni : 'Death's Head'.
Polytropos : Hm.
Eleni : Sealed certainly sounds like it might refe to the statue, I suppose? Though curtains aren't /much/ of a seal.
Eleni : Lost to man is the oracle wise.
Polytropos : I've got nothing.
Eleni : Not terribly helpful, that bit.
Leonidas : *examines*
Telemachus : Maybe it's something outside?
Damian : *shrugs*
Eleni : *Examines the basin* Perhaps...
Leonidas : We obviously need something to open that gate.
Eleni : Or, find the entrance to the other side..
Damian : Does that basin have anything to do with the door, Eleni?
Eleni : The beastman part of the ruins must be a largely seperate complex.
Eleni : I don't know. It's probably just for ritual purposes - but then, the key might be some sort of ritual.
Leonidas : From the map, there doesn't seem to be another way in but that one.
Thrax: The next course is obvious. Find more enemies, then destroy them.
Leonidas : Of course, it's not highly detailed, so some things could be missing.
Eleni : We're working on the 'finding' part there.
Leonidas : There does appear to be a small passage or chamber that might be a hidden one.
Leonidas : There's no indication of how it might be accessed though.
Eleni : Whereabouts?
Telemachus : Where is it? we could use the gem
Leonidas : It is just north of the place were we found the wolverine and the big chamber just west of there.
Polytropos : You say this says something about a secret entrance near the stairs to the surface, right...
Leonidas : I did a cursory look for secret doors when we were in those chambers, but didn't notice any.
Eleni : Yes.
Polytropos : What if this never opened?
Polytropos : Everyone just uses some other door.
Leonidas : It's possible I suppose.
Leonidas : Like I said, there's no indication of other stairs down besides those over there.
Eleni : We'll not find out standing here.
Leonidas : Indeed
Thrax: All this talking is unseemly. Is this a knitting circle?
Polytropos : Let's go!
Thrax: Let us find some enemies to smite.
Polytropos : We can always come back.
Andreas Appolodorus: Nice armor.
Thrax: Your comrade gifted it to me.
Eleni : How nice of him.
Telemachus : *lent* it to you.
Polytropos : Careful what you wish for...
Eleni : You'll see plenty more, I'm sure...

Damian : Tel.
Telemachus : See em?
Polytropos : Dammit, that one ran inside.
Eleni : I'm not sure that means 'charge in after him' is the logical response.
Damian : Since when do we listen to logic?

Eleni : ...eesh.
Damian : Bats now?
Eleni : Aah!
Eleni : *Slips and falls*
Polytropos : Stuff is slippy.
Eleni : *...in the guano*
Eleni : Ugh..
Damian : *helps Eleni up*
Eleni : I will not be able to wash my clothes enough..
Damian : *listens at the door* I thought I heard something behind this door.
Polytropos : Let's do it.
Telemachus : You should be used to this by now.
Polytropos : Guh.
Eleni : There is truly no end to the varieties of unpleasant creatures in this place, is there?
Damian : *wipes guano off of his knees*
Telemachus : *picks the shield up and looks at it, then tosses it back on the floor*
Polytropos : I don't get it.
Damian : Hmm? No, not yet.
Leonidas : secret door
Damian : Don't forget, Thrax, you're wearing armor because I searched through wastes.

Beastman Subchief : For the Immortal King!
Polytropos : Could this be it?
Eleni : Maybe?
Polytropos : The place mentioned in the parchment you have, I mean.
Polytropos : *head in, for a look*
Telemachus : Probably should have finished searching that hallway...
Polytropos : Uhoh
Eleni : Well said.

Damian : What are they doing?
Eleni : ....waiting?
Andreas Appolodorus: What now?
Eleni : If you want me to make the first strike...
Damian : Go ahead, I'm out of spells.
Polytropos : Let's see if they make trouble.
Polytropos : Gbluh
Telemachus : uhmm.. pol?d
Eleni : What's he..
Polytropos : *falls, and does not get up.*
Damian : Lovely.
Andreas Appolodorus: Come on attack me!
Leonidas : *watches*
Telemachus : *grabs pols foot and drags him back*
Eleni : ...or we could... do that.
Damian : *slaps Pol*
Eleni : *Urp*
Thrax: I do not like this place.
Polytropos : *asleep, still*
Andreas Appolodorus: Eleni!
Eleni : *Seems to have fallen to the same affliction*
Andreas Appolodorus: Wake Up!
Damian : *kneels down and sees if he can rouse Pol*
Andreas Appolodorus: leo!
Andreas Appolodorus: Pol!
Leonidas : zzzz
Telemachus : *starts grabbing people to pull them out of the room*
Thrax: Now is not the time to rest!
Thrax: *carries Eleni*
Polytropos : zzzzmurbl.
Damian : *grabs Pol's ankles* Come on.
Andreas Appolodorus: I take Leo *grab Leo *
Polytropos : Whoozawha?
Eleni : Is carried, like unto a sack of potatoes*
Thrax: My mother told me once of a curse that caused a hero to fall into a slumber for a thousand years.
Polytropos : Who wha? Oh, that was odd.
Leonidas : zzzzzz
Thrax: It took the kiss of a fair maiden to wake him. I wonder if it works in reverse? *Bending over Eleni*
Telemachus : You picked an odd time for a nap
Telemachus : Ah-ah-ah
Polytropos : Couldn't help it, I just... had to.
Telemachus : we'll wait for it to wear off thanks.
Thrax: You doubt that I am a true hero?
Andreas Appolodorus: Was there any exit?
Eleni : *Careses crossbow in her sleep, muttering*
Telemachus : Kiss Leo if you're that keen to try it.
Telemachus : *shakes the sleepers*
Thrax: Well. He does have the look of a woman in yon attire, but I will pass, I think.
Damian : *poors a little water over Leo and Eleni*
Eleni : Bwuh?
Leonidas : *yawns*
Eleni : *Rouses*
Leonidas : what happened?
Thrax: *looks disappointed*
Eleni : ...what just... yeah. What he said.
Damian : You two fell asleep.
Telemachus : You fell asleep like Pol did.
Eleni : Huh.
Leonidas : I was sleeping with Eleni?
Telemachus : It might be the white mist?
Polytropos : Creepy.
Damian : Something like that.
Eleni : Maybe. Or just... some sort of ward.
Leonidas : Cool!
Polytropos : I came close to those curtains, and then...
Eleni : *Rubs her eyes* Shut up, Leo.
Damian : Shame you don't remember it, Leo.
Telemachus : Eleni and Leo weren't really near them though
Leonidas : *smiles*
Polytropos : Well, I'm ready for it this time.
Eleni : Damian got closer, I think... still...
Leonidas : I've a good imagination though.
Damian : Didn't affect me at all. *shrugs*
Eleni : Pol....
Leonidas : perhaps a song.
Telemachus : Maybe if we light the braziers it'll clear some of the mist
Polytropos : Ya! *slashes curtain.*
Polytropos : ... oh, it's a door... oh, that's not a bad idea.
Eleni : So long as you keep the products of your imagination to yourself.

Polytropos : Y- zzz.
Eleni : Oh, dear....
Damian : Ugh...
Eleni : ...Damian, too!
Leonidas : Think I'll just watch from here.
Telemachus : *lit both braziers despite appearances*
Eleni : *Whups*
Thrax: Perhaps if the smoke is coming from these?
Damian : *snores*
Thrax: Put out fire, and smoke goes away.
Leonidas : nice
Telemachus : Wakey wakey
Thrax: *glances over at Telemachus to see if he is looking*
Polytropos : Wstfgl.
Telemachus : *poke poke*
Leonidas : *watches*
Thrax: *sneaks a kiss*
Eleni : *Manages, somehow, to accidentally fire her crossbow in her slumber*
Thrax: *looks disappointed that it doesn't work*
Andreas Appolodorus: Ah
Thrax: Hmm.
Thrax: Ow!
Damian : *slowly stands up* Whatza? Oh dear.
Eleni : *Blinks*
Damian : *rubs eyes* Are you okay, Eleni?
Polytropos : Urrrgh... head swimming.
Eleni : Urgh, I was barely near the thing...
Polytropos : *shakes his head, to clear it.*
Damian : I think it was the smoke.
Polytropos : Ach.
Eleni : It... seems the problem has been solved in my absence, yes.
Andreas Appolodorus: Ah
Damian : Good thing, too. I don't like lying down on the job.
Eleni : Those robed figures, I... suppose they were in a similar reverie?
Telemachus : The braziers were spilling smoke

Polytropos : Lots of doors.
Damian : Could be cells.
Polytropos : *back to back!*
Telemachus : make for the door!
Damian : Andreas, let it through!
Eleni : Ah... gods...
Telemachus : pheeeew
Telemachus : Ah damn.
Eleni : Damian, I think Thrax...
Leonidas : Looks like Thrax bit it.
Polytropos : Alas, alack.
Eleni : *Wince* Yes...
Eleni : I was afraid of that.
Damian : *checks him over*
Telemachus : Is there ought to be done for him?
Leonidas : Guess that kiss wasn't so lucky?
Eleni : What kiss?
Leonidas : Oh nothing.
Eleni : *Frowns*
Damian : I can do nothing for him.
Telemachus : *sighs*
Damian : He is with the Gods now.
Telemachus : we'll lay him out in one of these rooms.
Leonidas : Might wanna reclaim the stuff you loaned him.
Polytropos : Um... there was this...
Polytropos : *shows the golden skull helm.*
Polytropos : Not sure if this is the 'death's head'.
Telemachus : *Tactfully removes armour and arranges him in one of the alcoves of the crypt*
Leonidas : Nice looking helm
Damian : That looks very useful.
Eleni : Uh, yes. Though I'm not sure if he'd want to buried naked..
Leonidas : That's how he came into the world, no?
Eleni : He seemed like the sort who'd want to die facing an overwhelming horde of enemies, at least.
Telemachus : We exactly have proper funeral garments

[Karvon]

Lazyzeus : We resume with the group stealing a night's rest within the hidden shrine...

