The company includes:
Kirpich - Earth Cleric
Sylvanus - Wood Elf Archer
Aethul - Shevnian Ranger
Balir - Dwarf Warrior
Dionysus - Swordsfaun
Marlena - human wizard
Snorri - Human warrior

Time to kit out and prep!

In reply to Narrator (msg # 1):

"Ready to go here. Equal shares for all, including goods taken or used? Only loot used by all, a general consensus of 4 or more needed to be considered used by all, not included as loot to be distributed?"

"Ready to go, Kirpich.  Me axe is sharp, and ve should have much success."

As he waits for the rest of the group to be ready, Balir will sharpen his axe with his whetstone.

...sheeeeet....sheeeeet...

In reply to Kirpich Rockson (msg # 2):

I am unclear as to your terms, everything is in the groups pot until we distribute it evenly at the end. If we must use something found, it still belongs to the group. If using it causes it to lose value or disappear, then a majority will decide if we use it.

Balir listens to the discussion, adds "I accept that arrangement.  I vould be happy to help carry ze gold until ve can divide it up"

In reply to Syvanus (msg # 4):

"That is pretty much it."

Very well, then I agree... does anyone have a different view?

"Sounds like an excellent arrangement."(Bouncing excitedly from one hoof to the other.)

"I shall gather up my gear. Meet back here with our gear? How far is this town?"

In reply to Dionysus Dispatha (msg # 8):

"Yes, lets meet back here in an hour...that enough time for all? Oren, do we need a map?"

Let's allow a bit more for those going to purchase things...

"As I am new to this town, I have not yet arranged for formal lodgings.  All of my items are vith me.  If ve have items that need to be purchased, I can accompany you.  However, iv you are going to your lodging to gather your equipment, I vill vait in a local tavern until you are ready to proceed."

Best to wait here, safer and easier to find everyone.

In reply to Syvanus (msg # 12):

"I have just gotten back from a trip and finished shopping, so I am good to go...we can wait here together, Balir."

I have a small task to accomplish, with a bit of luck, it should take no longer than an hour ...



[Private to GM: Hewill take two small vials and try to get Father Robard to fill each with holy water.]

In reply to Aethul (msg # 14):

"I can get you a rough local map for $50, I might be imprecise about that castle though.  I can heartily recommend some redundancy in terms of gear; two mules minimum, maybe even a small donkey or hand cart. And bring some food, unless you want another angry plant to fight with."






A two-wheeled handcart with spoked and iron-banded wheels. Holds 500 lbs. Can be pulled by hand or yoked to someone. Divide effective weight of load by 10. $100, 60 lbs.

[Private to Aethul: Father Robard will do that for a silver ($20) and throw in a pamphlet of prayers]
This message was last edited by the GM at 00:27, Fri 14 Dec 2018.

A small mule can pull the hand cart easily and is cheaper than two animals of any sort.




[Private to GM: Aethul will give him the Silver piece.]

"Right then, back here in an hour. I have a weeks worth of travel rations, hopefully that will be sufficient for now."

"Do ve need a veek, you think?  I only have 4 days vith me.  Vhat do you think ve should bring?"

In reply to Balir Ironhide (msg # 18):

"Last time we went out, the mule got crushed by an earth giant, and we lost our food and many supplies. I am bringing  extra clotnes, and some spare gear, along with group basics and two weeks food."

"Giants?  I vill be happy to meet one.  Let me collect a few more rations and come back."

OOC Balir will go collect a week of normal rations and then return.  Backpack should have enough room for them.

In reply to Balir Ironhide (msg # 20):

My friend Chunky could pull a handcart, but I do not have any change left over.

[Private to GM: I noted that the items from the last mission were not added. I believe Kirpich took the following: Total loot, $5,000 worth

A possible magical ring that he wanted identified.

Horse, saddle, tack and saddlebags, $475 worth.
$4520+2180 cash, since he let Snorri take the axe. I don't believe this was spent, correct?

Likewise, were the 6 cp spent? I could not find...]

I have sufficient for the Handcart if Chunky can do that.

In reply to Syvanus (msg # 22):

"no pull."
[Private to Kirpich Rockson: elemental companions don't haul (golems do). You should have had all that loot, minus about $40 for upkeep.]

So we are back to how we pull the Cart...  a small mule is $1000.

In reply to Syvanus (msg # 24):

"I have plenty of cash for mules and carts, but we need someone with animal handling or teamster skill to control them, especially if combat starts. Given it costs $5365 which I can cover out of my own pocket, and these are pretty much exclusively group items, should I get paid back at the end before loot is distributed? After all, I can provide my own food and water. It should be noted there are no fodder for the mules."

Suggested shopping list:

Large Mule                           $2,000
Move 9 (6)
BL 96 lbs
Weight: 181#
Encumbrance: Light

    Horseshoes.  TL3.                    $50       4#.  Gives horse +2 HT rolls for stamina on long rides.
    Saddlebags.  TL1.                    $100      3#   Holds 40#
    Halter       TL1.                    $5,       1.5# Gives +1 Animal Handling for Tying up/Leading a horse, replaces bridle

    20 gal waterproof barrels x 2,       $220      22# (160# Water 32#/160)
    Rations x60,                         $160      30#

Total: Mule 1: $2535


Large Mule                           $2,000         BL 96 lbs
Move 9 (7)
BL 96 lbs
Weight: 151
Encumbrance: Light

    Horseshoes.  TL3.                    $50       4#.  Gives horse +2 HT rolls for stamina on long rides.
    Saddlebags.  TL1.                    $100      3#   Holds 40#
    Halter       TL1.                    $5,       1.5# Gives +1 Animal Handling for Tying up/Leading a horse, replaces bridle

    Legionnaires Tent,                   $225,     45#
    Sleeping Mats x2,                    $40,      8#
    Sleeping Fur, x2,                    $100,     16#
    Crash Kit,                           $200,     10#
    Rope, 3/8, 200 yards,                $100,     30#
    First Aid Kit                      From Chunky 2#
    Bandages                           From Chunky 2#
    Group Basics                       From Chunky 20#
    Cord 50', holds 90 lbs               $5        2.5#
    Whetstone                            $5        1#

Total Mule 2: $2830

Very generous of you but unnecessarily costly my friend. We can buy the cart for $100 and a small mule to pull it for $1,000, it should easily handle the water, although one barrel plus our individual  Water skins should be plenty. The rest can easily be carried along with some oats... fodder is not needed as the animal can graze the plentiful grass.  We should buy the mule with shoes and a halter, since an unused mule is likely untrained.

And I can lead the mule and control it I think... shouldn't be too difficult.

In reply to Aethul (msg # 27):

"The problem with wagons is mud, and there was talk of a swamp, hence two mules is an advantage..."

But do we have to traverse the swamp to get there? I didn't get that understanding...perhaps we should ask Oren ... let me see if he is still around.

In reply to Syvanus (msg # 29):

"If not, a pair of oxen and an Oxcart for $3340, plus outfitting, would be better, as it can carry 1200 lbs, but it needs the Teamster skill to drive it. A wagon with 2 draft horses would cost $4790, including horseshoes and halters for both, and be only able to carry 1000 lbs. A war wagon would be a substantial improvement, but needing 4 draft horses would bring the cost to $10,000, beyond even my budget. However, with a capacity of 4,000 lbs and protection for archers, it may be worthwhile. But once again, we need a good teamster to drive it! A large mule can carry up to 288 lbs before it is heavily encumbered."

"I hav just arrived, and have not not earned any vage yet.  I do not have that money to spend, but I could contribute some.  If ve all agree, and only then."

Why do we need so much ? we aren't carrying anything  that heavy and i can't imagine finding that much.

Syvanus heads off to ask Oren about the swamp.

In reply to Kirpich Rockson (msg # 30):

A sturdy mule and a handcart that could be yoked to it (and carry 500 lbs) might do.

In reply to Narrator (msg # 33):

Are there swamps that need to be traversed, or is it all along roads?

In reply to Syvanus (msg # 32):

The fields that are frequently flooded for the rice crop have raised roads between them, but there was a terrible stirge problem. I remember a group of pallid men that would hire out themselves to stand in the paddies to be bitten, because all but the largest strix would die after biting them.  Someone told me that they had always been in the area, but had long been persecuted until that became the crop. I hear they used to plant faro before that, but there had been a blight, followed by floods and then there was an influx of peasants from Sahud who introduced their style of farming. Veroigne is a major source of rice, I hated loading it because it weighed more than potatoes or flax seed."

