conversations: human
conversations:  It's strange how friendships develop.  Less than a week ago, none of the four of you had even met.  A chance meeting on the road between like-minded men of faith, a choice in a run-down tavern, a few days (and towns) on the road together, and a bond is birthed.  Still tenuous, sure.  But a bond nonetheless.
  
  You enter Ilsurian now in late spring.  There is an easy comradery between you and your companions as you walk down the well trodden path from Whistledown, a joking, teasing comradery that only the young and (mildly) foolish can pull off without sounding mean-spirited.
  
  Ilsurian is an orderly town, as towns go.  The buildings and the people seem sturdy.  Permanent.  Like they have withstood the storms, and will again, if called upon.  They are about their evening chores, trying to be finished with the day before darkness falls so they can enjoy a pint at the local watering hole or an evening at home with the children before they get up to do it all again tomorrow.  It seems a peaceful place, like many other towns across Varisia.
  
   
   Spoiler: Knowledge Local or Diplomacy: Ilsurian DC 15 
  lsurian is a trading town in central Varisia, situated on the bank of Lake Syrantula next to the mouth of Skull River.
   
  
   
   Spoiler: Knowledge Local or Diplomacy: Ilsurian DC 20 
   Ilsurian is a trading town in central Varisia, situated on the bank of Lake Syrantula next to the mouth of Skull River. Many of the inhabitants of the town descended from ethnic Chelaxians, and most of them have the strong features, pale skin, and dark hair of that group. Most also harbor prejudice against the native Varisians, and believe the stereotypes that Varisians are thieves and layabouts.
   
  
   
   Spoiler: Knowledge Local or Diplomacy: Ilsurian DC 25 
   Ilsurian is a trading town in central Varisia, situated on the bank of Lake Syrantula next to the mouth of Skull River. Many of the inhabitants of the town descended from ethnic Chelaxians, and most of them have the strong features, pale skin, and dark hair of that group. Most also harbor prejudice against the native Varisians, and believe the stereotypes that Varisians are thieves and layabouts.
  
  The town was named for its founder Ilsur, a Knight of Aroden from the city of Korvosa. With the crumbling of the Chelish Empire, Ilsur wanted a militant-leaning meritocracy to replace noble rule in Korvosa, but had to eventually concede defeat roughly 80 years ago. He marched his troops to the west bank of the Skull River where it empties into Lake Syrantula, and awaited a chance to return and seize Korvosa by military force. He died waiting for the opportunity, and his army gradually transformed into a strong community of independent fishers and foresters.
   
conversations: Kvard51:
conversations: human
conversations:  Todd was amazed as he entered into the town. It was his first time at this place and wondered if it was more than just aesthetics the reason behind its appearance. " I think this place pretty unique in its design choices, dont you think? Where should we go first to? Get some food? Find a place to stay? Go shopping? Our options are endless. " He speaks while rising his hands above his head in excitement and wanderlust.
  
  Equinox wasnt as excited as Todd about the whole thing. Walking through the town meant he would have to remain quiet to avoid attracting the wrong type of atention. He yawns for a bit and then stretches his whole body like a dog.
conversations: DaOldeWolf:
conversations: human
conversations:  Spoiler: ooc 
  diplomacy  (1d20+9)[ 14 ] 
  take 10 on know (local) for 15
  
  .....hold on, so if you don't make the first check then you don't even know where you are? that doesn't make sense.
   
  
  
  Despite it being a major stop on the road, Cris has never really been to Ilsurian before, only passing through briefly on his many trips up and down the lake.   Something about.....hmm.   He racks his brain, but can't remember what his father had told him about the town. Either way, it seems welcoming enough.
  
  Cris finds himself yawning with Equinox as Todd lights up like a firecracker - for all the travelling he's done, he still isn't used to walking so much. Still, with a smile at his fellow's enthusiasm, he suggests:   "Maybe we should find a place to stay first. Then we can all go out and explore without having to worry."  
conversations: theasl:
conversations: human
conversations:  Elyn 
    "... and then the farmer said: That's no donkey!"   Elyn laughs a little too loudly at her own joke as the adventurers make their way into town.
  
   
   Spoiler: OOC 
  Roll first: knowledge (local):  (1d20+3)[ 10 ] 
   
  
  
  Having been raised in a small backwater town with little knowledge of the outside world, Elyn knows very little about Varisia. Nor does she know much about Ilsurian.   "Well, uh... we're here?"   She looks at Cris and nods.   "A place to stay should uh... be our first priority. Anyone know any good inns around here?"  
conversations: BramsesII:
conversations: human
conversations:  Originally Posted by BramsesII 
    Elyn 
    "... and then the farmer said: That's no donkey!"   Elyn laughs a little too loudly at her own joke as the adventurers make their way into town.
  
