In the redlight district, not too far from dockside, and just out of the
shadows of twilight house and the cathedral, is a run down tavern that caters
to a class of drunkard less inclined to mix it up with dockworkers or
tradesmen, and often quite thin of purse. An assortment of brews can be had,
 But the house special is thin, sour and cheap.
In addition to the weaker, cheaper ale, the Wastrel's Hope specializes in low
Stakes games of chance, and wagers on the local sports teams, be it the
dart league or even the junior jugga league.


"What'll it be?"

Grimbo climbs up on a stool. The goblin, stout of stature and sharp of tooth, does not smile. He knows humans don't like that. He cracks his knuckles while seeming to consider, before ordering the special as he always does. He knows it's terrible, and he knows he could afford better, still living off his jugga prizes, but he's careful about things like that.

In reply to Grimbo (msg # 2):

JeanPaul, a bald brutish human with a full beard, slides him a wooden
tankard dripping with foam.
"Who doya like for the darts tonight, the local fellas or the leatherboys from tje Mask?"

In reply to Grimbo (msg # 2):

A young human wanders in, clad in newish leather and a slightly rusty pot helm with long, straight brown hair hanging from under it, carrying a longbow slung and a staff (with its own sling hanging) in hand.  A hip quiver with a single arrow hangs on his belt alongside a knife.  He turns his green eyes toward the goblin.

"What's good here, and what's cheap?  Is there any overlap?"  Without waiting for a reply, he sticks out his hand.  "I'm Mario Crowfoot.  You'll know my name someday as the best archer alive -- if I live that long."

Grimbo answers JeanPaul, "Darts? Allus bet onna home team."

The goblin looks quite surprised to be politely addressed by Mario, but shakes the offered hand firmly. "Grimbo. You mighta hearda me. From tha jugga."

In reply to Grimbo (msg # 5):

"I don't really follow jugga, but your name rings a bell."  Turning to the tavernkeeper, "I'll have what he's having, if it's safe for humans."

He slings his staff over the opposite shoulder from his bow, and seats himself next to Grimbo.

"Darts?  I prefer to fire my arrows from a bow, rather than chuck them by hand, but I can see the entertainment value of a handicap competition if you have the skill for it.  Is there any reason to bet against the Wastrel team?  Does the opposition use poison, for instance?"
This message was last updated by the player at 22:24, Mon 13 July 2015.

Further down the bar, a young man scratches a few more marks on a small scrap of paper!

You guys are betting on the home team?

He is young with black hair, and a warm smile. He has quite a bit of armor with him and a nice, if old, axe and shield.

In reply to Tarnan Darranich (msg # 7):

"I'm asking for information.  Grimbo seems to be betting on the home team.  And hello to you, Tarnan!"

In reply to Mario Crowfoot (msg # 6):

"Hey, I was qwik for tha Pillagers fer three years." Turning and looking at Tarnan, "You know this guy? Yeah, darts allus the home team. Don' allus win, but that's tha way ta bet."

In reply to Grimbo (msg # 9):

An odd trio walk into the bar, a middle aged goblin carrying a ledger, a
muscular orc with a topknot, and a human with a smallsword wearing fine
embroidered clothing.

 The goblin sizes up Grimbo
"The pillagets wuz a good team. I made good book wit dem.
So how much you wanna put on the dart game tonight?"
This message was last edited by the player at 11:04, Tue 14 July 2015.

Grimbo looks interested. "What odds?"

Who spoke?

[Private to Narrator: Do I know any of these people?]

A young human clad in a robe and leaning on an oddly pointy metal staff with leather covered tips speaks up from a nearby table.

"Grimbo?  The jugger enforcer?  I saw the last match, it was rather entertaining.  I was there to help out with injuries.  Congratulations on the win."
This message was last updated by the player at 06:09, Tue 14 July 2015.

Tarnan slides up near to the group, and replies to Ardenas:

Hi there.  I'm new to this city, but I'm very interested in learning more about the local games.  I have a "fool-proof" system for placing bets based on the habits of farm animals.  *slides that small sheet of paper into his pocket*  The horses in the stable are giving me hints!  I'd really like to place a bet, though my coins are low.  I'd like to find some adventure around here to fill my purse again!

In reply to Tarnan Darranich (msg # 13):
The goblin chuckles
"You got a system, eh? That's rich! Warcher name kid? I'm Lepkur, and I make book around here.

You notice that while the human and Orc each have tin guild badges, he has a gilt
brass one, indicating some kind of rank.
This message was last edited by the player at 16:22, Tue 14 July 2015.

"I play qwik," Grimbo answers Nodwin, somewhat huffily.

He then turns back to Lepkur, What odds ya givin' on home team?"

Nodwin looks abashed.
"Ah, my apologies. I have only been to a couple of games, and healing does keep most of my attention off of the play on the field."

In reply to Nodwin Zideqick (msg # 16):

"Healers are for children. Orcs play through."

In reply to Grend (msg # 17):

"That is well known, Grend, but the odds change when there are
healers in play, or when there ain't, and a team has had some hard action.
Keeping that kinda intell under wraps is good for people playing the odds.
 Incidentally, da Wastrells are figured at a one ta three against da
Leathermen, cause da Leathermen don't like ta drink in dis joint, so dey
tend ta be sober when dey throw darts. Kinda da revoise when dey throw at
da Rusty Marlinspike, cause dey serve stiffer drinks. No offense, JayPee."

In reply to Lepkur (msg # 18):

"None taken, Lepkur. Your sending the league through the Hope keeps the
Booze flowing, even if the leatherboys don't drink.
Speaking of booze, Low-Rent, didja get anything new for me?"

In reply to JeanPaul (msg # 19):

The man the bartender refers to as "Low-Rent" replies:
"Very soon, my friend. My friend just came back into town with a few
cases of armangac that, while not pleasing to him, will definately brighten
Your fine establishment.  I will have 'Elga bring them round in the morn."

Grimbo fishes in his purse. "I like tha odds. 5 coppers on tha Wastrels tonight.

