DM Kathy Wednesday February 6th, 2013 11:50:49 PM
Everybody take 2400 XP for the first scene. Good job! I especially liked the role-play elements.
I'm awarding Hero Points to Asteron and Ragnarök for the crocodile fight. They stood up front and absorbed the attacks, and gave the group enough time to take it down. [You are limited to a total of 4 Hero Points at this level, so if you already have 4, you can't add this one.]
Faust returns to the boat and is able to help clean the crocodile gunk off his compaions. Ragnarök asks about Auntie, but the kobolds are getting in their own boat, and conversation is difficult.
The kobolds lead you further down the river. The jungle is awakening all around you; you hear the cries of birds and the occasional splash of something hunting in the river.
When you are about an hour from the waystation where you spent the night, the kobolds begin heading for shore. Presumably, there is some kind of landmark here; certainly you see nothing to distinguish this bit of river-bank from any other.
The kobolds disembark, and tug their boat a short way upstream. Ka pushes back an overhanging branch, and you can now see where several kobold boats are tied to the bank, hidden from view by the branch and a large rock. "Leave boat here," Ka says.
The kobolds lead the way through the jungle. Once you are a short way from the river, you find yourselves on an obvious path. The kobolds, apparently, are concerned about people coming upon them from the river, but not from the jungle. Or perhaps hiding this trail was just too much effort.
As you walk, Ka explains in Draconic Highlight to display spoiler: { "Auntie is a very old kobold, probably the oldest of the kobolds. She has a name, I suppose, but everybody calls her Auntie, because she's related to half the village. We have a chief, a strong and cunning warrior, but even the chief knows it's best to listen to Auntie. She was the one who told us to speak to those who made the camps."}
After a few minutes' walking, you reach the kobold village. It is a rough circle of about 15 huts, all sized for Small creatures. Several fires burn, and there is the smell of cooking. Kobolds, who had been going about their business, look up as you approach and there is a general stir of excitement.
Then, they see the litter with the slain kobold, and the mood becomes more somber. A few kobolds, obviously distraught, come rushing to his side.
(Ezra, the Second) Yngvar Hefnd AC 14{18}/14{18}/12{16} -- CMD 13 -- HP 25/25 Thursday February 7th, 2013 1:24:47 AM
As the group approaches the village Yngvar suggests "sheath thy weapons, and be careful of what you do here, until we know these people offending a taboo or tradition may be unforgivable, and be careful of anyone offering you something, you may find yourself betrothed."
<"Ka, we know not your ways, please forgive us any inadvertent transgressions. Having someone to guide us from offending anyone would be of use to both our peoples. And please convey our most sincere condolences for the loss of your tribe members."> Yngvar translates for his companions.
(StevenVdB) Ragnarök HP 34/34 - AC25/24/19 / 24 vs AoO - CMD 24 / 26 vs Grapple Thursday February 7th, 2013 3:20:14 PM
Ragnarök silently follows the group into the Kobold camp. As Yngvar gives the advice to sheath their weapons Rag raises an eyebrow... and tucks his hands in his pockets... But then he realises that a) that wasn't what Yngvar intended and b) the Kobolds could take that as an offence... so the Monk just quietly follows.
(Jorge) Asteron Worldtraveller AC 17/09/15 -- CMD 21 -- HP 22/43 -- Rage 15/17 -- ENLARGED TO HUGE Thursday February 7th, 2013 5:22:19 PM
Asteron smiles ay Yngvar's directions. He doesn't think it is that complicated, especially since they just killed the river god, but he decides not to say anything. After all, the big taur is not a diplomat.
So, he contently follows the others, being careful not to stare, and not to break anything but, beyond that, he is not too concerned.
(Pedro) Faust Havler Tavir'e AC 17/13/14 -- CMD 14 -- HP 27/27 // Wolfgang AC 17/15/14 -- CMD 13 -- HP 13/13 Thursday February 7th, 2013 10:34:30 PM "We'll be fine...these kobolds are aces in my book. Totally different from the kobolds you hear about in tales."
"By the way, Ka said that this auntie is the village elder, she's not the chief, just an elder, but apparently a very wise one that even the chief listens to. It was her who told the young'uns to seek us out.", says Faust, following the group and looking all over the place, taking mental notes of every glaring cultural point he can perceive, not really trying but failing nonetheless to hide his overall enthusiasm in getting in touch with a rather unknown civilization.
(Sean) Toregan Dondarin AC 18/14/14 -- CMD 19 -- HP 29/29 Friday February 8th, 2013 12:04:22 AM
Toregan shoulders his bow, not wishing to offend any of the tribe. "We should talk to her and the chief then. Preferably at the same time, so as not to offend one if them."
DM Kathy Friday February 8th, 2013 12:05:45 AM Faust translates Ka's explanation as the group enters the village.
Yngvar advises caution, concerned that the group may break some tribal taboo they don't know about, but so far things seem to be going well.
More kobolds are now coming out of their huts. They stare at all of you, particularly Asteron, who looms over them.
