A Thief, A Wizard, an Ogre, and a Martial Artist walk into a Bar...

Outside, Grend leaned against the wall thinking deeply.

[Private to GM: He's trying to decide how best to behave to promote traditional Urukhai values. He wants to be an inspiration to all the young orcs out there and lead them away from the distraction of jugga.]

Huey digs in to his food, somewhat sloppily. "So. I need work, but the kind that's about thumping, not talking. Anybody got ideas?"

In reply to Huey Thumper (msg # 3):

I had a good time beating up a troll village. Wonder if there is more work like that?"

Grend returned to the table, a thoughtful look on his face.

"Who hired for saving goblintown from Urukhai job?"

In reply to Christine Bjorn (msg # 4):

a burly and buxom barmaid passes by.
"Marie? Is that you? I like your boots. Huey, wasn't there enough thumping to do on
 that job or was there a problem?  Grend, it was Vilgar and Lepkur. They want their
 oddsmaking to get back to normal."
This message was last edited by the GM at 20:32, Sat 23 Jan 2016.

"Nah, Madeline, just lots of talking. No thumping. I think thumping would have made things worse."

In reply to Huey Thumper (msg # 7):

Christine distinctly ignores Madeline.

Grend chuckled and looked at Oly. "That's what you were being so moral about? Gambling? Helping bookmakers?"

Oly smiles back... I have my beliefz... and den dere is work. I dry do follow my beliefz, but can'd alwayz.

In reply to Christine Bjorn (msg # 8):

"Wait a minute... You aren't Marie, are you?"

"Who's Marie?"

In reply to Huey Thumper (msg # 12):

"Marie is a mountain elf bard, and very popular.
She looks almost exactly like your friend with the nice
boots, only more outgoing and friendly."

"Huh."

In reply to Huey Thumper (msg # 14):

"So what happened with the goblin thing?"
This message was lightly edited by the GM at 19:14, Tue 26 Jan 2016.

In reply to Madeline (msg # 15):

With little happening, Christine will head to her room, beckoning Chris to follow her. She will dispell the gaseous form and put her armour back on, before heading back to rest at the common room.

Grend waved a hand idly. "Some human 'love conquers all' bullshit. I don't know. I don't care."

"Ardenas is still working on it. Talking to goblins and orcs."

After a weeks absence from the hustle of the guild hall Hitomi, sporting a new badge of rank in the guild, makes a languid entrance and heads to a table in the back. "Did I hear someone say something about beating up trolls?  That might not be a good idea in the future."

"Not that I remember," Grend said. "Why don't you want to beat up trolls?"

In reply to Grend (msg # 20):

"I would have sworn I heard the elf saying something about it when I came in.  A good friend of mine is engaged to a troll, and he is not the kind you want angry with you.  Its also a waste of a business opportunity if that sort of thing interests you."

"I don't pay attention to the elf." He gestured vaguely in the direction that Christine had gone. "But challenge is never a reason to hold yourself back. If for some reason I had to kill your friend's troll fiance, I would not cower because of the danger. I would relish the chance to test my skills against a worthy opponent."

In reply to Grend (msg # 20):

"Yeah, Rigo invested a little in Mythos Songau's
Bid to reinforce your climbing winch, and got some orc from
the merchant's guild to go for Stark's trading scheme.
If the guild is backing it, there must be something to it.
Speaking of guild investments, Lepkur has been hurting over
this orc-goblin thing."

[Private to Hitomi: Mythos is another ranking guild operative, a trap artificer]

In reply to Madeline (msg # 23):

"Well friend, I never look for a fight if there is another way, and with Stark another way is a better way, especially if he sees you coming. "  Hitomi then turns to Madeline.  "So Mythos got the merchants to buy in as well?  I wonder what his cut is?  You say goblins and orcs are at it?  What this time?"

"Agreed. A quick clean kill is better than a pointless fight."

In reply to Grend (msg # 25):

"Less mess to clean too.  There is some kind of problem between them over a cheerer on the orc side running off with a goblin player. The orcs are pissed about it.  Mythos wanted a project and he is playing around with some kind of mining basket contraption."

Gigi enters the common room, she settles down and listen to what going on in the room.

In reply to Gigi Nivens (msg # 27):

Christine comes in after a bit, followed by Chris. She looks around for likely customers.

In reply to Christine Bjorn (msg # 28):

Christine can see, aside from the half ogre and the catgirl
chatting  with the barmaid  who thought you were someone
else, a pixie, a couple of goblins and a few orcbloods along with two familiqr sorts, Molag and Haskell.

A thin young man in leather armor takes a seat at the bar. He has an easy going way about him, despite the slightly drawn face hinting at a degree of sleeplessness. His clothing is common, a tunic and breeches, and the only weapon he appears to carry is a large knife at his belt.

While of average appearance and his clothing is worn and shabby, there's a certain "something" likable about him. Maybe it's his smile, or the way he carries himself, or an unidentifiable charm, but he just seems likable.

Seeing her past companion enter the room Hitomi approaches.  "Hello again.  What have you been about since we got back?"
This message had punctuation tweaked by the player at 19:02, Mon 01 Feb 2016.

In reply to Narrator (msg # 29):

"Christine will check with Molag and Haskell if they have found any work."

In reply to Christine Bjorn (msg # 32):

"Hey any more trollslaying? Things have been dry around here"

"It will be better, for everyone, if they stay dry where the trolls are concerned.  I would hate to see anyone act stupidly."

In reply to Hitomi (msg # 34):

"Whatcha mean? We slaughtered dozens of em and got
thick with coin for the trouble."

"I agree," Grend said. "Slaughtering trolls is a good thing for everyone involved. Killers get loot, trolls get to stop being trolls."

He slid off of his stool. "Hey, who wants to go kill some trolls and take their possessions?"

"What's going on with trolls, Hitomi?"

In reply to Molag Anders (msg # 35):

Hitomi answers Molag and Grend in a cold voice.

"Troll slaying for fun and profit is done.  They are not unthinking beasts and there will be no bounty on them.  Now, a troll attacks guild members, or break laws the guild actually cares about, well we will put paid to that challenge, you have my word on that."

Turning to Huey she says "Huey, what is going on with trolls now is business, guild business.  Now some folk might not see it that way, just as some folk thin ogres and ogre kin ought to be hunted down just for being that, but that is just plain stupid.  Take the time to speak with one and you will find them smarter, and more open to reason, than some I see in this hall right now.  You had much dealing with them Huey?"

The orc's smile broadens. "Ahhh... but you presume that 'lack of a bounty' or 'ability to think' is reason enough not to kill something. That has yet to be exhibited. Should we not kill humans? Should we not kill orcs? Should we not kill Ogres or Kobolds or Goblins? Are we not all equal beneath death's scythe?"

He pointed at Hitomi. "I assert that there is no reason to single out trolls for protection! Counter my argument in honest debate or I will bathe the streets in trolls' blood and decorate the guildhall with their skulls!"

"Nah, not me, Hitomi. I was just wondering."

I dink id iz dem who will uze your head for Jugga or whadever dey do ... I bin hearing zum preddy imprezzive zduff aboud dem here rezendly. nod do menzion dad dey regenerade!

"So what?" Grend rounded on Oly. "Anyone can regenerate if they harness their Murderous Intent. I am no troll. Not yet. But already I heal many times faster than even another orc. And my own skills are stronger than any troll's. Can they leap over buildings? Can they punch five times in one second, shattering wood with each blow? Can they dodge lightning? Can they scream so loud that birds explode? No! They can but drool."

"The difficulty of a task will not dissuade me. Fear will not stay my hand. Nor will human ethics."

