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"
DM Mitch Wednesday June 17th, 2020 8:32:53 AM Zazu introduces himself and Boyo. He tries to guess what the inside of the council chamber will look like and surmises it will be a little scary.
Ash introduces herself and reaches out to shake hands. She senses something is off about the halfling’s story. She explains they are here about asking to found a settlement and asks the reason the other group is here.
Sigismund surmises that they’ll have to deal with a bunch of muckety-mucks and that he hasn’t really seen much difference between good and bad muckety-mucks but maybe they’ll be surprised and get their request and then left alone.
Naithi scratches Fizzgig’s head and mentions they were advised to be polite and honest and to address each councilor formally.
Lothlo also is suspicious of the halfling. He wonders what part of never being here before and petitioning the council is the falsehood and what the other group’s motivation could be. He observes the other group and explains that they know very little besides the fact they are making a request to a respected council that comes from all walks of life and he hopes they’ll be inclined to grant the request of some hardworking people who will enrich the land.
Niall explains it is their first time being here as well but suggests being honest and respectful is the best policy.
The halfling says “Oh we have a business proposition of sorts for the council or at least a part of it. We are representatives from a much larger group looking to start a franchise of our own. Nothing as labor intensive as an entire town, mind you. More of a guild one might say. We just want to expand operations to more towns and cities inside of the Emerald Kingdom considering how well we’ve done predominantly operating near the Emerald City and a few other more developed areas so far.”
The halfling seizes on something Naithi had said, “The Name’s Thomho. Charmed I’m sure. Tell me miss, just who told you to be polite, honest and to address the councilors by their last names if you don’t mind me asking?”
(Lothlo and anyone who makes a DC 15 perception check or DC 24 sense motive : Highlight to display spoiler: {The halfling’s more involved explanation about being franchisees seems true enough, but was there something perhaps a little unsettling in his emphasis on the word ‘guild?’ Also he kind of was a little vague with respect to their request and used some qualifiers. Could what Thomho said be technically true but have another meaning? } )
Zazu (AC18, HP18/18) and Boyo the bunny (AC15, HP9/9) (Cayzle) d20+9=29 ; d20=19 ; Wednesday June 17th, 2020 10:59:20 AM
Perception check: 29!
"Oh, I get it," says Zazu. "Is that question you are asking, friend Thomho, potentially a trap? Because I have a +1 to sense those. I hope you won't tell me it Cant be."
Zazu is clearly trying to pass a secret message. If it is not obvious (though I think it is), he rolls an untrained Bluff check as a 19 [wow, dice roller loves me today].
"Anyhow, I bet I would make a great member of your Guild! Can anyone join? Do you want to have a branch in our town? The only rule would be, no thieving, if you know what I mean."
Sigismund Brauer (Tanner) -- HP 35 | AC 18/11/16 | CMD 20 | F+6/R+3/W+0 Wednesday June 17th, 2020 11:51:17 AM
(OOC: Haha! I thought they were going to be agents of the Council for a 'pre-interview'.)
Siggy smiles and reaches out a hand to the halfling. "Thomho? It's a pleasure. I'm always happy to see folks exercisin' their gods-given right to free enterprise'n enjoyin' the fruits of their labor. You know, yer franchises'n guilds sound pretty similar to somethin' we had back home. I'm from Mudtown. Not many folks 'round here've heard of it. Plenty of good folks, workin' hard fer their livin', but also plenty of rougher sorts. We had a mess of freelancers walkin' around doin' their business. It wasn't pleasant. They didn't follow any rules. Didn't care about the community. Then a guild came in. They had rules, and made the freelancers follow the rules, or the freelancers had consequences. Really cleaned things up! Some folks wished that there weren't freelancers or guilds at all, but you can't always pick yer neighbors. Me and my family? We came to an amicable agreement with the guild. Mutually beneficial, in fact! Would y'all happen to be that kinda guild?"
