As you approach this clearing you spot a rather sizable building. It stands alone built of wood and tall enough to house two floors no doubt connected by some sort of stair. In front of the entrance waits a man with a grin across his face and his arms opened as if he were going to offer someone a mighty hug. His red hair flows over his shoulders not quite matching the well trimmed nature of his goatee. He is well groomed and well dressed in a light blue suit. And he stands waiting to greet all of the newcomers, it would seem.
This message was last edited by the GM at 00:03, Mon 16 Dec 2019.

As your group gathers before him he projects his voice loud and clear. "Welcome one and all to Smith's Gambit!" He gives a quick nod of greeting then continues, "I am the governor of this here settlement. My name is Erret Smith. I am pleased to meet all of you. Thank you for making the journey here. This is, as you well know, a new outpost and as such, for now, only the city hall stands." He gestures to the building behind him. "Inside we have cots for lodging until an inn and homes can be built. Here to my right," He gestures to the board hanging on the wall. "is the job board. You may come here to find work or to post jobs. We have plenty of work to be done. We also have a goods trader with us who is glad to help supply, for a price, whatever tools and or gear that may be needed." He gestures to an older gruff looking fellow towards the back of your group who waves sheepishly. "If you have any questions please feel free to ask and again welcome to our settlement."

Corus nodded at the man called Erret and his words, then turned to the other three less well turned out triton that was with him here in Smith's Gambit. "Take our things and secure some sleeping quarters while I speak with the Smith of Smith's Gambit."

He approached Erret and gave a quick bow. "Governor Smith. Corus of Gathakana, I believe that you had word of my arrival? I will help act as a go-between for you and my people's enclave. I believe that there are many ways that we can aid one another and grow stronger together moving forward. How does one go about... taking some of these jobs that are posted?"

"I would like to explore around, so was thinking to accompany this gnomish woman Galenna on her explorations. My staff can act in my stead while I am out and can reach our enclave if any discussions need to be begun in my absence."

Izayah stood with his arms crossed over his chest as he listened to what the Governor had to say. He assumed, perhaps wrongly so, that the Gambit was named after Erret Smith. It didn't matter really. Smith was in charge and the person to talk to apparently.

He walked over to the job board that had been pointed out and looked over the options. Some were not bad.

He walked over to talk to the governor and overheard the triton speaking with him. "Not tryin' t'eavesdrop or butt in, but I would be fine to do that as well if she needs more than one protector." He shrugged, "If not, I'll talk about the guard duty in a minute, sir."

"The more the merrier." A short gnomish woman seemed to pop up from nowhere, no doubt from the crowd of people that had gathered around and started bustling. "I am Galenna, cartographer of the lands unknown. Nice to see such interest in the job I posted. Do you both have any interest in cartography? It's ok if you don't. I'm just curious."

He gave a small bow of his head to the gnome woman with a smile. "I'm Izayah Hamadrell. Pleased t'meet you."

He then shook his head bemusedly. "No, not cartography specifically...that's mappin', right?" He barely waited for confirmation before continuing. "I like explorin' though. Seein' new places, wand'rin' around." He gave a shrug.
This message was last edited by the player at 22:13, Tue 17 Dec 2019.

Corus is a bit taken aback by the appearance of the gnome woman.

"No madame. I have no experience with mapping myself, though I am skilled at tracking and survival on treks. I even spent some time on a trade mission with some wood elves studying those skills on land before I was selected for my mission here."

He looked at the human, "I am Corus of Gathakana. While I have studied the lore of combat, I find combat on land still eludes me to a large degree. I will do my best to protect any I am with, but may rely on you if you are a skilled land fighter."

"I believe my companion Astros will join us on this journey as well. He has is also a skilled fighter, though a bit wild at times."
This message was last edited by the player at 21:59, Tue 17 Dec 2019.

Izayah smiled at the triton when addressed, answering in his southern drawl of an accent. "Nice t'make yer acquaintance, Corus of Gathakana." He gave a nod. "Oh, yeah, I like t'think I'm at least somewhat skilled at fightin' on land."

He gave a shrug of his shoulders again, "An' as for your companion Astros, well," He gestured towards Galenna, "It's her show, but like she said, the more the merrier."
This message was last edited by the player at 19:47, Wed 18 Dec 2019.

This message was deleted by the player at 02:31, Wed 18 Dec 2019.

Galenna starts muttering and counting on her fingers, "Oh!" she exclaimed, "I just realized, silly me, that I've only the funds to pay to five of you for four days , or four of you for five days!"

The large solid form of Astros wanders into view. He's looking about frantically.

"Corus! Corus! Whence hath thou gone? Oh drat, such a bawbling place to lose a person."
This message was last updated by the player at 02:35, Wed 18 Dec 2019.

"I would like to join you all, I can hold my own in combat. I am a skilled mapmaker and can assist you in such if you need it. My name is Khaaven." This is coming from a metallic figure of slight build equipped with a longsword which seems to big for his frame along with shield.

"Excuse me." Alen said the the wall of people in front of him. When none of them moved he sighed loudly and began to shuffle to the side, freeing himself from the mass. He didn't see a point in forcing his way through, that never worked.

Heading for Galenna Keenbellow he paused as he caught sight of the others. They were... blue or metal, that one was normal at least. Catching wind of Galenna's statement he shrugged and walked toward Erret. Much as he wanted to check out the greater area he could do that on his own later. Though a month's pay for a day's work...

Standing in front of Erret he cleared his throat.

"Excuse me. You posted something about the perimeter. What normally tries to come through?"

Corus waved Astros over to the group. "Astros, these are some of those who we've come to offer our assistance. Miss Galenna here is looking to map the surrounding countryside, so I thought it would be a good chance for us to familiarize ourselves with the area by joining them."

Galenna stares slack-jawed at Khaaven, before saying, "A metal man! I... I mean... just sign here. And here. I'll make the maps, metal man.. I mean.. Khaaven, you just keep me safe! Sea-folk, you all can sign these. You can sign for your friend if he has trouble with our letters, ambassador. I mean... not that I'm assuming he can't spell or anything!"
This message had punctuation tweaked by the GM at 04:27, Wed 18 Dec 2019.

In reply to Alen Yaeldrin (msg # 13):

"To answer you, friend, wolves, mainly just wolves. However we do get sizable spiders from time to time too. No one ever knows quite what will come out of the Rimewood, though, so it's best to be on guard. Thus the job. We need help to keep the people who come here safe. There's a guard at each post around our perimeter. Each day your task if you take the job is to travel that distance and check in with the guards at each station. Depending on how things go, nightfall would be around the time you reach the last guard for the forth time. It starts in the morning bright and early. Are you up for it?"

Izayah looked over and down at Galenna when she piped up about the amounts and numbers of days. One eyebrow went up but he gave a bemused shrug of his shoulders. "Well, if you get too much interest, I can always secure the perimeter or hunt wolves. I'm a Ranger after all."

He looked back up as first a very large Triton came over and then a large metal-skinned, or perhaps a fully-metal, person came over as well. He quickly surmised that the Triton was the one Corus had spoken of earlier. The second one introduced himself and expressed interest in the job as well.

He gave each a nod of greeting. "Astros. Khaaven. Pleased t'meetcha. Izayah Hamadrell."

He signed whatever was needed after reading it over.

"You as well Izayah." Corus said as he looked over the document before signing. "I'm sure Astros can sign for himself."

Khaaven signs the document, "Nice to meet you all, I am ready whenever the rest of you are. Any idea on when you will want to head out."

Astros looks down at Corus and grunts with a nod. When handed the paper he scowls at it like it had just offended him.

"Why doth thou stonewalkers love thy paper so much?"

He takes the plume and signs with an 'X'"I know not what this says yet betray me and find out how well this parchment shall defend thou."

Slowly, a blue-skinned humanoid approached closer to the group that had gathered. His hair was silver and he had bright sea green eyes. His eyes did not move off his quarry, the man who had originally addressed everyone, Erret Smith.

"I would be more than happy to help guard the borders of this town, for such an amount of money" he told the assumed-to-be important and in-charge man.

Izayah smiled and then turned to Galenna. "Well, ma'am, it's yer show. Do ya'll wanna see what we can do t'day or head out on the morrow? I jus' got here so I still got all m'gear on me an' could get t'walkin' if that's what y'want."

He looked around. "We got four, looks like. Ya'll want one more, or go for five days instead?" This was directed at Galenna, but difficult to tell since he wasn't looking at her at that point.

The door to the town hall opened wide, letting in a flood of bright white light from the reflected snow.  Just as suddenly, a hulking shape moved to fill the door, cutting out the light as surely as if the door had been shut tight.

"I mean no harm..."

A voice called out, far deeper and rougher than any human throat could produce, it was more akin to the growl of a beast than the Common tongue.

"... and more pressing, I am alone."

Whatever was making the noise was huge, so large that it needed to crouch down before the door in order to speak through it.

"I am a traveler.  I would speak to the Matriarch of this Hunting Lodge, if she is here.  Or... I am sorry, do you not have Matriarchs?  I do not know.  I would speak with the one whose word carries loudest, when the time for action is at hand.  I can come inside, or if you are concerned this is some treachery, you can step out into the light and see the truth of things with your own eyes."

The massive shadow stepped back a few steps, and glaring white light once again flooded through the open door, along with the chill air of the frozen forest.

"Good my...." The governor was taken aback by this sight before him. "Why there's no trouble at all, as long as there's no hostilities of course. This is a settlement for those of all types and all types are welcome. As you can see we already have quite the variety. Who could ask for more eh?" Erret, who had run back inside the town hall to grab a paper for the potential guards to sign, switched everything he was holding to his left hand and offered his right to the creature before him with no hesitation. "It is nice to meet you, I am the governor of Smith's Gambit. My name is Erret Smith."

"We'll set out first thing in the morning. Meet me right here at first light. We'll do a five day trip. Erret has agreed to provide, er provisions. If you wish to have lodgings built while you're gone, speak to Erret, and he will advance a portion of your fee toward it's construction. If not, the inn should be open by then."

Tidelan signed the forms handed to him by Erret and paid little mind to the strange creature in front of him, he was a bit annoyed with his manners, as he himself had long ago given up on being accepted or considered normal.

He handed back the papers and asked the man, "When do you wish I begin?"

"First thing in the morning then, I will be here." after which he finds his way to the governor.

"I was told that you are offering to advance some of our fee's towards the construction of a dwelling. I have signed up for the map-making expedition which is to be for five days with a pay of one hundred and fifty gold for those five days. What type of construction and fees are you offering? I can also pay some up front if it will help?"

"Governor..."

The basso rumble was contemplative, as if the creature was trying the word for the first time.

"Thank you for allowing me into your hall, Governor Erret Smith."

The shape moved towards the door, briefly blocking out all light as he crouched to get inside and shut the door behind him.  He was a massive thing, as tall as the tallest Goliath and just as broad.  He was clothed in rough travel leathers, with a heavy fur cloak about his shoulders that looked to have come from the hide of some massive mountain goat.  The goat's massive head was visible upon his left breast, minus the horns and bones, or else it would have been far too easy to mistake the enormous grey pelt as that of a cave bear or dire wolf.  He had the hood of the cloak pulled up over his head, and a light dusting of snow upon his shoulders, but in the pale light of the Smith's Gambit it was easy to see that this was no Goliath.  His eyes glowed golden in the firelight, over large and reflective, and thick tufts of fur covered his shadowed features.

It was a Bugbear.

"I am called Lukas Jä..."

He caught himself, shaking some of the snow loose as he shook he head, and there was the faint jangle of rings.

"I am sorry, I am called Verbannt.  I am here because I heard rumor of work for gold coin.  I know what sorts of work a hall such as this requires.  I am a skilled tracker, even among the high reckoning of my people, good with the blade and the bow, and well taught in woodslore.  I know that most are fearful of my kind, and for good reason, we count many warriors and raiders among our clans.  It was my hope that my skills could find a home here, a purpose to set to, so as to earn my place and prove my value."

He had not moved since entering, but he turned now to see the job board beside the door.

"Ah."

A satisfied rumble.

"This one, or this one."

He pointed first to the paper requesting "Escort," then to the one titled "Guard Duty."

"This is good work."

He went silent as the Gnome, the Triton, and the Warforged spoke, listening intently.  He stared the longest at the Warforged, making no attempt to hide his confusion at the strange mixture of living wood and iron.  Only when they were silent did he approach, his massive paws surprisingly quiet on the wood of the hall.

"Do you still have need warriors and scouts for whatever it is you are about?"

He couldn't know which job she was recruiting for, but he seemed interested in any and all.

"Well, it looks like the little miss has her crew, but you are more than welcome to join for guard duty if you'd like. It starts in the morning bright and early. Make sure you get your rest. As for the dwellings, my good man, it'll be 50 gold to build a basic one then an additional 25 per room you want added. So for a basic home with one bedroom it'll be 75 gold pieces."

"I am interested in having a dwelling built., So if you will have built for me a home with four additional rooms for my entire pay for this assignment or at least have it started and partially finished by the time we return. Does the cost of the dwelling also include basic furniture and for one of my desired size how many fireplaces for warmth and lighting."

"After the one fireplace you get with the basic build it'll be an extra 25 gold per fireplace. But as for the basic furniture, even for one of your size, I'll throw that in free."

Verbannt's amber eyes went wide as the Warforged drew nearer, but to his credit he did not back away.

"Just like that?  A home here, and work to pay for it?"

He looked between the living creation and the man, incredulous with how mundane this all appeared.

"Life is like the seasons, in constant change, and we must change with it."

He almost whispered that, and it sounded more like a personal mantra than anything else.

"I do not know for how long this Guard Duty will last, but two rooms in a home of my own is more than sufficient.  I will take the job, and earn what is needed to pay."

He turned to face Khaaven then.

"I have never seen armor of such a make before, it seems like it must weight 300 pounds, and yet you move so lightly in it.  From where was such made, are you a knight?"

He didn't sound as if he believed his own words.
This message was last edited by the player at 01:40, Thu 19 Dec 2019.

"I thank you for the free furniture, Who should I see about what type of basic furniture I require?"."

I have some ideas on this dwelling, should I work on floor plans for it so we can use it as a location thread for later because I will be using it as a type of shop others can use for goods or information later.
This message was last edited by the player at 02:31, Thu 19 Dec 2019.

Khaaven turns his attention to the large creature. " I am an explorer, able to fight and survive in many conditions. My armor as you call it is very unique, it is part of me as is your fur. It was made and created when I was over 600 years ago, although about 500 of those years I was what you would consider as hibernating."