He glanced at Hitomi. "I say that this human's desire to protect the trolls comes from the fact that his friend will be marrying one, rather than any rational reason. I cannot stomach such blatant favoritism. I didn't even care about killing trolls until he said that I should not."
This message was last edited by the player at 23:04, Mon 01 Feb 2016.

In reply to Grend (msg # 42):

Mad3line looks over at Hitomi
"He? Human? Hitomi? Really?"

"I can only assume that such weakness comes from human lips. Or perhaps an elf, infected with human morality, which is just as bad. A disease that runs rampant through Northport."
This message was last edited by the player at 00:51, Tue 02 Feb 2016.

Hitomi laughs loudly at Grend's outburst.  "Infernal kittens is he really that stupid Madeline?  I will credit him with brass ones, but not for thinking with them!.  Grend, have you heard anything I have said, or paid any attention to recent events around here?  The Guild is doing business with trollkind now.  Do you want to foul that up?  Would you like to go upstairs with me and explain why you want to ruin a promising relationship?  Perhaps you want to explain why anyone not human should be killed by your say so, and how that will help all of us, including you, who are not?  Don't be shy brass for brains, they will see you if I ask nicely, and this one time I will be happy to."

"Guild does business with humans, yet we kill humans. What's the difference? Or do you think all trolls are the same trolls?"



"Clean the shit out of your ears and listen more carefully, idiot. The choice to kill or not to kill should not be made along speciest lines. I find that highly offensive. Humans. Orcs. Trolls. Goblins. Ogres. Elves. All are equal under the reaper's blade. I will obey no orders not to kill a given species. And besides... no such orders have been issued. There are just your pointless and empty words.

"And what authority do you have? No, seriously, I have no idea who you are or why I should care what you have to say about murdering trolls. You certainly have no good arguments, so in the absence of actual authority I will kill all the trolls I like. Then maybe the halflings."

Still muttering to himself, the orc wandered out of the common room, presumably to kill some trolls.

[Private to GM: No, he's just messing with Hitomi. He's more concerned about the state of orcs in Northport and the infectious spread of human culture.]
This message was last edited by the player at 01:31, Tue 02 Feb 2016.

Hiz zoluzhion do every problem iz do bead id up or kill id... he knowz nuddin' elze.

In reply to Oly (msg # 47):

"Talk is cheap, and his cheaper than most.  Still, no guild rule about bluster so unless he starts trouble nothing to be done."

In reply to Hitomi (msg # 48):

Christine smiled at the arrogant orc revelling in his ignorance.

"If there is money to be made killing Trolls, then we kill trolls. And we did, too. Thought I would like to see this orc fight against the real combat trolls, not just the soft ones. Hitomi, the way to deal with him is to point it at something that needs beating up, then step back. Don't say what he can't do...it just give him something he has to try. Like a bull that has charged too many red rocks, his small mind can't comprehend how anyone else thinks."

"The Guild used to think trolls were just vermin.  We learned otherwise after killing a few ourselves.  They are like any other thinking folk - some good, no doubt some troublesome, but worthy of respect until they show otherwise."

Azrael had half-turned to watch the argument between the orc and the others, but now that it died down, slipped off his bar stool to approach Hitomi.

"Sorry, I'm new to the city, new to the guild. I don't suppose you could tell me how that's decided? Who sets guild policy regarding which creatures are given respect and which ones aren't? Or are matters like that left up to the city?"
This message was last edited by the player at 23:52, Tue 02 Feb 2016.

"The Guild Masters set policy on how the Guild works, what jobs we take and what jobs we don't.  The city fathers have their own rules, and the Guild Masters take those in to account, even if only to know what rules the Guild is willing to break."

[Private to GM: I am making this up, but it tracks with what I remember.  If my result allows, please edit to correct obvious errors.  Base skill is 13 on Guild Lore.

09:49, Today: Secret Roll: Hitomi rolled 13 using 3d6.  Guild Lore.]

"How do they decide?" the newer member was clearly interested in guild politics. "Is their a council? Is it an open debate, or behind closed doors? And how are such rulings disseminated to the membership?"

He held up a hand. "I'm not disagreeing with the guild stance on dealing with the trolls, I'm just curious as to who made that decision, how they did so, and how the rank and file are going to be informed. That way I can keep up with future policy changes."

In reply to Azrael (msg # 53):

"I may be able to answer that, Vilgar explained some
 of it to me. Votein the council, which is factional, is
 determined by how many levels of rank you have. Like Vilgar,
Ashbury and Bellarius, Hitomi has two levels of rank, and one
 level was gained because of the troll issue. The master,
Rigo, has  rank 5. Aemon,like past master Sakemoko, is rank
4. Camilla, Spielgud, Valdomyr and Lepkur have rank 3.
Up until recently, the guild's  primary income was based on
 gambling on contests, like proficiency runs, and arena
sport. The goblin/orc problem and some city crackdowns on
Guild venues has depreciated that. The opening of a trading market accessible only through the guild is now an added
focus for revenue. The trolls Hitomi has dealt with represent
A significant  financial interest, and the vote for working
with the trolls was approved by a 70% margin."

"Do rank one members vote, or is that reserved for rank two and above?"

In reply to Azrael (msg # 55):

"Base members don't   vote, but rank one and up, like me and Haskell here do."

Azrael bowed. "Thank you for indulging my curiosity."

In reply to Azrael (msg # 57):

"The main draw for rank is that you trade in as if
your wealth was higher, and also you get to bump the lower
 ranked candidates for quests and other jobs."
This message was last edited by the player at 17:51, Thu 04 Feb 2016.

"How does one increase in rank?"

In reply to Azrael (msg # 59):

"Generally by investing time and dedication to guild business. It helps to have a sponsor."


OOC  just pay 5 Cp per level, no real rp needed unless you are going for level 3 or better

ooc: Yeah, I'm just trying to get the IC rationalization for it. :)

In reply to Azrael (msg # 61):

"Speaking of work, is there any?"

"I took a week off so I don't know for certain, but I will head upstairs and see what I can shake loose.  I don't want to loose my edge."

With that, Hitomi heads upstairs.

[Private to GM: If I remember correctly, upstairs is where other masters are generally to be found and where Camilla and such dole out work.  If there is nothing there I suppose I will just head back and visit the Trolls to see what happens.]

In reply to Hitomi (msg # 63):

Oddly, Bellarius   is out of his office, and left a message
Back after noon

OOC:  What time is it now?

In reply to Hitomi (msg # 65):

Given the change from gruel to hot brown in the kitchens, shortly before noon.

OOC: Thank you

[Private to GM: Private because she is not downstairs.  Given that Hitomi is Curious and all that she will nose about upstairs, excepting in other masters private space.]

In reply to Hitomi (msg # 67):

Bellarius  has a desk with a locked cabinet and an unlocked  drawer. There is a table with a locked cabinet and a jug and goblets on top.
This message was last edited by the GM at 19:07, Mon 08 Feb 2016.

Hitomi smiles and begins examining everything she can, from every angle, without touching anything, talking to herself all the while.  "Too easy, too easy, Bellarius isn't stupid and I wasn't weaned yesterday."

[Private to GM: 18:43, Today: Secret Roll: Hitomi rolled 10 using 3d6.  Will curiosity @12 get the cat?  Thinking her code and loyalty to the guild will restrain.

Please see if she can spot any traps, but she wont' touch anything.  I am playing this as a fun challenge to see what she can learn without actually violating his privacy.]

In reply to Hitomi (msg # 69):

The file cabinet inthe desk is where he keeps his guild records. Writing equipment is probably in the drawer.
The sidetable probably has liquor.

Hitomi leaves the office and heads down the hall to see if Camilla is about.