Naithi (JamesD) AC: 19/14/17 HP: 18/18 , CMD = 16 d20=1 ; Wednesday June 17th, 2020 2:01:10 PM
I allow myself to blush a deep red. Something doesn't feel right, but I have no idea what it is. Actually... It was Zazu that said that. He knows more about etiquite than I do.
I was referencing his post from June 6th.
Ash (RobC) -- AC 12/12/10 -- CMD 13 -- HP 25/25 d20=9 ; d20+4=17 ; Wednesday June 17th, 2020 8:14:08 PM
There's something strange going on here. Ash thought she picked up on something earlier but not now. Zazu though. He thinks something is up. Trap Sense? That could mean one of two things. Either he senses this is a trap or that the halfling can sense traps. That would make him a thief of some kind. Could he be talking about a thieves guild? If so, why are Zazu and Siggy inviting them to join the settlement? Something doesn't add up.
"Being honest and polite just seems like a good idea when trying to get people to help you" Ash smiles "Were you going to try a different approach?"
--------------- Perception check vs DC15: 9 = Fail Sense Motive check vs DC24: 17 = Fail
Lothlo (WillD) -- AC: 19/15/14, HP: 28/28, CMD: 20 d20+3=7 ; Wednesday June 17th, 2020 9:11:16 PM A guild... why do I get the feeling these aren't exactly legitimate businessmen. hmm, do I know of any such guilds where they are from? (knowledge = 7) Lothlo considers the question for half a second. My mom has drilled into me to be polite, honest, and to address elders by their last names since the day I was able to talk. I assumed that was more or less a universal behavior.
knowledge (local) = 7
Niall (JonL) HP: 18/24 AC: 17/11/16 Wednesday June 17th, 2020 9:57:44 PM
"it seems to be common sense. The being polite and honest at least" Niall adds in, "Didnt need to be told it special about the council. As far as how to properly address them it was a local we were talking to at the Inn we are staying at." Niall adds in, politely and honestly, though maybe not specifically.
DM Mitch Thursday June 18th, 2020 7:48:20 AM Zazu understands Thomho’s hidden meaning and responds in kind.
Thomho considers Zazu’s message and says, “Guild membership really depends on the skills of the applicant in question. If an applicant can successfully complete an assessment of their abilities adjudicated by a licensed guild associate, the guild has an opening and the applicant in question seems like they could prove useful then membership is generally granted on a probationary basis. Sadly, none of us are qualified to adjudicate an exam at this time, but that doesn’t mean there won’t be a potential opportunity in the future. As for your offer to allow a franchise of our guild to extend to your town well you would have to secure a town first with which to formally extend an offer, though I’m not quite sure if those above me would agree to your terms.”
Sigismund shakes Thomho’s hand and gives him a brief rundown of his family’s run-in with freelancers and how a guild cleaned things up before asking if they are that kind of guild.
Thomho shakes the minotaur’s hand in kind and says, “Well our guild likes to keep things organized and as we said we are looking to branch out. In some ways we even succeeded in a pleasantly surprising way recently, which should provide plenty of new opportunities for us.”
Ash thinks there is something strange going on here but she can’t put her finger on it. She tries to puzzle out what Zazu is saying and thinks maybe they are the thieves guild but if so why is Zazu and Sigismund inviting them to town? Ash says that being nice and polite is a good idea when asking for help and questions if Thomho has other ideas.
Thomho says to Ash, “Well it honestly depends on what the ask is, what approach one takes. I know they say you catch more flies with honey than you do with vinegar but sometimes one runs out of carrots and all that is left is the stick. However, given the circumstance a more pleasant approach is probably warranted.”
Murzush says, “I don’t know how I feel about this guild. Is it not an expression that thieves have no honor? How can we trust them to not rob us should we invite them into our settlement, especially with my people among you. Might they leave the non-orcs alone to instead prey upon the few possessions my people who traveled here have left. I wonder what a guild of thieves would do for the tenuous peace we have going between our group?”
