DM Kathy Thursday December 8th, 2005 12:04:25 AM
Soberly, the Swords of Light make their farewells and begin putting themselves in order. Some concentrate on the physical: washing up, repairing equipment, checking armor. Others are more concerned with the spiritual and emotional: revising opinions, coping with memories, acknowledging grief. One thing is certain: none of the Swords will be the same after your experiences here.
As evening approaches, you prepare for action. You must leave the city as quietly as you can, then find a safe place to camp.
[In your post, give me an idea of your overall strategy for leaving the city safely. Also, make Hide and Move Silently checks. Anyone with ranks in Survival, make a Survival check to find a good place to camp.]
OOC - MikeK Thursday December 8th, 2005 7:51:40 AM
Kathy -- welcome to Swords of Light.
I think we're already out of the city. The DM post from a couple days ago says we're in "a small stone barn at the edge of a field about a half mile from the southernmost edges of the Culverwood".
Lorth d20+1=13 d20+1=10 Thursday December 8th, 2005 8:23:50 AM
If sneaking is involved, Lorth removes his armor and does his best to "sneak", although it certainly does not come easy. Otherwise he just follows along with the party making his normal noise. (Hide: 13, MS: 10)
Harvest (HP 29/34) d20+7=18 d20+8=13 d20+6=26 Thursday December 8th, 2005 11:22:20 AM
One last look. Harvest Moon turns her head in the direction in which Solonn had departed for one last look. He is gone. And yet he is there. On the road. They will always be together. On the road.
During the rest, the wait for nightfall, the small brown girl finds that many times her hands come together, palms facing outward in the symbol of Alemi. She tastes the newness of it. It brings a comfort and a focus.
When Andrath Silverhand calls for the resumption of their escape, Harvest Moon once again places her hands together and channels divine magic. Alemi's touch is so different than Gargul. There is the same weight of responsibility, and yet the dark sense of gravity is gone, replaced by an optimism that lights the corners of Harvest Moon's mind. She repeats this twice, touching both Bralin Stoneminder and the paladin Lorth Jeradosta.
"Alemi's Guidance," she says by way of explanation, "should you choose to use it as we make our way to the Culverwood."
Rolls and Actions Cast Guidance on Bralin and Lorth +1 to that Hide or MS if they want Hide 18 Move Silently 13 Survival 26 (Nat 20)
Day's Spells Level Zero 3: *Guidance x2, Detect Magic Level One 3 + 1 DC16: *Domain: Longstrider, Command, *Obscuring Mist
* = Used
Any d20+4=6 d20+2=12 Thursday December 8th, 2005 12:27:59 PM
Having refreshed himself, Any is feeling much beter about things. He prepares as much as possible for the next stage of their journey, restocking food and water, and preparing himself mentally.
He sits and strums lightly on his Lute untill Andrath calls for the group to continue their escape. He carefully stows his instrument, but keeps his bow ready to hand. He misses his horse Moonshadow, and his stout staff which is upon his saddle. He wishes he had the ability to call his friend in the same way Lorth does. He hopes that he is well, and well cared for. This is the first chance he has had to even think about his steed in some time. Perhaps they will be rejoined soon.
He takes his place towards the rear of the party, and strives to keep his senses alert for danger (spot and listen 6 & 12!)
Arminas d20+16=35 d20+11=26 d20+12=29 d20+8=24 d20+10=11 Thursday December 8th, 2005 1:39:07 PM
Arminas looks to his companions as the light fades, and says:
"Though we are out of the prison and fortress, we still face danger ahead. The forest is yet a half mile away, and we need to move through the open fields. Stealth is still important. Perhaps I could help those with armor add some straw or other padding, until we reach the forest. That should make them more quiet, if you desire. Andrath, if you desire I will lead the way into the forest."
Arminas then prepares his bow, and when the time come quietly slips out of the barn and moves toward the forest waiting beyond. If they make it safely there, he will move the group into the thick of the forest before searching for a campsite.
Rolls Hide 35 Move Silently 26 Survival 29 Spot 24 Listen 11 (natural 1, probably because Lorth and Bralin were making too much noise)
It is a well known fact that Bralin doesn't "sneak". The dwarf's movement across the open field does nothing to disabuse that notion.