Ka and the other kobolds from his party give a brief account (in Draconic) of the fight against the River God. They heap praise on your group, and also praise the bravery of the fallen warrior, whose name seems to be Thyrykkh. His family takes possession of the litter, and bears him off, presumably to prepare him for a funeral.
Meanwhile, a small kobold runs up to Ka. Its voice is high-pitched, even for a child, so you tentatively peg it as female. Highlight to display spoiler: {"Auntie wants to see you,"} she tells Ka in breathless Draconic.
Ka nods, and looks at you. "Come," he says.
He leads the way to one of the huts. It is, perhaps, a bit larger than some of the others, but not ostentatiously so. Ka pulls aside a flap of skin from over the entrance, and leads the way inside. Most of you have to duck down to enter the hut, and poor Asteron practically has to crawl.
The inside of the hut is quite crowded, even before you enter it. Strange knickknacks are everywhere, including hanging from the ceiling. The place smells pungently--but not entirely unpleasantly--of herbs and woodsmoke. The lighting is dim.
Seated in a chair near the center of the hut is a very old kobold. Her markings have faded to a near-uniform gray; her face is a mass of wrinkles. Her hands are folded over a short walking-stick.
"Well," she says, in perfect, unaccented Common. "And who might you be?"
(Pedro) Faust Havler Tavir'e AC 17/13/14 -- CMD 14 -- HP 27/27 // Wolfgang AC 17/15/14 -- CMD 13 -- HP 13/13 Friday February 8th, 2013 1:36:42 PM
Faust can't help but take couple seconds too long to say anything at all due to being surprised by how fluent the elder is, once the initial shock passes he is able to formulate a proper answer, "My name is Faust Havler of the Tavir'e drow house, your kin most probably knows us...as in, our particular group, as the ones who made the camp sites."
"Also...I don't mean to be nosy, but I take from how fluent you are in our language as well as the fact you advised the younger ones to seek us out that you had a previous, apparently fruitful, contact with our kind?"
(Ezra, the Second) Yngvar Hefnd AC 14{18}/14{18}/12{16} -- CMD 13 -- HP 25/25 Saturday February 9th, 2013 4:55:54 PM
Yngvar respectfully nods to Auntie, "I am called Yngvar Hefnd, greetings." Yngvar goes on to introduce the rest of the party.
(StevenVdB) Ragnarök HP 34/34 - AC25/24/19 / 24 vs AoO - CMD 24 / 26 vs Grapple Sunday February 10th, 2013 11:03:04 AM "Ragnarök Scarecrow", the Monk says as he lowers his head in a small bow, "At your service."
Once the sign is given for the group to sit down around 'Auntie' Ragnarök does so in the Lotus posture, his hands folded on his lap palms outward. He remains silent... not being the most talkative or the best diplomat he figures he's best to let others do the talking.
(Jorge) Asteron Worldtraveller AC 17/09/15 -- CMD 21 -- HP 22/43 -- Rage 15/17 -- ENLARGED TO HUGE Sunday February 10th, 2013 1:31:06 PM
Asteron has a bit of trouble to get into the hut. Yet, he smiles as he has to get down on all fours, knowing that the alternative would be to remove the roof of the hut, and that might offend those inside. Once inside, sits on his haunches, and keeps his head lowered, so as not to break anything with his gold-colored horns.
When Auntie speaks, he simply replies: "I am Asteron, called Worldtraveller. And I seek the meaning of life."
DM Kathy Sunday February 10th, 2013 9:14:20 PM
Auntie looks at each of you as you speak. "And greetings to you, Yngvar Hefnd," she returns.
"You have an interesting name, Ragnarök Scarecrow," she says. "Maybe someday you'll humor an old lady and tell me about it, eh?"
At Asteron's introduction, she gives a dry, cackling laugh. "The meaning of life!" she says. "My boy, there's no such thing. Do your best and try not to get eaten; that's about it."
"Not precisely with your kind, Faust Havler, she replies. "But that is another tale for another time."
She does not ask you to sit, but there are mats everywhere, presumably for such a purpose. Asteron, of course, has not choice but to sit--and if anybody else sits, Auntie does not object.
"Ka, my boy," she says, "run and tell young Sskurhe that I want to see him. There's a good lad." Ka murmurs, "Yes, Auntie," and leaves the tent.
"So," she looks at each of you again. "So, you are, as I understand, the representatives of those who made the waystations. I can only guess as to their purpose, but I imagine it has something to do with trade--is that right?" She allows you to answer, and continues. "Trade--the right kind of trade--could be a benefit to us. The wrong kind of trade could destroy us. So. What kind of trade do you support, youngsters?"
(Jorge) Asteron Worldtraveller AC 17/09/15 -- CMD 21 -- HP 22/43 -- Rage 15/17 -- ENLARGED TO HUGE Monday February 11th, 2013 12:46:47 PM
Asteron does not take as a slight that Auntie laughs at his quest. He's actually used to it, as only another minotaur would know the weight of the prophesy he carries over his shoulders. "I do try my best not to be eaten, turned to stone, or killed in any other way, Auntie. But there must, just MUST, be a meaning to these" He points to his gold-colored horns.