Thombo says to Murzush, “Now wait just a moment. Who said anything about thieving except for your elf friend with the rabbit? We are just some people having a polite conversation about business, opportunity and etiquette and it isn’t polite to insinuate unpleasant things about those you just met...” he trails off into silence. After a pause he breaks the silence with a smile and says, “but I forgive you.”
Naithi blushes a deep red, sensing something is up but isn’t sure what. She answers that Zazu told her about etiquette.
Lothlo tries to think if he knows of the guild and the area they came from. He also responds that his parents drilled being respectful, polite and addressing elders by their last name as universal behavior.
Lothlo: Highlight to display spoiler: {You’ve heard rumors of suspicious activity cropping up in some of the larger cities in the Emerald Kingdom like the Emerald City}
Niall says the polite and honest part is just common sense but a local at the inn they were staying advised them on the proper way to address the council.
Thomho considers Ash’s, Naithi’s, Lothlo’s and Niall’s answers and says, “I can buy that some of the advice you received is just common knowledge or just good manners. I can also buy that one’s parents would tell one to politely address elders by their last names, but one of your number just said that the advice on addressing the council was echoed from a local at the Inn you are staying and what I want to know is: was that local one of the emissaries you’ve been seen in the company of or someone else and if someone else are they affiliated with any council member and if so who? Answer me those questions and we will be on our way and perhaps when the time comes for the next skill assessment we will reserve a spot for one of you.”
Zazu (AC18, HP18/18) and Boyo the bunny (AC15, HP9/9) (Cayzle) Thursday June 18th, 2020 8:09:36 AM
Zazu tries to smooth things over with Murzush's less than diplomatic words. "Sorry, my friend Murzush is direct and straightforward. Please do not be offended."
When Thomho suggests that there might be the chance to join the Guild in the future, Zazu grins.
"I look forward to the day," Zazu says happily. "I do hope we see each other again. It is nice to make new friends. What are your other friends' names, Thomho? Here, let Boyo give you each a kiss for good luck!" As Thomho introduces each of his friends, Zazu holds the bun-bun up to each rogue and gently touches his nose to whatever part works, a cheek, a mouth, a shirt, whatever.
[OOC to DMs: Highlight to display spoiler: {Zazu is not thinking this, but note that Boyo has the scent ability. Who knows, having a whiff of these fellows may come into play in the future.} Thanks!]
Ash (RobC) -- AC 12/12/10 -- CMD 13 -- HP 25/25 Thursday June 18th, 2020 10:07:19 AM
Ash isn't happy now and is in complete agreement with Murzush. "You seem nice and all, Thomho, but really, we've only just met you. You can buy what we say or not. We can also choose whether we want to answer any questions or not. As for the skill assessment and guild, well, I'm sure you'd agree that it's best not to get involved in something that you don't have all the information on. That's just good business. In terms of setting up shop in our settlement? Well, we would need to discuss that among ourselves first."
Ash turns to look to her friend "Sorry Zazu, I get that you're eager and all, but big decisions that affect the entire community should probably be decided by a group. Maybe we should look at getting a council of our own?"
She turns back to Thomho. "If you'd like to talk to us in more detail about your guild, you're welcome to join us at the inn this evening and we can share a meal. The meals there are quite delicious and the ale isn't bad too. We can talk about what we can offer each other and see if the relationship would be a good fit"
Lothlo (WillD) -- AC: 19/15/14, HP: 28/28, CMD: 20 d20+3=13 ; Thursday June 18th, 2020 9:07:00 PM
Lothlo runs his fingers through his hair at the response. Ahh, so you're just trying to fabricate a rumor to put the pressure on an emissary... I've heard tales of suspicious activity cropping up around here, but I just assumed it wouldn't be carried out so clumsily. Especially by a guild that brags about their assessment of their members abilities. Unfortunately, you haven't passed my skills assessment so I think this about ends our conversation.
