Leaving the Village, Balin, Aethul, Hannatti, Kirpich, Snorri, and Marlena head back toward Brouse to secure their ownership of the vampire tower.

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This message was last edited by the GM at 18:56, Thu 16 Nov 2023.

"well, I guess it's time to report back and see if the baron's going to honour his promises," suggests Hannatti.

I would be surprised, especially as we also removed that beast that was tearing up things.

In reply to Aethul (msg # 3):

"Yes, but we should not take things for granted. Let us take the men here to the tower to begin setting up whilst we keep going to ensure things are approved."

OOC: I am assuming the tower is on the way to Brouse, no?

"Well, I am sure once we explain our many qualities to the new baron, and all the hardships we went through, he will see the wisdom in honouring the old baron's agreement. If he doesn't, I am sure many people of the adventurer's guild would end up hearing about it, and they might not be overly enthusiastic about a ruler that doesn't honour agreements." Balir is silent for a few seconds, before continuing "But I am sure this won't be a problem."

In reply to Balir Ironhide (msg # 5):

The tower is a days journey from the village; Brouse is two days from the tower, following the old imperial road.

So the tower is NOT on the way to Brouse then? Or is it?

In reply to Balir Ironhide (msg # 7):

it is a slight detour off road to the west, but you need to go south to get to the turnoff.  Brouse is to the south , but you need to go Southwest then south then southeast to get there on the road, which skirts around the rice paddies

In reply to Narrator (msg # 8):

Then take the crowd to the tower to start on a holy grove/temple of Grom, leaving them most of the supplies before continuing on to Brouse. Have them clear the place and make it suitable for habitation again, with us there the first night, starting by clearing out the well.

In reply to Kirpich Rockson (msg # 9):

Your followers wistfully forsake the shelter of the village and head along the iter.
Once in sight of the tower, towards sunset, you need to decide if you are going to set up camp or press on in the dark.

"I say we continue. The tower is safer than out here, and if there is something lurking in the dark in this area, we need to find it and deal with it anyway, before it deals with the people we hope will settle here."

In reply to Balir Ironhide (msg # 11):

as you approach the outer wall, you hear a tremendous buzzing
It sounds like the stirges are vack, and in quantity!

"Sounds like we are about to get some action!" Balir sounds a bit more enthusiastic than he intended

======
OOC: Distance to the buzzers??

We might be wiser to withdraw and leave them be. The village needed a magical creature to deal with them.

In reply to Aethul (msg # 15):

the stiges, essentially foot long mosquitoes from hell,
seem to be swarming outside of the hunting range of
the giant blessed dragonfly.

"Well, nothing will happen if we just stand here, and we can't allow those things to terrorize OUR lands," Balir says, dons his shield and axe, and starts jogging towards the buzzing.

In reply to Balir Ironhide (msg # 13):

Marlena's hands craxkle wirh green sparks as she casts a spell.

In reply to Marlena DuBois (msg # 18):

"I agree they must be dealt with, but not everyone here can fight. We need some cover for these guys..." he says, referring to the followers.

Is there a farmhouse nearby? How far to the walls?

OOC: @GM: Just le me know when Balir has arrived and can start fighting.

In reply to Balir Ironhide (msg # 20):


Marlena continues hersecond round of chanting.

Snorri readies his axe and shield and jogs along beside
Balir.

Lacking ranged capability Hannatti contents herself with defending Aethul who very much has.

Aehul prepares his bow, this will certainly be difficult, as shooting flying things always is...

In reply to Aethul (msg # 23):

the Stirges start flying toward you.

He fires an arrow, whichhe feels is fruitless, so slings the bow over his left shoulder quickly *and draws sword and buckler.

Hannatti stands prepared and ready to strike the first stirge that comes within reach of her or Aethul.

======
OOC: Prepared (or held) action, please

In reply to Hannatti (msg # 26):

Kirpich will gather the followers in as tight a group as possible, back behind the others of the party with the better defended ones, including Gunther, Tommy, Benny and Chunky on the outside. He will direct those with missile weapons to target hostiles well away from any friendly forces.

Balir picks up the pace and charges forward while screaming something in Dwarven, trying to catch the attention of the sprites - at least just for a few seconds.

OOC: In case Balir reaches an enemy, I will make an attack roll. IIRC I get +1 to hit when charging, so I make the roll by 3 - but there will be maluses from strige size, so not sure if I hit. If I do hit I roll 11 cutting damage (silver).

15:49, Today: Balir Ironhide rolled 16 using 3d6.  Charge a stirge (19)
15:50, Today: Balir Ironhide rolled 11 using 2d6+3.  damage.

