Zazu asks Siggy if he came from Kovri and if so what the conditions were like there as well as what kind of reception their caravan can expect. He then tries to figure out the racial makeup of the caravan.
The caravan is truly mixed. Among them are representatives from the noble and ignoble races alike. Taurs, Beast folk, humans, dwarves, gnomes, halflings, elves, half-elves, orcs, half-orcs, surface drow.
Myre is not thrilled about the team’s newest acquisition but figures she’ll get over it. She pays attention to the exchange between Zazu and Siggy.
Ash tells the captain to pass along thanks to the commander. She remarks that she hopes she won’t be penalized for helping the caravan and that one day her group might be able to return the favor.
Siggy tells Zazu that the people of Covri were nice enough and happy to take his coin but that he was just passing through. He suggests they try to keep the orcs out of sight until they can prove to the town they can be good neighbors.
Zazu suggests that their settlement should be called Freedomvilletown and that maybe it should exist on the border of the Culverwood or even into the Culverwood.
The group of refugees get several guards of the fort as escorts on the trip. It’s relatively short, about an hour and a half, and while the captain spends the time amiably discussing how things went with the Commander the rest are mostly quiet and frequently eye the orcs with suspicion. One goes on ahead to let the village know they’re arrival time.
At Kovri there’s a bit of a welcoming committee. An important looking elven woman in regal robes stands in the road hands folded and a pleasant smile frozen on her face. Two functionaries stand behind her, one holding a ream of paper and a quill, the other in soft leather armor and looking disdainful. Both are elven, but you see behind them lots of hustle and bustle in the town and at least half of the visible residents are non-elven.
The woman sees the party approach and holds her hands outspread. ”Welcome to Kovri dear travelers. We know you….” she trails off and stares at the orcs at a loss for words. The guy with the quill drops it in shock. The disdainful fellow reaches for his sword before catching himself and going back to looking disdainful.
With a small shake to recover herself she resumes. ”We know you are hungry and tired after your long trip to escape the evil orcs.” She blanches a little. Presumably this is a prepared speech that wasn’t ready for the possibility of orcish refugees. ”We here in the Emerald Kingdom pride ourselves on accepting the hungry, the tired, and those escaping oppression. We have done all we can to prepare sleeping spaces and food for your group.”
She stops, apparently finished with her prepared section and not sure what else to say. An awkward silence stretches out. The functionary behind her coughs, then bends down to pick up his quill. Captain Silverleaf looks amused.
Myre (Carl) AC: 13/12/11 HP: 21/24 CMD: 14 Monday May 18th, 2020 8:54:52 AM
Myre smiles. "Yes, we certainly did escape the evil orcs, as did these women those orcs oppressed as much as us. Your hospitality is welcome, and we'll do all we can to make it as short-lived as possible."
Zazu (AC18, HP18/18) and Boyo the bunny (AC15, HP9/9) (Cayzle) Monday May 18th, 2020 12:24:14 PM
At first Zazu feels too shy to speak up, but a little wriggling bundle of cuteness pushes confidence telempathically. "Okay, Boyo, you're right, I can do this, she whispers very very faintly.
Then Zazu answers, in elvish and common: "My lady, when Parnoth ruled, elves were slaves in the Emerald Kingdom, and I was a child-slave in those days. Now elves are free here, and welcoming to others who have escaped from captivity. Twice I have been liberated, and the Emerald Kingdom has become a refuge, not a prison."
"Thank you, from my heart and the hearts of these former slaves, for your generosity. The warriors at Fort Silence were kind, helpful, and brave. We are forever in their debt."
Zazu, nodding to the scribe, says, "I am Zazu, child of Klarents and Mary, native of the Great Culverwood." Introducing all the company -- indeed, everyone whose name can be recalled -- Zazu does not fail to name the orcs he knows. "All of these people have escaped from bondage. Some will want to go home, others to make their own way in the Wold, and the rest have decided to settle here in our own new village, if that's okay."
Zazu reinforces Myre's message that the group does not intend to impose for longer than necessary, although we are grateful for the welcome.
[OOC: Friends, take a look at the map of the Emerald Kingdom. We might look for a less inhabited portion of the realm. Maybe we can strike off northwest from Kovri, maybe even to the river, to look for a site. I think we hero types should go a-looking, and when we find a good spot for a settlement, come back for our new villagers.]
Niall (JonL) HP: 18/24 AC: 17/11/16 Monday May 18th, 2020 7:25:00 PM
Niall is glad that all are accepted even with some trepidation.
Ash (RobC) -- AC 12/12/10 -- CMD 13 -- HP 25/25 Monday May 18th, 2020 7:46:47 PM "We come bearing orcs!" Ash grins to the welcoming committee. No doubt Kovri has had encounters with the local orc tribes so their reaction to these ones comes as no surprise to her.
"It's wonderful to see some more friendly faces. The elves at the Fort spoke of the kindness of Kovri. I'm Ash by the way" She steps forward to shake some hands "Let's see to getting these people somewhere to rest and then we can talk more privately. As my friends have said, we don't want to be a burden to your town. In fact, we are interested in establishing our own settlement around here somewhere. Perhaps we could discuss it over supper?"
Ash also enquires as to whether the people of Kovri could help render some medical assistance. The freed people have cuts and scrapes that still need to be treated.
----------------------- OOC: Might be worth asking the locals first as to areas they would suggest we check out. They'd have a better idea on the natural resources and dangers and could also let us know areas that have already been claimed by others. We could get a map, get them to circle potential areas, and then we go explore them?
Lothlo (WillD) -- AC: 19/15/14, HP: 28/28, CMD: 20 Monday May 18th, 2020 9:11:45 PM
Lothlo shakes their hosts hand. Yes, as Zazu and Ash mentioned, your thoughts on where a good place to settle might be would be appreciated. I actually was thinking on our trip here, I believe I heard much of this land is still untamed, is there a location that locating a new settlement would help improve the safety of those traveling through the land? I'm sure others would more quickly embrace a new settlement if they saw that it was making the land safer for everyone and allowed for faster travel.
Naithi (JamesD) AC: 19/14/17 HP: 18/18 , CMD = 16 Monday May 18th, 2020 11:26:46 PM
I scratch my rabbits ear my dog snuggles in close. My Lady. I say, imitating Zazu to the best of my ability. Thank you for your kindness and hospitality. My new friend and I, that is to say, those of us who organized and executed the escape, want to help out in any way we can. Perhaps we could help to scout out possible locations for a new settlement. We would be open to any suggestions you might have.
ooc: Naithi is going to make a harness, restraints, and saddle for the locust so that when it hatches it will be restrained until trained. Once trained she will have the necessary grear ride it out use it as a mule. I think we have agreed that it will not be used in combat and most likely will be given to the new town to use either as protection or a beast of burden. Cayzle, please correct me if I am wrong on that.
Sigismund Brauer (Tanner) -- HP 35 | AC 18/11/16 | CMD 20 | F+6/R+3/W+0 Monday May 18th, 2020 11:56:28 PM
Sigismund stays quiet during the greetings, but has a leery look on his face. He consults with the party afterward. "Hey, I'm thinkin' that maybe leavin' the orcs here ain't the greatest plan. I think the orcs're gonna need some supervisin' so nothin' happens that's... inconvenient." He looks left and right. "It'd sure be rotten if there was trouble'n leaders weren't around."
DM Mitch Tuesday May 19th, 2020 5:31:28 AM Myre tells the woman in the welcome wagon that they and the orc women escaped the oppression of evil orcs and that they’ll make their presence as short lived as possible.
Zazu feels a little shy at first but he is buoyed by Boyo’s presence and he respectfully thanks the speaker and makes introductions of both himself and everyone else he can. He then explains that while all in the caravan have been recently liberated some may decide to settle here, others may decide to make their way in the Wold, but a contingent of the caravan would like to settle in their own village if that is okay. He reinforces Myre’s message that they don’t intend to stay that long but in a more diplomatic tone.
Niall is glad they are accepted albeit with a little trepidation.
Ash makes her own introductions to the welcoming committee echoing the statements that Zazu and Myre made about not intending to stay long and wanting to settle their own town suggesting they might be able to discuss it more, privately, over dinner after they’ve gotten some of the folks from the caravan settled.
Lothlo shakes the hosts hands also remarking the group’s intention to settle and asks their hosts if there is a place where a settlement could secure a route to make traveling safer.
Naithi tries to be diplomatic with the welcoming committee too and suggests that the party could scout locations for themselves to settle.
Siggy waits until after the welcoming committee has given the party their welcome message and suggests that it might make sense for the orcs to be supervised so that a misunderstanding doesn’t occur between them and their hosts.
Zazu’s statement causes the woman to actually sputter. ”You can’t just waltz in here and move in like you own the place! There’s… paperwork and rules and…”
The others mentioning consulting her seems to mollify her some. She gives the offered hand a perfunctory shake. Drawing herself up she states haughtily. ”I am but a humble mayor of this town. If you wish to make your homes in our kingdom then you will have to talk to the Council; they get final say in the use of land and will have the proper forms for you to fill out should they decide to allow it. Their representatives will be here in the morning, until then you can enjoy what hospitality we have.”
She eyes the group. ”I’m sure at least some of you have somewhere you’d rather return to. Should you wish to arrange transport to wherever you call home or split from the group come to my office in the morning. Now if you’ll excuse me it is late and I am tired. Everything can wait until morning.”
She withdraws, her two assistants shadowing her. Captain Silverleaf notices someone and waves him over - the guard that was sent on ahead. She punches him lightly. ”You did that on purpose.” she accuses, grinning. ”What? I just forgot to mention everyone’s race. That’s not important right?” he says, grinning back.
Turning back to the group she tells them. ”We’d best be heading back. Normally we’d stay the night but I suspect your group is going to fill up every free bed in town and still not be enough. The Mayor is right though, the people you need to convince are the council. Make a good impression on them and you’ll be able to get yourselves a nice bit of land to settle on. Tick them off and they may deny you a chance to settle here at all. They’re bureaucrats, but reasonable one I’m sure you’ll be fine. Good luck.”
With that she’s off. The townsfolk have done their best to prepare food and lodging, but they usually only have a dozen or so refugees at once. With almost 150 people they’re a little overwhelmed. The food isn’t quite enough to feed everyone and you have to break into your food supplies again and they only have about 25 bunks in the houses reserved for refugees. You might be able to beg, borrow, or buy more beds but it’ll take some effort (IE skill checks, Dip or a profession: merchant check to convince people to give you extra beds, the more checks and the higher the checks the more people you manage to talk to and convince and the cheaper you get beds you buy)
There are merchants in town, though apparently more will arrive in the morning. You can buy and sell things, but there isn’t enough here to offload the giant pile of sellable goods you got from the orc camp (Catacombs are available, but for plot reasons you can’t just sell items that make up your 20k town fund there, you’ll have to find some way to transport it to the big city. It's made up for art objects and goods none of which are worth more then a few hundred gold, most far less, so it'll take time and effort to unload it all. Only about 2k of it is in actual cash.)
Zazu (AC18, HP18/18) and Boyo the bunny (AC15, HP9/9) (Cayzle) Tuesday May 19th, 2020 4:38:15 PM
"25 beds is fine," says Zazu, thinking that the wounded and exhausted can use those, but everybody else can sleep out of doors, in wagons or on the ground. Zazu himself grew up as much out of doors as in, so that seems okay.
Zazu looks around at what needs doing to help set up a wagon circle and camp for the ones who don't get beds. He pitches in to help with all the chores.
Afterwards, he works on his spellbook, checking the binding and adding a few blank pages. Soon he hopes to have the riches he needs to do things like add spells, craft traps, and scribe spells.
Niall (JonL) HP: 18/24 AC: 17/11/16 Tuesday May 19th, 2020 7:15:32 PM
"we have all been sleeping without beds for some time now, another few nights will not harm us. as Zazu said, let the injured and most in need have the beds." Niall adds in and will expend the rest of his lay on hands to heal the next most injured people.
"Thank you again for your hospitality."
Ash (RobC) -- AC 12/12/10 -- CMD 13 -- HP 25/25 d20=18 ; d20=20 ; Tuesday May 19th, 2020 7:31:43 PM "Miss Mayor, of course. We don't wish to cause you any unnecessary bother and will happily meet with the council - if they will see us - in the morning. Once again, we can't thank you enough for your hospitality" Ash gives a slight bow as the mayor departs. If she's learnt one thing, it's don't tick off the person in charge.
She's in agreement with Zazu. Wounded and exhausted to get the more comfortable beds. She hasn't had a chance to meet every single one of the people so tries to walk about them and take stock. Are there any elderly? Any children? If there were any children kept as slaves then helping the orc women fit in may be all that much harder.
"If we're going to go look for some land then we need to consider how the town will feel about hosting these people for a while. They might be happier to accommodate them if we had something to offer. Perhaps Codru and the others can see if there are any skills that can be put to use? Even something as simple as chopping wood might be enough to buy some good will. The orc women are capable weavers, aren't they?"
Ash has no problem speaking to anyone she sees on the street. She starts by thanking them for their generosity, complimenting them on their town, and then swoops in with requesting additional aid in the form of beds or food. It's all blended together very tactfully but gets the message across.
Highlight to display spoiler: {Just checking: does that mean that there is 2,000gp worth of gold that we can share among the party to do some shopping? Ash will only be looking for some ink to scribe some spells into her spellbook. Total cost is around 200gp}
Lothlo (WillD) -- AC: 19/15/14, HP: 28/28, CMD: 20 d20+1=7 ; d20+5=6 ; Tuesday May 19th, 2020 9:02:23 PM
Lothlo rejoins the group after their welcoming. With a group this size, we will want to start hunting down any extra beds right away. I don't even know how many spare beds a down this size would have to begin with.
Lothlo tries his hardest to try to get a few more beds, though it seems to be an uphill battle. Still, every little bit helps.
Diplomacy: 7 Prof Inn Keeper: 6
Naithi (JamesD) AC: 19/14/17 HP: 18/18 , CMD = 16 d20+1=2 ; d20+1=2 ; Tuesday May 19th, 2020 10:37:55 PM
I decide to help secure beds for the others and try my hand at bartering. I look around for the best place to start....
Mmmmm....Camalayaas fur is so soft and warm...and Fizzgig's steady breathing are so relaxing... Before I can decide where to start exhaustion over take me and I quickly fall asleep.
Sigismund Brauer (Tanner) -- HP 35 | AC 18/11/16 | CMD 20 | F+6/R+3/W+0 Wednesday May 20th, 2020 2:57:56 AM "With this many folk it might be a better idea to talk with the local bakers'n millers. Flour sacks make fer good pallets when beds ain't open, and they're cheap. 'Specially when we won't be here too long. Anything that let's us step softly 'round Kovri is gonna help us. We don't need angry townsfolk tellin' the bureaucrats this group is made of miscreants'n varlets." Sigismund hefts his hammer. "Welp, I'm gonna go see the local tavern'n find out where they brew. You know what else is cheap? Barley porridge. Brewers make a ton of it. They sell some to really poor folk, but most of it gets tossed or fed to animals. It ain't tasty, but it will fill yer belly'n keep you strong." He perks up and smiles to the group. "Anyone wanna come to get a drink?"
DM Mitch d100=76 ; d100=15 ; d100=61 ; d100=14 ; d100=67 ; d100=5 ; d100=65 ; d100=47 ; d100=7 ; d100=91 ; d100=77 ; d100=23 ; d100=90 ; d100=7 ; d20+11=21 ; d20+10=19 ; Wednesday May 20th, 2020 7:47:39 AM Zazu thinks the number of beds is fine and tries to see to it that those who are most injured get the beds. He also tries to help with chores and set up a wagon circle camp for those who don’t have beds. He then starts working on his spellbook.
Niall agrees with Zazu about bed allocation and then uses his lay upon hands to further tend the injured.