Polytropos : *exaggerated whisper* What now?
Andreas Appolodorus: Are we making a camp?
Eleni : *Opens one eye* Now, we regain our strength.
Polytropos : *unsettled look at the statue.*
Leonidas : *helps himself to some rations and wine*
Polytropos : *again with the whispering.* Would anyone like this thing? It creeps me out.
Damian : Not my best, but it's hard to cook on the road.
Eleni : ...hm.
Eleni : Ooh.
Eleni : So /that's/ how they pass the fog themselves.
Damian : Might be good for Eleni; we dont' need our sorcerer casting fireballs at us.
Leonidas : *shrugs* I think it looks sorta cool.
Leonidas : But suspect one of the warriors best wear it.
Polytropos : Yeah, I've felt what that'sd like.
Polytropos : *offers Andreas a potion.*
Eleni : Well, I wouldn't want to wear all around all the time..
Leonidas : I'd rather our front line not turn on the back.
Andreas Appolodorus: What that strange bronze helmet?
Eleni : But I should be more capable of resisting such things myself, yes, it's true
Leonidas : But hey do what you like.
Damian : If you won't wear it, Eleni, I will.
Damian : But I think you should.
Telemachus : eeeeh.. I don't like it.. I don't think I'd be able to see.
Polytropos : Fine, let's get this done. This place is chilling.
Eleni : *Smirks* I'm not sure 'walking dead' suits you any more than it does me, Damian.
Leonidas : You could always cuddle up with the bear.
Damian : *shrugs* It's a helmet.
Telemachus : You could keep it handy and pull it on when you need it
Andreas Appolodorus: One of you should use it if it can prevent your head from being smashed.
Eleni : Of course... 'when we need it' might turn out to be 'right before we think about putting it on'.
Polytropos : C'mooon.
Leonidas : Indeed.
Damian : *puts the helmet on* LEt's go.

Eleni : ...did we lock this?
Polytropos : Careful now.
Polytropos : We haven't been down here.
Leonidas : think I looked down here
Eleni : Yes. Might well be another ambush ahead.
Leonidas : might be a trap there
Leonidas : yep
Damian : Wouldn't surprise me.
Leonidas : *examines*
Leonidas : yesh
Leonidas : *backs away slowly*
Damian : That difficult?
Eleni : Beyond your abilities, Leo?
Leonidas : could say that
Leonidas : very deadly energy drain trap
Damian : *looks at Eleni* Might need a doorknocker.
Eleni : We might just.
Eleni : There's another path, though.
Leonidas : *examines*
Eleni : Shall I commence with the melting, or...
Telemachus : melt.
Damian : I can restore some abilities, but that trap may be beyond my capabilities to deal with.
Leonidas : this one seems clear and unlocked.
Polytropos : Oh! I got it.
Eleni : You did?
Polytropos : Yeah!
Eleni : Oh. Huh.
Eleni : Well, one less reason to keep Leo around, I suppose.
Polytropos : I saw the thing, finally.
Polytropos : Naw!
Leonidas : *shrugs*
Polytropos : Took me ages to even notice it.
Eleni : *Smirks* Regardless. Can we get it open?
Telemachus : want to open it then?
Leonidas : Looks clear.
Telemachus : and get ready to slam it shut

Eleni : Um... hello?
Polytropos : Aw dang.
Macreus: *sits in a throne, his eyes shut*
Telemachus : .. huh..
Eleni : ..more fog.
Eleni : Do be careful.
Leonidas : Right, shall we look elsewhere?
Damian : Want the helm, Eleni? You seem to have the silver tongue.
Eleni : Hm. If he sleeps, then perhaps someone wearing the skull-helmet could get close....
Andreas Appolodorus: I can walk in there.
Eleni : *Blinks at Damian* I don't quite see how the two are related.
Macreus: *stirs*
Leonidas : Sure, but can you walk out?
Eleni : Andreas, don't -
Macreus: *eyes open, he looks at you intently*
Eleni : ...oh, dear.
Damian : Might need to talk to him.
Andreas Appolodorus: Hello yourself.
Macreus: *eyes narrow* Your speech, it is strange.
Eleni : *Tilts head* How long have been asleep?
Polytropos : Erk.
Polytropos : Uh, no. No day of the dead. What day of the dead?
Macreus: You bear potent magic.
Andreas Appolodorus: We are g\Greeks.
Macreus: Which god do you serve, Greeks?
Andreas Appolodorus: Zeus.
Macreus: Bah.
Andreas Appolodorus: But that's just me.
Leonidas : *listens*
Macreus: How did you find this place?
Polytropos : We... uh, followed the trail of an army of beast men.
Andreas Appolodorus: what? just followed my friends.
Macreus: Beast... men?
Polytropos : I don't know, I assumed you'd know what I was talking about.
Eleni : Who do, indeed, appear to be encamped near this place.
Macreus: Have you met others dressed as I am, Greeks?
Macreus: I have slumbered long, I fear.
Eleni : ...clearly.
Polytropos : *squint*
Damian : *w* Do we really want Pol and Andreas talking to this "man"?
Eleni : Who, exactly, are you?
Leonidas : Why not?
Macreus: I know of no beast men. This place is sacred to my kind.
Damian : I'd rather avoid a fight if we can.
Macreus: I am Macreus, Priest of Tha--- the True God.
Eleni : Thanatos, I have to assume you were going to say.
Andreas Appolodorus: Who would workship a fake God?
Macreus: Apparently the passage of time has rendered the protections set upon this place moot.
Macreus: You know of my god. You have met others of my sect then, I presume.
Eleni : Yes.
Eleni : We did not exactly get along.
Macreus: I see.
Leonidas : Perhaps the sect has changed since you slept?
Eleni : *w* If I make a move, run out of the room and cover the door.
Eleni : Tell me..
Macreus: Forgive me, I have long slumbered, and my body is weak. I would gain clear of this chamber.
Telemachus : Yeah, before you took your nap, were your sect into ruining entire kingdoms and slaughtering thousands of innocents?
Macreus: You speak of things you do not understand, warrior.
Eleni : Would you approve of allying with demons, summoning hordes of monsters and unleashing them upon civilized lands to destroy and pillage?
Telemachus : They're pretty simple things. I'm good at simple.
Macreus: All men achieve death. Our goal is merely to find perfection in it.
Macreus: This slaughter you speak of, it is crude and does not serve the True God.
Macreus: I suspect you are speaking of these "Beast Men" of which you referred.
Polytropos : The Noles.
Eleni : Among other things, yes.
Eleni : But it seems...
Leonidas : *w* I wonder how much we should be telling this guy.
Eleni : Well, it seems your brothers and sisters are being deceived.
Macreus: It seems that much has happened since I began my slumber.
Eleni : You could say that. Do you know of one called the Immortal King?
Macreus: No.
Eleni : Well, he seems to have rather upset things here.
Macreus: Hmm.
Damian : *w* He might be able to help.
Leonidas : True
Macreus: Have you consulted the Oracle yet?
Telemachus : *w* He might be what the cultists were looking for down here..
Polytropos : The who what?
Polytropos : You mean... at Delphi, or...?
Eleni : The Oracle? The only ones I know of are far from here, but then we are not of this land.
Macreus: It is not far from this room.
Macreus: Assuming that too has not changed.
Polytropos : We're near Delphi now...
Polytropos : ?
Macreus: I have already asked my question, but perhaps you could gain wisdom.
Macreus: If I might show you the way?
Damian : I think he means a different one, Pol.
Eleni : *Frowns*
Polytropos : Hey! That's what the message meant on the papyrus. That riddle passage.
Telemachus : the what?
Eleni : Lost to man is the oracle wise. Yes.
Polytropos : O Wise Thing, Under the Ground, Hidden Something Something, It's Through a Secret Door...
Polytropos : That's the one!
Macreus: It would seem that our interests coincide then, Greeks.
Eleni : Sealed forever in ceaseless mourning, captive and kept from service to man.
Eleni : ...if that is you, what were you mourning?
Polytropos : That part isn't so cheerful.
Macreus: Mourning the imperfection of man, and his vision.
Macreus: Once there was a great temple here.
Macreus: Ruled by a king who has long since passed into the annals of legend.
Macreus: My people believe that such a day shall one day come again.
Polytropos : Well, that's weird.
Eleni : An Immortal King?
Macreus: Clearly my awakening was ... premature.
Macreus: *shakes head* No, the idea is that we would all become immortal, once the True God became one with those who follow Him.
Macreus: But I would not expect you to understand. You are not of the mysteries.
Eleni : Whoever this creature is, he seems to be trying to fullfill these prophecies with the aim of manipulating your people.
Macreus: If that is true, then this King is my enemy.
Macreus: These beasts are despoiling your lands, I presume?
Eleni : Not ours. But those of our allies.
Macreus: Well then. Shall we proceed?
Eleni : ...lead on, I suppose.
Telemachus : *watches him like a hawk*
Macreus: Do not be alarmed at my followers. They will not act unless I so command.
Eleni : I see...
Leonidas : *Wanders along behind*

Macreus: These corridors appear undisturbed. So much dust... I must have slept for many years indeed.
Eleni : Why were you sent into a long slumber like that?
Macreus: *waves hand* The details of our mysteries are not for the uninitiated.