"JeanPaul, ya gettin' some high grade o rotgut?"

In reply to Grimbo (msg # 21):

The goblin makes a note in his book, and accepts the money.
"Done."

In reply to Grimbo (msg # 21):

"I hope so. Even I know my ale is piss... figuratively speaking."

In reply to Lepkur (msg # 14):

The name is Tarnan, pleased to meet'cha.

Tarnan grumbles to himself then pulls out 5 coppers and bets on the Wastrel's.

In reply to Tarnan Darranich (msg # 24):

"Okay, I'm hearing one to three against the Wastrels, so I'll cover you, Tarnan, unless you prefer to keep with the bookie."  Mario reaches into his pouch for a handful of coin and counts out three silver and three coppers.  "Who'll hold the bets for us?

"By the way, I'm looking for something to better my purse as well; not enough reward in town jobs.  'Guard this shop door' doesn't mean do anything, just stand in one place for hours without going to sleep, it seems."

In reply to Mario Crowfoot (msg # 25):

"Oh, by the bye, JeanPaul, could I trouble you for a cup of tea to chase whatever this is?  Assuming, that is, that your tea is better than your small ale..."

Excellent idea Mario!  Will one of you lads hold the purse for us? 

After the betting has been sorted out Tarnan relaxes back in his chair.

I'm new in town, but there has to be some avenue for adventure better than the guard duty I've been able to secure so far.  You boys look tough enough, perhaps we can work together and go after some real coin. 

In reply to Tarnan Darranich (msg # 27):

"You don't get fixed odds if you don't bet with the house. Are 5ou sure your friend is going to pay out at that rate?"
This message was lightly edited by the player at 12:34, Wed 15 July 2015.

In reply to Mario Crowfoot (msg # 26):

"This ain't no tea shop! If you want coffee I can oress you some, but it's getting on the off season, it'll cost two
 coppers the mug."


Ooc: ale costs only one copper here
This message was last edited by the player at 12:45, Wed 15 July 2015.

OOC: Do I know any of these business people or recognize their guild badges?

[Private to Narrator: Also, may I shift a point to Area Knowledge: Northport? For some reason, I thought home region had a point for free, which is why I didn't do that already, but that must have been a previous GM's house rule.]

In reply to Grimbo (msg # 30):

The man in fine clothing and the goblin are vaguely
  familiar to some of you, and the orcs haircut may mean somethung to Grimbo and the military men; it is a style orcs often wear.

Occ:iq rolls for all; a point can be spent on Area knowledge for either Northport or the guild, that latter is common if you buy rank in the guild
This message was last edited by the GM at 13:58, Wed 15 July 2015.

"Tarnan, right? Tha Adventurer's Guild might have some work. I doan got anything at tha moment, but a team could help. Specially with a healer." He nods at Nodwin.

OOC: Made it exactly, either IQ or AK:Guild

09:01, Today: Grimbo rolled 10 using 3d6. IQ 10.
This message was last edited by the player at 13:05, Wed 15 July 2015.

Nodwin made area knowledge northport exactly.

10:43, Today: Nodwin Zideqick rolled 13 using 3d6. area knowledge 13.
This message was last updated by the GM at 19:29, Wed 15 July 2015.

In reply to JeanPaul (msg # 29):

"Thanks but no thanks, JeanPaul.  I'll pass on the coffee, and I've already got what passes for ale; it might last me the rest of the evening.  How long till the arrow-chucking starts?"

OOC: 18:08, Wed 15 July 2015: Mario Crowfoot rolled 9 using 3d6 ((5,3,1)); IQ.
This message was last edited by the player at 22:11, Wed 15 July 2015.

OOC: IQ roll.

18:52, Today: Tarnan Darranich rolled 9 using 3d6. IQ roll.

In reply to Tarnan Darranich (msg # 35):

The bartender shrugs. "Should be an hour or two."
[Private to Tarnan Darranich: orcs that wear topknots practice a form of
unarmed combat called Smasha. An unarmed smashes practicioner doesn't need weapons]
[Private to Nodwin Zideqick: Leonie is the guild bookie, he has high rank
and is often seen with the Ogrekin fight organizer, Vilgar]
This message was last edited by the player at 15:36, Thu 16 July 2015.

"I'm not much of a gambler, but I do enjoy occasionally watching a game."

Nodwin asks the bartender for an ale.

"Is the dartmatch here tonight?  I doubt that a dart game would need a healer, but I have no jobs lined up at the moment so I might as well stay to watch the competition."

In reply to Nodwin Zideqick (msg # 37):

The bartender shakes his head and take a deep breath."Yep."

He pours an ale and slides it over to Nodwin, and waves at Laurence who is
 stepping out.

In reply to JeanPaul (msg # 38):

Laurence steps out, and a moment later steps right back in.
"Stow the book, Lepkur.  It's LeFleur!"

In reply to Laurence Cassile (msg # 39):

The bartender frowns "Back so soon?"

Grimbo raises a bristly eyebrow.

OOC: Do I know who LeFleur is?

---

Spoiler text: (Highlight or hover over the text to view)
Success on IQ by 4.
14:27, Today: Grimbo rolled 6 using 3d6. IQ 10 re LeFleur.

---

This message was last edited by the player at 19:11, Thu 16 July 2015.

In reply to JeanPaul (msg # 40):

"Jaypee, I need da back room. Guys, if youse could keep da
bluecloaks busy, an not mention ya seen me, I'd be appreciative an suchlike."
[Private to Grimbo: Marcel LeFleur is a sergeant of the bluecloak guards, and had previously raided a gambling den of Vilgar and Lepkur.]

In reply to Lepkur (msg # 42):

"I haven't seen anyone since I came in here.  I think the ale is making me blind..."

In reply to Mario Crowfoot (msg # 43):

Tarnan will keep an eye out on the bar crowd as La Fluer enters.  Especially the orc with the military cut.  If this la fluer is some kind of police he might make certain parties nervous.