Alen took the paper and read it carefully. He did not sign anything without first knowing exactly what it said. So intent he missed the creature at first. When he finally noticed it he snarled and reached for his sword.

After a moment he realized no one else was alarmed, and let his arm fall. He was not happy, Bugbears meant Goblins at the very least. He didn't doubt he could kill them, but he did not like that one of their scouts so easily walked in and set up shop.

"Traps would be a good idea." Alen said talking to Erret but keeping his eyes on the Bugbear. He glanced at the other man and nodded. His appearance was odd but so was everyone else here. Maybe he would get the story of who and what he was out of him sometime.

"Off the paths to keep them from sneaking in. Two hours between check ins is a long time. I'd be happy to set them up and tend to them if you can provide them." Alen's voice had adopted a particular tone. The one other merchants would recognize of offering a wonderful deal, that just so happened to benefit the proposer immensely.

"I will pass on the home for now. I would prefer to build a proper shop later when I have the funds."

Tidelan walked up to the bugbear who was having a conversation with the warforged, although he hadn't much experience with either of these races, he felt a kinship in that perhaps they too weren't always accepted.

He hated that he felt that, so he interjected the conversing humanoid, the organic one, "Hey, you. So, it seems that we're going to be working together. I'll let you in on a little secret, I'm not looking to make friends, I'm here for myself. Just thought you should know that."

He felt a little bad for saying it, but the world had never treated him well, so why should he put any effort into it, even in such an inspiring moment like this one.

Astros stared across the room at the warforged. "What a strange creature, and 'tis able to speak, amazing.  I knew mine travels with thou rockdwellers woulds't be interesting. But thou all hast such a strange accent."

He smiled at the bugbear, it was kind of friendly and kind of "I'd like to try to take him" smile. Such a large challenge and so tempting. But he was here to watch over Corus and starting brawls would be counter productive. He had his charge and his orders and he wasn't about to shirk either of them for personal enjoyment. Perhaps seeing the huge beast in a fight would be enough, In time maybe.

Without asking, Verbannt reached out a massive gloved hand and clasped it to the Warforged's shoulder, shaking him ever so slightly.  He wasn't excessively strong, mostly just big, but with that much bulk there was always going to be muscle.

"Ha, I knew it wasn't armor!"

He rumbled, his fangs baring in what eventually clarified itself as a grin.

"What do they call you, does your race have a name?  Are there more of you here in the frozen South?  I have never heard of such a thing, but my rangings have never taken me much further North than this."

He seemed genuinely pleased, and then suddenly contemplative.

"600 years, when does your kind experience death?"

He had grown quiet at that, almost disturbed, for while his features were bestial he made no attempt to disguise the emotions that played out over his face.  Thus, he made no attempt had hiding his frown when Tidelan made his declaration, or his scowl when Astros added his barbs to the sudden verbal fray.

"Ettin skyejotun?"

He said with a raised eyebrow of surprise, the strange tongue even more guttteral than when he spoke in Common.

[Language unknown: "Ai sta Ous ni ac whosil derthulesall ureoutioushe!"] Astros exclaims.

He addresses Lukas with a laugh, "What tongue were thou speaking just now. Guttural yet with a flow about it. The name is Astroth. I come by way of the Triton sea and am new to all you Rockdwellers. I find the variety of folks most interesting."
This message was last edited by the player at 03:33, Thu 19 Dec 2019.

[Language unknown: "Tess ngmiit din."]

Verbannt said in the same language he had used before.

"What brings all these outsiders to the frozen South?"

Which clarified not at all.

"I had thought you some form of runt Skyejotun."

Again the strange word, though this time he clarified.

"Cloud giantkin.  Skyejotun are common in this land, and posses a similar blue skin and... arrogance."

That word was loaded, it appears the slight hadn't been ignored then.  He released his grip on the Warforged, and turned to face the two Genasi.

"I am Verbannt, a hunter and tracker from the..."

He trailed off, his amber eyes going far away.

"... from the tribes to the frozen South."

That had not been what he had originally been going to say.

"What brings you and the less than friendly one to this place?  I have seen the Triton Sea, and heard of you, but never off the coast like this."
This message was last edited by the player at 05:21, Thu 19 Dec 2019.

"I be a Triton so where else would I hail from? I hast traveled hither with a man of great importance and am tasked with his protection. He seeks diplomacy and relations with all thou rock-dwellers. Goodwill and such, and he seeks to perform deeds worthy of a discourse."

Izayah watched with narrowed eyes as the creature outside hid itself and then revealed itself to be a bugbear. He wasn't overly fond of goblinoids in general really, having fought against a Horde during the war he'd been in. Nevertheless Governor Smith welcomed the creature in so Izayah watched but did nothing.

He overheard Khaveen speaking with Smith about a log cabin. He stepped closer and afterwards asked, "Would ya require upfront payment for a dwellin' t'be constructed? If so, I'll haveta wait 'til after the cartography job's done, which is no big deal."

"Not at all, I can advance the funds for you so it can be constructed while you're away."

Izayah looked a bit surprised, and visibly so before he managed to cover it up after a moment. "Oh. Well. That's kind of ya." He smiled. "Well, I'm jus' lookin' fer the basics. One room with a fireplace, an' then a kitchen with a stove, outta do it." He gave a shrug. "Jus' need a place t'cook an' sleep, really."

He hesitated and then lowered his voice. "Does the store sell good-quality locks? Better safe than sorry I say."

"Advance..." Alen said thoughtfully. He shook his head suddenly.

"No. I would need about four rooms and two stoves. That would be too much to advance without a down payment. At twenty gold a day that is a full week's labor." He grumbled the last part to himself as he thought. Then he laughed.

"How perceptions change. That is over four months elsewhere. Erret are you willing to take half my wages till I pay it?" He said smiling. In his head he was thinking of a proper long house with a brye workshop on one end. Finally he aigned the contract and handed it over.
This message was last edited by the player at 05:05, Thu 19 Dec 2019.

Tidelan's eyes darted momentarily towards the triton as he spoke in Primordial. A language he loved and knew well but never really felt like he deserved to speak. Though, nobody here knew that, this was a fresh start.

"I'm not a giant, clearly" Tidelan said, his voice strongly indicating he considered that to be obvious. "You're taller than I am" he said and then scoffed.

"Anyway. I'm not here to antagonize you, I'm here to tell you that this is nothing but a job, to me." he said, his voice steady, although he held back any quavering as he felt how truly arrogant he was being to someone who hadn't offended him.

"You are also a Triton then."

It was a statement, not a question.  In truth the two humanoids were alien enough to Verbannt that he had difficulty telling them apart.  It was not that he was slow, just inexperienced with the races of the Triton Sea.  Blue skin was evocative to him of other things, and it was hard to get the image of runty Cloud Giants out of his head.

"Work, earn a place, these are good reasons to be here."

He'd expected a much colder welcome than this, he wouldn't have been surprised if his presence at the door had been enough to make the others reach for bows and blades.

"You will get no trouble from me."

He nodded, and brought his right fist to his chest as he said it.

"Then we are happy to have ya. As for the advance I can take half wages, but I'm afraid that'll put you further down the list. Construction may take longer, especially for a place that size. As for the traps, that sounds like an excellent idea."
This message was last edited by the player at 17:15, Thu 19 Dec 2019.

Tidelan began to wander away, muttering under his breath, a guilty, "You should cause them all trouble, anyone who doubts you" perhaps it was directed at Lukas or himself, either way he made sure he was out of earshort first.

Tidelan goes to stay the night in an inn before getting up for perimeter guard duty, next morning.

As the night starts to settle down so too do the people of this settlement. Tucked into the cots and bed rolls in the town hall everyone got their rest. After a while the sun started to make itself known. The long rest was over and the new day was about to begin. Some of the travelers would go with Galenna and others would stay behind to guard the perimeter. Either way both important tasks. They would each set off shortly. Was there anything any of the players would like to do before setting off to their tasks?

OOC: I need to pick up some traps from the traders. Depending on how many has, I'll pick up a couple each trip round and set them up.

Erret will be having Jessop supply the traps.

Sounds good, then I will have him pick them up in the morning.

This message was deleted by the player at 23:58, Thu 19 Dec 2019.

Verbannt had been too large for the cots, so he had unrolled his sleeping mat and set it up in the corner.  For a long moment, he had stared at his tent, but instead ended up just unwrapping his goatskin cloak and setting it down.  Looking about, he began the long process of taking off his leathers and cleaning them.   He spent almost an hour tending them with a cloth and what smelled like a strong spirit, evidently meticulously cleanly despite his bestial appearance.  It was strange, how little space he seemed to occupy, despite his bulk.  Tucked away, his head down as he worked first alcohol and then oil into the leather, he was so silent as to be almost unnoticed.   Only when he had meticulously cleaned every inch of it did he bury himself within his cloak and drift off to sleep.

Having finished unloading the contents of the wagon he had escorted here, Wightvale strolls into the Smith's Gambit. "Galenna Keenbellow?" He looked for acknowledgement of the name, then walked over to meet the woman. "You have coin and need an escort, yes? I am such an escort, and in need of coin. Call me Wightvane.

Cetus wakes from one of the many rough cots and has a look around.  When he gets to the notice board he stops and reads for a bit.

He then walks up to someone who looks like they are in charge.

My name is Cetus.  I am new here and seek gainful employment.  I note that you are looking for volunteers to patrol the perimeter. He says.  It is a request, but it sounds like he is giving an instruction to a servant.

"Howdy. Boss is with the patrol that just left," said Jessop. "If'n ya hustle, I reckon ya might catch 'em in time to join up. Folla' the road thattaway to the watchtower. Or ya could wait until we gather another team and set out for the second patrol group."

Xannan will spend some time learning the general layout of the settlement.
During that time he finds and reads the Job Board. The Guard Duty job stands out to him.

Xannan makes his way to see Erret Smith, and introduces himself.

Xannan bows and says "Master, I am your servant. I have desire to help your good people. Please allow me to aid in your Guard Duty."
This message was last edited by the player at 08:17, Sat 21 Dec 2019.

Thank you, Cetus replies, whoever you are.

With that Cetus turns and leaves.

>>> To the Perimeter Patrol

Smith returns from the watchtower, and goes into his office. He notices the tiny man offering help. "I'm Erret Smith. Nice to meet ya. Sign the contract, detailing our promise to pay and your promise to work, and this waiver, saying we ain't responsible if ya get yerself in over your head out there. Once we have a few other folk sign up the job, you and the lumberjacks can be on yer way."

Cael was a sour looking young man, with a face that said he'd been swallowing his pride from the moment he got here, if not before. Nevertheless, he was a handsome man, even if he couldn't hide his obvious disdain for the entire situation. He looked at the job board, and scratched his chin.

"Is the job for securing the perimeter still available?" Cael said to Erret. "I think that would be best, given my abilities."

Armed in his trusty chain mail armor and poised like the former soldier that he was, Jankar marched into the small settling after many days of travel. He had come far after he had heard about the rumblings of a new city forming from a passing traveler. As much as he loved the comradeship of the military, he knew that they would not promote him anytime soon. While he was an effective leader and talented warrior, he didn't take orders well, especially when they were against his personal ideals. He hoped that Smith's Gambit would be a change and that maybe he would earn his respect and establish a legacy here for all to remember for generations. He glanced at the board and then heard someone talking about one of the jobs he was interested in, so he found himself looking at a Monk and some other questionable characters but interesting, nonetheless. "Greetings, governor, is it? Jankar Ulmakina, former Ensign of the Alemakian Army. I trust that my military expertise will be beneficial here. I am also interested in the guard duty with the lumberjacks," he reassured the man with a proud grin and a nod.

"Perimeter patrol is always available, sign up here, you may set out as soon as you think you have enough folk to handle the job. Sign up here for lumberjack guard duty.", Smith says, handing the appropriate contracts to the people who asked.

He wasn't sure exactly what he'd been expecting when he had set his mind to heading south to the settlement of Smith's Gambit but this hadn't quite been it. The perimeter of the town was about right but the number of buildings was a disappointment. The lack of a functioning inn a bigger disappointment. Aside from travel, he hadn't spend a night roughing it his entire life. Fix loved his creature comforts. Needed his creature comforts. The current state of the settlement just wouldn't do if he was going to settle down here and since he couldn't risk going back...

Fix made his way over to where people were reporting in for various jobs. The place needed lumber by the ton. Guarding people was a far cry from his cup of tea but getting as much lumber back to this place as possible... and the people who cut and supplied said lumber he supposed, was critically important. It wouldn't hurt to start making friends with the menial labor force either. Once he was able to establish himself and get up and running they'd be his bread and butter suckers after all. The house always wins.

"I think if it's not too late I might tag along to see those lumberjacks safely about their work," Fix said as he walked up to man handing out assignments.

"It's not too late at'll, my friend. Here please sign these..." The man passed the halfling the job paperwork, "And with that you should be all set. I am Erret Smith governor here. Now please be safe out there and best of luck." Erret seemed to take care of everything quite quick has he had started to have a bit of a group form around him about the jobs, but this was quite fine as the work did need to be done to help get the settlement on it's feet. "Oh and of course nice to meet you." He said his southern hospitality suddenly kicking in fully.

"The name's Fix Liddle. Lucky Liddle, they call me. And the pleasure is all mine," he said, offering a bow with a slight flourish. "Worry not fine sir. Safety is my middle name."

With a charming smile and a parting nod he turned and made his way off to join the group set to escort the lumberjacks. Not his idea of a good time but he needed capital and he needed it fast. Riding along with the lumberjacks might just kill two birds with one stone as well as they could be a good group to get in good graces with. Perhaps they'd remember his presence at least attempting to protect them and cut him a nice discount on lumber. He was going to need a lot of lumber for his own personal abode and his future establishment. All things going his way it'd be the biggest building in town.

Though what would become a bustling town was already pretty busy in and of itself, with such gathered folk and eager workers signing up to earn their keep, there was no missing the sound that came from out the road.  The steady clomp of hooves along hard, chill-packed earth, the rhythmic clang and clap like sharp metal drums, and a remarkably sweet voice that carried on the cold wind long before its source could be seen.

Ucat udir,
ucat umom.
Otin netak o~o~otin nasho~n.
Rash numol li~~bash thol~.

So black the beer,
so sweet the wine~.
Die lonely with your pick
so deep in the mine~.