Macreus: Oracle! The followers of the True Faith have returned! Share with us your wisdom!
Eleni : You will have to forgive me for not trusting you implicitly, if that is how you answer my questsions.
Polytropos : Nothing... here?
Macreus: Trust is earned. I would not expect it to be freely given.
Macreus: Wait.
Andreas Appolodorus: * look around *
Eleni : *Eyes dart about the chamber*
Telemachus : *divides attention between Macreus and the podium*
Andreas Appolodorus: * w* Where? I don't see anyone.
Andreas Appolodorus: There!
Oracular Skull : Speak petitioner and have thy say, that I may answer yea or nay.
Macreus: *holds up a hand* You may ask it any one question that has a yes or no answer.
Eleni : Well, that rather limits our options....
Macreus: As I said, I have already asked it one, so I would recommend that you seek knowledge of your foe.
Polytropos : You mean... all of us have one each, or...?
Macreus: Each person may ask once.
Polytropos : Right.
Andreas Appolodorus: shhh that's a question silly.
Polytropos : Darn.
Eleni : Not strictly a yes-or-no one, though.
Polytropos : ... I think I got away with it.
Telemachus : uhm, someone work out what we should ask it.
Macreus: We shall see if the Greeks of this age are wise. *smirks and leans against the wall with folded arms*
Polytropos : Hmph.
Eleni : Well. What do we suspect of our enemy?
Macreus: If you need a suggestion, let me know.
Damian : I'd like to know if he's an undead creature or not. That should help us when we face him.
Telemachus : We know he's sending things from far away through some kind of doors..
Polytropos : *squinting and frowning, racking his brains.*
Polytropos : We... hm.
Damian : That or how we can defeat him.
Eleni : Yes, we know that. We can't ask this Oracle /how/ we would go about closign those protals, though...
Eleni : But.
Telemachus : we know he's allied with the cultists *shoots glance at Macreus*
Eleni : We do know this demon-creature is responsible for summoning them.
Macreus: Apparently not, if that parchment you showed me is accurate.
Polytropos : We... hm.
Eleni : We can ask if slaying it would prevent any more from following.
Polytropos : We could ask it if this is the same thing as the monsters we fought near Sparta...
Eleni : *Reminds everyone of the parchments, for reference*
Damian : Or if we can slay it at all.
Eleni : A worthless question, Damian.
Telemachus : We could ask if he's really immortal
Leonidas : *keeps an eye and ear open standing watch outside*
Eleni : No matter the answer, we will have to try anyway.
Polytropos : Ooo, I like that one.
Polytropos : Can ask if he be killed with a blade.
Damian : *shrugs*
Telemachus : hmm.. we could ask if we could slay him with the means already at our disposal
Eleni : That may be a good idea.
Leonidas : Might wanna make that weapons, or that could include spells.
Eleni : *Eyes dart to Marceus* We could also ask if our new friend can be trusted. Though that raises the question of whether this oracle can be...
Telemachus : We want to include spells.
Leonidas : *shrugs*
Eleni : 'Means at our disposal' quite neatly covers everything.
Macreus: I will save you the question and give you the answer: No. But you knew that already.
Damian : *to Macreus* Wisdom comes from knowledge and experience and we would welcome yours.
Macreus: You could ask if the Immortal King serves Thanatos.
Eleni : Hmph. Would that change your opinion of him?
Polytropos : *dubious look.*
Telemachus : Theirs already seemed like an alliance of convenience..
Eleni : I think we already know the answer to that, anyway. He speaks of "the humans and THEIR death-god".
Macreus: I am as interested in knowing more of this King as you are.
Macreus: You have a skill at reading between the lines, sorceress.
Macreus: I bow to your wisdom.
Eleni : And now you're just trying to flatter me.
Telemachus : We could ask if this immortal king is in greece
Polytropos : We really are wise!
Telemachus : he might be through one of the portals far away
Damian : Those lines are so wide, Aias could run through them.
Macreus: You could ask if he is _of_ Greece as well.
Eleni : It is possible, yes...
Eleni : The lizard-men we spoke to seemed to think he was of a diferent world entirely. As were they.
Macreus: Well, you have six questions, unless you have trained yon bear to speak.
Eleni : It might just be a very distant land, I suppose.
Telemachus : Or a different part of the world maybe?
Macreus: Ah, it appears that you have information then that I do not.
Eleni : Alright. How many good questions do we have? And could we possibly consult the Oracle later, should we have the need, or is this the only chance we will have?
Damian : Aias can speak, just not in a language most would understand.
Lazyzeus : An interesting question. Can an animal companion achieve awareness of the True God? We never thought to test that in my day.
Polytropos : Hm. Is the King of these lands, is he immortal, uh...
Damian : Is he of this world?
Eleni : We can ask if the king can be slain with the means at our disposal. We can ask if slaying the creature will halt the coming of new beastmen into this land.
Polytropos : Is he responsible for other troubles we've seen elsewhere...
Eleni : If not, the Immortal King has ways of controlling them and managing portals on his own.
Macreus: If you seek accountability, then ask.
Eleni : That might be interesting to know, Pol, but not immediately helpful.
Damian : We'd best to focus on matters at hand, Pol, though that is a good question.
Macreus: You must be precise about whom you speak, however. "King of these lands" can refer to your king, or to the Immortal King, or some other king recognized by another authority.
Eleni : 'The One who called himself the Immortal King'?
Eleni : *calls
Macreus: Ask your question, then.
Telemachus : "who is known as"
Macreus: You will know it when the Oracle answers.
Telemachus : we don't know what he calls himself.
Eleni : Hm. That might be better, yes.
Eleni : He did sign this letter as 'Immortal King', though.
Telemachus : Oh. I didn't read that/.
Damian : That parchemnt says "The Immortal King" so that's probably what he calls himself.
Eleni : I might as well start...
Leonidas : You might want to reference the letter as part of the question then.
Polytropos : *rubs his forehead.*
Damian : Did he write that letter though?
Leonidas : A lot of kings might call themselves immortal as part of their title.
Polytropos : ... hey, yeah...
Macreus: The Greeks of my day were not so much interested in the pedagogy of discourse.
Leonidas : Times change
Andreas Appolodorus: When we are ready perhaps ask any question starting by "Oracle".
Macreus: Remember that the answers to your first questions may determine the course of the others.
Telemachus : I'd much rather be slaying monsters too but we don't want to screw it all up.
Telemachus : maybe we should work out if the immortal king is even the boss
Damian : Ask your question, Eleni. We'll decide on the others based on the answer.

Eleni : *Ahem* Oracle, can the one known as the Immortal King, the one spoken of in these missives, be slain or destroyed with the means presently at our - that being myself and my companions - disposal?
Eleni : ...I hope that was clear enough.
Oracular Skull : Yea.
Eleni : Oh. Lovely.
Telemachus : hah. not so immortal.
Oracular Skull : Your question has been answered, and ye are now Thanatos's own.

Eleni : Ah...
Andreas Appolodorus: Hm
Eleni : What was that...?
Macreus: *waves a hand* Pay it no heed, just a part of the ritual.
Leonidas : hnn
Damian : So, what's our second question?
Polytropos : *suspicious look.*
Eleni : *Narrows her eyes* Was there a cost to this oracle's services you neglected to mention?
Telemachus : *peturbed look*
Macreus: When the day comes that you are close to death, then you will see the shade of Thanatos come for you. Most mortals cannot see this, it is quite an honor.
Macreus: In that moment, then you will gain true understanding.
Leonidas : Close to death???
Macreus: Hopefully many years away, of course.
Polytropos : Nrgh.
Leonidas : Not in our line of work friend.
Damian : Just ask Tel.
Macreus: Yes, he knows of which I speak. I can feel it on him. Twice passed the veil, have you?
Eleni : *Shakes head*
Telemachus : Dying's easy. Living is a lot more effort.
Telemachus : Don't worry too much.
Damian : *taps Tel on the head* That's what the stone skin is for. *grins*
Macreus: But you know of what I speak. You feel it in your soul, as if a big piece of you has been torn away. A big empty hole, waiting to be filled again.
Macreus: Do not fear death, for in it we find completeness.
Macreus: You have had your answer, now ask, ask.
Eleni : What was the question you asked it, anyway?
Macreus: Ah, it only affected me personally. I was young, and selfish.
Macreus: I suspect all involved are long since dead.
Telemachus : hm. ok. What should I ask it?
Macreus: I do not seek to rush you, I only remind you that these beast men are probably ravaging villages as we speak.
Damian : If defeating the king will stop the beastmen and others from coming through the portals. Basically, if it'll end the war.
Telemachus : There's not a lot left for them to ravage
Telemachus : Why don't I just say "end the war" ?
Damian : You'll need to specify "which" war.
Eleni : The king and his creature.
Eleni : The one summoning the beastmen.
Telemachus : ok..
Eleni : Are you sure you want to this?
Eleni : I don't know what the question did to me, but it felt... wrong.
Telemachus : .. wrong how?
Macreus: There is no harm in understanding death.
Eleni : *Shrugs*
Eleni : I don't know...
Macreus: But if you would prefer to be ignorant, then we may depart at any time.
Eleni : But there's clearly more to this than we're being told. Whether you want to take the chance anyway is up to you.
Telemachus : well we need answers.
Polytropos : *narrows his eyes.*
Telemachus : what's next question to be? the most important?

Polytropos : Floating oracle skull! Is there a price that we aren't aware of attached to getting an answer from you that we would not wish?
Eleni : *Clacks tongue*
Telemachus : ... you realise you're going to pay it, if there is..
Oracular Skull : Yea.
Polytropos : I'm not thinking that far ahead.
Polytropos : Though - ha!
Eleni : ...clearly not.
Oracular Skull : Your question has been answered and you are now Thanatos's own.