In reply to Tarnan Darranich (msg # 44):

The unarmed orc escorts Lepkur to the back room, and Jean Paul pushes a table against the door. Cassille takes a seat and accepts a tankard from him.

Grimbo begins holding forth on the finer points of playing qwik in Jugga.

Nodwin pulls a small stone out of a pouch and starts to polish it with a rag.

In reply to Stringfellow Hill (msg # 47):

Two men in chainmail, carrying dueling halberds, and one in plate, all wearing blue
cloaks step in.
"Barkeep, bring us some ale. I am tired of dealing with these greens
and their internecine squabbles. Who cares if their shops are being broken
by their hooligan youth, if they keep their mess of of the better districts.
The fewer there are..."
One of the guardsmen nudges their leader, and points his chin over at Grimbo.
This message was last edited by the player at 17:47, Sat 18 July 2015.

In reply to Sergeant Lefleur (msg # 48):

"Sergeant, has it never occurred to you that troubles in the goblin quarter might have more to do with poverty than with blood?  I'd sooner deal with folk like Grimbo here than with humans who think a man's worth is only in the size of his purse."

In reply to Mario Crowfoot (msg # 49):

Le Fleur glares at Mario.
"The greens attack their own out of their savage nature. some of them are
successful merchants and landowners, but that doesn't keep them from cheering over
thugs jamming dog skulls onto stakes. Orc youths running ragged is nothing new,
either. they ran roughshod over our northern neighbor, and I am not going to stand for
 it here. I just don't find the issue as urgent when it is their own that they fight. Good riddance I say."
He takes a pull from his tankard, and spits.
"Barkeep! This tastes like piss!"
This message was lightly edited by the player at 17:47, Sat 18 July 2015.

In reply to Narrator (msg # 50):

"We were just talking about that before you came in, Sergeant.  The taste of the ale here is no secret.  It is very affordable, however; my recommendation is to make the tankard last all evening, or else drink it so fast you don't taste it.

"I'd suggest, however, that enjoyment of jugger isn't specific to the green races.  You look like you'd make a decent amateur league enforcer yourself, or maybe a chain, though I'm sure I'd be a better qwik.  Not the qwik Grimbo here is, though; I'm too tall to play in his league."

OOC: Mario is "too tall" at a whopping 5' 4".

Grimbo does not take this well. "Sergeant, don' ya gotta do yer job? Ya work for tha whole city, right?"

He turns his back on Le Fleur. "Enjoy your drink." The goblin takes a few swallows with gusto.

--
OOC: Grimbo's also 5'4" - goblins only run 2" shorter than humans in DF.

In reply to Grimbo (msg # 52):

"The beer is better at the other point, and the crowd a little more wholesome."

In reply to Guardsman (msg # 53):

"Have a good night," Grimbo answers, not turning around.
This message was last edited by the player at 18:40, Sat 18 July 2015.

In reply to Mario Crowfoot (msg # 51):

that's solid advice on the ale, ive been making mine last all evening.  In smaller doses it's easier to pretend it tastes better.    Tarnan is smiling, ear to ear.

"More wholesome you say?  Raucous and drunk more like.  I have found the people here to be as friendly and wholesome as most bars."

Nodwin takes a sip of his drink. "Though the ale does indeed taste like it came out of a boot after being filtered through a dead rat."

In reply to Nodwin Zideqick (msg # 56):

"I must agree with you on the taste. Come gentlemen."
With that, the guardsmen click their heels and storm out of the Wastrel.

In reply to Nodwin Zideqick (msg # 56):

"Hey! That hurt me a little! Only the regulars get to rag on my brewing
 like that!"

"My humblest apologies, master barkeep.  I was merely attempting to avoid an argument that might draw even more of them by appeasing the sergeant."
This message was last updated by the GM at 11:06, Sun 19 July 2015.

In reply to JeanPaul (msg # 58):

"Unlike the sergeant, I have no problem drinking beside folk like Grimbo.  In fact, I'd rather spend my time with well behaved goblin folk than with humans who can't hold their drink or treat others well.  And if the green ones came from the north, I might get a chance to improve my Shevnian."

In reply to Nodwin Zideqick (msg # 59):

"S'alright. got the bastard out of here, like Lepkur wanted."

Grimbo raises his mug to Mario in salute.

In reply to Grimbo (msg # 62):

"Lemmie tell Lepkur the coast is clear. Can't have the
bet book falling into the hands of the plutocrats, they'd tax
us ta death... an beyond."

In reply to Grimbo (msg # 62):

Mario raises his mug with a smile at Grimbo, then takes a sip and can't hide the expression that gives him.

"Grimbo, are you a Guild member?  That seems to be the place to look for work beyond standing around guarding something that isn't likely to get away anyway -- and I'm pretty sure they have tea at the Guild Hall.  If you can get in, we could hoof it over there as soon as the teams are through chucking their arrows and the bets settled."

"Yah, I am. Good plan. But I want to get my money first," the goblin answers, referring to after the darts match.

"What about you, Tarnan?  Got your membership tag?"

@Mario

Yep, I heard it was a good value, so I got a membership tag when I arrived into the city!

"Are you referring to the adventures guild?  I am a member and I am looking forward to the opportunities I may get to practice my craft and see new things."
This message was last updated by the player at 13:57, Mon 20 July 2015.

In reply to Stringfellow Hill (msg # 68):

The evening crowd begins to arrive, and the local team begins to warm up at the dart board. As the crowd files in, Lepkur and his bodyguard are conducting small business
with the customers. He stiffens up when a hooded figure in purple steps into the bar.

In reply to Narrator (msg # 69):

Mario, noticing Lepkur's reaction, takes a sidelong look at the figure in purple, evaluating armament and/or magical accoutrements in particular.  Meanwhile, he checks that the sling on his staff isn't bound, and that his bow is free of impediments.

Grimbo touches the hilt of his knife while keeping an eye on things, but he does that frequently anyway.

Nodwin waves his hand over the stone he has been polishing.  The stone starts shining brightly.

The young priest bows his head and offers thanks.