Hardly a cheerful song in lyric, but plenty cheerful in tone as a young woman's voice chimed out, clear and bright as a bell.  A traveling song to pass the time while she clapped her palms against her own breastplate for percussion, keeping rhythm right along with the trotting tempo of horse's hooves.  Though nearer the song came, it revealed in short order that it was not a rider occupying herself on a trek, but a towering Centaur woman in gleaming, silvery Dwarven armor trotting up the path.  Her equine form steamed in the cold air beneath her winter layers, though she hardly seemed bothered by the snowy environment as she made her way along past the gates.  It was no surprise at all that she drew quite a few odd stares as she cantered along for what stood as town hall; the Centaur needed to stoop low through the doors and ignored the creak of the floorboards objecting to her weight as she shuffled inside, careful not to bowl anyone over in the process.

"Pardon me... oops, excuse me please.  On your left, sir." she excused herself amid passerby moving in and out of the building as she looked about, though she brightened at the sight of the governor himself handing out paperwork.  "Ah!  Governor Smith~!  Hello sir, I'm the representative from the Defthammer Clan~!" the Centaur announced herself as bright and brassy as could be overhead of the gathered crowd.  "Do you have a moment, sir?"

Cael sighed, and quickly signed the contract for the perimeter defense.

"Alright, that should be that," he said to Erret. "Oh, yes, nice to meet you. I'm Cael Stonebrook. I've a trick or two up my sleeve, so I should be able to make sure this town is safe."

He stopped and asked the man. "Just a quick question, but what sorts of things usually threaten this area?"

"Not a problem m'dear." Erret spoke with quite looking up yet. "Wolves and spiders mostly." He answered about the question asked of him. Then he turned and looked up. "My dear girl, you're a horse folk, a centaur. That's just wonderful." He said genuinely pleased to see her. "I've had many dealns' with those of your kind and those you're representing, but I never thought I'd see one come here. How great the diversity here keeps growing. Oh and where are my manners? I am governor Erret Smith. Pleased to meet you."

At his introduction, the Centaur offered out a hand to shake, though Erret might've been ill-advised to accept the gesture.  No sooner might he have taken it than he'd have her hands clasped about his to enthusiastically shake and risk lifting him right out of his chair.  "Adalheida Defthammer, sir~!  It's wonderful to make your acquaintance."  she was quite the ray of sunshine to contend with - certainly a bigger than life sort both in demeanor and stature.  All the same she quickly tucked into a pack belt slung about her humanoid waist and produced a thickly bundled letter to offer down to Erret.  A hefty bit of documentation sealed with the Defthammer's clan symbol - a stylized mallet and horseshoe emblem - to ensure it was read only by the one it was intended for.

"Here, this is for you; it's copies of the trade agreement and contracts from the clan leader - Greatgrandfather Almar Defthammer - for your records.  He said something about there being a personal letter in there for you as well." she handed over the bundle with a smile.  "So~!  I've been assigned here to lay the groundwork for our clan's workshop ahead of the rest arriving.  If there's anything I can do to help out around the settlement in the meantime, don't hesitate to ask, sir - I'm happy to help."

Erret happily took the centaur's hand and shook, even with her nearly lifting him off the ground. "Well, m'dear I have two jobs currently open. One is guarding the settlement's lumberjacks so they can bring us back some lumber or patrol duty to keep our perimeter safe. Which sounds more interesting to you?" Erret waits for her answer then hands her the paperwork for the job she chose and says, "Sign these please and best of luck."

"Oh, I'll help the lumberjacks then.  Escorting workers runs in the family, and I'll probably be able to help them carry an extra load of lumber to boot~."  Having a horse-bodied helper was certainly bound to be a boon for the settlement when it came to the inevitable task of heavy hauling.  Adalheida was quick to put down her signature on the forms, wish the governor a pleasant parting, and canter off to meet those she'd be working alongside in short order.  One had to put their best hoof forward on a new job, after all!

Adalheida signs up for the Lumberjack Guard Duty
This message was last edited by the player at 04:27, Tue 24 Dec 2019.

Cael nods to Erret, watching the centaur as she enters and goes about her business. He signed the paperwork.

"Very well, I shall be off, then." And with that, he heads off to guard duty.

OOC: Cael signs up for the perimeter guard.

A man in his 30s enters the town hall. He brushes a strain of his dark hair out of his face, revealing an eye patch covering his left eye and shakes the snow off his shoulders. Heavy boots echo through the hall as he approaches the fire and warms his hands for a couple of minutes "It's not easy to get here. You'd have thought someone would try and claim some warmer spots as their own." he mentions to no one in particular.
Finally he turns around and looks at those present, bowing his head to Erret Smith "Are you the local leader? I am Dorian Stornward and have heard of your plan to civilize this region. Are you in need of someone who can swing a sword? I've read you need someone to secure the perimeter, I am you man."

Smith greets the one-eyed man with a wide, friendly grin, "I'm Smith! Pleased ta meetcha! What you have heard and read is true! We're waiting for enough to fill a second patrol group, we can sign you up now so you're ready to go as soon as that happens!"
This message was last edited by the GM at 05:09, Fri 27 Dec 2019.

Dorian smiles back at the man “You can sign me up then. Is there a place to rest here or is the town hall the only place to shelter from the snow and cold?” He waits for his answer before continuing “How about the locals? Have you had any troubles with them?”

A mule glistening with sweat hastily pulled a dark snow-covered cart into the settlement with a hooded figure in the driver's seat. The side read in clear white letters:"Alchemist and Apothecary". The figure got off the cart, standing about 5.5 feet tall, threw back his hood and revealed the black and white feathers and beak of a kenku, his left claw appearing withered and bone white and the white feathers forming a mask. The kenku examined the mule's legs and then the cart, patting the mule on the back once he was satisfied neither had suffered during his hasty retreat from the wolves earlier in his travels.
He carefully tied up his mule and cart, home away from home and doubling as his shop if he wasn't looking for materials, before entering the town hall.
Glancing around he quickly spotted the job board. Until his shop was stocked up he'd need to make a living otherwise.
"Point me to tha enemy!", he exclamated in a deep dwarven voice, the man it had belonged to long dead to a goblin horde since Boneclaw had adopted his voice.
"Those filthy rats!", he added with the voice of a fishmonger for good measure. The poor man had died of the plague a few days later.
This message was last edited by the player at 13:32, Fri 27 Dec 2019.

"This here is the only shelter available so far, though there is Jessop's shop next door. As soon as the lumberjacks get back with their lumber they should be working on building an inn. As for locals, you're lookn' at'm. This land was clear and abandoned when I found it. Considering it's location to Tempest Bay I figured it'd be a good place to set up shop. Though there are some critters who like to peak out of the Rimewood and cause mischief every now and again, thus the patrol." Erret had been moving from job board to inside the town hall and back again. The cold didn't seem to bother him much. Perhaps he was used to it? Perhaps there was another reason? Either way he was right, this area did seem perfect for him. "Please enjoy the fire as we wait for the rest to show up for the patrol."

"T'is but a scratch", Boneclaw said softly as he pointed at Dorian's eye, and followed with:"Ye should 'ave tha' looked after by a healer" in an altogether different voice.
"Looking for a good time, sailor? I'm looking for some company", he asked Dorian in a sultry female voice as he tilted his head.

Odilon walked into the Town Hall, kicking the snow off his boots at the door. His silver blue eyes began to sweep the interior of the hall, the light dancing over the crows feet that surrounded eyes and the deep wrinkles of his forehead. He used his free hand to lower the hood of his cloak, revealing his long wispy white hair, and then brushed the snow off his shoulders with that same hand. He was dressed in a basic set of travelers clothes, white and gray, but overtop of that was a nicely maintained set of scale mail, and on his arm hung a round shield emblazoned with the symbol of his god Hyx, the God of Hearth, Travelers, Good Cheer, and Warmth.

"Ah..." he said as he saw Erret moving about inside the hall. He approached the man and held out his hand, "You must be Erret Smith, I am Odilon. but please call me Odi." his voice was low, friendly, with only a hint of the rasp that came with long hours working around dust and dirt, as well as old age.

Smith shakes Odilon's hand with a smile. "Yep, I'm Smith, Pleased to meetcha, Odi."

Boneclaw waved at Odilon and greeted him in Erret's voice:"Pleased to meetcha, Odi".

Odi looked to Boneclaw and nodded, "Nice to meet you as well." it was the first time Odilon had seen one of his kind before, but he did not cast judgement as he was more the kind to judge a person by their actions than by rumor or tales.

He then returned his attention to Erret. "I have traveled here with the blessings of my guild, and my lord Hyx. I have intentions of settling here and building a tavern temple. I'd make myself useful to pay for the necessary land and supplies. I see you are recruiting to assist in the protection of a group of Lumberjacks, I'd like to join"

Boneclaw wrote his name on the job board and signed up for perimeter guard.

Dorian”s remaining eye focuses on the oversized crow and nods his head  slowly“Well, I’m not sure if I’ll get used to your voices but as long as you can fight you’re welcome to join.” Next he looks at Odilon “I guess the three of us will walk together for some time. Are you any good in a fight? I’m better on horseback but I’m missing a horse.”

Smith says, "Well, the lumberjacks are leaving shortly, but they have room for one more. If you hurry, you can catch them, or you can join these folks for perimeter duty."

Odilon looked to Dorian and Boneclaw, "I believe my calling is with the protection of these lumberjacks, I am sure Hyx will have us toast good cheer together in the future" he then nodded to each of them and looked back to Erret, "I'll catch up with them. Is there any paperwork to be signed?"

Smith hands over the paperwork, "Yup, just a standard contract, and a liability waiver. Good luck!"

Odilon signs the necessary paperwork with his layman level writing skills then nods to Errett, "I am sure this is just the beginning of our working together Smith, I'll be on my way" he then turns, once more nods to the other two in the room, then heads out to join the others protecting the lumberjacks.

The Door to the Town hall opened revealing a Dwarf, Chain Armour peeking out from below a heavy cloak in one hand he holds the head of a warhammer like it is a walking stick.
"Who is Smith? I hear there is work for the willing?"

Smith greeted the dwarf with a smile, saying, "I'm Smith, and you heard right! We're in need of bodies to fill out a patrol group. Just sign the contract and the liability waiver, and they'll be ready to go when you are!"

"We're in need of bodies", Boneclaw repeated in Smith's voice and nodded to Hanto:"Pleased to meetcha".
He pointed out Dorian, Cael and himself.
"Point me to tha enemy!", he exclamated in a deep dwarven voice.

Hanto gestured for the documents and signed with a flourish "Hopefully there will be no enemy to point you at, the name is Hanto"

A slender elf strolls into the building, his messy hair dappled with snow. A small shiver suggests that he is not acclamated to the current climate, but he strides confidently to the congregated group. After observing for a moment, he extends a hand. "You must be Jessop. I'm called Sai, and it seems you're looking for perimeter guards. I'm in need of some coin, and I know how to use this." He pats the rapier at his side with familiarity.

Smith looks up at the elf, and says with a chuckle, "Jessop Shmidt sells goods, I'm Erret Smith, and pleased to meetcha, Sai. Sign up for the job, there's a group right here about to head out!" He hands over the contract and liability waiver, and points at the quill in the inkpot.

"Ah, of course! Pardon me, as I'm new in these parts. Let's see," the elf trails off as he scans the contract. With a curt nod, he signs the paper with an elaborate signature, then turns to the others. "And are you the one's I'll be patrolling with? The name's Sai. It's a pleasure."

Dorian nods at his new companions and fixes his one good eye on the elf “I hope you know how to fight lad, if we’re lucky we’ll only encounter wolves.”

Outside of town, beyond the hussle and bustle came a wagon with one passenger. The coahmen drop down and grab said passenger rather forcibly out of his wagon,"Here's your destination you bum." and he throws a high elf, wearing a green robe, towards the Smith's Gambit,"Next time, pay your good damn rent." and the coachmen ride's off.

Enialis rises from his position and has a smug look right now,"Just as planned, Fion is this the right place.", as he said that, a hawk perch on top of the sign glides down towards it's master, giving him a curt nod,"Atta girl, well, let's not keep them waiting shall we." and he heads to the door, but he hesitates for awhile, a bit unsure to proceed. He did alot of planning to get here, considering his financial problems it took a lot of effort, and he made it to his destination, yet his still unsure about all of this. Fion perch on his shoulder, pecks on him gently and gestured for him to move. The high elf, feeling supported gives a nod and opens the door,"Uhm, hello is this the right place for an adventurer like myself to build a community." he saids nervously.
This message was last edited by the player at 10:04, Mon 13 Jan 2020.

As the commercial coach off loads, Dominic exits it, a bit under dressed for the weather is his satins. He shivers a bit while seeing the shingles hanging from the building eaves. The Coachman calls down, "Your pack, Sir." He tosses down a pack which Dominic catches and shrugs into, "My thanks, and thank you for the safe journey." Failing to see anything he recognizes as a haberdasher, Dominic start with the single displaying 3 balls in the corner, and enters Jessop's.

"Why yes it is, my good man." A man with long red hair and a nicely trimmed goatee approaches the elf. "Welcome to Smith's Gambit. I'm Erret Smith, governor of this here place or at least the beginins' of it." Erret was well dressed in his blue suit and welcoming smile.

"Greetings governor, my name is Enialis Siannodel, I'm a student from the College of Wizardry, currently traveling across the world and I've just heard tale of a settlement in need..." he contemplates for a bit and spoke,"So I've traveled here to help your people, not cause I'm out of financial expenses but I believe that this can improve my magic abilities, so do you accept my services, governor."

"We are always happy to have another set of hands. Did any of the jobs on our board catch your interest?"

Dominic stops at the job board outside of the Hall and eyes the two postings, then shrugs and enters the building. He enters and looks around until he sees someone that acts like he runs things...then looks closer to see if anyone looks like he might really be in charge. He settles for the one that acts like he is. After all, you never know..he might be. "Excuse me, could you tell me where to find a Mr. Smith? That was the name on the posting outside the door, I believe?"

Enialis tries to remember the job board outside for awhile when Dominic appeared,"Hmm, oh well this man I'm speaking would be Mister Smith, and I would like to pick the perimeter patrol job if you don't mind. My hawk, Fion has a keen eye for scouting so I won't have any issue, governor." as he said her name, Fion fly's off Enialis shoulder and circles around the building to look impressive.

"Yes I would be Smith, Governor Erret Smith. And Perimeter Patrol happy to have ya."

Dominic look towards Smith, "I'm interested, of course, but I have a question or two: What is the pay? What is the cost of basic living expenses? And, finally, may we keep what we kill? I noticed a fur bounty on the other posting."