Polytropos : Gnhgh.
Polytropos : *shudder.*
Eleni : I'm not sure if that was noble or stupid.
Polytropos : It can't be both?
Telemachus : little of boyth.
Macreus: What I said was true, if incomplete.
Andreas Appolodorus: This reminds me of the arena thinking that the other team is cheating and trying to know how.
Polytropos : incomplete.
Macreus: It is really minor quibbling at this point.
Andreas Appolodorus: Still we faced them without knowing for sure and we won. I trust Zeus on this one.
Polytropos : Nyyyyeah.
Macreus: As I said, when you approach death, you will see the Avatar of Thanatos. It comes for all men, but only the initiated have this insight.
Macreus: What I left out is that if you are on the edge of death's precipice, the Avatar will carry you over, into death.
Eleni : Meaning...
Eleni : We can't be returned to life, as Tel was?
Andreas Appolodorus: If my time has come I shall embrace death not run from it.
Polytropos : *unhappy sowl.*
Macreus: Why would you wish that?
Polytropos : *scowl, too.*
Eleni : Because I rather like living.
Macreus: Here, allow me to clarify.

Polytropos : The Villain!
Andreas Appolodorus: What?
Eleni : Gah...
Telemachus : DAMN
Leonidas : Um
Telemachus : we really should have seen that comming
Telemachus : we spent too long talking
Polytropos : How'd you like that for wisdom, eh, death man!
Polytropos : We smoked 'im out.
Eleni : Yes. And the answers we got were hardly worth it...
Telemachus : we need to get after him
Telemachus : well yours was..
Leonidas : Do we even know if there was an oracle or he wasn't just answering with his magic somehow?
Eleni : Not really. It doesn't affect how we will approach this.
Eleni : If that were the case, Leo, he would not have answered yes to the last question.
Polytropos : Guh!
Telemachus : that's not right..
Polytropos : Some sort of magic on the door.
Leonidas : Then are you going to finish asking questions or leave?
Eleni : Ugh...
Eleni : Tel and Pol went and chased him.

Polytropos : Blow that, Tel, he's long gone.
Eleni : ...does this mean we're trapped in here?
Telemachus : There's a thing on the door..
Polytropos : You're the magician.
Eleni : Sorceress!
Leonidas : same difference
Eleni : *Inspects the ward*
Eleni : *....if that's what it is*
Eleni : ...well. I'm reasonably certain it will explode.
Eleni : If any of us touch it, that is.
Telemachus : how big of an explode?
Eleni : I'm not sure if it will explode /repeatedly/.
Polytropos : Call me a scared son of a slave, but I don't want to die any more.
Eleni : *Shrugs, apolegetic* It's a magic of faith. Not so much my area.
Polytropos : Even less than I already did.
Eleni : I know, Pol.
Andreas Appolodorus: What now?
Eleni : I guess we'll just have to be extra-specially-careful about not dying.
Polytropos : Well... there was a whole lot more to those catacombs...
Eleni : Yes. Only choice is to descend, it seems.
Polytropos : Still. 'Let's see if the Greeks are wise'. Ha! We showed him... sort of...
Polytropos : ... I'm counting this as a victory.
Telemachus : I was ready to lop his head off for the first half hour or so but really we talked so much I got distracted
Eleni : He only took a third of our souls, I suppose.
Polytropos : It's fine.
Polytropos : We'll make some offerings to a greater god's shrine or something and get this all sorted out.
Leonidas : nother stone door ahead I unlocked it and doesn't look trapped.
Telemachus : if you get hurt and the avatar of Thanatos show's up, we'll give him a kicking and send him packing.
Eleni : Maybe this isn't permanent, Pol. But we'll have to figure that out later.
Polytropos : Yeah!
Polytropos : Are we - oh, there's Damien.
Polytropos : And Andreas! We are united.
Telemachus : sooo... open it?

Polytropos : Skeletons! Hold the breach!
Leonidas : I don't feel so good
Polytropos : Feels icky.
Eleni : Ugh. I feel nauseaus, as well..
Telemachus : eew
Polytropos : ... hey, tehre's something shining...
Eleni : Ah, thanks...
Damian : That's it for my kits.
Telemachus : yoink
Leonidas : great so I'm stuck being sick?
Polytropos : Fine work there.
Polytropos : *gave Damien some medicines.*
Leonidas : oh thanks
Eleni : Ah... this mace should be useful.
Andreas Appolodorus: Dancing mushrooms?
Damian : Aye.
Eleni : It is keyed to control the undead around here.
Leonidas : Doesn't seem to be another way out.
Andreas Appolodorus: Do we need to burn that thing?
Eleni : I believe they'll be less inclined to strike you as well, so long as you're wielding it.
Leonidas : Unless you feel like climbing down an ravine to who knows where.
Polytropos : We're missing something. I swear I can see something across the way, like a... walkway, or something, but it's far, far too far to reach from here.
Damian : *glances at the mace and shivers*
Telemachus : matches your helmet Damien.
Damian : True, but my helmet doesn't control undead.
Telemachus : Well if nobody will use it, someone carry it.
Damian : *picks up the mace* Fine. May the Gods forgive me...
Telemachus : For what?
Telemachus : it doesn't wake the dead does it?
Damian : For blasphemy against the natural order.
Eleni : It only controls them, I think.
Telemachus : right
Damian : Oh. Right. Never mind then.
Eleni : *Sighs*
Telemachus : so you can command them to go back to sleep.
Damian : *shrugs*
Eleni : We've no choice but the ward, then?
Polytropos : Far as I can make out...
Eleni : Alright. Wel, then I have an idea or two.

Telemachus : Wards gone?
Eleni : ...oh. It's gone.
Polytropos : Your ideas worked!
Damian : *tries to swing the mace around and barely misses Eleni's head* You know, I don't think I should be using this thing.
Eleni : ...yes. Yes, they did.
Polytropos : Let's see it.
Eleni : The ward fled in terror of my ideas.
Leonidas : anyone search the throne room?
Polytropos : No, it's all smoky.
Telemachus : Looks like nothing but a big chair in there anyway.
Eleni : Were there any other paths we missed?
Polytropos : Only the one deeper into the main complex, where the gnolls waited.
Leonidas : I didn't note any other secret doors.
Eleni : Right.
Telemachus : we didnt go this way

Leonidas : Guys, I smelled fresh blood back toward the direction of the entrance.
Eleni : ..you smelled fresh blood?
Leonidas : Hey, I have good senses.
Telemachus : we spilt a lot of blood that way comming in..
Eleni : Those of a hound, it seems.
Leonidas : Handy in many situations.
Polytropos : Well, let's check what's there.
Eleni : There was another passage by the entrance. Maybe our friend went that way.
Telemachus : what about what's here?
Eleni : It's not going anywhere, I'm sure.
Leonidas : indeed
Polytropos : There was that set of footprints that we couldn't figure out...
Damian : I dunno.
Eleni : ...yes.
Polytropos : Gack./
Eleni : This wasn't our work, I think.
Damian : No it wasn't.
Damian : Ugh. Not this again.
Damian : Careful!
Eleni : Nothing else here for us, I gather.
Damian : Haven't we already been here?
Telemachus : We have.

Lazyzeus : Vermin have been at the bodies of the lizardmen you battled here before, but there are no indications that anyone else has come this way.

Leonidas : yeah
Damian : That's what I thought.
Polytropos : He must've headed back into the other part of the complex.
Leonidas : indeed
Eleni : Possibly, yes. He might know of more paths than we do.
Leonidas : wonder if he has the key?
Polytropos : Maybe. But there's two ways in, right? One for the men, one for the gnolls...?
Eleni : Yes.
Telemachus : anyone got some carry weight spare?
Damian : I can.
Damian : Not much. Only about 20 lbs.
Andreas Appolodorus: can
Andreas Appolodorus: I could take two more you know.
Telemachus : It's alright for you, you don't have to wear anything.
Andreas Appolodorus: No it's because I'm strong like a lion.
Damian : More like an ox.
Polytropos : You're a proper Hercules.
Andreas Appolodorus: Ah
Damian : Where's Tel?
Damian : Oh.
Eleni : Right behind you.

Leonidas : Danger ahead!
Damian : Rats.
Leonidas : beastmen
Eleni : I don't suppo

Andreas Appolodorus: come back here
Polytropos : ... hnh.
Polytropos : This way goes back up?
Andreas Appolodorus: Aias is like a walking carpet. Lucky it's not raining.
Telemachus : was there another route?
Damian : Might lead to a different art of the complex.
Eleni : Maybe in that large cavern.
Polytropos : More rocky paths.
Polytropos : Up to you if we go that way, or... clear that rat-filled room back there.
Telemachus : clear the cavern first I say..
Eleni : Did anyone get a good look at the edges of that place?
Polytropos : I'm a warrior, not an architect.
Eleni : It's a cavern.
Eleni : What does architecture have to do with it?
Damian : *loud whisper* Leo! We're going back down.
Andreas Appolodorus: It's dark.
Eleni : ...quite a large beast, whatever this was.
Polytropos : *kicks at a rat.*
Eleni : Reminds me of the Eater.

Telemachus : beastmen!

Damian : Pol, leave the rats alone.
Eleni : Shall I?
Andreas Appolodorus: wait for Leo.
Damian : After you.
Eleni : TRap!
Eleni : A temple beneath the temple...
Eleni : *Inspects the statue*
Polytropos : Smeone's been ruining a lot of statues here.
Leonidas : other cavern's a lizardman's lair
Eleni : Hm...
Eleni : Intentionally, it seems.
Leonidas : unfriendly looking ones
Andreas Appolodorus: Sculptor is a noble profession.
Andreas Appolodorus: A shrine.
Damian : *gathers up sling stones*
Leonidas : *looks around*
Eleni : *Inspects the later and other bits, trying to figure out who or what this shrine was dedicated to*
Eleni : *altar
Andreas Appolodorus: Is it for that Tan Athos God?

Lazyzeus : As soon as Leo steps up onto the inscription, he vanishes in a flash of blue light!