Aware he is a major liability here, Bralin concentrates on getting to the woodline as fast as he reasonably can.
Andrath (25/37 hp) d20+13=20 d20+13=31 d20+17=31 d20+12=22 Thursday December 8th, 2005 10:08:22 PM
At the strike of midnight (or thereabouts), Andrath leads the way out of the barn and across the opening to the line of woods. [OOC: Hide 20, Move Silently 31, Spot 31, Listen 22.]
"Each of you with night-sight leads one without. Pick a partner and stay together as pairs, separated one pair behind the next by 20' or so as we move directly to the treeline. Bralin, you bring up the rear. You have the best sight of all of us tonight, so make sure that no-one is straggling. We can take our time, and keep our eyes and ears open. Once we are 50' inside the trees, we form up together again, and move deeper. Arminas, you and Harvest start looking for a safe place for us to bed down. We leave in the morning before the sun is up; we want to put as much room as possible between us and that city."
DM Kathy Friday December 9th, 2005 2:09:39 AM
Under cover of darkness, you make for the relative safety of the forest. You do your best to move stealthily, which comes easier for some than it does for others.
Luckily, you awaken nothing more threatening than a flock of starlings, which chirp at you in sleepy irritation before settling down again. Between them, Harvest Moon and Arminas find you an excellent spot to pass the rest of the night.
From that point on, your journey home is (thankfully) uneventful. You have plenty of time to discuss recent events among yourselves, and to mull over your own experiences while in captivity.
You return to Jarlwolf and find it much as you left it--which makes the changes you see that much more noticable. The buildings are still there, and the people, but there is a new wariness, even suspicion, among the common folk of the town. Listening to the talk, you gather that many are harboring a distrust for elf-kind, whom they see as the ones who unleased the Fae King on the Wold. Those of elf-blood, in turn, are suspicious of those who are not--for who knows whether they might turn out to be in league with the Tyrant? There is a grim undertone even to the warm welcome you receive.
Still, you are back, and it is good to return. You have a little time now to rest, make repairs, and do whatever other errands come to mind.
Any Friday December 9th, 2005 10:02:17 AM
Upon arriving in Jarlwolf, Any immediately goes to check on Moonshadow ,and the gear which was with him. Once assured all is well, he pays the hosteler for his troubles (5 GP) and then goes to seek a room at the Inn. He asks for a tub of hot water, and says that while it is being prepared, he is going to go shopping (10 GP), and comes back with a small bundle containing what looks like clothes and trail rations. He goes up to his room with his purchases, takes a hot bath, and comes down dressed in clothes similar to what he had been wearing, but new. He orders a modest dinner, and once finished, he sits in a corner of the pub area strumming lightly on his instrument, and singing lightly to himself. He seems to be puzzling over some of the words, and if any get close enough to hear, they can tell he is composing a song, changing the words of a phrase here and there. After a while he stops, and looks around for any of his companions.
Lorth Friday December 9th, 2005 12:47:28 PM
Lorth goes to the stables and tries to procure himself a war saddle, if not he settles for a normal riding saddle. He also gets himself some saddlebags.
He then goes to the woods to visit his mother to make sure she is getting on ok.
Barring something out of the ordinary, he meets up with his friends at the inn.
Harvest Friday December 9th, 2005 4:35:08 PM
The trails and paths of the Culverwood take on new meaning as Harvest Moon travels with the rest of the Swords of Light on their way back to Jahrlwolf. They had come this way as a party of eight. Now they return, a party of six. The trip back is strangely quiet. Or, perhaps not so strange, as there are many things on which to think. Harvest herself takes inventory of her collection of scrolls and wands. Some have been of great use. Others, not so much. On a piece of parchment, she makes notations to guide her when it comes time to restock.
Back in town, the brown girl excuses herself quietly and leaves her companions for the elven refugee camp. The children bring a smile to her face. But the smile is short-lived. How hard it is, to relate the conditions of their homeland to the dispossessed. How greatly had been her own hopes for putting things right. And now to be forced to tell them that returning would be unwise, that they would face slavery or death. Magpie Crossing may welcome them. The area is rebuilding after the invasion from the Crimson Fort, and they may welcome the help. But then again, would those with families wish to locate so near to the Dead Zone? And what might the reaction be to elves after the treachery of Captain Greenblade?