He tucks the light stone away in a pouch and pulls out another stone to polish.
This message was last edited by the player at 04:28, Tue 21 July 2015.

Tarnan takes his own advice, pulling the smallest of sips from his tankard of ale, and grimacing.

In reply to Tarnan Darranich (msg # 73):

The purple clad man drinks heavily from his tankard, ignoring the taste, and stops to see Lepkur about a wager. The goblin
seems leery, but not surprised.
[Private to Nodwin Zideqick: this man is a member of the plutocracy, the local priesthood of Dis Pater that forms the core of Northport's bureaucracy, governing taxation in particular]

Nodwin pulls out 5 copper and moves over towards the bookie, looking like any person waiting to place a bet.  He tries to get close enough to hear a bit of the conversation, if he can without disturbing them or appearing too nosey.

In reply to Nodwin Zideqick (msg # 75):

The robes man leans in to the goblin, passing him some coins
"So put five on each for me, and... if you know of a dice game, I am interested in throwing a few bones."

In reply to Acolyte Flavius (msg # 76):

"Dere is one of dem in da back room. Heh, when dey
fall, dey fall hard."
This message was lightly edited by the player at 11:23, Fri 24 July 2015.

Nodwin waits for the acolyte to leave, the he steps up.
 "I'll place 5 on the home team for darts tonight.  Do the priests of Dis Pater come here often to wager?  It doesn't seem like the image they present normally."

In reply to Nodwin Zideqick (msg # 78):

"Hardly. Dis one has a drinking problem, an a dicing
 problem. Most of dem just stay in da Hadereum unless dey
are trying ta collect taxes on folks doing tings like hauling treasure ou4ta the undercity."
This message was last edited by the player at 20:53, Sat 25 July 2015.

Tarnan looks about at this group of new-found drinking buddies. Most of you guys have heard my story, I'm new to town.  I served as a soldier for a while, way back, but lately I've been finding work as a caravan guard.  I've been getting pretty bored heading back and forth along the same route.  I'm interested to see if I can find some better work in town.  I just picked up my membership in the adventurers guild, hoping that I might be able to find some contacts.  Are most of you from around here?

In reply to Tarnan Darranich (msg # 80):

"I grew up here in Northport, but I don't know where I was born.  I've been guarding shops and such for the past year or so, but it cuts into my practice time, not to mention being boring and paying poorly.  I believe I've seen you around -- you look familiar, though after a few months on guard duty, I think everyone in town starts to look familiar."

"When I was a child I sailed a few places, but I've grown up here in Northport.  Almost all of my time has been at the temple though, studying and learning.  I have only recently begun spending more time outside it's walls."
This message was last updated by the player at 15:15, Sat 25 July 2015.

"I'ma Northport gobbo, born'n'bred."

In reply to Grimbo (msg # 83):

The Wastrels have been warming up for a bit, when the Leather
Men walk in, wearing matching leather tabards with a mask
 design in a contrasting color, most of them with custom
 dart bandoliers.
That acolyte is already on his third tankard of ale.

Grimbo leans back against the bar, sipping another mug of the so-called "ale."

"Ah, here we go.  Can't judge by equipment, but these folks certainly seem to have a budget."
This message was last updated by the player at 12:05, Sun 26 July 2015.

In reply to Mario Crowfoot (msg # 86):

In addition to being all matchy-matchy, the leathermen all
reek heavily of tanning chemicals, to the point that the other patrons of the bar are pulling away from them.

In reply to Narrator (msg # 87):

"Phew!  And now we know where they got the name -- they're all from the tannery district, if not tanners themselves.  I wonder if it's true that they soak the leather in piss to get the smell of tanning out of it?"

Grimbo doesn't mind the smell. He's a goblin, after all. But he does raise his mug in salute to Mario.

In reply to Grimbo (msg # 89):

The first round goes badly. Both teams are fairly mediocre, but the Wastrel's
aren't throwing sober. The first match ends with the Leathermen minimally
at advantage.
  You notice the acolyte step into the back room where the dice game is.

"Leathermen! Good work -- if ya need to slow down, I'll buy you a bunch o' the house ale!"

In reply to Grimbo (msg # 91):

"Ho, Leathermen.  Keep up the good work!"

In reply to Mario Crowfoot (msg # 92):

Ooc: make a carousing roll to get these guys drinking

In reply to Narrator (msg # 93):

OOC: Missed by 3, not counting any mods for buying drinks.

10:55, Today: Grimbo rolled 11 using 3d6. Carousing default 8.

In reply to Grimbo (msg # 94):

"Uh, no thanks. Not Jaypee's ale anyway."

Grimbo guffaws. "Had ta try!"

In reply to Grimbo (msg # 96):

"You keep trying, Grimbo.  I'll have Tarnan's coins before long, unless the Wastrels get better as they get drunker."

In reply to Mario Crowfoot (msg # 97):

One of the Wastrels gives Mario the eye, and proceeds to
throw a tight grouping of three

In reply to Narrator (msg # 98):

"Nice chucking, Wastrel!  That calls for another ale!"

In reply to Mario Crowfoot (msg # 97):

Tarnan laughs loudly, eyes intent on the game.  I don't know Mario, things are pretty close right now!

In reply to Tarnan Darranich (msg # 100):

OOC:Carousing rolls (at+2) to get the Wastrels  to drink more   

There are sounds of an argument   coming from the back room,

At hearing yelling, Nodwin puts away the stone he is polishing and moves towards the back room, curious about what is going on.  Maybe someone will need his services before the night is through.

Grimbo glances at Nodwin, but he's got money on this game.

In reply to Narrator (msg # 101):

Mario raises his tankard, steels himself to control his expression, and takes a healthy swig.  "To the Wastrels!"

OOC: 19:04, Today: Mario Crowfoot rolled 7 using 3d6. Carousing (to get Wastrels to drink) against default.

In reply to Mario Crowfoot (msg # 104):

The wastrels all raise a tankard, and cheer with Mario.