He pauses, as he is changing the subject. "As for trade, I defer the topic to those more learned than I, but I would say that if it does not benefit both parties, then it is no trade at all, but a tax. And taxes are rightfully resented, no?"
The old kobold is as crafty with words as can be, but she seems to have the best interests of her tribe at heart. That means there might be a way to reach a compromise in which both the trade post and the kobolds get some benefit.
(Ezra, the Second) Yngvar Hefnd AC 14{18}/14{18}/12{16} -- CMD 13 -- HP 25/25 Monday February 11th, 2013 2:23:25 PM
Settling himself down onto one of the mats Yngvar smiles warmly, "I would hope it would be the right kind. We both live in this jungle, and I hope that a friendly relationship can be developed that will benefit your people and our organization.
We may be able to assist you with access to other markets, and if there are supplies that you would like, we may be able to help with getting them for you. We have already witnessed that together we can work towards protecting each other and fostering a mutual aid agreement would be good for you and us as well.
We have a sampling of gifts and trade goods that we brought with us. What would you like to see in a beneficial trade arrangement?"
(StevenVdB) Ragnarök HP 34/34 - AC25/24/19 / 24 vs AoO - CMD 24 / 26 vs Grapple Monday February 11th, 2013 3:51:39 PM
Quietly Ragnarök listens to the conversations at hand... As Auntie mocks Asteron's life's goal the Monk wonders what the meaning of life actually could be... not speaking up he thinks : "The Meaning of life is... to give life meaning... ?!"
When Auntie than asks what trade they are here for... the right... or the wrong... Ragnarök empties his head and refrains from jumping up saying : "[/b]I know I know!! the RIGHT one!!!"[/b]
Better to shut up and let the diplomats take charge...
While all these thoughts race through the Monk's head there's nothing the others see of all this. Not even a hint of a smile around his mouth. Somehow it appears the Monk is in deep thoughts... what thoughts luckily are hidden for all...
DM Kathy Monday February 11th, 2013 10:46:36 PM
"Hmm. Both parties," Auntie says to Asteron. "There are never only two parties in a trade, boy. Don't forget that."
She snorts softly at Ragnarök's reply. "Well, your heart's in the right place, anyway."
She regards Yngvar thoughtfully. "Mutual aid. Yes, that interests us. But I think...save your samples for another time. The others had samples, too. Ah, there you are."
From all outward appearances, the kobold who just entered the hut has earned a more respectful greeting than "there you are." He is quite tall, for a kobold, and wears elaborately embroidered robes and an impressive bone necklace. There is a prominent scar on his face, and he grips his spear with the air of somebody who knows how to use it. Cautiously, he inclines his head.
"This is Sskurhe," she tells you, "the current chief. A good boy, though he doesn't speak your language." She continues in Draconic Highlight to display spoiler: {"Sskurhe, these people represent the ones who built the camps. They are for trade, like we thought. Stand up straight."}
Sskurhe gives a little huff of annoyance, and draws himself up. Highlight to display spoiler: {"Auntie, before there can be trade, the others must be dealt with. And that is a matter of war, for the chief."}
Auntie fixes him with a stern look Highlight to display spoiler: { "We'll see about that!"} she replies.
(Pedro) Faust Havler Tavir'e AC 17/13/14 -- CMD 14 -- HP 27/27 // Wolfgang AC 17/15/14 -- CMD 13 -- HP 13/13 Monday February 11th, 2013 11:29:45 PM
Faust follows suit and accepts one of the seating places, he silently listen to what unfolds and pays special attention to the chief kobold as he enters the scene.
Faust decides wonders if the conversation in draconic was meant to be heard by them, and decides to let it clear that some of them do speak draconic: [in draconic] <"We didn't have a reason to mention this before, but not speaking our language doesn't make communication impossible, though not all of us speak the dragons' language.">
<"And I'm sorry for once again being a nosy one, but it wasn't clear whether you expected us to understand these last bits or not but...when you speak of these 'others'...do you mean the ones who destroy our campsites?">
(Sean) Toregan Dondarin AC 18/14/14 -- CMD 19 -- HP 29/29 Tuesday February 12th, 2013 11:24:17 AM I apologize for all of my absences, the snowstorm has been keeping me busy since Saturday, and school was being brutal for the week before. I'll try to do better with my posting from this point on, but I'm hesitant to make any promises.
Toregan remains where he is, letting those who are comfortable talking do so. Turns as the chief is introduced, and notices the exchange between Auntie and the chief with some interest.
(Ezra, the Second) Yngvar Hefnd AC 14{18}/14{18}/12{16} -- CMD 13 -- HP 25/25 Tuesday February 12th, 2013 1:00:44 PM
Yngvar shrugs at the refusal of their gifts and trade offers. He ignores the exchange in draconic, as he expected that Ka would have already mentioned that to 'Auntie'.
Yngvar is content to let Ragnarok lead the conversation at this point.
(StevenVdB) Ragnarök HP 34/34 - AC25/24/19 / 24 vs AoO - CMD 24 / 26 vs Grapple Tuesday February 12th, 2013 3:47:21 PM
[ooc maybe a little mixup but from DM Kathy's post, Rag said nothing out loud so Auntie - unless of she can read minds - did not heard a thing he thought. And Yngvar probably mistakes Faust for Rag... Rag's not talking lizard :-) and if he could... he's definetely not the diplomat around here!)