In reply to Oren (msg # 35):

"Stirges. Great. So the roads are ok for wagons then?"

my family travelled by ox cart. That fit just fine on the roads, provided they were maintained. It has been a long time since I was down that way, though."

In reply to Oren (msg # 37):

"So they may not be passable..."

In reply to Kirpich Rockson (msg # 38):

"A wagon sounds like the go, but I do need to confirm I have someone with the Teamster skill, not just animal handling.

On second thoughts, I already have a saddle horse. That should be enough...the saddle horse will not be troubled so much by an impassable road if something has changed."
This message was last edited by the player at 03:48, Thu 27 Dec 2018.

In reply to Kirpich Rockson (msg # 39):

If you are careful about how the horse and handcart (if getting one) are loaded, you can get moving before noon.

Present are: Marlena, Snorri, Kirpich and chunky, Syvanus, Aethul and Balir, and Dionysus.

In reply to Narrator (msg # 40):

Horse is loaded as per character sheet. Kirpich is ready to go when that is done...

Syvanus sees to getting the hand cart and a mule that has done wagon hauling before. He put's his heavy stuff on the cart and acquires sufficient rations to last him 3 weeks.  He then meets the group back at the Guild and sees to their gear being loaded carefully as well.

Aethul takes charge of the mule and cart... he rubs the animal down and quickly establishes a rapport with it.

In reply to Kirpich Rockson (msg # 41):

"Just so that you know, I have group basics, a Legionnaires tent for 12, 60 rations and a cask of water. In addition, with Groms blessing, I can keep refilling the 6 gal water cask and can create food. Please pack accordingly, and when you are done, we can be off."

The tent will be welcome should it rain, otherwise it may be simpler to just sleep under the stars and certainly less conspicuous.

In reply to Aethul (msg # 45):

With the mule, cart, horse and gear you head out through the south west gate that exits from the temple district. Kirpich notes that a number of small stalls have opeed near the gate where vendors, some of them Sahudese or other westerners are selling small brass idols and brightly colored parchment wall hangings and insence,along with the more typical dove and prayer bead sellers.  An acolyte of Grom sells devotional images minimally carved from twisted roots and roughly shapped terra cotta.

In reply to Narrator (msg # 46):

Kirpich will speak to the Acolyte to encourage him.

In reply to Kirpich Rockson (msg # 47):

The acolyte, a dwarf, appreciates the encouragement.

Snorri, a good hand with the last mule, leads the new one. His newer, heavier armor looks good on him.
This message was last edited by the player at 20:44, Sun 30 Dec 2018.

Dionysus loads his backpack onto the cart keeping his swords, potion belt, and bandoleer; all  worn over his armor.

"A fine day to be on the road indeed" comments Dionysus as he prances along the road.

Aye, seems a good day




[Private to GM:  14:35, Today: Aethul rolled 5 using 3d6.  Weather  Sense.   Do0es he sense any changes coming?]

Balir walks along quietly beside the hand cart.  Northport was a new town to him, so he wanted to pay attention to the interactions of the people.  It was important for him to learn how the humans did things.  He didn't understand it well after spending much of his time around Dwarves.

As he walked along, Balir surely drew a few looks from the people on the road.  He was tall and wide for a Dwarf, and his heavy mail armor shined in the sun.  While his backpack was neatly stowed on the hand cart, his weapons were not.  On his left arm hung a large oaken shield covered with Dwarven runes.  On the right side of his belt hung a shining axe, which was covered with more runes - Earthwarden, The Dwarven Defender.

As they passed the acolyte of Grom, Balir took a moment to speak to him in Dwarvish.
"Hold your chin up, acolyte.  Grom shines upon thee."


OOC Others will notice that Balir moves quite well for a Dwarf, especially considering the tremendous load he's carrying.  He's not fast, but he can keep up with an average human.
This message was last edited by the player at 20:35, Wed 02 Jan 2019.

In reply to Balir Ironhide (msg # 51):

"And on Thee. Fare thee well, and watch for the slyness of the elves" replies the Acolyte in Dwarven. He looks appreciatively at the small elemental accompanying  Kirpich.


Aethul senses clear skies ahead, at least for a few days.

Once out the gate, you can see the fields of grain separated into patchwork by hedgerows and low stone walls. The road itself is an old iter, with six sided paving stones. This close to the city the brush is cleared for a few yards to either side, and no weeds grow between the stones.  The road continues out of sight in a distant stand of trees to the far south,  and to the southwest you can see more fields, and the begining of a large forrest.
To the west are rolling hills, much of which have been made into a vineyard. To the northwest, the hills rise into a mountain range that is visible on the western horizon as well.

As the group hikes along, Balir finds he needs some conversation to pass the time.  By itself, walking was boring.  He was excited for the job, and interested in learning about the people traveling with him.  At first he takes an interest in Dionysus, since he isn't too experienced with Fauns.  If he'll tolerate some questions, Balir will try to get to know him some.

"So, vere are you from?  I don't know anything about ze Fauns."
"How did you come to live among ze humans?"
"Do they treat you equally, or do you experience a subtle inequality?"
"How have your interactions been with ze local elf population?"
"How about ze dwarves?"

If things don't go well, he'll move on to ask Kirpich a bunch of similar questions, and so on.

OOC Not sure he'll talk too much to Sylvanus besides the required pleasantries.  Elves are not to be trusted, too much unfortunate history.  :)


[Private to Dionysus Dispatha; Narrator: Balir has Chummy, and so trying to play it out some.  Seems like a good time both for the player (work hasn't picked up yet) and the character (long boring walk). ]
This message was last edited by the player at 20:03, Thu 03 Jan 2019.

In reply to Balir Ironhide (msg # 53):

The road carries on for quite a bit....
[Private to Dionysus Dispatha: there are a number of passages to Fey, Hypathia's Hoofprints has such a gate, and there are a number in the wild places. Hellas, to the far south and east, has a number as well, and it is conceivable that you have travelled from that far, but there may be one on temple hill here in Northport, and some fairly near.]

In reply to Narrator (msg # 54):

Kirpich is friendly enough. When it comes time for him to answer questions, as it surely will, he describes how he was born to a simple farmer, but when a drought came, his parents moved to a dwarven monastery of Grom. Well, his mother did, his father was killed by a necromancer's minions defending them on the road.

Raised in the monastery, he became a priest of Grom, and gladly accepted a request to take the message of Grom to the residents of Northport when the opportunity came, as his being human was considered more accepted by the largely human population of the city.

He also describes how Sylvanus and the others who were with him defeated a lich, and destroyed a rod of elemental control on the last mission.

In reply to Kirpich Rockson (msg # 55):

: That were a hard fight.  The damned thing had barrow wights that we could not harm, an there were these worm things that stank of death..."

In reply to Snorri Roslovich (msg # 56):

"Well, they could be harmed, but only by magic weapons. The killed an elemental...they deserved their destruction well."

"Sounds like a valiant battle. Magic weapons? Oh, enchanted blades. I would like to acquire such someday. Not that Vivamus and Colada are not fine blades."

<teasing>"Ah Balir such a talkative fellow you are. Are not dwarves serious folk of few words? So say the humans, though in truth you are the first dwarf I have had converse with."

"Such a different upbringing we have. I come from the Forest, Kirpich from a farm, and you from a stone hall."

Balir nods seriously in response to Dionysus' comments.
"Yes, it iz true.  I know not ze ways of Men.  But it waz time for me to leave, and make my own way.  I have much interest in ze world outside my underground home.  Zat is why I asked.  We are very different, and ze differences are interesting.  Ve are...building bridges, yes?"
This message was last edited by the player at 16:07, Wed 09 Jan 2019.

In reply to Balir Ironhide (msg # 59):

"And leaving a trail of dead bandits and necromancers behind us as we do."

"Different yes but I too wished, how did you put it, 'make my own way and have much interest in ze world'".

In reply to Dionysus Dispatha (msg # 61):

The road ahead stretches on, and ahead you see a number of robed persons, a few with staves, walking toward the city from up the road.

In reply to Narrator (msg # 62):

"Robes. What are they hiding, if anything? Careful now..." Kirpich says as they approach.

As they get closer (ie 20-30 yards away), he calls out

"Greetings fellow travelers. Where are we heading today?"
This message was last edited by the player at 02:31, Wed 09 Jan 2019.

Balir found it odd for Kirpich to call out to the travelers ahead of them on the road.  They didn't seem to be dangerous that he saw, but he wasn't well versed on the ways of humans either.  It was simply a different world, which was the whole point of him being here in the first place.  He couldn't relate to the other races (even the Elves...) if he didn't spend time among them.  Eventually he would need to navigate social situations like this.