Lothlo thinks back to what he knows about the area to try to determine if this kind of pressure is something he should be reporting to the council when they meet knowledge local = 13
Niall (JonL) HP: 18/24 AC: 17/11/16 Thursday June 18th, 2020 10:00:00 PM
"Good day, sir. I wish you the best of luck in your audience" Niall replies with a bow of his head. he said good day!
Naithi (JamesD) AC: 19/14/17 HP: 18/18 , CMD = 16 d20=7 ; Friday June 19th, 2020 12:14:02 AM
I finally put together what everyone is talking about, having grown up far away from such things. If I can do so discretely (I'm not sure the rules on this) I will signal my pets to remember their smells.
Sigismund Brauer (Tanner) -- HP 35 | AC 18/11/16 | CMD 20 | F+6/R+3/W+0 Friday June 19th, 2020 1:39:51 AM
Siggy winces and tries to keep a smile on his face. "It looks like we'll need a raincheck on yer guild. We have to sort some things out. Like you said, we need to build the village first before we start thinkin' about business franchises."
DM Mitch Friday June 19th, 2020 7:33:56 AM Zazu tries to smooth over Murzush’s less than diplomatic words.
Thomho says to Zazu, “Well this here is Thwarg”, he says indicating the half-orc.
Thwarg claps and pets the bunny.
“That one is Glumly” he says indicating the dwarf.
Glumly takes a step back when Zazu holds up Boyo. “allergies…” the Glumly gives by way of explanation.
“The gnome is Crowley.” Crowley attempts to use his speak with animals SLA to talk to Boyo.
“Hello Boyo.” he says directly to the rabbit, “You must be able to get into all types of places little one”
Thomho says, “Yes well our guild could always use new talent and you lot could probably use allies. There are other organizations out there in the Emerald Kingdom that the guild could maybe help protect you from should you run afoul of them. Some of these other organizations might not be as friendly as we are.”
Ash isn’t happy and throws some water on Zazu’s potential interest in the guild. She explains to Thomho that in terms of the skill assessment it is best not to get involved in things where you don’t have all the information. She tells Zazu that it is probably best to discuss things that could affect the whole community and come to decisions as a group and wonders if maybe they need their own council. She then invites Thomho to join them for dinner at the inn later.
Thomho says to Ash, “Say Zazu proved he had what it takes to earn a probational membership in our guild at some point in the future. He wouldn’t necessarily have to climb through the guild ranks. He could be an affiliate of sorts, paying dues, having access to some guild services and even being able to sign up for certain jobs the guilds needed doing. Of course that wouldn’t necessarily mean all jobs and services would be available to him but the guild is flexible in its arrangements. Pay your dues, prove yourself useful, do the occasional favor when asked and that’s all we ask. The rest is up to the individual members themselves. If he were to join us but we didn’t have an official greater presence in your settlement assuming you found one, good luck with that by the way, he could still be a resident of your town and a member of our guild. The two needn’t be mutually exclusive. Hopefully though we could reach an agreement beneficial to everyone. Unfortunately though the four of us have other dinner plans already but secure your settlement and if any of you are still interested in either joining the guild or potentially hosting a branch well then someone from the guild will of course be in touch. The guild has many members and a lot of us are trying to take the initiative, find an edge and prove we are worthy of advancing to a point where we could take more involved tasks. The guild also of course has many eyes.”
Lothlo suggests that their new friends are trying to clumsily fabricate rumors to put pressure on an emissary, saying he’s heard rumors of suspicious activity and then goes further to say that Thomho and company failed his skills assessment.
Thomho raises his hands and says to Lothlo, “You got us all wrong, mate. We don’t need to create a rumor to put pressure on an emissary or councilor in order to get their attention. The guild is doing just fine on the attention front on our own. We are only out for information. All knowledge is worth having and the way the council is set up with the five votes, it is like a game where the rules keep changing and we are just trying to understand the current state of play considering you lot represent another round, if you will, in our game analogy.”