Ragnarök eyeballs one to the other frowning at the hissing and dreadful noises from the draconic language. Confident Faust will get things to turn out well, the walker just patiently sits and waits.
(Jorge) Asteron Worldtraveller AC 17/09/15 -- CMD 21 -- HP 22/43 -- Rage 15/17 -- ENLARGED TO HUGE Tuesday February 12th, 2013 6:10:01 PM "An interesting observation, Auntie, one which I will give a lot of thought to" responded the taur, shifting his weight. Then, as Sskurhe enters the hut, the minotaur bows deeply, as a sign of respect, before straightening his back to listen to what will be said.
DM Kathy Tuesday February 12th, 2013 11:55:23 PM
Both Auntie and Sskurhe turn to look at Faust when he speaks.
Highlight to display spoiler: {"There! What did I tell you?"} Auntie crows in Draconic. Highlight to display spoiler: {"They know about the ones destroying the camps."}
"Yes," she continues in Common. "We have spoken with the others, the ones who destroy the camps. They had many fine things to offer us, but we did not trust them."
She gives you a sharp look. "We did not trust you, either, eh? Perhaps you were kobold hunters! So we sent Ka and his band to ask you to help with the River God. And help you did. And now...." She sighs.
Highlight to display spoiler: {"Now there will be a funeral,"} she says. Sskurhe inclines his head. Highlight to display spoiler: { "Tonight," } he says.
"So," she says in Common. There will be a funeral tonight for Thyrykkh. You will meet the rest of the tribe. We will talk. And afterward, if you wish, we will tell you where to find the camp of the others."
(Pedro) Faust Havler Tavir'e AC 17/13/14 -- CMD 14 -- HP 27/27 // Wolfgang AC 17/15/14 -- CMD 13 -- HP 13/13 Wednesday February 13th, 2013 3:17:27 PM <"We fully understand the feeling. Our group was also anxious to meet your tribe. Among us there are many tales of man-eating kobolds, so the notice that there was a friendly tribe was both good news and an enormous surprise for us, we even spend quite some time discussing whether or not it was wise to trust the rumors.">, Faust keeps going in draconic so the chief can understand him as well.
<"We offer our sincere condolences for your fallen warrior. He fought bravely and we made sure his sacrifice wasn't in vain, though that doesn't reverse or necessarily alleviate the fact.">, he adds.
(StevenVdB) Ragnarök HP 34/34 - AC25/24/19 / 24 vs AoO - CMD 24 / 26 vs Grapple Wednesday February 13th, 2013 4:26:23 PM
Attending a funeral? Rag thinks... then he somehow dares to speak up al be it in common...
"Should you allow me to pay honour to your fallen one I will gladly attend to his funeral. I was standing next to him as he fell in combat... if however you prefer to say goodbye to him without us being present that too I will honour and understand."
(Jorge) Asteron Worldtraveller AC 17/09/15 -- CMD 21 -- HP 22/43 -- Rage 15/17 -- ENLARGED TO HUGE Wednesday February 13th, 2013 5:16:29 PM "I'd be honored to attend the funeral and pay my respects. A warrior who died defending his tribe should be honored." Asteron is brief, but his words are heartfelt. Not that he knew the kobold but, to him, he was a fellow warrior, someone who ought to be respected.
(Ezra, the Second) Yngvar Hefnd AC 14{18}/14{18}/12{16} -- CMD 13 -- HP 25/25 Wednesday February 13th, 2013 5:35:38 PM
Yngvar nods in agreement. He's been in thought, it seemed like years ago, but was it only a couple of months since he had spent a night in a kobold's lunchbox with a half eaten elf for company? The markings of these kobolds were different...
"I hope that our actions will set us apart from those others you met. Just as your tribe has treated us differently than other tribes would."
(Sean) Toregan Dondarin AC 18/14/14 -- CMD 19 -- HP 29/29 Wednesday February 13th, 2013 9:12:46 PM "He fought w-well." Toregan says as the information for the funeral is presented. "If i c-can.... I w-would be honored t-to attend and..... to pay my respects."
DM Kathy Wednesday February 13th, 2013 11:36:51 PM
It is difficult to read kobolds' expressions, but Auntie looks moved by your requests. "Of course you will attend," she says softly. "We would have it no other way." More briskly, she adds, "Kobolds from other tribes will be arriving today for the funeral, so after it is done, we will have a meeting of sorts. And Auntie will convince those young rascals of the best course of action. Later."
She waves a hand, "Now, get out and let an old woman rest. Ka will see to you." She waves a hand at Sskurhe. Highlight to display spoiler: {"You, too. Out!"} she says in Draconic.
When you exit the tent, you see the kobolds moving about their village, much as you saw this morning. They still seem inclined to stare at you. Ka gives you a brief tour, then settles down with you near one of the fires. Two kobold women work there, cooking some kind of stew. They stare at you for a while, then go back to their task.