Since Kirpich had already spoken with the strangers, Balir decided to follow his lead.  He subtly checked on his axe and 2 throwing axes, and took his shield off of his back where he was carrying it.  While he didn't expect any trouble, he wanted to be ready just in case the humans were hostile.

As he prepared his shield, Balir had a small chuckle to himself at how different things were for the humans.  If the traveling party had been Dwarves, the whole group would probably be sharing an ale or mead by now.

In reply to Balir Ironhide (msg # 64):

The dozen or so persons in the group of pilgrims pause. One in front lower his hood.
"Hail fellow travelers. Is this the road to Northport? We seek to vsit a shrine there."
This message was last edited by the player at 16:08, Tue 15 Jan 2019.

In reply to cultist (msg # 65):

"It is indeed. Which shrine do you intend to visit there? Which gods should I thank for our meeting?"

Balir stands quietly next to Kirpich and listens.  He wants to learn as much as he can about the human culture, so he pays attention but says nothing.  It was nice to take a break from their long walk.  Balir could handle the load just fine, but his armor and shield got heavy after a hike.  It was nice to plant the point of his tower shield on the ground so he didn't have to carry it for a minute.  Absently, he rubs his braided beard with his right hand, since his left is holding his shield.

Syvanus thinks something is odd, he looks closely at their dress.



[Private to GM: 19:38, Today: Syvanus rolled 13 using 3d6.  Perception. Just made it ]

In reply to Kirpich Rockson (msg # 66):

"Vejovis, protector of the unjustly persecuted, master of volcanoes, marshes and healing."

He displays a carved and painted wooden amulet, depicting a laurel crowned youth holding arrows and leading a goat.




OCC: make a theology roll, at -2
This message was last edited by the player at 16:14, Tue 15 Jan 2019.

In reply to cultist (msg # 69):

Kirpich considers his response...

[Private to GM: Rolled 3 under Theology -2...]

Balir would expect to know something about this cult, given the nature of dwarves and their affinity of mountains.  It's not something he has heard recently, however, so he ponders for a moment, absently stroking his beard as he does so.

[Private to GM: Balir might pass this with a lucky roll.  The default is IQ-6 (thought it was IQ-4...), which he missed by one.  Given Dwarves inhabit mountain ranges, he may get a bonus to the roll.  I can't say.
15:59, Today: Secret Roll: Balir Ironhide rolled 6 using 3d6.  Theology default - likely a 7.]

In reply to Balir Ironhide (msg # 71):

Worship of Vejovis is uncommon, but the rather small shrine is not far from the temple of Grome. While Grome's place of worship is a rocky outcroping with a ring of oak trees and flint menhirs, Vejovis shrine is built of black basalt, which is not native to this area, and often surrounded by goats. It has some underground rooms, and is a place of refuge for the persecuted.

It takes Balir a few minutes to remember where he had heard the name Vejovis before, but it finally comes to him.

"Don't you have a shrine of basalt not far from the Temple of Grome?  I recall hearing of one.  Do you hail from there, or from another shrine?

Visiting a shrine here in Northport would seem to put you out of your element.  Is there even a shrine to Vejovis in Northport?"

While the movements of religious sects was fairly alien to Balir, it seems odd that a sect of this nature might have a shrine in a city this large.

In reply to Balir Ironhide (msg # 73):

Those shrines are on temple hill in Northport. Worship of Vejovis is more commonly found far to the southeast, near the sea.

In reply to Narrator (msg # 74):

What does irpich know of the god and his worshippers?

In reply to Kirpich Rockson (msg # 75):

There are often fugitives and refugees amog the worshipers, and they all seem interested in justice. They often show up at trials and make noise about innocent people being charged, even paying for compell truth to be cast, and are known to sacrifice goats by burial.

In reply to Narrator (msg # 76):

"Sirs, have you come across any refugees in the area we are heading?" He describes the geographical location where they are going...

Kirpich will relate the information about the religion to his group once the others have departed.

As Kirpich describes where they are going, Balir pays close attention.  He isn't suspicious of the cultists so much, although he's still on guard.  What's more important to him is knowing where they were going, since he was new to the area.  He makes a mental picture of their path in his mind, to try and help him remember the lands surrounding Northport.

Aethul stands back and observes closely, looking for the obscene cross with the curved bottom, used by Saturnites...


[Private to GM:  15:27, Today: Aethul rolled 11 using 3d6.  Perception.  Skill is 15]

In reply to Aethul (msg # 79):

None of this group seem to bear that marking.
The spokesman eyes Kirpich with some suspicion.
"We may have encountered a few persons seeking to mark a year and a day out of unjust servitude. We hope we shall not find persecution in Northport. Are they welcoming of such persons there, or do they compell servitude?"
This message was last edited by the player at 14:45, Thu 24 Jan 2019.

In reply to cultist (msg # 80):

"I have not experienced such persecution there, except for criminals."

In reply to Kirpich Rockson (msg # 81):

"They do. The priests of Hades compell inentured servitude from those as cannot prove employment. Your best bet if not given a token at the shrine would be to join the Adventurers Guild, although it costs a bit."

In reply to Snorri Roslovich (msg # 82):

"That is unfortunate, but useful to know. May Vejovis peace be with you."

In reply to cultist (msg # 83):

The pilgrims all head up the road, towards the shrine in Northport, and possible indentured servitude.

With the few minutes of respite complete, Balir takes off his shield and straps it on his back again.  They had a long walk ahead of them, and it made no sense for him to carry his shield free if he didn't need it.

As he rearranges things, Balir takes out his whetstone so he can sharpen his axe a moment, until the rest of the group is ready to proceed.

shhhhht...   shhhhht...    shhhhht...

In reply to Balir Ironhide (msg # 85):

The rest of the day passes without incident. You prepare to set up camp.

Survival rolls please to set quality of campsite

Syvanus indicates a decent looking spot a short ways off the trail.






[Private to GM:  11:12, Today: Syvanus rolled 7 using 3d6.  Survival woodlands. Skill is 14]

In reply to Syvanus (msg # 87):

Kirpich creates some food out of grasses and waits to be directed by the others for a spot to rest.

[Private to GM: Rolled between 11 under and 7 under skill to create food, 4 rolls.]

Balir doesn't yet have very many skills for traveling on the surface.  He'll take on the role of security while the rest of the group goes about their important business.  He'll observe them to see what he can learn, but if there's any hint of danger he'll strap on his shield and be ready to defend the group.

In reply to Balir Ironhide (msg # 89):

The camp is comfortable and near a water source, to which Snorri leads the mule, but it is fairly easy to see from the road where it sits in an abandoned field.

In reply to Narrator (msg # 90):

Once the location is identified, Kirpich makes himself comfortable there. He shapes the earth to offer more concealment, and then rests to recover his strength.

[Private to GM: 4 rolls to shape earth, rolling under by 11, 11, 5, 11]

In reply to Kirpich Rockson (msg # 91):

Kirpich raises a berm which obstructs the view from the road.

The tent is assembled, and food prepared.

Who takes watch?

In reply to Narrator (msg # 92):

Kirpich, having expended much energy in constructing the berm and providing much food, asks to rest first and take a last watch.

I'll take second watch

I will take the last watch...

Balir will volunteer to take the first watch.

If you don't mind, your excellent night vision would be better used in the dark periods.

Balir is surprised to hear the elf address him directly.  He had done his best to ignore the presence of the sylvan one for most of the trip.  It wasn't anything personal, just that he was an elf.  Still, Balir did see the sense in what the elf was recommending.  As he was the new person in the group, he acquiesced (a bit gruffly).  "Fine, I'll take the middle watch."

In reply to Balir Ironhide (msg # 98):

"Since I am exhausted from casting spells, Syvanus, would you be so kind as to take the first watch for me? I am concerned I may not be my most observant if I have to."

Certainly, but someone will need to take the last watch, one that is often most important....

In reply to Syvanus (msg # 100):

"I have twice volunteered for that. I will have my heaviset friend with me as well, as will you all, since he never sleeps."

Very well, I shall do the first and you have the Last Kirpich.

In reply to Syvanus (msg # 102):

"Thank you. Now I think we are sorted out..."

In reply to Kirpich Rockson (msg # 103):

"I will take the last as well."

"Looks like I will take middle watch then. Who else is with me?"

In reply to Dionysus Dispatha (msg # 105):

"Chunky does not sleep, and can accompany everyone."