Shadows are funny things; they look tangible, like you could reach right out and grab it. But they are instead a simple mixture of light and darkness, at least one would expect such a thing to be simple but in fact, shadows were far more complex than one would initially think. And there within the shadows a figure lurked, how long exactly was anyone’s guess, but for the man himself he was like a statue unmoving blending into the shadows as if the intangible had in fact become tangible fabric that wound around him like swathes of cloth.

The figures deep green eyes roved over the others, simply watching, watching and waiting. His eyes narrowed slightly as he gauged each of the individuals around him, the cowl of his cloak and the wrap about his features made him look sinister as those few glances that could breach the shadows and notice him, for surely he was some assassin or bounty hunter looking for some runaway who had come to this wild frontier to escape some sword of Damocles hanging over them.

Fayne’s eyes narrowed as he stared at Enialis, and then turned to Dominic, before settling on Erret. His hand slid down to a short sword sheathed at his side, the palm of his hand resting on the pommel, a vicious grin wormed its way onto his face as he stepped out of the shadows, luckily that vicious grin was hidden from view, but the intense narrowed eyes, and the hand resting upon the pommel of his sword was not. The purposeful steps towards the three men could have been intimidating, if the figure didn’t pause every three to four steps, his mind racing as narrowed eyes darted from the job postings to Erret, the two men speaking to him, then his surroundings. Not so much the vicious killer as a startled hare ready to bolt.

Indeed, while Fayne was a capable scout and veteran mercenary, he was rather lacking when it came to social interactions, okay, he was downright bad at it. Even his demeanor while interacting with others was off, one of the reasons he preferred being a scout and being off by himself, there was no need to talk or interact with others. But those days were long gone, and now he needed a new way to survive. So he steeled his nerves and after a few stuttering steps he barreled forward towards the three men then pointed towards the sign.

”Patrol” His words came out in a loud whisper as he leaned in towards Erret nearly brushing up against both Dominic and Enialis, either not understanding personal space or caring about personal space. In fact, the one word he spoke was hard to interpret. Was he commanding Erret to go on patrol? Was he asking about the Job or demanding to take the Job? The inflection he used when he spoke seemed to indicate everything and nothing at all, which just made the whole situation more comical especially for those who had witnessed things from the beginning.

"He has a point, I would also..." he stops mid sentence as Fion glides down back on his shoulder, pecking towards a direction of a mysterious figure, with an intimidating aura. Enialis promptly backs away from Fayne, pulls out his book very cautiously, if anything goes south, his got a spell prepped.
This message was last edited by the player at 01:20, Tue 14 Jan 2020.

Dominic blinks at the newly arrived town simpleton, "Yes, we're asking him about patrols. Please be a good lad and stand down wind, would you?"

Fayne’s, eyes snapped immediately to the side when Enialis suddenly drew back and brandished a book at him like it was a weapon. Fayne had seen such things before, spell caster, best to take them out first; they could become a problem if they got to wiggling their fingers and letting out giant blasts of arcane fury. But why would the man suddenly go for a weapon when he was only asking a question about the patrols as succinctly as possible, Or in Fayne’s case far too succinctly. But as far as Fayne understood it, perhaps this Elf was easily startled, besides he had only pulled out his book and had not yet wiggled his fingers or muttered anything unintelligible as most spell casters were want to do. So Fayne’s intense gaze shifted from Enialis to Dominic.

Fayne had seen Dominic’s type before, the pompous overly important type; his words and tones though were completely lost upon Fayne. One could take them as an insult, rather just about anyone with any kind of social intelligence would have been offended, Fayne on the other hand gave a simple nod. As pompous and overly important as Dominic looked, his words were sound. They were talking about the patrols, and when hunting and scouting, staying downwind was important. This one also didn’t seem that skittish, unlike the elf, but he also didn’t look that competent, which made him shake his head slightly.

”Start…when?” Fayne spoke once more in that loud rasp of a whisper. Who he was asking was up for grabs, as his eyes continued to scan his surroundings like he was already out on patrol.

Dominic rubs his nose, "Now would be good. Just over there a bit, if you would be so kind." Dom gestures to the side a bit.

Enialis was surprised as the stranger suddenly gazed on him with an intensity he never felt before when someone look at him. He was getting paler the longer he stared and then gave a sigh of relief when he shifted to the nobleman.

Realizing that the stranger isn't looking for trouble, he puts his book back to his pack,"Fion, keep an eye on this guy. He looks dangerous.", he telepathically communicates with his familiar. Then speaks to Mr Smith," As I was saying, I noticed that most of the patrol groups are full, does that mean will have to work together." and he looks at the noble but avoids contact from the mercenary,"Are you sure their aren't any other people looking to be on patrol?"

Smith seemed unfazed by the mysterious cloaked figure's behavior. The frontier seemed to attract the socially awkward. Instead, he answered the elf's questions, taking a deep breath before launching into a spiel he seems to have practiced lately, "For safety's sake, I recommend groups of at least four, and for my pocketbook's sake, I will pay for no more than five. There are three shifts, of approximately 8 hours each, staggered for as much coverage as possible. Wages start at 20 per person, per shift, an extra five for third shift. If you kill any beasties, those are yours, too. Ask Jessop what he's offerin' for monster bits. Job is simple, go from watchtower to watchtower, get a guard to sign a scroll I'll provide. Go around twice, come on back, money's yours. If you run into anything unexpected, use yer judgement. Want the job, sign the contract, and a waiver saying your kin can't blame me if you don't make it back here, and leave after lunch. You'll be the first patrol of second shift, but for simplicity, we'll call you patrol group 3. Oh, and if you like, you could take two shifts in a day, but don't overdo it. As fer living expenses, until the inn is built, it's 1 gold a day for food and a cot in the town hall. If you want a house built, my prices are posted. I'm willing to advance the cost of construction against your future wages, but make sure you save enough to get by."

OOC: The full details of lifestyle expenses are in the "Rules and Character Creation" thread, and building costs are in the "Jessop's Shop and Erret's Construction" thread.
This message was last updated by the GM at 05:02, Tue 14 Jan 2020.

Daniel shrugs and nods, "I'll sign up. And take third shift as well, if you have any openings. If I die...well, my kin won't blame you, certainly. Hell, a couple of them may well celebrate."

Smith replied, "Recommend you come back from this shift alive 'fore you sign up for the next one, friend."

"I'll also take the third shift, mostly cause I'm, what's the word, broke. I will also sign the waiver though I'm confident that I can make it." Enialis then shuffles through his pouch and pulls out an ink bottle and ink pen,"Okay, so where do I sign?"

Smith clears his throat, "Third shift doesn't start until 9 bells past midday. You wanna take second shift while you wait? I assure you there will be openings tonight. Sign here and here."

Enialis signs the necessary papers,"Fine, fine! So I'm guessing we gotta wait for more members to join our patrol group to increase survivability." he puts his writing equipment back in his pouch and looks at the cloaked figure,"Uhm, hey want to join patrol group 3. We could use someone of your, uh, what's the word, talents in this group. Seeing as how your very stealthy." he said with uncertainty in letting him join.

Fayne ignored Dominic when he gestured off in one direction, indicating for him to move there. Rather his focus was upon Erret who finally spoke and unleashed a torrent of information towards them. Fayne nodded his head, immediately understanding the situation, though the other two didn’t seem to understand just how difficult things would be. The two men immediately jumped at the mention of extra gold. But a night patrol, on the edge of the Rimewood…especially after one such patrol…that was like tempting fate. Who knew what they might face on patrol, what beasts or creatures stalked those woods.

Fayne’s eyes flashed to Dominic, then to Enialis. They were both obviously idiots who didn’t understand just how difficult a job this patrol could become. With a mostly silent sigh Fayne reached out picking up the quill then putting a dab of ink on its tip and with a dexterous flick signed his name on the waiver. With a shake of his head he stepped away after signing up for patrol group three and turned his attention to Enialis before taking a few steps in his direction.

”Patrol”

One word, no real inflection to it, but with the way he folded his arms before his chest, Fayne seemed rather amicable if not mostly silent and brooding. His greens eyes then moved from the elf before him, back to his surroundings glancing this way and that.

Dominic signs as well, with all due flourish.

Fayne eyed the Elf and the noble for a moment before reaching over his shoulder and unslinging his short bow. He reached up and checked his quiver of arrows tugging on each one to make sure that it could be pulled freely when the time called for it. His nimble fingers tugged on the bow string and the tension it held. Normally he would leave the bow unstrung until it was needed, but weeks on the run and through rough country he didn’t have the time or the inclination to leave his ranged weapon unstrung. With his bow quickly checked and arrows obstruction free Fayne lung the bow back over his shoulder as he pulled free his short sword.

His green eyes scanned the blade for nicks and dents, a quick swing and twirl of the well maintained blade whistled through the air for a moment. He looked at his current companions before he crouched and took up a clump of mud and smeared it over the blade on both sides. ”Glare” He said in a solemn whisper as if to answer a question, or perhaps to head off a question before it could be asked.

Rising once more he thrust the blade back in his scabbard and nodded to the Elf. ”Need more” He said gesturing to Enialis then Dominic and finally himself, before off to the distance where the Rimewood waited. He held up one gloved finger, then a second, most likely indicating adding one or two more people to the patrol group.

Dominic quirks an eyebrow as Fayne wanders back to his corned, then turns to Enialis, "He right, you know, whether he realizes it or not. A couple boar spears would be handy. Wolves are the most likely predator, and they hunt in packs. Bows and boar spears help now end. Properly trained dogs are good, too, if you have them. I'm afraid our biggest concern will be the pack surrounding us. I can deal with that, but collateral damage is a factor, so it's not advisable. Best we stay together and back to back if we meet more than a starving loner. Wolves really aren't that bad when you're prepared. They don't do cattle or sheep any good, though."

Smith replies, "You can ask Jessop if he has any bows or boar spears. He ain't got no dogs, though. We've yet to get anyone to risk raisin' animals out here. Ain't likely to see a full pack of wolves along the patrol route, anyhow. Too far from the trees. A desperate pair or loner, driven out by stronger predators, maybe, but there are plenty of critters in the Rimewood that a full pack could take easier then us, and they know it. Problem is, desperate animals, they tend to take bigger risks, and they fight to the death."

Fayne turned and stared directly at Erret and gave a slight nod at the man’s words. The noble was speaking as if he were off on some grand hunt in the woods with a gaggle of guards and his friends. The true wilderness was far different, especially on the very edge of civilization. But he didn’t need to explain that, Erret was doing a fine enough job.

”What creatures?”

An actual question this time, with inflection, though only two words strung together, it appeared that he was trying to ask what kind of beast and monstrous creatures they could expect along the patrol route.  Erret spoke of desperate animals, but Fayne was more worried about what else might come lurking particularly close to this new frontier settlement. The more information one had, the better prepared one could be for unforeseen situations that had even the slimmest chance of occurring.

Enialis nods at Dominic,"I agree, you should go buy those spears and bows at Jessop. I'll be here to look for more people to join our group." and he ponders a bit on Fayne's question,"Oh yeah, what kind of creatures will we encounter on the patrol. Best to be prepared, is what you humans say."

Smith answers, "Well, I can't speak to what might actually try an' come through the perimeter, but the woulds surely hold hares, foxes, muskox, caribou, stoats, ground squirrels and other rodents, wolves, bears, giant spiders, goblinfolk and orcs. There might be some human tribes, as well. Those last three might be reasoned with, I leave that judgement up to you, but if ya start a war with local tribes, ya best be prepared to fight in it. Towards the south, Tritons from Torakkum keep our mutual border pretty clear, but you must not kill anything you find on the beach! In fact, you ought stay off the beach, its off the patrol route, anyway."

Entering from Guarding the Lumberjacks

Odilon once more strode into the town hall, his coin sack a little heavier from having defended the Lumberjacks against a massive bear. He walked up to Erret and addressed him in his lower raspy voice, "Well Erret, we've returned and the Lumberjacks have brought back a great haul." he smiled knowing the wood would go towards building the beginning infrastructure of the fledgling town. "Any new work for an old stone like myself?"

Xannan follows Odilon into the town hall.

"Yes, what else needs doing? Perhaps Odilon and I can help by joining a Perimeter Patrol group? Maybe we could go hunting for pelts ..."

Enialis eyes the two newcomers, his ears perked up at the mention of the perimeter patrol, he decided to walk up to them,"Why hello their, it just so happens that me and my group are looking for one more member to join our patrol group. We would be happy to take one of you, unless you two would rather stick together, I guess having more members is technically allowed, right governor."

Fayne listened in silence as Erret spoke about what possible creatures they could find out on patrol, his eyes narrowed slightly at the mention of the various tribes that might lurk within the wood. The possibilities of a sudden war weren’t enticing in the least, especially with the barely constructed frontier town. So if they did run into a member of the tribes it was best to leave things amicable, unless they happened to attack first.

When Odilon and then the Halfling approached Erret and mentioned going out on patrol, Fayne was of the mind to say something, but the Elf finger wiggler approached them and spoke up before he could. Not that he was complaining, rather he shifted and moved to stand behind and to the right Enialis with arms crossed giving a slight nod of confirmation.

With that action, Fayne was giving his silent support to Enialis. Though they had just met, soon they would be out on patrol and in possible peril; a show of solidarity now could mean the difference between life and death.

Smith says, "Enialis has the right of it! Five people in one patrol group is fine an' dandy!"

Xannan bows to Erret, then bows to Odilon, Fayne and Enialis.

Speaking to Erret, he says "Your first task of guarding the lumberjacks was completed most successfully.
I aim to complete this next task in similar speed and ease."

The little gnome kept grumbling to himself, this had better be worth it, as he made his way into the small frontier settlement; his hand straying to the letter in his breast pocket of his jacket, and towards the town hall in the middle of the, what would you call this?as he looked around at the makeshift buildings of the settlement; shivering from the cold wind howling out of the North. A fool's errand bordering on stupidity or courage.He thinks with a nod and shakes his head. Leave it to you to open your big mouth. He thinks to himself with a slow grin appearing on his face. Well, let's make this work...

His steps make steady progress as Alban finally reaches the town hall and notices the jobs posted on a bulletin board near the front door. Looking over the postings he was not surprised at what he found. The usual fodder for foolish adventurers. Well, I will have to start somewhere. Alban moves towards the front door, opens it, and steps inside the hall; its warmth seeping into his small frame and taking away the chill of the wind outside.  Closing the door behind him Alban scans the room and its occupants; looking for the one in charge...