Ash tells the mayor that they don’t wish to cause them unnecessary bother and that they will happily meet with the council if they will see them. She further thanks the mayor and agrees with the others about the bed. She tries to take stock of the age demographics of the caravan. There are some elderly in the group, a few orcish women and slaves, children as well, all orcish who came with their mothers. After that she tries to figure out a way to make the town feel better about hosting them for a while by way of trade or barter perhaps. She pretty much is friendly with anyone she meets on the street. She manages to secure another four beds.
Lothlo tries his hand at securing extra beds and gets one.
Naithi was intending to also try to secure more beds but she falls asleep before doing so.
With the few extra beds they were able to secure they were mostly able to get the injured in beds. The orcs don’t seem to mind sleeping in the open, though many aren’t used to being in the forest and are a little creeped out, and the slaves grumble but are mostly used to it by now.
The next morning the party is greeted by a bevy of newcomers; merchants, healers, and those just wanting to help. They descend on the refugee group and inodate them with offers of service and attempts to buy or sell things. Jigger grabs a few others and makes a point to guard the goods in case anyone “accidentally” forgets to put back something they were looking for.
A couple of haughty elven bloodwitches offer their healing services. ”Point us to the injured and we will sooth them with the magic of the culverwood.” their leader says. He’s very proper looking, formal clothing and very clean, not at all what you’d expect from a bloodwitch of the culverwood. He eyes the orcs with disdain. ”I suppose we’ll even treat those savages if they need it.”
A cheery halfling merchant tries to get Sig’s attention. ”Excuse me sir, you look important. Who do I talk to to buy some of those lovely orcish art pieces? So exotic!”
5 travelers that the rest of the town seems to be in deference to approach the party. There is a male elf wearing a mithral breast plate, with an elvish curve blade and composite bow in the lead with a dwarf female nearby wearing chain mail and carrying a warhammer. Behind them is another male elf wearing a chain shirt and carrying his own long bow and curve blade. He looks somewhat sure of himself but less confident then the male elf in the lead. Taking up the rear are 2 female elves. One is dressed in leather with a wooden shield nervously fingering a sprig of holly while the other one is wearing her own chain shirt and carrying a longbow, longsword and kukri.
The lead male elf clears his throat and says, “I am emissary captain Castien Carfir, this is master emissary Delila Stoneshaper (indicating the dwarf), journeyman emissary Vulmer Waesberos(the other male elf) and novice emissaries Ena Orira (leather wearing elf woman) of the preservationist circle and Kaylin Aerieth (elf woman in the chain shirt) and we have been sent by the ruling council to welcome you into the Emerald Kingdom. The Council has heard of you and your unusual numbers and would like to meet with representative leaders to discuss your plans for the future. We are to leave for the capital at once and we will escort you there safely whereupon in the coming evenings you will stand before them and discuss your circumstances. Do you have any questions for us before we set off?”
Zazu (AC18, HP18/18) and Boyo the bunny (AC15, HP9/9) (Cayzle) Wednesday May 20th, 2020 1:38:05 PM
Zazu gets together with the party in private to talk about money. "We have a big loot pile here, but it is not ours. We need it for the new community and to help those who have been slaves. Those who want to go home need a little travelling money, new clothes, and walking shoes. We need to give something to these people here in Kovri for emptying their larder. And some people are still dressed in rags."
"I propose that we use the group money on this stuff. Our people need it."
=====
When the bloodwitches arrive, Zazu offers them polite and heartfelt thanks, ignoring any snooty ways. "Likely that's just how they are, Boyo. That's just their culture. They don't mean anything by it."
=====
When the heroes come with an invitation to the capitol, Zazu is suprised. "Oh! This Council we have to meet is not in Kovri! Well, then, to the Emerald City."
"What's that you're singing Boyo?" he asks the bunny. "You heard there's a wonderful wizard that we're to see? How do you come up with these crazy ideas, you adorable little puffball?" [OOC: How Zazu can communicate with his familiar is a question we'll leave aside for now, seeing as it is a level 5 wizard thing.]
Zazu is a little shy around the adventurers. being very short and slight for an elf, and to Zazu, they are giants. To the dwarf lady: "It's nice to meet you. I'm Zazu, at your service."
Lothlo (WillD) -- AC: 19/15/14, HP: 28/28, CMD: 20 Wednesday May 20th, 2020 9:03:39 PM
Lothlo greets the emissary and thanks them for their offer.
It would be my pleasure to join you. I assume you are inviting both our party and the leaders of the orcs. Murzush would be one of those that should come, though I'm afraid I would need to ask Murzush who else might be included among those number. Much of their internal discussions were in orcish, and I only picked up a few words of that during my captivity.
Ash (RobC) -- AC 12/12/10 -- CMD 13 -- HP 25/25 Wednesday May 20th, 2020 10:46:58 PM
Ash nods with Zazu "Agreed. There are a lot of goods here that could help these people. We do need to be thrifty though. 2000 gold sounds like a lot, but likely won't last us long. If there's a way we can provide a service as a means of payment, or make things for ourselves, then we should probably look to do so. Buying a roll of cloth and making clothes ourselves might make more sense than buying clothes outright." She looks to Siggy with a smile "Siggy here certainly has some good ideas on how we can reuse things that the people of Kovri might be neglecting. Who knows what else there might be?"
"We also need to be mindful about the supplies of the town. We can't drain all of their supplies and put them in a similar situation. Hunting and foraging for supplies outside of the town might also be a good idea"
---------------
Elven Bloodwitches? Cool! From the Culverwood too. Maybe Zazu will get his wish about having someone friendly with the Culverwood come join us in setting up a town?
Ash doesn't pick up on the haughty attitude and just goes straight forward to introduce herself, waving and smiling as she approaches them like an excited child "Hi! I'm Ash. I was treating these people on the way here, but my magic only goes so far. So what's it like living in the Culverwood? I imagine it must be beautiful. Surrounded by nature. Well, magical nature. But I think that makes it all the more special, am I right?" She rocks backwards and forwards on her feet as she awaits a response "Can I come watch you use your magic?"
Niall (JonL) HP: 18/24 AC: 17/11/16 Wednesday May 20th, 2020 11:50:39 PM
"representative leaders.. " Niall says and looks to the others and then the refugees "I do not think that would be us? Or at least not me, I do not claim to have any authority or leading over those we saved. maybe ask them who they would choose? I am still happy to escort them to the capitol."
Sigismund Brauer (Tanner) -- HP 35 | AC 18/11/16 | CMD 20 | F+6/R+3/W+0 Wednesday May 20th, 2020 11:59:06 PM
Siggy barks a laugh at the halfling merchant. "Well, now! I ain't never heard no one tell me I look important! Thanks fer that. Now... orcish art? I guess you need to talk to those orcs. I think that's their 'nice' art. Most orc art I've ever seen had hair'n blood'n all sorts of stuff mixed in with the paint. If they even used paint. Sometimes it was just hair'n blood. And not their blood." He shakes his head to clear his mind. "Anywho! Look at me ramblin'. You could ask them orc women if they could make you more. You could prob'ly get a good deal. I think they'd take meat instead of coin right now fer trade."
At the arrival of the greeting party he listens, and after their speech smiles and raises his arms in celebration. "Well look at y'all, Mr. Bigshots! Yer goin' to the capital! Y'all're gettin' to meet with highfalutin fancypants. Now, make sure none of y'all get bamboozled. Those government types..." He looks left and right conspiratorially. "Those government types'll try to skin you'n sell you yer own hide back. And make you think they're helpin' you all the while. Be careful." He gives a knowing wink and touches the side of his nose with a finger.
Naithi (JamesD) AC: 19/14/17 HP: 18/18 , CMD = 16 Thursday May 21st, 2020 12:29:05 AM
I wake up and stretch, only slightly surprised by the new comers. I have some questions, if you don't mind. How far away is the capitol, and when can we expect to be back? As you can imagine, things are a bit tenuous here. It is important we are able to keep the people and the orc women's morale up and prevent any escalation of old grudges. In addition, food and shelter are still of concern.
I am am sure it can all be worked out, we just need some time to arrange it and to know how long we will be away
Zazu (AC18, HP18/18) and Boyo the bunny (AC15, HP9/9) (Cayzle) Thursday May 21st, 2020 7:47:25 AM
Zazu looks about, confused. Siggy does not seem to be thinking he's coming. Heck, Niall does not think so either, exactly, does he? Naithi is clearly planning to leave most of us behind.
"Wait, stop, hold on a sec, please!" Zazu says. "Why oh why are we splitting up? We really really should bring everybody, make a camp just outside the city, and send our representatives to the Council. Easy peasy. It makes me very nervous to split up the group. It's not fair to the good people of Kovri to impose on them for so long. The capitol will have many more resources to care for our folk."
Zazu tries to muster support for this idea. "My parents were adventurers, and they told me that the first rule is 'Don't split up the party!' We just have a very big party!"
"And we can decide who our representatives are on the way there!"
DM Mitch d20=7 ; Thursday May 21st, 2020 7:24:41 PM Zazu brings up the subject of money with his friends, privately. Later when the blood witches arrive he offers them polite and heartfelt thanks, surmising their haughtiness is just how they are. He is a little surprised to learn that the council the group needs to meet with is in the Emerald City and not in Kovri. He is shy around the emissaries but introduces himself to Delilah.
Delilah says to Zazu, “Hello Zazu. As Castien noted I am a senior member of the emissary corp of the Emerald City. The council dispatches us as a sort of group of agents to act on their behalf, investigating things or going to places they can’t easily go to and acting as an extension of the council. Our team was dispatched to retrieve representatives from your caravan so here we are. Hopefully it will be a short trip back as we do have powerful means of transport at our disposal. Don’t get me wrong I respect the orders of the council but this task seems rather simple to need both Castien and myself but each council member has the ability to name their emissary representative in matters such as these.”
Lothlo greets the emissaries and thanks them for their offer. He asks if the emissaries are also interested in taking leaders among the orcish contingent of the caravan back with them.
Ash agrees with Zazu about the money and goods. She points out that 2000g is not much. She suggests they try to get things from Kovri that no one is using they can and points out they need to try not to drain the villagers of all of their resources.
She is also eager to meet the elven bloodwitches. He seems pleasantly surprised at her enthusiasm. ”Yes you may watch. The culverwood is truly magnificent - traveling deep in the forest is like nothing else I know of. Sadly throughout the kingdom it is dead, magically speaking, the evil of Parnoth drove back the sentient forest and left mere trees in it’s wake. To truly know the woods you must leave our borders. A true tragedy.”
Nial wonders if they even count as representatives or leaders. He suggests they maybe send someone else.
Sigismund is amused by being considered important looking. He suggests the halfling talk to the orcs. He is impressed by the others being important and warns them about government types.
Naithi asks about how long the trip is going to be.
Zazu is surprised by people assuming that they’d be left behind. He asks why they have to split up and suggests the entire group of refugees goes to the capital.
The halfling nods thoughtfully. ”Ah, I expected that you would have someone supervising the selling of things. To make sure you get a good price. So many people, you must be desperate for cash and no doubt many won’t know what you have is worth.”
He turns and waves at two other merchants. They look at little rough around the edges. ”Go talk to the orc women, they’re the ones selling. Make sure to give them a good price.” sense motive 21 Highlight to display spoiler: {something about the way he said that makes you a little suspicious as to what a “good price” means.} Turning back to Sigis he continues. You wouldn’t happen to know how the group is doing financially would you? If you can tell me what funds the group has I can help you figure out your options. I know generally what most things in the area cost.
Castien looks at the group and clarifies, “Who you send as representatives is entirely up to you. Our orders did not specify the race of the representatives that we were to bring back, though I was under the impression that your group had escaped from the bondage of an orc tribe. I am surprised to learn that you have full blooded orcs among your number. It would seem like if you do have a language barrier with parts of your group and the council is to reach an agreement about what to do with your group then I would say name your orc representatives. I cannot say though if their presence will hurt or help your case but I know Counselor Zelphar personally and their presence might pique his interest.”
As for numbers, there are two limitations. Time and space. A group this large would take several days to travel to the capital, days with nowhere they could access food and supplies. Our bureaucracy and supply chain is not set up for this many people and the council needs to make decisions and changes to provide you the assistance you need in the time you need it. Even if we could magic your entire group to the council there just isn’t the space for you all to be there and state your case. The best, fastest compromise is for us to teleport a small group to represent you to the council, state your needs and intentions to them, and teleport you back with their decision and what the group as a whole can expect.
Feel free to talk amongst yourselves and choose who to represent you. I must ask you limit it to no more than 10 people, a few less if possible, as it will be unlikely any more would be let into the council chamber.
Hilia and Codru, who were also listening in, look at the rest of you. ”Group huddle time guys. Lets go discuss.”
Soon most of the refugees are grouped up to discuss it. The ones both healthy enough and interested at least. Hilia opens the discussion. ”Ok, we need to pick representatives. Who here has any experience with the EK bureaucracy?
No one speaks up.
Lothlo (WillD) -- AC: 19/15/14, HP: 28/28, CMD: 20 d20+2=18 ; Thursday May 21st, 2020 9:05:29 PM
Lothlo looks at the silent faces in the group In that case, how many of you feel you have a bit of a silver tongue when speaking in common, and know enough about our plans to feel comfortable answering any questions they may have for us? That should at least give us a good start in figuring this out.
sense motive = 18
Niall (JonL) HP: 18/24 AC: 17/11/16 Thursday May 21st, 2020 10:13:30 PM
Niall remains silent too. he has no experience with such things.
Zazu (AC18, HP18/18) and Boyo the bunny (AC15, HP9/9) (Cayzle) Thursday May 21st, 2020 10:27:19 PM
Zazu looks around at the people who have become more than just traveling companions ... three humans, a beastfolk, a minotaur, a half-drow ...
"Well, I should go because I'm an elf, who has been to the Emerald City before, and who speaks orc. Though I am not a smooth talker. Niall should go because he is a good speaker, and because as a paladin he can vouch for everyone else."
"Heck, I think we should ALL go!"
Sigismund Brauer (Tanner) -- HP 35 | AC 18/11/16 | CMD 20 | F+6/R+3/W+0 d20-1=14 ; Thursday May 21st, 2020 11:50:41 PM "I mean, heck," Sigismund scratches his head, "I just joined y'all a few days back. I make moonshine and I hit things. That's about the sum total of my skill set. Now maybe, just maybe, I could vouch that there's commercial interests that're gonna be involved in this new settlement, but that's about it. I don't even know what to name my brewery 'til the town has a name, but I could at least say y'all aren't just gonna be orcs'n beggars. You know...' cause that's how some of those elves look at y'all."
Ash (RobC) -- AC 12/12/10 -- CMD 13 -- HP 25/25 Thursday May 21st, 2020 11:56:32 PM "Wow. I never knew" There is so much Ash has to learn about the history of the Culverwood. She has plenty more questions but sees Codru call the group over for a discussion "If you'll excuse me I think Codru there wants me for something. I look forward to seeing you work, er ... ?" She pauses for the elf to introduce himself, before politely excusing herself.
-----------
Ash makes her way over to where Codru has gathered everyone for a huddle "Those elves aren't bad people at all. So what's going on over here?"
She quickly catches up to speed on the forthcoming trip.
"Yep. We can all go, can't we? Wait, when you say all, you mean just the seven of us, right Zazu?" she looks to him for a nod. "What's that? 7? They'd be ok with that, wouldn't they?"
Zazu (AC18, HP18/18) and Boyo the bunny (AC15, HP9/9) (Cayzle) Friday May 22nd, 2020 12:03:58 AM
"Maybe 8 if we bring Murzash?"
Ash (RobC) -- AC 12/12/10 -- CMD 13 -- HP 25/25 Friday May 22nd, 2020 1:35:03 AM "Mmmm... with the anti-orc sentiment we're seeing around here, she might be needed here to help keep the peace while we're gone. Provided she trusts us to act in their best interests."
Naithi (JamesD) AC: 19/14/17 HP: 18/18 , CMD = 16 d20+1=10 ; Friday May 22nd, 2020 2:35:42 AM
I chew on my lip. Clearly politics here are more complicated than in my homeland. You want to be close enough to trade and far enough away to prevent disputes... And in our case as far away from the government powers as possible... Maybe we aren't so different.