Harvest returns to the inn, quiet and dispirited. Perhaps food would improve her mood. That thought, however, only makes her wistful for Hildy's chicken pie.
DM Kathy Monday December 12th, 2005 12:44:14 AM
Now back in Jarlswolf, you take some time to make sure all is as you left it. Any discovers Moonshadow and his gear intact, and takes some time to clean up. Lorth checks on his mother and finds her well--but worried about him.
Harvest spends some time visiting the elf refugeess, a sobering experience. Indeed, the question of what is to be done with the refugees is of growing concern in town.
Less than 24 hours after you arrive, you receive a summons to the Pitchfork Council, which will be meeting that very evening. They want to hear of your experiences in the Culverwood, and discuss what the next course of action should be.
If anyone asks around (DC 15 Gather Information), Highlight to display spoiler: { you learn that the Council was not scheduled to meet this evening; apparantly, this subject was considered important enough to call a special session on very short notice. }
You do still have a few hours before the Council meets; you can run a few more errands and still have some time to prepare for the meeting.
Bralin Monday December 12th, 2005 8:32:50 AM
Bralin stays at the inn. He has no errands, and remains most comfortable in solitude.
At one point, the dwarf does stir himself long enough to seek out Lorth. Finding the paladin, Bralin presents him with a green marble statuette.
"I would have you take this," he tells the man. "Tis a rememberance I have dallied with."
The statuette is composed of green marble, infused with bands of black. It depicts Bralin and Lorth standing side by side while fending off a troll. The base of it is 4 inches square and it stands 8 inches high. The statue is quite detailed and of good quality (worth 15 gp).
Lorth Monday December 12th, 2005 10:27:20 AM
Lorth is taken aback by Bralin's gift. "Thank you friend Bralin, it is simply perfect.", Lorth stammers out. Composing himself... he continues, "If only I had a place to display it. But for now it will have to travel safely in my pack. I will treasure it and it will always have a special place right besides my father's sword." Lorth grabs a chair at the inn and spends the next hour going over the details of Bralin's work.
Harvest d20+2=18 Monday December 12th, 2005 10:57:02 AM
Anthos Westar is present at the inn. Harvest seats herself near him and tells all present of the conditions at the refugee camp. There is relief when the summons comes. So much more time may have been required to petition for an audience.
A light meal is nothing more than a minor preoccupation as Harvest Moon engages the locals at the common room in conversation about the elven refugees, their feelings toward them, and news of the happenings that had occurred in the time the group had been gone. One surprising bit of information was the urgency with which the Pitchfork Council seems to have convened this evenings meeting. The news leaves Harvest Moon with a feeling of unease.
"I must replenish some of my supplies," she announces. "I will return before the meeting this evening."
Rolls and Actions Gather Information 18
Day's Spells Level Zero 3: Guidance, Detect Magic, Mend Level One 3 + 1 DC16: Domain: Longstrider, Comprehend Languages, Bless
Arminas d20=11 Monday December 12th, 2005 4:15:13 PM
Arminas spends his time outside with Ewan, reconnecting with a friend he thought was lost. When he learns of the summons to the Pitchfork Council, he decides he needs to first visit the catacombs.
He returns with a bow to replace the one broken by the parnothian.
Day's spells Entangle times 2
Andrath Monday December 12th, 2005 9:29:10 PM
Andrath has a small bite to eat, and then says, "I am heading over to the Catacombs, to purchase some items. I will be back in time to meet with you and the council." Then the elf heads out the door, making his way to the entrance of the wonderful magic shoppe.
Any Monday December 12th, 2005 10:03:52 PM
Any moves around the pub of the Inn, listening to the conversations of those around. When Harvest comes in, he moves to her table strumming softly on his Lute when there is a lull in the conversations around him. When she leaves to shop, he orders a light meal. and prepares to go meet the pitchfork council.
DM Kathy Tuesday December 13th, 2005 12:05:28 AM
You pass the afternoon pleasantly enough, visiting friends, grabbing a bite, doing a bit of shopping. Some visit the renowned Catacombs.