Nodwin can hear an argument about whether some kind of
license was valid as a stake in a dice game.
This message was last edited by the GM at 18:51, Thu 06 Aug 2015.

In reply to Narrator (msg # 105):

Mario is making friends, but someone is shouting in the back room.

Is there a closed door to the back room, or is it open to look through?

In reply to Nodwin Zideqick (msg # 107):

The door is half closed. You can see the acolyte being pushed
 against the wall

Nodwin's curiosity is enough to convince himself to slip through the half-open door, which he quietly does while wondering about what kinds of games take place back here.

Mario picks up his tankard and slips off his stool -- seemingly to get a better angle on the dart board, but really to keep an eye on Nodwin.

In reply to Mario Crowfoot (msg # 110):

One of the gamblers has the acolyte pressed against   the wall, and is drawing a knife from his belt,
"I want the 35 coins, not some damn license to excavate!
Do I look like a ditch digger?"

Nodwin gasps. "Oh my, pardon me good sirs, but is there a problem?"

In reply to Nodwin Zideqick (msg # 112):

"I placed the license as a marker! It's a bearer
document that grants immunity from taxation on items
retrieved from the undercity. The document is easily worth hundreds!"

In reply to Acolyte Flavius (msg # 113):

"I don't care about junk from underground, I want my money !"

"Hmmm, how much money does he own you?"

In reply to Nodwin Zideqick (msg # 115):

"He owes me $35!"

In reply to Becquerell (msg # 116):

Mario slips in behind Nodwin and says, very softly "I think buying that marker would be a very good deal.  I can contribute some coin if needed."

Nodwin speaks up with a thoughtful look.  "I would be willing to buy out his marker in exchange for that license, it sounds like it could potentially be a worthwhile investment. Well... after a bit of work, danger and possible death or dismemberment by unknown horrors."

Nodwin looks down for a few seconds, then nods firmly.  "With luck and help."

Tartan's head pop's through the door, he is keeping track of Mario, since they have a bet in play and all.  Gotta watch for underhanded activity ;)

He looks at Mario and Nodwin, and the folks beyond them, and say's, Watcha doing back here?

In reply to Mario Crowfoot (msg # 117):

"Alright. These hjokers come up with the coin, and
 you are off the hook, priest."
Keeping his knife pointed at the acolyte, the gambler extends a hand toward Nodwin.

In reply to Becquerell (msg # 120):

Mario puts a hand into his purse and raises an eyebrow to Nodwin.  "I can cover the full amount, if we want to deal with the arithmetic later.  We may need to include others, since I doubt you and I are up to traipsing the undercity by ourselves."

Nodwjn smiles, "I am happy to cover the whole amount, but I am also happy to have your assistance as a partner, along with any others that are willing to go down into the darkness."

Nodwin hands the money to the Becquerell, and accepts the license.

In reply to Nodwin Zideqick (msg # 122):

"Alright. He's off the hook, and I gotta see a guy."
With that the gambler releases the acolyte and storms out.

In reply to Becquerell (msg # 123):
"Thank you! May the blessing of Dis Pater be on you
 and yours! That document, by the way, absolves the bearer of
the customary 30% tax on valuables retrieved from the
undercity. Usually, only workers in the Department of Sanitation and Aqueducts recieve these, but we drafted some
 as incentives for those pursuing the horrid cultists of
Saturnos."

"Cultists of Saturnos?  Who are they?"

In reply to Nodwin Zideqick (msg # 125):

"The Saturnines are a dangerous cult. They collapsed
a street near where redlight meets merchant while opening a
portal of some kind, kidnapped children, and slaughtered the
Oracle of Eos in her sacred reflecting pool."

"How horrible. That sounds like a truly evil group."

In reply to Nodwin Zideqick (msg # 127):

"They sound careless and inept, as well as maleficent.  Hopefully there will presently be fewer of them.  Are they also wealthy, by chance?"

I'd be willing to help you both for a share of any profits that come from this endeavor, although I may not have much coin to purchase an even share of the license.  At least not if I keep betting like I have been.  Tarnan smiles broadly.

Grimbo keeps watching the dart-throwers.

In reply to Grimbo (msg # 130):

"I can get that amended to include you all as a group, for the appropriate fee. Just look me up in the Hadereum."

In reply to Acolyte Flavius (msg # 131):

"Flavius isn't too common a name among your sect, is it?  And what kind of fee are we talking about, to get this, um, 'amended'?"

"Is this a one time permit, or is it good for a specific period of time, or is it a permanent or renewable license?"

In reply to Nodwin Zideqick (msg # 133):

OOC: To make it permanent, spend 1cp. Cash coet would be $100 each, (or 1cp each). For now 5he license is good for a few weeks game time.
This message was last edited by the GM at 11:12, Thu 13 Aug 2015.

OOC: can we wait till we get a cp to pay that?  Otherwise it's $100?  Can we pay that later too?

In reply to Nodwin Zideqick (msg # 135):

You have two 2eeks in game  time for that.

"When we the Saturnine attack?  How many children were taken?"

"And how many Saturnines were seen at that time?"

In reply to Mario Crowfoot (msg # 138):

"At least one child was tsken, and rescued by Oren
the hero three days ago. Five families were murdered, and
 there were over a dozen cultists in thst group, but there
are believ3d to be more, although a Minervite holy warrior is
hunting them with a large party of mercenaries."

"Just the one child was taken and recovered?  That's good, but if it had been more I might have attempted to Seek the lost children." I am not an expert, but I have been granted the ability."

In reply to Acolyte Flavius (msg # 139):

"It sounds very much as if the Saturnines are already being reduced."

In reply to Mario Crowfoot (msg # 141):

Flavius shrugs.
The Plutocrat Remulos wants the Saturnines
exterminated. Their actions are cryptic and diffuse, and seem
to have some purpose to their actions."

In reply to Acolyte Flavius (msg # 142):

"Has Plutocrat Remulos indicated what it might be worth to him to see the Saturnines wiped out?"