It sounds like we will be back soon enough. I'll go. I might not know about diplomacy, but I know about forests and the animals.
Sense Motive = 10
Lothlo (WillD) -- AC: 19/15/14, HP: 28/28, CMD: 20 Friday May 22nd, 2020 8:58:56 PM
Lothlo runs his fingers through his hair. I think you are over thinking it. It sounds like at least some of them would have their interest pique by the inclusion of Murzash, and she would be better than anyone in explaining the situation and the need the women have to find somewhere safe and free from oppression. But Murzash would know better than us whether she would better help her people here or by going with us, so let's just ask her if where she thinks she can do the most good.
DM Mitch Saturday May 23rd, 2020 7:52:04 AM Lothlo asks the group how many feel they have a silver tongue when speaking in common and are comfortable answering questions about their future plans.
Niall remains silent as he has no experience with these things.
Zazu looks around at his friends and states he thinks they all should go reasoning that he should go because he is an elf who speaks orcish and Niall should go because he is a paladin orator who could vouch for the group in particular.
Sigismund doesn’t think he has much to offer.
Ash is fascinated and asks the elf’s name. He introduces himself as Wyrran Valar and his two cohorts as Aiduin and Elnaril. She clarifies if Zazu means the 7 of them or not.
Zazu wonders if they should bring Murzush. Ash points out she might be more useful here to keep the peace.
Naithi agrees to go and wonders about politics
Lothlo says the rest might just be overthinking things and they should just ask Murzush.
Murzush had been taking care of something and joins the group meeting just as people start talking about her. ”Go where?” she asks. Once everything has been explained she hesitates before nodding. ”I will go. I started all of this, I will see it through until everyone is safe.”
”Your group was the one who approached the fort and that seemed to go well, the elves helped and everything.” Hilia points out. ”You also have that whole unlikely heroes shtick going. You’ve probably got the best chance of getting what we need out of them.” Codru adds.
Jigger grunts. ”We need a lot. I don’t think you lot realize how little twenty grand is. If we have to pay for land here to settle on that probably isn’t even enough to start a town. Heck, it isn’t even enough to build houses for us all, a house along can cost thirteen-hundred. Spin us in a good light, maybe do them a few favors. Whatever you can to make them think we’ll be a good long term investment. Otherwise we’ll be camping in the woods until some monster comes along to eat us.”
The decision made the party can now tell Castien they’re ready to go or spend some time dealing with things here. The halfling Sigis was talking to is listening in on your gathering with interest, the bloodwitches seem to have upset some of the orcs with their air of superiority, and the halflings two friends seem to have found someone to buy things from.
Codru and the others can probably deal with it all should you want to go ahead and go.
Sigismund Brauer (Tanner) -- HP 35 | AC 18/11/16 | CMD 20 | F+6/R+3/W+0 Sunday May 24th, 2020 6:17:05 PM
Sigismund smiles and chuckles. "Jigger, I don't think the highfalutin' council would give us much trouble. They'll give us the land fer free. And thank us for it! Or they're idjits." He counts on his thick fingers. "One, right now they have over a hundred hungry, homeless, desperate orcs in their town. They want to get rid of them lickety-split. They sure as heck won't be campin' in the woods if they don't have a place to go. They'll be beggin' on the streets or stealin' to get what they need! With over a hundred of 'em, the town guard won't be able to jail them all, and they'll have a good-sized mob if they do anything physical with 'em." A second finger. "Two, we ain't gonna pay fer land. We're homesteaders, and the council will let us know where we can homestead. In exchange fer clearin', buildin', and civilizin' the land, they'll agree to recognize ownership'n leave us alone. Simple as that." A third finger. "Three, which means they can draw some little lines on a map to get us out of their hair ferever, expand their economy, and increase their overall strength, or," he drops his hand, "they'll have a green-skinned mob in the middle of their town."
The big minotaur laughs out loud. "Aw, heck! Ferget doin' favors fer the council! If their heads aren't full of rocks they'll want to know what they can do fer us."
Niall (JonL) HP: 18/24 AC: 17/11/16 Sunday May 24th, 2020 7:25:45 PM
"it would seem odd for us to need to buy the land when they have more to gain by giving it, but I am not a politician or a settler to know the process" Niall chimes in.
Ash (RobC) -- AC 12/12/10 -- CMD 13 -- HP 25/25 Sunday May 24th, 2020 10:32:22 PM
Ash raises an eyebrow at Siggy's declarations "Yeah, I'm not sure that's how the kingdom here works"
"While we do have a few orcs with us, they only number around 20 or 30. Pretty much the minority, and only women and children at that. They certainly won't be a threat to anyone.
Kovri looks to have a good relationship with the local fort and were able to get representatives from the council and those bloodwitches all here with only a few hours notice. Forget the guards, they have strong allies here. If they want us out of this town we wouldn't have any choice in the matter. They won't jail us. Just force us out. We'd ruin any chance of an ongoing peaceful relationship and the trade it might allow. Not to mention the protection that fort might have to offer.
As for paying for land, well, if we settle in a part of the Kingdom then we have to abide by the laws of that kingdom. If that means we have to pay for land in some way - through gold or deeds - well, again I don't think we'll have much choice in the matter. If we try and take something they believe they own then we would risk the consequences of doing that."
Ash shakes her head "They hold all the power. If we get land for free, that would be amazing. We'd have more funds to help get things up and running. If not and they say we have to pay, then we need to find a way to work within their rules if our settlement is to have a future"
DM Mitch Monday May 25th, 2020 8:06:53 AM Sigismund suggests they’d be doing the council a favor by providing a place for the orcs who just showed up one day to stay and that there is plenty of incentive for the council to just give them land and declare the lot of them homesteaders, being done with them. He suggests the council should be more interested in what they can do for the caravan than what the caravan can do for the council.
Niall says it would be odd for them to need to buy the land when the council has more to gain by giving it but he is not a settler nor a politician.
Ash speculates on the number of orcs. She has forgotten that the orcs in fact are in about equal numbers to the rest of the refugees combined. By race and by culture Orcs outnumber every other race in the group by a lot as the non-orcs represent a large amount of different places and cultures scattered about the Wold. She also points out that they should do their best to make friends as the EK just has to force them out of the area with their army if they decide they want to.
Jigger grunts at Sigismund’s comments. ”Those are all good reasons you might succeed, but people make choices based on emotions as much as logic, so make them feel good about us or they’ll just tell the army to dump our whole group back in the scab since we’re clearly so friendly with orcs. The moment you assume you’ll get what we want without effort is the moment something goes wrong you aren’t ready for.”
Myre chimes in, “You know I’ve been having some doubts about myself lately and where I would be the most useful. While going before the council would potentially be an experience maybe it would be best if Waddles and I stayed here with the villagers while the rest of you proceeded to the Emerald City.”
Naro approaches Zazu when he’s free for a moment. ”I know you’re all making long term plans here, but I want to go home. I found out one of the bloodwitches knows the Culverwood well enough to help me find my way back.”
Zazu (AC18, HP18/18) and Boyo the bunny (AC15, HP9/9) (Cayzle) Monday May 25th, 2020 1:15:56 PM
Regarding the meeting with the Council, Zazu is unhappy and quiet at first, but her bunny friend says that it is better to speak up. Zazu does so, but only very quietly, so that Siggy, Naithi, Naill, Lothlo, Ash, and Myre are the only ones who can hear.
"Friends, let us not buy trouble. Let's go to the Council, state the facts, ask for a place to settle, and see what they say. But here is our ace in the hole: If they say no, or if we do not like the offer, then we just say thanks, come get our people, and leave the Emerald Kingdom. We can settle just fine in the eaves of the Culverwood outside the Kingdom, or in the Culverwood, maybe on a river."
Zazu pauses, listening to an internal voice. "Yeah, we do not need to justify ourselves, or bargain, or argue. Doing that will make them suspicious, and maybe they will stop us from leaving or interfere."
Zazu (AC18, HP18/18) and Boyo the bunny (AC15, HP9/9) (Cayzle) Monday May 25th, 2020 1:26:19 PM
When he says that he is ready to go, Náro tugs on Zazu's heartstrings. "Are you really sure, my oldest friend," he asks, after a strong hug. "I understand, but will you do me a big favor? Think about it and stay here with Myre, Murzash, and the group while we go talk to the Council? When we hear what they say, maybe you will have more information."
OOC to DMs: Highlight to display spoiler: {Given we are looking for newbies, maybe Violet will come back after classes end in about a month. Let me email you guys and Jerry. Thanks!}
Lothlo (WillD) -- AC: 19/15/14, HP: 28/28, CMD: 20 Monday May 25th, 2020 9:01:44 PM
Lothlo looks around the group and listens to their discussions regarding the current situation. I suppose there isn't much more we can do until we are in front of the council and can judge how they are reacting to what we have to say. I think we have found everyone who is wanting to join us and feels comfortable talking to the council. I do hope that they see everyone is just wanting to find a way to create a better life and live in peace here.
Sigismund Brauer (Tanner) -- HP 35 | AC 18/11/16 | CMD 20 | F+6/R+3/W+0 Tuesday May 26th, 2020 1:06:35 AM "More're less, Zazu. More're less." He claps the elf on the shoulder, cringes, then gives a softer pat. "Sorry. I'm used to bein' around my family. Yep, this council can help us, or we can just set up shop outside their borders. No fuss, no muss." Sigismund hefts his hammer. "Well, I'm ready."
Ash (RobC) -- AC 12/12/10 -- CMD 13 -- HP 25/25 Tuesday May 26th, 2020 9:23:44 AM "Whatever they say, let's just be respectful. We might disagree with them, but we might still need them as trading partners"
Naithi (JamesD) AC: 19/14/17 HP: 18/18 , CMD = 16 Tuesday May 26th, 2020 7:19:50 PM
I nod in agreement. Friends and allies are extremely important. It will give the people hope.
ooc: Sorry, it had been a very busy holiday with some minor family emergencies and I'm returning to work tomorrow. I assume be posting regularly again tomorrow.
Lothlo (WillD) -- AC: 19/15/14, HP: 28/28, CMD: 20 Tuesday May 26th, 2020 9:01:27 PM
Lothlo nods his head in agreement with Sigismund. Yes, we can try settling elsewhere if need be, but I am hoping the council will see wisdom in letting them settle here. They did seem open to it when they came.
Zazu (AC18, HP18/18) and Boyo the bunny (AC15, HP9/9) (Cayzle) Tuesday May 26th, 2020 10:43:38 PM
"Okay," Zazu declares. "I'm ready to go."
"I mean WE are."
Niall (JonL) HP: 18/24 AC: 17/11/16 Tuesday May 26th, 2020 11:27:39 PM
"I Am ready" Niall agrees.
DM Mitch Tuesday May 26th, 2020 11:49:18 PM Zazu suggests to the party that they go to the council and ask for a place to settle and if they don’t like the council’s response or offer they can settle in The Culverwood outside the Kingdom. He suggests they not justify themselves, bargain or argue lest they make the council suspicious. When he hears Naro’s news he suggests that Naro stay at least until they get back from the council. She reluctantly agrees. Lothlo suggests there isn’t much they can do further for now until they are in front of the council. He says they’ve identified everyone who is interested in going and that he hopes the council can see they are just trying to find a better life.
With the party ready to go they inform Castien they are ready and that the 8 of them will represent the group. He looks them over, then nods to Delilah.
Delilah produces a staff and says, “I can take 6 others including myself. Vulmer and 5 of your representatives or 4 if Sigismund is going this trip.”
She lets the group figure out who goes when and soon they are off, and Delilah is back, and then they are off again, and Delilah is back again and finally Delilah is off with the remainder one last time.
Regardless of order the group and their emissary escorts find themselves arriving in a large room with a teleportation circle. Aside from themselves and the emissaries who went to retrieve them it is empty at the moment.
“Welcome to Emissary headquarters.” Castien says, “Follow me and don’t touch anything.”
He leads the party and the rest of the emissaries down a series of passageways containing many doors, some of which have interesting sounds on the other side.
Finally he reaches a door at the end of a hallway, opens it and ushers the party through. You exit outside of a stable at the end of what appears to be a bustling city street. It is not what you’d imagine an Elven city to be. There are trees, but they’re in orderly rows in little inlets in the street. Wood and stone buildings line the street, and there’s about as many non-elves as elves. Everything seems measured and orderly, the buildings, the cobblestones, the trees, like a meticulously maintained museum.
He says, “Not much further now; keep up.”
You walk down the street to a large richly appointed inn midway down it. The sign on the inn depicts a treant.
“Here we are. The Elder Treant Inn. Think of this place as your temporary home away from home for the duration of your stay. Delilah, Ena and Kaylin will also stay here for now. The council will meet tomorrow, so take your time, freshen up, enjoy the amenities.”
He says to Vulmer, “You’re with me. Your uncle is expecting you for lunch and I have to deliver a report to Zelphar. Come on.”
The 2 rangers take their leave. The party and their new emissary friends are now in the richly appointed common room of the Elder Treant Inn. It is mid morning.
Sigismund Brauer (Tanner) -- HP 35 | AC 18/11/16 | CMD 20 | F+6/R+3/W+0 Wednesday May 27th, 2020 1:14:48 AM
Sigismund accompanies the group, and gives a low whistle to the rich adornment of nearly every surface in the Emissary Headquarters. His impression is maintained throughout their journey to the inn, until they are left to their own devices in the Elder Treant common room. "Well, I'll be! This whole town is so rich, I bet they buy a new boat when the other one gets wet! I haven't seen so many furbelows since the spring cotillion." He smacks his lips. "I can't visit an inn without tryin' most of their adult beverages. Anyone wanna join me?" He approaches the bar and raps his knuckles. "Innkeep!" he calls out in a friendly tone. "Do y'all do tastin's? I don't need to get soused in the middle of the mornin', but I reckon this is my only chance to sample yer wares."
Zazu (AC18, HP18/18) and Boyo the bunny (AC15, HP9/9) (Cayzle) Wednesday May 27th, 2020 9:17:00 AM
Zazu looks around. "It is very nice," murmuring to Boyo ... "But it is so ... organized like. The roads are so ... straight. It is all corners. This city was not grown, it was planned."
Zazu laughs with the familiar's mental voice. "Yeah, by someone who had too much graph paper laying around. Heh! What's graph paper?"
Ash (RobC) -- AC 12/12/10 -- CMD 13 -- HP 25/25 Wednesday May 27th, 2020 10:05:12 AM
Ash is tempted to get closer to some of the doors to try and hear what is behind them, but remembers she is supposed to be on best behavior. Instead she clutches her hands behind her back and keeps on walking.
This whole place is just so... big! So much activity. This is the sort of thing she left home to see.
Feeling quite happy she walks along, giving slight nods to the people and greeting a few in passing "Hi!" "Hello!" "Hi there". Doesn't hurt to be friendly after all.
The inn looks very fancy. "I wonder how fancy? Would they have music and games? Probably no fights". Ash isn't sure what to expect, but she's keen to find out.
She looks to the emissaries for what to do next. Mid-morning. Could probably have some morning tea or something? She's still a little light on gold though. Hopefully the emissaries have a little 'good-will' gold they can lay down. "So... how many rooms have been put aside for us?"
Lothlo (WillD) -- AC: 19/15/14, HP: 28/28, CMD: 20 Wednesday May 27th, 2020 8:53:21 PM
Lothlo sees others ordering something at the inn, and suddenly realizes how long it's been since he's had a meal other than orc scraps or army rations. He joins the others and asks about getting something to eat. Suddenly his stomach makes him acutely aware of all the delicious smells wafting in from the inn's kitchen.
Could I get a cup of black coffee, the stronger the better, and I have no idea what smells so delicious back there, but I would love to order two helpings please.
He then turns to their new emissary friends. Castien suggested we enjoy the amenities, what would you recommend?