[OOC: You basically have a whole day before the funeral, so you can do what you want. If you need to go back to the boat, you can; if you want to go off into the jungle, you can do that, too, although it may be dangerous.]
(Ezra, the Second) Yngvar Hefnd AC 14{18}/14{18}/12{16} -- CMD 13 -- HP 25/25 d20+11=18 Thursday February 14th, 2013 10:15:38 AM
Yngvar will take a look at the various huts to see how they are built. And if there are any signs of maintenance or repair needed, he will see what he can do to assist.
[ooc]Assuming that the huts are mostly wood/grass, Yngvar should be able to use craft: carpentry rolled 18.[/ooc]
(Jorge) Asteron Worldtraveller AC 17/09/15 -- CMD 21 -- HP 22/43 -- Rage 15/17 -- ENLARGED TO HUGE d20=15 ; Thursday February 14th, 2013 2:01:13 PM
Asteron decides to take a walk, trying to make himself useful. Being an apprentice weaponsmith, he looks for any kobolds that could be making weapons and, using hand signals, offers his help. At least a bellows or a load of coal he can be useful for. If he does not find any weapon makers, he volunteers to carry the heaviest loads that anyone around needs moved. - - - - - Craft(weaponsmith) aid another: d20+5= 20. Success!
(StevenVdB) Ragnarök HP 34/34 - AC25/24/19 / 24 vs AoO - CMD 24 / 26 vs Grapple Thursday February 14th, 2013 4:05:13 PM
Ragnarök spends the day observing the Kobold behaviour. He finds it interesting to see how they mourn their dead, how they say thanks to life and how they prey. He himself finds comfort in meditating near the wilderness edge.
Somehow he gets drawn to the shadows cast by the trees... how he would love to dance from one shadow to the other one day...
(Pedro) Faust Havler Tavir'e AC 17/13/14 -- CMD 14 -- HP 27/27 // Wolfgang AC 17/15/14 -- CMD 13 -- HP 13/13 Thursday February 14th, 2013 9:59:50 PM
Faust uses his time to study the tribe, their apparent customs, technological level, looks for sign of magical advancement...etc, anything that seems worthy of note (especially things that go against books or folk lore of kobolds) he does so and takes notes of such at the end of his spellbook.
He attempts to talk to any kobold curious enough to approach about anything that doesn't seem taboo, such as what they usually eat, if they are mostly hunters or gatherers, tribal customs and the such.
If the situation seems appropriate, he'll also perform some simple magical tricks (through Prestidigitation) to both show something amusing to kobolds that approach (potentially breaking the ice) and to aid in his research whether they know of magic be it arcane or divine.
DM Kathy Friday February 15th, 2013 12:28:03 AM Yngvar examines the kobolds' huts. They are made from tightly-woven grass, framed in lightweight wood. All have some kind of skin or blanket hung at the entrance, and most have some kind of waterproof skin draped over the top, presumably to help keep the rain off. You do not see any huts with fireplaces or fire rings; apparently, the fires are all communal, and outdoors. The huts are in fairly good repair, although you are able to assist with re-waterproofing some of the hides.
Asteron expresses a willingness to do heavy lifting, and he is soon put to work bringing materials to build a bier for Thyrykkh, the fallen kobold. The body is, presumably, still with the kobold's family, but the bier is being constructed in a clearing a few hundred feet from the town. Asteron is able to carry at least four times the wood an average kobold can carry, so his help is appreciated.
Faust studies the tribe, and shows them a little magic. You ask them about what kind of magic they have, and learn that the shaman can do magic. The villagers are a little fuzzy on exactly what kind of magic and how it works, but they seem very impressed with their shaman and the power he wields. You learn that the kobolds are largely meat-eaters, although they supplement their diets with some plants and fruits. Their main sources of meat are fish, birds, and small mammals such as rabbits.
Ragnarök is interested in learning how the kobolds mourn their dead. You find the preparations throughout the day to be depressingly mundane. A party of kobolds goes to the river to fish; other kobolds bring in fruit and begin cutting it up. There does seem to be a lot of food being prepared, and when other kobolds, from other villages, begin arriving, you begin to see why. Still, the event could be any kind of gathering, from the way the kobolds are going about it. That is, until evening.
Evening comes, and the kobolds grow somber. They gather near one of the huts, and one kobold, wearing an elaborate headdress, begins a mournful, singing chant. "That is shaman," Ka whispers to you. The other kobolds pick up the chant.
From out of the hut, a group of kobolds emerges, bearing a litter. Thyrykkh is laid out on it, in what is presumably his finest clothes. Ragnarök realizes that he hasn't seen any of these kobolds today; it seems the family has been in seclusion. Perhaps that is part of the mourning process.
Still chanting, the kobolds make their way to the bier, the litter-bearers in the center of the procession. When they reach the bier, the kobolds fan out into a circle while the litter-bearers place Thyrykkh upon it. Several kobolds come forward, placing a small token or memento on the litter next to Thyrykkh's body. Several kobolds bring flowers. Ka brings teeth and a claw from the River God. Several kobolds speak in remembrance, praising Thyrykkh as a good son, a loyal friend, and a brave warrior.