In reply to Balir Ironhide (msg # 28):

The stirges are SM-1 and are really good at dodging.
On the other hand, they are also not a fan of being rushed by a screaming dwarf.

The nearest one to Balir evades, but their uncontrollable hunger draws them toward Kirpich's followers!
This message was lightly edited by the player at 02:24, Sat 09 Dec 2023.

In reply to Stirge (msg # 29):

with a crackle of green sparks, Marlena releases her spell, and 4 of the strix drop to the ground!

Under his helmet Balir lifts an eyebrow "Good job there Marlena," he says, and tries to clubber a stirge

OOC: Just try to hit the nearest stirge. Hit with a margin of 2 (forgot size modifier in text) for 10 cutting.
13:40, Today: Balir Ironhide rolled 15 using 3d6 ((5,4,6)).
13:41, Today: Balir Ironhide rolled 10 using 2d6+3 ((5,2)).

In reply to Balir Ironhide (msg # 31):

Balir bisects the giant insect!

2 of the remaining ones latch onto the back of a pair of unarmored
cultists, much to their dismay!

He makes a determied attack against one of the stirges attacking a Cultist.

In reply to Aethul (msg # 33):

Kirpich will ask Chunky to start grabbing the things from the backs of the followers, crushing them in his stoney hands, directing others armed to start to kill them as well while he creates a stone missile to attack one airborne, checking to ensure there was no-one behind it when he attacked.

Balir moves on to the next stirge, but yells "Do that again, Marlena."

OOC: Hits stirge (margin of 7) for 10 damage cutting and silver
11:17, Today: Balir Ironhide rolled 10 using 2d6+3.  damge vs stirge. – 10
11:16, Today: Balir Ironhide rolled 10 using 3d6.  hit stirge (17).

In reply to Balir Ironhide (msg # 35):

as Balir cleaves a stirge in half, Marlena  begins to cast her spell again.
Aethel slays one, and Kirpich  smashes another but does not kill it.
his talos ties to grab the flying leech, but it is too entangled with its victim.

OOC: If possible could we get an update on the battlefield, please? How many is left and where are they? How far are we from each other etc?

He repeats his efforts


15:49, Today: Aethul rolled 12 using 3d6.  Shortsword cut -determined.
15:50, Today: Aethul rolled 4 using 1d6+2.  Sword damage

In reply to Aethul (msg # 38):

Kirpich creates another stone missile, more impressive than before...

In reply to Kirpich Rockson (msg # 39):

Gunther carefully swings his pick where it will not hit any friends if it misses, but he swings well.

In reply to Gunther Rockerfella (msg # 40):

Benny also lashes out with his mace, careful not to hit any friends with his swing...

In reply to Benny Wormlord (msg # 41):

Tommy tries to use his crossbow, but in his efforts to avoid followers, he misses altogether. He then starts reloading the crossbow...
This message was last edited by the player at 10:14, Fri 15 Dec 2023.

In reply to Tommy Mason (msg # 42):

Chunky is also very careful as he seats at the bugs, though he has no blood for them to consume.

Matching her advance with Aethul's Hannatti continues striking at stirges.

======
OOC: Playing catch up (think I missed 3 rounds):
16:10, Today: Hannatti rolled 8 using 3d6.  Deceptive attack on stirge
16:10, Today: Hannatti rolled 6 using 3d6
16:12, Today: Hannatti rolled 10 using 3d6.  Deceptive attack on stirge round 3
16:19, Today: Hannatti rolled 14 using 4d6-1.  Sword cutting damage v stirge
16:20, Today: Hannatti rolled 10 using 4d6-1.  Sword cutting damage v stirge
16:21, Today: Hannatti rolled 10 using 4d6-1.  Sword cutting damage v stirge

1st attack Successful, MoS 8. Stirge to defend at -2 or take 14 cutting damage
2nd attack Critically Successful, MoS 10. Stirge needs a critically successful defense (at -2) or take 10 cutting damage
3rd attack Successful, MoS 6. Stirge to defend at -2 or take or take 10 cutting damage

Balir looks around for another stirge to cut up.

OOC: Don't know where the enemy is or how many is left. But if I can reach one:
Hit (margin of 4) for 13 damage.
21:32, Today: Balir Ironhide rolled 13 using 2d6+3.  damage.
21:32, Today: Balir Ironhide rolled 13 using 3d6.  hit enemy (17)

In reply to Balir Ironhide (msg # 45):

between Balir and the frantic attacks of Hannatti, the flying pests are destroyed!

of the followed, two are mildly injured.

"Looks like we got'em. But what were those stirges doing so far from the village?"