In reply to Hitomi (msg # 71):

Peering into the large conference room, you can see Camilla
laying out some papers.

"Pardon me mistress Camilla, do you have a moment?"

Back at the bar, Azrael finishes his drink and checks the height of the sun out the window. "Suppose they won't be needing me at the docks, then."

Zeemz do quied ... wunder whadz up?

In reply to Oly (msg # 75):

"What were you going to the docks for?"

In reply to Hitomi (msg # 73):

"How can I help you, Hitomi... and congratulations."

Azrael waved a hand dismissively. "There was an incident. Fight. Very good chance the guard was going to need to ask for my services, so I decided to wait here and see if that was going to be the case."

He smiled. "But that's how this business is, some of the time. Feast or famine."

Why dey need a necromanzer?

"Oh, you know what I do?" Azrael was surprised and pleased. "Have you heard of me?"

I lizden bezd I can

"Thank you mistress.  A week was plenty long to celebrate, but it feels like I was occupied much, much longer.  I need to get back into the mix before I loose my edge, and you always know where the opportunities are.  I was hoping you would point me at a good one.  I hear that trade relations with the Trolls are starting up well, I can help there if needed, picked up some Trollish myself now, but I am always interested in the hard jobs when they suit my skills.  Do you have anything?"

Azrael nodded. "Well. I am an exorcist by trade, but I supplement my income as I can. I do not normally disturb the earned rest of the dead, but in a case where I can help a murder victim name his killer, the spirits are usually more understanding."

Zo fer da dead onez...  I wuz dinkin' fer da wounded.

In reply to Oly (msg # 84):

Christine decides it is time to get a bit more proactive looking for work, and seeks out Camilla.

In reply to Oly (msg # 84):

"So if there has been no call for you, then the healer was successful. Interesting. I did not know the
bluecloaks  were making a regular   use of your kind of work. That makes wetwork in this city that much riskier."

"I wouldn't call it regular," the exorcist said. "Not regular enough to make a living. That's why I joined the guild. Just aren't enough hauntings and murders to keep me in my daily bread."

In reply to Azrael (msg # 87):

That is still a promising skillset. Can't say my boss
has any immediate needs for a necromancer, but he has
employed  them in the past, mostly to deal with physical
things that won't stay dead."

In reply to Hitomi (msg # 82):

Camilla pauses for a moment.
"We have been so focused on trying to stem the
revenue losses from Lepkur's gambling operations due to this
Feud between the orc and goblin sports teams, and trying to
smooth things out with the merchant's guild over the troll matter. It would help alot if something could be done about
reducing the opposition to our man with the trolls over in
 the Merchant's Guild. If you could promote Rushagorn
Brokadin to them for handling trad3 under the city, it could
 help establish more of our interests.
There are a few other things, but I have to consult with
Bellarius  when he gets back from Sakemoko's."
This message was lightly edited by the GM at 15:25, Wed 10 Feb 2016.

In reply to Camilla (msg # 89):

"Where is the opposition coming from, some of the trolls or someone in the Merchant's Guild?  I don't believe I know Rushagorn Brokadin, what can you tell me about him?"

[Private to GM: Not at all sure I parsed Camila's request properly.]

In reply to Hitomi (msg # 90):

"Rush is a merchant who used to be a quartermaster
 for the Deepguard, and despite a little bit of shade in his
 past, is something of an asset to our guild. The Merchant's
 guild, on the other hand, has not allowed him to gain rank
because he is an Orc. Our only other member with rank in both guilds is Ashbury, and he may be aware of what needs the factions have within their guild, and what can be done to advance him. Rush is also unaware of this maneuvering, and we
would like to keep it that way, as we have a plan for
establishing stores of supplies within the undercity to
better allow our members to explore. We also have acquired
writs from the Hadereum  that will remove their tax..."

"Necromancy is only one of my skills," Azrael told Madeline. "I'm good with my words, handy with a blade, quick with a counterspell."

In reply to Camilla (msg # 91):

"Where might I find this Ashbury then?  I will start with him and then see what can be done.  Does he reside with us or does he have quarters elsewhere?"

Dinkin' Ardnez ain' gonna need our help, zo maybe zum job hindin' be zmard...

Oly Pushes back and gets up to do some job searching as well.

In reply to Oly (msg # 94):

"He has his offices just accross the hall.  I can help you more when Bellarius   gets back."

"Thank you mistress.  I will see if Ashbury is in."

Hitomi goes to Ashbury's offices to see if he is in.

In reply to Hitomi (msg # 96):

Once Christine sees Hitomi leave, she heads for Camilla's office and request an audience with her.

In reply to Christine Bjorn (msg # 97):

There is a sign on Bellarius desk that says Back after noon

Hitomi can see Ashbury's shop, and Christine passing her. Oly is ascending the stairs with a bowl of stew, and an odd looking elfin priest is sitting  on a stool over by Xandalar.

In reply to Narrator (msg # 98):

Christine sighs and checks the time.

In reply to Christine Bjorn (msg # 99):

Its about 1130 AM

OOC I am stalling while I try to figure a gig suitable

OOC:  bar fight!

In reply to Hitomi (msg # 101):

OOC: Preferably while the fire mage is in the other room!

In reply to Christine Bjorn (msg # 102):

OOC:  You still have your shadow (from your character description)?  Shall we go ladies against the gents in the bar?  Hitomi could use an excuse to limber up. ;>)

In reply to Hitomi (msg # 103):

Yes Chris is around, but he does not understand complex terms like 'non-lethal'!

In reply to Christine Bjorn (msg # 104):

The shaven elf is mounting the stairs carrying a bundle of paper.

Oly notices and heads toward his office (he'll open the door for Bellarius, if there is one)

OOC:  Any sign of Ashbury?

In reply to Hitomi (msg # 107):

Bellarius nods in thanks as Oly opens the door, Hitomi spots
the proprietor of Ashbury's Outfitters in the back of his
shop, coiling rope.

In reply to Narrator (msg # 108):

Spotting Ashbury, Hitomi enters his shop, closing the door behind her.

[Private to GM: Private because Camilla said she wanted this quiet.  "Greetings Master Asbury.  Mistress Camilla suggested that you could offer some guidance as to how I might help advance the Guild's interests within the Merchant Guild."]

In reply to Narrator (msg # 108):

Id zeemz Ardenaz don' need zo much help ...god anyding else we can do do make money?

In reply to Oly (msg # 110):

Christine enters after those who rushed up after her but does not feel the need to repeat what has already been said.

Azrael chills out at the bar.

In reply to Azrael (msg # 112):

Azrael notes that the others have all gone upstairs to an
area where jobs are often obtained.
Christine, Oly and Dareos (?) Are seeking audience with
Bellarius.

 Hitomi has stepped into Ashbury's
[Private to Hitomi: give me a bit i have to compose some details]

In reply to Christine Bjorn (msg # 111):

I give Christine a polite smile and nod of acknowledgement.

"It seems our paths continue to cross.  Such is the serpentine will of Sethygg."

Azrael checks out the cluster in Bellarius's office and decides to swing by when it's not so crowded. Geez give the guy some breathing room.

In reply to Azrael (msg # 115):

The shaven elf puts his stack of papers on his desk.
"Let's  see,Chirstine Bjorn, pyromancer at large,
Dareos Madrigar, priest of Sethygg, and our very own Oly. All we need is a fighter type and we have the classic quartet. I am sure Haskell is available   if you don't   have anyone else in mind... let me stow these files and I   will check in with Camilla."

Chrizdine god dad big dude wid her...

PM

[Private to GM: No Problem.  Are you thinking solo thread or figuring out what crew to involve?]