   
   Spoiler: OOC 
  Roll first: knowledge (local): [roll0]
   
  
  
  Having been raised in a small backwater town with little knowledge of the outside world, Elyn knows very little about Varisia. Nor does she know much about Ilsurian.   "Well, uh... we're here?"   She looks at Cris and nods.   "A place to stay should uh... be our first priority. Anyone know any good inns around here?"   
   
  
  One of the villagers, hearing your last question, points towards the center of town.   "The Two Waters Tavern is just off the village green.  They will have rooms.  And a good meal, if you have coin." 
conversations: Kvard51:
conversations: human
conversations:  Todd nods in agreement to Elyn´s suggestion. It was probably the right idea since they just arrived. He thinks about making a nice gesture for the rest. " Depending on how much it is, I can help cover the expenses for everyone. Hopefully, I will have more enough for the 4 of us. And if not, maybe I can get some extra money performing for the people there. It is really convenient that Equinox doesnt need a place to stay at night. " He finishes teasingly as playfully taunts by sticking his tongue out. Grim shakes his head but smiles back. The two share a couple of thoughts with Equinox and Todd´s laugh turns to sound a bit more nervous.
  
  " Anyway, what do you guys think? Should we head to the Two Waters Tavern? " Todd asks the rest on their opinions.
conversations: DaOldeWolf:
conversations: human
conversations:  Elyn 
  
  Elyn nods.   "Sounds like a uh.. plan."   She rubs the back of her neck.   "I haven't had a good night's sleep since that brawl. He gave me nightmares with his... bugs."   The alchemist shivers involuntarily, remembering all the bugs.   "Oh, and if it's not too uh... expensive, I can pay for my own stay."  
conversations: BramsesII:
conversations: human
conversations:  " Well, then what are we waiting for? Lets go and check it out. " Todd replies to her knowing the rest are most likely as interested in sleeping in a nice place as her. Todd then starts walking to Two Waters Tavern following the directions given by the villagers. Equinox keeps moving forward as he follows Todd around hoping the place isnt far away from their current position.
conversations: DaOldeWolf:
conversations: human
conversations:  "Sure, let's go. And don't worry about the money - I'm sure I can handle my own."   Cris heads out behind Todd.
conversations: theasl:
conversations: human
conversations:  William Sendor  
  
  Despite living relatively close by, Ilsurian was more of mystery to William than he had expected. Looking at the others, he hoped one of them would be able to find their way through the city.
  
  ---
  
  William nods and smiles at Todd's offer.
  
   "Thank you for the offer." 
  
  He hadn't been travelling with these folks for very long, but he felt he could trust them as travelling companions.
  
  Feeling around for his coin pouch, he notices that it is empty.
  
   "I hope to repay your kindness in the future." 
conversations: Feirgon:
conversations: human
conversations:  Entering the Two Waters, you are struck by the size of the crowd.  Apparently this is the happening spot, considering the early hour.  A handsome, middle aged woman is standing at the corner of the bar overlooking the goings on with the satisfied air of ownership.  She turns and smiles as a younger woman walks by, making a comment and nodding towards the four of you, standing in the door.  The first woman begins walking your way, guesturing expansively, taking in the whole room with a wave.    "Welcome strangers.  As you can see, we are busy early this evening.  But I believe there is a table available over in the corner by those sailors, there.  I am Noria, the owner here.  What will you have?"  
conversations: Kvard51:
conversations: human
conversations:  Elyn 
  
  Elyn smiles slightly nervously at the woman.   "Well met, uh... Miss Noria. We'll have uh..."   She looks at the others.   "What're we having?"  
conversations: BramsesII:
conversations: human
conversations:  " We would like a couple of rooms. One for the lady and another one for us three. We would also greatly appreciate it if you could give us the cost for the rooms. Maybe not in that particular order though. " Todd reples joining in to make the request himself while giving a wide smile to whom he guessed was the receptionist.
conversations: DaOldeWolf:
conversations: human
conversations:  She looks at you shrewdly, clearly noting your hesitance.    "The lot of you can sleep on pallets in the common room for 5 silver bits.  For 6 silver bits, I'll throw in a bowl of stew and a mug of traveler's friend.  A room would cost you dearly, being as how they are all full, what with the circus coming to town and all.
  