In reply to Narrator (msg # 46):

Kirpich will heal the injured, and suggest they all head indoors quickly before more come.

As for why they were there, that is worth investigating...

In reply to Kirpich Rockson (msg # 48):

While the Stirges seem more inclined to lair near swampy areas like the flooded rice fields near the village, the presence of a predator seems to cause them to head further afield for sustanance.

You soon arrive at the gate of the tower! The gate is how you left it, and you notice that there seems to be a little life in the tangle of dead vines that cling to the wall.

In reply to Narrator (msg # 49):

As in the there was something killing them that is gone, or there is some creature in there, however small?

"I interpret that as though we have completely removed the darkness that were in the tower," Balir says aloud - and rather confidently. "I will go in an ensure all is good." He strides into the tower without a care.

In reply to Balir Ironhide (msg # 51):

Balir, once past the gate, notes a few blades of grass at the base of the stairs to the tower.
You can hear a bird chirping.

Being a dwarf, Balir doesn't care too much about green stuff, but he does recognize that life has clearly won over death. With his usual confidence he strides into the tower, while yelling "You know guys, as a dwarf I should probably take a basement room as my own, but sunlight sure does have it's charms in this tower," and strikes up a hearty laugh.
As he goes in he starts taking mental notes on what needs to be rebuild and how improvements can be made

OOC: To help rebuild this tower what skill(s) do I need and can I take a skill point there? I have Prospecting, but that seems to be about finding minerals, I considered Engineering but that is only about inventing tech and is TL5 only (it seems)
This message was last edited by the player at 04:41, Mon 22 Jan.

In reply to Balir Ironhide (msg # 53):

There is also the question of the grove(?) dedicated to Grom...best location?

Perhaps Balir would be better served with an Ally. I could make one up for him if requested...

Yeah, I suppose we could just hire somebody. Skill points don't come cheap :)

"So are we actually going to get the Baron to confirm Deed and title of the tower?" asks Hannatti. "Or is that all taken care of and I just didn't notice?"
This message was last edited by the player at 00:09, Tue 23 Jan.

"No, it still needs to be done. I just did not want my followers to make the trip needlessly. Them starting on a place dedicated to Grom will ensure it stays free of the undead curse, by Groms power. We should head there tomorrow, after settling these folk in here."

"OK, Kirpich, that's fine. You know about these things and, to be honest, I don't," answers Hannatti. "I'm fine with you taking care of it though. Thanks."

SHe turns round to nab Aethul again. "Let's go choose our room." She wheels him away.

======
OOC: Actually I have no idea which/where would be the most suitable room. Aethul can choose if he wishes..

Aethul would like a room two or so levels up and with windows.  The top level has an entrance and stairs around the wall, which confuses me, as I thought that was was the second floor up from the ground. However no other floor has an entrance. A reasonable sized room on the floor above the entrance level or the one above that  with arrowslits or windows please. Now remember, Hannati is a woman so we will need plenty of storage and a place for her cosmetics in front of a mirror. Likely a small armoire for Aethul and two large ones fer my lovely intended.

Masonry and carpentry would be the skills for repairing the tower, hirelings could be got from Brouse.

the stairs wend upward from ground level to the third story above ground, and there is a basement level.
top floor was garrison and entry/audience hall;
 level 2  from the top was the lord and lady (and some servant's) chambers,
 level 3 from the top was servants
ground floor is hall and kitchens
basement was crypt and wine cellar/ storage
This message was last edited by the GM at 02:11, Sat 27 Jan.

So we will take the larger room on the left and leave the smaller rooms to other people who are not a couple.

In reply to Aethul (msg # 61):

Kirpich will want the crypt and cellars, and modify them to a home in the ground, close to Grom.

He will seek to move the Crypt...given the previous inhabitants.

"Double bed? And a copper bath?" reflects Hannatti.

So, if A+H takes left room, Balir can take the right room (on the 2nd floor).
Do we need to start/end some more business here, or are we ready to talk to the new baron?

In reply to Balir Ironhide (msg # 64):

======
OOC: IMO we're long ioverdue to see the Baron

In reply to Hannatti (msg # 65):

Likewise. As long as the plebs are settled in...

In reply to Kirpich Rockson (msg # 62):

The starmetal lining to the crypt could probably go for a pretty penny as well.

The  Gromelites settle in, and start sweeping dust, until they notice teeth in the piles of dust...

In reply to Narrator (msg # 67):

Teeth? Kirpich will investigate...

OOC: Balir thinks we shouldn't sell the starmetal lining, but keep it. We can make powerful weapons and armour out of it.