With respect to Lothlo’s dismissive attitude Thomho says, “I don’t think I like your tone. I can respect someone who is confident in their abilities, I’m just not sure if your abilities are the same type as your friend Zazu’s and how well they’d fit in with ours, course if things go south we could always have quite a different type of skills assessment but I’m not sure if you’d care for the results. Again though we’re all friends here and I’m just talking in hypotheticals. You did assume a lot with that there speaking of hypotheticals and you know what they say about assumptions don’t you? Be seeing you.”
Sense Motive 10: Highlight to display spoiler: {He’s telling the truth with respect to just being out for information.}. Lothlo or Know[local] 10 Highlight to display spoiler: {Trying to coerce a councilor or their emissary is something that is frowned on and extortion and blackmail are of course crimes but you would need solid evidence to report it. Claims that so and so is trying to start a rumor aren’t going to cut it. In fact the Emerald City Constabulary do not appreciate having their time wasted so knowingly making an accusation that later turns out to be false carries legal penalties.}
Niall tells Thomho and company good day and wishes them well.
Thomho says, “Good day, Niall and good luck with your request too.”
Naithi tries to signal her pets to remember the smells of Thomho and his friends. Thomho, Glumly and Crowley manage to avoid Naithi’s attempts but Thwarg is equally enchanted by her fury friends as he was Boyo and they manage to catch his scent.
After the 4 of them leave, Murzush says, “I still don’t think we want to get involved with a thieves guild. Then again if the no stealing suggestion within town limits could be enforced my people could probably teach them a thing or two about raiding but we are trying to move beyond that. So what else is there to do here while we wait?”
Zazu (AC18, HP18/18) and Boyo the bunny (AC15, HP9/9) (Cayzle) Friday June 19th, 2020 8:36:08 AM
Boyo says "Hi," to Crowley, as well as, "You know, the master is crazy, but nice. Please be nice to him too." [OOC: Note that as a familiar, Boyo has an Int 7.]
Zazu smiles, shakes hands, and waits for the rogues to walk out of earshot.
Then the elf turns to the others, and the smile falls. Zazu has some strong words for them, especially for the ones who were snarky or rude.
"I try to be kind and gentle to you all, my friends, because you are all so very young, but you just don't know what you are talking about! Look, I have been a slave twice in my life. Once with you all (except Siggy). And before that, when elves were slaves here in the Emerald Kingdom under Parnoth. And you know who were one of the few groups to RESIST the dragon tyrant? That's right, the thieves! They were the freedom fighters. They helped the slaves. They were among the few who fought the monster. They have earned the right to be treated like people."
"When we were starving and cold, who stole blankets and extra rations for us? A thief! When I was sick, who brought me medicine? A thief! Who taught me how to sneak around and listen for the masters and slip a stray biscuit into my pocket? Get the picture?"
"Now, I know you colts and fillies did not know that. They still keep a low profile, as you saw. But maybe next time you won't go being all rude and making assumptions about polite folk you just met."
Zazu stands, with crossed arms, and glares. Even Boyo seems stern, from his shoulder perch.
Ash (RobC) -- AC 12/12/10 -- CMD 13 -- HP 25/25 d20+4=24 ; Friday June 19th, 2020 9:11:40 AM
Ash sighs and glares straight back at Zazu "Not all thieves guilds are beacons of hope to the Wold. Quite the opposite I'd wager. I'm sure you've heard of Dirt City. How do you know this halfling wasn't from the House of Wolves? You didn't even ask! You could have just invited murderers and slavers to our settlement. You could have seen us all enslaved again. Women and children driven into slavery because you leapt in without asking questions and you made assumptions. Think about that a moment, Zazu."