"Mr Evert Smith?" He announces out loud with a polite smile on his face towards the crowd of figures in the room to see who would greet him. What a strange crew? He thought while taking in the sight before him, but then look whose talking. You've worked with stranger.

Fayne glanced at the two new comers then back to Smith, his eyes turned toward Dominic, then to Enialis before speaking in his usual singular worded way. ”Ready?”

Even though Fayne had gotten in that day, he had checked and readied his weapons; the two new comers looked like they had just pulled a shift but were eager for more. The Halflings words though reeked of over confidence, well at least to Fayne they did, but then again it was possible this little Halfling was extremely competent.

The sudden gust of cold air immediately garnered Fayne’s attention, his eyes turned from the others to the Gnome that entered. His head tilted slightly for a moment before he gave a slight nod to Alban as the Gnomes voice broke through the cacophony of the others. With that Fayne headed to the door to wait for the others within his group to head out for their scheduled patrol.

<< Coming back from Guarding the Lumberjacks

Getting a solid bit of work done was good for the soul!  Such was a notion Adalheida lived by and believed with all her heart, as she most certainly felt better after a job well done.  Achy legs and chilled bones were just part and parcel, really.  The towering Centaur was grateful to be back in the settlement again where she could manage some business of handing off the goods her group had been blessed with in the form of a freshly hunted bear.  But the delay in getting her market tasks done put her off schedule - the others had already gone on without her to other affairs!  It left her in a bit of a pout as she perused the job postings only to find that there didn't appear to be any pressing matters listed.

Surely there was more that needed to be done?  The Centaur stooped her head down as she headed on into the main hall once more to seek out the townmaster himself, though she had to step delicately as she noticed Alban nearly underhoof.  She hadn't realized there were Gnomish folk about as well and offered the fellow a polite smile from her looming height before she joined him in a summoning call.  "Master Smith, you have company!  Don't leave our bones to grow lazy when there must be work to do!"

Smith was in the midst of correcting Alban about his name when Adalheida came in. "Well, we could always use more patrols along the perimeter. Or you could organize a huntin' party."

Odilon saw Adalheida come in and summon Erret's attention, "Ah Adalheida, good to see you again." his face upturned in a polite smile, wrinkles deepening showing his age. "Maybe we join the next patrol together? Will be nice knowing someone as we patrol"

Enialis looks at the two newcomers oddly, especially the one that just arrived,"A centaur, I never thought of meeting one so far away from the woods. A pleasure ma'am.", Enialis gives an elven bow to Adalheida and turns back to the group,"Anyways I don't think we have anymore questions, unless the two newcomers have some questions, we should be heading out."

Azu approached the red haired man and without blinking gave him the hug he seemed to be asking for., then spoke, ”Hello good sir, I’m Azucondie, call me Azu. It is very nice to be here. I’m a clown. Do you need any clowns here?”

A shout is heard from just outside the wall. "Nor'east signal fire is aflame!" Smith says, "quick, there is no time to waste! You can patrol when you get back! Head for that tower!"

Adalheida offered Enialis a nod of greeting, though she had a bit of a wry grin all the same.  "Newcomers?" she cast a joking look over to Odilon and shrugged, though she set aside such matters as she dug around in her bag for a moment to retrieve a small trinket.

"I'd like that, Master Odilon~.  And here - for your bravery earlier.  I thought you might like this." the Centaur offered a simple bauble down - a stout, polished bear claw set into an ornate bit of complicated knotting on the end of a necklace loop.  She'd claimed to be a craftsman earlier and it seemed fine detail work was not beyond the Centaur's abilities despite her being so large a creature.  But such friendly affairs had to be set aside as an emergency seemed to spark up with Smith's sudden call to action.  An alert?  It had to be trouble!

"To the northeast?  Will do!" she chimed quickly, eager to do some more good.

Adalheida will volunteer for the Signal Fire Alert

Odilon took the trinket from the Centaur with a smile, "My my, what a beautiful.." but then the alert was sounded and Odilon looked to Adalheida a bit worried before slipping the trinket over his head and then following her out the door.

At hearing someone correct his mistake Alban shakes his head a little.  Just arrived and already you're in trouble with the person in charge.  Nice going, moron.  Even for you, that takes talent.  Moving aside a little to let the centaur into the room Alban regained his wits and started to make his way over to Erret Smith.

However, halfway across the hall the shouts about a signal fire being lit draws everyone's attention outside to the settlement wall.  Alban turns back towards the door and heads outside back into the cold towards the raised alarm.  Here we go.... Alban continues running with the others to the northeast and the distant light of the fire.


Alban will volunteer for the Signal Fire Alert

Azu seemed unphazed by the alert. She looked at the red haired man and said, ”Sooooo...that’s a no on the clown thing then?”

Erret blinks at Azucondie in disbelief, before sputtering and saying, "we don't even have a tavern yet, miss! And depending on what that signal fire means..."

Azu stood there eyes wide and nodding, waiting on the man to finish his sentence. She had this affect on men, they often were without words when she was about. She believed it was her own devastating good looks, and natural talent.

"Are you right in the head, miss?" Smith said, with a concerned look on his face.

Azu blew a razzberry as she realized he was indeed flirting with her, all his talk about signals and fires. "Of course I am, good sir, it would be impossible for me to be in the wrong head, now wouldn't it? I mean unless I'd been polymorphed or..." The horrid idea crept into her brain. What if she had been polymorphed? What if she had been turned into an ugly old hag...or worse...a beautiful old hag...or worse - worse an ugly young hag! She began to panic, "Oh no! What if I've been polymorphed? Am I an ugly young hag. Oh NO!" She immediately began to cry and put her face in her hands. "I'm *sob* an ugly young *sob* hag! No one will ever want to watch me perform again. I'll die alone in my ugly youngness...*SOB!*"

She grabbed the man by his lapels and pressed her wet face against his clean shirt. She felt around until she found a handkerchief (preferably his) and pulled it to her face and blew her nose, and again, and again, until it was soaked and then handed it to him as if nothing had even happened.

Erret looked at his handkerchief confused then mentally shook it off and threw the handkerchief into the fire behind him. "My dear," he spoke, "you are not ugly, nor a hag. I'm sure you have plenty in your lifetime left to make sure you will not be alone. Whether it be by friends or a companion, that all comes with time and is up to you to find. Now, if you are looking for work please check the job board and get back to me when you have chosen a job. I can offer you further instruction from there." And with those final words Smith rushed out into the cold to see if he could spot the fire himself and if it had been put out.

Azu went over and sat in front of the jobs board, waiting for others to come along...

Enialis returns to Smith's Gambit without incident,"Well I'll leave you to whatever it is you do. I'm off to my patrol group." he says to the person he escorted, Alen was his name and went off to patrol group 3.

"Thank you, and best of luck, or at least better than mine. The local wildlife seems to love the taste of elves," Alen said to Enialis.
This message had punctuation tweaked by the GM at 06:17, Sat 25 Jan 2020.

A young woman with nice clothes enters the place.

It would appear that jobs are scare around these parts.  Is anyone willing to start at the bottom and work the perimiter?   Maybe get lucky and find a couple pelts along the way?

Azu Put her hand up. From her seated position beside the jobs board her hand would be right in Anreyela’s face. She started waving it back and forth as she spoke. ”Oh me! Pick me...please...oh please pick me.” There is the impression that she has no idea why, she just really wants someone to pick her.

Holding her hand out.

Hi I'm Anreyela.  Nice to meet you.   Whats your name?

Looks like it is just us at the moment.  I have been known to play a lute, sing a song and occasionally punch things.  Still rather new to the adventurer thing.   If no one else is willing to go we could try being an intrepid duo of legend?

Not much of a way to start but it looks like pelts are paying, and maybe the perimeter?

This message was last edited by the player at 19:40, Mon 27 Jan 2020.

Azu shook the other woman’s hand too hard, even though her own strength is minuscule. It si comedy...timing is everything. She grinned, ”Oh you picked me! Oh how marvelous. I am so pleased to be picked.” She stood and smoothed out her dress. ”I’m Azucondie, pleased to meet you. Everyone just calls me Azu the Clown. Or just Azu. Or just Clown. Sometimes Hey You. Sometimes Fuck You. Sometimes asshole...” five minutes later after she had recited every name she had been called, ”Oh sure, I don’t mind.” Then she makes a perfect Animae Girl pose and says, ”Intreped Dou of Legend! That’s us. We can fight evil doers.” Then she paused and listened some more, ”Of course, we will guard the perimeter! We will fight the forces of evil and peltiness. I go left and you go right. You can go right while I go left if you prefer!”

Plucking a song as she recites the long list

That is quite the list Azu, most impressive that you remember all of them i only remember the last couple.  Though we certain have shared a few names fuck you and asshole seems to be frequent.

Looking for the governor.

Hey Erret, what we gotta do to get signed up for the perimeter?  Striking a pose reminiscent of Azu leaned forward holding out her hand with a V symbol on her fingers. Azu and I will clean up this place, or at least sing a song about it while someone else actually does the work.  We might only be a pair but we can run away with the best of them.

Azu stood beside her brand new BFF and made a matching “V” with her own fingers. ”Evil Doers BEWARE!”

Erret says, with a suddenly exhausted look on his face, "I'm afraid we don't pay for running away from fights, but if you get two or three more people to join you, you may patrol the perimeter. I wouldn't recommend runnin' off into the woods, just the two of you, but I won't stop ya. If yer lookin' for pelts, I'd suggest takin' some traps with ya. Jessop sells em."

Looks disappointed

Well as it looks like it is just us right now at least until someone else comes around. I guess we will have to do the easy quest.  Off to Jessops'

Azu echoed what her new Besty said, ”Quest!” Then she said curiously, ”Going to Jessop’s is a quest? Are their evil doers in there? Oh what fun. We will crush the evil at Jessop’s”

Hoot cautiously glides into town, sticking away from crowds. He makes his way to the job board, but he cannot help but whip his head around looking at things. Quietly he repeats the animal cries of any furs he sees, and looking at the buildings he chimes out the thwack of woodcutter's axes and the hammering of the men who recently built them.

Arriving at the job board, Hoot cautiously examines Erret keeping tense and ready to bolt. Eventually he gathers his courage and waves to get Erret's attention. "Ah! Governor Smith~! Do you have a moment, sir?" The words are in the centaur's voice, and the volume and cheer contrast sharply with Hoot's short, tense stature.
This message was last edited by the player at 06:32, Tue 04 Feb 2020.

Alban enters the hall again from the trading post in a hurry to get out of the weather storm blowing through the area.

Alban looks around the room to find Erret and makes his way over the skittish man and Erret.  "Erret, my name is Alban, sir." extending his hand towards Erret.  "I was talking with Jessop about building a small cabin with a workshop area and putting plans in motion to have them built.  I do have some crafting skills and tools to help with construction to speed up construction.  Jessop suggested I talk with you about that."

Seeing the fidgety man next to Erret Alban tip his hat to the man.  "How are you tonight lad? Name's Alban by the way.  What's your's?"
This message was last edited by the player at 02:35, Tue 04 Feb 2020.

Anreyela comes back by Erret.

Hey Erret, got any..

Looking at the other people.

Hey you 2 looking for more people?  Azu and I need two more to take on the perimeter.  you guys up for it?

Hoot looks down at the gnome, curious. "I mean no harm... and more pressing, I am alone." The voice this time is a bugbear's rough bass that likewise doesn't fit the kenku's scrawny frame.

"Name's [snowy owl call] by the way," he repeats in Alban's own voice. What he gives as his name is the short hoot of an owl local to the region.

Hoot is surprised when the women arrives. He wanted to try to be around these people, and they keep showing up! They speak so quickly too.

"More people?" He scrunches up his face and leans forward as he concentrates on how to reply. So many words to choose from.

Ah, that works. Hoot straightens back up and turns to answer her. "Quick, there is no time to waste!" The latest voice is Erret's with an undercurrent of urgency.

Hoot is glad people are considerate enough to project their voices so loudly sometimes.
This message was last edited by the player at 06:35, Tue 04 Feb 2020.

Anreyela looks at the bird looking creature and tried to make [snowy owl call].  How about hoot?  is that a yes you want to go?
This message was lightly edited by the player at 16:16, Tue 04 Feb 2020.

Azu immediately loved the tiny bird person. She grinned, Oh how wonderful I’m Azucondie but you can call me Azu. You have such beautiful feathers. You can use my voice any time you like. If someone comes up to you with attitude you can just go ‘chill out.’ If they want to fight you can go ‘hey dickwad my name it Hoot. Wanna rumble.’ Oh and if you wanna shine ‘em on, it’s ‘hasta la vista baby.’ Or you can do combinations.”

This is going to be SO much fun. I have my own little recorder who is a person!!!

"Hoot?" The kenku takes in the nickname. It's not as good as the majestic owl call, but he likes it. Going with these people sounds fun. "Yes, yes, yes."

Hoot contemplates what Azu said. "Can use my voice any time." The concept of permission is strange to him. Usually the forest people just attack if they don't like it. He leans forwards as he tries out the different suggestions. "Chill out... Hey dickwad my name is Hoot. Wanna rumble?.. Hasta la vista baby!" So many new words, he doesn't recognize some of them.

He straightens back up and bobs up and down in front of Azu. "Chill out, my name is Hoot." Unfortunately the excitement doesn't affect his intonation at all.

By this point, Hoot has lost all of his caution. It doesn't look like these people will try to eat him or drive him away from their tribe. This is a nice feeling.

Turning towards the loud woman addressing him and Hoot Alban replies, “Anreyela, I would be interested in doing a patrol if you are up for it if it’s not too late in the day. What do you think, Erret?  We would need to make it official.  What say you?”

I think we would be glad to have you.

OOC: As i do not know what "time" it is in game, we will get started "tomorrow" after erret?


Anreyela will go track down Erret.

Hello Erret we got 4, how do we get signed up and get an assignment if there are specific ones?  Myself, Azu, Hoot, and Alban

Erret says, "We need another patrol group to run the perimeter opposite the one that just left. Thanks to some heavy snow to the northeast slowing down first shift, all the patrols are behind schedule. You can sign your contracts and liability waivers here, and once yer all signed up, I'll give yer instructions."

OOC: Time is a bit wibbly-wobbly in this game. I'll put the rough time in the post subject line.

Azu runs over and draws a happy clown face, that is roughly like her own, as her signature.

Anreyela follows Azu over and signs up.

Good thing i bought an extra blanket.