In reply to Kirpich Rockson (msg # 68):

Kirpich finds an assortment of long canine teeth- the last temnants of the vampires, which can be destroyed by soaking them in holy water in direct sunlight.

The cultists are none too happy about the contents of the midden either, as there many
bones of various types.

Hannatti suggests, "During day hours the midden can be dredged and anything therein laid out in the sun. Remains thereafter can be cremated and buried."

With the inner group only in attendance she says, "We shall leave the starmetal in place and not mention it to anyone else. We need to secure the promised deed and title to this tower as prmomised by the baron.Tthat needs to be our next task! it's been in abeyance for far too long."

In reply to Narrator (msg # 70):

"This is why we are here, people. Thank you for coming. We need to sanctify this place to Grom to ensure this curse, and none like it, ever return.

Some of us will need to go and secure the title. The Baron, as I understand, has been replaced."

lets attempt the consecration and then go and not split the party- although Snorri and Marlena could be left behind.

"You need any help with that, Kip?" Balir looks at the priest

In reply to Balir Ironhide (msg # 74):

Player not sure...what do we need to do to consecrate it?

We can leave the two behind when we do go though. Not a bad idea.

it would be a religious ritual, and default to Theology.

that and a lot of holy water or a bless spell...

In reply to Narrator (msg # 76):

So it seems Kirpich has the religious ritual down. He just needs a lot of Holy Water or a Bless spell. Can they make holy water?

I would be inclined to think holy earth for an earth elemental god...

let me figure on that.

In reply to Narrator (msg # 78):

casting essential earth and ten casting bless on the result should get you holy earth that should work on undead the sane way-"Dust thou art and to dust thou returneth!"

your crew can have up to 3 points in Know the words, bless is a good one, and you could make eaxh of them a vial of holy dust.

(create essential earth for 1 cu yard creates a fair amount of vials worth, but to make it equivalent to the mere gallons of water created by create water, it should maybe yeikd 1 cubic foot of essential soil rather than 1 cubic yard)

In reply to Narrator (msg # 79):

Ok, Neither of those spells are known, and oddly enough Essential Earth is not on his spell list!

So Kirpich will have to head into town for some holy water then?

I have two vials of blessed water... if that would help.

In reply to Aethul (msg # 81):

Hannatti looks on blankly; she can't help with holy anything.

In reply to Kirpich Rockson (msg # 80):

That would be the plan... moving everyone except for the cultists, Marlena and Snorrii on the way to Brouse.

In reply to Narrator (msg # 83):

Weeee aaaare off to see the wizards baron...the wonderful baron of Brouse...

In reply to Kirpich Rockson (msg # 84):

you pack up and head east to the iter and  then south along the roman road.

Hannatti is pleased for them to be on their way at long last.
This message was last updated by the player at 03:05, Sun 10 Mar.

In reply to Alastrine (msg # 86):

Do we need a marching order, or do we get there without incident?

Kirpich and Chunky in about the middle of the group...unless otherwise directed.

I suppose the slow dwarf may as well be at the front. He is a tank, and if the others can't see him (by being in front of him), they might move faster than he can keep up.

"Oh do stop moaning, Balir," says Hannatti, not trying to hide her amused smile. "You know you love it really! Well, guess what? We know it too."

In reply to Hannatti (msg # 89):

You get close to Brouse, and you can see that the flags have all changed from black, red, and gold to green, blue, and black.



the baron had a red and black checked field with a golden sheaf of wheat;
the coins had come in a green sack with a blue chevron and three black circles, like you see here.

In reply to Narrator (msg # 90):

"Did not someone say there had been a change? We will have to see how that effects us though."

Continue on...
This message was last edited by the player at 06:07, Sat 02 Mar.

"Aye. No pint in lingering because of a flag. Let's get to the baron. The new one that is."

Hannatti tries to recall if this flag is one of the ones they'd found at the remains of a conflict on their journey. Perhaps it was evidence of the baronial replacement.

As you approach the gates, a scruffy looking fellow in green and black hails you.

In reply to Guardsman (msg # 94):

"Greetings. We are here to see the new Lord of the land and pay him our respects."

"and who might you all be?"

In reply to Guardsman (msg # 96):

"We resolved the problem of the great beast who was terrorizing the countryside and the tower of undead."

In reply to Kirpich Rockson (msg # 97):

"Sorry but I don't know much about either of those things."

In reply to Guardsman (msg # 98):

"That is OK. It is with the Baron we need to speak and he should be aware of such things."

"You may enter, but there is a line of folk waiting to see the baron."

"If we must join the queue, so be it. Why so many folk?"