It is difficult to read kobold expressions, but everyone seems sad. You do not see any tears. You're not sure whether kobolds are physiologically incapable of shedding them, or whether crying is simply not something they do in public.
Then the shaman speaks, calling on the blessings of the gods. Several kobolds come forward to light the bier--you're pretty sure they're the same ones that carried it. The flames begin burning brightly, the smoke spiraling upward--presumably carrying Thyrykkh's soul with it.
(Ezra, the Second) Yngvar Hefnd AC 14{18}/14{18}/12{16} -- CMD 13 -- HP 25/25 Friday February 15th, 2013 12:43:01 PM
Seeing the memento's, Yngvar reaches around and pulls two crossbow bolts from his quiver. Stepping forward, if allowed, Yngvar approaches the bier and carefully places the two bolts near the warriors body. "<He fought bravely for his people, and he shall be remembered for this.>" Yngvar then bows his head in respect and returns to his seat.
(Jorge) Asteron Worldtraveller AC 17/09/15 -- CMD 21 -- HP 22/43 -- Rage 15/17 -- ENLARGED TO HUGE Friday February 15th, 2013 2:38:44 PM
Being of the same mind as Yngvar, Asteron produces two polished hematites, worth 10 gp each. Although the taur does not speak draconic, he does add in common: "An honor to have fought by your side, brave one. Definitely an honor." He then places the semiprecious stones on the bier, and steps back, falling silent.
(StevenVdB) Ragnarök HP 34/34 - AC25/24/19 / 24 vs AoO - CMD 24 / 26 vs Grapple Friday February 15th, 2013 4:16:20 PM
Watching Asteron and Yngvar pay tribute to the fallen one Ragnarok follows suit.
"It was but a fragment of your life that we had the chance to share but I am proud to have known you and thankful for the chance to fight along side. Why weep when it is just your body that leaves the Wold. Your spirit is set free to fly towards peace... Your bravery shall be remembered in tales to come."
Turning to his family (or at least the ones that were in the tent mourning for him) Ragnarok adds : " Thank you for giving us a chance to get to know him... "
(Pedro) Faust Havler Tavir'e AC 17/13/14 -- CMD 14 -- HP 27/27 // Wolfgang AC 17/15/14 -- CMD 13 -- HP 13/13 Sunday February 17th, 2013 6:10:29 PM
[OOC: Totally making an ass-pull here, couldn't find anything about how drow mourn, so I thought of something similar to greeks. If it's something, else, that something else is what Faust will do.]
Faust also walks up to the bier, placing two gold coins on the fallen kobold as per Drow's tradition, <"I barely knew you, but from the little I could see, you were a brave warrior, dedicated to your tribe and cause. Have these coins for the toll, while we remain here and make sure your sacrifice is not forgotten and does not pass in vain.>", after that, he bows and goes back to his place.
DM Kathy Sunday February 17th, 2013 11:00:16 PM
Each of you has a small gift for the fallen kobold, and each of you speaks--some aloud, and some so that only Thyrykkh can hear you.
After the pyre has been burning for a while, some of the kobolds begin walking back to the village. Among the first to go are the older kobolds, Auntie among them, presumably seeking a more comfortable place for stiff joints and aching bones. Bit by bit, the other kobolds begin trickling back to the village. Members of Thyrykkh's family stay, as to a few kobolds armed with long sticks, blankets, and buckets of sand. You realize that these kobolds are probably here to ensure that the pyre doesn't set the whole jungle ablaze, although it seems unlikely at the moment. There doesn't seem to be any rule about when to leave; each person seems to leave when they feel the time is right.
Eventually, the entire tribe is gathered around two of the larger cookfires, and the feast begins. The fare is simple, but good, and there is plenty of it. The kobolds eat sitting on the ground, on mats or blankets, using bowls and plates and cups made of wood or bone. The mood begins somber, but lightens as the meal goes on. People share amusing or touching stories about Thyrykkh, and there is laughter. And probably smiles, but reading kobold faces is difficult.
After the meal, Ka appears by your side. "Now chiefs and shaman and Auntie do--meet," he says in his halting Common. "They want you, too. Come."
He leads the way to another fire, on the other side of the village from where the feast, or wake, continues on. Auntie is here, seated on an upended log, wrapped in many shawls. Sskurhe is seated nearby, looking--well, maybe apprehensive. Hard to say. The impressive-looking shaman sits opposite Auntie, looking across the fire at her. A few other kobolds, looking similar to Sskurhe, are also seated here.
Ka bows and says in Draconic, Highlight to display spoiler: {"Here are the outland warriors, as you requested."} He gives you an encouraging nod and departs.
Auntie speaks next. She repeats everything in Common and Draconic, switching smoothly from one to the other, so that both you and the chiefs will understand. "You have proven you courage by slaying the River God. You have proven your wisdom by approaching our tribe in peace and friendship. And you have proven your loyalty by honoring your fallen comrade." She reaches down, into a small leather bag sitting on the ground next to her. "The elder women and I have made these for you. They show you as a friend to the K'tthhykk, and they have some magic about them as well." She gives each of you a tribal necklace, consisting of bones, beads, teeth, and charms strung on a leather cord. You're pretty sure the teeth came from the River God.