In reply to Mario Crowfoot (msg # 143):

Flqviys shrugs.
"Beyond issuing tax exemptions? Are you kidding?
Overin the Hadereum it's all about taxes. That and death..."

In reply to Acolyte Flavius (msg # 144):

"Well, tax exemptions aren't nothing.  Nodwin, I think we need to make plans."

"That sounds like a smart place to start.  I imagine you would like to watch the rest of the dart match as well.  Would you care to join me at a table?  We can figure out what we would need and who, if we are to hunt together."

Nodwin gestures towards the main room.

In reply to Nodwin Zideqick (msg # 146):

Mario slips back out to the main room.  He stops by the bar where Tarnan and Grimbo are watching the match.

"What did I miss?  Leathermen still up?"

While waiting for a reply, he looks for Nodwin to see if he's found a table.

In reply to Mario Crowfoot (msg # 147):

The wastrels are starting to show their true colors, dropping back in the totals as the steady mediocrity of the Leathermen
gradually takes the kead.

Still up 'n' costin' me copper," Grimbo grumbles.

Nodwin claims an empty table and pulls out the stone he had been polishing.

In reply to Nodwin Zideqick (msg # 150):

A worried looking middle-aged  goblin woman entrrs the bar and shoves the door shut behind her.
"Hooligans! They knocked over my stall and chased me!"

Nodwin calls out from his nearby table, "Are you injured, ma'am?"
This message was last edited by the player at 16:15, Thu 20 Aug 2015.

In an instant, Grimbo is off his stool, knife in hand. "Where?"

He was going to lose anyway.

[Private to Narrator: Made my Greed roll, 12:16, Today: Grimbo rolled 7 using 3d6. Greed self-control (12).]

In reply to Grimbo (msg # 153):

▪"Just outside. Some junior league juggas."
Her 3yes narrow upon seeing Grimbo.
"You... you played in the league. You know how the
 fans get when the other team does better. They are like that
now, and not our kind, attacking goblins in the street out of
 spite."

Nodwin shook his head with a grin at the sight of the angry goblin.  It looks like he had a good chance of getting some healing practice after all.

Grimbo barely stays to hear her out. "Adventurers!" He heads out the door, large knife bared.

In reply to Grimbo (msg # 156):

Mario follows Grimbo, unslinging his longbow and nocking an arrow as he goes.  No sooner does he draw the shaft from his quiver than it's replaced by another.

"Tarnan, Nodwin, let's go -- Grimbo can use the extra hands.  I'll collect my winnings later."

Nodwin pulls the leather coverings from his staff's blades, then follows out the door.

Mario pauses at the door long enough to see which way Grimbo went, then follows, pacing to catch up quickly, if possible.

Nodwin hefts his staff and quickly follows.

In reply to Nodwin Zideqick (msg # 160):

"No problem. I gots yer bets right here." says the goblin bookie, rapping his ledger

In reply to Lepkur (msg # 161):

Outside, a dozen or so orcish youths arerunning down the street, targeting goblin passerbys and businesses, throwing
 offal and clods of dirt. They are carrying weapons no more
Dangerous than padded ckubs and practice weapons for a jugga
match.
 Most are preteen to early teenagers.

Grimbo, taking in the situation, lowers his knife to his side but does not sheathe it. He moves toward the orc youth cautiously, saying in his native tongue, "Get out of here, you. This is a good neighborhood. We don't want troublemakers.

"Or," he can't help but add, "Find out what a real Jugger does."

OOC: Basing language choice on orcs and goblins both being goblin-kin in DF and likely having a common language. If that's not true in this setting, he uses Aralaise.

[Private to Narrator: Also this, if it helps: Reputation: recognized by goblinoids and jugga enthusiasts on 9 or less]

In reply to Grimbo (msg # 163):

While Grimbo speaks, Mario drops the arrow he had nocked (it'll vanish soon), slings his bow, and unslings his staff while moving up beside Grimbo (the off-hand side, so as not to hamper his weapon hand).

In Aralaise: "I'd rather not kill anyone tonight, but make no mistake, I can kill you just as dead with this as with my bow, if I have to."  He then repeats the same in broken Shevnian.  Hopefully the same meaning was conveyed.

Node in shakes his head at the undisciplined youths and begins outing the safety covers on his staff.

In reply to Nodwin Zideqick (msg # 165):

One of the larger orc whelps sneers at Grimbo,

"Your time came and went, old man. Now steer clear while we find the thief that
robbed Paroshi!"

Grimbo snarls.

[Private to Narrator: Do I know who Paroshi is? Missed iQ by 1, but it might be common knowledge.

15:08, Today: Huey Thumper rolled 11 using 3d6.  Who is Paroshi? IQ 10.]

"If a friend of yours was robbed, you should report it to the authorities, not behave like uncouth terrors and attack the unarmed merchants, citizens,and youngsters."

"What makes you think these peaceful merchants would hide a thief, anyway?"

In reply to Mario Crowfoot (msg # 169):

"They hide him because he they qwik. Glosso stole
Paroshi's girl."

OOC: Do I know any of these names? IQ roll in previous post, let me know if more are needed.

"So all this commotion is because a friend of yours' girlfriend left him for the person you are hunting?  Or are you claiming that she has been kidnapped?"
Nodwin attempts to clarify the situation.

In reply to Grimbo (msg # 171):

Recognition shines in Grimbo's eyes
[Private to Grimbo:Paroshi is an up and coming orc chain  player; Glosso is a good looking hotshot goblin qwik@]

"Ha! She just probably likes goblins better." Grimbo can't help but fan the flames.

"If you're willing to get your heads bashed because some girl hasn't sense enough to prefer you over Glosso, then come on, let's get bashing."

In reply to Mario Crowfoot (msg # 175):

You notice that adults of both orc and goblin peoples are stepping out into the streets to get a better view of this.

In reply to Narrator (msg # 176):

"It is a point of honor!"

"An orc's honor?" Grimbo asks derisively.
This message was lightly edited by the player at 21:11, Thu 27 Aug 2015.