"I do not think there is any need Dionysus.  Kirpich seems to feel like one person will be enough."

In reply to Balir Ironhide (msg # 107):

"Not that I know anything special, but do we have enough members for more? Chunky can always assist as well."

In reply to Kirpich Rockson (msg # 108):

The watches proceed, with each person accompanied by the fairly oblivious elemental.

On the second watch, Dionysus hears something by the stream.

Dwarves are not generally known for their sensitivity.  In fact, they are most likely loud and boistrous in part because they don't hear well.  Anyone who spends much time in a forge is bound to have ringing in their ears for days afterwards.  The sound of hammers pounding metal can leave it's mark over time.

While that stereotype may not be true for all dwarves, it happens to be true at least in part for Balir.  Between his many days in a forge, and the soft jingling of his heavy mail as he walks patrol, he hears nothing...

In reply to Balir Ironhide (msg # 110):

Dionysus can however hear something...

In reply to Narrator (msg # 111):

"Hsst Balir, there is something down by the stream!"

When Balir hears Dionysus, he responds immediately with "I vill go look", and focuses his attention on being quiet.  Balir will approach the location Dionysus indicated quietly and slowly, putting himself between it and the party if possible.

[Private to GM: I will assume Balir already has his shield and axe ready.  If not he will do so.  Stealth, approach the stream slowly...Extra time and all that.]

In reply to Balir Ironhide (msg # 113):

By the stream, Balir spots a small catfolk person perched on a mossy rock andfishing with a pole. It turns toward you unsuprised and holds a finger over its lips.

"shhh. Don't scare off the fish."

Balir approaches slowly, and quietly if possible, until he gets to what seems like a polite but safe distance.  Dropping to one knee, Balir will straighten his arm so the shield allows for him to see the catfolk in the eye, and then ask quietly "My name is Balir, but I am not much of a fisherman.  Are they biting?"

After a moment, he will continue "And, what brings you out this far from town?  My group is passing through.  Since you're here, we're wondering if there is any dangers in this area we should avoid?"

In reply to Balir Ironhide (msg # 115):

"I am not certain this is the best spot, but it was too loud by my camp... one of my companions fancies himself a musician."

Well,’perhaps we could discuss it when you are done fishing? And I’m curious what brings you out this far.

In reply to Balir Ironhide (msg # 117):

"There is a little glen,
 full of little dancing men.
There the moonlight shines on those
Who come from beneath the hill.
When comes the dawn, as ever it will
Behind are seen only toadstool rings
Which open again for vagabonds and kings"


The cat pauses in its recitation, as something begins to tug on its line.
Deftly, it flicks its rod, and draws a small fish out of the water.

"I would invite you to join me, but there is barely enough for me."

“Thank you kind sir. I vill take your leave and return to my group.  Luck.”

Balir will return to watch and share what he has heard with his fellow watch mate, and then with the next watch.

In reply to Balir Ironhide (msg # 119):

The rest of the night passes uneventfully, but during breakfast, you hear a distant musical sound, some type of woodwind.

If not already done, Balir will recite the poem he heard back to the group during breakfast.  When he hears the woodwind playing, he'll take note.  However, that wouldn't occur to him to be threatening, so he won't put his shield on his arm or anything.  Instead, he'll ask "What do ve make ov that?"

In reply to Balir Ironhide (msg # 121):

"Where did you hear that poem?" Kirpich asked, surprised.

When he heard the woodwinds, he looked around, concerned.

"Did we have guests during the night you did not bother to wake us to meet?"

Balir will shrug and respond to Kirpich.  "During ze night I heard a cat person.  Maybe ve vould call him a Grimalkin?  He vas fishing, and told me that ven I spoke vith him."
This message was last edited by the player at 19:28, Wed 20 Feb 2019.

In reply to Balir Ironhide (msg # 123):

"It never occurred to you it was a distraction? Was someone else awake and on watch while you were chatting with your kitty friend, or was his friend robbing the rest of us blind?"

Balir opens his hands, palm up, as a way to express a question or uncertainty.  "Dionysus vas here in camp vile I vent to investigate, you should have been safe."
This message was last edited by the player at 20:00, Wed 20 Feb 2019.

In reply to Balir Ironhide (msg # 125):

"Ah, good. So you did leave a sentry. Just was concerned..."

In reply to Kirpich Rockson (msg # 126):

The wierd music seems a little louder. It seems to have a nice danceable beat to it.




This is the same tune on harpsichord
https://youtu.be/OnrICy3Bc2U

This seems odd and out of place; therefore not likely a good thing I fear... we need to be gone.

Syvanus packs his gear and urges others to do the same...

In reply to Syvanus (msg # 128):

"I agree. And they know we are here."

Kirpich packs up all he can, and is ready to go very soon.

Balir listens to the others, and purses his lips as he thinks for a moment.

"You assume hostile intent.  Zere may be none.  I agree ve should prepare, but ve should not act on zat assumption.  Zey vould not play music if zey vere going to attack us, would zey?"

Like the others, Balir will finish up his dwarven rations as he packs up his equipment.

Music can have magical effects, not necessarily good ones... caution is called for.

In reply to Aethul (msg # 131):

"Or it can be a simple distraction. Either way, anything out of place is not necessarily benign."

Balir continues to get packed up, making sure to keep his shield handy in case he needs to strap it on urgently. “You know better zan me..I vill follow your lead.”

We all pack and head out on the road then.

In reply to Syvanus (msg # 134):

as you break camp, and start to head for the road, you can hear a few voices, in additon to the music playing.  One voice Balir recognizes, but the other two he does not. The second voice is low and gravelly, the the third is a  higher and melodious.

In reply to Narrator (msg # 135):

Can we make out what is being said or sung?

Balir's face contorts into something of a confused look.  "I...recognize one of ze voices...?"

He starts racking his brain to see if he can remember where he has heard that voice before.

In reply to Balir Ironhide (msg # 137):

It is the voice of the cat creature you spoke to previously.


The voices are a little indistinct, but you can hear the timbre and cadence of their speech. It seems casual, and not guarded.

"I think one of the voices is the cat person I spoke to last night while fishing.  Maybe he can tell us more about our travel."

OOC Probably could have assumed that, but best not to.

In reply to Balir Ironhide (msg # 139):

"I have a feeling that cat is a type of faerie, as my people are considered to be as well."

In reply to Dionysus Dispatha (msg # 140):

"Yes, but of the malevolent or mischievous kind? You are welcome to try to talk to him, but I am keeping my guard up!"

By now Balir has his shield strapped on, so he is limited to gesturing with his free hand.  "He did not seem evil ven I spoke vith him.  Ve should vatch him, but I am not vorried."

In reply to Balir Ironhide (msg # 142):

[Private to Narrator:also Jelak, Hussadir, and Leandru]
 Bursting through the undergrowth in a twitchy kind of dance, dooting away on a hautbois is a strange,short, ugly creature with the face of a bat, wearing a patchwork tunic.
https://drive.google.com/file/...AX/view?usp=drivesdk

Balir remains quiet, waiting off to the side with the group, hand on his axe.  He doesn't know the world of humans yet, so he waits on the more seasoned in the party to react to the creature playing the music.

'Tis a woodgrue ... a fairy folk who are competent musicians, but quixotic and given to mischief at times.

In reply to Aethul (msg # 145):

Kirpich smiles.

"It is not the evil I worry about with them...it is the mischief!"

He stays on guard, keeping one eye on the creature and another behind them, in case the creature is a distraction, and ensuring Chunky and the horse are in front of him so he can watch them as well.

Since the others are more concerned with mischief than they are evil behaviors, Balir will pay close attention to the woodgrue as they pass.

In reply to Balir Ironhide (msg # 147):

A moment later, three others step through the brush.
The first is an elf, with an unearthly pale beauty, wearing brassy mail and carrying a bow.
The second is a sort of dwarf you have occasionally heard of but rarely seen, a moss dwarf. Known as brewers and forresters, they are often found in woids and peat bogs, and do not delve for minersks. This particular one has lichens growing on his hands, and algae in his beard, and smells strongly of yeast.

The third, entering your clearing last, is the grimalkin you met last night.

In reply to Narrator (msg # 148):

"Well met, I trust. What brings you four to these parts?"

Kirpich tries to keep his distance and keep a watch on all four, though the beautiful one is, well, distracting.