Evening arrives, and you make your way to Solstice Hall, where the Pitchfork Council is meeting. You have been here before, and nothing much has changed. Again, you are shown to the rather uncomfortable "no-man's land" between the council and the general public, separated by barriers from both. The Council are alredy in place; Dulcet looks at each of you as you enter, her expression unreadable. Also present are Caerthon the paladin and Hermit of Gargul. The Greenmage is not there, but everyone else seems to be. You recognize the black-haired witch of the Witchspawn and the unassuming hmana. The gruff representative of the Hill People glowers at you as you are seated.
As before, a clerk calls everyone to order and declares the session open. Dulcet rises to her feet. "Citizens of Cinnamon Valley, and fellow Council members, thank you for attending this special Council session on what I know was short notice. We are meeting tonight to discuss recent events in the Culverwood, in light of the new information brought back by these brave adventurers." With a sweep of her hand, she indicates all of you. "I move that we first listen to their reports in person, so that we can discuss what is to be done next."
The black-haired witch seconds the motion, and it is soon carried. Dulcet gestures toward your group again. "If you please," she says, "tell us what happened. What did you see and hear? And what, in your opinion, is to be done from this point forward?"
Lorth Tuesday December 13th, 2005 9:10:06 AM
Lorth says nothing, he leaves the speaking to people more accustomed to it.
Harvest Tuesday December 13th, 2005 10:25:09 AM
"Parnoth will not be moved by reason," Harvest Moon begins. The, with a slight pause, she backtracks. "The Green Mage had been imprisoned by his own ... aides. We were able to free him, and he requested that we travel to the Emerald Kingdom to investigate the situation there."
Harvest looks about the room.
"Has the Greenmage not been here? Last we saw him he said that he intended to seek you out, Madam Dulcet."
Though there could be no possibility that she had missed such an impressive figure as the Greenmage, Harvest looks about the room once more. Then, from within the weight of the uncomfortable silence, she continues.
"We have found that Parnoth has removed all those of elfish blood from the Council of Elders. They have been replaced by senior civil servants from primary trading partners and those who might profit from the suppression of the elves in the area. The campaign against elves in that region is very thorough, and, I fear, long lasting."
Day's Spells Level Zero 3: Guidance, Detect Magic, Mend Level One 3 + 1 DC16: Domain: Longstrider, Comprehend Languages, Bless
Any Tuesday December 13th, 2005 11:57:54 AM
As Harvest finishes, any steps forward.
" I have not been with these my comrades long, but I do feel that Parnoth might be approachable. The emissary would need to be a human, and would need to address the larger picture to Parnoth. He must understand that the elves contribute more to his kingdom free, than they ever will as slaves. If the council decides to attempt to unseat Parnoth, you would need to be prepared to take his place as a buffer in that area to those who only restrain their own ambitions due to his presence in there.
Aside from this, my opinion counts for little. I am but a poor traveling bard, trying to help in this time of need. I will continue to aid in this cause because I think it is just. My sword, such as it is, will stand with my friends here for as long as there is a need."
Any then steps back to listen to what the others have to say.
Arminas Tuesday December 13th, 2005 12:07:09 PM
"The young lady is correct, Parnoth has gained complete control over the movement of elves in the Emerald Kingdom."
Arminas then looks toward the public in attendance.
"Do not fool yourselves into thinking this is a problem for elves only! We were all taken prisoner by creatures spawned by Parnoth, who could easily best any in this room. Human, dwarf and elf were all treated the same. Shackled and marched to prison. The dwarf and I were both strung up and whipped, the proof being scars upon our backs. Even the paladin, who abides all laws was arrested and turned into a common criminal."
Looking towards the council, he adds: "These half dragon spawn of Parnoth are very dangerous and strong. We do not know how many have been created, or what plans Parnoth has for them. It took all of us fighting a single creature to best him. I fear that in numbers they could spread the reign of Parnoth, even to Jarlswolf."