Nodwin rubs his forehead.  "I think that it would be better if everyone would calm down.  I understand that honor is involved, and yes, Orcs do have their own honor system I am sure. But fighting over a female that has made a choice, without her even present is ridiculous. If you want to talk of honor, what about honoring her decision?"

In reply to Grimbo (msg # 178):

In a quiet aside: "Grimbo, there's no need to make this worse.  Let's see if Nodwin can convince these orcs to settle this peacefully -- or at least in private."

Grimbo nods and stands by.

In reply to Grimbo (msg # 181):

"I don't care whose honor has been offended, they
ruined my stall!"

Turning to the merchant, "How much damage was caused, were things knocked over and dumped to the ground?  Can it be cleaned up and set right, or were your goods and stall destroyed?"

In reply to Nodwin Zideqick (msg # 183):

"The stall was thrown  down, and could be repaired,
but my days baking is destroyed."

Turning back to the troublemakers, "What does your honor say about destroying an innocent baker's day's work?  Surely a set of truly honorable Orcs would find that a stain on their honor."

Waving a hand to indicate the neighborhood.  "Honor fights should stay between the individuals involved, they are best kept private. What does your honor tell you about your duty towards those uninvolved bystanders you have wronged today?."

Grimbo stays quiet and watches warily.

In reply to Grimbo (msg # 186):

Muurfash bows his head in shame,but not before backhanding
 one of his companions, who looked to be about to say something
racist.

"Goodwife, what would you have sold your day's baking for?  And what do you estimate will be the cost to repair your stall?"

In reply to Mario Crowfoot (msg # 188):

"The stall might cost a silver to repair, what was
left of my pies might have been a dozen copper,"

Ooc: she sounds honest 1 silver=$20 is the wage a carpenter would be paid, and she might make the same per day.

To the Orcs, "How about this, if you guys pay her for the damage, then I'll invite you into the tavern here and get you a drink. There is a very entertaining dart match you can watch."

Ooc: Is there a drinking age?  Would orc youths get ale or small beer, or something else?

In reply to Nodwin Zideqick (msg # 190):

Old enough to put a dog skull on a stake is old enough for ale.
This message was last edited by the GM at 02:16, Mon 31 Aug 2015.

Grimbo sheathes his knife and nods. "I got copper on th' table in there."

In reply to Grimbo (msg # 192):

"Why would I want to drink with a gobbo and his yuman
buddies?"

Grimbo stays silent.

"A drink is a drink.  Besides, you don't have to drink it with us if you don't want to.  You guys can get another table and just enjoy the darts.  There are some very smelly players on one of the teams to mock."
Shrugging and indicating the goblin merchant.
"Unless of course, you are afraid of new experiences like hanging out with humans and goblins?"

In reply to Nodwin Zideqick (msg # 195):

Mario re-slings his staff.

"Have you guys been warned about the Wastrel's ale?  Might want to hold your noses when you drink -- but it's cheap, and the first one's on Nodwin here."

In reply to Mario Crowfoot (msg # 196):

"I ain't afraid of nothin! Krosh needs us at the arena to practice  an I'm not showing up three sheets to the wind,
sorry bout the stall M'am, but Glosso likes your pies and
we aren't about to see him get any relief."

In reply to Muurfash (msg # 197):

Mario frowns and readies his staff again.

Sadly shaking his head, "So orc honor isn't even worth 20 copper.  I would never have believed it.  Not the Orcs I used to know and hear stories about."

In reply to Nodwin Zideqick (msg # 199):

The orc glowers and wav3s to the others.<Green  >"Ain't no yuman
insults my honor! Boys, your lunch money!"</Green>
The other orcs grudgingly toss some coppers into the street.
"Now you see Glosso, you don't serve him nothin."

Smiling at the youths, "You are good lads.  If I see this Glosso chap, I'll let him know you want to talk to him."
He waves with a short nod, "And good luck with your practice."

Grimbo stalks back into the bar to check on the dart game.

In reply to Grimbo (msg # 202):

"Grimbo, do you have any idea what this Glosso fellow looks like, other than green?"

"Ya, he's a little guy, good lookin'.

In reply to Grimbo (msg # 204):

"Could you be a little more specific?  Green and good looking probably covers a lot of goblin folk..."

"Ya," Grimbo says again. "He got a big scar across over his eyebrows. Looks good to ladies."

OOC: If Narrator doesn't mind the flavor

Nodwin helps the merchant collect the coins off the ground, then heads back inside as well.

In reply to Nodwin Zideqick (msg # 207):

"Thank you. That boy is a good looking young goblin, and the scar is not so big. That girl...she looks to be trouble for any she is with."

In reply to Quinzel (msg # 208):

Mario nods to the pie seller and slings his staff again as he returns to the Wastrel's Hope -- unsure whether to hope no one drank his ale, or hope someone did.

In reply to Mario Crowfoot (msg # 209):

The majority of the bar's patrons know better than to drink
the ale, and Mario's ale is untouched. On the other hand,
the Wastrel's  are leading the Leathermen  by a few points.

Grimbo nods with satisfaction as he re-takes his stool.

In reply to Grimbo (msg # 211):

Mario checks the scoreboard, then raises his mug again and shouts "Wastrels!"  In the process, he slops ale down his arm.

OOC: 19:28, Today: Mario Crowfoot rolled 15 using 3d6 (Carousing default, failure).
This message was last edited by the player at 23:30, Thu 03 Sept 2015.

Grimbo leans over. "Mario, what was that in tha back room?"

Returning to the table, Nodwin starts polishing a stone again while watching the dart match.

In reply to Grimbo (msg # 213):

Mario whispers: "There was a little dispute over a dice game, and Nodwin picked up a document excusing one or more people from taxes on items recovered from the undercity.  It's temporary, but can be converted to permanent."

"Intrestin'..."

In reply to Grimbo (msg # 216):

The Wastrel's rally at Mario's cheer, and take a lead on the
Leathermen.

Grimbo hollers encouragement.