Eleni : Maybe, but it seems to have been de-
Leonidas : hmm
Eleni : ...Leo
Eleni : Leo!
Andreas Appolodorus: Leo!
Damian : What happened?
Eleni : He was.. .standing right there. On the dais.
Damian : Figures.
Eleni : And then there was a flash and he just... vanished.
Telemachus : ... did you just sacrifice Leo?!
Polytropos : Magic!
Eleni : I don't /think/ so!
Andreas Appolodorus: I'll go after him.
Damian : Woudln't be much of one.
Eleni : Perhaps it was a portal, like in the Labyrinth.
Polytropos : Did he just sacrifive himself?

Leonidas : *examines*

Telemachus : maybe he just got sent somewhere nearby
Polytropos : Or to another world!
Andreas Appolodorus: Do some magic then.
Eleni : Straight into a city of beastmen?
Telemachus : Shh... there are more beastmen just around the corner..
Damian : He always wanted to see the world...
Eleni : *Checks the circle's runes, trying to identify anything familiar...*
Andreas Appolodorus: He stepped there?
Eleni : Yes...
Eleni : It's definitely a teleport circle.
Telemachus : Well if he could just step back..
Telemachus : he probably would have.
Damian : Any idea where it leads?
Eleni : But it's also probably one-way only.
Eleni : Well... no.
Andreas Appolodorus: So? What is the lesser of two evil?
Damian : Better the evil you know than the one you don't.
Eleni : But we know neither.
Andreas Appolodorus: what if it was you there?
Polytropos : Well, we can't leave him alone.
Eleni : Unless the evil you're refering to is Leo.
Andreas Appolodorus: Are we heroes or not?
Damian : Leo's an underachiving kind of evil.
Eleni : Hey! You nearly bumped me in!

Eidothera: *hides*
Leonidas : *watches*
Eidothera: *peeks out from behind the tree than jumps back when she sees you looking*


Andreas Appolodorus: I'm going in.
Eleni : *Sighs* Well, no choice, then...
Polytropos : ... that kind of decides it. Charge!
Telemachus : *shrugs*
Eleni : Altogether, now.
Damian : *looks at Aias and shrugs*
Telemachus : huh..
Eleni : Are we...
Eleni : *Looks up*
Telemachus : This I was not expecting..
Damian : This is different.
Andreas Appolodorus: How did get here before me?

Leonidas : *smiles*
Leonidas : *waves*
Leonidas : Hi there
Eidothera: *looks out again, timidly*
Leonidas : I won't hurt you; I'm lost.
Eidothera: *Tentatively smiles*
Leonidas : Can you tell me where I am?
Eidothera: *on hearing the approach of the others, runs off*

Polytropos : Leo?
Leonidas : *sighs*
Polytropos : Ah! You're alright.
Leonidas : careful about going to far west
Leonidas : there are beastmen that way
Eleni : Try not to leap into magic circles the first chance you get, in the future.
Polytropos : Where are we?
Telemachus : Is this the portal to their home?
Damian : *looks around, squinting*
Leonidas : Not sure.
Damian : Ah, there you are.
Andreas Appolodorus: Some kind of forest.
Leonidas : I met a dryad but she ran off when she heard you all approaching
Eleni : We are ever so sorry for interupting your tryst.
Damian : A dryad? Hmm. I wish she would have stuck around, I may have been able to talk to her.
Polytropos : A what now?
Telemachus : What do we do, try going back?
Leonidas : there's a thorn wall to the west edge of the forest and beastmen guarding at least parts of it.
Eleni : I'm not sure if we can...
Eleni : Not from here, anyway.
Damian : Might be a good place to start.
Leonidas : portal's one way as far as I can tell.
Telemachus : or do we launch an assult on the beastman homelands?

Lazyzeus : Having found an unexpected forest in your search for the Immortal King, you gather to decide what to do next...

[Karvon]

Lazyzeus : You're not sure if it's indoors or outside, or even if you are in your same world. But you do know that a strong beastman outpost is nearby. You reunite with Leonidas, who encountered a woodland creature...

Polytropos : Sssh...
Polytropos : *tilts his head, listening*
Eleni : *Raises brow*
Polytropos : *nods, advancing sneakily.*
Kataramene : *stomp stomp* Got to be another of those bloody women here somewhere.
Leonidas : I'd suggest seeing if that dryad might prove helpful.
Kataramene : There!
Andreas Appolodorus: Dryad you said.
Eleni : She sounded a bit shy of crowds.

Kataramene : *thumps on the tree* Come on out!
Polytropos : I hear someone, but it doesn't sound like a dryad...
Eleni : ...what's that thumping?
Kataramene : So help me, I'm going to ..... who's there?
Leonidas : hmm
Telemachus : Kat?
Eleni : ...Katara?
Polytropos : Oh!
Leonidas : hardly a dryad
Eleni : How and when did you get here! And did your turn into a Dryad at some point?
Telemachus : How'd you get here? and why are you hitting that tree?
Kataramene : Oh it's /you/ is it. *glare*
Eleni : ...yes?
Polytropos : Um... yes.
Polytropos : Most of us.
Leonidas : *looks around*
Kataramene : I was /trying/ to find you, not that you care, and stepped into some ... one of those portal things.
Eleni : Hm. So there's more. Did yours close behind you as well?
Polytropos : It's, um, quite twisty turny.
Kataramene : Since then I've been chasing these wood wom.... what? Of course or I'd have gone back!
Polytropos : That's logic, yup.
Leonidas : *watches*
Kataramene : *glares*
Eleni : *Shrugs* Well, I don't know. Maybe you liked it here.
Kataramene : One just went in there.
Eleni : Did she wrong you in some way?
Eleni : Her or her tree?
Kataramene : *thumps the tree again*
Kataramene : They left food, but won't hang around to tell me how to get out.
Polytropos : Well, uh... there's lots of beast men nearby, so...
Eleni : Maybe they don't know.
Kataramene : I haven't seen any of them.
Polytropos : *points west*
Kataramene : *half hearted kick of the tree*
Eleni : Sounds like you've been lucky.
Polytropos : It's good that we found you again, though!
Kataramene : *glare*
Eleni : We came through a whole /lot/ of nasty things to get here...

Dog Brother Warrior : *yells* The rest of you, stay on guard here!

Kataramene : Well /some/ people would have stopped to .....
Eleni : Tel and I might have sort of sold our souls.
Eleni : *Looks up*
Kataramene : What's that?
Polytropos : Uhoh.
Eleni : I don't know.... haven't heard them speak something intelligible before, I don't think.
Leonidas : slow dow n
Leonidas : *shakes head*
Eleni : *Sticks behind tree*
Kataramene : *ducks behind a tree*
Kataramene : Dogs?
Telemachus : *mutter* I didn't sell anything that was Pol.
Andreas Appolodorus: * hide behind a tree *
Leonidas : about 8-10 beastmen ahead, a patrol just came in from the direction of the portal.
Eleni : After u -
Leonidas : there's some half human dog guy seems to be giving orders who went off to the west after.

Leonidas : Right
Polytropos : Dammit.
Kataramene : Blast.
Telemachus : too quick
Polytropos : Where'd he go?
Eleni : I didn't see him!
Kataramene : *points west*
Leonidas : So much for the scouting and planning phase.
Polytropos : We were seen, it happens. They're sharp, these beasts.
Eleni : Some sort of structure up ahead.
Eleni : Seen, or... smelled.
Polytropos : ... wow.
Kataramene : Stay together.
Telemachus : something moving up there..

Lazyzeus : *creatures descend from above*

Kataramene : Get off!
Kataramene : Bitch!
Polytropos : Ow my ears.
Eleni : Harpies as well, now...?
Kataramene : Ooo.. don't you look nice.
Eleni : They must have been lookouts... hm.
Kataramene : Ugh, my head!
Eleni : Oh, do calm yourself.

Polytropos : Do we go in?
Polytropos : This wall is massive!
Kataramene : Is that structure anything?
Leonidas : *looks around*
Kataramene : *gestures to the one behind*
Telemachus : We're getting seperated..
Polytropos : Compared to this, it's nothing.
Kataramene : Tell me about it!
Eleni : True...
Eleni : Nothing even remotely like it in Argos.
Eleni : Or like that.
Polytropos : There's a... giant salamander in there.
Eleni : I wonder if it's a pet.
Leonidas : *examines*
Kataramene : Let it stay in there.
Polytropos : It's probably safe where it is, yeah.
Telemachus : Well if damian haddn't wondered off maybe he could chat to it

Kataramene : I thought someone was missing.
Polytropos : Very true, very true...
Eleni : Just when you need him the most, of course.
Leonidas : *looks around*
Eleni : So do we go charging into the enemy fortress?
Kataramene : *snorts* You leave everyone behind.
Telemachus : He took the heavy suit of armour we found with him too. Kat might have liked that.
Eleni : You /stayed'/ behind! We didn't leave anyone.
Leonidas : *examines*
Kataramene : I had a thorn in my foot!
Polytropos : ppssst. You can come in.
Kataramene : And why is Leo wearing a dress?
Leonidas : *examines*
Eleni : It's one of the death-priest's robes.
Kataramene : The what now?
Polytropos : Ah. Hail Zeus!
Eleni : Fairly comfortable, apparently. And this...
Telemachus : The cultists had a lot of stuff.
Eleni : Is a throne room.
Leonidas : No traps or locks.
Telemachus : *had*
Polytropos : A throne room for Zeus.
Eleni : Huh.
Eleni : Not what I expected to find.
Kataramene : *pulls out a coin and makes a quick prayer*
Leonidas : beastmen must have been brought here by that immortal king guy.
Eleni : But where is 'here'?
Polytropos : Someone here must know about that.
Leonidas : *shrugs*
Eleni : *To Kat* We met some friendly lizards, among other things.