Andrath Tuesday December 13th, 2005 9:16:01 PM
"Parnoth is taking elves prisoners, and attaching some sort of bracers to their arms. Apparently, these bracers can force the elves to do his bidding, or at least cause such pain that they will do what he commands. An elf lady with such a bracer tried to take us prisoner, but we managed to defeat her. She led us to the Emerald City, where we were captured by three huge lizard creatures and their soldiers. Later, we met the lady elf again, and she had cut off her arm to be free of the bracer. Some sort of elf underground attacked our jailors, and we managed to escape. And so, here we are."
Bralin Tuesday December 13th, 2005 9:47:51 PM
The council asks two questions. His companions have answered "What has happened". Only Any followed up with "What do we do from this point forward", and has missed the point.
"Prepare for war," Bralin tells the council. "And wait."
"The Fae King has risen. Nature rises as well. To what end is unknown. Parnoth rises, reaching deep into Culverwood to bring elves under his sway. Does he seek to attack or defend? This too is unknown. The Dread rise. They occupy Crimson Fort and seek to destroy ye. Forget not The Dread, for they are your only true foe."
"Prepare for war, and wait," the dwarf repeats. "Mayhap Parnoth or Fae King are your ally."
"Entreat with Parnoth, aye. Send an emmisary to New Elenna. Mayhap they can entreat with the wyrm, power to power."
DM Kathy Wednesday December 14th, 2005 2:13:27 AM
The Council and the assembled public listen as each of you speaks. A chorus of soft murmurs breaks out after each person finishes; clearly everyone thinks this is something to be discussed.
When Bralin wraps up, Dulcet rises again. "First, I should explain that Grynntym did indeed arrive here and make his report. He left the day before yesterday to investigate some rather unsettling reports coming out of the Culverwood. Unfortunately, there was not enough time to reach him before this special session began.
"As to recent events," she continues, "I believe our course of action is clear--"
"Oh you do, do you?" The sour-looking man representing the Hill People gets to his feet. "We're to take up arms in defense of this pointy-eared rabble? We're to embark on yet another 'adventure' that will leave good people dead and good cropland trampled and fallow? No!" He bangs his hand on the table for emphasis. "My people have had enough of killing and dying and refugees coming in from Wardd-knows-where. We want to be left alone. We don't want to be involved. And," he adds, wagging a finger at Dulcet, "we don't want the Council involving us against our will."
"Hmy people have no love for the Tyrant," the hmana representative begins, looking troubled, "but Garthor hmakes a good point. War brings hmisery and suffering. Should we not be attempting to avoid it?"
"If you'll recall," Caerthon says sternly, "Master Bralin and Masty Any both suggested sending an emissary. What would that be, if not an attempt to avoid open conflict?" He turns to face you. "Myself, I am troubled at the prospect of treating with this evil creature. As you point out, however, it may be necessary."
"I don't believe what I'm hearing!" An elf representative is on her feet, green eyes blazing. "My people suffer and die at the hands of this tyrant, and you would do nothing!" She glares at Garthor and the hmana. "And you!" she turns to Caerthon. "You would send an emissary to listen to the beast's honeyed lies, as if the sufferning of the elves meant nothing!"
She faces Dulcet. "We must form an army and march upon the Tyrant at once. To do anything less is to betray our elven allies in the Culverwood."
"Clearly," Dulcet says before the debate can go much further, "Clearly we need to discuss our options. But first--" she turns to your group, "have you anything to add?"
Lorth Wednesday December 14th, 2005 7:16:25 AM
Lorth rises when the elf yells at Caerthon, but waits to address her until Dulcet is done. "My friend Elf.", Lorth says sternly, "Do not seek to tell Caerthon his business, no doubt he would march to war and lay down his life for any of you if that was his only recourse, I could question whether you would do the same. Sending an emmisary, if it works, will save lives. Something I beleive we would all want.", he sweeps his gaze about the room. "But we should also prepare for war, should this emmisary fail." Lorth finishes and sits.
Bralin Wednesday December 14th, 2005 8:32:06 AM
Bralin frowns at the elf's outburst. Another "better death than slavery" opinion. The dwarf has been a prisoner twice, and has found the condition to be decidedly more temporary than its stated alternative.