She pauses to let that sink in. "You can't go making unilateral decisions that affect our whole community. If you want to sign up with their guild, the decision is freely yours to make. Noone here would stop you. When it affects others though, we have a responsibility to be cautious and to ask questions and not casually throw out invitations to guilds - who won't even tell us their names - to join us"
With her piece said she huffs and waits for the group to be called.
----------- Sense Motive vs DC10: 24 = Pass Knowl Local vs DC10: Autopass
OOC: Just roleplaying Ash's reaction. Not taking it personal
Lothlo (WillD) -- AC: 19/15/14, HP: 28/28, CMD: 20 d20+2=3 ; Friday June 19th, 2020 9:09:34 PM I don't know that I trust that guy. Sure he might just be out for information... but what is he planning on using that information for? Perhaps I'm reading to much into it since he clearly can't be trusted, but I can't imagine that's a guild any respectable person would want to be a part of. sense motive = 3
Sigismund Brauer (Tanner) -- HP 35 | AC 18/11/16 | CMD 20 | F+6/R+3/W+0 Friday June 19th, 2020 11:29:21 PM
Siggy shrugs. "Thieves're persistent. If our new town has success, they'll show up like ticks on a hound. Either we can hang 'em all... If we can... Or you pick yer thieves. The most decent ones you can find. The decent ones help keep the bad ones out. If you can find thieves who're satisfied with smugglin' or graft, it's better than thieves who burgle or play highwayman."
Niall (JonL) HP: 18/24 AC: 17/11/16 Sunday June 21st, 2020 8:21:37 PM
"I am not sure that now is the time to discuss the benefits of thievery.." Niall suggests, "Though I would certainly prefer to live in a place where people respected justice and the rights of others."
Naithi (JamesD) AC: 19/14/17 HP: 18/18 , CMD = 16 d20=6 ; Monday June 22nd, 2020 1:37:34 AM
I shake my head n surprise as Boyo speaks. That's a neat trick!
DM Mitch Monday June 22nd, 2020 5:59:53 AM Boyo tells Crowley that Zazu is crazy but nice and requests Crowly be nice too.
Zazu waits for the thieves to get out of earshot to tell the others about his past experiences with thieves that were positive.
Ash suggests not all thieves are benevolent and suggests they could be inviting slavers in if not careful. She says no one should make unilateral moves that affect the group entirely.
Lothlo says he doesn’t trust Thomho and questions what the halfling would do with the information.
Sigismund says that it is all about picking the right kind of thieves and that the decent ones will keep the bad ones out.
Niall suggests now is not the time to discuss the benefits of thievery but that he would prefer to live in a place where people respected justice.
The group is ready to settle down and wait for their name to be called when they see three familiar faces approach.
It’s a blast from the past as Wyrran Valar, Aiduin and Elnaril (the bloodwitches who greeted the caravan at Kovri)
“Ash, Zazu and company. So good to see you again.” Wyrran calls out. “How are you finding your stay in Karri so far? I mean aside from the distance from the living Culverwood isn’t this place impressive?”
Zazu (AC18, HP18/18) and Boyo the bunny (AC15, HP9/9) (Cayzle) Monday June 22nd, 2020 6:42:51 AM
Zazu bows and ia a bit tongue-tied and a little surprised that the speech about rogues and slavery did not affect others as much as actually living through it. "I must have told it wrong."
"Um, hello, Goody Wyrran, Goody Aiduin, and Goody Elnaril. It is nice to see you again."
The elf tries to remember if that's really the polite term to address a witch, or if the elf just dreamed that somewhere.
Niall (JonL) HP: 18/24 AC: 17/11/16 Monday June 22nd, 2020 6:59:45 PM
"Hello again. it is quite wonderful so far," Niall agrees with a bow of his head towards the witches, though with formal politeness in his tone. witches, you know.