Balir also finds the elf distracting, although she is...an elf.  His aversion to the race does help him focus more intently on the rest of the group.  In particular, he finds the dwarf very interesting.  There were always rumors about such dwarves in the forest, but he had never heard of anyone who had actually seen or met one.  The world outside his home was fascinating!  Balir remains quiet, following Kirpich's lead, and watching the group as intently as he can despite the distractions.

In reply to Balir Ironhide (msg # 150):

The frost elf looks with a hint of disdain at your group, and raises an eyebrow at Syvanus.
"We are passing through, from the West, travelling East. From whence come you, and under which banner?"

In reply to Leandru (msg # 151):

The moss dwarf gives Balir the nod, and looks quizzically at Chunky the elemental with his deep black eyes.

In reply to Hussdor (msg # 152):

The booted cat smiles broadly, and taps the woodgrue on the shoulder.
" Let us greet these folk before you begin playing for them. I am called Jelak, although I have other names The one who thinks he is a musician is Fisbie. The others are Leandru and Hussador."

We head west to resolve some issues for a guild in Northport. It's a rather cosmopolitan organization.

While Balir does not make it obvious, he ignores the elf.  Instead, he takes a step off to the side to speak with the moss dwarf in Dwarvish.  "Greetings Hussdor.  Ve have heard much about moss dwarves, but not ever met one.  I am Balir, descendant of Federjung, and come in peace (unlike my ancestor).  My home is Dvergholt, to the north.  Vell met."

In reply to Syvanus (msg # 154):

Kirpich notes others have spoken, and so he will not add for risk of creating confusion. He smiles at the dwarf looking at Chunky.

In reply to Balir Ironhide (msg # 155):

The moss dwarf replies to Balir in their shared language, although with a slight accent.
"Hail and well met, cousin. I am Hussador of the Wold. I travel with these fey creatures as their company is not unpleasant. I see you have an elf also. Which court do they serve?"

Balir nods as the moss dwarf speaks in their shared tongue.  He is glad to know there were dwarves outside of his home, even if they were more distant relatives.  He responds in kind to his cousin:

"I only joined this party recently, so I cannot speak about our elf.  I find him aloof or even arrogant, but the rest of the group trusts his counsel, and he has been professional.  At this point I have no reason to mistrust him beyond the fact that he is an elf, and I find that to be a poor judgement of character.  He can handle himself just fine, or he would not be here.  What of your elf?  And, what can you tell us of the travel ahead?  Is there gold to be found?"

In reply to Balir Ironhide (msg # 158):

"Less gold than I would like, and more silver than my companions can tolerate. I am forced to change our coin for copper farthings to accommodate their revulsion. The way west leads only to small hamlets and the foothills of the mountains where the wildmen dwell. There are faiey creatures throughout the woods, and hags and witches as well."
This message was last edited by the player at 22:50, Fri 01 Mar 2019.

OOC Balir is quite chatty, so he'll talk for as long as the moss dwarf wants to.  Instead of bogging the thread down so everyone has to wait, I'll fast-forward to the end by listing off the questions he'll most likely ask along the way.

* Balir will ask about their group, where they came from, where they are going, and ask follow up questions if it seems appropriate.

* There are tons of questions to be asked about moss dwarves in general, like where they live, and what connection they have back to the subterranean dwarves.  Balir will also ask about magic, and what the differences are between them.

* As they seem to be traveling in the opposite direction, are there specific friendly people or dangerous situations that Hussdor can share with them?

I can think of many more questions, but that seems like it will cover what they'll likely have time to discuss.  I imagine the group at large will want to get moving.

Balir will not share anything too personal, and he will not mention their mission.  Otherwise, he's open to sharing information to whatever point seems appropriate.

He'll keep his eyes open for mischief as the rest of the group mentioned it might be an issue.  If alcohol is offered, Balir will trust the moss dwarf and have some.  He did not bring any of is own, not knowing if it would be acceptable on his first guild trip.

EDIT - oh, and he'll sharpen his axe if he gets comfortable nough that it would be safe to do so.

[Private to GM: The only character detail here would be the Compulsive Carousing.]
This message was last edited by the player at 22:22, Fri 01 Mar 2019.

[private to Balir Ironhide: compulsive carousing is not chattiness, that is Chummy. Never refusing a drink or an occasion to party is cc]
"I don't know about you, but I am parched. This is a brew I made last week, using morels and wild hops. Do you care to partake?"
He unslings a wineskin and extends it to you.

In reply to Hussdor (msg # 161):

The bat faced woodgrue immediately prances over and extends a small wooden cup, apparently for its own use.

In reply to Fisbie (msg # 162):

Kirpich will listen for a bit, before asking

"Care to translate?"

Balir responds "Sure, Kirpich.  The important part is what he told me about the way west.  Hussdor said they only saw small hamlets.  He also mentioned wild men who live in the foothills of the mountains. The woods contain fairy creatures, along with hags and witches.

Now, I am going to try this brew to see how it tastes.  I have never had moss dwarf ale before."

Balir will share the ale with Hussdor.

OOC I'm assuming he'll have something in his "personal basics" for drinking.  If not, he may need to borrow a mug.

[Private to GM: I should explain...  I was thinking modern day with Balir, as in be professional and don't go getting drunk your first mission.  As a dwarf, he would be thinking more along the lines of 'wait, these people don't drink on the job...?'  To really hit the right tone I really should have brought a wineskin with ale in it or something.  He should have had the ale, and been offering the drinks on the front side.  I was trying to say I missed that point and left out what he needed for carousing]
This message was last edited by the player at 15:28, Mon 04 Mar 2019.

In reply to Balir Ironhide (msg # 164):

The ale is hearty and dark, and very frothy, like a sour, smoky stout.
[Private to Balir Ironhide: I would throw you that, and a stone bottle with a quart of hard stuff, that you could nurse for most of the trip at a shot a day. Being a carouser doesn't make you a drunk, it makes you a pleasant drink8ng companion.]

The woodgrue pounds it back, and starts doing a frantic giggling dance.
Leandru rolls her eyes at this display.

In reply to Fisbie (msg # 165):

Kirpich just watches in amusement, keeping an eye on all the odd characters...not just the dancing ones.

Balir enjoys the ale and makes small talk for as long as the rest of the group seems willing to loiter around.  He'll also share some of his ale, although sparingly - he will explain it has to last him for a long trip, although he won't elaborate even if asked.

[Private to GM: I concur.  Balir wouldn't get drunk on the job, but I expect he would have a beer with his work.  Dwarves need to loosen up and enjoy their jobs after all.  I'm trying to play the carousing and the chummy here.  I'll gladly take the aleskin and mug, and adjusted my response to include that.

Side note - I have seen plenty of GMs who are black and white about the character sheets.  Appreciate that you're more gray on that, as ale is something I should have thought to bring for a chummy carouser.]

In reply to Balir Ironhide (msg # 167):

"Where are you all heading, so heavily kitted out. I must confess, I am curious."

Balir falls quiet at the question.  He isn't one of the leaders of their party, he's new and inexperienced when it comes to travel above the ground.  The question was for someone else to answer.  Instead of making his silence obvious, Balir quietly starts packing up his mug and aleskin, as he expects they will move on before long.

In reply to Balir Ironhide (msg # 169):

"We head off to investigate reports of trouble." Kirpich answers matter of factly.

In reply to Kirpich Rockson (msg # 170):

The elf smiles wryly."We travel eastward in search of opportunity and rumors of home."

In reply to Leandru (msg # 171):

"Opportunities and rumors of home? I am not sure I understand..."

In reply to Kirpich Rockson (msg # 172):

"This is a wondrous land, and a curious place to be sure. There are however, portals to faerie, some fixed, some seasonal, scattered about. Leandru has occasional duties at the winter court, and the passage we last took this way leads to a place not near her destination, so we seek other paths to faerie."

In reply to Jelak (msg # 173):

"Most of the gates I know are far to the south, near the sea, but one must pass through the cities of men before closing on the hinterlands.
There is one other way I know, in the city of Northport, there is a tavern called Hypathia's Hoofprints, with a faerie ring in the back garden."

In reply to Dionysus Dispatha (msg # 174):

"That is certainly good information. Please excuse Fisbie, he has decided our parley is instead a party."

In reply to Leandru (msg # 175):

The woodgrue has moved from dancing to playing. An irresistible urge is rising with the odd flutelike music, whi h is both haunting and frantic at once.
 Make will rolls to resist breaking into dance!
Any magic resistance counts.

In reply to Fisbie (msg # 176):

Kirpixh frown.

"To invite is acceptable, but to compel dancing is outright rude. If you will finish that, we will be on our way."