In reply to Hitomi (msg # 118):

"Indeed, Dareos. Haskell likewise works well with us, as dpes Susanne."

Christines big friend isin her room. She does not suggest him as the primary fighter.

OOC: There's also a big dude still at the back table

In reply to Huey Thumper (msg # 120):

"I will discuss this with Camilla."

In reply to Hitomi (msg # 118):

"Hitomi, what can I do for you. We got some nagateppos in last week."

"Greetings Master Asbury.  Mistress Camilla suggested that you could offer some guidance as to how I might help advance the Guild's interests within the Merchant Guild.  But do show me what you have."

[Private to GM: I had thought this was supposed to be on the quiet side, but I guess the other players will ignore IC what they could not really hear.  I have no idea what nagateppos are - my net search turned up nothing.]

In reply to Huey Thumper (msg # 120):

I notice Huey before I reach the stairs.  I give him a nod of acknowledgement smile, and continue up the stairs.
This message was last edited by the player at 19:58, Fri 11 Mar 2016.

In reply to Dareos Madrigar (msg # 124):

OOC: Thanks, Dareos, but I think you and the others are upstairs from me. That's why I didn't say anything IC when the conversation turned to big dudes.

Azrael brings his drink over to Huey's table. "So what do you do?"

"Oh, I'm mostly just looking for a nice girl. Do you know Strong Clair?"

Huey hestiates. "Er, in the Guild? I mostly hit things so other folk can do whatever the job is." Huey strokes his axe.

In reply to Huey Thumper (msg # 127):

The elf finishes sorting his paperwork, locks some of it away
in his desk, and heads in to see Camilla while carrying
 several scrolls.
[Private to Hitomi:carry on with this in at the Outfitters]

In reply to Bellarius (msg # 128):

Christine follows him as he goes to discuss things relevant to her with Camilla. Unless asked not to...

In reply to Christine Bjorn (msg # 129):

"Pardon, let me convey these to Camilla. We have something   in mind."

In reply to Bellarius (msg # 130):

As you sit in the anteroom, Aethebert passes by, does a doubletake and returns to the doorway. "Mistress Bjorn?
Is that you? I believe  I   may have found a solution to your puzzle box."

In reply to Aethelbert (msg # 131):

"Ah, Aethelbert, good to see you. I am all ears..."

In reply to Christine Bjorn (msg # 132):

"If you will come to my study...

In reply to Aethelbert (msg # 133):

"Be my pleasure."

She will follow him, with Chris.

In reply to Christine Bjorn (msg # 134):

The others look on mournfully as you leave.
Inside Aethelbert's study, sheets of parchment covered with
trollish runes lie scattered accross his desk and pinned to
the wall. In the middle of his desk lies the stone cylinder.

In reply to Aethelbert (msg # 135):

"So, what have you found."

Oly rejoins the Table, having learned nothing as of yet.

Azrael lifts his glass to greet Oly's return.

In reply to Christine Bjorn (msg # 136):

"There seem to be only a few dozen ten letter words in
trollish, and once broken down into words with the same letters
on the first three reels the list became much shorter.
Eventually  it became a chouce between  'armastatud' or beloved,
And 'vastumeelne' or abhorrent. Oddly, both seem to work..."
This message was last edited by the player at 22:19, Wed 09 Mar 2016.

Ardenas enters, accompanied by Kasmir, Renolan, and Clair.

"Oly!  I was hoping I might find you quickly!  I may need your help.  Oh, and who's your friend?"

OOC: about what time of day is it now?

Oly nods...  I am available ... diz iz Azrael.

Azrael gave Ardenas a nod. "You're certainly in a fluster."

In reply to Aethelbert (msg # 139):

"
How can we select between them?"

"I need to have someone with higher Guild rank than I have to get back to the hobgoblin city, after I finish an errand for Pallido.  And I think you probably have more applicable skills than I do for the errand.

"Remember Khrosh?  Pallido wants me to bring him a trophy from Khrosh's telovadnica to prove I'm against Murfash.  Given the ease with which one jugger beat me last time we were there, I was thinking burglary might be a better way to get the trophy than just walking in and asking for it."

"What about that orc that was in here?" Azrael gestured towards the tavern doors. "I mean, I'm not going to judge you if you want to go around stealing things, but there's less risk if you get him to win it for you. Plus, if he loses, you get to see him humbled and you can go steal it anyway. Win win, right?"

"If you mean Grend, he was the reason our group fragmented when we were on the way to meet Pallido.  He lives to kill stuff and humiliate other unarmed fighters, as far as I can tell.  Further, he was at Khrosh's just as we were leaving, and told them he'd be back in a month to humiliate them further; I doubt his inflated honor would let him back there before then."

"Sounds like an asshole."

In reply to Azrael (msg # 147):

"I wouldn't disagree.  But I don't think there's much likelihood he'd help, or be of any real help, in obtaining a trophy from Khrosh.  Beyond that, I very seriously doubt Khrosh would put up one of his team's trophies as a stake on any contest."

"Can I help?" Huey asks. Then he waves to Strong Clair. "Hi, Clair."

"I won't turn down the offer, Huey.  Here's the deal: in order to take me to see Glosso and Hramina, Pallido demands I prove I'm against Murfash by bringing him a particular jugger trophy from Khrosh's telovadnica.  It's missing the upper left canine, and has a red stripe on the nose.

"I'm pretty certain I can't beat Khrosh along with a bunch of his stronger students, but I felt pretty confident we might be able to get into the place and lift the trophy when they're shut down for the night.  The sooner the better, of course; every delay is more time for Murfash's jugger mates and toadies to bust up goblin town."

"Right. And I'll be there in case it isn't empty."

"And if the place isn't empty?" Azrael asked. "Say, you know, that Khrosh lives there. Or that his students have night classes. What's the plan then?"

"Ardenas talks to'em. People listen more when I'm behind the talker."

"Yeah, but these are orcs. Their response to intimidation is to try and conquer what they're afraid of." Azrael slowly smiled. "Well, you know best if whatever payoff you're working towards is worth their ire and resentment. Last thing we need is the orcs turned on the guild. Especially after we've just achieved parity with the trolls. But if 'talk to the orcs' is the plan, perhaps bring a shrewd negotiator."

I'll zcoud de plaze; whadz da pay?

Azrael pointed at Oly. "Excellent question."

In reply to Azrael (msg # 142):

It is about one o'oclock, as observed by the change from gruel to hot brown in the kitchens.

"Honestly, Oly, I've forgotten whether we were even getting paid for all this, but this is part of trying to calm down the situation between Murfash and Glosso -- Azrael, Murfash is an orc jugger, while Glosso is a goblin quick.  Hramina was a cheerer for Murfash, but changed her mind and ran off with Glosso.  Since then, the orc juggers and their supporters have been trashing goblin town looking for Glosso -- and presumably not to buy him a drink.

"Pallido said he'd take me to Glosso if we can bring him this trophy.  Then we have to try to figure out, with Glosso and Hramina, how to defuse the situation with Murfash and his team."

"Oh, so you're doing this out of altruism? Good for you, and I wish you the best of luck."

"Ardenas, do ya think Lepkur might pay us if we tell him what we're doing?"

"I'm pretty sure someone was going to get paid for this; otherwise, I don't know any reason Christine Bjorn would have joined the group.  As far as Grend, he was just tagging along after we met him at the telovadnica; he wasn't really even part of the group."

Ardenas's eyes widen a little.

"Oh, yes.  I need to get over to the cathedral and see if Father Robard still has my backpack.  Let me grab a bowl of hot brown first, though.  I haven't eaten since last night."

"Could be that everyone had joined because they all assumed someone was going to pay them."