In reply to Kirpich Rockson (msg # 101):

"The Baron has only recently returned after an absence, and much business has accrued."

"Right you are," Balir answers. "Well, the line doesn't start here. We better get up to the castle."

You head into Brouse, and make your way into the castle.
You note that the flags flying are green and black, and the guards wearcthese colors as well.

OOC: It seems like our GM wants to stress something with those flags, as he keeps mentioning them and then stopping our advancement/progress towards the castle. I personally have no idea why they are so important that we can't just fast-track to the baron, but I have a feeling someone with a better memory than me should remember something very important, and that we may be about to be thrown in prison or something for presenting ourselves shortly.

Either way, it seems like no one else in the group has a better memory than me, so let's just make the next post about us talking with the baron and we will have to deal with the fallout then.

======
OOC: There were the reamins of a battle/military scuffle on the way here. We discovered some signs of flags involved. IIRC individual factions indicated by the flag (or flags) were not mentioned nor identified. I don't know flags in Grayhawk. I think I did ask somewhere if the flags here were the same as those we'd found at the scuffle but either the questions slipped through the cracks unanswered or else I didn't see the answer.

occ: just highlighting the regime change,and providing a bit of color, along
with the fallout of the changeover.

You arrive in the great hall, where you find a line of people waiting to see the new baron, who is a handsome fellow who looks quite a bit like the Baroness Loraine.
She seems to be absent, as is Baron Pequenaud.
A few of the servants seem familiar, despite the change of livery, and they seem to recognize you as well.

One steps up to the dias where the new baron sits beside an equally handsome dark haired man, and whispers into his ear.
His eyes widen, and he exchanges a few words with the servant before gesturing for you to come forward.

The servant approaches you and escorts you forward.
There is some consternation among the folks being cut in front of, but at least a handful sseem to recognize you as well, and make way for your approach.

Balir looks at his fellow adventurers and then turns and bows to the baron "Baron. Thank you for giving us a moment of your time. We come before you, because we have been caught a bit on the wrong foot with this recent ... change in power. You see, we had made an agreement with ... your predecessor ... that if we were to clear the old abandoned, haunted tower, then we'd be allowed to keep it and the surrounding lands. Well, the tower was full of vampires who have all been turned to ash now. So, with the job done, we were hoping to discuss where that puts us now." For good measure Balir bows an extra time after he finishes his speech, as he figures a little bit of extra respect might go a long way in the negotiations.

Hannatti nods and bows fractionally after each time Balir does so. She looks around for the (previous) baroness, or any of her ladies-in-waiting.

In reply to Hannatti (msg # 109):

Hanatti notices that among the servants to one side is one of those ladies in waiting, and catches her eye,

"I am given to understand your group also had something to do with the death of the Great Beast of Veroinge"

Indeed Your Grace, we did dispatch that as well and I believe Balir here may have the hide with him.

======
OOC: We're wearing parts of it.

In reply to Hannatti (msg # 112):

The new baron raises an eyebrow at this, and his eyes dart from one piece of slorn armor to the next.
"How were you able to slay it?"

Hannatti looks at Aethul and widens her eyes, leaning forwards slightly towards James to indicate he, Aethul, should continue the explanation.

Kirpich, who has been quiet and remaining behind Aethul, volunteers some information to aid his cause.

"With considerable aid from Grom, my liege, and we wish to build a shrine to him in the tower we have captured in order to ensure the prosperity of the land around as well as to keep future forces of evil at bay."

With Aethul as cover, Hannatti makes a small 'where is it?' gesture with her upraised hands and a slight searching movement, eyes widened for emphasis and then a glance at some of the wall-hangings made by the previous baroness and her Ladies (intended to indicate that she was asking after the baroness).

======
OOC: 09:12, Today: Hannatti rolled 5 using 3d6.  Gesture 10 (plus extra effort?)
This message was last edited by the player at 09:13, Fri 22 Mar.

OOC: I, the player, wasn't present at the killing of the beast, so perhaps Aethul or Kirpich would be willing to answer the Baron's question of "How were you able to slay it?"

In reply to Balir Ironhide (msg # 117):

Noting the pause, he will delve into more detail.

"I called upon Grom to protect us from fire. Then Balir, Aethul, Snorri, Marlena and a faun called Dionysus Dispatha attacked the beast. Marlena put it to sleep, and we were able to gauge out it's eyes. Once blinded, we surrounded it and fought it, weakening the beast but having Dionysus badly wounded in the fight. When it tried to flee into the earth, I called upon Grom, sacrificing all my strength to turn the earth around it's head into stone, and the thing then suffocated."