He looks around to check prying hands are not too close to his companions.

[Private to GM: Rolled 7 under will...]
This message was last edited by the player at 20:12, Sun 10 Mar 2019.

Aethul starts to tap his feet in time with the music.



[Private to GM: 19:21, Today: Aethul rolled 13 using 3d6.  Will. Missed by one]

Syvanus controls his urge to dance.



[Private to GM:  19:23, Today: Syvanus rolled 11 using 3d6.  Will. Just made it.]

Balir also frowns at the compulsion to dance. It seems impolite to him. Thankfully, he resists the urge, but in part circumstance helps with that. The tower shield and heavy mail make dancing quite inconvenient. “I agree. That music is nice, but the compulsion is most unwelcome. Please, put away the flute. “
This message was last edited by the player at 17:26, Mon 11 Mar 2019.

In reply to Balir Ironhide (msg # 180):

The hautbois playing bat faced goblin seems caught under the sway of his own music, playing on
 and dancing himself as if compelled.
The satyr seems caught under his sway as well.  The Moss dwarf sways slightly, but you can see by the twitching of his tail that the grimalkin is just irritated, and the frost elf looks done with the entire situation.

Balir shakes his head at the inaction on the part of Fishbie.  The creature was of the Fey, so maybe this was a normal behavior.  He had no idea.  Regardless, it was bothersome, and he had asked politely.  Balir will hang his axe on his belt, and then approach Fishbie to gently knock the instrument away from his mouth.

"I mean no harm, but it seems Fishbie has been captured in his own thrall."

OOC I expect this to go badly, but...  I think this is what he would do.

[Private to GM: My initial reaction was to ask Hussdor to step in.  But, looking over the character sheet, Balir has some overconfident.  He thinks he can stop the music without giving offense, which I as the player doubt.  He's also a bit naive to the ways of the world.  I had him put the axe on his belt because he can obviously take any of these visitors handily... ]
This message was last edited by the player at 23:03, Mon 11 Mar 2019.

In reply to Balir Ironhide (msg # 182):

as Balir pushes the delicate instrument from the woodgrue's lips, the creature frowns.
"Hey man, what gives? why you trying to harsh my mellow? I was getting into the groove, man, that was not cool."

Balir nods in an understanding fashion.  "No offense intended.  Play music if you wish, but please do not compel us to dance.  We were having a nice conversation, and a nice brew.  I do not wish to dance in mail armor and a tower shield."

In reply to Balir Ironhide (msg # 184):

"Man, what a downer! You need to loosen up, maybe lose the metal threads, drink a little more and get nice!"

Balir takes a knee so he can look Fishbie in the eye.  "On another day, I will gladly share a brew and dance with you.  Unfortunately, we have a job to do, so my friends and I must work.  It seems you have somewhere to be as well.  I think we must take our leave from you for now.  After we are gone, I am sure the frost elf would gladly dance with you."  Balir stifles a smirk as he stands back up, and prepares to move on down the road.  "Well met Hussdor, and friends."

In reply to Balir Ironhide (msg # 186):

The woodgrue looks Balir straight in the eye.
"Invitation accepted."

Balir nods in response to Fishbie's comment.  He had no problem relaxing for an time with a woodgrue, under the assumption his gold and belongings were safe.  That would of course be the trick...

Athul shakes his head to clear it and tries to recover his grasp on the surroundings

In reply to Aethul (msg # 189):

"I think you should play a little nicer too. Using magic to force people to do things is extremely rude, not mallow. Inviting people to dance is nice, but forcing them, not so much. Good day folks."

Kirpich begins to lead folk down the road.

Aethul  follows Kirpich

Balir will nod at Hussdor as a gesture of respect, and then follow Kirpich as well.

Syvanus heads out and gets ahead of the group and wagon to act as a scout.

In reply to Syvanus (msg # 193):

With the fey folk behind you, the road stretches uneventfully ahead until nightfall, with little to see except for farmers tilling the soil and a few sheep.

Balir will assist with setting up camp and volunteer to take the middle watch again.  As he (probably) has the best night vision, and is something of the low man on the totem pole, it seems reasonable.

OOC By the way, I take it from mentions that Kirpich has a friendly earth elemental that has been accompanying us?

In reply to Balir Ironhide (msg # 195):

The elemental is a small one, about a yard tall, and looking like a stack of rocks in humanoid shape.

Occ: something like the one in Heavy Metal 2, as opposed to the one in GalaxyQuest
This message was last edited by the GM at 19:39, Sun 17 Mar 2019.

In reply to chunky (msg # 196):

"My Elemental 'Chunky' goes where I go. He is a good friend of mine." Kirpich says, as he assists in setting up the campsite, moving earth as required, before creating some food out of the local vegetation.


[Private to GM: Rolled a natural 6 for shaping earth,, as well as an 8. Rolled a 10 and 14 to create food.Skill 20 for all.]

In reply to Kirpich Rockson (msg # 197):

With the camp built, you settle in for the night. Watches?

In reply to Narrator (msg # 198):

Kirpich will volunteer for last, and suggest we keep a watch routine as last time, but with perhaps 5 shorter watches...

Syvanus > Balir > Dionysus > Snorri > Kirpich

Sound right to all as standard practice?

Aethul can stand a watch.

In reply to Aethul (msg # 200):

So

Syvanus > Balir > Dionysus > Aethul > Snorri > Kirpich ?

Balir is fine with this.

No problem

In reply to Aethul (msg # 203):

During Aethul's watch, he notices something glowing in the distance, looking a bit like moonlight in the woods.

Aethul will wake Syvanus and Kirpich

In reply to Aethul (msg # 205):

"Thanks for waking us. Perhaps someone stealthy can investigate while the rest of us watch the camp..."

I am somewhat stealthy, I could go...

In reply to Aethul (msg # 207):

"Ok. Can you signal us if there is trouble?"

In reply to Kirpich Rockson (msg # 208):
Aethul make a stealth roll, and a per.

Yes, I can touch your right shoulder if I need aid, your left if you  just to be on guard and Your cheek if we should pack up and escape quietly.

He slinks off to check on what is out there.

[Private to GM:
09:16, Today: Aethul rolled 10 using 3d6.  Stealth.  By 3
09:16, Today: Aethul rolled 12 using 3d6.  Perception. By 3 as well]

In reply to Aethul (msg # 210):

As you approach the silvery glow, you can make out that it comes from an enourmous twelve point buck, quietly eating ferns.
The animal is beautiful and faintly luminous.

Aethul casts  a small spell, the rises and attempts to approach the Stag.

You are a most handsome Stag, can you speak as well?

When the Stag accepts his approach or runs off, he will cast again,
attempting to let Kirpich know all is well.
He fails his attempt and tries one more time to cast, this time Kirpich should feel a touch on his left shoulder.


[Private to GM:  14:40, Today: Aethul rolled 9 using 3d6.  Beast Soother.  Skill is 12
14:44, Today: Aethul rolled 13 using 3d6.  Touch. Skill is 12 -  Failed
Second try - 14:47, Today: Aethul rolled 6 using 3d6.  Touch. Success by 6 ]

In reply to Aethul (msg # 212):

Kirpich remains on guard.

In reply to Aethul (msg # 212):

The great silvery beast permits itself to be touched. Aethul feels something calming and strange.

[Private to Aethul: you are now blessed]

My thanks, and how may we repay you?

In reply to Aethul (msg # 215):

The creature eyes Aethu for a momemt and begins to walk away. It looks back and then continues into the forrest.

Aethul will follow, presuming that was what the Stag wanted.

In reply to Aethul (msg # 217):

The great beast heads deeper into the woods, walking with purpose...

Aethul keeps up as best he can, but is becoming concerned at how far he has gone away from the party.  He finally stops and says, I can nay follow further and leave my friends, we protect each other and I am gone longer than they expected me to be.




[Private to GM:   10:58, Today: Aethul rolled 6 using 3d6.  Curious - self control 9 or less.]

In reply to Aethul (msg # 219):

Kirpich looks around nervously, wondering where he has gone...

In reply to Aethul (msg # 219):

The majestic beast nods, and continues on its way.
This message was last updated by the player at 19:54, Fri 29 Mar 2019.

He returns sometime later... A majestic Stag, very large and it glowed with a soft light. I managed to go up to it and touch it... then followed it a ways before returning.

In reply to Aethul (msg # 222):

"Interesting. Did it say what it wanted?"

It said nothing, but I feel really good having seen it.



[Private to GM: So how long do I remain blessed?]