  Y'all better grab that table, before the rest of the farmers get the stock put up for the night."  
conversations: Kvard51:
conversations: human
conversations:  William Sendor   
   Circus? I didn't know that would be occurring now... 
  
  "Excuse me."  William attempts to get Noria's attention.
  
   "What circus is this? Where are they travelling from...and where are they heading next?" 
conversations: Feirgon:
conversations: human
conversations:  " It seems we might be getting a really poor bed. Still, it could be nice to at least check the circus out if they are so popular. " Todd replies with curiosity on the circus. He then turns to William as he hears him speak with interest about it for some more practical uses. " That could be useful. " He turns to the receptionist and asks " Do you know where could we find them? "
conversations: DaOldeWolf:
conversations: human
conversations:  Spoiler: ooc 
  Uh...I posted something a while ago but it seems like it didn't end up going through. Anyways...
  
  knowledge (local)  (1d20+5)[ 8 ]  for information about said circus.
   
  
    "A circus? Now, come to think of it, I did hear something about that earlier...uh...I don't remember, though."   Cris seems to be struggling with his memory somewhat recently - must be the rigors of his trip.
conversations: theasl:
conversations: human
conversations:  " Still, I am kinda sorry. I wish I could have gotten us a room. I suppose it Will be for the next time. " Todd apologizes to the rest. Equinox nods silently in agreement.
conversations: DaOldeWolf:
conversations: human
conversations:  Elyn 
  
  The alchemist shudders as the atmosphere in the room reminds her of the creep with the bugs.   "Yeesh. No rooms. I uh... hope there's no bugs or uh... other creepies."
  
  "I would like to uh... see the circus, though. Sounds... interesting."  
conversations: BramsesII:
conversations: human
conversations:  Noria smiles, her eyes crinkling at the corners, as she takes in the various responses from the lot of you.   "Haven't you heard?  The Umbra Carnival is coming to town.  They've got a menagerie, a fortune teller, even a Sphinx!  I figured you all for folks visiting to see them." 
   
   Spoiler: Knowledge (Local) or Diplomacy (Umbra Carnival) 
  
   
   Spoiler: DC 5 
  “A traveling carnival? Beware my friend! These things are just a front for criminal activity. The games are rigged, the sideshows are farcical and the food is filthy. Sure the women are comely, but their welcome smiles and scant costumes are a distraction for the menfolk to cut your purse. My cousin got lured behind a wagon by a likely wench and got his head cracked open for his
  trouble. Blasted dancers! Now he’s dumb and broke. Trust me, keep your distance!”
   
  
   
   Spoiler: DC 10 
  “Traveling carnivals are wicked fun! Even if you don’t have much coin, here’s always something to see. Harrowers, savage beasts, all manner of freaks and the dancing ladies—oh my! The smell of perfume, roasting meat and pipeweed makes me delightfully dizzy. There’s usually a good fight to watch, too. My uncle told me about this time he won 10 gold Sails wrestling Khoshut
  the Backbreaker, an exiled Shoanti warchief. I only wish they came more often.”
   
  
   
   Spoiler: DC 15 
   The Umbra Carnival is one of the many traveling shows that circulate around Varisian towns and cities providing entertainment in exchange for a bit of coin. Some believe these troupes are a front for Sczarni crime families who fleece as many locals as they can before
  hitting the road ahead of an angry mob. They feature freakshows, games of skill and chance, a menagerie of exotic or dangerous creatures, acrobats, musicians and fortune-tellers. The workers are often all part of an extended family, but there are always a few collected castoffs of society.
   
  
   
   Spoiler: DC 20 
  The Umbra Carnival began over ten years ago. It grew gradually into the size of a small village, with a diverse array of attractions and amusements from all over Avistan. The sincere intent of the carnival is to provide much-needed entertainment at a price communities can afford. One of the center-stage attractions is Jherizhana, a sphinx captured in Thuvia and bought by the carnival.
   
  
   
   Spoiler: DC 25 
  The former adventurer Almara Delisen founded the Umbra Carnival over a decade ago. She uses her illusion magic as the centerpiece of a traveling show that passes through small towns starved for entertainment and a glimpse of life beyond their borders. With time, other performers, acts, and attractions joined her circus— lost souls and lonely hearts, eager to see the world or leave some part of it behind.
   
  
   
conversations: Kvard51:
conversations: human
conversations:  Elyn 
  
  The alchemist offers the woman a small smile in return.   "We uh.. we had no idea. Or I didn't, uh... at least. But maybe we'll go and have a uh... a look. Sounds fun, right guys?"  
   