In reply to Grimbo (msg # 218):

The Leathermen crumple on the final set of throws, leaving the Wastrels  victorious, and several of you a bit richer, as Lepkur pays out.

Grimbo actually rubs his hands together as he collects his winnings.

"Mario, ya said about tha Undercity? Like Guild exploring?"

Mario looks around for Tarnan, who is due the winnings from their own bet, before answering Grimbo.

"Yes, it's got to be more interesting, and is likely to pay better, than guarding the door at a clothier's.  I don't know how to get to the undercity, though."


OOC: Tarnan hasn't posted in about four weeks...

After accepting his bit of winnings, Nodwin finishes polishing the stone, sets it on the table and gestures at it.  When it begins to glow brightly, he bows his head in thanks and then puts it away.

In reply to Nodwin Zideqick (msg # 222):

"That's a nice trick, Nodwin.  Bring a bunch of those along to the undercity, and we wouldn't need to hire a torchbearer -- just get some glue and stick them on our helmets, or mount them in helmet lamps in place of the wicks.  How long do they last?"

In reply to Mario Crowfoot (msg # 223):

One of the dartsmen from the Leather Mask is getting sloppy
drunk, and the others seem to be trying to calm him down, but
 he is starting to cry into his ale, no doubt improving the
 flavor.

Looking at Mario, "Vejovis has blessed me with the ability to create these.  I had been planning to sell them, but if we find a way to go to the underground city, then I would be happy to provide for the group's lighting needs.  The stones I have at present will remain lit for six and twelve days, respectively.  Vejovis willing, I can always create more."

In reply to Nodwin Zideqick (msg # 225):

The bartender brings the weeping masker another drink, pausing to shrug, "Sorry about your brother. I hope he gets a proper burial."

Pointing to the sobbing leatherman, Nodwin quietly asks. "Do dart games often end like that?"

In reply to Nodwin Zideqick (msg # 227):

"Nah. His brother was murdered by the cult that
collapsed the street, a few blocks away from here. The cult
 murdered the street and turned 'em all undead. The
Plutocrats were demanding payment to lay 'em properly to
rest, saying it cost resources of the Hadereum to safely lay
 them withoutfear of contagion."

"Which cult was that attack?  Was it the Saturnines?  I heard them mentioned earlier having attacked and kidnapped some people, nothing was said about the undead though."

"Hmmm.  Sounds not far from what I might expect of the Hadereum.  They don't call money-grubbing politicians plutocrats for nothing.  What are they extorting to lay a walker these days?"

In reply to Mario Crowfoot (msg # 230):

"I am hearing a silver piece on top of the funerary charges. From what I  gather, they don't usually add the fee,
but the volume of it, mayhap thirty souls, has caused them to extend a lot of resources.
This message was last edited by the player at 16:01, Sat 12 Sept 2015.

Grimbo listens, interested. He has little use for the rich. At least as long as he's not among them.

"I can actually understand that, it is very exhausting to lay the undead to rest or to ensure the dead do not rise.  I myself am unable to perform that yet."

In reply to Nodwin Zideqick (msg # 233):

"On the other side of the coin, as it were, how many of the families there actually have as much as a silver piece between them, much less multiple coins to lay multiple family members?  If that ever happens to me, as long as I can still use my bow, leave me walking..."

In reply to Mario Crowfoot (msg # 234):

"To hear them tell it, some of them killed was whole
familes with now survivors."

"Tha cult collapse tha street? They come from tha Undercity?"

Grimbo puts two and two together and sees silver.

In reply to Grimbo (msg # 236):

"Dunno. It happened a few days ago, a quarter mile easr of this place."

In reply to JeanPaul (msg # 237):

"Are you thinking what I'm thinking, Grimbo?  I wonder how long it takes the city to fix a collapsed street?"

Grimbo snorts. "This city?

"Who should we round up?"

In reply to Grimbo (msg # 239):

"I'd have thought Tarnan would join us, but he seems to have vanished."  Mario looks around, trying to spot who was holding the bet he had going with Tarnan -- if the fellow's gone, the bet defaults, right?  "Nodwin's obvious; he's got lights and he's a priestly sort, so I presume he can heal a bit, plus he seems to know what to do with that bladed staff.  I don't know anyone else who'd be up for the undercity."

[Private to GM: If Tarnan is missing, Mario will try collect the 20 copper -- 15 he bet himself, and 5 Tarnan had put up.]

"Yes, I have some small healing talents, granted by Vejovis."

In reply to Nodwin Zideqick (msg # 241):

"Okay, so we have one archer (me), three close fighters (I'm pretty good with my staff, too, and I'm competent with a knife), one healer, light sources -- I've got a compass in my head, so I don't get lost easily; we probably won't need maps.  A mage would be helpful, ideally one who can cover areas and/or has some missile spells.  JeanPaul, do you know anyone like that who comes in here?"
This message was last updated by the player at 18:29, Sun 13 Sept 2015.

"I have a pistol crossbow as well."

In reply to Nodwin Zideqick (msg # 243):

"Ah, even better.  Can you fast-draw your bolts?"

"Ahh, no.  I only learned to take my time while shooting.  Though if I have the energy to spend, Vejovis gives me the ability to fire a missile, or even apply his flaming power directly into a weapon."

In reply to Nodwin Zideqick (msg # 245):

"Hmm.  I've heard of stuff that provides power for spells, but I doubt we can afford any."  Mario looks around again, still trying to spot the person who was holding his bet with Tarnan.  "Can you make the arrows from my bow flame?  That could be handy..."

In reply to Mario Crowfoot (msg # 246):

The bartender shrugs. "You'd hafta check the guild."

In reply to Mario Crowfoot (msg # 246):

"Sorry Mario, I can't make your arrows flame, but I could set your bow on fire.... Though as it is wood there wouldn't be much left afterwards." Nodwin chuckles.

"I do have a power item, I am frugal in using it though, I prefer to save it for emergencies, since it costs to recharge it."

"Game's over. Lets head ta tha Guild and plan. Ale's better."

In reply to Grimbo (msg # 249):

OOC: post in Juniors