In reply to Aethul (msg # 224):

"I see. So I can go back to sleep now?"

Certainly...

In reply to Aethul (msg # 226):

Kirpich will do so!

In reply to Aethul (msg # 224):

The rest of the night passes without incident.
[Private to Aethul: until either you make a critical failure or an enemy makes either a critical hit or does enough damage in one attack to kill you, and then the effect is negated along with the blessing]

Balir wakes up, and seeing that he's still alive along with everyone else, he'll proceed to break camp.  He's full of chat this morning, however, and will talk to whoever wants to about the moss dwarf, frost elf, and the encounter from the other day. *

* Except the elf.  Balir will politely ignore him, if that is possible.

In reply to Balir Ironhide (msg # 229):

Kirpich is more concerned to know why he had to wake up so someone could go frolic with the wild animals...

In reply to Kirpich Rockson (msg # 230):

"What happened last night? I took the last watch, and no one said anything."

Balir looks up from where he's rummaging in his pack.  As he pulls out his whetstone, he looks up and asks the same, as he sharpens his axe.

"I didn't hear anything.  Did something interesting happen last night?"

....shhhhht........shhhhht......

In reply to Balir Ironhide (msg # 232):

"Ask Aethul. He asked me to take watch so he could run off chasing a deer...and he did not even come back with venison!"

Not quite true... I saw a light moving in the woods and awakened Kirpich, I then went and investigated it, finding a glowing and regal stag, which I followed for a bit, as it was obviously magical. Then I returned and let grumpy resume his sleep   He smiles.

In reply to Aethul (msg # 234):

Once back on the road, which you find to be poorly maintained, you find little to see but overgrown abandoned farmland for several hours. Then, towards dusk, the land begins to clear, and you can see large areas of shallow flooding to either side of the road. The peasants working in these flooded fields look a little odd. Most are wearing wide b4immed straw hats.

In the distance beyond the fields you can see small huts.

In reply to Narrator (msg # 235):

Kirpich is mainly concerned that those working in the fields are living humans. Different races are not such a problem, though communicating with them may prove to be...

In reply to Kirpich Rockson (msg # 236):

They are living humans, but appear to be Sahudese.

In reply to Narrator (msg # 237):

That is OK. Sahudese farmers are still farmers. Interesting, what they could be growing under shallow flooding...

In reply to Kirpich Rockson (msg # 238):

It is starting to get dark. The road is raised up from the flooded areas. You will need to get off the road somewhere soon.

Ahead you can see a crosswise embankment heading toward the villiage.

Perhaps the Village will let us stay there.

Balir will ignore what the Dwarf said, and suggest "Perhaps zey vill let us stay in ze village."

In reply to Balir Ironhide (msg # 241):

Snorri guides the mule toward the village. It is beginning to rain, and the road, while gravelled, is becoming a little sludgy.

In reply to Snorri Roslovich (msg # 242):

Kirpich will wait until the arrive before looking for an inn or place to stay.

Balir will follow along as normal, looking for a tavern where he can get some ale, and some dwarven folk with whom to carouse.

In reply to Balir Ironhide (msg # 244):

The Sahudese peasants have but meager huts, some on stilts, without anything that resembles a tavern. One mumbles a greeting in broken Aralaise.

In reply to Narrator (msg # 245):

Kirpich will ask the local. "Place to say tonight?"

In reply to Kirpich Rockson (msg # 246):

The farmerleads you to one hut where several people, aparently unrelated are passing small earthenware cups , after pointing under a stilt hut to place your cart.

Balir follows along, watching the interactions and absorbing the customs of the humans as they interact.

In reply to Balir Ironhide (msg # 248):

These folk are simple, but seem disturbed by Kirpich's companion and Dionysus'horns and hooves. They offer each of you a small cup of warm liquid.

Aethul takes it, bows and sips his.

Balir will do the same.

In reply to Balir Ironhide (msg # 251):

Kirpich also attempts to follow what appears to be the custom here, and does what he sees others doing once the saddle horse has been parked.

"My friend is a friend of the earth, as am I."

He accepts the warm liquid gratefully and tries it.

In reply to Kirpich Rockson (msg # 252):

The beverage is a yeasty rice based ale, and fairly potent.

In reply to Narrator (msg # 253):

When Kirpich realizes what it is, he has very little more of it. If asked, he blames a weak stomach.

He attempts to neutralize the alcohol, as it is a mild poison, but that does not go so well. Apparently, Grom disagrees that it is poison, so he partakes no more.

[Private to GM: Attempted Neutralize poison, rolled a natural 17, skill 20.]

Balir will try to get himself an entire tankard, and start asking questions from the locals, mostly making small talk about the weather and travel.

Aethul will sip but not drink, if he gets a chance, he'll pour his in Balir's glass.


[Private to GM: 20:17, Today: Aethul rolled 7 using 3d6.  will. By 5]

In reply to Balir Ironhide (msg # 255):

The locals who speak broken Aralaise are happy to fill your tankard. A few talk among themselves in their language, and point at your weapons, but don't seem to be bothered by them.
  The brew does not seem to be particularly harsh, but is intoxicating.

The amount initially poured is about a
shot, not enough to really intoxicate. If Aethul is sipping enough to be polite, he doesn't have to pass it off.

Dionysus has a couple of rounds, and starts to sing... Poorly.

In reply to Narrator (msg # 257):

Kirpich will just watch and try to make conversation to distract from him not drinking.

Aethul will look around to see if there is anything he can do to help these folks and show good will.

Balir will be sure to ask questions of Kirpich, asking about his religion and god.  Otherwise he will drink his tankard and talk with the locals about whatever they want to discuss.  He'll occasionally stroke his beard as he listens to people speak.

In reply to Balir Ironhide (msg # 260):

Kirpich is only too happy to go an about Grom. And on, and on...

In reply to Kirpich Rockson (msg # 261):

The locals get a little rowdy, laughing heavily at the faun, although two do pull out stringed bowed instruments and play along, and proceed to sing just as badly.
One does seem put out by Kirpich's prattling about Grom, and leaves, returning with a painted scroll with a mandala and a great number of small depictions of assorted multilimbed deities. He points at several, giving names, and then takes Kirpich's finger as if to point, and says "Grome?"


Make a Theology roll at -2
This message had punctuation tweaked by the GM at 19:29, Wed 17 Apr 2019.

As Balir was part of the conversation, he will watch what happens with Kirpich with a high level of interest.

In reply to Narrator (msg # 262):

Kirpich knows a lot about his own pantheon, but this does not look familiar...

[Private to GM: Theology -1, so failed with the -2 penalty by 1.]

In reply to Kirpich Rockson (msg # 264):

Kirpich is unable to locate the equivalent positioning on this chart of where in the scheme of divine and infernal beings his elemental lord would be placed.  The shaman is suspicious. He calls forth something unseen that seems to interact with Chunky. Make a theology or spirit lore roll
[Privste to Narrator:T'u-ti Kung]
This message was last edited by the GM at 20:40, Thu 18 Apr 2019.

In reply to Narrator (msg # 265):

The small elemental seems confused, and answers unseen questions in a gravelly voice.

In reply to chunky (msg # 266):

This Kirpich does seem to understand...[Private to GM: Rolled 7 under theology]

Balir strokes his beard as he watches the interplay intently.  Pretty much all of this is beyond what he understands on the theological level.  Instead, he motions one of the locals for another tankard of drink, and pulls out his whetstone to sharpen his axe.  As he watches Kirpich, he'll ask the locals "Vat is going on?  Can you explain?"

In reply to Kirpich Rockson (msg # 267):

The priest listens to an unseen voice, an points to a spot on his chart.
"T'u-ti Kung....Grome."

In reply to Village shaman (msg # 269):

"You know Grom by a different name?"

In reply to Kirpich Rockson (msg # 270):

The shaman points at a greenish band outside the main circle of deities on his chart to a number of small figures, most of whom have many arms. he reaches down and grasps a handful of earth and lets it fall through his fingers. "T'u-ti Kung."

In reply to Village shaman (msg # 271):

"Tu-Ti Kung, a god of Earth. But same god? Grom Good, Grom Helps people..."

He looks around to see if any need healing, and does so if he sees any.

"Tu-Ti Kung heal?" he asks after that.

In reply to Kirpich Rockson (msg # 272):

While the shaman looks at you uncomprehending, the man with a little broken Aralaise offers what sounds like a translation. After a little back and forth, he answers.
"T'u-ti Kung god of earth, crops, mountains, does healing, grants wisdom and strength."