[OOC: Each of you has been given a Kobold necklace. They are Fate items, meaning they cannot be sold in the Catacombs. Each necklace functions as a Lesser Strand of Prayer beads, except that each bead can be used only once. Even after the beads have been used up, the necklace will still identify you as a friend to the K'tthhykk, and will still be a Fate item.]
(Jorge) Asteron Worldtraveller AC 17/09/15 -- CMD 21 -- HP 22/43 -- Rage 15/17 -- ENLARGED TO HUGE Monday February 18th, 2013 1:08:05 PM
Asteron bows to Auntie as he receives the gift. "Your gift is received in the spirit in which it is given" he says ceremoniously, as he puts it on. "I am very honored to be considered a friend to the K'tthhykk"
Asteron knows there is more to it than this, but he decides to let others do the bargaining.
(StevenVdB) Ragnarök HP 34/34 - AC25/24/19 / 24 vs AoO - CMD 24 / 26 vs Grapple Monday February 18th, 2013 1:20:05 PM
Ragnarök accepts the necklace with a little bow to Auntie and the others : "I shall wear this with pride." , and with that said, he puts the necklace around his neck in a way that the 'River God' teeth hang over his tanned chest. If only the thing would have had whiter teeth the would certainly look magnificent... now it 'only' looks cool!
(Ezra, the Second) Yngvar Hefnd AC 14{18}/14{18}/12{16} -- CMD 13 -- HP 25/25 Monday February 18th, 2013 4:45:44 PM ",the gift of the K'tthhykk will be a reminder to me of your people, and what we have accomplished together, as well as the dreams yet to be brought real.>" Yngvar takes a moment to study each of the charms before placing it over his own head, allowing the charms to hang on his chest.
DM Kathy Monday February 18th, 2013 11:07:28 PM
After your necklaces are given out, the discussions begin in earnest. This part of the meeting is all in Draconic, but I'm going to assume that between Auntie and your companions, everybody at least gets the gist of what is being said.
One of the chiefs, who has been shuffling restlessly through Auntie's short ceremony, says, "This is all very well, and these heroes are brave. But allying ourselves with these outlanders can bring only trouble!"
"Indeed," says the shaman, looking at you with unblinking eyes. "The so-called noble races love nothing more than to hunt kobolds. What will this trading bring, other than more weapons to slaughter us?"
Auntie snorts derisively. "Don't you take that tone with me, Ssthokh! Shaman, indeed! Why, I remember a young kobold who ate so many green gooseberries that he threw up on his naming day, in front of the whole tribe!"
The shaman squirms a little.
"And Ssar!" Auntie continues, turning to the chief who had first spoken. "You've no more sense now than you did back when you took your father's boat without permission. Swept downstream, wasn't it? And you had to be rescued, soaking wet and crying for your mama."
Ssar is apparently made of sterner stuff than the shaman, because he only clears his throat. "Be that as it may--"
"It's no use, Ssar," Sskurhe sounds...amused? "Auntie is determined that we shall participate in the trade. And who can sway Auntie once she has made up her mind?"
"You always were a good boy, Sskurhe," Auntie says approvingly. "Now, listen, all of you. These humans will trade with each other whether we will it or no. That outpost isn't going anywhere, and neither is the town. We can gain the upper hand over the Ss'Hathk by cooperating with the humans, because when have the Ss'Hathk cooperated with anyone? And we can sell things to the traders, to get weapons of our own.
"But we can't do any of these things," she continues, "if the destroyers succeed in destroying the trader-camps. These nice young folks want to stop the destroyers, and I say we should help them."
"Outlanders can be a dangerous influence," says another chief, one who has not spoken yet.
"I suppose you'd know all about that, Kthyss," says Auntie. "I remember the time you and your brother--"
"--but," Kthyss adds hastily, "they are probably not as dangerous as the Ss'Hathk. Or, for that matter, the destroyers. So I do not oppose an alliance, but I advise caution."
"Yes, caution," says the shaman.
Auntie nods. "Very well," she says. "Since our village is the closest to the trader-camp, I suppose it is only fair that we bear the responsibility of contact with the outlanders. Those from other villages can remain hidden, and unknown, if they choose."
The chiefs seem ready to agree to this, although there is more discussion.
(Jorge) Asteron Worldtraveller AC 17/09/15 -- CMD 21 -- HP 22/43 -- Rage 15/17 -- ENLARGED TO HUGE Tuesday February 19th, 2013 12:35:27 PM
Asteron knows this is not the time for him to speak. He's done his part, the one he is good at, and now others must do theirs... diplomacy. He sits on his haunches, upright, moving as little as possible. Yet, whenever a kobold loots in his direction, he smiles and nods lightly in response.
So, Auntie is in our favor. Good. And Sskurhe seems not to be against us, also good. The shaman and this... Kthyss... are another story entirely. So we must cultivate Auntie's good graces, and keep them if we are to have any success in our mission.
A mission that will include more killing, no doubt.