Yes, while Grom was a great aid, all of us fought it and weakened it a lot. That Dionysus was ultimately killed in that fight gives some concept of how fierce it was.. All of us suffered from the fight in varying amounts.
We also aided the remnants of the villagers and dispatched the Vampires that sought them out before we attacked their tower and turned them all to dust. We have left a few of our people to keep the tower safe and would seek to have any surviving farmers return to their lands, although many may be to scared to do that. It was a horrible frightening time for them and little remains of what was once a thriving community.

In reply to Hannatti (msg # 116):

The Lady's eyes meet Hanatti's and she discretely tilts her head.  She then cursey's to James and Percival and heads out into a side passageway.

In reply to Aethul (msg # 119):

The young baron nods in approval.

"My father and grandfather before him both fought the beast. It always came back, but perhaps not this time, for how could it without its hide?
Lord Gerald had been in poor regard, but his estates were sealed at the time of the plague.
You have lifted a shadow from our land... Who seeks to be in charge of this tower?"

In reply to James (msg # 121):

"We would rule it as a council of equals, Milord. I represent the church of Grom, and my people will man the shrine at all times. I will allow the other co-owners speak for themselves."

Hannatti offers, "My voice on such a council would be more than ably matched by my better half." She pats Aethul's wrist.

======
OOC: Would it be unacceptable for Hannatti to go down the side passageway?

I do doubt I am the better half, certainly not the most attractive half to be sure.

In reply to Kirpich Rockson (msg # 122):

"A council of equals...That is something that is complicated to adjucate in matters of real estate...
I have it.  Let a document of your fellowship be drawn, and the Tower shall be disposed to it.
 I shall grant you limited titles, without rights of taxation, but with a measure of duty to the Barony."



This translates to an advantage: Courtesy rank 1  (a perk) for each of you, and part ownership in the Tower; you have a very rare duty to appear before the Baron Annually.

In reply to James (msg # 125):

"That is acceptable. Should all of us appear before you annually, Milord, or just one of us? If all, is is permissible for us to send a representative if we are indisposed? Do we have to appear on just one particular day, or just once every twelve months?"

"A summons will be issued with adequate time to allow for any issues or substitutions. Now, if you would be so king, I need attend to matters of court."

As you are temporarily dismissed, Hannatti has her chance...

Aethul follows Hannatti, thinking about titles and no power with them. It will be difficult to control the farmers without some rights of a Title.

In reply to Aethul (msg # 128):

Kirpich will accept the decision and prepare to return, leaving early next morning.

"Well, that went worse than I had hoped, but better than I had feared. As I understood all that, we get no real land, but we also don't have to pay taxes. So, it seems that for all practical purposes the tower will be a drain on our pockets, but at least we don't have to pay money to the baron. I suppose that will be good enough."

Hannatti calmly and quietly follows after the lady-in-waiting.

In reply to Balir Ironhide (msg # 130):

"But we do get the tower itself, which may be used for business. You could set up a smithy there..."

In reply to Hannatti (msg # 131):

The Lady pauses by a staircase and then silently ascends the stair.

Hannatti follows.

In reply to Hannatti (msg # 134):

As HAnatti arrives onto the next floor, a guard who just nodded to the lady straightens himself up.
"And what are you about?"

He has been following Hannatti quietly, he speaks quietly now Following the lady as we were instructed to do.

Hannatti says truthfully, "It's about ladies' business."

With a glance at the waiting lady she adds, "You know that at a certain time in the month..? Will, I know about these things." She's relying on the general unwillingness of menfolk to hear about female problems.

======
OOC: Trying to RP a Fast Talk here. (Seems a fun opportunity rather than just rolling a die. (Fast Talk skill is 9)

In reply to Hannatti (msg # 137):

"You are one of the midwives? Then go, although your fellow must stay without.
 The Baroness is a prisoner, so I must ask you to leave your weapons without."

I will leave rather than embarrass anyone...

He heads back down to the meeting hall where the new baron is seated. He will move to the end of the line.

Before Aethul leaves Hannatti carefully gives him her inherited rapier, knowing that he understands it's irreplaceable to her. "Not sure how long I'll be. I'll let you know." She also hands him her bandolier of three small knives and one from its belt sheath.

Unless stopped, she follows the lady in waiting.

======
OOC: Hannatti also has a small knife concealed in each boot. These are 'forgotten', or so she would claim.
There's no untoward intend here, merely a rather strong desire not to be killed (and therefore not defenseless).

oblivious to the boot knives, the guardsman waves her through.

Upon Hannatti and the Lady in waiting's entrance, Lorraine immediately sits up in her bed.

Hannatti nods, moves closer and quietly asks, "Is it alright to talk?" She taps her ears and gestures around trying to ask if there are likely to be eavesdroppers.

She leans closer and asks quietly, "What is the situation?"

Aethul waits in line to see the Baron again.

In reply to Aethul (msg # 144):

Aethul rejoins Kirpich and Balir.

In reply to Narrator (msg # 145):

I was hoping to speak with the baron again. He has given us no power over the farmers and tradesmen who can do as they wish... not a good plan. I was going to volunteer to serve as bailiff to see that the baron's interest's were seen to ...as a Ranger, I already have some legal standing, just not so much in villages.

In reply to Aethul (msg # 146):

The Baron's partner, Lord Percival can be seen marshaling the troops, who are a combination of the long time loyalists and recent converts from the most recent baron's soldiers.

I can go speak with him if it seems appropriate.

In reply to Aethul (msg # 148):


Ser Percival pauses.
        : You there, Laird Aethul, isn't it?  What Can I do for you?
This message was lightly edited by the GM at 00:00, Sat 13 Apr.

Hannatti uses a hand to check the baroness's temperature and heartbeat*. "So how far along are you? And, honestly, are you in pain?

======
OOC: *pulse
This message was last updated by the player at 23:07, Fri 12 Apr.

In reply to Hannatti (msg # 150):

"Ah they are keeping me well, I have four or five months of confinement at the least ahead of me and could do for a little company."

"I could stay and talk with you for a short while but then I must let my friends know in person that I am alright. But perhaps I could return if you would wish it. Perhaps a note from you confiring such?

"If I may, calling you 'Baroness Pequenaud' is such a mouthful. Something shorter, perhaps?

In reply to Percival (msg # 149):

His Lordship most kindly gave us the tower we took from the vampires living in it and has given us some status as holders of the tower, but he did not grant us any authority over the probable returning farmers and craftsmen. I can see potential for differences getting out of hand. I have some authority as a Ranger, but it is mostly in relation to the forests and lands not developed. I wondered if I or another of us might  be appoint bailiff to keep the Lords laws and intents. It does not have to be me ... Hannatti is level headed and con use a sword if it ever came to that and there are others who might do as well.  We are several days from this place, so a local authority is in all our interests.

"If you can keep the place up it should attract some tenants."

In reply to Hannatti (msg # 152):

"Lady Hannatti, for yes I know of your elevation, You may call me Lorraine.
I  think you have earned that.
After the plague,there were scarcely enough peasants to work the land, and the barony was to lie falliw unless we made an aliance by marriage.
The baron was already afianced to his captain if the guards and did not find Baron Pequenaud to his liking, although I am sure Pequenaud would have accepted him.
I was willing,for the sake of the people and the land, so my brother relinquished his title and went north to seek his fortune.
The match was not as successful as I would have preferred,and my husband was cruel to those beneath himin a way that I could not bear. I endeavored to correct that wrong,which has lead to my confinement in this tower, which incidentally corresponds to my time of confinement in the other sense. I could well do with company."

"Just 'Hannatti', please, Lorriane, when it's just us," replies Hanntti. "Look, I'm not really a 'Lady', you know that, right? Not a proper noble; no blue blood anywhere in my family, so far as I know anyway.." She shrugs. "I came here not knowing what had happened. Really, to see if you needed help; you know, to escape or something. Didn't know this baron was your brother nor that the previous baron was a nasty piece of work. What will happen to you?"

In reply to Percival (msg # 154):

It is our hope to return it to te profitable farming land it was once. But I am sure we will need a bailiff as soon as we have two or three farmers.

In reply to Aethul (msg # 157):

"Well then, Laird Baliff, welcome to the service of the Baron!"

In reply to Hannatti (msg # 156):

The Baroness dismisses her other servants for a time.
"My erstwhile husband was rescued from his unfortunate affliction by a strange priest,
one of several strange folk he entered the hall with, many of them from far off Sahud, although one was Shevnian,
and another seemed Sahudeese, but there was something disturbing about him.
In any case, they bested a peculiar champion his wizard had found, and then made as to cure him of whatever it was that was plaguing him
Enough politics for now..."

"Thank you for sharing with me, Lorraine," Hannatti replies with a gentle smile.

In reply to Hannatti (msg # 160):

"I am to be confined in my quarters until the heir is born, after which my fate remains to be seen.
My husband has returned to his ancestral lands, and Godwilling, will stay there until the end of his days,
 but doubtless he will come to see his child's birth."

"Oh my! May anything be done to aid your cause?" Hannatti replies.

In reply to Hannatti (msg # 162):

"I am certain that my brother would rather leave the child,
 who is effectively his own heir to be raised by their own mother
rather than have them handed off to wetnurses and tutors as I am further imprisoned or otherwise dispatched.

"Is that what you wish though?" asks Hannatti, who then adds, "but I must be away shortly. There are people waiting for me who may be worrying for my safety."

In reply to Hannatti (msg # 164):

Kirpich enjoys the peace and quiet to contemplate life, while others are doing whatever it is they are doing. Since there are no commotions, he assumes all are well as he thinks about how to find a smith who may be interested in coming to work for him.

In reply to Percival (msg # 158):

It is that simple? No writ or signet of this power granted?

In reply to Aethul (msg # 166):

Aethul is given a writ with a seal, and a brass signet ring.

My Thanks good sir, I shall do my all to support the Baron's law.

In reply to Hannatti (msg # 164):

"I wish to have your company occasionally at the very least whilst I languish here. "

Balir is standing outside wondering where everybody went

In reply to Baroness Lorraine Pequenaud (msg # 169):

"Perhaps that might be easier if your brother were to issue a permit or pass?" suggests Hannatti. "Will you be safe from your husband and any of his other relatives?"

In reply to Hannatti (msg # 171):

"Thankfully, my husband will not come to see me, and the women who attend to me do not include his cousins or their wives.  For you to come regularly, perhaps a word with my brother would be advisable."

In reply to Baroness Lorraine Pequenaud (msg # 172):

"Good; as long as you're safe," smiles Hannatti. "Yes, that sounds good. But now I need to go and rejoin my comrades."

(Unless there's anything urgent the Lady needs, hannatti goes to seek out Aethul.)

In reply to Hannatti (msg # 173):

Laird Balir sees the others returning from various parts of the castle.

"There you are. Well, the castle is rather large; I guess I can't blame you all for getting lost in there. Did we get what we needed?"

Did he have any luck in this endeavor?

Regardless, he will also shop for the following supplies:

Wagon (2x Draft Horses plus wagon, LT137), $4680, (driver rides on, 4 wheels)

Leather Apron     $60, 3 lbs
Medium Leather Gloves (DR2*)
 Long Gloves     $35, 4.2 lbs  Hands and Forearms, 35%
 Boots           $80, 3 lbs  Feet

Anvil           $1300, 100 lbs
Hammer x 5       $150, 12.5 lbs
Pliers x 3        $45, 3 lb
Tongs x 2         $80, 6 lbs
Shears x2        $130, 4 lbs
Files x 5        $225, 5 lb
Chisels x 10     $200, 7.5 lb
Draw Plate        $50, 2 lbs
Fletchers Kit     $95, 4 lbs
Tailors kit       $95, 3 lbs for leather
Long Knife x 2   $240, 3 lbs
Large Knife x 2   $80, 2 lbs

Total $7545, 162.2 lbs
This message was last edited by the player at 06:59, Yesterday.

"Hhey there, Balir! Hi Kirpich! All ok? Seen Aethul?" enquires Hannatti as she approaches the pair. She glances towards the latrines half expecting to see her man emerge.

In reply to Hannatti (msg # 177):

"No, been out shopping myself..."

He checks over what he had managed to purchase...

In reply to Kirpich Rockson (msg # 176):

A smith (62pt) would hire on at $675 per month, 3 month minimum.  The other followers may have been serfs, but are cultists.

In reply to Narrator (msg # 179):

Ok, happy to cover that, offering him $2100 for three months, as well as the items above, under the understanding that any income he makes will contribute to cover the wages. Once wages are covered, he can keep half of his profits, with the other half going to cover his rent. Total cost for Kirpich up front: $9645.

In reply to Kirpich Rockson (msg # 180):

"Aye, I will sign on."

"I don't think I have seen Aethul, I'm afraid Hannatti," Balir answers. And as he sees Kirpich with all his supplies and a smith in tow, he adds "I say, you are quite the entrepreneur, Kirpich. There will be a bustling settlement around the tower in no time, if the rest of us can keep up with your spirit."

In reply to Balir Ironhide (msg # 182):

"Aye. Nothing makes things stronger to repel evil that strong trade, which invites strong defenders! Add to that the priesthood of Grom, and farmers will feel safe to return to farm the lands and see the tower as a place of good and protection once again. I expect we may have to expand our buildings to accommodate a smith though. I have the basic smithing tools here. I anticipate using one of the out-houses for him, both to live and to work."

OOC: Other than the stables, what structures surrounded the tower, including the walls that fences in the previous residents?