Naithi (JamesD) AC: 19/14/17 HP: 18/18 , CMD = 16 Wednesday May 27th, 2020 11:27:28 PM
I look in surprise at the city. There had been no wines in my homeland since time out of mind, but our legends depicted them as one with nature. This looks about as natural as anything run by politicians.
Thank you for your hospitality. When and where should we meet you tomorrow? Also, is there a map of the city and the Emerald Kingdom as a whole we could look at? Perhaps one with trade routes, allies, and the kingdom's borders? I am not from around here and would rather not embarrass myself by asking questions I should know the answer to.
Sigismund Brauer (Tanner) -- HP 35 | AC 18/11/16 | CMD 20 | F+6/R+3/W+0 Thursday May 28th, 2020 12:04:30 AM
Sigismund looks around. "Where's that innkeep? They havin' a private party upstairs or somethin'? I hope the good stuff ain't all gone. A proper liquor ain't worth a snuff if it can't strip paint."
DM Mitch Thursday May 28th, 2020 12:59:47 AM Sigismund is impressed by the town and thinks they’re rich here. He asks for a drink sampler.
Zazu is distrube by the orderliness of the place and starts talking to himself.
Ash is tempted to go eavesdrop. She tries to be friendly and she asks about the rooms at the inn. Lothlo realizes that it’s been a while since they had good food. He orders some. Naithi thanks the emissary for the hospitality and asks about maps and things.
Sigismund...
The Innkeep comes out from behind a stack of kegs, a towel and glass in hand cleaning. He is a middle aged portly man with a long brown beard, piercing blue eyes and laugh lines. He looks at the minotaur and says, “I take it you want a flight then?”
He puts the towel and glass down and proceeds to retrieve a long wooden plate with small divots inserted at even intervals. He reaches below the bar and pulls out five three ounce glasses that he proceeds to fill from five different taps.
He points to the plate and says, “Porter, Stout, Wheat Ale, Sour, Red Ale. Enjoy.”
Ash...
As Ash walks down the street the responses she gets to her greetings are varied. Some folks ignore her, while others give her the side eye. A few people though return her hellos with their own. When they get to the inn, Delilah looks up at Ash from the table she is sitting at and says to her, “How many rooms would your group like? You folks don’t have to worry about paying for anything here as you are our guests. The emissaries have an arrangement with the owner of this inn, so how many rooms would you like?”
Lothlo…
When Lothlo calls for coffee a server comes out from the kitchen area and asks, “Should I bring a carafe?”
She says, “As for what smells so good, we have beef stew. I’ll be right back with 2 bowls.”
When asked what they recommend Kaylin blinks and says, “The beef stew is tasty. You made a good choice. Definitely get the homemade hot crossed cinnamon buns for deserts.”
Naithi…
Ena answers her questions. ”Someone will come here to get you for the council meeting. The innkeeper probably has a map somewhere.” And indeed a map is dug up and presented to her so she can get the lay of the land.
As it gets closer to lunch time more and more diners begin to fill the room. Kaylin opts for a sandwich stacked high with fixings and large pickle. Ena opts for a salad. Delilah has a bisque with a goblet of wine.
A trio with a singer, a drummer, and a lutist ascend a small stage in the common room and begin to play.
The singer sings songs about the Culverwood, Parnoth and legends of the Wold in general and for once things start to feel like the tales you’ve heard of what the adventuring life is like. Here you are, a party of friends in an inn on a quest to meet with the leaders of a kingdom and secure aid for the village you seek to found. A dart board is set up and some of the patrons start throwing darts. A card game starts up at one of the tables and an elderly looking elf has started setting up a chess board at another.
Looks like the Inn really does have plenty of amenities.
Ash (RobC) -- AC 12/12/10 -- CMD 13 -- HP 25/25 Thursday May 28th, 2020 4:03:43 AM
Hmmm. It's a nice place and all, but should everyone get their own room? Would that be a little extravagant and taking advantage of the hospitality? It would also make things tricky for the group to set up some sort of watch schedule if everyone was in their own room. Probably wouldn't need it, but you never know. She can't see everyone fitting in the one room. Well, if everyone was to buddy up... "Three rooms should be enough I think. Thanks Delilah"
Ash's mouth starts to water as soon as Kaylin's sandwich hits the table. Her eyes go wide and she looks to the server "Excuse me. Could... may I get one of those too please but without the pickle? And a goblet of wine as well please? Thanks"
"Well done Ash. Mother would be proud of those manners." She grins and mentally gives herself a pat on the back, equally happy with herself and the delicious meal she is about to enjoy.
While she waits she glances around the room at all the goings-on. She's especially curious about the gentleman with the chess board. This is a fancy place. Ash watches for a while to see if he is playing against anyone in particular or just open to anyone joining him.
Assuming no-one approaches him, Ash takes the initiative and excuses herself from the table to go and see if he'd like someone to play with.
Zazu (AC18, HP18/18) and Boyo the bunny (AC15, HP9/9) (Cayzle) Thursday May 28th, 2020 6:37:58 AM
Wide-eyed Zazu is quiet here in the capitol of the Emerald Kingdom. The elf was not a slave in Parnoth's realm for long, having been captured very near to the end of the dragon's reign, but the memories are not good, and here ... reliving them is hard.
Zazu nods absently and asks for the stew too, staying close to the group, not wandering off.
Niall (JonL) HP: 18/24 AC: 17/11/16 Thursday May 28th, 2020 11:32:54 AM
"thank you for your hospitality in hosting us" Niall says to their hoss as they offer to pay for their lodging. "I am used to cramped quarters in a temple so am find with sharing rooms, but others may want more privacy. whatever the rest would like"
He will join the others in ordering beef stew as well. Better food than slave camp provision stew for sure.
Naithi (JamesD) AC: 19/14/17 HP: 18/18 , CMD = 16 Thursday May 28th, 2020 2:01:02 PM
I shake my head. I spent half a year chained to a post in the middle of slave camp, I'm not exactly concerned with privacy at the moment... Just don't approach me with chains or shackles if you value the hands carrying them. .
I talk big, but without Camalayaas, Fizzgig, and Cuddly Mule, where would I be? I've never been alone. Even imprisoned, I knew they were waiting for me. Could I have been so strong without knowing they were waiting for me?
Pushing the thought out if my mind, I order a flight and a variety of food to try as I look over the map.
Lothlo (WillD) -- AC: 19/15/14, HP: 28/28, CMD: 20 Thursday May 28th, 2020 9:05:34 PM A carafe would be lovely, I believe I will try one of those hot crossed cinnamon buns for deserts, please and thank you. Lothlo polishes off the food in short order. After months in captivity surviving on moldy scarps the flavor of such delicious food is almost overwhelming. He is glad when the musicians take the stage, ordering a pint of ale and enjoying the long absent feeling of having a full belly as he listens to their performance.
Sigismund Brauer (Tanner) -- HP 35 | AC 18/11/16 | CMD 20 | F+6/R+3/W+0 Friday May 29th, 2020 1:14:54 AM
Sigismund thanks the innkeep and rubs his hands in anticipation. "Oooh, I can't wait! But I should. If I just wanted to get drunk I'd drink paint thinner, amirite?" He playfully elbows Lothlo at the bar. "These need to be savored!"
The great minotaur is suddenly quite purposeful, practiced, and analytic in his movements. Raise a glass, hold it up to a light and peer through, smell, small sip with lots of air intake, smack mouth, sip half the cup, swirl around mouth, swallow, breathe shallow breaths through the mouth puffing air, sip the rest and swallow normally, close eyes and sigh.
He taps his fingers in thought after each drink. He takes a small notepad from a belt pouch and makes some notations in Minotauric. He nods in satisfaction, puts the pad away, and slides the tray back toward the bar. "Mmm, my compliments to the chef!" He chuckles. "Those're some fine brews. I'm more interested in distillin', but I earned my chops with hops'n barley. My daddy would be willin' to drink this." He smiles widely. "That's about the best compliment I can give!"
He turns to the group. "What food sounds good? I could use some chicken'n dumplin's, if they have any. Any day can be made better with gravy, as my granny used to say."
DM Mitch Friday May 29th, 2020 8:09:31 AM Ash considers rooms and decides 3 are enough. She orders some food and eyes the cheese board. Zazu is a little quiet Niall thanks their hosts. Naithi says she doesn't mind sharing and reflects on being separated from her animals. Lothlo eats and listens to the music. Sigismund examines the alcohol carefully then asks about the food.
The server brings out a stacked sandwich with a goblet of wine for Ash
When Ash approaches the gentlemen with the chess set and asks for a match he says, “I am without an opponent at this time. If you care for a game, you may sit down.” (OOC: make an Int check to see how well the game turns out; or if you can make a case for how a skill pertains to the chess game we may allow you to substitute the skill instead)
A bowl of stew is brought out to Zazu..
Niall receives a bowl of stew as well.
A flight of beer and a variety of food are brought out for Naithi.
The bartender nods at Sigismunds compliments and offers him a variety of options for food. They do have chicken’ n dumplin’s.
Delilah says, “Only Three rooms eh? We can accommodate that easily enough.”
She tells the innkeep to arrange for three rooms and let them know when they are ready before reaching into a pouch. She then Pulls out a piece of paper, a quill pen and a bottle of ink and jots something down before calling for a runner to dispatch whatever it was she had just written down.
The map pretty much shows the orderly layout of the city. Prominently towards the bottom of it you can see the Elder Treant Inn, which is your current location and towards the center there is a large building labeled Council Chamber.
Zazu (AC18, HP18/18) and Boyo the bunny (AC15, HP9/9) (Cayzle) d20+9=27 ; Friday May 29th, 2020 1:06:51 PM
Zazu is curious about what that fellow is writing, but is too shy to ask about it.
Boyo hops on over and nibbles on the paper as Delilah tries to write.
"Oh no, Boyo, no." says Zazu, and tries to scoop up the naughty bunny. "That's not lettuce!"
[Maybe Zazu gets a glimpse? Just by accident? Perception 27]
The only elf among the Champs asks the server very nicely for some water in a dish, lettuce, and carrot.
"You see, he's quite hungry."
Niall (JonL) HP: 18/24 AC: 17/11/16 Friday May 29th, 2020 6:41:59 PM
Niall tries some of the stew and smiles at the hopping lettuce-or-paper attenpting bunny. "that's his secret. he's always hungry."
Ash (RobC) -- AC 12/12/10 -- CMD 13 -- HP 25/25 d20+5=14 ; d20+4=15 ; d20=18 ; Friday May 29th, 2020 8:58:30 PM "Thanks. The name's Ash by the way"
She hasn't played chess for a long time but it comes back to her pretty quick. She starts making small talk with the man, then goes into the background as to why the party are here, the plans to start a new settlement and such.
"And that brought us here" Ash slides her bishop to a new square. She'd like to keep the game going rather than try and beat the man. You can't tell though. She might be thinking she's prolonging the game whereas he might be setting her up and she just can't see it. "What about you? Do you live here? Know anything about this council we're here to meet with? Any tips to help make it go smoothly would sure be appreciated"
------------- Int check: 14 - to play chess Sense Motive: 15 - to get a gut feel for the man Perception: 18 - just to keep an eye as to what is going on in the rest of the tavern
Lothlo (WillD) -- AC: 19/15/14, HP: 28/28, CMD: 20 Friday May 29th, 2020 9:04:16 PM
Lothlo listens to the performers and sips on his ale. How long has it been since he was able to just relax like this? Must be at least a month at this point... truth be told, he's not even certain the current date after their captivity, the days just blurred together and the lack of food kept his brain a little foggy.
Do we have anything we want to do today, or just take it easy and freshen up? I know that after my captivity the recent events have taken their toll on my body, and I know many of you were held longer and treated much worse than I was.
DM Mitch Saturday May 30th, 2020 3:41:22 AM
Zazu goes to catch boyo. Bad bunny! Niall enjoys the stew. Ash enjoys the chess and the conversation. Lothlo enjoys being able to relax.
Zazu and Boyo’s ploy works and the elf is able to get a glimpse of what Delilah had handed to the runner.
Zazu Highlight to display spoiler: {Castien, it looks like our guests only want three rooms so we asked for the trinity suites and got them. They will be staying there. ~Delilah}
The server brings out the asked for water and vegetables.
Niall finds that the stew is indeed to her liking.
When the man hears Ash’s name he laughs and says, “My name is Larch. What are the odds that 2 people named after trees would share a game on a wooden chess set?”
Larch is actually trying to win but doing so clumsily. He seems a bit distracted and Ash is able to prolong the game as long as she likes and could probably engineer a stale mate if she wanted. Ash easily avoids the traps he is trying to maneuver her pieces into and she purposely avoids taking advantage of some of the mistakes that he has made.
Larch says, “Nope, just passing through; though I like to stay here at the Elder Treant Inn when I can when I’m in town. Best place to stay if you ask me and worth every copper. What do I know of The Council? Well they kind of run the Emerald Kingdom and if there is a part they can’t get to well they send their emissaries in their place. The council consists of Zelphar, Maeralya, Faelar, Mastakara and Hal. Zelphar, Maeralya and Faelar are all elves. Mastakara is a dwarf said to be descended from one of the dwarf noble clans that settled here in exile and Hal well he’s a half-elf. Zelphar as elder council member is de facto leader but each one gets a vote in the decisions with the majority ruling. Hal got elected to his position recently and I mean you hear rumors but who is to say if they are true or not? Faelar is kind of an elf traditionalist, likes to use his relatives when he can. I think his nephew is one of them emissaries. Maeralya is one of them traditionalists too though in a more back to nature sense. She’s some kind of witch or druid. Zelphar is pretty well liked. He seems to actually care. I pass through here a lot so I tend to hear things. I’d say if you need to win 3 votes to get whatever you are asking for Zelphar, Mastakara and Hal would probably be your best shot. Mastakara might require some convincing and Hal well I’d watch him but if Zelphar understands what you are going through he’d probably take your side.”
Ash gets a feel that Larch is being honest with her about what he knows. He’s essentially a fairly successful traveling merchant that passes through Karri frequently and knows what he likes. The rest of the tavern is either enjoying the music, eating, drinking or playing their own games. She does see some activity around Zazu, Boyo and Delilah before Delilah hands her note to the runner but she can probably catch up with Zazu later if she wants to know more about it.
Lothlo hears the performers sing one of the ballads concerning King Claudia and feels particularly moved by it.
Naithi (JamesD) AC: 19/14/17 HP: 18/18 , CMD = 16 Saturday May 30th, 2020 11:52:21 PM
I drink my beer and study the maps, looking for viable locations for a town. Places that might be particularly defendable, along a trade route, or next to a natural resource.
Sigismund Brauer (Tanner) -- HP 35 | AC 18/11/16 | CMD 20 | F+6/R+3/W+0 Sunday May 31st, 2020 5:59:03 PM
Sigismund rubs his chin in thought. "Three traditionalists and three novelists. I reckon we need to make our pitch to one of those camps'n try to sway another vote. It depends if we're tryin' to stay in the kingdom or settle outside..."
Niall (JonL) HP: 18/24 AC: 17/11/16 Sunday May 31st, 2020 9:52:52 PM
Niall isn't much for politics. "surely as long as we mention the plight of the newly freed settlers the council will do what is right."
Ash (RobC) -- AC 12/12/10 -- CMD 13 -- HP 25/25 Monday June 1st, 2020 2:40:46 AM
Ash nods along as Larch briefs her on the council.
She does her best to surreptitiously draw a stalemate. With the game done she extends her hand over the table "A good game, Larch. Perhaps you'd let me buy you a drink as thanks for letting me join you?" Ash will try and get the attention of one of the servers so she can order the man an ale.
"And thankyou for your observations on the council. I'm sure those tips will come in handy when we meet with them. Oh, and if you hear of a newly established town around here in the future you should come look us up."
Ash will wait for the drink to arrive to 'cheers' with Larch, before she excuses herself to rejoin the group.