The Immortal King : Welcome, little mortals.
Andreas Appolodorus: * Prays to Zeus *
Eleni : They told us some Immortal King person was...
The Immortal King : *laughs*
Eleni : ...oh.
Kataramene : This was walk on two.... oh.
The Immortal King : *laughs maniacally*
Eleni : That would be him, I suppose.
Polytropos : ... not seeing anyone...
Leonidas : north door leads to a throne room
Kataramene : Laughter like that can't be a good sign.
Polytropos : Oh.
Polytropos : Must... must be where it's coming from.
Leonidas : *glances back*
Kataramene : There's a light up there.

The Immortal King : *a loud shout echoes through the complex* Warriors, enemies are within the citadel! Attack!
Eleni : Well, lovely.
Telemachus : great.
Leonidas : I think we'd better move quickly
Kataramene : This one of the lizards?
Eleni : Well, yes.
Eleni : But this one wasn't so-
Eleni : *Slips*
Polytropos : WHAT THE -
The Immortal King : YOU WILL PERISH!
Kataramene : What is that?!
The Immortal King : Those are but tools that you strike down.
The Immortal King : Weak! You are weak!
Kataramene : Run!
The Immortal King : You think you can stand before a god?
The Immortal King : *grabs Eleni, throws her across the room*
Eleni : *Crawls away*
Telemachus : RUN FOR IT
Telemachus : RETREAT
Kataramene : OPut
The Immortal King : You cannot hide!
Telemachus : GO
Polytropos : Oough.
The Immortal King : I see all!
Kataramene : Run!
The Immortal King : *laughs madly*
Telemachus : loose him in the woods!
Polytropos : What was that?
Kataramene : Andreas....
The Immortal King : *lets out a high scream* So shall be the fate of your world!
Polytropos : ANDREAS, GET OUT OF THERE!
The Immortal King : Your people shall be my slaves!
Polytropos : How do we fight that?

Lazyzeus : The creature's threats and screams follow you into the forest, but the monster does not come after you, at least not immediately.

Eleni : *Catches her breath*
Eleni : ...cleverly.
Kataramene : It was hurt a bit.
Eleni : And for now, that means retreating.
Telemachus : Well first off we need our damned hjealer
Leonidas : not very much
Kataramene : But I think it was Eleni's magic.
Polytropos : Some of our arrows pinked him.
Leonidas : an occasional magical arrow scratched him
Kataramene : Let's get further away.
Leonidas : most bounced off
Andreas Appolodorus: Mighty beast.
Eleni : Spells did not do much good, however..
Kataramene : Do the dryad's know anything? Did you speak to them?
Telemachus : We killed his leiutenents and a load of his men though.
Polytropos : I've not seen one yet, even.
Eleni : We don't know! The only one we saw ran away.
Eleni : Well, the only one Leo saw.
Kataramene : One went into that tree.
Leonidas : need to find a place to camp
Polytropos : And from the beating yoiu gave it, I don't think it's coming out.
Kataramene : I didn't hit it, just the ... oh right.
Kataramene : *glares back towards the tower*

Leonidas : *mutters*
Leonidas : Guess there's no camping here
Kataramene : Which one was that tree again?
Eleni : This canyon seems quite.... sealed.
Eleni : *Seats self on boulder*
Kataramene : *sighs deeply, staring at the tree*
Andreas Appolodorus: Is this safe?
Kataramene : Will they come out if we ask them nicely?
Leonidas : *sits and reorganizes his pack*
Polytropos : Can't find a way out, no. It looks like it might be us, or him.
Andreas Appolodorus: Did anything we have harm him?
Polytropos : Magic arrows...
Eleni : He had a few scratches... and..

Kataramene : Dammit.
Eleni : I suppose this answers our previous question.
Eleni : Is there /any/ path besides the portal?
Kataramene : We have to go further.
Polytropos : Not that I could find. I, uh, I might recommend, going up and holding that hill with the well on it.
Polytropos : Seemed to be the only way through the thorn wall.
Eleni : To what end?
Polytropos : Well, we'll see them coming.
Telemachus : We could threaten to cut that bloody dryads tree down unless she helps us.
Polytropos : They'll only come from one way...
Kataramene : We need to know more about that tall one.
Eleni : That will be of great comfort when we die.
Telemachus : Anyone good with traps?
Leonidas : yeah
Polytropos : I do a bit of trapping, yeah.
Telemachus : want to set some near the hill?
Polytropos : Good call.
Eleni : I'm going to have a closer look at the portal..
Telemachus : a lot of the beast men carry them, I've got a couple
Telemachus : If you need them
Polytropos : Bring 'em along!

Kataramene : Come on out, please? We won't hurt you.
Eleni : Perhaps I can figure something out.
Polytropos : Ok, Eleni!
Kataramene : You were giving me food so you can't /want/ us dead.
Leonidas : think we'd bettter save them for more dangerous foes.
Eleni : *Studies the 'entrance', hoping desperately to find a way to turn the thing into an exit. To anywhere, really.*
Kataramene : *sighs* Can anyone else talk to them? One of the men maybe? They're dryad's after all.
Leonidas : So when did you take up singing?
Leonidas : *laughs*
Kataramene : I thought it might sound better if I was.
Eleni : *Sighs*
Leonidas : perhaps putting your weapons away would make you appear less threatening?
Telemachus : Maybe we should check the enclosure with the lizard..
Kataramene : I don't think they are going to talk to /me/ at all.
Telemachus : there was a tree in there, that migth be what was being protected
Kataramene : May as well.
Eleni : Well, the way we came is definitely one-way....
Polytropos : *waits in shadow, bow ready.*
Eleni : But there has to be some other portal around here somewhere. And there's only one place that could be.
Telemachus : I'm building a really interesting weapon collection though, so that's a bright side..
Kataramene : There's a woodman's axe on the hill.
Leonidas : There was sort of a bright light like a portal in the fortress.

Dog Brother Warrior : There!
Eleni : Then our suffering has been worth it all.
Telemachus : It's rusted to crap, but bring it if you.. damn..
Dog Brother Warrior : Go get him!
Leonidas : at the end of the hall with the barracks
Telemachus : Let em run into the..
Kataramene : Something has been cutting the trees down.
Polytropos : *the bodies of two new berastmen already litter the hill.*

Eleni : Oh.
Polytropos : Heh, look at 'em go!
Eleni : That works.
Kataramene : Look, can we try and persuade them out?
Polytropos : They don't like traps and arrows.
Eleni : ...for a little while longer
Polytropos : This is our wall now. Anwyay, any luck?
Eleni : Not really. The only way out is in there.
Telemachus : We're going to have a look inside the lizard pen.
Kataramene : Can someone with good eyesight in the dark come and look at this?
Eleni : Unless the Dryads have some interesting secrets.
Telemachus : I've got a light..
Kataramene : Well they might be able to tell us what the sodding dogs have been doing?
Telemachus : come on, before they send more
Polytropos : We've got you covered, Tel. Let's do one thing at a time, yes?
Eleni : Come on /what/?
Telemachus : .. might have to figfht that..
Kataramene : If the dogs have cut down trees then they might help us?
Leonidas : *peers down well*
Telemachus : Hey there's someone in here!
Telemachus : We're not with the beastmen!
Polytropos : Patience, Kat. One thing at a time.
Eleni : ...someone? What, besides the giant lizard?
Polytropos : Thanks.
Telemachus : I'M NOT TALKING ABOUT THE SODDING LIZARD
Eleni : Don't yell at me!
Telemachus : Hey? who are you? are you a prisoner?
Andreas Appolodorus: Strange.
Eleni : Who are you talking to...?
Telemachus : There was a womans voice, she told me to go away. Maybe it's another dyrad, or some prisoner..
Kataramene : *bats Pol with the flat of her sword*
Eleni : Hm.
Eleni : Maybe they built a wall around her tree..
Polytropos : This isn't bad, for a place to hold a last stand, eh?
Eleni : Oh, don't go falling on your own sword yet, Pol!
Kataramene : I'm not ready for a last stand yet.
Polytropos : Yeah, yeah, I'm just saying...
Telemachus : What do we do, should we force our way in?
Kataramene : *bats with the sword again and sniffs*
Leonidas : she not talking to you?
Telemachus : I don't like the look of the lizard
Eleni : I suppose we don't have a whole lot to lose at this point.
Telemachus : Not after "go away"
Telemachus : *cranes head trying to see more inside*
Telemachus : There she is, I see her!
Leonidas : well if she doesn't want to talk, forcing our way in isn't the best idea.
Telemachus : Look someone else talk to her, I'm not exactly friendly looking..
Polytropos : Do you think the dryads or the beasts grew these walls?
Leonidas : *smiles and peers in*
Eleni : *Sighs*
Leonidas : Excuse me miss?
Eleni : I don't think /that'S/ much of an improvement...
Kataramene : I don't know, maybe they have partly fenced them in?
Leonidas : We don't mean you or your lizard friend any harm.
Polytropos : Or it's to keep the beasts out.
Kore: You'd better go away! More of those beastmen will come, there's always more.
Leonidas : We are simply seeking a way out this place.
Kataramene : It could be. I don't think the dryads meant us harm, or they wouldn't have left me food. They just wouldn't talk to me.
Eleni : We can't go away. There's nowhere for us to go.
Polytropos : Well... you can be... loud...
Kataramene : *glare*
Polytropos : And hitty.
Kore: Well then, you're trapped here, like me.
Kataramene : *bats him with the sword again*
Polytropos : Notthatthere'sanythiongwrongwiththat, but it might upset them...
Leonidas : Hmm perhaps we could help each other some how?
Kore: But I don't think that the demon will let you stay here.
Kataramene : I was annoyed!
Leonidas : Is there anything we can do to help you?
Kataramene : You all just walked off, and didn't stop, and then /they/ wouldn't stop to tell me if they'd seen you.
Kore: They cut down our trees if we do anything.
Eleni : Pretty solid leverage....
Kore: They put walls around me, I can't even see the forest any more.
Leonidas : Ah that's terrible.
Polytropos : Sorry... we were, uh...
Polytropos : You know. Distracted. Lots of people fighting us, strange magic...
Kataramene : *glare, bat - harder*
Kore: You don't have much time. More will come soon. There are always more. First the men came, men like you. Then the demon. He brought the beastmen, and the lizards, and the dog brothers.
Polytropos : *rubs his arm, reproachfully.*
Leonidas : Would you want us to clear this thornwall so you can leave this enclosure as you wish, or not?
Leonidas : What sort of men were those?
Telemachus : ... better still let us come in and hide..
Kore: It doesn't matter. They will come, and they will kill you, and I can do nothing.
Eleni : *Shakes her head* The cultists.
Kore: They were dressed like him. *points at Leonidas*
Leonidas : Oh...
Leonidas : I got this off an earlier enemy we killed, a handy disguise I thought at the time.
Kore: If I hide you, they'll cut down my tree.
Leonidas : Understandable.
Kore: Why don't you just go to the portal, and go away?
Leonidas : Why have they let you remain here?
Leonidas : the portal seems to be just one way.
Eleni : What portal? The one we came through won't open from this side.
Leonidas : Unless you know of another one.
Kore: We keep the magic of the forest alive.
Leonidas : Ah, I see.
Kore: There is one inside the palace as well.
Eleni : Do you know where, exactly....?
Leonidas : Right, I think I saw that oen earlier.
Kore: I think they're afraid if they cut down all the trees the portals will stop working.
Telemachus : The palace full of beastmen and their somewhat-unkillable leader?
Kataramene : *watching the large walls as it gets light*
Kore: I am not sure. I cannot leave the forest.
Leonidas : well, thanks for your help. Maybe we can do something to rid your forest of these invaders.
Eleni : We can always run real fast, Tel.
Kore: I will try to make flowers grow on your graves.
Kore: Unless the demon eats your souls, then I can do nothing.
Eleni : Um... that's very thoughtful of you.
Telemachus : I can, most of you are pretty slow.