"Ye have not the means to march on Parnoth," he states flatly. "Should ye scour your lands and call forth every noble and invade yon kingdom and somehow emerge victorious..."- Bralin pauses a moment to let them consider the possibility before slamming door on them - "...ye would return to find your homeland destroyed and your kin slaughtered by The Dread in your absense."
"Ye are pinned by numerous foes to the land ye dwell on. Tis time to seek aid from other lands. Whether it be to assemble allies in the war, or entreat potential foes for peace is a matter I leave to you. But your armies must remain here."
Any Wednesday December 14th, 2005 9:57:38 AM
Bralin's comments ring true in Any's ears, as do those of Lorth. He had said the same thing, but tried to couch his admonitions in more diplomatic terms.
"The Dragon is powerful, and has powerful allies, but he is not the only threat to the Wold. At the moment, he is only a threat to Elves, and an inconvenience to the rest. That could quickly change. The Dread, on the other hand, are always a threat to all. Parnoth stands as a buffer to them. His removal simply gives them one less barrier to overcome. The question we need to ask ourselves, is why has Parnoth suddenly changed his policies towards Elves? What has prompted this action? Has he had council from some other source showing the Elves as a threat? Did this trouble arise with the raising of the Fae King? We all know this has occurred, surely Parnoth does also, and we have seen first hand the affects brought to the Wold since his awakening. Have these feats somehow angered Parnoth? These things we must know, or seek to discover. This is why I counciled to send the emmissary to his court."
Having said more than he had inetended, Any bows to the Council, and takes a seat to listen to what the others have to say.
Harvest Wednesday December 14th, 2005 10:04:51 AM
The brown girl's head bobs in agreement as Paladin Lorth, Bralin Stoneminder and Anthos Westar speak their mind and give their counsel.
"Would it not be rash," Harvest Moon asks, "to raise an army to march through the unchartable Culverwood and enter a situation that you have, as yet learned little about?" She steps further out onto the floor, her hands lift within the folds of her oversized sleeves to gesture, to supplicate.
"I have seen the costs of raising an army. Men are taken from their families. Monies are diverted from feeding the poor to the purchase of arms. And this is before even the host departs for the field of battle. War does not affect the soldier on the field alone. It affects all of one's people."
"You have called this meeting this evening with great urgency, to hear of things of which you are uncertain. One lesson that we have learned is that the situation in the Emerald Kingdom is changing very swiftly. You recognize the wisdom of knowing the situation before moving your people into the path of war. Please realize then, that we have said little. We have seen little."
"We have heard rumors. If it brings comfort to you, we have heard that an army of Fey are gathering somewhere in the forest west of the Red Hills. Joining them, may be the Templars of the Wild. We have met some who go to join such an army."
"Also not all non-elf citizens of the Emerald Kingdom hold with Parnoth's edict against those of elvish blood. We have met some. They have lent us aide. We have also heard that there is sanctuary against Parnoth's oppression with a powerful group known as the Emerald Talons in their Tower of Saryd."
"Do not think that because we here do not act, that nothing is done."
"Rather than war, I would know what plans may be for settling the families of refugees. It would be unwise to leave them in their tent encampment for long. They need a place in the life here. And the charity of the people in this area can only be worn so thin."
Day's Spells Level Zero 3: Guidance, Detect Magic, Mend Level One 3 + 1 DC16: Domain: Longstrider, Comprehend Languages, Bless
Arminas Wednesday December 14th, 2005 10:52:54 AM
As his companions speak, Arminas sits and contemplates his experiences since his recent joining of the Swords of Light. Harvest finishes speaking, and Arminas rises once more.
"My friends are correct. War is a costly, though sometimes necessary. The dwarf though speaks true. Leaving to fight a war will invite the Dread to attack, all here will be lost. You do indeed need allies. May I suggest one?
The Fey King and his followers, including the elves. Do not turn your back on us. We may be your salvation in the end."
Andrath Wednesday December 14th, 2005 11:34:24 PM
"Sir elf, the suffering of the elves means a great deal. We have seen it first hand. We have seen an elf maiden cut off her arm so that she could escape the influence of Parnoth. However, is your intent to attack without knowing why, or without knowing your foe? Why is Parnoth suddenly dealing with the elves in such a terrible manner? How powerful is he; can he be defeated by an army that could be raised by this council? These are questions that we need answered before we take the offensive. In the refugee camps, certainly there must be someone who can explain why Parnoth is persecuting the elves."