Alban motions over to Erret and the contract.  "I'll sign the waiver, Erret.  Wouldn't want you to be liable for my own stupidity." Alban says with a laugh. Although, it is starting to get long in the daylight hours.  Do we want to risk a patrol today or wait untl the morning?"

Alban pauses for a moment and says, "And at the risk of repeating myself what do you think of me helping with building construction around the settlement?"

referencing msg# 164
This message was last edited by the player at 23:23, Wed 05 Feb 2020.

Hoot looks over the quill, admiring its shape, before settling down to the proffered contract and realizing he's not quite sure what he's supposed to do. He eventually decides on copying what someone else has written on an earlier line. Despite his utmost focus, his hands are unused to writing, and it comes out as an unrecognizable scribble.

Hoot reluctantly puts back the quill after he finishes. He'll have to practice with some of his owl feathers later.

Smith replied to Alban, "Night time patrols are the most important! That's why we pay extra for third shift! Just don't forget to take torches. Wouldn't want the guards to think you're a pack of goblins tryin' to sneak up on 'em in the dark! We've got plenty of builders, but I suppose if you want to save some money, and yer part of the right guild, you can work with the others between the jobs we really need you for."

OOC: For each unit of downtime you spend building, you can get paid 1gp, up to a total of 1/5 the total price of the project you are working on.

Gathering up his scroll from Erret and packing it away among his gear Alban says to the group, "Well, now that that's settled.  Shall we be off everyone or do you need to gather up your gear?  It will be cold tonight, so pack accordingly."? 

Turning back to Errot Alban replies to Erret's comments with a small head bob, "I only meant to help speed the building process along, Errot.  I meant no disrespect and just wanted you to know that I and my talents can be of service to you."

"Is there a plan for tonight's patrol? I assume everyone knows the patrol route we plan to take tonight.  Any questions?"" Looking around at the other three individuals in kind.

Bonus for night time, and then easy daytime watches?  Lets do the bonus.

Erret said, "None taken. It's just that anyone with the courage and skill to walk the perimeter or explore the woods would better serve our little community that way."

OOC: Instructions for the job will be in its thread.

This message was last edited by the GM at 15:25, Fri 07 Feb 2020.

Receiving his payment, Sai sees another group gathering to leave and moves quickly to join them, his eyes lighting up when someone mentions a nighttime bonus.

Can I join the latest perimeter patrol group? The job board says it's still recruiting.

PM
This message was last edited by the GM at 03:57, Thu 13 Feb 2020.

After a few quick words with Erret and another quick signature, Sai dashes out the door.

Seeing no jobs currently available after returning from the patrol Boneclaw opened up the side of his traveling apothecary and scribbled on a plaque:"Healing services offered for 40 gold pieces each. Funeral services offered for 25 gold pieces". Underneath he scribbled:"Donations of 50 gold pieces or more towards the building of a local church of Kelemvor will be rewarded with a free funeral".
He thought on that last sentence for a moment and scribbled under that:" .. at a time of your choosing, usually after someone died".

Boneclaw searched for Jessop and offered him his letter of introduction from the Alchemist and Apothecary Guild. "At your service", he solemnly said in a gravely voice and pointed outside to his cart. He held up the plaque he'd made earlier.

"We need a plot of land where the dead can rest", he suggested with the same voice:"The church of Kelemvor provides funeral services to the dead, healing and comfort to the living".
This message was last edited by the player at 13:29, Thu 13 Feb 2020.

Smith replies, "Why of course! I will grant the church of Kelemvor a plot of land, for the cost of one funeral service, at the time of my passin'."

Dorian enters the large building, wearing new, thicker clothes more suitable in this environment.
His steps lead him directly to Erret Smith where he nods at him “The patrol was a success, nothing interesting happened except that pack of wild dogs which we dispatched quickly.” He stands a bit more relaxed and audibly exhales “Well, I got myself some warmer clothes and I think these lands are starting to grow on me. With your permission I’d like to start building a place to call my own here. I’ve heard you could help me with that. I was thinking about starting small but later to include a stable and maybe an area for some horses to move their legs.” He looks at Mr. Smith expectantly before quickly adding “Which means it would have to be a bit outside or at the edge of the settlement.”

I’d like a simple log cabin with a fire place 50gp
And a bedroom addition with a stove. 50gp
I’d have 20gp available as down payment.

Smith says, "Well, if you plan on making that stable available to the public, you'd want it on the road, just this side of the palisade. You'd have the right to charge what you wish for the service. Of course, as we grow, we may eventually expand that direction. Moving could be done at your expense, if you wish. Just sign this contract promising no less than one-quarter of your gains from each job until paid in full. If you specify an inheritor to take over the contract in case of the worst, they will be responsible for the remaining balance, otherwise ownership of the structure shall revert to me."

Nodding along, Dorian signs the paper “Sounds good. Say, is there any job available at the moment? It is now in my and your interest, for me to make as much money as possible.”

Dorian covers his mouth and yawns before shaking his head “I’m sorry, I must have almost dozed off here. How about you write me down for another perimeter patrol and I’ll take a quick nap. Should something more important appear you can sign me up for that and if not, then I’ll wait until there are enough others to go together with me.”

Smith replies, "Okay, I'll let you know if anything else comes up."

This message was last updated by the player at 21:42, Mon 17 Feb 2020.

Verbannt burst into Smith's Gambit, bringing with him a fine flurry of of snow as he all but ran inside and slammed the door behind him.  Indeed, he was panting heavily, as if he had run a long way.

"I... would have.... urgent... words with.... Governor Erret.... Smith, and any and... all who call this place home!"

He announced loudly, setting a worn set of chain mail, a large shield with a three toed red foot painted upon it, a quiver of arrows with a longbow, and a longsword upon the table.
This message was last edited by the player at 23:36, Sat 22 Feb 2020.

Dorian was sitting on a bench and cleaning his sword when the man hurried into Smith’s Gambit and threw down the items. With interest Dorian walks over to the man, resting the tip of his great sword on the ground as he continues to clean his blade.“Trouble?”

Verbannt was no man.

He was a massive thing, as tall as the tallest Goliath and just as broad.  He was clothed in rough travel leathers, with a heavy fur cloak about his shoulders that looked to have come from the hide of some enormous mountain goat.  The goat's large head was visible upon his left breast, minus the horns and bones, or else it would have been far too easy to mistake the enormous grey pelt as that of a cave bear or dire wolf.  He had the hood of the cloak pulled up over his head, and a light dusting of snow upon his shoulders, but in the pale light of the Smith's Gambit it was easy to see that this was no Goliath.  His eyes glowed golden in the firelight, over large and reflective, and thick tufts of fur covered his shadowed features.

He was a Bugbear.

"I came upon.... one of the Redfoot."

He huffed as he regained his breath, his voice a low rumble that echoed up from somewhere deep within his chest.  He reached out a meaty paw and tapped the shield on the counter with its three toed foot painted in red.

"Hobgoblin clan, raiders and warriors."

He reached into his leathers and pulled out a rolled up map.  Hand drawn, it showed Smith's Gambit, but also a trail towards another point of interest.

"They know that we are here, and they are already sending raiders.  Goblin scouts, looking to steal, but it will not end there.  There has already been blood."

Which explained where he'd gotten the weapons and armor from, as well as the crimson stains on the chainmail.

"Where is Governor Smith?"
This message had punctuation tweaked by the player at 16:38, Sun 23 Feb 2020.

Smith came out from the crowd and said, "Verbannt, was it? I new it was only a matter of time before raiders tried to come this way. It's good luck that you found that map! Now, we need to send scouts to confirm the size of the threat, and prepare accordingly. I'll post the job immediately. You've proven pretty capable, Can I count on you to head the scouting expedition?"

Dorian stops dead in his track as he finally notices that the “man” is more goblin than man. It takes him a minute, stealing glances at the hobgoblin, to answer Smith’s question. “Ehm... I’d be willing to scout it out. You don’t happen to have a horse, do you?”

Smith says, "I'm afraid not. Got plenty of mule, but no horse. No offense, but you're a bit green for this job, Dorian. I won't stop you from goin', but know that this will be more dangerous than yer average patrol."

OOC: The recommended level for this job is 2. Level 1's are welcome to take the risk, but I won't go easy on you. Stealth is recommended. You've been warned.

After his conversation with Alban Boneclaw had snuck into Smith's Gambit and listened in on the ongoing conversation and considered joining the scouting mission.

(I think Dorian joined around the same time as me so if we can sleep before the scout mission we should be able to level up. 150xp Christmas bonus, 150xp bonus for 1000th post, 100xp for patrol makes 400xp means level 2). Of course neither Dorian nor Boneclaw are stealth characetrs I think so there's that

Verbannt nodded.

"I am skilled at woodcraft and stealthcraft, and have no love for the RedFoot.  I would lead this expedition."

He paused, looking at the newcomer, then back at Dorian.

"It is difficult to go unseen while on the back of a mule or horse, and unless you intend to fight the whole camp, stealth will be needed here."

Dorian nods “I understand the danger but I’m willing to help out.” He puts away the cloth he used to clean his blade and lifts his large blade. “Well, I was thinking about escaping on a horse should they discover us, horses are in general faster than us.”

I’m totally in! And I joined a couple of days after Christmas so I’m still level 1

"It is better to plan to not be discovered, than to plan to ensure we are."

Verbannt countered.

"Are none of you trained in stealthcraft?

He added, sounding disbelieving.

"I do not think this will be the job for any of you, unless you wish to serve as a distraction while I do the real work."

Blunt, but it did not appear that he was trying to be cruel.  It was hard to say with his alien features, his face so utterly inhuman.

"Is that your wish?"

"It is better to strike than to be stricken but if one is stricken it is better to have a priest along", Boneclaw solemnly replied. He held up the holy symbol of Kelemvor, god of death.

Verbannt peered at the holy symbol, leaning forward.

"I do not know your Northen Gods, but with that you have the look of a bone priest about you."

He nodded.

"A bone priest is always a good thing to have on your side.  How is your herblore?"
This message was last edited by the player at 17:44, Tue 25 Feb 2020.

Dorian shakes his head softly “It’s true that I’m not well suited for hiding in the shadows. Though I can act as backup should you be discovered.” He now leans against his great sword with the hilt under his arm “You scout and I’ll stand back as backup. If nothing happens then at least I stretched my legs a bit.”

Not only am I wearing heavy armor, I’m also in the negative with my DEX...
This message was last edited by the player at 00:54, Wed 26 Feb 2020.

"Do you have a horse, then?"

Verbannt asked, raising an eyebrow.

Smith chimes in, "As long as the noisy ones stay out of earshot from the camp, it wouldn't hurt to have them along for the journey there and back."

"If I am going in alone, then we will need more back up to make a louder distraction.  Let us go and find others who can fight."

Dorian shakes his head “I’m working on getting one or two.” He places his hand on his chin “A distraction might be interesting.”

Boneclaw made the loud noise of a mule, like the creature was right there with them in the room:"IIIAAAAAAAH! IIIAAAAH!!".
"A louder distraction", he said in Lucas' voice.

Spark perked up at the sudden loud braying sounds coming from where there was no animal to make such a noise. He carefully made his way over, his metal face impassive, yet his eyes shining brightly with curiosity. "Well, there's something I don't know if I've heard before."

He chuckles at his own confusing speech even as his eyes take in the various gathered people.

"There was talk of a job? If you need more people to take attention away from the sneaking types, I'm happy to lend a hand, a mace and the occasional healing enchantment."

Smith marveled at the sight of Spark, saying, "I've been all round the world, but until I came here, I'd never seen your like. And now, I've seen two this week! What's yer name, metal man?"

Spark's voice held a mild manner, yet a hint of excitement tinged almost every word as his softly glowing eyes took in everything that had once been familiar yet now seemed novel. His features largely unmoving, yet his voice betraying the ironic humour in his response as he looked at Smith. "You know, I'm not quite sure, but the first thing that happened when I powered back up was a spark, and something about that struck a chord, so I guess it's Spark."

He offered something between a deep nod and a half-bow in greeting to the proprietor of the place he was in.

"One more body to throw at the frontline", Boneclaw commented with the voice of a veteran general.

After waking up from a nice sleep, Tidelan was utterly broke for cash. Though he kept isolated, he couldn't help but hear around town about a mission that was supposedly dangerous but paying well...

He was interested but cautious. Then, he learned his old ally Lukas, someone he would consider himself close to, begrudgingly, of course, was leading the mission. Now, for once Tidelan was eager.

He approached the bugbear, "Hey. Verbannt. Do you have more room for this mission? Do you know how much does it pay?" he asked.

Dorian leans on his great sword and looks at those surrounding him with skepticism in his eyes. “Well, I’m not sure how good they’ll be scouting but a couple of these will make great distractions.”

"Fifty pieces of gold, as an initial offer, depending upon what we accomplish."

He paused, scowling.

"You had little enough stealth craft either, from what I recall.  It appears that the plan will indeed involve you all creating a distraction while I scout the camp.  Very well.  Let us be about it first thing in the morning.  Until then, I have business to be about, and herbs to tend to."
This message was last edited by the player at 01:22, Tue 03 Mar 2020.

Dorian smiles grimly “Indeed, I prefer the enemy to flee at the sight of me. Where shall we meet?” He picks up his large blade and places it on his shoulder.

"Here, two hours before dawn."

Verbannt confirmed, heading out the door with the weapons and armor he had liberated.

"Herbs to tend to. Here, two hours before dawn.", Boneclaw nodded and went to work on his own batch of potions.

Watching the Hobgoblin marching out with his equipment he says to no one in particular "I like him." He turns to smith to say his goodbyes before leaving for the Inn.
This message was last edited by the player at 12:35, Tue 03 Mar 2020.

"So far, I like everyone!" Spark replies with energy in his voice and a brighter shine to his eyes. "Sneaking into Goblin camps and making distractions sounds terribly exciting!"

He looks to Smith and a soft chuckle forms once more. "Then again, before one week back, I didn't know anything, or at least nothing that I can remember."

The week had been an arduous trek through snow and ice, darkness and peril as Spark had made his way out of the mountains, and only by the grace of whoever or whatever watched over him made his way to Smith's Gambit.

Journeying in the cold and windy conditions had taught Spark a thing or two that he perhaps should see to. "Say, is there anyone around your establishment, or even yourself, able to provide some manner of covering, or cloaks to shield against the wind and snow? I have noticed that my joints and limbs seem to lock up or work slowly with too much exposure?"

Tidelan liked the metal man. He was a fan of interesting people, it seemed.

Then he realized he couldn't pay for the inn stay... he needed two gold pieces.