Leonidas : Well...
Polytropos : I think we might've frightened them off.
Leonidas : doesn't sound so good.
Polytropos : Heh! We're besieging them.
Kataramene : Or he's having to make more or something.
Polytropos : We're a siege force!
Leonidas : I think I saw a portal at the end of the south hall.
Kore: He's doing something now. *looks west*
Eleni : No, we're not.
Telemachus : Right, south hall you say?
Kataramene : Doesn't beseiging need a plentiful food supply and a place to withdraw to?
Eleni : It's not a siege if the besieged has a way out and the besieger doesn't.
Polytropos : You ruin everything.
Eleni : Actually, we might be the ones under siege, if you look at it that way...
Leonidas : There was a bright light shining in a big chamber there. You all turned around when the demon and his troops came from the north.
Eleni : I saw it, but I'm not sure it was a portal....
Kataramene : There was a light the way we were going too.
Eleni : We can make a run for it, I suppose.
Polytropos : Well, yeah. They were pretty attention-grabbing.
Kataramene : I could just see it at the end of the corridor when they hit us.
Leonidas : Of course that doesn't resolve the problem of the demon.
Kataramene : You think it's a demon?
Eleni : That would be where the running comes in.
Kore : Hey!
Eleni : A more permanent solution will have to a wait a while.
Leonidas : That's what the dryad described it as.
Kataramene : We can't just run out of the....
Polytropos : We're all pretty bruise3d and battered. They...
Telemachus : Alright, so we charge in, charge past the big one and any of his minions, and then straight through the portal?
Eleni : ....?
Kataramene : Who's that?
Eleni : The dryad.
Telemachus : uhm no..
Andreas Appolodorus: He seemed quite confident we could not defeat him.
Telemachus : what's he doing?
Polytropos : Oh, there's a dryad?
Eleni : Do pay attention!
Leonidas : *shrugs*
Telemachus : ooh. more minions?
Kataramene : You didn't say it was a dryad.
Eleni : Which one? To bring more soldiers through?
Telemachus : thanks..
Telemachus : we should run now...
Telemachus : maybe he'll be busy..
Kore: Every time he opens the gateway it's bad. Very bad.
Kore: I'm going to go hide now.
Eleni : Maybe. And there will probably be too many of them if we wait...
Eleni : Our hand is forced.
Polytropos : Aright then. Here's to using everything we've got left.
Kataramene : Forced to run out the portal?
Leonidas : To do what exactly?
Eleni : Well, yes.
Telemachus : Run for the portal
Polytropos : Might be that light you mentioned.
Telemachus : before Gods knows what show up
Kataramene : What did she say would turn up?
Eleni : She wasn't very clear.
Telemachus : something unnatural?
Eleni : Just that it would not be pleasant.
Kataramene : More unnatural than a 12 foot tall dog on two legs?
Eleni : Possibly.

Polytropos : Sssh...
Eleni : The light was over here, no...?
Kataramene : Yes, but it's gone.
Telemachus : there;s a map..
Eleni : *Inspects the circle, carefully*
Kataramene : I saw that, then we had to run.#
Telemachus : *grabs the map*
Telemachus : there's a human here.
Telemachus : hey you, where's the way out?
Eleni : ...this used to be somebody.
Human Slave: Itubu jabba!
Human Slave: Jabba, jabba!
Eleni : *Rubs forehead* Do they... is that how they open it?
Telemachus : right..
Polytropos : ... urk.
Eleni : A sacrifice?
Kataramene : I don't think he's much use, should we leave him?
Telemachus : if you can convince him to come along, try
Leonidas : this was where I saw the light
Eleni : Who?
Telemachus : slave
Telemachus : talks gibberish
Eleni : Back there...? He's... probably meant to be next.
Kataramene : ...
Kataramene : Can you see a way out?
Telemachus : I dunno it looked like the kitchen..
Eleni : No..
Andreas Appolodorus: Did this floor burn?
Polytropos : These are barracks.
Leonidas : more beastmen at the end of the hall in a big chamber
Kataramene : Scorch marks, leading that way.

Polytropos : ... guh.
Dog Brother Warrior : Attack! For the Immortal King!
Telemachus : that's a portal!
Telemachus : go through!
Polytropos : Are you sure?
Eleni : IT looks just like the one at the temple, yes.
Telemachus : saw a dog come through it
Polytropos : Isn't that where they all come from, or...?
Eleni : ...I suppose it can't be worse than staying here.
Eleni : Probably.
Kataramene : We go through it?
Polytropos : Uh, besides this, there's... a room back there, with their women in it.
Eleni : The only other way is towards the throne room, no?
Leonidas : there's a portal here I think
Eleni : ...no reason not to leave them alone.
Telemachus : We've been over that..
Kataramene : Which is not good. Let's hope this isn't worse.
Leonidas : shall we?
Kataramene : Not sure we have a choice.
Eleni : Well... I suppose. They'll be striking the alarm soon if they haven't already.
Telemachus : All at once
Kataramene : *steps*

Polytropos : ... huh
Eleni : Ha...
Telemachus : Oh thank the gods.. this looks like the caverns back home..
Kataramene : Oh great.
Eleni : Right back where we started.
Kataramene : It is?
Leonidas : well we know how to get there and back at least.
Telemachus : still beastmen aroudn though
Eleni : Yes. We descended from..
Leonidas : Look out for the trap!
Kataramene : Eleni?
Polytropos : I, uh, I think she exploded herself.
Telemachus : she paniced and dropped a fireball on us..
Polytropos : Eleni? *poke poke*
Kataramene : I felt it.
Telemachus : Try and help her, maybe it's not too late...
Kataramene : I already tried.
Kataramene : We need to get her out of here.
Polytropos : ... where's the shade of Thanatos, then?
Telemachus : Don't speak it's name, it might show up!
Kataramene : Where is Andreas too?
Telemachus : *slings Eleni over his back*

Avatar of Death : *a silent figure appears and moves toward the fallen woman*
Kataramene : Whoo?
Polytropos : Aw no.
Polytropos : Back off!
Telemachus : HEY GET LOST
Polytropos : Shoo!
Avatar of Death: *its claws pass through you as it reaches for her body*
Kataramene : *stands between it and Eleni?*
Polytropos : *hack bash*
Avatar of Death: *her dead body jerks as it plunges its claws into her*
Telemachus : *drag Eleni's body away*

Polytropos : Aw no!
Kataramene : No!
Telemachus : what did it do?
Polytropos : You dead bastard!
Andreas Appolodorus: Are we in Hades?
Kataramene : Where's it taken her?
Leonidas : *shrugs*
Polytropos : It - it's a long story. She sort of used an oracle and the price was that the shade of Thanatos would show up personally to take her to Hades.
Kataramene : .... what did she do that for?
Polytropos : Well, we didn;t KNOW that was the price.
Lazyzeus : The body remains.
Telemachus : Look maybe we can still get her back.
Kataramene : Where was this oracle?
Andreas Appolodorus: How we get hyer back?
Polytropos : Back in the worked-stone bit of this place.
Telemachus : hidden in part of the temple
Kataramene : Well we're going to go and give it a talking to.#
Telemachus : well, we get to a really good priest maybe..
Polytropos : It was a floating magic skull.
Kataramene : She /can't/ go yet if there's this much trouble about.
Polytropos : It didn't seem that talkative..
Polytropos : I... I guess we can ask if there's a way to return her, but...
Telemachus : It answers yes or no questions then claims you for thanatos
Telemachus : you probably dont want to question it...
Polytropos : What about that guy that ran away?
Telemachus : It wont tell us *how*
Kataramene : Well we can't just do nothing.
Telemachus : so it's usless.
Polytropos : He was a powerful priest, right?
Telemachus : He *might* be useful.
Polytropos : We could try and find him.
Telemachus : if we can make the bastard cooperate.
Kataramene : Where did you see him?
Polytropos : He looked like the kind of man into deals.
Andreas Appolodorus: The skull said we can kill the King. But we do not know how.
Polytropos : He led us to the oracle, then ran off when we figured out what his game was.
Kataramene : Right, then we need to go have a look for him.
Telemachus : Look, everything's dead down here, we should probably rest up before we try anything else..
Kataramene : Shouldn't stay here anyway in case they send more dogs.
Polytropos : Let's get back up to the higher level, then. That's where we can find some safety.
Leonidas : chambers beyond just barracks
Kataramene : Was it this way?
Polytropos : Past that statue, yeah.
Polytropos : ... ow.
Kataramene : They might have defaced that statue.... what now?
Andreas Appolodorus: Pfff
Telemachus : This way was the way up..

