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?”
Zazu (AC18, HP18/18) and Boyo the bunny (AC15, HP9/9) (Cayzle) Wednesday June 24th, 2020 8:08:33 AM
Zazu stammers, "um, when I said, uh, 'greenwitch' I was meaning to say, well, a B-Bloodwitch of the Wold who, uh, honors the Culverwood. Sorry."
Whispering only to Boyo: "That's twice in five minutes that what I meant to say and what people seem to have understood are not hooking up right." Zazu just stands quiet. Even when friends say mean things about rogues. Don't they know that their comrade-in-arms *IS* one?
Ash (RobC) -- AC 12/12/10 -- CMD 13 -- HP 25/25 Wednesday June 24th, 2020 7:45:42 PM
Ash isn't entirely sure why Zazu is apologizing. Is he apologizing to her or the bloodwitches? "I don't think you have anything to apologize for my friend" she tries to reassure him.
Wyrran didn't pick up on Ash's subtlety so she goes for the direct approach "Forgive me for asking, Wyrran, but was there any other reason you came here today? Not many people go to watch council meetings for fun."
Lothlo (WillD) -- AC: 19/15/14, HP: 28/28, CMD: 20 Wednesday June 24th, 2020 9:01:24 PM
Lothlo shares what he knows about the four guild members.
Let's put it this way, if they weren't from the thieves guild they really wanted us to think they were, or at the very least though that the thieves guild are the ideal role model to emulate. I don't know if they are with Councilor Pagolar, but their goal seemed to be gathering information on counselors. My gut says they wanted to be able to put pressure on someone, but that's pure speculation.
Sigismund Brauer (Tanner) -- HP 35 | AC 18/11/16 | CMD 20 | F+6/R+3/W+0 Thursday June 25th, 2020 1:51:16 AM
Sigismund remains attentively listening to the conversation but pointedly keeping his focus on various decorations around the room.
Niall (JonL) HP: 18/24 AC: 17/11/16 Thursday June 25th, 2020 7:56:35 AM
Niall nods in agreement towards Lothlo, "Whatever they were did not give a good impression, but it may just have been all political. I am not one for politics.." he gives a look towards the doors for the council meeting, "We don't need politics. we just need permission to settle somewhere no one else is."
DM Mitch Thursday June 25th, 2020 8:19:22 AM Zazu explains what he means by greenwitch and apologizes for the misunderstanding.
Aiduin says to Zazu, “Think nothing of it. Unfortunately our coven is rather settled at the moment but we do network with other witches. Tell you what, you find a place for your village, get the council’s blessing and if you still want a bloodwitch or votary cleric in your village we will do what we can to help you.”
Ash doesn’t understand why Zazu is apologizing and then presses Wyrran on his reason for being there.
Wyrran says, “Well I don’t think I would call me being here fun. It is more like my duty. I am Councilor Cardithas’s cohort and consort. She finds these meetings draining sometimes so I am here to offer my support should she need it. When I saw a familiar face and how those scoundrels were bothering you I thought maybe it was time for a chat.”
Lothlo shares what he knows of the “scoundrels” and also his gut feeling that they were trying to put pressure on somone.
Elnaril says, “Well if they were trying to pressure someone on the council why would they need to do that if Councilor Pagolar was in their pocket? Wouldn’t this suggest that this whole thing is just a giant hoax and Pagolar is really the victim of a smear campaign.”
Sigismund, chair stare-er extraordinaire!
Nial agrees with Lothlo and says he’s not that interested in politics.
Naithi (JamesD) AC: 19/14/17 HP: 18/18 , CMD = 16 Thursday June 25th, 2020 1:59:06 PM
I continue scratching Camalayaas head and make note they it might be worth absorbing the essence of a politician or member of the thief's guild next. They apparently have knowledge and skills I am lacking... Why can't people be more like animals...
Lothlo (WillD) -- AC: 19/15/14, HP: 28/28, CMD: 20 Thursday June 25th, 2020 9:01:20 PM
Lothlo considers the possibility that the rumors aren't true. That I couldn't say, however since the votes seem to require a majority and the rumors I've heard only indicate one person under their influence, I wouldn't count out that they are trying to get enough people under their fingers that they can get away with any level of corruption their hearts desire. It could also be that they feel the person most corruptible is the one people already assume has been corrupted. Or perhaps the most likely possibility is that they don't have a set goal yet, just fishing for an opportunity they can twist to their advantage.
Zazu (AC18, HP18/18) and Boyo the bunny (AC15, HP9/9) (Cayzle) Thursday June 25th, 2020 9:02:51 PM
Zazu wanders over to Siggy, who seems to be alone. The elf knows from quiet, so Zazu just stands next to the minotaur and admires whatever it is he is admiring.
Niall (JonL) HP: 18/24 AC: 17/11/16 Thursday June 25th, 2020 11:22:12 PM
nialls brain is starting to hurt. All the ins and out of bureaucracy.
DM Mitch Friday June 26th, 2020 8:11:11 AM Naithi scratches Camalayaas head and considers it might be worth absorbing the essence of a politician or member of the thieves guild next.