...by now Balir should be well into his second tankard...

In reply to Balir Ironhide (msg # 274):

Make a carousing roll to settle the uneven reaction of the villagers.

Some of the locals seem to be uncertain about what's going on or even agitated, so Balir will try to smooth it over with some stories from Dvergholt that he thinks they might relate to.

[Private to GM: 14:24, Today: Secret Roll: Balir Ironhide rolled 10 using 3d6.  Carousing 14.]

In reply to Balir Ironhide (msg # 276):

Your gusto and cheer drown out the impressions of the teatotalers and the blatant drunkenness of the satyr!

In reply to Village laborer (msg # 277):

Kirpich is unsure if is the same god, but they sound very similar.

In reply to Kirpich Rockson (msg # 278):

It maybe simply that he is satisfied with knowing a cognate that fits his theology.

Balir will continue his lively conversation with the locals, since Kirpich seems to have ironed out the concern he had with the religion topic.

Aethel will use hand signs to ascertain where it is OK to spread his sleeping gear, it's always easier to do it in daylight, which may be fading soon.

In reply to Aethul (msg # 281):

They direct you to where you can sleep, and where the animals may be boarded out of the rain. Not much l9nger after full dark, the villagers  creep away to sleep, for most of them will be awake before dawn.

What preparations will you make for the night?

OOC Balir will volunteer for a watch in the middle of the night if the group feels we need one.  Otherwise, the standard precautions he would take among people he doesn't know - keep your valuables close, that sort of thing.

In reply to Balir Ironhide (msg # 283):

Kirpich will ask for the last watch, and will create some food for the next day before resting. He will want Chunky to stay near the animals and guard them. How far are they from where we are sleeping?

In reply to Kirpich Rockson (msg # 284):

The animals are under the next hut, together with an ox.

In reply to Kirpich Rockson (msg # 284):

How clearly can a guard see them from our hut?

Aethul will take any watch no one else wants.

In reply to Aethul (msg # 287):

With the heavy rain it is not easy to see.

Balir will declare "I will sleep with the animals if we are concerned.  I don't expect anyone would bother them with someone as formidable as me there."

In reply to Narrator (msg # 288):

In that case Kirpich will suggest keeping two watches...

In reply to Kirpich Rockson (msg # 290):

The watches continue, until a little before dawn, you notice a lone lantern that was hanging beside a house go out.

In reply to Narrator (msg # 291):

Does the lantern remain there, or go somewhere else?

In reply to Kirpich Rockson (msg # 292):

In the dark, with the light out, you cannot see it. Per roll to have seen any details before the light went out.

In reply to Narrator (msg # 293):

Assuming there is some residual light from other sources, Kirpich looks out.

[Private to GM: Rolled 7 under perception, night vision 9]

In reply to Kirpich Rockson (msg # 294):

Just before the light went out, you could see a humanoid figure approach the lantern, and then their neck stretched about two yards toward the lantern, tipping it to the side and then the light went out, the neck retracted and they walked away.

In reply to Narrator (msg # 295):

Kirpich will see to it that the others are woken, while he and Chunky watch the beasts.

OOC If Kirpich comes over to the tent with the animals I will assume Balir is awake.  Otherwise, I will assume he's sleeping (unless he hears something, etc).

Aethul will rise, arm himself quickly and go to check on the animals and Balir, letting him know something was seen.

In reply to Aethul (msg # 298):

As you are roused, you gather about. What light do you have?
It is still raining lightly, and the ground is very muddy.
This message was last edited by the GM at 19:28, Mon 13 May 2019.

Balir has a lantern with the oil already in it, but no additional oil to keep it lit.  He'll offer that if no one else steps forth with a better option.

In reply to Balir Ironhide (msg # 300):

Kirpich neither has nor needs any significant light. Any ambient light at all, and he can see.

OOC I assumed Kirpich was a human.  Is he a Dwarf then, or just has some priestly stuff?  Balir would know more from their talking, but the driver doesn't.

Along those same lines, Balir has night vision, so he wouldn't need much light to see either.

In reply to Balir Ironhide (msg # 302):

Kirpich is human, but Groms domain is underground, so Grom grants night vision.
This message was last edited by the player at 03:25, Tue 14 May 2019.

ethul takes the lantern from Balir, opens the door and reaches in, he says something and moves a bit peculiarly ... there are some sparks of yellow and green and then a bright light issues from the lantern. He closes the door and hands it back to Balir.



[Private to GM: 17:48, Today: Aethul rolled 8 using 3d6.  Continuous Light - Torch. Made by 4
Rolled a 4 on 2D6 for length of light, so it lasts 4 days ]

In reply to Aethul (msg # 304):

You can see the area more clearly.
There are a number of footprints in the mud. The hanging lantern's door is open, and there is no oil in it.

In reply to Narrator (msg # 305):

"Don't touch it. Let their investigators look into it. We will need to keep watch though...is there a town watch to be alerted?"

In reply to Kirpich Rockson (msg # 306):

There does not seem to be, on the other hand you arrived after sunset.

Balir is no tracker, so he stays clear of the footprints.  His main focus is maintaining a perimeter so the others can view the evidence.

Aethul is a Tracker, so he carefully staeps around the tracks and looks at them without messing them up...





[Private to GM: 16:08, Today: Aethul rolled 13 using 3d6.  Tracking. by two]
This message was last edited by the player at 23:09, Wed 15 May 2019.

In reply to Aethul (msg # 309):

The normal looking sandal prints circle back to one of the houses.

On its stoop are a number of sandals, all of them muddy, but only one of them damp.
This message was last edited by the GM at 01:23, Fri 17 May 2019.

Perhaps refilling the lamp oil?

In reply to Aethul (msg # 311):

"I wonder if they did that to go to sleep? Seems strange though, to waste oil."

Is there any on the ground?

In reply to Kirpich Rockson (msg # 312):

There was no oil on the ground, and the footprints didn't quite come close to the lamp. The inside of the oil reservoir is dry, nut just low.

In reply to Narrator (msg # 313):

Without touching it, does it feel warm at all?

In reply to Kirpich Rockson (msg # 314):

Moving your hand close to the lamp, you can tell that it is still warm, although the glass does not have the typical darkening that occurs when a lamp b7rns completely out.

In reply to Narrator (msg # 315):

So the oil has been removed by someone without touching it...or there was a light stone in it. But light stones would not provide heat, would they?

In reply to Kirpich Rockson (msg # 316):

The lantern is an oil lamp, and was completely emptied of oil, which is nowhere to be seen.

In reply to Narrator (msg # 317):

"Does anyone have any more oil to light the lamp? And can someone check on Chunky and the horses, and those who still sleep, if any?"

He himself watches around for anything suspicious.

"The animals were fine when I was awakened, but I will go check them again now."
Balir will stride off to check the animals.

In reply to Balir Ironhide (msg # 319):

The (very hung over) Satyr shakes his head."I have a glow vial, if that helps."

The animals are fine.

In reply to Dionysus Dispatha (msg # 320):

"My first choice wold be more oil, or a Continual light stone..."

Balir settles back into his role as a lookout.  He's bored by the talking around a lamp and it's missing oil.  Who really cares?  Still, just in case of trouble, he stays alert and observant.

In reply to Balir Ironhide (msg # 322):

Dawn starts to break, and you hear stirring in some of the huts.

In reply to Narrator (msg # 323):

Kirpich checks on their animals and group members...

Balir will start preparing his equipment for travel.  No sense going back to sleep since daylight has broken.

In reply to Balir Ironhide (msg # 325):

You break camp as the farmers begin to head out into the sunken fields, while others are cooking rice over communal pots.

Per roll please.

As usual, Aethul stays alert and keeps looking about ...




[Private to GM:  12:12, Today: Aethul rolled 12 using 3d6.  Perception. By 3]

In reply to Village laborer (msg # 326):

Kirpich is also wary as he packs up and prepares to head out.

[Private to GM: Rolled 9 under perception.]

Balir maintains his watch as the rest of the group prepares their things.  He had already started preparing for the day's travel, so he was a step ahead of some.

[Private to GM: Balir makes his roll right on the money.  He's a little tired and not at his best.  :)
16:04, Today: Secret Roll: Balir Ironhide rolled 12 using 3d6.  PER 12 for Balir.]

In reply to Balir Ironhide (msg # 329):

You notice something about a particular sleepy looking farmer-his sandals are already muddy, whearas the others are dusty, and his mouth is a little greasy.

In reply to Village laborer (msg # 330):

"What happened last night, are we going?"