DM Mitch Monday June 1st, 2020 6:13:12 AM
(OOC: There seems to be some confusion. There are only 5 council members total. 2 are traditionalists and both of them are elves; of them one is a druid or witch and the other is a bit of a nepotist. 1 is the scion of a dwarven noble family in exile. 1 is a half-elf who as rumor has it says he might be dodgy or maybe that is just rumor and the last council member is the elder elven council member who seems to actually care)
Naithi drinks her beer and studies the maps looking for viable settlement locations.
Sigismund states their strategy really depends on if they are trying to settle inside the boundaries of the Emerald Kingdom or not.
Niall suggests mentioning the plight of the caravan and relying on the council to do what is right.
Ash finishes her game and thanks her opponent for the information.
Naithi is able to find lots of good options in theory, the problem is that it’s just a geographical map and in no way shows what’s already been bought and under development. It shows already developed places like towns and landmarks, but obviously they’re not going to just give away such places. Obvious locations ripe for development, like right on trade routes, are probably either already claimed or being bid/fought over by the local investors/power brokers.
A few minutes of frustration make it clear she won’t make progress on this on her own. She just doesn’t have the right skills for an educated guess on what locations are likely to have materials that would make it a good place for them to homestead while not being so obvious that it already has a dozen people fighting for the right to do so. She’s going to have to recruit help, from the party, the emissaries, or other people in the room.
Knowledge: Geography would help with figuring likely places to have available resources while Knowledge: Local would help with rumors about what is and isn’t already claimed and knowing what the council might actually suggest as options (higher checks mean better guesses, having both gives you best odds).
Zazu (AC18, HP18/18) and Boyo the bunny (AC15, HP9/9) (Cayzle) Monday June 1st, 2020 7:33:26 AM
Now, Zazu is no slouch in the puzzling things out department, but maybe this drink is too strong ... or maybe this stew has those "special" mushrooms in it ...
There are 5 council members. 2 are traditionalists. 2 are elves; one a druid or witch, the other a nepotist ("Must be some new archetype," Zazu thinks.). The dwarf noble is in exile. The half-elf is dodgy. The last council member cares. One council member walks his dog on Tuesday. One likes ice cream, but only rocky road. We have three rooms and are staying here. So the question is: Where on this map should we put our settlement?"
Zazu's head spins, trying to make sense of it all. "The half elf with the candlestick in the common room?" the elf asks, blearily. "That's just a guess. I haven't got a Clue!"
Lothlo (WillD) -- AC: 19/15/14, HP: 28/28, CMD: 20 d20+3=16 ; d20+3=14 ; Monday June 1st, 2020 9:04:02 PM
Lothlo examines the map looking for possible options. He decides to pay a little extra attention to areas that other races might find less desirable but that the orcs having spent a life time on the plains might actually feel more at home in. Such a location not only would be less likely to be claimed already, but might also have the added benefit of helping the council to see them as a useful in being able to fulfill a unique roll here. It would also mean less adjustments for the orcs and hopefully quicken the process of them getting settled in their new home.
knowledge geography = 16 knowledge local = 14
Sigismund Brauer (Tanner) -- HP 35 | AC 18/11/16 | CMD 20 | F+6/R+3/W+0 Monday June 1st, 2020 10:02:01 PM "Alright! So..." Siggy gestures vaguely around the room. "Whaddaya wanna do? Who wants to 'talk purdy' to the council, as my granny would say?"
Naithi (JamesD) AC: 19/14/17 HP: 18/18 , CMD = 16 Monday June 1st, 2020 10:35:40 PM
I stare at the map another minute before finishing another drink from the flight. I think I would have better luck training the map to scout out a good spot for us. There just isn't enough detail. How does this even work? If no one is there, if it unclaimed? Or does the government or a couple rich guys own everything so no one else can live there? How deep into the woods do they own?
Niall (JonL) HP: 18/24 AC: 17/11/16 Monday June 1st, 2020 11:01:30 PM
Niall shrugs at discussion of maps and claims and ownership and all of that. Not his wheelhouse.
Ash (RobC) -- AC 12/12/10 -- CMD 13 -- HP 25/25 Tuesday June 2nd, 2020 3:32:35 AM
Ash briefs the others on what she learnt from Larch.
"Sounds like we only need to get approval from three of them. That's something at least"
She takes a look at the map and offers up her observations and knowledge of such things
------------- Knowl checks: 20 (Take10 on each)
DM Mitch Tuesday June 2nd, 2020 8:10:24 AM Zazu wonders if maybe he’s had too much strong drink. Besides it was clearly Colonel Mustard in the Billards room with the Lead Pipe.
Sigismund asks about who they should make their pitch too and asks the others what they want to do.
Naithi isn’t sure what to do with the map.
Nial just shrugs.
Lothlo and Ash study the map and find 2 pieces of land that might be suitable to their purpose. They remembers hearing of a small lake between Ferry and the Red Hills where people once thought to try to settle but abandoned the idea because of flooding before they could move anything out there. They also think that there is likely to be unclaimed land between Parnoth’s Hill and the Deep Culverwood because it is remote and hard to get to as there aren’t really any roads that go that way and as far as they’ve heard no one had made any serious attempts to spread out in that direction because there isn’t really anything there per se.
Murzush peers over their shoulders as they look. Lothlo’s idea gets a grunt out of her. ”We’ve always lived on the open plains. I don’t think anywhere in the woods will feel normal to us with all the trees. Maybe that lake, since it’d have some open air. We could always try to make it work back on the plains or deeper in the culverwood if we hate all our options here but I don’t like the idea, too open to raids or to alien to most of the group.”
While the party is sitting around finishing their food and beverage and thinking about next steps, where they could potentially settle and what the meaning is of the information that Ash gleaned from Larch, Delilah gets up and talks to the Innkeep then returns with 4 keys and says, “Good news. Your rooms are ready. Let me escort you to the Trinity Suites.”
She ushers the party down a rather long hallway, turns down another hallway and goes about midway down that hall before stopping at a door inset with an ornately carved clover. She produces the largest of the 4 keys, turns it in the lock and opens the door.
On the other side of the door is…
Castien tending a rather large fireplace in a sort of smaller common room with other doors on the other 3 sides of the room presumably leading to your rooms and a wizened elderly yet still spry looking elf seated at a table drinking a glass of water.
When the door opens Castien turns around and the unknown elf gets up.
He says, “Forgive my intrusion but when I heard Castien’s report I couldn’t wait until tomorrow to meet you. I wanted to see you for myself. I am Zelphar Ilimys, member of the Council of the Emerald Kingdom. Some call me the leader of the council as I’ve served on it the longest but each council member gets a vote so I see us as equals. I understand that you all have been through quite an ordeal but you are trying to move beyond that; let me welcome you to The Emerald Kingdom and what I hope will become your new home.”
His gaze wonders between each of the heroes and Murzush in turn. He seems unfazed by the presence of the orc woman.
He also seems to be waiting for the party to make the next move...
Ash (RobC) -- AC 12/12/10 -- CMD 13 -- HP 25/25 Tuesday June 2nd, 2020 11:11:38 AM
A lake does sound nice. Plenty of nature and a water supply would certainly be very useful for a settlement. It also sounds like Murzush likes the idea of the open air. That it isn't too hard to get to is also a plus for trade.
The lake location does sound good, but the party still need to meet with the council. Who knows what the cost might be?
"Councilman Ilimys. We weren't expecting you" Ash smiles and extends her hand to the man "I'm Ash. At your service. I've heard only good things about you". Hey, a little flattery never hurt!
"It's our hope as well that the Emerald Kingdom might be a place that we could call home. Naturally, we would like to do things by the law so have come to petition the council to establish a settlement of our own. I'm sure we can make a case that shows why it would be mutually beneficial for such an arrangement."
Ash clasps her hands in front of her "Hopefully we can agree on terms sooner rather than later. There are many freed people who need a place to call home. For now though, there are just not enough beds or shelter. They are doing things tough. They are eager to provide for themselves and don't wish to be a burden on any of the other towns. They just need the opportunity. That is why we are here."
"I understand that we will be meeting with the full council tomorrow, however, as the leader perhaps we could spend some time now to answer any questions you may have? Let us know of any concerns you might have so that we can consider how to address them before tomorrow. You'd be welcome to join us for dinner this evening, of course, should you wish to get to know us a little better"
Zazu (AC18, HP18/18) and Boyo the bunny (AC15, HP9/9) (Cayzle) Tuesday June 2nd, 2020 5:09:57 PM
Zazu nods at Ash's excellent speech. All that's left is introductions.
The elf bows and says, "We sure are pleased to meet you. I'm Zazu, and this is my bunny, Boyo. I'm a wizard and Boyo is my familiar. In addition to Ash, we've brought Sigismund, Naithi, Nial, and Lothlo."
"Thank you for your kind welcome."
Lothlo (WillD) -- AC: 19/15/14, HP: 28/28, CMD: 20 Tuesday June 2nd, 2020 9:43:25 PM
Lothlo bows before the council member. It is a pleasure to meet you Councilman Ilimys, I am Lothlo Windswood. We have been doing our homework so that we can make an informed request, but as Ash mentioned, we would be greatly appreciative if you have any recommendations so we can better help on behalf of the refugees..
Naithi (JamesD) AC: 19/14/17 HP: 18/18 , CMD = 16 Tuesday June 2nd, 2020 11:06:10 PM
When I am introduced Camalayaas lowers her front legs to the ground and I give a small bow from her back. I am Naithi and this my faithful companion Camalayaas and the little fuzzball is Fizzgig.
I know this is an inconvenience, but we want a solution that will benefit everyone. We don't want to be a drain on your resources it have to worry about retaliation from the orcs.
Sigismund Brauer (Tanner) -- HP 35 | AC 18/11/16 | CMD 20 | F+6/R+3/W+0 Wednesday June 3rd, 2020 12:37:31 AM
Sigismund rests his hands on the pommel of his hammer. His gives a small wave when his name is mentioned. "Hey. Call me Siggy." He pauses a moment, then nods to indicate his introduction is finished.
DM Mitch Wednesday June 3rd, 2020 7:38:08 AM Ash gives a little speech welcoming the counselor.
Zazu introduces everyone. Well almost everyone, Murzush chimes in with her name and sounds annoyed he forgot to name her.
Lothlo agrees with Ash that they’d like advice and information.
Naithi introduces her animals.
Sigismund says hi.
Zelphar says to Ash, “Your respect for the law is appreciated. I have no doubt finding a plot of land in our boundaries for your caravan and getting you settled will prove mutually beneficial for both your group and the Emerald Kingdom in the long run, though I am not sure if my fellow council members feel this way or what it might take to convince them. I appreciate your offer to join you for dinner but my visit here with you is kind of unofficial. I apologize for the subterfuge but as I said I wanted to get a feel for you for myself without the influence of the other counselors. I do have questions though but they are more to satisfy my curiosity than anything else because I do want to help you. I guess my first question is for your group and that is, “Why, if you were held in bondage by an orc tribe would you welcome their number amongst you? Please do not take this question as a criticism I just want to know your motivation for an action that many would not have taken given the circumstances.”
He pauses to give the party some time to answer and then continues, “My other question is for your orc friend - Murzush was it? What motivates you to leave the life you have known to attempt to settle in a land much different from everything you have known? Again, I apologize if this seems forward and I do not mean any disrespect in asking it but again it seems like this move flies in the face of what would be expected from someone in your situation. If I understand correctly you Murzush were in a respected position for your tribe and yet you abandoned all that in order to help people you effectively had little in common with.” He pauses to give Murzush time to answer.
Murzush responds, “I did it because I wanted something better for both myself and my mother. I don’t know how familiar you are with the orc tribes but I was only tolerated where I was because of the gift of magic I possessed. Had I not been so blessed I would have been little more than chattel in the eyes of my clan. My mother was getting long in the tooth and I knew were we to stay with the clan there would come a day where she would be seen as a liability and abandoned to die. I knew I had a limited window with which to make my move and I had observed how non-orcs tend to act and they tend to show reverence for their elders. I figured for the woman that gave me life to have a chance at continued living my best chance was to take her to the lands controlled by non-orcs and assimilate to your ways. When I did not only did my mother follow me but about half the surviving female members of my tribe. We are all bound by our commitment to finding a better way and we will work hard to contribute to that goal, to actually own a piece of our future than to be effectively seen as property.”
Zelphar nods in response to Murzush’s answer and rolls up the sleeve on his right arm. There appears to be a faded tattoo of an orc totem inscribed in Orcish. He says, “Like all of you, once upon a time I was the property of an orc tribe and managed to find my way to freedom. I saw how the orc women were treated and observed that in some ways they were effectively as much a victim as the rest of us. You can of course see why I can sympathize with your plight.”
He then clears his throat and says “I have just one question and it is to Mr. Sigismund Brauer. I am told that you were not with the caravan when they were enslaved by the orcs but are somewhat of a new addition since they have escaped to Fort Silence. What makes you seek to hitch your wagon to their own as it were? Clearly there are better opportunities out there that aren’t as much of a risk as joining forces with the caravan. Again I apologize if my question seems like a criticism but I wish to know this answer for the sake of the caravan as well as to satisfy my curiosity. Sometimes those who appear as friends may not turn out to actually not be so. Still though if the rest of the group has adopted you amongst their number as if you did go through the ordeal with them they must feel like they can trust you, so please forgive the question if it in any way caused offense and if you do not wish to answer you do not have to.”
After allowing time for Sigismund to respond or not he says, “Now as to Lothlo’s inquiry into what I believe will help the refugees well I believe giving them and you the permission to homestead and a grant of a parcel of land would be the most effective. Sadly I cannot grant you these things by myself. If I had executive authority to do so it would have been granted already but the council meets to decide all things and where we cannot reach we send emissary representatives who also form quorums with respect to the actions they take in the field. I will say I fear that at this point in time that Faelar is rather against the idea of your caravan being given a homestead. From what I can tell he’s concerned with you becoming a ‘drain on our resources’; his words not mine. I also have reason to believe that Maeralya will not vote on the side of your request though she hasn’t been vocal the way that Faelar has. She is a Culverwood devotee and one who is somewhat enamored to the old ways. I doubt she will see a new settlement as conducive to restoring the old way of things. That leaves just Mastakara and Haldir. I think I might be able to convince Mastakara to side with me though it might cost us something to ensure her cooperation. She is a proud person and plays the game well. I will tell you as soon as I can what if anything she requires if it comes to that. Haldir, though, is somewhat of an interesting character. He is the newest council member and I haven’t really known him for that long. I do think being the junior member he isn’t really that interested in making waves and if we can somehow manage to secure a majority outright or failing to do that, convey to him that we are the right side to be on historically speaking, he too would vote for the grant. So in summary it is looking quite possible for you to be given the council’s blessing to pursue your settlement and the good news is you already one third of the way there.”
Niall (JonL) HP: 18/24 AC: 17/11/16 Wednesday June 3rd, 2020 8:18:24 PM
"the orcs that have joined with the others to found a settlement were as much slaves as everyone else, but they were born into it. how could we not include them?" Niall asks, "We are doing what is right."
Lothlo (WillD) -- AC: 19/15/14, HP: 28/28, CMD: 20 Wednesday June 3rd, 2020 9:06:45 PM
Lothlo considers what they've been told. Yes, while that might not make Faelar happy she likely wasn't going to side with us anyway. And it's hard to argue that helping those in need isn't being on the right side of history, especially when the primary reason against this is rooted primarily in personal prejudices. And it's very clear that everyone is fleeing because they were the same victims and just want a peaceful life, that's about as clear cut as it gets for being on the right side.
Zazu (AC18, HP18/18) and Boyo the bunny (AC15, HP9/9) (Cayzle) Wednesday June 3rd, 2020 10:51:33 PM
"May I comment on our inclusion of the orc ladies? If it weren't for Murzush, we would still be slaves! She rallied and inspired us, and helped us. How could we turn our back on her people? Who were basically slaves like us!"
Pondering a moment, Zazu says, "I guess our job is to bring up those orc boys to be different from their fathers."