He approached the warforged and asked, "Excuse me, could I borrow two gold? I will pay you back double that after the mission"

Spark turned to the man approaching him, and even though his crafted features didn't lend themselves to a wide grin, his posture and shining eyes none-the-less offered a warmer welcome. "Greetings, I am called Spark." A short pause, "well, I call myself Spark, so there's that." He gave a short nod before continuing. "Pleased to meet you."

The unceremonious begging for money without much in terms of introduction didn't seem to bother the Warforged, although his form slumped a little. "I am sadly not created from gold and precious metals," which wasn't entirely true probably, but Spark couldn't remember ever having seen inside himself. "I need the small funds I have for my own ventures before the trek tomorrow, but if your need is great I am certain I can spare something, what do you need it for?"

His posture had reverted to the more casual and relaxed one, where nothing was impossible, and every challenge was an opportunity to overcome.

Tidelan's blue skin was flushed, making it almost purple, his voice faltered with embarassment, "Uh... just to stay at the inn, since I don't want to be sore or tired next morning..."

He thought for a second, "How about a trade? I can offer you the ingredients for a single healing potion. It's not useful if you don't know how to use it, but it's worth ten gold pieces..."

Spark would have beamed had he the features for it, but a bark of a happy laugh escaped him as he placed hands on hips in a triumphant pose. "A room at the inn?! Why didn't you just say so, that's certainly worthwhile. Wouldn't want anyone to be om their back leg even before we strike out from here."

One arm went to scratch at his chin, a subconscious and meaningless gesture that he must have adopted from his creator. "Tell you what, I am also in need of shelter. How say you we share the cost, I front the two coins, and you repay me after the mission? You can certainly keep your ingredients. Hardly a fair trade to rob someone of ten gold for a single night's lodging."

He pauses to allow the blue-skinned man to ponder the suggestion. "You get the bed, I only need a corner to stand in, I'm not one for sleep anyway. The bonus is that you get a sentry, not that it would be needed, I'm sure."

Tidelan seemed surprised and hesitant to be grateful.

Nonetheless, he responded with as much grace as he could muster. "this is agreeable"

"Excellent!" Spark exclaimed as he reached his arm out, hand open in an invitation to shake the blue-skinned man's hand sealing the arrangement, and possibly also allowing the other party to introduce himself if he so chose.

"As I said, my name is Spark. What's your name?"

"I am called Tidelan Wavyrus" the water genasi replied, shaking the presumably sapient construct's metal grasp.

"We should go rent our room, so we can get food in time and so it's not taken..."

[ OOC: Maybe you should post in Frosthide Inn? ]

Spark shakes the hand firmly, but not painfully before releasing it. "To the inn, then. I'm not much for eating either, but let us get the room and then I can look around for somewhere to acquire a heavy coat to shield against the winter winds in these lands."

He moves out the door and heads to the Frosthide Inn.

After running a few errands, Spark returned to the town hall, making sure to get rid of snow and grime before entering the building. He once again sought out the man Erret Smith, greeting him with a wave as he approached.

"Hello again, Mr Smith. I have just been at Jessop's to procure a set of garments suited for the winter. While there, he told me that you would be the man to speak to with regards to having a private building erected?"

Spark's voice was the same mild and easy as before. His creator no doubt wanting an assistant that would be easy to listen to. Yet, there was excitement present as well. "I have hope of getting a smithy set up, and perhaps room for working wood as well. I don't really require living space as I'm fairly well set up for resting on my feet."

The slightly hesitant note displayed earlier when talking about finances returned. "It was also suggested that you would be able to front the costs of building while I took on jobs and paid down as I went? Although being proficient in carpentry, I'm sure there is much I could do myself to keep both costs and the demand for labour down."

"You're an adventurer, right? Best paying job around, risky as it is. Sign a contract promising twenty percent of your pay for each job you do, until the loan is paid off, and I'll cover the costs, interest free. However, should the worst happen and you perish 'fore its paid off, the building belongs to me."
This message was last updated by the GM at 18:48, Fri 06 Mar 2020.

Spark nodded eagerly. "That sounds more than agreeable, that's most generous of you. I will start small, but request a plot that is big enough to expand into in time."

Enialis bid fair well from the Frosthide Inn and decided to visit Smith for a new job,"Good day Mr Smith, I'm wondering if their are any available jobs around here that could use a mage."

Thorton Glassglow, wearing a heavy brown cloak and boots, spends some time asking for Smith before tracking him down. His arrival in town was unceremonious.

He talks quietly, and quickly. "I've heard you're the one to talk to about jobs. Anything will do. I just need to get to work."

Enialis looked at the newcomer up and down, raising his eye brow,"Ahem, excuse me but asking is a bit rude without an introduction. Let me educate you in manners, my name is Enialis Siannodel, this is my familiar Fion" he gestures to a hawk on his shoulder,"and may I ask who you are?"

Smith cuts in before Thorton responds, worried that the half-orc might lose his temper and start throwing spells around when confronted like that, "Its fine, Enialis. The man's clearly traveled a long way, and ain't comfortable 'round strangers. I'm sure his manners will improve when he gets to know us all better! I'm Erret Smith. Most folks just call me Smith. What's yer name, stranger?"

This message was last updated by the GM at 06:40, Wed 18 Mar 2020.

"Sorry. Thorton. Thorton Glassglow. Ruffles, say hi.
A small grey cat peeks its head out from under Thorton's hood, looks around, shakes its head, and then curls back up under his hood.

I've got a familiar too. Good for company, far from home. Anyway, nice to meet you, Mr. Smith. Mr. Siannodel. He nods to both.

Enialis gives a nod back, and looks at Ruffles curiously,"Huh, interesting, so your a wizard as well. You don't look like an academic from the 'College of Wizardry', where you self thought. Oh, nevermind what I said." he says, waving the subject dismissively,"You said that you were looking for a job, well it just so happens that I'm looking for one as well. Would you like to team up as a group, two mages are better then one, so the saying goes."

"There's strength in numbers. I would be honored to join you, Mr. Siannodel."

Smith says, "Another adventurer just put up a job, so you might want to talk to him about it." He nods in Jankar's direction.

Odilon walks in, well rested and wearing a smile.

"Good day all, Hyx smiles on us" noticing the new positing on the board Odilon's smile broadens. "A job to help the town sounds like a job for me, is Jankar present to sign up with" he calls out to those gathered.

Enialis gives a wave as Odilon walks in,"Oh, Odilon your also joining in the job, well we could always use a bit more muscle. By the way, did you sold that pelt to Jessop yet." he says and tries to spot for Jandar around the area.

Once Jankar had gotten plenty of rest in his new room at the inn, he was up bright and early to exercise and grab breakfast when the bell rung for it. He felt much better now that he had gotten some proper rest in a real bed so he was ready to take on the day. He was dressed up in his chainmail and had his gear ready to go, the polished knife of his glaive shining in the afternoon sun. It looked like his job had been posted already and seemed to be attracting a decent group of adventurers. With a brief smile, the rugged ex-military man waved at those who were interested to come and join him. "Jankar here for the scouting job. Let's group up here before we get going. I'd like to know who I'm embarking on this expedition with. For those of you that do not know me, I am Jankar Ulmakina, former sergeant of the Alemakian Army. Our mission today is this: I wish to construct a watchtower for this town so that we are better suited for incoming threats. I will also be scouting a location for my personal cabin that I intend on keeping close to the tower, but a location for the watchtower is our main priority." 

After a hearty meal and good rest Xannan walks in,
and overhears Enialis say "...well we could always use a bit more muscle."

"I'm your man!" declares Xannan, as he strikes a martial-arts-style pose. "Ugh! Sign me up!"

Thorton looks relieved to be talking about the job.
Sergeant Ulmakina, I am Thorton. Thorton Glassglow. I am a practitioner of book magic, and used to traveling through rough terrain. Ruffles may be of some assistance to us for scouting. Say hi, Ruffles.


A small grey cat peaks his head out from under his hood and lets out a soft meow before returning to place.

How long do you think we'll be scouting for?

"Oh, your here to Xan, I guess we can always use another body to protect us." Enialis says, after seeing Xan do his post, he then looks to the sergeant to introduce himself,"I am Enialis Siannodel, I'm a student from the College of Wizardry and I'm in a sort of, uhm, pilgrimage, I think is the right word for it, and I think Fion will be a better scout then a cat." he says, the hawk on his shoulder flaps her wings proudly.

"Enialis!" Odilon says with a smile, "and Xan!" Odilon nodded, "Both fine additions to the patrol I attended to, now it seems we are to venture out again once more." Looking back to Jankar Odilon crossed his arms, "Well that's a brave and honorable task indeed. I'd be happy to bring the guidance of my Lord Hyx along with."

Jankar nods at each of the men as they gathered around him, piercing hazel orbs inspecting each of them carefully. They seemed like a good and capable group -- he was satisfied with the quick and reliable turnout. He recognized the monk Xannan and the older gentleman Odilon from their shared encounter with the lumberjacks. "Good to see you again, Xan and Odilon. Thank you for coming. Pleasure to meet you, Thorton and Ruffles. I expect us to be out about a day's walk from here; a good watchtower cannot be too far from its center." He acknowledged the cat with a gentle smile as he would have a person. Animals were invaluable companions to have, especially for missions like these. "A pleasure, Enialis and Fion. The lovely hawk will absolutely be a great help to us but do not underestimate the prowess of a cat. Unless there are any objections, let us take our leave while the sun is bright. We'll be heading north from here." He spoke like an experienced commander; it was clear that he had done this many times before.

Thorton gives the tiniest hint of a smile, trying his best to hide his pleasure at the kind words directed towards Ruffles.

"No doubt it is best to have as many pairs of eyes as possible. Ruffles can go low, Fion can go high."

Thorton picks up a small pack that he had set down during this conversation. It small and neatly kept, but looks well used and should probably be replaced soon. A keen eye would notice the mark of a seasoned but impoverished traveler.

"I am packed and prepared, Sergeant Ulmakina. I will accompany you north at your leisure."

Enialis nods solemnly,"As you wish, you are the sergeant after all. And I don't mind a high and low team up." he says, packing his backpack and following the party.

Anreyela enters


Hey Erret, the SUPER AWESOME STAGGERINGLY AMAZING INTREPED QUINTET OF DESTINY!! has returned with our signed sheets.

Also we met some tritons who said we should talk to one of their soldiers sometime, but we didnt have a chance to meet her.



Anreyela checks the board


Looks like everything else is done Erret, maybe just another night patrol?

This message was last edited by the player at 23:30, Thu 19 Mar 2020.

Though the sun cannot yet be seen over the wall east of the town, the sky has begun to brighten. From the Frosthide Inn, the bell notifying guests that breakfast is ready can be heard even in the town hall. As he pays her and her team, Smith says to Azucondie, "Young lady, it's morning. You lot have been out all night. If you wish, you and your friends can take a morning patrol, but be careful not to overdo it."

I think we need to get some rest, thus another night patrol.  If not we will see what tomorrow has.

Looking at her with a reassuring glance Alban replies, "We really should rest and recover now and prepare for another night patrol later tonight, Anreyela."

Alban turns towards Erret and asks, "Erret, I wanted to talk with you about building a workshop/living quarters space for myself here in town.  Have you giving any thought as to where you want the commercial buildings for the crafting trades to be built in town? I have enough money now to have an alchemy workshop to be built and almost enough to buy the living quarter areas; 100 gps. Would you agree to extend me a 100 gp line of credit to complete the construction costs for everything?  I really need a workspace to craft alchemy, potions, and magical items.  Boneclaw and I were thinking of building it near the cemetery you granted to him earlier.  Would you agree to this?"

Alban pauses a moment to let Erret respond and then asks, "Another matter I would ask you concerns acquiring a magic item formula from you or my guild.  I wish to craft or acquire a wand of magic missiles to help protect city better.  I do have some vials of frost spider venom collected from this last patrol to barter if it helps.  Would you help me in this matter?"



GM response to above from a private thread: As for the work/living quarters you would need:
50 gp for the initial living quarters for you
25 gp for the crafting room
50 gp for the crafting table
25 gp for the additional fireplace that would be needed for alchemy use
Totaling out to 150 gp for 1 living quarter & 1 work space with what you need to work.
For just you living here would give you the Modest lifestyle expense or lower you could choose from.


Alban would also like to add a second living quarters for either Boneclaw(business partner) or a guest for another 50gp; making the total 200gp (2 living quarters + workshop area to produce alchemy and potions, and potentially magic items in the future).




This message was last edited by the player at 20:06, Sun 22 Mar 2020.

Erret responds to the Alban's question,"Of course, Alban. Just sign this here contract promising no less than 1/5 of your wages from any job you take, until the sum is paid. I don't charge interest, but if the worst should happen to you out there before its paid off, ownership of the property will revert to me. In your case, if Boneclaw signs as secondary, the contract will revert to him in that case."

To his second question, "I can handle that. I know somebody in the city who might have what yer looking for, and if not, they can get it." He pulls out a pad and a quill, and works some figures, "so, between the cost of the formula itself, and what the couriers charge, should come out to 40 gold. It should arrive within a week." He pulls another contract from his desk. "Is that acceptable?"

Alban listens to Erret's terms; nodding his head in agreement at each point.  "That is more than acceptable terms and I accept on both counts."  He takes the contract from Erret and signs it with a smile.  "I Between Boneclaw and Jessop I doubt it will take long to pay you back, Erret.  This will be a good investment, I think, Erret.  A profitable partnership, in deed.  If there is anything you need or looking for please let me know, so that I might return the favor."

Reaching into his coin purse to Alban draws out 40gps for the formula and 100gps for the workshop. He hands them to Erret cheerfully.  "A good trade and I accept the terms for he formula.  Please let me know when it comes in.  I have a feeling once it does; I will be very busy around." He says with a smile and shaking Erret's hand to seal the deals.  Stifling a yawn Alban nods his head at Erret.  "Well, it's been a long night.  I shall be at the inn for most of the day resting for tonight's patrol if you need to talk with me. Good morning to you, sir." Alban says jokingly and makes his way out of the hall to the inn.

A tall humanoid figure, draconic in appearance, tentatively enters and speaks up,
"Hello, my name is Krivcrath Sparkfyre, I saw the notice on the board for Guard Duty. I just arrived and I was hoping to talk to a Mr. Erret Smith regarding joining for duty"

Smith takes a look at the big reptilian fellow and says, "That would be perimeter patrol, duty, friend. Sign up right here, Krivcrath, and I'll add you to the roster of the next patrol."