(StevenVdB) Ragnarök HP 34/34 - AC25/24/19 / 24 vs AoO - CMD 24 / 26 vs Grapple Tuesday February 19th, 2013 5:04:54 PM
Rag just sits and listens to the Kobolds bickering. Amused as he is though it doesn't show on his face he is.
(Sean) Toregan Dondarin AC 18/14/14 -- CMD 19 -- HP 29/29 Tuesday February 19th, 2013 5:23:45 PM
Toregan waits as the discussion continues, not having anything to add to the discussions. He glances at Yngvar and Faust, wondering if they'll point out something he might've missed in the discussion.
(Pedro) Faust Havler Tavir'e AC 17/13/14 -- CMD 14 -- HP 27/27 // Wolfgang AC 17/15/14 -- CMD 13 -- HP 13/13 d20+1=11 ; Tuesday February 19th, 2013 6:49:58 PM
Faust repeats the message both in draconic and common so everyone understands, though he starts with draconic for obvious reasons.
"It is very true that there are many from our side who hunt and kill your kin; however, let us not forget now that there are many of your kin who hunts and kill our people. I care not for who started it or what reason either side has for doing such, this opportunity we have here is so rare that if it were up to me I'd dry rivers and level mountains if needed just so we can establish a relationship profitable to both sides."
"And indeed, I'm sure our side will be glad to provide you with weapons, knowledge and perhaps even manpower in trade for tribal items - you'd be surprised by how many people collect these -, guidance in this jungle or the simple knowledge that the path is secured and safe due to friendly kobolds keeping dangerous monsters and...things...away.", he adds, trying to ensure that he doesn't come off too cocky or aggressive.
Diplomacy (+1): 11
DM Kathy Wednesday February 20th, 2013 2:13:40 AM
Most of you remain silent as the kobolds argue, but Faust puts in a good word for your side. It doesn't seem to go over very well; the kobolds all turn and look at you, but don't reply to what you have said.
After a moment, Auntie says, "I think we are in agreement. Ka will show these warriors where the destroying ones can be found. And after that--after that, we will speak again, I think."
She switches exclusively to Common to conclude, "It is getting late. You are welcome to camp in the village for the night, and in the morning Ka will show you how to reach the camp of those who destroy. Agreed?"
Assuming you agree to her terms, there are any number of places you can spend the night. The kobold huts are pretty small for you, and anyway they are all occupied. But there are several fires out in the open, and it is no hardship to spread your bedrolls near them and fall asleep under the stars.
The night is peaceful and uneventful, and you awaken in the morning to the sounds of the kobolds moving about their camp, and the smell of breakfast cooking.
(Ezra, the Second) Yngvar Hefnd AC 14{18}/14{18}/12{16} -- CMD 13 -- HP 25/25 Wednesday February 20th, 2013 10:28:39 AM
Yngvar checks that the mule has feed and wataer and settles his bedroll down near one of the smaller fires, allowing the fire to burn down to coals. "Best if one of us is on watch anyway, I'll take the first."
That said, Yngvar pulls out his journal and starts recording the events of the last few days.
(Jorge) Asteron Worldtraveller AC 17/09/15 -- CMD 21 -- HP 22/43 -- Rage 15/17 -- ENLARGED TO HUGE Wednesday February 20th, 2013 11:12:11 AM
Asteron takes the second watch. He does not expect anything untoward, but better safe than sorry, he thinks.
When he wakes up, he starts looking for his companions... and for breakfast.
(Pedro) Faust Havler Tavir'e AC 17/13/14 -- CMD 14 -- HP 27/27 // Wolfgang AC 17/15/14 -- CMD 13 -- HP 13/13 Wednesday February 20th, 2013 1:18:32 PM "Last watch before dawn as usual, gotta make my blood feel useful."
"But I was pleasantly impressed by how everything went...even though my words seemed to rub them the wrong way. Just wish I had read more about kobolds, came here expecting only murdering ones, never crossed my mind to meet a friendly variety.", he says, reading over his notes about the tribe one last time and thinking about the following day.
(Sean) Toregan Dondarin AC 18/14/14 -- CMD 19 -- HP 29/29 Wednesday February 20th, 2013 3:38:16 PM "I'll take the third watch. No reason to break a useful habit after all."[b] Toregan chuckles at Faust's comment as he sets up a place near the fire. [b]"You're telling me. When we first came over here, Yngvar and I were attacked by man-eating kobolds, then saved by a different one. I was hoping that the one who saved us was a part of this tribe, but it doesn't look like he was."
(StevenVdB) Ragnarök HP 34/34 - AC25/24/19 / 24 vs AoO - CMD 24 / 26 vs Grapple d20+10=16 ; Wednesday February 20th, 2013 3:52:50 PM
During the talks Ragnarök intently listens to Faust speaking for the group... "Way to go lad!" the Monk thinks to himself, "You got them there! Hah! 1-0 advantage Faust!! "
As the meeting is disbanded and everyone is looking for a place to sleep Ragnarök seeks a nice spot under the clear night sky. Listening to the soothing rustle of the trees, the occasional night crawler, the howling of distant hunters... he quickly falls into a deep sleep. Rag will team up with one of the magic wielders. (Perception 16)
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