"And as for you humans, you cannot hope to hide your head in the sand when oppression starts. If Parnoth discovers that the elves can easily be subjugated, what stops him from expanding his kingdom to take you over as well? The members of this council, and the people that they represent, are like sticks. Individually, they can be broken. But tied into a bundle, they are much stronger, and can better resist. Now is not the time for bickering. If it were humans that were being persecuted, would you not want the elves to come to your aid?"
DM Kathy Thursday December 15th, 2005 1:24:22 AM
The council listens as you speak, although some--notably Garthor of the Hill People--don't seem to want to hear what you have to say. When Andrath finishes, Dulcet rises again.
"Thank you," she says to you all. To the Council, she says, "I believe we can, at least, make a decision on whether to send an emissary to Parnoth, to see whether some kind of treaty can be agreed upon."
"I would support such an action," says Caerthon at once.
"As would I," says the hmana representative.
The Council votes and decides to send the envoy. Only dour Garthor and the hot-tempered elf woman vote against the action--presumably for different reasons.
"That being decided," says Caerthon after the vote, "we must still address the thornier issue of whether to prepare ourselves for a war. I will state frankly that the region of Magpie Crossing is ill-equipped to make such preparations at the present time."
"And hmy people are no warriors," says the hmana representative firmly.
"Still," says the black-haired witch, "we are not without resources here. Most notably, we have an entire refugee camp filled with people who will fight if we ask them..."
"Out of desparation," says the cleric of Alemi. "Because they have no place to call home and precious little in the way of belongings. This is not how free folk defend themselves, Arvra, and I'm surprised at you for suggesting it."
"Why don't you let them make that decision?" asks the elf woman with a scowl.
"Because it isn't just their decision to make," says Garthor. "If an army is raised, the rest of us must bear the cost. In gold, in provisions, in land gone fallow--aye, even in blood should our army lose its battle and this Parnoth extract his revenge. Better to stay out of trouble."
As the debate continues, you see Dulcet summon a page to her, and have a brief, whispered conversation. A moment later, the same page approaches you. "Mistress Dulcet would like to see you at her home this evening after the council meeting," he says, speaking quietly so as not to interrupt the conversation.
Lorth Thursday December 15th, 2005 7:36:22 AM
Lorth has nothing to add to the squabling. He waits and listens and will do as the page requests that evening.
Any Thursday December 15th, 2005 9:50:50 AM
Any listens to the discussions of the council. He is not sure if this group could agree to let the sun rise in the morning. As the page approaches, he steps closer to the others, and nods his agreement to go to Mistress Dulcet's house. When the meeting adjourns, he seeks the others so as to keep this meeting.
Arminas Thursday December 15th, 2005 10:39:46 AM
Arminas has had his say, and remains quiet for the rest of the meeting. He nods in consent about the meeting at Dulcet's house, and wonders what she has in mind.
Harvest Thursday December 15th, 2005 10:44:40 AM
A small crease of annoyance appears between the mouse brown wings of Harvest Moon's brows. And yet these are the many questions that must be asked in order to provide just, proper and equitable governance.
"A wise person, Boo," Pasix' voice comes to her from out of the past, "knows when to fight a fire. And when to allow a fire to do the work for which nature had intended it."
Harvest speaks no more. Rather, she observes as each member of the Pitchfork Council defends the needs of their constituents. They bring up points that others may have missed. And attempt to work toward an understanding. Many such meetings as this may be necessary before a decision of any sort is reached. But what is the alternative? Rule by the sword?
There is much work to do in the meantime. The elven refugees must have food, shelter, and meaning for their lives. And, perhaps there will be something more.
Harvest looks across the room at Dulcet. This evenings meeting would tell.
Bralin Thursday December 15th, 2005 11:35:11 AM
There are no more questions for The Swords. Therefore Bralin doesn't say anything.
He waits, and joins his comrades whereever they may go.
Andrath Thursday December 15th, 2005 9:05:27 PM
Like the rest of the party, Andrath watches to see how the meeting ends, and then joins with his friends as they go to meet with Dulcet.