"As for Faelar, let me talk with them. We are both elves who love the Culverwood. I grew up in the magical forest, and it is the best place in the Wold. I'd like to settle on the Kingdom border to be close to the magical part, or maybe just inside the eaves. After all, the town of Troll is entirely within the magical Culverwood, and there the Woods welcome all manner of people. Maybe we should go there and see how it is done. And maybe Faeler knows some priest of the Culverwood who would be glad to help us settle in the eaves."
"Was that lakeside location near the border of the Emerald Kingdom and the magical forest?"
Sigismund Brauer (Tanner) -- HP 35 | AC 18/11/16 | CMD 20 | F+6/R+3/W+0 Thursday June 4th, 2020 1:02:50 AM "Well," Siggy began, in that country accent that turned a one-syllable word into a two-syllable word, "I'm lookin' to set up my own trade. I finished my apprenticeship a few months ago in Mudtown, and everythin' there is all knees'n elbows kinda crowded. No breathin' room. I wandered 'round a bit 'til I came to Emerald Kingdom'n heard about these wanderin' souls. I figured, heck, I could help out some folks in need, get a new start in a fresh market that ain't full of competitors, and see a bit more of the world than my family ever did." He shifts his feet and shrugs. "That's more reason than most folks have fer gettin' out."
Naithi (JamesD) AC: 19/14/17 HP: 18/18 , CMD = 16 Thursday June 4th, 2020 2:17:58 AM
I just smile. "It seemed the right thing to do. The women didn't have any say in capturing us. It would be unfair for us to punish them for it."
Ash (RobC) -- AC 12/12/10 -- CMD 13 -- HP 25/25 Thursday June 4th, 2020 3:07:41 AM
Ash smiles to Zelphar and relaxes a little "Knowing that you not only support but understand that we might all benefit from such an arrangement is comforting. You ask some good questions.
Welcoming Murzush and her people among us? Well I admit, being captive for so long does tend to sour your disposition a whole lot, but you can't go blaming an entire race for the actions of a few. I'm sure we could find many people of the noble races who have committed some questionable acts.
You do highlight a point though. Many have concerns about orcs as a race. It will be a difficult prejudice to overcome, but I think we should judge these people on their own merit. Murzush turned against her own clan because she saw what they were doing was wrong. She took a stand and as a result many people have been freed from slavery. Those that follow her only sought to be free as well. Why, Murzush may even serve as a beacon to other orcs that they do have a choice."
Ash looks to Murzush and nods before looking back to Zelphar.
"Many may not agree with us to begin with. I know that will be the case. But I believe, in time, they will see that this was the right thing to do. If I understand you correctly, THAT is the point we need to make to Haldir.
As for Mastakara, well, I know you said cost 'us', however we wouldn't ask you to cover any payment she might ask for. Hopefully we can come to some sort of agreement with her."
With her piece said, Ash waits for Zelphar's reply. She is curious though if Murzush recognizes the orc totem on Zelphar's arm. Had it been from her clan then this discussion may have gone a different way.
DM Mitch Thursday June 4th, 2020 12:04:53 PM
Niall says they were just doing what is right.
Lothlo reflects on Faelers attitude and what makes something the right side of history.
Zazu comments that wouldn’t have gotten free at all without Murzush (her scowl lessons as he gives her credit). He also gets Faeler and Maeralya mixed up.
Sigismund explains his reasoning.
Naithi says that it was just the right thing to do.
Ash talks about racism, accepting people for who they are, and how she’s confident over time they can succeed despite it.
Zelphar listens to what each member of the group has to say.
To Niall and Ash he says, “I have no doubt that your cause is just and that you were doing the right thing. The thing is what is right isn’t always easy and what is easy isn’t always right. It would have been easy to not allow the orcs to join you and I do not know what if any opposition you encountered when deciding to do that still nevertheless you persisted in spite of it.”
To Lothlo Zelphar says, “Faelar is a male elf. Probably best to remember that going into the council meeting. As I said to Niall, it was good that you made the decision you did in the face of the prejudices that many hold. Perhaps if you give that same impassioned argument when you are before the council tomorrow you will convince Haldir of the rightness of your actions.”
To Sigismund he just nods. ”Fair logic, though if others in the group share your skill set you may be facing competition after all.”
To Zazu, Zelphar says, “Murzush, specifically helped you yes, but before she did that she was part of a society that enslaved you and the other females did their part as well. It must have taken quite the leap of faith to extend the trust Murzush earned through her actions alone to the rest of her people.”
When Zazu brings up bringing up orc children to be different than their parents he says, “Yes the sins of the father should not be visited on their sons and daughters. Show them there exists a better way and encourage them to live their life seeking it.”
When Zazu discusses strategy for dealing with Faelar he says, “You mean Maeralya, no? Faelar feels his duty is to the Emerald Kingdom and his wish is to steward its resources in a way he feels is responsible for the people of the Emerald Kingdom. Maeralya is the council member interested in the old ways. She is not your typical politician by any means but I think her vocation in some way serves her well. Being a Druid / Bloodwitch with a pact with the Culverwood enables her to see things that others amongst us don’t or so I’ve come to believe over the course of my dealings with her. Mayhap you can win her over as someone who comes from the Culverwood and respects it. Forming a settlement in its eaves or on the border may be a strategy that could win her to your cause. If you do decide to settle within the eaves of the Culverwood though we as the council could not grant you that land as it is not ours to grant. You would of course have to come to some sort of understanding with the Culverwood but I think you know that already.
As for the lakeside location, which it is interesting that you mention that, but I mean that debacle was the talk of the kingdom for quite some time, it is actually between Ferry and The Red Hills. There are some locations though we could grant you that are near the border of the Emerald Kingdom and I mean if those are the locations you are primarily interested in maybe you could use that angle to even convince Faelar. Right now no one is exactly clamoring to set up shop near the living wood. Most people seem to like the tame lands for a reason. If we were giving you something that doesn’t exactly have much value to us right now anyway how can the act of giving it to you be a huge drain on our resources? If anything you’d be doing us a favor by taking charge of a piece of land no one really seems to want and if you could flourish out there why you’d actually be the opposite of a drain considering we could have trade between your settlement and other parts of the Emerald Kingdom.”
Zazu (AC18, HP18/18) and Boyo the bunny (AC15, HP9/9) (Cayzle) Thursday June 4th, 2020 7:32:25 PM
Zazu quietly says thank you for the extra info. "And for keeping me on the up and up, too."
"I'm glad that maybe we have a chance to win over maybe the whole council. We'll try our best, anyway, sir."
Lothlo (WillD) -- AC: 19/15/14, HP: 28/28, CMD: 20 Thursday June 4th, 2020 9:20:20 PM
Lothlo thinks their guest for all the help he's provided. Thank you for all of your help. As for the full meeting, is there anything we need to be aware of as far as decorum? I would hate to find out we are hurting our chances because there are procedural rules we are unaware of.
Ash (RobC) -- AC 12/12/10 -- CMD 13 -- HP 25/25 Friday June 5th, 2020 8:06:16 AM "Thankyou for all of this information. Truly. I'm feeling confident we will succeed tomorrow with your support" Ash leans in to shake Zelphar's hand. She is sincere in her thanks. "If there's anything we can do to repay your kindness, please let us know"
Sigismund Brauer (Tanner) -- HP 35 | AC 18/11/16 | CMD 20 | F+6/R+3/W+0 Friday June 5th, 2020 6:25:01 PM "Faelar, you mind if I ask you a question?" Siggy scratches his cheek as he muses, "Whaddaya think the council would say 'bout settlin' the southern border? Near Izen. Pushin' civilization forward'n all that. Think they'd be keen to it? Lend a hand settin' up a new town if it meant bein' a buffer with the badlands? Just spitballin'."
DM Mitch Friday June 5th, 2020 7:50:54 PM
To the thanks of the group Zelphar says, “You are all most certainly welcome.”
When Lothlo asks about proper decorum, Zelphar replies, “The council generally has a number of topics to discuss, debate and vote over when it meets in session. Your caravan will not be the only thing we meet to discuss tomorrow. Please be patient and be prepared to wait. You will be called to enter the antechamber when you are the next topic of discussion. Be aware that if we do get to the topic of the caravan it is possible we may not be able to vote on it tomorrow and will have to reconvene the day after to take the vote and resolve any other unfinished business left on the docket. Impatience and Rudeness are not appreciated but I do not think we have to worry about that coming from you after this meeting. Generally we meet for several hours multiple times a week. Our first meeting for this week is tomorrow and based on the things we are discussing I think there is a high probability that we do get to the caravan to discuss. Whether we have enough time to take the vote is another matter but I think we can reach a decision regarding your situation in a day or two maximum. While I have been rather frank with you here in referring to my fellow councilors by their given names generally petitioners address us councilors using our family names. Therefore I would be Councilor Ilimys, Mastakara would be Councilor Woldrock, Maeralya would be Councilor Cardithas, Faelar would be Councilor Waesberos and Haldir would be Councilor Pagolor. I think that covers proper decorum.”
He considers Sigismund’s question carefully before answering. [b]”It’s possible but complicated. The problem is twofold - first there is only one trade road on the plains which already has two towns along it, Kovri and Waypoint. If you tried to build anywhere along that road you would be setting yourself directly in competition with those two towns and it is unlikely you would be able to find a good enough location to out-compete them.
The second problem is of course the tribes of the Izen. Kovri is mostly in the woods and both towns have dedicated forts to protect them. If you were to try to strike out and expand the borders away from the trade road you’d be presenting a soft target for the tribes of the Izen to raid. Without fear of the wood or the might of a military fort to back you I fear it would prove difficult to protect yourselves.
When Zazu asks Zelphar for any other advice the elder elf looks at the younger elf and says, “Try the stew if you haven’t. It is really good here. Also be true to yourselves and tell the truth when you are meeting with the council tomorrow. Now if you’ll excuse me I must be off. Castien, please escort me home.”
Castien gets up from his spot near the fireplace and opens the door to your suite for Zelphar. The two leave together and in comes Delilah who had excused herself when she saw Castien on the other side of the door.
The dwarf asks (after realizing just who the elderly elf was that was leaving the room) “I don’t suppose you would care to tell me what that was all about? As Castien is to Councilor Ilimys I am to another member of the Council. News of what transpired here may be of interest to them and if you tell me and I tell them they may be able to make doing so worth your while.”
Ash (RobC) -- AC 12/12/10 -- CMD 13 -- HP 25/25 Friday June 5th, 2020 10:12:52 PM
Delilah has been nice and all, but if Zelphar wanted to keep things discreet then Ash isn't about to blow his cover. Especially if his vote is one of the three they already need. She also doesn't want to tell Delilah that it was none of her business. Best to try and keep things civil.
"Councilor Ilimys was being really kind in welcoming us to town and letting us know that we have been given permission to have our case heard in the council meeting tomorrow. Although he did say it would depended on how long other cases took, so it might mean we are here for a few days. Oh, and he has recommended the stew for dinner tonight. I'm not so sure though. That sandwich earlier was really good"
Everything she has said is true, especially the part about the sandwich.
"Who is it that you represent? Would they like to join us for dinner? I mean, if the council are paying for the rooms and food it would be rude of us not to extend an invitation"
Zazu (AC18, HP18/18) and Boyo the bunny (AC15, HP9/9) (Cayzle) Saturday June 6th, 2020 10:41:17 AM
It does not occur to Zazu to prevaricate, but Ash has covered all the basics. "Yeah, he was super nice, answered our questions, and gave us advice on how to address the people tomorrow -- as "Councilor" with their last name. Like he would be "Councilor Ilimys."
"Do you have any advice for us, on what to say to the Council? You know what we want, right? Permission to settle our people in a new village in the Emerald Kingdom."
Lothlo (WillD) -- AC: 19/15/14, HP: 28/28, CMD: 20 Saturday June 6th, 2020 9:18:43 PM
Lothlo agrees with Ash, it would be terrible to betray Councilor Ilimys' trust, and without knowing who the dwarf is assisting it is much more likely that sharing anything will back fire. Instead, he continues on with dinner discussions.
As good as that sandwich may have looked, I can vouch for the beef stew. The meat was cooked perfectly to the point it seemed to just melt in your mouth, and it leaves your belly feeling warm, full and happy. Still, two more bowls for dinner might be overkill, so maybe I'll try the sandwich.
Sigismund Brauer (Tanner) -- HP 35 | AC 18/11/16 | CMD 20 | F+6/R+3/W+0 Sunday June 7th, 2020 4:54:56 PM
Siggy nods to Zelphar's response and continues listening, occasionally sucking at his teeth in thought.
DM Mitch Monday June 8th, 2020 6:56:54 AM Ash avoids going into the details Zazu says he just told them about protocol during the meeting Lothlo exclaims the virtue of the stew Sigismund nods and keeps listening.
Delilah says to Ash, “I represent Councilor Woldrock who unfortunately has a prior commitment tonight and whose schedule is very busy tomorrow, but your offer for her to dine with you is noted and appreciated.”
Delilah says to Zazu, “Do you know specifically where you want to settle or at least have a general idea? Some of the Councilors may react differently depending on where in the Emerald Kingdom specifically you are looking at settling.”
Delilah says to Lothlo, “In my opinion both the sandwiches and the stew are good here. I feel the ale is a little weak in comparison to Dwarven Ale though so that is why I prefer the wine. They have some bottles from Councilor Woldrock’s vineyard set aside specifically for Councilor Woldrock or myself and that is the vintage I was drinking earlier. Her vineyard is special for it is the only place in the Emerald Kingdom where this specific type of grape is grown. The wine this grape produces is exceptionally potent but it is probably the best drink a dwarf can get local to the Kingdom as the types of mushrooms that help provide Dwarven Ale its kick don’t grow here. I mean Dwarven ale still uses hops, barley and yeast but the mushrooms are that special ingredient that gives it such a high alcohol by volume. If you want I can get you a bottle of Councilor Woldrock’s wine for dinner tonight but drink at your own risk for it really isn’t for those with weak constitutions.”
Zazu (AC18, HP18/18) and Boyo the bunny (AC15, HP9/9) (Cayzle) Monday June 8th, 2020 7:23:37 AM
Zazu nods, smiles, and politely declines the kindly offer of the potent wine. His eyes light up when Delilah asks him where they would like to settle.
"First of all and most important," Zazu says, "we want to contribute to making the Emerald Kingdom stronger by settling in a place where no one else is living. Our top priority is to not be a burden or drain. Instead, we want to produce something valuable so we can trade, and raise enough food to feed ourselves as soon as we can."
"We're not destitute. We have some resources that will help us to get settled. We're really asking for permission, not material aid."
"Second, it would be nice to have a bit of open sky. So maybe settling next to a lake or river? That's a lower priority."
"Third, and this is my personal bias, I do love the magical Culverwood, and would love to live on the edge of the so-called tamed areas, maybe on the border just inside the Emerald Kingdom, where the magic of the living forest still holds sway. I was born in the Culverwood, so to me it seems like home. And I think we are more likely to come up with some unique export if there is magic in the air."
Zazu looks around at the party, wondering if anyone else will agree on this point, or if no one else really wants to live near the magical forest. The elf thinks he probably should have polled everybody else on this point before speaking, but at least that can happen before the Council Meeting, as soon as Delilah departs.
Naithi (JamesD) AC: 19/14/17 HP: 18/18 , CMD = 16 Monday June 8th, 2020 2:04:14 PM
I continue scratching Camalayaas ear. Somewhere that offers protection from the orcs would also be appreciated. I'm sure none of the tines are happy we escaped. They may wish to make an example of us.
Ash (RobC) -- AC 12/12/10 -- CMD 13 -- HP 25/25 Monday June 8th, 2020 8:31:09 PM "Weak ale you say?" she smiles and looks to Siggy "Seems there might be an opening for a good brewer in the region."