Zazu (AC18, HP18/18) and Boyo the bunny (AC15, HP9/9) (Cayzle) Monday June 22nd, 2020 8:46:35 PM
(Zazu does not miss mentally noting the remark about the distance from the living Culverwood ... and wonders if they are witches of the Culver, and if they are allied with the witch on the Council. Zazu says nothing about that, though.)
Lothlo (WillD) -- AC: 19/15/14, HP: 28/28, CMD: 20 Monday June 22nd, 2020 9:06:51 PM
Lothlo bows and greets the blood witches. Greetings and well met, I wasn't expecting to see you here. Our stay has been most pleasant, it truely is a beautiful place and the people have been most kind. With a little luck we hope our journey will bear fruit after our meeting today and we can bring good news back to the refugees. How have you been since we last met?
Sigismund Brauer (Tanner) -- HP 35 | AC 18/11/16 | CMD 20 | F+6/R+3/W+0 Monday June 22nd, 2020 11:27:00 PM
Sigismund grunts and folds his arms at the approach of the bloodwitches. "If y'all'd excuse me, I'm gonna go stand over yonder. Fer reasons." The big minotaur walks about ten paces away and intently studies a table vase.
Ash (RobC) -- AC 12/12/10 -- CMD 13 -- HP 25/25 Monday June 22nd, 2020 11:53:30 PM "Wyrran! I wasn't expecting to see you here. How are things back in Kovri? Did the healings go well?" Ash rises to her feet and greets each of the witches with a smile and handshake "Sorry I couldn't be there to have seen it. I'm sure it would have been interesting to watch. Some other time perhaps?"
"This city sure is a big place. Very impressive" she says as she retakes her seat "Karri? I don't think I've heard that before. Is that the proper name for this city?"
"So what brings you here anyway? Are you here to see the Council too?"
Naithi (JamesD) AC: 19/14/17 HP: 18/18 , CMD = 16 Tuesday June 23rd, 2020 12:03:58 AM
I nudge Camalayaas closer and greet the others. It is good to see you all again. I hope you have been well. What brings you here today?
DM Hugh - The Return of the Witches Tuesday June 23rd, 2020 10:36:33 AM Zazu greets the witches politely
Niall also greets them remarking things are going well so far
Lothlo also extends salutations and has hopeful remarks for how their petition will go.
Sigismund goes to look at a pretty vase.
Ash greets them warmly and asks some questions.
Naithi does the same.
The witches notice Sigismund’s leaving with a frown, but the eager attention of the others distract them. "The healing went fine." Wyrran tells Ash. "If there is a next time you can watch, I’m happy to help someone so eager to learn. Yes Karri is the proper name of the city and what we are doing here, why we live here and decided to take in a council meeting."
Sense Motive DC 20 Highlight to display spoiler: {You get the feeling there is something that Wyrran isn’t telling you.}
Wyrran says, “I don’t know how Councilor Cardithas will receive your petition. On the one hand she tends to be against new development in general but on the other hand were you to pursue your own agreement with the Culverwood itself by living in its eave or on its border you might be able to extend the presence of the magic wood.”
Aiduin says, “What were you doing with that lot?” indicating the group of 4 who previously left.
Elnaril says, “You don’t think the rumors about councilor Pagolar are true do you.”
Aiduin says, “I don’t know what to think. I mean his ascendancy to the council was somewhat of a whirlwind but no one has been able to prove anything and you know how it is, some folks don’t like change. It is possible that Councilor Pagolar is merely the victim of a vicious rumor campaign that falsely associates him with some shady characters. I wouldn’t give the rumors any mind unless concrete evidence materializes.”
Know [local] 21 - Highlight to display spoiler: {there is a rumor going that suggests Pagolar only won his council seat thanks to high instances of fraud in several Urban areas that has seen an increase in organized crime. There has been no concrete link from Pagolar to organized crime directly so the rumor is unconfirmed.}
Zazu (AC18, HP18/18) and Boyo the bunny (AC15, HP9/9) (Cayzle) d20+1=5 ; d20+4=17 ; Tuesday June 23rd, 2020 12:10:18 PM
Untrained sense and knowledge (5 and 17) reveal nothing to Zazu.