DM Kathy Friday December 16th, 2005 12:36:40 AM
The debate goes on for an hour or more, and you are all decidedly stiff from sitting by the time the session finally comes to an end. Other than sending an emissary, nothing has been resolved. The Council will meet again in two days' time to further discuss the issue. With any luck, you won't have to be there.
Freed at last from the Council session, you make your way to Dulcet's manor house. She joins you shortly in a small parlor, and has light refreshments served.
"I have heard some troubling news of late that I would like you to investigate," she says, pouring out tea for you all. "Before we get into that, however, I would like to hear your thoughts on this evening's Council session. Have you any suggestions for how to help the refugees?"
She begins passing a plate of small sandwiches. "Also," she says, "I wanted to give you the opportunity to report on anything else you saw or experienced. Anything that, for whatever reason, you did not want to share with the entire Council. Is there anything else I ought to know?"
Lorth Friday December 16th, 2005 8:29:46 AM
Lorth thanks Dulcet for her hospitality, and says, "I have nothing further to add."
Harvest Friday December 16th, 2005 10:24:14 AM
Harvest Moon picks out three of the small sandwiches. Then, with a discreet look around at the others, she takes two more. The small brown girl considers the situation around a mouthful of sandwich.
"It is a long journey back through the Culverwood, to a situation that is uncertain," she says at last. "The refugees may be best served by knowing this."
"Beyond the truthful knowledge of their situation, I think that work would be the best thing that might be provided for them. Some may not wish this. Some may even cling to the hope that they be able to return to their homes soon. But, if there are jobs that are available, and if they are made open to the refugees, then I think that this could draw the refugees closer to the people of the Valley. There would be more understanding between the two peoples. This, apart from the work itself."
"The Council ... I have not been in this Valley long, Mistress Dulcet. They are of different peoples with different concerns. Do you think there is cause to be concerned about the way in which they work?"
"May I have more tea, please?" the brown girl asks.
Arminas Friday December 16th, 2005 12:28:13 PM
Arminas takes a sandwich and some tea. He slowly nibbles on the sandwich and sips the tea, listening to Dulcet and Harvest Moon.
"As for helping the refugees, perhaps I could talk to those who have intimate knowledge of the Culverwood. We could organize groups to gather the fruits of the forest. Since the Fey King has returned, the plants are growing and multiplying, thus producing much fruit. The market for more food is plain. Gathering of pine nuts, wild figs, mushrooms, tubers, teas, and fruits of many types is possible. I can quickly show them what is edible and what to avoid. The forest can feed many, if done in a sustainable manner."
Upon the request for more information, he adds:
"The only thing that was not reported was our encounter with the Fey King. He proved to be powerful and fair. A good and noble ally that should not be discounted."
Any Friday December 16th, 2005 1:45:25 PM
Any chooses a sandwich from the tray, and seeing Harvest take an extra, he does also, wrapping it carefully, and putting it in a pouch at his belt. He thinks Harvest has a destination for this food, and he is glad to contribute to the small girls largess.
Any does not contribute anything to the conversation, the others have covered the relevant facts of what has occurred. He wishes he could play his Lute, or sing, but the occasion does not seem to be right for that, and it would interfere with the groups conversation.
After all have had their say, Any says,
"What is this other matter that you wished us to look into Mistress Dulcet?"
He then awaits what else will be said.
Bralin Friday December 16th, 2005 3:30:30 PM
The dwarf stands in the small room, but doesn't see the point. Had he anything else important to say, he'd have said it at the Council Meeting.
The plate of sandwiches comes around. Bralin grabs a few with his large, unwashed hand and crams them into his mouth. He chews contendedly, swallows, and washes the remainder down with a couple hasty gulps of the extraordinarily weak beer the woman provides.
He belches in satisfaction. Any meeting with food cannot be called a total waste of time.
Andrath Sunday December 18th, 2005 9:48:52 PM
"Certainly, the refugees will need food, shelter and a way to keep warm. I suggest that the council will need to set up some sort of administration. Otherwise, there will likely be friction between the two parties."
Then he says, around a mouthful of sandwich, "What sort of trouble?"
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