Lothlo suggests the thieves might be fishing for an opportunity or trying to corrupt as many members of the council as possible.
Zazu wanders over to Sigismund.
Niall’s brains start to hurt.
Wyrann, Alduin and Elnaril bid the party a good day.
Wyrann says, “Good luck with your request. Don’t forget our offer. If the council grants you a settlement and you still want a Witch of the Culverwood or Culverwood Votary cleric we can help you find one.”
No one else appears to be approaching. It looks like you still have a little bit of time before you will be called. Anything else you want to do before you go before the council?
Sigismund Brauer (Tanner) -- HP 35 | AC 18/11/16 | CMD 20 | F+6/R+3/W+0 Friday June 26th, 2020 3:15:41 PM
Siggy sighs. "Zazu, you seem like a good guy." The big minotaur folds his arms across his chest and sucks at his teeth. "I've heard you say a few times you'd like to settle near the Culverwood. I can see why you'd think that way. You grew up there. It's what you know. You feel safe there. It shows in you bein' so polite'n respectful to those witches." He pauses a beat. "I don't trust nature. At all. Nature ain't kind. Nature ain't fair. Nature is nature, is all. It's indifferent. It ain't good or bad, but it sure as heck doesn't care about you'n me. Some of them witches'n druids? They think a squirrel or a coon is just as important as a person. You build a house they don't like? They burn it down. You plant crops they don't like? They send bugs to eat 'em up. You move too deep in their woods? They kill ya. I would rather settle in the middle of Izen, surrounded by greenskins, than trust the Culverwood. Because you can't trust the Culverwood. I can trust the greenskins all right. They're bloodthirsty'n would just as soon kill ya as greet ya, but their stupid violence is dependable. Culverwood could be peachy as pie, then change its mind in a heartbeat'n suddenly our little village is smoke'n ash."
Siggy sighs. "Sorry 'bout bein' rude to new folks, but I wouldn't trust a witch of the Culverwood as far as I could throw 'em." A small smirk creeps into his mouth. "And I could probably throw 'em pretty far."
Ash (RobC) -- AC 12/12/10 -- CMD 13 -- HP 25/25 Friday June 26th, 2020 10:33:01 PM "I would gladly welcome a good and honest witch or cleric to join us, regardless of their patron" Ash crosses her arms and looks to Siggy "Is it that you don't trust witches of the Culverwood, or don't trust witches in general?"
She sighs loudly and shakes her head. Save that argument for another day.
"In terms of a location, I think there's room for a happy middle ground. I'm sure we can find a place that's close to the Culverwood yet not nestled right in it. It can be close enough to Izen that we can have some influence and hopefully free more orcs to join us."
Ash pauses to see if she is getting any nods of agreement
"We've been here less than 24 hours and we've already met a councilor, five emissaries, a cohort, and four thieves that might have links to a politician. That's all before we've even had our council meeting. I'm with Siggy on this one - let's try and find a place in the Emerald Kingdom as far from the politics as we can."
She's obviously still keen on a place far to the east.
Zazu (AC18, HP18/18) and Boyo the bunny (AC15, HP9/9) (Cayzle) Saturday June 27th, 2020 9:01:41 AM
"Thanks Siggy," says Zazu. "It's nice to hear that, and I appreciate your point of view. Like Ash says, maybe we can compromise on close but not "nestled in."
Sigismund Brauer (Tanner) -- HP 35 | AC 18/11/16 | CMD 20 | F+6/R+3/W+0 Saturday June 27th, 2020 1:29:33 PM
Siggy raises his eyebrows and turns to Ash. "Oh, no, darlin!" He raises his hands apologetically. "I didn't mean it like that! Just the Culverwood. Witches're like clerics'n druids, they tend to do what their bosses tell 'em, or they like to try to act just like their bosses. They're still people alright, but their patron is pretty darn important. I'd trust a witch of Alemi waaaay before I'd trust a witch of Ga'al."
Ash (RobC) -- AC 12/12/10 -- CMD 13 -- HP 25/25 Saturday June 27th, 2020 8:50:05 PM
Ash gives a little smile and nods in agreement to what Siggy is saying. With the recent goings-on among the Woldian Gods, who a person worships can say a lot about them. I mean, previously she'd have been a little distrustful of folks who followed Kevintar. Now though? Hmmm.
Niall (JonL) HP: 18/24 AC: 17/11/16 Sunday June 28th, 2020 8:58:49 PM
"I agree one at least one point there.. as far from politics as we can be" Niall adds in as they wait.
He has nothing else he wants to do before the meeting.
Naithi (JamesD) AC: 19/14/17 HP: 18/18 , CMD = 16 Monday June 29th, 2020 1:38:37 AM
As the conversations continue I cuddle Camalayaas. Briefly I wonder if these conversations are themselves a test for the council, but I let the others handle that. Right now I want to observe and learn politics. However I do not trust myself to actively do much, for fear of breaking some unknown etiquite.
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