Lazyzeus : As you are heading back up, you hear something. It sounds like the tread of booted feet, of many men--or things--marching.By the sound, you guess hundreds, at least. Coming from the corridor you just traversed behind you.

Polytropos : I hear something.
Eleni : *Being very phantom-like, probably*
Kataramene : Me too, marching feet?
Telemachus : where's it coming from?
Polytropos : Aw fates.
Kataramene : Umm... should we hide?
Telemachus : run, then hide..
Polytropos : Here!
Polytropos : The secret door!
Telemachus : open it!

Lazyzeus : *clomp clomp clomp*

Telemachus : openiopenit
Telemachus : closeitcloseit
Polytropos : *closes it, when folks are through.*
Telemachus : Hey!!
Kataramene : *low* Handy.

Lazyzeus : You close the door, just in time. You can hear the march of a small beastman army passing by. You see the priest, with a ghostly figure hovering above the altar in front of him.

Polytropos : Sorry, Thrace, you'll have to endure one more army.
Macreus: We meet again.
Andreas Appolodorus: What the?
Polytropos : Alright, Sleepy. Give uszzzz
Telemachus : Godsdamnit
Kataramene : ...
Telemachus : *puts Eleni's body down*
Kataramene : *not too gentle kick at Pol* Wake up.
Andreas Appolodorus: * wave *
Polytropos : Mrgh.
Macreus: As I was saying.
Macreus: It appears you had a bit of ... misfortune.
Kataramene : Is this the one?
Polytropos : This is the one.
Macreus: Let us dispense with the inevitable threats.
Polytropos : Fine. We want our friend back.
Macreus: By now it must be clear to you that we face a common enemy.
Kataramene : Go on.
Polytropos : It's pretty uncommon, as enemies go.
Andreas Appolodorus: Ah?
Macreus: I have not been idle since our... separation.
Kataramene : Since you ran off, they said.
Macreus: I am guessing that perhaps you confronted the Immortal King? Thus your comrade's detachment of her soul from her body?
Macreus: A tactical retreat, rather. The situation had suddenly become less... hospitable.
Kataramene : In a round about way, yes.
Andreas Appolodorus: So your skull lied?
Macreus: The Oracle speaks truth.
Telemachus : We *did* manage to hurt it
Telemachus : just not enough.
Kataramene : There was something about knowing how to beat that damn dog.
Macreus: The Immortal King is a demon, but it is also a lich. Its soul does not reside in its body.
Andreas Appolodorus: Somthing isn't immortal if it can be killed.
Macreus: This I did not know when we spoke. But I have communed with Thanatos, and Death knows all.
Kataramene : Where /is/ it's soul then?
Polytropos : *looking a bit lost at all these technical terms.*
Macreus: That I do not know. But typically, such creatures bind their souls to a device. A gem, or a magical item of great power.
Telemachus : It's hiding its soul? Oh come on that's just cheating...
Kataramene : You're not lying there.
Kataramene : I don't suppose Thanatos is going to be too happy at people who do that, though, right?
Macreus: I suspect it is here... or rather, in the palace complex below the caverns.
Macreus: It is clear to me that my brethren foolishly awakened the creature, or summoned it, I do not know. Their souls are... beyond interrogation.
Macreus: I will point out that it was persecution by your allies, the Thracians, that drove them to this course.
Telemachus : *shrug* the Thracians said the cultists started it.
Macreus: I did hear the passage of the King's latest army, so perhaps they are paying the price for that prejudice.
Macreus: It is common for small-minded folk to fear that which they do not understand.
Polytropos : Well, we're from Argos, so don't guilt-trip us.
Kataramene : Whatever. While you're going on like this more are probably coming. Let's play the blame game when we've time.
Macreus: In any case, I was not there when it happened. And it seems that you slaughtered everyone who might have had information about the facts.
Macreus: You were quite thorough in cleaning out my brothers from the complex.
Polytropos : ... well, sorry.
Polytropos : They were doing bad things!
Kataramene : *looks at the others*
Macreus: What is done is done. They are with the True God now.
Leonidas : We just helped them reach their final reward.
Telemachus : They weren't big on talking
Macreus: As for me, I will say that I do not wish to see a lich-demon gain control over this region.
Kataramene : I've no idea what you're talking about, can we get to the part where you help us against a common enemy then?
Macreus: Well now, that depends on you.
Macreus: You already know that I cannot be trusted, but then again, there are five of you pointing weapons...excuse me, four weapons and a fist--at me.
Macreus: Therefore, I require some... assurance.
Kataramene : Have I run you through yet?
Polytropos : Bah!
Macreus: No, but then again, I have something you need. Desperately.
Polytropos : We're Greeks of our word.
Kataramene : Then that /should/ be pretty reassuring.
Macreus: Ah, but what happens if--when--I restore your lost soul to its home?
Telemachus : We didn't start cutting you up, even after what you pulled the last time we met. I think we're proving pretty gods damned reasonable here!
Kataramene : We count it as you paying her back for tricking her into this.
Telemachus : Yeah I'd count that even, and us not Oweing you a stabbing.
Kataramene : And /then/ we can talk about this "enemy of my enemy" thing.
Polytropos : *nods, looking fierce.*
Macreus: I will return your comrade's soul to you, if you swear on the gods you hold sacred that you shall hold a truce between us until the Immortal King is forever destroyed.
Macreus: I make the same oath on Thanatos.
Kataramene : *looks at the others* I can live with that.
Macreus: And you others?
Leonidas : Fine by me.
Macreus: Swear it.
Kataramene : All right. *sigh*
Telemachus : As long as you swear the same
Polytropos : *mutter mumble oath.*
Leonidas : By us you mean just us or also the states we are working for?
Telemachus : no back-stabbing on your end either.
Andreas Appolodorus: I sware it.
Telemachus : I swear.
Macreus: I swear on the Eternal Undying Death, on the power of Thanatos, the True God, that I shall hold truce with you Argosians until which time as the Immortal King is forever removed from this world.
Kataramene : I swear at the feet of the gods that we will remain in a truce until such time as the Immortal King is dead, and all that.
Kataramene : Can we get on with it now?
Macreus: Do speak up, boy. *to Polytropos*
Andreas Appolodorus: Pol!
Polytropos : ... fine, fine, I swear not to do the things you said we shouldn't.
Macreus: *to Leonidas* I ask only that you speak for yourself.
Polytropos : *mutter mumble.*
Macreus: You should be a politician, boy.
Macreus: Very well. I will let the Erinyes sort things out if either side breaks their oath.

Macreus: *takes out a scroll and reads it*
Polytropos : *wince*
Macreus: Do not be alarmed, I need to make some preparations.
Polytropos : Guh!
Andreas Appolodorus: What?
Kataramene : *eyes narrow and holds sword firmly*
Macreus: Shade of Death, I ask that you guide this spirit back its place.
Macreus: Death claims all! But let it hold its hand in abeyance at my bidding!
Kataramene : Did he do that before?
Macreus: For the greater... *smirks* Good.
Macreus: Now, spirit, I command you!
Macreus: Return!
Leonidas : *watches*

Eleni : *Awakens with a gasp*
Telemachus : Eleni? is that you?
Polytropos : Eleni!
Eleni : Haaah.. wha...
Kataramene : Is it /really/ you?
Telemachus : *squints*
Andreas Appolodorus: Eleni!
Telemachus : nothing weird in there?
Macreus: Your companion is as she was. Perhaps with more... insight.
Eleni : W..weird..?
Kataramene : That sounds like Eleni.
Eleni : *Blinks, eyes moving towards Marceus* You....
Eleni : ...why? I remember... the shade standing over me...
Macreus: I will let your friends update you. When you are ready, there are plans to be made.

Kataramene : You can't hex him 'til he glows /just/ yet.
Eleni : *Looks down at her hands, trying to will them to stop shaking*
Eleni : How long was I...?
Polytropos : Yay!
Polytropos : About twenty minutes.
Kataramene : Not long. *bends down* You're going to be alright.
Eleni : Oh.... oh...
Eleni : Felt... longer. Somehow.
Kataramene : Or ... at least as alright as the rest of us.
Eleni : R... right... I guess we're in no better shape, huh...?
Kataramene : Another army went marching up to Thrace.
Telemachus : Don't worry, you'll be fine. Just walk it off.
Eleni : ...you didn't have Thanatos' litle messenger urging you on, Tel.
Kataramene : That big dog thing is a ... like I think he said?
Eleni : *Shakes her head*
Polytropos : We did try to tell him to go away, but he wasn't having it.
Telemachus : That thing *was* pretty awful
Kataramene : A lick?
Telemachus : we couldn't kill it
Eleni : You can't kill death.
Telemachus : it's a dead demon. it hides its soul somewhere
Kataramene : That's supposed to be the problem with that dog too, he's hidden his soul away somewhere.
Eleni : I'm sorry, I... I'll be fine.
Kataramene : Or as fine as the rest of us? *half a smile*
Eleni : *Smiles weakly* It's something to aspire to.
Kataramene : You might have to run a bit.
Eleni : But yes... I think I'm familiar with the concept...