That might be a good opening or way to help encourage Councilor Woldrock's vote too. Of course, if we expect his vote then we shouldn't be making any wines. Perhaps we could also start a vineyard and trade him the grapes? It does lead Ash to a certain line of thinking: what could the group offer to the Councilors personally and not just the city?
"One of the areas that we noticed on a map was by a lake between Ferry and the Red Hills. Do you know much about that place? If memory serves, there are no other settlements out that way which means we would have space to grow. We wouldn't have to compete for any natural resources there which would allow us to be more self-sufficient.
It also means we could establish ourselves on a route from the Red Hills to the Emerald City. The more roads that lead here the more trade for the City. That would certainly be a win.
Murzush has said that the orcs among us would prefer an open area, so we need to consider that too."
She looks to Zazu "I would be a little wary about settling too close to the Culverwood. It's a very unpredictable place, filled with good and bad. We wouldn't necessarily be able to see trouble coming from a distance."
To Ash, that lake area sounds like the ideal place to settle. Plus, who doesn't want to have a house by a lake?
Lothlo (WillD) -- AC: 19/15/14, HP: 28/28, CMD: 20 Monday June 8th, 2020 9:58:08 PM
Lothlo considers the wine. Normally I would love to try that wine, but considering the serious nature of our request, I think it's best to save any drinks that come with a word of warning for another time. And I think my friends have pretty much covered everything else.
Niall (JonL) HP: 18/24 AC: 17/11/16 Tuesday June 9th, 2020 8:00:30 AM
"a lake or river would be ideal I think just for the ease of access to water?" Niall suggests with a shrug. "but I'm no settler. I just get thirsty."
DM Mitch Tuesday June 9th, 2020 8:05:18 AM Zazu mentions 3 things he's interested in when it comes to location
Naithi adds that a place away from the orcs would be nice.
Ash speculates on what skills and services they could provide and asks about the lake.
Lothlo says he'd better stay sober until the meeting.
Delilah says to Zazu, “What skills have your group that would enable you to produce something valuable? Do you have any farmers among you to raise the food to sustain your settlement? There are places near lakes and rivers available and many places near the Culverwood though I’m not sure how many places have both a body of water nearby and the deep culverwood as well.”
Delilah says to Naithi, “If you want protection from the Orcs that aren’t with you then you’d want to put as much land as you could between yourselves and the red hills. Occasionally a tribe gets it in its head to violate the border, sometimes the patrols catch the marauders and they are repelled or slain, other times the patrols are in the wrong place and the marauders can pillage without much of a fight. Anyplace you settle near the red hills could open you up to an orc attack. Conversely I think the culver wood is fairly far away from the orc lands that you could settle on its borders and not have to worry as much about orcs, the woods itself though would be another matter.”
Delilah says to Ash, “For a dwarf, the ale that humans and elves brew is weak.”
When asked about the lake between Ferry and Red Hills Delilah says, “Aye, I know the place but I don’t know if you’ll want to be settling there. For one thing it is on a flood plain. That’s why the plans for the original settlement were scrapped. For another it is in close proximity to the red hills potentially inviting the kinds of orcish company you are seeking to avoid. I mean now that I think of it I think I do know of a rather large parcel of land with room to grow split by the Lygn river. It is near the Deep Culverwood. The thing is though unlike the other pieces of land near the Culverwood this one could potentially yield a profit from the selling of the land to a developer. No one is interested in it right now but the river gives it a potential few other places that border the culverwood have. Anyone settling there wouldn’t need a traderoad. They could become the farthest point outside the Culverwood on the Lygn river in the Tame Lands. I’m not sure how many boats would want to travel that far down the Lygn or how many merchants are foolhardy enough to sail through the Culverwood to get to the Tame Lands but assuming there were enough someone could have quite the little trading post. The question would then become would the council like you enough to offer you that particular parcel of land? I honestly can’t say. Councilor Illimys seems to like you well enough though based on your reports.”
To all those refusing the bottle of wine Delilah says, “Very well. Suit yourselves. Though you may not get the chance to sample it again anytime soon. Now, shall I escort you back to the common room for dinner?”
Sigismund Brauer (Tanner) -- HP 35 | AC 18/11/16 | CMD 20 | F+6/R+3/W+0 Tuesday June 9th, 2020 11:22:18 AM "I'm feelin' pretty itchy over the thought of the Culverwood. Both're deadly, but greenskins're predictable. Those murder-trees can change their minds'n decide yer not welcome just out of the blue. I'll take obvious'n deadly over mysterious'n deadly any day." Siggy sniffs. "Besides, we don't want any crazy nature worshippin' kooks interferin' when we need to chop down trees."
Zazu (AC18, HP18/18) and Boyo the bunny (AC15, HP9/9) (Cayzle) Tuesday June 9th, 2020 12:21:02 PM
Zazu stares daggers at Siggy. "Hey! That's my home you are talking about, and I'm one of those kooks!"
Boyo wriggles out of a pocket and tries to thump the minotaur. It is like being attacked by a very small pillow.
Lothlo (WillD) -- AC: 19/15/14, HP: 28/28, CMD: 20 Tuesday June 9th, 2020 9:01:39 PM
Lothlo turns to the one person who can best speak on which options are best suited for them.
Murzush, do any of these options sound particularly well suited for your people? And just as importantly, are there any you feel are a particularly bad fit for them? Your people are hard working and resilient, I don't doubt you could make any of these options work, but we also want to make sure you find a place you will be happy in.
Niall (JonL) HP: 18/24 AC: 17/11/16 Tuesday June 9th, 2020 9:14:15 PM
"happy, safe, resources available.. all of these things" Niall says and rubs at his face. "makes my head hurt."
Sigismund Brauer (Tanner) -- HP 35 | AC 18/11/16 | CMD 20 | F+6/R+3/W+0 Tuesday June 9th, 2020 10:56:22 PM "Well don't get yer dander up!" Siggy rubs his arm in a token fashion. "I just don't think we should have to bootlick to find a place in this world. Whether it's a council in a fancy city with laws'n regulations or a magic tree with sensitive feelin's... bootlickin' is bootlickin'."
Ash (RobC) -- AC 12/12/10 -- CMD 13 -- HP 25/25 Tuesday June 9th, 2020 11:18:38 PM "Ah, but that's what makes that area suitable" Ash grins to Delilah "If it's an area that the council don't particularly see value in then it would be easier for us to get permission to use it. They would be turning an unwanted area of land into something that generates trade and revenue. That would make very good business sense I would think. Besides, there are ways to help minimise flood risks too"
Ash doesn't disagree with concerns about the Culverwood but does wince a little at the 'greenskin' comment. A lot of people have ill-will towards orcs and that will take time to change, but with Murzush here trying to make a difference, well, best to give them a chance and not throw any insults - intended or otherwise.
She looks quizically to Siggy, genuinely confused, and then leans in close to him to whisper. "Delilah is an emissary to one of the council members. You know, the people we want to give us some land. Probably best not to refer to following any reasonable laws as bootlicking."
Ash smiles and nods in agreement with Lothlo "Agreed. Do you think your people would have any preferences, Murzush? You mentioned earlier that they would prefer some open space, but anything else we should consider?"
Naithi (JamesD) AC: 19/14/17 HP: 18/18 , CMD = 16 Tuesday June 9th, 2020 11:40:16 PM
I sit back a listen Murzush's response, having already had my say.
DM Mitch Wednesday June 10th, 2020 8:25:22 AM
There is a small skirmish between Sigismund and Zazu and his bunnie companion.
Lothlo asks Murzush if any of the options are particularly well suited to her people.
Niall suggests wherever they settle should be happy, safe with resources available and announces her head hurts.
Sigis says he just wants to avoid bootlicking.
Ash points out, in a whisper, that he probably shouldn’t insult the group with a representative right there in front of them. She also points out area’s of little value that could be improved are likely their best bet before turning to Murzush to hear her say.
Naithi waits for Murzush’s response.
Murzush says to Lothlo, “We’re not really picky so long as we can forge the better life we’ve been looking for. We can adapt to wherever we end up settling. Near Izen, Near a lake, Near the Culverwood, in a clearing; wherever. We can make it work. Didn’t Zazu say something about an abandoned orchard at one point when he was going on and on about his idea of finding some magical resource in the Culverwood that could be monetized? I mean we don’t have to settle there but might it have food and shelter?”
Delilah ushers the party and Murzush back to the dining room. It appears to be a different group of people than earlier.
A number of large parties sit at the various tables in the room, many enjoying large steins of beer and family style dining of various food items piled high on plates. There is fried chicken, buttered noodles, pickled beats, cottage cheese, fresh bread, butter, bowls of hearty soup, green beans almondine, mashed potatoes, squash and a cranberry chutney. There is also bratwurst, sauerbraten and schnitzel.
Delilah says, “I forgot its family dining night. You can still order off the normal menu but if you are only going to be here for a short time, I’d recommend the family style chicken dinner. It is pretty good.”
(OOC: yes I based the menu off of a place I know)
Lothlo (WillD) -- AC: 19/15/14, HP: 28/28, CMD: 20 Wednesday June 10th, 2020 9:02:03 PM That orchard sounds like a good idea, and an orchard takes a long time to bring up from scratch. If you are able to settle there I bet you would be able to have it thriving in now time.
Lothlo looks around at the family style meals that people seem to be enjoying.
That chicken dinner does smell really good, I'm looking forward to trying it. And schnitzel! Everything looks wonderful.
Zazu (AC18, HP18/18) and Boyo the bunny (AC15, HP9/9) (Cayzle) Wednesday June 10th, 2020 10:21:09 PM
Zazu thinks that with the right magic, maybe it would be easier to grow an orchard than Lothlo thinks, but that's a topic for another day.
The elf just enjoys the food and thanks Delilah.
The squash and green beans go to Boyo.
Ash (RobC) -- AC 12/12/10 -- CMD 13 -- HP 25/25 d20+4=9 ; Wednesday June 10th, 2020 10:34:43 PM
Ash looks around the tavern to see if there is a table big enough to sit the group together. Assuming one is found she tries to take a seat that gives her the biggest view of all the goings-on. She doesn't suspect anything. She just wants to see people and smile to them.
For dinner she orders the stew off the menu. It seems to get spoken of quite a lot and she wants to see what all the fuss is about. She can't help but feel a little guilty though. Back at Kovri there are people eating plain rations.
Ash focuses back on the matter at hand and tries to strike up a casual conversation with Delilah. "So emissary to Councilor Woldrock, huh? Bet you hear all sorts of things. What's your take on the other Councilors? Are they all as friendly as Councilor Ilimys?" The party have heard from Zelphar but Ash is still unsure. He might have interests of his own. She remembers her father telling her something about politicians always lying, but hopefully Zelphar will be the exception to the rule. Best to get views from everyone. If anything, she might learn where there are some political rivalries.
Sense Motive: 9
Sigismund Brauer (Tanner) -- HP 35 | AC 18/11/16 | CMD 20 | F+6/R+3/W+0 Wednesday June 10th, 2020 11:38:50 PM
OOC: The menu reminds me of Hofbrauhaus.
Siggy eats an obscene amount of bratwurst, sauerbraten, and schnitzel. Enough to scare small children.
Niall (JonL) HP: 18/24 AC: 17/11/16 Thursday June 11th, 2020 8:44:19 AM
Niall does not eat as much as Sig, but he manages to pack a fair amount away with many compliments to the cook.
DM Mitch Thursday June 11th, 2020 9:24:55 AM Lothlo thinks the orchard might be a good idea and opts for the family style meal.
Zazu thinks that with the right magic it might be easy to grow an orchard but saves it for later. He enjoys the food and thanks Delilah saving the veggies for Boyo
Ash is able to find a table large enough to accommodate the party and she secures herself a spot where she can see the going ons of the dining room. For the most part there are parties of various sizes at the other tables. Many are enjoying the family style meal while others are having other fair off the menu. The busy waitstaff is managing to keep everyone supplied with food and drink. As she orders the stew she feels a little guilty for the people eating plain rations back at the caravan. She asks Delilah what her opinion is of the other councilors.
Sigismund eats an obscene amount of bratwurst, sauerbraten and schnitzel. (OOC: there is this city called Frankenmuth in Michigan that has kind of connected local restaurants where you can get a family style chicken dinner with or without other meats. There is a restaurant my family goes to sometimes called the Bavarian Inn and I pretty much based the dinner off of their world famous chicken dinners)
Delilah considers Ash’s question while she arranges for a goblet of wine to go with her family style dinner.
“Well Councilor Illimys’s style is certainly different from Councilor Woldrock but they have different backgrounds. I mean not that there is anything wrong with that. Different people just do things differently. Councilor Illimys’s family has lived in the Emerald Kingdom for a long time whereas Councilor Woldrock’s family are more recent transplants comparatively. Councilor Woldrock as I’ve said comes from a dwarf noble house who relocated to the Emerald Kingdom in exile. Councilor Woldrock was listless growing up until she found her passion in becoming a councilor and leading as she has always felt was her birthright. Councilor Cardithas is an interesting councilor as she is a bloodwitch and druid but that doesn’t seem to get in the way of her being elected. Emissary Vulmer is Councilor Waesberos nephew and also his emissary of choice. He’s somewhat of traditionalist. This isn’t to say I don’t believe he doesn’t do what he feels is best for the Emerald Kingdom but I’m not sure how he feels about change. Councilor Pagolor was recently elected. His support seems to come from large sections of the cities. He is a half-elf of course and I think he prefers the human side of his heritage considering even though his first name is Haldir when he drops the formalities he likes to go by Hal.”
She takes a moment to consider the question if they are all as nice as Councilor Illimys and says, “Well when you have a council of 5 people empowered to make decisions for a significantly larger amount of people, you do tend to get disagreements sometimes. Sometimes though people who voted together on one issue are on opposite sides of other issues. Councilor Illimys seems to be generally liked by a majority of the Emerald Kingdom. He has developed a reputation for treating fairly and has been on the council for a long time. Council Woldrock while not exactly new to the council does have somewhat of an air of nobility around her, I suppose when you have elections this turns some people off but I’ve never had a problem with it though I’ve known her all my life. Councilor Cardithas is somewhat of a mystic. Some people like that and some people don’t. Councilor Waesboros is the second longest serving member after Councilor Illimys. As I’ve said he’s somewhat of a traditionalist. Many elves seem to like that. Councilor Pagolor got elected in part because he isn’t so much of a traditionalist. I mean who knows if he will govern the way he campaigns as he is still relatively new to the role but he could potentially shake things up.”
Dinner goes off fairly well. Everyone gets what they ordered whether it is the stew or the family style dinner option. Everyone is able to eat their fill and for dessert an orange and vanilla custard with ginger cookies are brought out.
Eventually it becomes time to head back to the Trinity suite. Delilah takes you back. As mentioned previously these suites are connected by a common room behind a door with a carved clover. There is a fireplace and ample seating in the common room and a door leading to a bedroom on each wall minus the one the entrance is on. Delilah sits down on one of the chairs in the common room and starts reading a book.
You chose three rooms because you wanted to have people be together and enable you to set a watch if you wanted. Who is sleeping where and what kind of watch will you set? (order, positioning?)
Zazu (AC18, HP18/18) and Boyo the bunny (AC15, HP9/9) (Cayzle) Thursday June 11th, 2020 4:55:39 PM
Zazu and Boyo take the first room on the right. They'll share with anybody.
Being early birds, they'll take the last watch and just rise for the day before the sun.
Niall (JonL) HP: 18/24 AC: 17/11/16 Thursday June 11th, 2020 7:47:39 PM
Niall will share with Zazu to make it easy and take first watch.
Zazu (AC18, HP18/18) and Boyo the bunny (AC15, HP9/9) (Cayzle) Thursday June 11th, 2020 8:36:00 PM
Niall finds himself snuggling a friend in the night. No! It's not Zazu, who is shy. It's Boyo! So cute and snuggly!
Lothlo (WillD) -- AC: 19/15/14, HP: 28/28, CMD: 20 Thursday June 11th, 2020 9:07:18 PM I'm fine with any shift, I'm not particularly expecting anything crazy to happen tonight and the chairs look comfortable. I have good line of sight to the door from one, I don't think anyone could slip in without us knowing.