   Spoiler: Roll: 
  Knowledge (local): (1d20+3)[ 18 ] 
   
conversations: BramsesII:
conversations: human
conversations:  Spoiler: ooc 
  err...let's try diplomacy  (1d20+9)[ 20 ] 
   
  
  At the innkeeper's words, Cris's memory is finally jogged, and he breaks out in a grin.   "I knew there was a circus around, but I didn't know it was here. And the one with the sphinx! Always wanted to see it. Just my luck, I guess."  
conversations: theasl:
conversations: human
conversations:  Spoiler: Dice Roll 
   (1d20+4)[ 17 ] 
   
  
  
  " It could definitely be a good chance. Where can we find them? " Todd replies wondering if they could go there and check them out early. He hadnt seen in one before and it could be a good chance to finally know one. " I hope you all are as excited as I am. "
conversations: DaOldeWolf:
conversations: human
conversations:  William Sendor   
  
  "I, too, would like to see what the have. The circus was one of the few times I got an experience that felt foreign or different from home."  William ponders for a moment.
  
   "It definitely is in line with my wanting to see more of the world...but what is a Sphinx?" 
conversations: Feirgon:
conversations: human
conversations:  "Well, they'll be here tomorrow.  So you better grab that table before someone else does and enjoy the evening."    She smiles again, waving you through.    "Will you be staying the night then? 6 silver for the lot of you, plus stew and a mug.  Ale after that will cost you 2 coppers a mug."  
conversations: Kvard51:
conversations: human
conversations:  " Yeah, we will take them. We need somewhere to sleep anyway. I´ll pay for the four of us. " He replies as he hands over the money to the receptionist. It wasnt much but a place to stay was necessary and it wasnt like they could get anything better. He gives his name and makes the reservation. " Well, who wants to come and check out the town with me? We might even get a glance of the circus.  " He then waits at the front door for anyone who decides to join.
conversations: DaOldeWolf:
conversations: human
conversations:  Cris shakes his head as Todd ends up paying for everyone after all.   "Thanks, you really didn't have to"  , he says with a warm smile. Then, after Todd heads back towards the door, he adds through a yawn or two:   "I think I'll stay here and hold our spot, just in case someone tries to take it, and see what news is coming through the tavern here. Let me know if you find anything interesting!"  
conversations: theasl:
conversations: human
conversations:  Elyn 
  
  The alchemist nods.   "That's very uh... kind of you."   She looks at Cris, then Todd, before making a decision.   "I think I'll uh... head into town with you. Who knows what we'll uh... find."  
conversations: BramsesII:
conversations: human
conversations:  William Sendor  
  
  William nods his head in thanks.  "I hope to repay your benevolence."  He says to Todd.
  
   "As for exploring the town, I think I would rather start that in the morning. I'll stay here with Chris and enjoy some food and rest." 
  
  He then heads over to the table to join Chris.
conversations: Feirgon:
conversations: human
conversations:  William and Chris settle down at their table, and soon are filling their bellies with a thick, hearty stew.  The cold ale washes it down nicely.  As the stew fills in the corners of your hunger and you lean back, contented, you begin to overhear the conversations around you.  The town is abuzz with the knowledge of the Umbra Carnival.  Folks are clearly excited.
  
  Elyn and Todd wander the almost empty streets of Ilsurian looking for something interesting to do.  And although they see an occasional local finishing up his chores and the like, the town seems larely empty.  On the southwestern edge of town, you do come across a large field cordoned off.  Good, old-fashioned common sense tells you this is the circus site.
  
  What do you wish to do?
conversations: Kvard51:
conversations: human
conversations:  Todd looks around as they walk the streets. He quite enjoyed the calm environment of the place especially since it wasnt crowded. Streets were always better when you didnt have to push your way through. He took a look at a couple of stores but decided to keep moving forward. As he notices the place that was cordoned. " Wow, do you think this Will be the place where they put up the circus? It is a shame that is not ready yet. It must be quite the experience. Shall we take a look? " He speaks playfully.
conversations: DaOldeWolf:
conversations: human
conversations:  Elyn 
  
  Elyn is quiet as they make their way through the streets. She prefers the quiet, as that is something she's used to in the town she grew up in. The alchemist nods when Todd speaks.   "Would've been good to uh... get a sneak peek. I uh... say we go for it and uh... see."  
conversations: BramsesII: