Outside in the Village Streets
This message was last edited by the GM at 17:40, Sat 18 May 2019.

Father Calmert steps outside with Althiof, walking a few paces behind him. The Cleric of St. Cuthbert's large mace hanging from his side. He wears the red and white vestments of the Faith, and has what looks like chainmail armor on. Once outside he looks to the dwarf. "So, the services, what do you need to know?" he asks.

Upon reaching the outside, the dwarf stepped away from the doorway to not hamper traffic.  "First, Father, I told you I would try to attend a service tomorrow.  Since that time, we've found out that apparently there are goblins acting as bandits along the north road, likely only an hour or two away.  In the morning, we plan to hamper the goblins' efforts, and make the road safer.  I still hope to attend the evening service at all possible."

Father Calmert looks as if he understands. "St. Cuthbert acknowledges the need for violence when its warranted, and with the funeral happening and the roads busy, would likely bless your journey, I know as an acolyte of his, I would." he says.

"Thank you, Father.  I will do my best to make it to the evening service."

Father Calmert nods. And then goes back into the Inn.

Althiöf made his way north and went across the river to the Trader.

Althiöf heads over to link to a message in this game

As the village goes throughout it's day a distant melody begins to be heard cresting the rise of the entrance.  Soft at first yet vibrant yet the tone of the singer implies that she isn't singing to only herself... yet that doesn't make her painful attempts at harmonizing any better.
"Muad'drin tia dar allende caba'drin rhiadem! Los Valdar Cuebiyari! Los! Carai an Caldazar! Al Caldazar!"

When this figure comes close enough in view, anyone can see that she is a stranger.  Dust clinging to her every inch and clothed in old loose robes that looked like it might have belonged to someone important long ago and a slight stoop in her shoulders do not distract from her oddly predatory features in her face.  A headdress of golden pheasant tail feathers and deep earthen rocks adorn her head.  She seems to be eagerly, and a little wearily, sweeping her gaze across every building she comes across.

As Yaotl makes her way into town, she first passes two farms (Area # 1,4) Both are small and look to grow wheat, which seems to be the primary crop around this area. The nights breeze causes the wheat to sway back and forth, and the chill in the air is totally different than your homeland to the far south, with a temperature of 57 degrees its something very different than what you are used too. As you follow the path further into town you pass a few more smaller buildings. The Street looks to be leading into a central area of the town, where a large building with lantern lights hand outside, and gives a welcoming vibe. You can see movement and shadows through the windows. A sign hanging from the building reads "Inn of the Welcome Wench"

If you continue to the large building, head over to the link to a message in this game thread. If you decide to explore the town, just continue here.

Korkas walks out the door looking for the horse's trough, heading over to that he kneels down cupping his hand as he drenches his face and hair with the water, wiping some of the grime away. Flicking his hair back he makes sure its braided back behind his head as not to get in the way for the day.

He moves to the side and just watches people walking by.

The village streets are busy with the morning hustle people are moving to and from, businesses are opening for the day, the light rain doesn't seem to matter to most of them.

Once outside, the locksmith stretched and enjoyed nature for a moment.  He was surprised to see such a bustle in the village on a day for revering St. Cuthbert.

He checked his belongings to make sure all was in its proper place.

Even though its was Godsday Not all the villagers followed the strict prohibitions to work. Although many followers did, most businesses opened just with reduced hours. Once outside you can see that a wagon with small casks has been left sitting outside the Inn. Sleeping in the back of the wagon is one of the laborers that Althiof met the night before at the Brewery. Suppose to have been waiting for the party the lad seems to have fallen to sleep, luckily it doesn't look like anyone has bothered the wagon or the casks of water.

"Hey, lad, take to wake up.  Here's a copper piece for doing a good job."

The dwarf got up into the wagoner's seat and took the reins.  He stuck his bow right behind the seat.

Virius climbs aboard the wagon and takes the seat next to the driver.

"If we're to entice these goblins to attack ... might as well put me in plain sight and hide the warriors."  He said with a wink.

"I bet these rough folk wouldn't think twice about ambushing us if they believed it to be just us traveling alone."

The cart came with a single white mare. The young lad woke and looked up. "Oh, I'm suppose to tell you, Thenai said to keep an eye on Boris, she's had him for a few years now and has gotten attached." he says. The young lad jumps down from the wagon and gratfuly takes the offered copper and puts it swiftly in his pocket. "Thanks!" and then runs off back behind the Inn.

Korkas wandered over to the wagon and looked at over, seeing where he and the others could hide. Shaking his head at the caskets, they weren't as big as he had hoped.

"This won't do. How are we going to hide the rest of us?" Korkas mutters and then looks to Althiof as he has an idea "Hey did you ask how many people normally escort one of these?"

"No, I hadn't.  Didn't seem important.  I figured we'd bring everyone interested."

"This is why we should have had a meeting yesterday.  I tried all day to get you guys alone."

"The foe we seek is not known for reason."  Virius suggests.  "If they are the type to waylay wagons, then they would do so with but two passengers upon it."

"The rest can lie hidden — under a length of canvas if needs be — tipping the scales should we be attacked.  And should ambush not be drawn forth ... good Hollen will guide us to them if path should be found."

Just then, Hollen makes his way out to the streets, and greets the others. Having heard his name he agrees. "I talked with Spugnoir more last night in the room. He told me where the ambush happened, I know the area. So finding it shouldn't be a problem." he says. Moving over to the mare he runs his hands along the horses body and then pats it on the side. "She's a beauty, did I hear right, the lad called her Boris, strange name for a female horse." he says with a laugh.
This message was last edited by the player at 15:29, Wed 22 May 2019.

"If it is adventure we seek, then let us adventurers be."  He continued, addressing the heroes in turn, making sure to meet each companion's gaze in equal measure as he sought to embolden them.

"Bold in the face of uncertainty.  True to one another ... as only brothers-in-arms be."  A gleam present in his eye that had not been there previously.  The call of adventure, it seemed, was too alluring ... its siren song proving too much for the young nobleman to resist.

"As is said among my people, 'A good plan violently executed, is better than a perfect plan executed next week.' "

"Not as strange as you might think."

"So, there's four of us then?"

"Six, counting the Suel nomad called Kossoth, and the Olman woman Yaotl."  Virius added.

With a tarp, the wagon will have enough space for three people to hunker down and hide if that is what's to happen. There are four casks in total in the wagon. Three smaller ones and a larger one, each are filled with water as per instructed. A tarp just happens to be laying in the back of the wagon too. It seems that the brewmaster had a similar idea.

Korkas climbs up on the wagon and looks at the larger cask pondering to himself "might be able to hid in this one. And a couple of people can lay down here, cover themselves with the tarp like you said. Two of you should be in the seat and one obviously sitting on the back watching. The rest of us should hide."

Korkas ducks down and shakes his head at the size of the barrel "Maybe if I was a sack of bones. Guess I can lay down here. We should get moving soon. One of us want to head inside and see what's taking the others so long?"

Hollen looks to the group. "Its likely the goblins know the cloaks of the Rangers, maybe I should remove mine until after the ambush, if they see the cloak they might decide not to attack." he says.

Yaotl runs out of the inn with a flustered look on her face, "Forgive me, I did not mean for the dream to take hold so firmly. My eyes are lowered to you all. If hiding in the tarp of this wagon is what is required of me then I do not mind but also a few of us could just trail along at a distance. Goblins' greed takes hold of their eyes before sense forms in their skull."

"No need for apology."  Virius offered, greeting the exotic looking woman.  "Nor to see eyes lowered, I would see them raised and set to task."

"Ranger you sit on the rear. Take the cloak off like you suggested. Can wear mine of you want. Tesh, Althiof up front driving this thing. The rest of us in back, under the tarp. Let's go." Korkas responds as he has grown impatient.

The ranger and Althiof have already posted. So you may want to redo your suggestion. I moved it along. You can still let me know where you are. With five different personalities this early in the game, tactics may not work just yet. Plus to keep things moving forward and not devolve into days of tactics discussion. Especially when it matters not to the outcome in this particular situation.  The goblins have a storyline happening behind the scenes. So they are not going to be ambushing today. Other things in game are happening behind the scenes.


============END OF SCENE=============
This message was last edited by the GM at 17:21, Thu 30 May 2019.

Returning to Hommlet

The wagon pulls into town from the north road, the Church of St. Cuthbert the first building the group sees. Standing outside is two Priests of talking among themselves. Some of you will recognize Father Calmert from the night before. He is talking to a Female Priestess, whom you haven't met yet. As Father Calmert hears the wagon he turns and greets the group. "How did you fare?" he asks.
This message was last edited by the GM at 17:23, Thu 30 May 2019.

"Fortune shined upon us. The goblins bandits have been eradicated. Though it seems they were being aided or encouraged by other factions." Korkas boasted loudly towards Father Calmert.

Hollen turns to his companions. And briefly interrupts the conversation between the Priest and the group. "I need to get back to the Ranger's and see where I can help out with the Funeral, I'm not going to say it was fun traveling through the rain, tracking Goblins to their lair, and almost dying three times. But it was an eye opening experience. I know now that I require more training. Its likely that Ranger Robbar knew this when he encouraged me to help you all. I'll take a share of the bounty from the ears, but anything else you all keep, you earned it more than I, I feel like I was more a burden than anything else. I should have been more prepared." he says. You can all sense that Hollen is pretty emotional over all of this. "If you don't mind, I'd like to take my leave from you all. I'm sure we will speak again since I'm staying at the Inn, and for those going to the funeral." he says.

Father Calmert nods. "Likely is the case with Goblins. They are far to stupid to organize on their own, who was leading them an Orc, a bugbear, I've even seen in my years Ogre Magi that have taken goblins and used them for their purposes." he says. The Female Priestess gives Father Calmert a nod and then steps back into the Abby.

"Everyone starts somewhere friend Hollen," replied Kossoth with a respectful nod to the Ranger, "We'll make sure your share of the bounty for the ears is at the inn for you."

Turning to the Priest he answered, "Hobgoblin."
This message was last edited by the player at 17:36, Thu 30 May 2019.

Father Calmert nods. "Yes, Hobgoblins are known to make great warchief's for the lower goblinoids. You may want to report this information to Rufus and Burne should you feel the inkling. Being adventurers from these parts they know a lot about what is happening around here. They might have some insight." he says. He then motions towards the wagon. "Looks like you came back with more than you left with. Must have been a good haul." he says.
This message was last edited by the GM at 17:54, Thu 30 May 2019.

"Father, what time is the service tonight?  Do you use bells to announce it?"

"You wouldn't happen to know where we could exchange a large amount of copper, would you?"

Father Calmert ponders for a moment. "The local Blacksmith may want to purchase the copper. As for an exchange though, You'd have to travel to Verbobonc if you wanted to find a moneylender. How large of an amount are you talking?" he asks. "Oh and yes services will be held this evening, You missed the morning service, but we have another at nightfall." he says. "The abby will ring its bells." he adds.

Kossoth chuckled lightly and as a result gently winced as it made his injury flare shallowly, "Those small barrel casks hold copper coin rather than fish.  Those others hold the same in silver coin." his hand moved to point between two of the containers that were solid enough to hold the coin they had collected.  It was obvious that he wasn't saying exactly how much coin was in them but the sheer size of a coin comparred to the size of the barrels would give the Father a rough idea.

He looked thoughtfully down for a moment, "I thought I saw a jeweler shop on my way in last night.  Is that correct?  Though I don't know they'd want to sell for such coin it would be worth a try perhaps."

In reply to Althiof Morad (msg # 39):

Ali looks about as they enter the village "hhmm, my my, a start here could aid my works."

Ali waits more or less behind the wagon as he surveys the village then rolls up to be by the father once the conversation lows down, leaving his mobile lab a pace behind him "Father, er, excuse me sir" and smiles with a lowish nod of his head "You are the high priest here or one in a decision position?  I would like to possible see if your wonderful holy church and grounds may have herbs I could trade or buy from you to aid in my umm work?  and smiles.

Yaotl spent her time traveling back to town sitting on the rim of the wagon studying the spell book to see if anything was missing... and if she managed to copy any of it's spell's down into her light stone beads on her headdress, then that was just a fortunate side effect.
Once she is done she returns to the group and listens intently to the father speak.  She seems eager to help with any manual labor that needs to be done with everything that we've loaded up.

Korkas shrugged "Copper and silver spend just as well as gold. Let's get this book to Spunigior and then we can count out the rest and see what we need to do with it. Might need a couple good safes to hold it all though." He looked to the Father "A tithe will be given for your generosity yesterday. Thank you again."

Seeing the priest, Storm nods in respect, acknowledging the man's superior position.
He listens to the conversation and at one point, interjects,"Do you think the blacksmith sells magical arms and armour?" He asks

Father Calmert nods. "The blacksmith's been known to have magical arms and weapons, but I don't think he has the ability to craft them himself." he says. The Cleric looks to Korkas and gives him a respectful nod. "Should you need the services of the church, their are a few acolytes inside that could bind and heal your wounds. If your feeling generous with your newly found wealth." he says with a smile.

"Ah thank you Father," storm says. "I am hoping to be of my use to my party than hiding behind while healing them," he says ruefully remembering his ineffectual attacks.

Father Calmert laughs. "St. Cuthbert would wonder why you are standing behind them and not bashing the enemy to death. Who do you worship my son?" he asks. Normally not a question someone would get, but this was coming from a Priest of St. Cuthbert.

"Currently, I folow the philiosphy of Might Makes Right where we seek to oust evil and the undeath,'Storm says humbly.

He then asks his companions if they should return the spellbook to the mage.

"Might Makes Right, sounds like one of the tenets of St. Cuthbert, although he also has, Hit them with the Cudgel if they defy you." he says with another laugh. "As for the copper talk to the Blacksmith about if he wants to purchase it, or like I mentioned, Rufus and Burne, they might want to exchange gold for some of it, to make it easier to pay the laborers that are suppose to be building the keep." he adds.

In reply to Stormrider Truesight (msg # 49):

Obviously dejected for not being recognized with his request to the father but used to it, Ali turns back to his mobile lab and shrugs "Best we do return that spell book before something else ill befalls it or we all wear away the ink reading it" chuckles

  Setting his lab in motion "I am not sure about the lay of the village yet but it sounds reasonable to trade coppers for gold, less to carry about.   hmm, too bad I have not figured out  the recipe to  turn lead into gold. sighs as he look over his lab as he starts to head into the center of town, "My supplies really need a refresher and this coins will help".

Turning back to whomever of the group is near, "By the way, were do you all leave you pillow for the night, I might want to join you all if that is OK"

As the conversation about this area's religion continues, Yaotl looks distinctly uncomfortable. Shifting her weight between her feet and glancing about as if she would be relieved to be charging down another worg instead of being in front of this man.

"That is perfect!" She interjects at a blistering pace, "You shall go see the blacksmith and I will take this captive to the inn and return the spell book. This will be done with honor, you have no need to fear."

She turns to Ali "Come captive man, I will show you where a kindly plump girl will feed you and, if you have a pillow," Yaotl looks over Ali with curiosity ablaze, "you may rest it there."

The Olman woman heads off the the inn with frisk pace and a beaming smile, as if she knew she handled that interaction with grace and suaveness.
This message was last edited by the player at 06:35, Fri 31 May 2019.

Father Calmert looks to the strange women and then to the others. "Sounds like one of you has a plan." he says with a laugh. Father Calmert wasn't intentionally avoiding the question by Ali, although it may have seemed that way. He was far to distracted by the Stormrider and discussing religion. Its likely the Father doesn't get to discuss such things with many outside of the small Hammlet.

Storm politely asks the priest what are the tenets of his beliefs

Sirius had been keeping his own counsel, content to leave the discussion to the others.  As Yaotl toll her leave, he excused himself and followed the Olman woman ...

Korkas caught up with the strange woman "Slow it down there. I'm the one that started this particular set of deeds. Don't you be leaving me out of returning that blasted book." he mutters after than as they walk to damn fast for his short legs.

With the party splitting up for the moment, the dwarf who had been driving the wagon all day turned the mare in the direction of the brewery to return the wagon.

Father Calmert smiles. "Lets step inside and discuss St. Cuthbert." he says.

link to a message in this game

Kossoth takes the time to head to the local jeweler to help break up the harder to sell pieces of treasure.

In reply to Kossoth Zan (msg # 59):

I am following my err lady as he follows Yaoti, a pillow talk is it and chuckles.

Korkas runs out the door of the in, only to stop in his track as he sees the sight. The rain was washing grime and dirt off Korkas as he stood there, and then he began moving closer first circling the bear and looking to see if he could tell what happened from a distance

"By the beard of Moradin!"

"That bear must weigh a thousand pounds.  How many did it take to lift it up?  The bear wasn't there 45 minutes ago.  I was looking at that area."

"Take a look for footprints or maybe evidence of wagon wheels under or near the body!"

He thought someone should run and get Jaroo, but he remembered all those stories he heard as a child of what happened to the one person separated from the group.

Whispering to himself, "This is how wars or riots get started."  And this was the perfect place for folk to get pitchforks and torches.

Korkas looked back and forth between the two approaching group of men, obvious tension was in the air. He debated on sides to pick, but he had no particular side he preferred, Father Calmert had aided him the day before though and he owed some debt for that. "Hey now all this rain ain't good for that armour and weapons. Perhaps ye may want to talk this over over an ale instead of beating each's others brains in?" Korkas called out towards the men.
This message was last edited by the player at 20:23, Tue 04 June 2019.

The dwarf was not in the middle, but he moved quickly to check out the scene before any battle erupted.  He in particular tried to take in observations of which he had already suggested.

Althiöf while checking around the base of the bear for any evidence can clearly see a trail of blood leading on the ground away from the bear and towards the direction of the church. From the tracks it looks like their were more than one person surrounding the bear though, and likely more than one that hefted the bear up off the ground to hang it. From the impressions in the mud under the tree.

Townsfolk have already started to come out of their houses to see what is happening. The rain continues to come down, the thunder echos across the nearby Kron hills, and lighting strike flashes illuminate the sky.

In reply to Dungeon Master (msg # 67):

Korkas moved forward to put himself in between both groups (R21) looking to both as he spoke loudly towards each group "Hey I like a good tumble as much as anyone else... maybe more. But let's not spill some blood today? Let's go inside for that mug of ale. Or if you prefer something stronger. I'll buy."

Father Calmert looks to Korkas who has positioned himself between the two groups. "This has nothing to do with you Friend!" calls out the Priest. "This has been a long time coming." he adds. Jaroo spits on the ground. "Only because you came into Hommlet and started demanding that people worship your god, the Old Faith was here before and will continue to be here. No one wants St. Cuthbert here. Especially a god that demands payment, and personal sacrifice." He says. Father Calmert grips his mace tighter, his white knuckles slick with the rain. "The Old Faith is no longer what the people what. The Old Faith has done nothing to protect them from the many wars this region has see, It's done nothing to protect them from Iuz and his followers. Your faith is unguided." he yells. Jaroo laughs. "And what has your god done, other than let its Priests demand the money from those that need it most, You make people pay to worship your god, and your god does nothing!, Nothing!, and now one of yours ends up killing my bear, MY BEAR!, Who I have had as a companion for years!" screams the Druid. Father Calmert doesn't deny the accusation other than say. "And your members desecrated our Church, and poured out curses all over the church grounds during our evening sermon. You started this war, and if we have to finish it we will!" he yells.

"Hey, it may not involve me but it does involve Hommlet and it's people. We have a funeral for a person who also cared for Hommlet and the travelers around here. Are you going to sully his name by spilling blood? If you both want good for Hommlet than you don't want this." Korkas yelled to the men, obviously annoyed.

Althiof daggers under his cloak are put back in their sheathes.  He the opens his cloak and removes it's hood, allowing himself to begin becoming wet.

"Jaroo and Father Calmert, I have something I need to talk to you about."  He walked away from the bear (to U16).  "I request a parley with both of you.  I have important information we should talk about momentarily and privately.  If you feel my words have no weight, I will get out of your way and remain neutral."

"Please, do not spill blood until you hear me.  Please come over here."

Kossoth was glad his cup was filled with water so the rain didn't dilute anything important.  Catching the end of the yelling he slowly made his way towards Korkas and when he got close _(R18) he simply let the one end of his double spear.  He wasn't about to add more talking to the argument but he might add something depending on how Korkas and the two sides acted.

Storm walks along the priest and stops when he sees his companions. He keeps his sword sheathed and walks near Kossoth.

The commotion down on the muddy street below drew Virius' attention.  He had been resting in his room after studying and scribing in is spellbook, but the raised voices of the holy men proved to be too much of a distraction.

He came downstairs and exited the inn.

"What's all this then!?"  He asked no one in particular, sizing up the situation.

He looked between the priest and the druid, sparing them equal time under his judgmental gaze.

"This is beneath both of you," The noble said, his voice authoritative.  "And it is certainly beneath the dignity of this fair village to see its respected elders act so."

"Would you allow your blind distaste for one another to so cloud your vision that you do not see what is going on?"

He paused for a moment to ensure they were listening.

"It is likely that someone has maneuvered you to this place — to this exact outcome.  You are being pitted against one other as pawns would be marshaled upon a chessboard."

"Would you draw weapons and see their plan fulfilled?  Or would you calm yourselves for a moment and ask the most obvious question ..."
This message was last edited by the player at 00:20, Wed 05 June 2019.

Storm weighs in using his limited knowledge of religion,"Sir Priest and Sir Druid! Both of you are well respected leaders in this town. Both I believe want to propagate your beliefs for the good of the people! both of you want the best for the people! Both of you want to do good I believe! By fighting each other are you not bringing pain to your followers? are you not bringing pain to the townsmen? Are you not destroying the town? I urge you to stop, talk and think before this beautiful town is crushed under the weight of the feud! The quarrel is long but nothing is too impossible to solve! I urge you both to listen to wish my companion has to say and parley before warring. To walk the talk of your beliefs!"'he says this with as much passion as he can muster..

In reply to Stormrider Truesight (msg # 75):

Ali stands back a pace, stating to no one but to have all here him, Well, by the looks and size of that bear, I say more then a few could have brought the poor bear down.  I see no true power in the priests physical strengths for alone it could have taken at least a dozen strong men to equal the bear.  Where I ask are the dead from the fight - how could the bear be hoisted up so quickly with so few in attendance? 

Hearing the others chime in Yes, do not be foolish, your both good respectful elders here, someone or thing is pitting you against each other so as to widdle the strong down and make the whole of Hommlet weak.

Sighs "Do not let an evil gain hold of your grove druid nor your church priest for if you both go to arms you will make the evil stronger and you weaker.  Parley and use your wisdom to work this out"

Ali then steps back to avoid any further conflict if it occurs then he looks about, in the shadows and around the whole village including roof  tops from where he stands to see if he can see anything out of the ordinary.  Maybe the evil is watching to see the outcome.

Father Calmert and Jaroo both back down. With the number of people stepping up and telling them not to bring violence, it allows them to take a moment to cool their heads. The two of them clearly hate one another, and the others beliefs, that much is easily seen. Father Calmert speaks up first. "You are all new to Hommlet, you did not see what this town looked like before the Church arrived. Before St. Cuthbert arrived and brought his divine grace to this village." Jaroo shakes his head. "You and your Elders, preyed on our people, we were fine believing in nature, and the old faith. You brought with you a religion that takes away the fortunes, and then when they can't pay you spread rumors throughout the community for others not to deal with them, you tell your congregation to shun them, ignore their pleas. What kind of God does that?" the druid asks, he is still keeping his head for now. Father Calmert glances to the bear and then back to Jaroo. "Now you know what it feels like to loose something that you love, your constant rebellion against our faith is a strike to all of our followers. You started this war, its not going to end over a few people from out of town trying to calm us down." he says. "They are right about one thing, we shouldn't spill the blood on the streets, My Acolytes are trained in martial combat, equip with weapons of quality, what do your's have, sickles, and scythes, shovels. It wouldn't even be a fare fight." he says. Jaroo on the verge now of starting up again is stopped by one of the men behind him. "Jaroo, please let us go, we can put to rest your bear in the grove. These people are right, we shouldn't fight here." he says. Jaroo looks to the bear and shakes his head. "This is not over Calmert, this is far from over." he says. The three then move towards the bear and untie it as gentle as they can, carefully lowering it to the ground. Jaroo and the others start figuring out a way to transport the bear back to the grove.

Father Calmert watches on for a few moments and then turns to the Acolytes. "Lets go back to the church and check on Brother Jaydon." he says. Father Calmert and the others start walking back towards the church.

[ Ali, Stormrider, Virius, Kossoth, Althiof, Korkas are all awarded 200 XP for preventing the St. Cuthbert / Old Faith Fight from happening. ]

Storm thinks through what was said. He feels that the church is indeed very extreme to have done what it did in ostracizing people who are unable to pay the dues and remembers the apprentice. He resolves to speak to the priest some day when he has more clout. For now, he asks his companions to retreat to the inn to discuss the next move

Korkas watches the men a moment and nods as Father Calmert turns to head back to his church. He walks over to those tending the bear "Perhaps I can be of some assistance? You got a cart or wagon?

The locksmith has been closest to the bear throughout the incident.  He looked to the senior druid, "Jaroo, my sympathies and condolences."

Hearing Korkas' offer and suggestion, the dwarf replied, "It might be difficult to lift the bear into a cart or wagon.  I think it would be easier to use a barn door or something as a sled."

Seeing his friends help the druid， Storm also lends his strength

Jaroo looks to Althiof "You underestimate the strength of me and and followers." he says. When the Priest that was with Calmert offers to help, Jaroo is taken aback for a moment. But then sighs. Jaroo and the others look up and give a respectful nod. "Thank you." he says. Another person comes wheeling over with a small cart, although large enough for the bear to hang over the edges. The four men are able to heft the bear and position it onto the cart, and Jaroo looks to Korkas & Stormrider. "Thank you again for your help." he says as he and the others start pushing the cart towards the Grove.

Korkas nodded to Jaroo "Sorry for ye's loss. I'm sure he was a good friend. Korkas watched a moment as the trio walked away and then turned towards the inn. By now he was soaked.

The locksmith hid his feelings well, with no small help from his bearded face, but he was hurt.  He was first to offer condolences (the only one, before the druid's actions), and he offered his best suggestions to help.  Nonetheless, the druid thanked everyone but him.  The druid even seemed to take offense at Althiöf's words.

Disgusted with the druid, the locksmith returned to inside the Inn.

Storm bows at the Druid and wishes him well. He will head back to the inn if his companions are

Virius too, returns to the welcome wench.  The rain had soaked him thoroughly ... a strong cup of tea by the fire seemed really good right about now.

Kossoth watched the two sides retreat to their respective safe havens.  He didn't have a proverbial horse in the race but it seemed to him that the fact that St. Cuthbert followers would have no problem killing another living thing and compare it to interrupting an evening mass and supposedly desecrating and cursing the place of worship to be out of touch.  If it were a real curse brought by the gods above or below he would have thought that there would be more actual hoopla in town and in turn they killed a living creature and strung it up for all to see.

Forget the politics of religion that was simply insane and it showed on his face.  With a shake of his head in disdain he headed back into the inn.

-->To Inn

==================END OF SCENE==================

Outside in the Village Streets

You make it back to Hommlet, the goblin still gagged and tied up, he is still unconscious, the poison having knocked him out. You make it the streets outside of the Inn of the Welcome Wench. Where to from here?

In reply to Dungeon Master (msg # 89):

"We should take the goblin to Rufus and Burne, or the town constable." Korkas remarks as they trudge through the rain

Virius nods.  "Best to let them handle it, for sure."  He said.

"I will take the gems to the jeweler and see what can be done with them."  He added.  "I still have one from the other day that has not been sold."

"I take it, friend Korkas, that this Rufus and Burne might draw some actually useful information from the goblin if it has any?" questioned Kossoth.

Looking to Virius he nodded, "I was the one who spoke to her yesterday and arranged the cutting down of those gems so I'll go with you.  Perhaps I'll be able to get as good prices for slimming down the Opals and Topaz."

"It is possible Burne and Ruffus could buy the gems without paying a fee"

"If you wanted to try we could.  I was using the excuse to visit her so that I could eventually broach learning the basics of her trade from her.  While my skill with leather is decent and for a desert merchants son have a good hand at smithing weapons I've been yearning something more precise and delicate...and far more portable than those two.  Those tools are far more portable than what I'd need in the minimum for the others..." he confessed.

In reply to Kossoth Zan (msg # 94):

Er, I would be willing to take the goblin to Rufus and Burne's tower, They may be able to speak to him and learn more from him.  Maybe Korkas can go too and we can talk to the dude in charge of the workers and see what jobs we could qualify for and start the investigation of who is delaying their building efforts.

Storm offers to bring the bodies to the church for identification and proper burial. He will be willing to do the rites.

Having rendered the last rites, Storm tries to find the wood cutters to inform them that they can resume chopping wood

UPDATE

Please use the Hommlet Village Streets Thread to direct where your character is going. I have closed all the other location threads and this will help me keep people organized. Right now everyone is inside the Inn of the Welcome Wench. Use the Streets to navigate letting me know where you are going so I can prepare the scene. Thank you.

Korkas & Althiof meet on the streets after nightfall, and prepare to head out towards the Moathouse. Having gotten the instructions to where exactly the moathouse was, Ostler was helpful in that matter. He also warned to keep a lookout for giant frogs, living in the surrounding swamp that's around the moathouse. Dangerous Frogs he says. The two venture off into darkness through town and past Burnes' and Rufus' Tower, and past the road to the Cemetery.

Proceed to: link to a message in this game

Doran Kron had traveled south from the Kron Hills along the High Road. He had heard that a group of goblins matching the clan that had burned down his home, had been spotted around this area. He wanted to further inquire about them, and what better place than the Inn of the Welcome Wench at the town of Hommlet. Rumor had already started to spread around the outskirts of Hommlet about a group of adventures that were in town for the funeral for Elkiar Rusman, the former Lord of Rangers of the Gnarley Wood. These Adventurers have been doing things around Hommlet, one of those things being the killing of some of the Blood Shield Goblins. The same that burned down your home, and possibly kidnapped your wife and child. Hearing a rumor now that the Blood Shield tribe has been spotted has given you new hope, and a new direction.

Upon arriving in Hommlet the first thing you notice is the amount of damage. It looks like rainstorms and wind has trashed the place. Many of the townsfolk are out and cleaning up debris and tree limbs. Some are patching up windows and other damage. Which is strange because the entire trip here, not a storm cloud was in sight. You make it past the central part of down and come on the towns notice board. One message is on the notice board, likely one that was placed on here after the storm, since looking around on the ground near the board you see most of the older messages all strewn about caused by the heavy winds the prior day.



The message tells you to meet this person at the Inn of the Welcome Wench, which is right behind the notice board. You can head into the Inn or explore the rest of Hommlet.
This message was last edited by the GM at 01:18, Fri 05 July 2019.

The wagon that trundled heavily into the middle of Hommlet was long and fairly narrow, with high sloped sides and iron bands reinforcing the muddy wheels. It was drawn by two mules, sturdy creatures that did not spare even a glance at most of the townsfolk they had passed on the way in.

It was driven by a bear of a man, hunched forward over the toe board with the reins grasped loosely in his dirty calloused hands. He was huge, not particularly handsome, not even particularly fit looking, just big in the way that livestock were big, thick and broad. The similarities did not end there, as the Flan had a great mane of thick shaggy brown hair that cascaded down into a big bushy beard that fell to the top of his gut, and skin like supple tanned leather.

He was dressed like a peasant, a thick dark green woolen tunic that fell almost to his ankles, some homespun hose, square toed work boots and a fur lined cap upon his head. He bore no weapon and wore no armor, just a humble knife at his belt.

The mules would have passed right by had the driver not let out a soft "Whoahhh" and pulled the brake at his side. With a grunt he stepped down and peered at the board for a time, and noted the wet smudge where the aforementioned groups name should be. His green eyes traveled up and over the board where he looked uncertain, even nervous at the gathering of people within starting their day.

After a few minutes hesitation, he ran a hand through his beard and straightened his bushy eyebrows a bit with some spit and his thumb, then led the mules a little closer to the Inn of the Welcome Wench.

"Wish me luck" he whispered to one of the mules, who had began to drink from the trough, then patted the animals dusty flank before he stomped off his boots and headed inside.

 The lone mounted figure that appeared upon the lane on the outskirts of the hamlet looked like he had fallen into a pond. His horse was spattered in mud as indeed, was the rider. A wet woolen cloak was draped around the hunched over figure was wet, but the hood was thrown back to reveal a spangle helm with a drooping plume. His face thus exposed, was one with full blondish beard in need of a barbers attention.

 The figure stood then, up in his stirrups that caused the sodden cloak to part somewhat to expose banded mail with a wide leather belt that held a large sword on his left side. A lance was tied to the back and side of the saddle with what looked to be the remains of a pennant that was as soaked as the rest of the man and his gear, and drooped.

 The figure looked now to the tower on yon hill, then the hamlet again, and what appeared to be an Inn of some sort. He sat back upon the saddle and came to a decision, as he turned his mount and slowly headed toward the hill with yon tower.
This message was last edited by the player at 22:36, Fri 05 July 2019.

 The Knight was led into the Tower, after he had turned his horse over to a servant as directed by the rude one in robes. Sir Standreen took the measure of the place, while he waited for the Lord of the Tower to make an appearance.

 Soon a man of distinguished bearing and garb put in an appearance. This had to be the Lord of the Tower. When asked if he bore a message, Standreen frowned a moment, but then remembered his courtesy. A slight bow. “ Hail and well met, My Lord. I am Sir Standreen, Knight Errant, once in the service to the Bannerette, Sir Beone of the Westermarck, Kingdom of Furyondy. I was caught in the storm last eve, and now ask for hospitality of your Tower.” He said in the common tongue.

Korkas took a boxing stance, seeming to focus on defense "Well let's see what ye got."


OOC: Punching/Wrestling rules from PHB or Combat and Tactics. I'm going full defensive atm.

In reply to Korkas Stonedelver (msg # 104):

Ali walks out of the inn, see Korkas - Korkas, It is a skip to the right then a hope to the left then shuffle your feet back and forth  chuckles and head to the Hommlet Defense buildings carrying the plate of food and cup of water.