Ash (RobC) -- AC 12/12/10 -- CMD 13 -- HP 25/25 Thursday June 11th, 2020 9:15:40 PM
So looks like Delilah isn't going anywhere.
"Hey Naithi. Wanna bunk together? Murzush? You in?"
Before bedding down, Ash calls up Mike and Brianna on the cauldro-phone to get an update as to what is happening back at Kovri. She let's them know that the group have secured a meeting with the council the next day. She doesn't tell them about the smorgasbord of food.
Ash has no preference on which watch she gets. If the group aren't shy they could sleep with the doors open to the common room.
--------------- OOC: "Members of a coven can commune with other coven members on the same plane once per day for up to one hour through a cauldron. This communication, activated as a spell-like ability by the bloodwitch, causes cauldrons within 50 feet of coven members to resound distinctively. When communing in this way, each participating coven member can see and hear each other faintly in the cauldron"
Naithi (JamesD) AC: 19/14/17 HP: 18/18 , CMD = 16 Friday June 12th, 2020 12:26:35 AM
ooc: I keep forgetting Ash is a girl
I finish eating my stew and sampling the various desserts. When Ash invites me to share a room I'm happy to feel included. Sure, as long as Camalayaas and Fizzgig are welcome. They can help keep watch as well... I've always wanted to stay in a hotel. This should be fun!
DM Mitch Friday June 12th, 2020 7:41:15 AM Zazu, Boyo and Niall take the first room on the right. Boyo snuggles with Niall. Zazu and Boyo have last watch.
Lothlo volunteers for any room with any shift.
Ash suggests Naithi and Murzush bunk with her. She calls up Brianna and Mike on the old cauldron.
Naithi says yes.
Murzush says, “I’m not picky. That bedroom arrangement is as fine as any other. I’ll also fill in wherever I’m needed in the watch order.
The night passes quietly with the heroes relieving each other from watches and eventually Delilah is relieved by Kaylin who is in turn relieved by Ena.
For the most part the Emissaries sit in one of the chairs when they are on watch themselves reading a book. The next morning when you make your way out into the common room for breakfast the innkeeper asks, “All right which one of you thought it would be funny to cause our cauldrons to make weird noises? Our cook staff almost died of fright while cleaning them. I mean a lot of other people here were regulars and this is the first time you lot stayed with us.”
The council doesn’t meet till the afternoon so you could probably take some time early in the day to do whatever else you wanted or needed to do while visiting the Emerald City..
Niall (JonL) HP: 18/24 AC: 17/11/16 Friday June 12th, 2020 4:11:03 PM
Maybe they did this already if so dismiss but.. Niall suggests that maybe they spend part of the morning with bathing.
He smells like Boyo. Not the way to meet a council.
Sigismund Brauer (Tanner) -- HP 35 | AC 18/11/16 | CMD 20 | F+6/R+3/W+0 Friday June 12th, 2020 7:20:28 PM
OOC: I have been to that restaurant! Frankenmuth is lovely. We lived in Michigan for a time when I was a child. We all have personalized Christmas ornaments from Bronner's. :)
Siggy is happy to sleep in any room. His sleep is a deep, black coma from all of the food.
In the morning he is still burping from dinner, and has a light breakfast of porridge.
Zazu (AC18, HP18/18) and Boyo the bunny (AC15, HP9/9) (Cayzle) Friday June 12th, 2020 7:54:46 PM
Hey! Boyo is not smelly! He gets prestidigitized every day!
Zazu wants to use the morning to refresh bookmaking and trapcrafting supplies. But ... no coins.
"Can anyone lend me some money for shopping?" the shopper-wanna-be asks.
Zazu thinks a bit ... "Should we buy gifts for the council members?"
Lothlo (WillD) -- AC: 19/15/14, HP: 28/28, CMD: 20 Friday June 12th, 2020 9:05:02 PM
Lothlo joins the others, looking forward to a hot breakfast with a strong cup of coffee. I showered before I came down, after our times in the slave camp I may never miss an opportunity to shower again in my life. Oh, Zane, speaking of money did we ever agree on how to split up what we found? I'm a little confused at this point on if we decided or tabled that discussion until we had more time.
I don't think we should buy gifts for the council, I feel like the counselor would have mentioned it if it was appropriate, and the last thing we want is for it to be interpreted as a bribe.
Ash (RobC) -- AC 12/12/10 -- CMD 13 -- HP 25/25 Friday June 12th, 2020 9:39:42 PM "That was me" Ash fronts the innkeeper "Sorry, just needed to check on things back home. We've got a whole lot of people depending on us here today to try and find them a new home. Didn't mean to scare anyone. Tell you what, I'll only do it around lunch time. No more night calls. If you have a room more than 50ft away from other cauldrons I could do it there?"
Assuming the call went well and there was nothing to report from Kovri she joins the others for a light breakfast. Toast and jams if she can find them.
Bathing sounds good. "Good idea, Niall. Best we look - and smell - nice today"
As to Zazu's idea of shopping, Ash is right on board. "We could sell all of those weapons and things we got off those orc guards. I'm sure there has to be a shop around here somewhere." She's really not sure on the protocol of this place. Should they bring gifts to the council members? Would it be considered a bribe or something? Perhaps one of the emmisaries could help.
------------------ OOC: ROFL! Thinking Ash was a guy takes that whole 'bunk' invitation to Naithi in a completely different direction!
Loot list sent via email
Sigismund Brauer (Tanner) -- HP 35 | AC 18/11/16 | CMD 20 | F+6/R+3/W+0 Sunday June 14th, 2020 8:29:14 PM
Siggy wipes a bit of porridge from his mouth with a napkin and pushes his bowl to the center of the table. "I don't know about buyin' gifts fer the council members. It's a great idea, Zazu, don't get me wrong, but I don't think we have enough spendin' money to get gifts that would impress 'em. Now, if we had that idea before we left, we could've had one of the orc pups make a collage or finger-paint or somethin'. Pull at their heartstrings'n show they're not all savages. 'I'm so excited fer me'n momma to have our own place to live!' You know, somethin' like that. Right now, I think we should just focus on presentin' ourselves as competent. Think of this like a first date rather than makin' a plea." The big minotaur winks. "Confidence, darlin'. Confidence."
DM Mitch Monday June 15th, 2020 8:11:47 AM Niall will spend part of the morning bathing. Regardless of how prestidigitized a bunny is probably best not to go to the council smelling like one.
Zazu wants to use the morning to refresh his bookmaking and trap crafting supplies but his funds are a little short. He asks if anyone can lend money and suggests buying the council members gifts.
Lothlo bathed before coming down. He has strong coffee and asks about how they distributed their previous spoils. He also suggests not gifting the council anything as it could be seen as a bribe.
Ash apologizes to the InnKeep. She offers to make no more night calls and asks if he has a room greater than 50 feet away from the kitchen she could use. She agrees with the bathing sentiment and suggests selling the spoils to fund shopping. She looks to one of the Emissaries to sort out the whole gifting conundrum. Ash got a positive report from her coven. No major conflicts or anything as yet between the orcs and non-orcs.
Sigismund has a light breakfast of porridge. He opines that they probably wouldn’t be able to gift the council impressive gifts and if they would have thought of it sooner they could have had the orc kids make a finger painting.
The innkeep nods at Ash and says, “Aye. There is a broom closet on the third floor you can use that won’t disrupt the kitchen.”
Kaylin, Delilah and Ona have all joined the party at breakfast and Delilah says to the topic of a gift, “Petitioners have been known to present the council with a gift, but Sigismund is correct regarding being able to impress them with your current resource level. A finger painting from a bunch of orc children might have been appropriate had you brought one but you hadn’t so probably best just to do as Sigismund suggests and go confidently.”
Baths are had, shopping is done, restocking of supplies happens. The morning passes quickly and before long it is lunchtime again. Any last preparations before you head to the afternoon council meeting?
(OOC: your catacomb’s purchases / shopping can be as we move things along)
Niall (JonL) HP: 18/24 AC: 17/11/16 Monday June 15th, 2020 4:07:03 PM
Niall is as ready as he will ever be.
Lothlo (WillD) -- AC: 19/15/14, HP: 28/28, CMD: 20 Monday June 15th, 2020 9:01:45 PM
Lothlo finishes his cup of coffee as the group makes final preparations.. If there is an entrance to the catacombs I think I may quickly pop my head in and place an order before we had over, other than that I think I'm ready.
Ash (RobC) -- AC 12/12/10 -- CMD 13 -- HP 25/25 Monday June 15th, 2020 9:46:31 PM "Should we front the council carrying all our weapons and armor and things? I'm really not sure what the custom is here."
Ash presumes there will be a few guards there and that they might not look too kindly on an armed party entering.
After lunch, true to her word, she will go find that broom closet and call up Mike and Brianna again. She plans to do this every day that she is away from them to keep tabs on things.
Before heading to the council meeting, Ash will cast Prestidigitation on whoever wants it. She wants to make sure that everything looks clean and presentable. Turning up with shirts covered in locust guts probably wouldn't help the cause.
------------- OOC: Please see the spreadsheet for the loot split. Everyone should make it to WBL 1,865.1gp
Zazu (AC18, HP18/18) and Boyo the bunny (AC15, HP9/9) (Cayzle) Monday June 15th, 2020 10:34:41 PM
"Oh, I'm happy now, Ash! With this money I can get me and Boyo looking good!"
Zazu spends the morning shopping and getting spiffied up, and with that loot, manages to refresh crafting gear and buy new clothes.
Boyo gets a darling light green ribbon. Heck, so does Zazu! Black pants and shirt, black leather gloves and soft boots, dark green vest, light green bowtie and a matching light green hair ribbon. "Looking good!"
[OOC: removing 100 gp for clothes and supplies, adding gold to my sheet. already had the CMW potion listed.]
"I'm ready!"
Sigismund Brauer (Tanner) -- HP 35 | AC 18/11/16 | CMD 20 | F+6/R+3/W+0 Monday June 15th, 2020 11:34:54 PM
Siggy is ready. "Stay frosty." He smiles. "I figure our weapons're gonna be peace-bound. No biggie."
DM Mitch Tuesday June 16th, 2020 8:38:01 AM Niall is as ready as he ever will be. Lothlo finishes his coffee and visits the catacombs. Ash questions the wisdom in carrying all their weapons and armor and things when going before the council. She also goes up to the broom closet on the third floor to Cauldron home and spiffs up anyone that wants it using prestidigitation. Zazu purchases supplies and new duds. He even puts a little green ribbon on Boyo. Sigismund figures that their weapons will be peacebound.
Ash learns from her call that things are still going ok back at Camp
With everything taken care of the party and Muzrush heads off the council chamber, Ena, Delilah and Kaylin at your side.
Despite the large number of people on the streets of this busy city you are able to make good time in reaching the hall where the council chamber meets and in fact you are even early which is great because what do you know they have a security checkpoint.
People from all over the Wold come to the Emerald City and as luck would have it they have members of the Guard who hail from Dirt City who know all about the peacebonding process as that is how one enters the city below in Dirt City. Your weapons are peace bonded as you make your way through the long but quickly moving line.
From the outside the council hall looked like a grand building built of quarried stone with stained glass windows and from the inside it is equally impressive.
A number of decorated Marble columns line the wall providing support and artistically showing various scenes from Woldian history.
You are in a rather large hall with chairs spread out, a reception desk and various other petitions loitering about the hall as well. Overall not a bad place to have to spend a significant amount of time waiting for your turn to go before the council.
As you are just about to settle in for the long haul a group of four including a halfling, a half-orc, a dwarf and a gnome walk over to where you are waiting and try to strike up a conversation.
“Hey!” the halfling exclaims, “Are you guys petitioners too? We’ve never been here before and we are wondering if you guys might know what to expect.”
Sense Motive: 18 Highlight to display spoiler: {Something seems off about the halfling’s story}
Zazu (AC18, HP18/18) and Boyo the bunny (AC15, HP9/9) (Cayzle) d20+1=9 ; Tuesday June 16th, 2020 9:43:09 AM
Sense Motive check: 9
"Hi you guys! I'm Zazu and this is Boyo. We're here to see the Council."
The neatly dressed elf holds up the bunny. [Imagine the cutest green ribbon too please.]
"He's a handful!"
Inspired by how outgoing Boyo is (look at his little nose go!), Zazu makes an effort to be more extroverted.
"What to expect? Well, I expect we'll stand in a beautiful chamber and talk to important robed people sitting on a raised dais. Maybe they'll wear white wigs and one will have a little hammer. It'll probably be a little scary. What are you all doing here?"
(After the last time, Zazu does not even try to introduce the team.)
Naithi (JamesD) AC: 19/14/17 HP: 18/18 , CMD = 16 Tuesday June 16th, 2020 9:47:13 AM
Ooc: Sorry for the missed posts. We were celebrating our anniversary and then had some drama with our two year old.
Ash (RobC) -- AC 12/12/10 -- CMD 13 -- HP 25/25 d20+4=19 ; Tuesday June 16th, 2020 10:26:44 AM "Hi there! I'm Ash" she reaches out to shake hands with these people. Something isn't adding up about the halfling's story. She can't just call him out on it though. Not in front of everyone. He might just be nervous or trying to understand why the party are here. Instead, she just raises an eyebrow. "Never been here before, huh?"
It's a subtle action just to let him know that she suspects something is up.
"Well we're here to see about getting permission to start a settlement". She figures it isn't really a secret. All of Kovri know, the Fort knows, the emissaries know and people in the tavern would have overheard things. Anyone that was interested would have heard about it by now.
"What are you petitioning for?"
--------------------- Sense Motive vs DC18: 19=Pass
Sigismund Brauer (Tanner) -- HP 35 | AC 18/11/16 | CMD 20 | F+6/R+3/W+0 d20-1=9 ; Tuesday June 16th, 2020 2:20:38 PM "Yer gonna talk to some grand high muckety-mucks. They may like you, or not. They may let you do somethin' or give you somethin', or not. I've never seen much difference between good muckety-mucks'n bad muckety-mucks. They know what they want'n don't let people get in the way of what they want." Siggy shrugs and smiles, "But who knows!? Maybe they'll surprise us'n just let us alone. We're lookin' to make a home'n we want to make sure muckety-mucks ain't gonna interfere."
Naithi (JamesD) AC: 19/14/17 HP: 18/18 , CMD = 16 Tuesday June 16th, 2020 8:54:51 PM
I smile and scratch Fizzgig's head. I asked around a little. We were told to be polite and honest with the council. Oh, and to address the "Councilor" with their last name sick as"Councilor Ilimys. I'm afraid I'm not used to such meetings, but I remember that.
Lothlo (WillD) -- AC: 19/15/14, HP: 28/28, CMD: 20 d20+2=18 ; d20+7=15 ; Tuesday June 16th, 2020 9:11:44 PM
Lothlo also notices something is off about the halfling's story. Since there wasn't much to the story, either the claim they haven't been here before is misleading, or the claim that they are petitioners. Were they sent here to try to get dirt on the party from one of the less promising members of the council in an effort to strengthen a rejection to their request? Or perhaps it's the opposite and they are being examined to make sure they are worthy of having their request granted... or it could just be that they are making a request that butts heads against our request.
The archer glances over the group to try to determine the true nature of who they are and their goals (perception = 15)
Unfortunately we know very little beyond we are making a request a council made up of a group that is highly respected and trusted, and who come from all walks and of are very different mindsets. Still, if they are as respected as we hear then we are hoping they can see we are making a request on behalf of honest, hardworking people that have been oppressed their entire lives, and who's inclusion will will bring many benefits to this land.
sense motive = 18 perception = 15
Niall (JonL) HP: 18/24 AC: 17/11/16 Tuesday June 16th, 2020 9:24:22 PM
Niall nods with the others. "It is our first time here. First time any of us doing something like this. but being respectful and honest is the best policy"
LOG ON