"Actually, I sort of recall that Lepkur might have been offering something -- the property damage and distraction of the juggers were upsetting the odds.  He's a bookmaker, Azrael, if you're not from around here."

Den he zhould unnerzdnd da need fer numberz ... like whadz da pay? I kin na' ead fer free all a dime...

"Bills to pay, mouths to feed," Azrael said. "Nothing in this world is for free."

"Then again, what sort of city will this be to find a living in if the orcs and goblins fall into actual war?  All that's holding that back at present is that the goblins haven't retaliated.  One tit-for-tat response, and we could have blocks burning, archers in the streets, and enough disruption of trade and distribution to lead to widespread starvation.

"I'm not primarily interested in wealth.  I need to make a living, yes, but my main goal is to find out what happened to my parents -- which I can't effectively do if there's a civil war on."

"I dunno. Might be easier that way," Azrael said. "If you're the sort to sneak into places and take what you want without asking. But in any event, I wish you nothing but the best of luck in saving the city."

"I'll help, Ardenas. I kinda like having a peaceful city to live in. But we could still maybe ask Lepkur or Vilgar."

Yeah...azk dem ... bud I'll look ad geddin' da ding you wand.


[Private to GM: So this might cement my reputation?]

"I can probably help.  I won't have much in the way of burglary skills, but I can climb, walk lightly enough to leave no tracks, and if necessary, I can levitate myself or someone else for a short time.  I can also walk up walls, or let someone else do so, or make my own or someone else's sprint spectacular, for about as long as it normally takes to run a quarter mile.  Oh, and you've seen me manipulate locks by magic, though I don't know them well enough to do it with tools.

"I can't do any of those things for long, or more than once or twice without resting, but once is frequently enough."

Doze would be a big help I am zure....

In reply to Oly (msg # 171):

Christine will try the word for 'beloved' first.

In reply to Christine Bjorn (msg # 172):

The sage shows you the combination of runes, and you align the sliders... there is a click and the end of the tube falls out, followed  by  a gold ring.

In reply to Aethelbert (msg # 173):

Christine checks it to see if there is anything else there, and then examines the ring.

"Anything ypu ca tell me about the ring?

Also, is this puzzle box worth anything to you Aethelbert?"

She examines it to see if it might hold anything else.
This message was last edited by the player at 10:21, Fri 11 Mar 2016.

"Mmm.  That seems to be about it for this bowl."  Ardenas looks around for a moment, then wipes his mouth on his sleeve.  "Would you two like to come with me to the cathedral?  We should probably go look over the telovadnica once I've checked with Father Robard, look for ways in and out, get what information we can about the floor plan, and so forth."

Zure... Nod much doin' here.

"Good luck."

Huey joins Ardenas for the return trip.

In reply to Christine Bjorn (msg # 174):

Aethelbert  looks over at Christine expectantly.
"I am curious, what happens if you set it to read
 'Abhorrent'? The box is of interest to me, and I would gladly pay you $50 for it, in addition to waiving my
customary fee of $125."

[Private to Christine Bjorn: the ring is non-magical and
looks to be worth about $200]

In reply to Huey Thumper (msg # 178):

Ardenas, Huey, and Oly regroup in a Day at the Dojo.

Azrael gives them a final wave and returns with his mug to the bar.

In reply to Azrael (msg # 181):

Upstairs Dareos is resting in Bellarius' anteroom. The elf looks at him with one eye raised.
"If it is just going to be you, I might have to pair you up with Haskell, Suszana, or Molag... but I fear we may need another caster... wasn't there a Necromancer about?"

In reply to Bellarius (msg # 182):

"Well, be my guest to try it and see."

She hands him the puzzle and watches.

In reply to Christine Bjorn (msg # 183):

Cautiously, the sage spins the dials, and the other end pops off.
  Gingerly, he lifts the cylinder and a small stone figurine
Of a nude troll making an obscene gesture.

"Remarkable! May I keep it also?"
Aethelbert  holds the figurine toward you, genitals first.
This message was last edited by the player at 23:19, Sun 13 Mar 2016.

In reply to Bellarius (msg # 182):

The inner door opens and Camilla steps out with one of the
scrolls Bellarius had brought her earliet.
"Bellarius, we have a situation with the bishop,
regarding that expedition we sent out last week. I will
need dossiers on all of the likely candidates ,  and I will need to question several of them personally."

In reply to Aethelbert (msg # 184):

Christine draws back from it in disgust.

"You aught to be giving me compensation for the way you  terrorize me with that thing!"

In reply to Christine Bjorn (msg # 186):

"My apologies. It truly is a wonderful fetish object.
I believe this was intended to act as a marriage proposal,
with a contingency  for rejection. I would buy the full set from you gladly, say $200 for the ring, $50 for the box
itself, after discounting my fee, and $75 for this fellow... $325?"

In reply to Aethelbert (msg # 187):

"Make it $500 and I wont destroy that horrid statue!"

In reply to Bellarius (msg # 182):



"Necromancy is a curious pursuit."

I stand, straighten my clothing, and smile at Bellarius.


"However, it isn't one that's particularly offensive to my order. Tell me of this job."

In reply to Christine Bjorn (msg # 188):

"You drive a hard bargain, but I couldn't bear to see that destroyed. five hundred it is."

In reply to Dareos Madrigar (msg # 189):

"Dareos, if you could gather some associates whom you trust, I believe I have
something for you. I will need to cast a truthsayer on each of you, and that runs easier if
 you are all together. This client has significant funds invested, but some very particular
prerequisites for those it hires, and there have been problems in the past. The last group
hired had an insufficiency of arms to them, and I think I have someone who can fill that role
for your group, and this person I have already vetted. They will join you outside the city if
you qualify for the expedition."

Azrael walked up behind Dareos and put a hand on his shoulder. "Hey, somebody call for me?"

In reply to Azrael (msg # 192):

"I believe we did."

In reply to Aethelbert (msg # 190):

Christine smiles.

"Don't underestimate how much I hate that statue! Now if you don't mind, I will take my cash and look for my next job, far from such fetishs!"

Once she takes her cash, she will head out with Chris to look for some of her companion, and Ballarius, who was at lunch earlier.

"Great!" Azrael grinned and waited to hear about what was going on.

In reply to Camilla (msg # 191):

"I don't belive I've ever assembled a team.  This will be a new experience for me."

I turn to Azrael, smile, and offer my hand "I am Dareos Madrigar. Priest of Sethygg."

I turn back to Camilla, losing the smile, but still with a pleasant voice "What specifics can you give me so that I might recruit accurately?"

In reply to Dareos Madrigar (msg # 196):

"This expedition will involve a little travel, and
will probably require a few spellcasters and general purpise types, along with a fighter type or two.  There  are items to be retrieved, actiobs to be performed  and a set time limit."

In reply to Camilla (msg # 197):


"Well, I think I'll start with Christine.  She's pretty effective.  She also knows a few people that might be looking for work."

I turn to the man next to me.


"Azrael.  What is it that you do?"

"Me? Oh, a little of this, a little of that. I protect the living from the dead, and the dead from the living. That sort of thing."

In reply to Azrael (msg # 199):

Christine and her golem open the outer door...

In reply to Narrator (msg # 200):

Christine looks around for Bellarius...seeing Daneos, she approaches him.

"Have you seen Bellarius? He was talking about a job for me..."
This message was last edited by the player at 22:38, Wed 16 Mar 2016.

In reply to Christine Bjorn (msg # 201):

"Go right on in Honey. Camilla is ready for you now."

In reply to Bellarius (msg # 202):

Christine balks a little at the term, but says nothing and heads in to see Camilla and whoever is with her.