"Oh, this is all over my head," says Zazu. "I haven't lived here since Parnoth was overthrown. But I did grow up in the Culverwood, and I have been trying to convince my friends that we should try to situate our new town near the magical forest. Not outside the Emerald Kingdom, mind you, but as close tot he edge as we can find a consensus to settle. We're also hoping for water access, either a lake or a navigable waterway. It is so kind of you to stop by. Would you happen to know if any greenwitch would like to settle in our town, we would be welcoming."
Then the elf with the green hair-ribbon takes a sidelong look at Ash. "Assuming that the group agrees that it would be a good idea, I mean."
Lothlo (WillD) -- AC: 19/15/14, HP: 28/28, CMD: 20 d20+3=12 ; Tuesday June 23rd, 2020 9:05:00 PM
Lothlo looks at the group walking away.
I don't know what you are referring to, but I definitely think those four were up to no good. I got the feeling they were trying to dig up dirt to pressure people. Though I admit I couldn't get a good read on them, beyond not trusting them in the slightest.
Ash (RobC) -- AC 12/12/10 -- CMD 13 -- HP 25/25 d20+4=21 ; d20+10=11 ; Tuesday June 23rd, 2020 10:09:20 PM
Ash gives a curious look to Wyrran. Who decides to take in a council meeting just for fun? She makes sure to catch his eyes, but says nothing of her suspicions.
She looks to Aiduin and nods in the direction the halfling left "That lot? They were quite secretive as to why they were here and what they were up to. From the way they spoke though it sounded like they represent a thieves guild. I'm with Lothlo. Not sure I trust them at all"
"Anyway, what rumors have you heard about Councilor Pagolar? Anything we should be aware of?"
Ash smiles to Zazu "A friendly person who wants to settle with us should be welcome, right? Greenwitch or not"
------------ Sense Motive vs DC20: 21 = Pass Knowl Local vs DC21: 11 = Fail
Sigismund Brauer (Tanner) -- HP 35 | AC 18/11/16 | CMD 20 | F+6/R+3/W+0 Tuesday June 23rd, 2020 10:55:40 PM
Sigismund keeps an ear cocked toward the conversation, but keeps his eyes focused on the enameled surface of a side table.
Naithi (JamesD) AC: 19/14/17 HP: 18/18 , CMD = 16 d20+1=4 ; Tuesday June 23rd, 2020 11:29:08 PM I got the feeling that we don't want to end up in their bad side. Who would have thought that trying to live in peace would be so complicated!
Sense Motive= 4
Niall (JonL) HP: 18/24 AC: 17/11/16 Wednesday June 24th, 2020 7:25:46 AM
Niall is just as clueless as everyone else about the councilor.
DM Mitch Wednesday June 24th, 2020 7:53:50 AM Zazu admits a lot of going on is over his head but tells the witches he is trying to convince his friends to settle on the border of the Culverwood. He also asks if they know of any greenwitch that might be willing to join the settlement.
Lothlo says he didn’t get a good read on the others but he got the feeling they were up to no good.
Ash asks for clarity on the rumors and talks about the group that just left.
Sigismund is fascinated by the furniture.
Naithi says she doesn’t think she wants to get on their bad side.
Niall is clueless.
Wyrran says to Zazu, “Our coven does not have any Greenmages among our number but we do have a connection to the preservationist druid circle. Perhaps they might know of someone that could fulfil your request.”
Aiduin tries to explain to alleviate some of the confusion, “We think those 4 are with the thieves guild and the rumor going around is that Councilor Pagolar is connected to them, the thieves guild I mean and they helped get him elected. There is no proof of this mind you but if other forces aligned with councilors have made plays to converse with you might those 4 belong to Councilor Pagolar?”
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