In reply to Christine Bjorn (msg # 203):

"Christine, Dareos, Azrael, we will begin in just a
moment... wait for it... now."
Haskell  breathlessly opens the door.

In reply to Camilla (msg # 204):

"I heard an expedition was forming, and I claim guildrank!"

In reply to Haskell the crafty (msg # 205):

"Haskell take a seat. There will be questions and Truthsaying magic. Do you, and each of the others consent to
this?"

"Sure." Azrael gestured with his off-hand. "I have nothing to hide."

In reply to Azrael (msg # 207):

"Nor do I."

"I guess assembling a team is easier than I thought.  Sethygg's will be done."

I smile broadly at the clearly divine method at which we were brought together.

"You may test me with your magic."

In reply to Dareos Madrigar (msg # 209):

Camilla casts the spell on each of you,and takes a deep
breath before beginning her questioning.
"Are any of you presently, or have you ever been,
excommunicated, of infernal origin, or had relations with an
infernal entity, or formed a pact with or recieved  power
Investiture from any such infernal entity? Are you now,
or have you ever been an indentured servant, agent, or ally of
the D'Ivore family? Please answer in the negativ, or we will
 not be able to proceed."
This message was last edited by the GM at 23:29, Fri 25 Mar 2016.

"No to all those questions."

In reply to Azrael (msg # 211):

"Certainly not, to the best of my knowledge."

In reply to Christine Bjorn (msg # 212):

"That would be a no for me. Who ate the D'Ivore?"

In reply to Haskell the crafty (msg # 213):


"Very good gentlemen   and Christine. I may now reveal to you
 that your prospective employer is, in fact the Church, in
particular, the bishop of Sonne.  He has vested interests in
a former monastery that is adjacent to lands claimed by the
D'Ivoire family. As that family is opposed to this mission,
Haskell, association with them would exclude involvement with this mission.
 The monks of the cloister and surrounding lands apparently
became debased and became involved with demonology, and
eventually the monastery was abandoned. Bishop Alaric would like
 for the area to become reconsecrated, or at least for
the areas of diminshed sanctity to be restored.  I have a
list of specific artifacts also to be recovered, and while it
 is preferred that wholesale damage to tbe grounds not be
performed, there are no specific instructions as to what is
to be done with anything else you may find there, save that a
 tithing of any gains be returned to the bishop's coffers.

  There may be some interference from the D'Ivoire family
and their agents.  A certain amount of supplies were be provided
 to the members of the previous expedition, including a donkey cart,
 holy water and a few healing potions, and you
are fully entitled to the use of those items should they be
found.  Clarification of what happened to that intrepid group
will earn you a bonus, and the specific pay for this is
entirely  dependent upon how many of the listed items are returned."
,"Did I mention that the monks were Trappists, and their
monastery a winery?

"You will be provided with a map and a gallon of holy water.
 Your maximum pay, based on return of all of the items on the
 listis $1200 in silver, in addition to what value you may
find elsewhere in the monastery.
 The items in question areas follows:
the Crozier of Saint Hilaire,
the Monstrance of Guillame, both of which are
Illustrated on this document,"
Camilla passes over a piece of parchment depicting
 an ornate shepherd's crook, and a worked metal sunburst with a glass center.
"Also to be recovered  are:
 a bound copy of The Lives of the Saints,
the illuminated Bible from the reliquary,
a silver cross set with rubies and containing a relic, (apparently proof against undead) and lastly,
 a set of silver bells that are part of an altar service.
Missing any of these items will diminish the reward, and a proper reconsecration of the chapel, sacristy and reliquary
shrine would increase the reward, although the value for that
 is not specified, and is open to some negotiation with
Biship Alaric."



This message was last edited by the GM at 23:32, Fri 25 Mar 2016.

"Demons, yikes. And undead. Uh, that's interesting." Azrael put his hands in his pockets. "Do we know anything about the previous expedition?"

In reply to Azrael (msg # 215):

"The previous expedition underwent some changes due
to two members, the bard Hallic and the swashbuckler
Theodoric having consorted carnally with Varilla, an agent of the D'Ivore family who was also spawn of an incubus. The members of the group that did go were Malga'mar, an ogrekin
wizard, Eli Daniels, a human priest, Konrad Mojoni, a fighting man, Francois Bonsoir, another human, uh swordsman, and Walter Goldman, a human torchbearer."

Azrael nodded. "Well. I am a licensed exorcist, though that's the limits of my clerical training... I don't think I'm qualified to consecrate anything. But just from the description it sounds like the demons are enslaving the dead and keeping them from their just slumber. I'm definitely interested in helping the church resolve this matter."

In reply to Azrael (msg # 217):

"Two questions. Is the $1200 per person, or in total?

Also, if Haskell is not coming, maybe we should invite that loadmouth orc Grend. He likes to boast how good he is, so a demon or two should be his thing..."

In reply to Christine Bjorn (msg # 218):

"I didn't say Haskell was excluded, he asked why the D'ivore were relevant. As it is, there is another person  I
have already vetted who is suitable for this expedition, and
 she is waiting outside. Her name is Jednesa, and I advocate
speaking a little slowly to her... she is not tremendously
bright but she is  quite effective."

In reply to Camilla (msg # 219):

"Ah, ok then. Look forward to meeting her. Anything special about her? Sponsors choice?"

In reply to Christine Bjorn (msg # 220):

"Actually, the guild was paid to find her something
  to do out of town, so I took the time to clear her for
assorted contingencies, and this came up. Thankfully she was
 Clear to go."

In reply to Camilla (msg # 221):

"Uh, Ok. Why does somebody need her out of town? Should we expect assassins or something?"

At the time it was asked;
"No to all questions, with considerations to my extended family's well known dalliances with such things.  As a devoted Priest of Sethygg, I abhor such things."

In relation to the descriptions of the job;

"I will commit my utmost to the vanquishing of all unholy creatures and recovering the artifacts listed.  However, I can't see the reason in consecrating the church to anyone other than Sethygg."
This message had punctuation tweaked by the player at 09:24, Sat 19 Mar 2016.

In reply to Dareos Madrigar (msg # 223):

"Undoing the desecration  by pouring holy water and
removing the evil entities would count in this case.
 The pricing for return of the items comes with a caveat;
5rying to sell them to anyone but the church results in
excommunication by the Church. You are given license to loot
everything else in the monestery and everything in possession
of the former expedition  including $200 they were given
along with the donkey cart."
This message was last edited by the GM at 14:23, Sat 19 Mar 2016.

"Which church are we doing this for?" Azrael asked. "There are a lot of churches in Northport, aren't there?"
This message was last edited by the GM at 18:13, Sun 20 Mar 2016.

In reply to Azrael (msg # 225):

"There are, Azrael. Camilla, I still have not heard about why the someone wanted Jednesa out of town, nor have we ascertained if the payment was $1200 per person, or shared between all of us..."

In reply to Christine Bjorn (msg # 226):

Camilla rolls her eyes and sighs.
"Due to time pressure I am authorized to change the
deal; the $1200 comes for the retreival of 6 items at $200
each, to be divided amongst the survivors in addition to any
items not specifically named, down to the nails such items
are nailed down with, including the contents of the winery's
cellars, and because we have to get this accomplished, an additional   flat fee of $750."

"So which church is this for, and would they find Dareos consecrating this place to his own god acceptable?"
This message was last edited by the GM at 18:14, Sun 20 Mar 2016.

In reply to Azrael (msg # 228):

"The abbey and its grounds are dedicated to the One Trifold God that our local cathedral is also dedicated to.
Alaric, the Bishop of Sonne is not looking for the area to be fully reconsecrated, but only exorcised and annointed with holy water to reduce the infernal taint to a degree that
would allow an easier reconsecration."

Azrael shrugged. "Sure, I can perform a secular exorcism and splash some water around, no problem. Count me in."
This message was last edited by the GM at 18:16, Sun 20 Mar 2016.

In reply to Azrael (msg # 230):

"Right. And the reason the new member was wanted out of Northport was?"

In reply to Christine Bjorn (msg # 231):

Camilla shrugs.
"Jednesa is an ogress, and uncivilized when compared
to guildmembers like'Elga the Henourmous, who is a known
Pacifist, and Gorgath, hero of the Deepguard, both of whom
practice some degree of modesty with their attire.
She is quite affable for an ogre, and has no exclusionary
associations."

"I'm not prejudiced," Azrael said. "The terms are acceptable for me. Let's get going on this."
This message was last edited by the GM at 15:51, Wed 23 Mar 2016.

In reply to Azrael (msg # 233):

"Understood then. I can accept that too."

"I agree on all accounts."

In reply to Dareos Madrigar (msg # 235):

"Here are your supplies, please head out in the next few hours, there is a bit of time pressure."

[Private to Azrael: I have been using Royarred for you since you switched from brown; Dareos and Camilla already use purple, Christine uses blue and Haskell uses brown. I'll have a word with Jednesa about using green or something]

Azrael took a look at the map, to see what kind of journey they had ahead of them. "How far away is the monastery?"

In reply to Azrael (msg # 237):

It looks to be three to four days away to the south east.

"Would it be possible to get a small advance?" Azrael asked. "I'm a bit low on funds, and not really equipped for a trip away from town. Three silver should cover it, if it's not a problem?"

In reply to Azrael (msg # 239):

"I am authorized to advance you 5 silver - $100."

In reply to Camilla (msg # 240):

"I can create food...so lets not overburden ourselves."

"And if something kills you? I'd rather not starve."

In reply to Azrael (msg # 242)

"Don't let anything kill me!" She says with a grin.

"What about this guy?" Azrael asks Camilla, gesturing towards Chris. "Is he with us? He didn't say anything about being excommunicated or infernal, or connected to the D'Ivore family."

In reply to Azrael (msg # 244):

"Chris is a construct and obeys Christine in all
things. Also he is not anatomically accurate, so he could not
consort with an infernal even if he was ordered to."

"Gotcha."

I turn to my new companions;
"Once I retrieve my travel gear from downstairs, I'll be ready to go.

And back to the employer;
Since it's time sensitive, shouldn't we leave immediately?

In reply to Dareos Madrigar (msg # 247):

Proceed to the second expedition  to the abandoned   abbey

In reply to Narrator (msg # 248):

It is late evening when Huey, Oly and Ardenas arrive.
 McCain  raises an eyevbrow at the ten foot pole.

Jus' da hold da lamp up ... doo big fer a weapon.


At the back table, Oly carefully removes the trophy from the bag, keeping it low... hope idz iz id.

"Stripe on the muzzle, and it should be missing the left canine tooth.  We might not want to look it over in here, though; who knows if one of Murfash's teammates might be a Guild member."

Dad iz why I hold id low...

"Okay.  Huey, huddle close and let's look."

Ardenas looks at the skull to verify the red stripe and correct missing canine.
This message was last edited by the player at 22:17, Mon 18 Apr 2016.

In reply to Ardenas Barehand (msg # 253):

The lighting was bad in the televadnica, and Oly's night vision is poor...but he got he right trophy skull!

"Good job, Oly!  Do you think Pallido is a night owl or an early bird?  Should we head down to hobgoblin town now, or get a good night's sleep first?"

"Let's get this done with, when you've recovered some. The orcs and goblins will fight overnight. Especially now."

Agree, we need a pazz to gid in you zay...

"The only pass I recall being needed is someone with more Guild rank than I have, to get past the gate between Zeelzeel Shadowspear's place of worship and the entrance to hobgoblin town.  Oly, you were specifically named as one who has sufficient rank to pass when I was warned I wouldn't be able to pass on my own if I returned alone."

Led'z go den...

Oly puts the skull back in his bag carefully so it isn't obvious and is unlikely to get damaged.

"Let's go, indeed.  Do you know the way to Zeelzeel's meeting place?  I've been there only once; we might need to spend a copper or two to hire a guide.  Any kobold around here is likely to know the way."

Da Map maker iz here? Hez zdill on da pay, righd?

"Yes, he should be, through tomorrow as I recall.

"Kasmir?  Are you around?  Clair?  Renolan?"

In reply to Ardenas Barehand (msg # 262):

"I'm here. Kasmir is at the mosque, and Clair is over at her sister's  place.  You want to do something ton¡ght or in
the morning? Either way we are on retainer through tommorrow ."
This message was last edited by the player at 12:54, Wed 20 Apr 2016.

Huey looks briefly disappointed at Renolan's answer, then offers, "I was there, too, Ardenas."

You know da way? I dink I remember zum of id...

"Between you, me, Huey, and Renolan we can probably find our way back to the Guild gate, and it was pretty simple from there -- the two big hobgoblin guards at their gate are a good landmark."

Den ledz go

Oly slides of the bench and lets the others rise...

In reply to Oly (msg # 267):

"Are you sure about that? I could just go pick up Kasmir
They should be wrapping up evening prayers by now, and it is
 paid for."

How long?

"I'm in favor of picking up Kasmir.  It won't take long -- the mosque is near the cathedral, isn't it?"

Fine   Oly sits back down and gets some food.

"Ok by me."

In reply to Huey Thumper (msg # 272):

About twenty minutes later Renolan shows back up with a very relaxed looking Kasmir.

We need do go back do da Goblinz... can you lead uz?

In reply to Oly (msg # 274):

"Of course. You located the thing the hobgoblin  desires."

Hope Zo...

"Yes, we believe so.  The description matches the actual item, so we need to return to Pallido."

In reply to Ardenas Barehand (msg # 277):

"Then let us proceed."

Righd behind you

"Good." Huey pushes away from the table and follows.

"Lead on."

In reply to Ardenas Barehand (msg # 281):

You head down into the undercroft, and The head of the halberdiers at the gate opens the
portcullis for Oly. Your path lit by Renolan, and the path interpreted by Kasmir, you soon
 find your way to the zigzag marked area of the hobgoblins.
This message was last edited by the player at 13:50, Tue 26 Apr 2016.

Addressing the two hobgoblin guards:

"I've returned, with some of the same friends and some different ones, to see Pallido again.  Would either of you know where we might find him?"

Bumping this for our busy Narrator

In reply to Huey Thumper (msg # 284):

"Pallido, huh. You were with Zeelzeel last time?"

"Yup."

"I was.  This time, I'm with Oly and Huey, as well as Kasmir and Renolan who were here last time.  If you need to check with Pallido, tell him I have what he asked for."

In reply to Ardenas Barehand (msg # 287):

"Really? What's that?"
This message was last edited by the player at 17:28, Sun 08 May 2016.

"He requested that I prove my position relative to Murfash by bringing him a trophy -- one that I presume has personal significance for either Murfash or Pallido."

In reply to Ardenas Barehand (msg # 289):

"No shit! Let me take you to him."
The hobgoblin leads you further in, and down several levels
Before knocking three times on a heavy door.
"Pallido! Pallido! Pallido! It is Nla Ese, with humans and others."
This message was last edited by the player at 17:29, Sun 08 May 2016.

Ardenas waits patiently outside the door the guard has brought us to, listening for any response from within.

In reply to Ardenas Barehand (msg # 291):

The door opens a crack.
"Nla Ese, I see you. They have brought it?"

Yez, we have broughd id.

In reply to Oly (msg # 293):

"Show me, show me!" his eyes are wide, his hands sweaty.

As Oly holds the bag, Ardenas reaches in and draws out the skull, holding it out to Pallido.

"This is the one you requested, is it not?"

In reply to Ardenas Barehand (msg # 295):

His hands shake, and his mouth opens and closes.
"Yes, yes, yes. The trophy Murfash's team was rewarded
with after he cut me down. Mayhis loss be as grevious as was mine."

Iazk dad you guard id... zo ifn' id becomez zumpin do zdard a war, we have opdionz.

"I'm not even sure how long it'll be before they notice it's gone.  But: Pallido, you promised to take us to see Glosso and Hramina if I brought you this trophy."

In reply to Ardenas Barehand (msg # 298):

The hobgoblin retreats with his prize, and returns a moment later, carefully locking his door with two keys. He checks each lock three times, and then leads you down to lower
level.  You pass the depth at which you were at the top of the arena, and cross a long corridor to a switchback stair
and down two more levels. The ceiling is lower here, and the air a little close with the smell of lye.  In a side passage,
 you see several hobgoblins prodding seething vats with long
poles.

"Wow, that's strong.  Making soap?"

In reply to Ardenas Barehand (msg # 300):

"Naw. Rope."

"I had no idea lye was used in rope making."

In reply to Ardenas Barehand (msg # 302):

"For these plant fibers it is. Softens them for braiding, then is stiffens them up, does a number on the
weaver's hands."


Ooc not sure if it would be, sounded good though
This message was last edited by the player at 18:59, Mon 16 May 2016.

In reply to Hobgoblin (msg # 303):

"The weavers can't even wear gloves, can they?"

OOC: Sounds reasonable to me.

In reply to Ardenas Barehand (msg # 304):

"They do but it seeps through, eats the glove, and
You only get so many."

In reply to Hobgoblin (msg # 305):

The aging Qwik waves you onward, and eventually  you come to a locked door.

Ardenas stops and looks around to be sure Oly, Huey, Renolan and Kasmir have kept up.

Righd Here brudder

In reply to Oly (msg # 308):

The half ogre whispers to his axe.
"Time for door opening, Beard"
This message was last edited by the player at 22:34, Thu 19 May 2016.

In reply to Huey Thumper (msg # 309):

Pallido knocks three times in rapid succession. A moment
later there are three answering knocks, and the hobgoblin
takes a key from around his neck and turns the key in the
lock. He knocks again, and there is the sound of a bar being
 lifted from within.  The door creaks open...

With an effort, Ardenas holds himself at ease, rather than dropping into ready stance.  These are supposed to be the people we've come to see.

In reply to Ardenas Barehand (msg # 311):

Warily, a good looking young goblin gripping a long knife
peers through  the partly opened door. Behind him is a very attractive  young Urhaqi woman.

"You must be Glosso, and this Hramina.  You're a hard couple to find, which is probably why you're still alive.

"We're here to help, if we can, both you two and your people, who seem on the verge of war."

In reply to Ardenas Barehand (msg # 313):

"How can you help us?"

"That has been the question ever since we learned of your situation, and the more so with every bit of additional information we've gained.

"Murfash and his team, and by now probably other juggers, are destroying goblin property, trying to find the two of you; I don't know which of you they seek to kill, of if it's both.  I don't know Urhaqi culture well enough to know how we might satisfy their honor short of bringing them your heads -- which we will not do -- and the only source of information we've had was an unarmed fighter who was more interested in telling us how jugger weakens the Urhaqi than in trying to determine how to satisfy Murfash."

In reply to Ardenas Barehand (msg # 315):

"Murfash wants me dead, he was pretty clear on that.
He has got to listen to sombody... he listens to his coach
Khrosh, I think. But there has to be someone higher on the chain who they would listen to. I want to see Hramina's
parents, but there is no way to I can go see them and get
there alive"

In reply to Glosso (msg # 316):

"I miss my folks, but they would ground me if I wrnt home. I love Glosso, and he loves me and that should be enough. I never loved Murfash, he seemed to think we were
together, and we never were."

"I recall Clair -- Strong Clair, I think she knows your family, Hramina -- mentioning something about the leadership who could influence Khrosh, who in turn can influence Murfash.  I'm sure it would solve the main problem if Khrosh told Murfash, as his coach or as his sensei (whatever the Urhaqi word is for that), to lay off all of this -- but the problem is, Khrosh doesn't want to hear anything from someone like me.  If I could beat him at sparring or in a real fight, it might be different, but I haven't the experience to pull that off.

"So, what we really need, I think, is to know who pulls Khrosh's strings.  I don't think Clair knew, and I'm sure I don't.  Do you have any idea, Hramina?"

In reply to Ardenas Barehand (msg # 318):

"Ganosh and Huralda are the tribal elders. Khrosh would have to listen to them."

Iz dere anyding dad mighd perzuade dem do lizden ... Money, jewels, zumbody gone?

In reply to Oly (msg # 320):

"I never thought much about what they want. What my friends want, what my parents want, but not the elders."

We zorda know whad a lod o' de Uruki wand. We juz' don' agree wid dem.

"Well, that's a start.  What do your parents want?"

In reply to Ardenas Barehand (msg # 323):

"Thet want me to comehome, get married to a nice
Urhaqui boy  and maybe get a job. I want Glosso, although a
job wouldn't be bad."
This message was lightly edited by the player at 18:02, Sun 22 May 2016.

In reply to Hramina (msg # 324):

"I want you too, baby. Ineed to do sonething.
Everything is coming down around our ears and we are helpless locked away here."

"Glosso, even if you could beat Murfash in a fight, I doubt that would resolve things at this point.  We need to find a way to convince Ganosh and Huralda that their juggers destroying goblin property -- or indeed seeking revenge on you by any means -- is bad for the tribe.  If there were something your people have that would ensure your victory if this came to open conflict, that might do it, but things like that tend to get used; we'd know about it by now, I think.

"Hramina, would I be right in thinking your parents want what they think is best for you, as most parents of any tribe or race do?  If so, I doubt it would be a stretch to think Ganosh and Huralda want what's best for their tribe, though it's very possible we and they wouldn't agree on what that might be.  We might be able to get at what they think is the case, though.  What are Urhaqui children taught will be important when they grow up?"

In reply to Ardenas Barehand (msg # 326):

"Family, strength, unity. Jugga teaches the boys teamwork and fighting style, cheering keeps them feeling important in their work. Every job has worth, if it is worth
doing."

In reply to Hramina (msg # 327):

"So family, strength, and unity, enlarged for the whole tribe, are most likely what we need to appeal to when we talk to Ganosh and Huralda.  Not much different from human leaders, though their approach isn't quite the same.  It'll be community in place of family, most likely, because they're community leaders rather than just family heads.

"I think we'll need to convince them that you two being together, or more genereally Urhaqui and goblins mingling, adds to those values.  We need to show them how Urhaqui bonding with goblins strengthens Urhaqui and bolsters the tribe.  To me, it doesn't seem difficult; it's a case of adding one set of strengths to the other.  Urhaqui may see goblins as small and weak, but goblins comprise a lot of the artisans in the city -- isn't that right, Glosso?  So bringing the two communities closer together lets Urhaqui protect goblins, and goblins enrich Urhaqui -- if we can get the Urhaqui juggers to stop tearing up the goblin shops."

In reply to Ardenas Barehand (msg # 328):

"See the goblin elders too, Fezokeel and Raquizell"

Ardenas gets a thoughtful look.

"What kind of threats or trickery would it take, do you think, to get the goblin elders and the Urhaqui elders together, so we could let them -- or help them -- convince each other?"