In reply to Erret Smith (msg # 257):
"Of course, but before that I just want to know what the terms of my employment are, including salary and a place to stay. Also, you can call me Kriv."
This message was last edited by the player at 12:12, Fri 27 Mar 2020.

Anreyela checks the job board again.


Good afternoon Erret, nothin new it looks like The quintet would like to get signed up for another night patrol if you got it.

A refreshed looking Sai walks in behind Anreyela. "Put me down for both an afternoon and an evening patrol, if they're available."

Alban returns to the town hall in time to join his companions in the conversation. He interjects, "I second that, Sai.  It would be good to get out of the lab for a while. If everyone is up for it?"  He looks around for Azu and says, "Anyone seen Hoot or Azu yet today?"

At that convenient timing, Hoot strolls up. Having gotten a good night rest and repacked his nesting supplies, he happily greets his friends: "SUPER AWESOME STAGGERINGLY AMAZING INTREPED QUINTET OF DESTINY!!"

Smith tells Kriv, "20 gp to circle the perimeter, visiting each watchtower twice. 5 extra for hazard pay, if you get caught in a storm or spend more than a few hours in the dark." He notice the Quintet of Destiny, "Hey, folks! This fella here is ahead of you on the roster. One of you is gonna have to wait for the next patrol to fill, unless you're all willing to risk splitting into two patrols of three."

I guess everyone can talk about that, but another encounter like that hag with just 3 would be pretty rough.

In reply to Erret Smith (msg # 263):

Kriv replied, "I accept the terms, and I'll gladly sign. I'll join the very next patrol, if that is alright"

Smith's jaw dropped,"You fought a hag? Well, glad to see you all made it back! A hag is no joke. I'm surprised she managed to slip past our triton allies unnoticed. Did she tell you her name?"

To answer Erret, Hoot mimics the hag's introduction: "Gaaaaze upon the magniiiificence of Fiiiishbone Saaaaally!"

Actually, he had almost forgotten about the hag after sleeping. He kind of wanted to go see if her tracks from last night were still there, so he could sneak back to her lair and see how it is. Since it seemed like the friends he met yesterday can't all go on patrol together anyways, Hoot can go do that instead. Now he just needs to pick the right words...

He starts by pointing to the rest of the party, then to Krivcrath. "If we get another... We might just get a lot of giggles as we would be a sextet." While pointing, he realizes that he hasn't said his name to the new person! Yesterday everyone said their names right away, so he makes sure to do that. "Name's [snowy owl call] by the way," which for good measure he follows up with "Chill out, my name is Hoot."

Then turning back to his party, he points to himself and then points to the general direction they fought Fishbone Sally. "I was loooooking for my lost pet." He then does his best to mime that he's going to go out and look for her lair (and maybe pet), but it kind of just looks like he's constipated.

01:03, Today: Hoot rolled 4 using 1d20-1.  Performance check (being a mime).

Anreyela looking at Hoot,

Hoot is apparently a better story teller than i am, of course the ogre didnt say much just charged and attacked

Answering Hoot, Alban points out, "The sea hag's lair may be underwater, along the beach, Hoot and may be hard to find.  She was a sea hag after all. That's assuming that line about trying to find her pet may have been a lie just to draw us into her trap."  He paused for a moment in thought and shrugs.  "Whatever the group decides is ok with me. "
This message was last edited by the player at 14:05, Sat 28 Mar 2020.

Correct Alban, but maybe one of the tritons could find it aand share if something was there?

Hmm, Alban makes a good point, so Hoot bobs his head to indicate understanding. "Laaaand-dwellers!" Hoot can't really breathe underwater.

Speaking of tritons, Hoot asks "Anyone seen one of the tritons?" To Erret, Hoot mimics an explanation: "I'm Lestros. If you spot some of my people patrolling the beach down south, that would be my mom's team. She's the captain, Peryn. We'll come find you tomorrow, at your village!"
This message was last edited by the player at 20:03, Sat 28 Mar 2020.

"Has anyone seen the Triton representative here in town?  According to Lestros they might be able to pass messages to Peryn about this matter."

"Oh! How could I forget such a thing! There is a Triton named Peryn looking for you all right now. As the embassy hasn't been finished yet, she is in the drawing room, just over there," Smith says, knocks on his desk, and gestures, in the direction of the drawing room. A nearby assistant makes eye contact with smith, nods, and says with a proper "customer service" smile, "I shall escort you, sirs and madams."

In reply to Erret Smith (msg # 273):
Krivcrath gently reminds Mr. Smith, "So, about my employment, I hope you noticed that I agreed to your terms. Could you tell me where to report?"

"You will report to the northwest watchtower, once you have a full group."
This message was last edited by the GM at 17:26, Sun 29 Mar 2020.

Azu ran up to where everyone was meeting. "Your star is here. I am ready for my part. Huzah!" Then she looked around. "Were is the Super Awesome SEXTENT of Destiny!?" Followed by required Animae Girl pose.

Anreyela heads over to the drawing room to meet Peryn.

Hello Peryn,  we met some of your kind on the beach last night.  They found a whale which had beached itself which we helped get back into the water.

The tough-looking triton woman smiles, "Oh, yes. Lestros told me about you! Beached whales are a serious problem for our beach patrols. They draw all sorts of dangerous scavengers. Plus, they're just plain pitiful, the way they look at you, all helpless and everything. You done a good thing, you and your friends. Since you made our jobs easier, the men and I decided you deserve this!"

She holds out a small, but heavy sack. It clinks with the familiar sound of coins.

Taking the bag

I will make sure everyone gets their share from the effort, we appreciate it.

Also we fought a hag name Fishbone Sally as she called herself.  Some have suggested that she might have had a lair or home with more stuff.  Not sure if you would be interested in having someone take a peek and splitting anything found?  We found her claiming her pet was lost (insert description of location on patrol).

I suspect that we will be doing another patrol tonight.  Any information on the shore line you think we should know or look out for?

Alban follows Anreyela into the other room and listens to the conversation between Anreyela and Peryn. He interjects, "Have you heard for this Fishbone Sally before or any of her conven?  Should we be expecting more hags along the southern coast areas?"


18:47, Today: Alban rolled 17 using 1d20+2.  persuasion check.

18:47, Today: Alban rolled 14 using 1d20+5.  investigation check.

18:46, Today: Alban rolled 8 using 1d20+4.  insight check.



This message was last edited by the player at 23:50, Sun 29 Mar 2020.

"Fishbone Sally? Thought she was just a tall tale we used to scare our children! You killed her, I take it? We'll see if we can find where she lairs. There are many underwater caves down there that have never been explored. I'd wager there are no other hags in the area now, but if one discovers she's dead, she may take her territory. As for the shore, you're not really supposed to be there, its well outside your patrol route, but since you've been so helpful, I'll give you some advice. First, there are many places on the south shore where the sea is frozen. Since it is covered in snow, it is practically impossible to tell where the land begins and the sea ends. But due to the occasional underwater magma vent, the ice is thin in places. For this reason, I'd suggest simply avoiding the south shore. If you fall through thin ice, you won't last long. Aside from that, watch out for polar bears. They're deadlier than the brown bears common in the forest. Also, if you ever see hundreds of crabs gathered on the beach at once, don't disturb them. They can be quite aggressive, and while the individual crab may not hurt much, hundreds can kill even a seasoned warrior."

Thanks for the Information we will keep that in mind for future patrols

The sack she handed you contained 25 gold coins.

The minstrel trudged along the path. His feet were sore, his clothes damp and soiled from days on the road, and his belly complained from a meagre diet of jerky, tack biscuits and dried fruits, He’d managed to forage the odd apple and berry along the way, but apart from that he’d had to make do with trail rations since departing for the north.

A new chapter, he’d told himself. New opportunities, new patrons, new women! Seemed like such a good idea when he departed, but now he was cold and hungry, and in need of rest. And a bath! Gods, he must stink more than an ogre’s armpit! Surely it couldn’t be much further now?

He carried on with his trudge, one soft boot rising and falling in front of its companion in a steady, rhythmic motion. As the hours wore by he crested a ridge and finally his dark mood broke. In the distance he saw the first signs of civilisation he had spotted for many days, smoke rising from chimneys. He shielded his eyes from the midday sun, plotting a route that would take him to his destination. Before long he would be at Smiths’s Gambit!

His pace quickened as he headed towards the newly growing town, a merry tune escaping from his lips. What would he find there? What adventures? A new place always brought new opportunities. Maybe this time he would try to avoid upsetting the husbands, but the married ones were always so much fun!

As he rounded the final turn and approached the edge of town his mind wandered to one final thought. New town, new name. Something heroic, something that would appeal to the punters. A bird perhaps? Crow? Eagle? No, Raven. A Moonraven perhaps? Yes, that would do perfectly!

Now, to find a tavern? Anywhere for a warm bath, a hot meal and a soft bed, and maybe some companionship if the Gods were feeling friendly.
This message was last edited by the player at 14:33, Thu 02 Apr 2020.

Smith's Gambit has no tavern yet, but the inn has a common dining area.

Elisar looked around. The settlement was small but growing, With evidence of labourers going about their tasks and building new homesteads all around. As his sharp eyes scanned he quickly identified the most likely option for the local watering hole. As he approached he spotted the sign... The Frosthide Inn.

Stopping outside he straightened his clothes, shook out his cloak and scraped some dirt from his boots. With that he opened the door and steeped inside.

——> To Frosthide Inn
This message was last edited by the player at 06:30, Sat 11 Apr 2020.

Izayah arrived back in town after his mapping journey with Galenna Keenbellow. He looked around slowly. Things had changed a bit in the days they'd been gone. First, he needed to go see about his cabin.

But then...he went to look at the job board again. He would need more money soon enough, especially since he wanted to learn how to craft some things.

Seeing the intriguing job that was all anonymous and mysterious, one eyebrow rose up. He stepped back outside and began to circulate word he was looking for experienced people to join him to see what the mystery and 'invaluable reward' was.

Izayah would be happy to hear from Smith that his cabin is finished. He is given a key and a copy of the deed, which shows the address. There is still only one main road in town, the same one that leads all the way back to Alemakia, so it's easy to find.

Wightvane also returned to claim ownership of his new cabin, and otherwise had very little in the way of preparations to make before it was time to head back out on another adventure.

After he finished speaking to Galenna he gave the little woman a moment with her group. Once they were done he approached. "Welcome back everyone! And to you miss," He looked toward the barbarian. "Welcome to Smith's Gambit! I'm Erret Smith, the governor here." He gave a big welcome to the newcomer and then continued. "The town has grown a bit since you've gone. We now have an Inn and many houses are being built. I also hear that we have an apothecary shop run by two of the newcomers to Smith's Gambit. I'm proud to see everyone taking such part to help our little settlement grow. It is quite something to see." He showed a proud smile then turned his attention back to the muscular woman before him. "Now then onto business. You wish to help broker a peace between us and your tribe I hear. I'll admit I'm always happy to gain new allies, especially those from the Rimewood itself."

——> from Frosthide Inn

Elisar stepped out into the afternoon sun. The air was chill but thankfully there was no wind. He wrapped his cloak around his body and began to walk. Sticking at first to the main strip he tried to identify what this town had to offer. He spied a range of stores selling goods, mostly functional items for builders and explorers as well as food items, nothing that immediately took his fancy.

Then he spied a noticeboard that intrigued him. It was a job board, used by employers to advertise for tasks that could be completed for gold. He read the notices quickly, scoffing at most. “Seems too much like hard work for me,” he chuckled under his breath. Still, some seemed a bit more interesting than others, and beggars couldn’t be choosers as they say; he might have need of some of those should the gold not flow in the inn.

After completing his tour of the town, which admittedly didn’t take too long, he found a suitable spot to begin his pitch. He pulled out his viol and struck an introductory chord. Then, in a loud clear voice he began his promotion. “Ladies, gentlemen and those of you yet to make up your mind! Tonight we have a special guest at the Frosthide Inn, come from afar to entertain you in the chill of the night. That’s right, the Moonraven is here for your delight! There will be tales of valour and woe! Songs of heroes and villains! Entertainment for all! So come! Come one, come all! Come to the Frosthide Inn this eve and make merry with the Moonraven!”

As he finished he struck up a merry tune on his viol and began to skip and dance along the street. He danced past the children playing in the gutters, the builders working on wood and stone, the housewives sweeping their steps and gathering vegetables from their gardens. And every so often he punctuated his tune with a shout of, “Come see the Moonraven at the Frosthide Inn!”

The towering barbarian woman seemed to have some trouble keeping up with everything what was being said by Governor Smith. She clearly wasn't stupid, but it quickly became apparent that the common tongue was normally not spoken among her tribe. She seemed to get some of the gist of things though.

"You... are chief." Again, she looked over the man. She did seem to have doubts. In her culture they clearly looked for different traits in their leaders.
"You want peace with Blue Scars. Good. Easy. Do not take of Blue scars herd. When tribe comes, I take you to Blue Scars chieftain. You speak. Show strength. Make peace."
This message was last edited by the player at 08:38, Fri 17 Apr 2020.

In reply to Neva (msg # 292):

"Aye you could say that. And I'll look forward to meeting the chieftain as well. As for now please enjoy the town and all it has to offer."

Izayah examined the job board for a long moment. Then he added a small note to the job board underneath the "anonymous note" job indicating he was looking for experienced allies to join him, and that he would be in the Frosthide Inn that evening and likely the next.

He walked out of the town hall and smiled at the slowly-disbanding group he'd traveled with. "Work's over, time for a drink! Take care all!" He winked at Neva as he passed her. "Welcome t'Smith's Gambit."

Elisar's performance draws quite a bit of attention, as people whispered questions about the Moonraven. Elisar got the distinct impression that nobody had ever heard of him. Unsurprising, considering he had only been using the name for a few hours. At least they seemed to enjoy his music.

Shivering slightly despite the layers of clothing as he entered the settlement the elf  made his way to what appeared to be the town hall. He begins asking around, or trying to over the music and avoiding the skipping bard. Muttering under his breath "Bards... always making noise and getting in the way, an elf can't hear himself think."

"Where would one go to find employment? And did I not see an inn over yonder?"

Smith greets the new elf, "Howdy, I'm Erret Smith. Welcome to Smith's Gambit. Job board is just over there, and the inn is across the street. If you find a job on the board that interests you, just talk to whoever posted it."

Mission accomplished. Elisar’s performance had at least got the locals whispering, and hopefully that might get a few of them into the inn for this evening’s performance. More coin for the inn meant more secure lodgings for him.

Once his sideshow was concluded he headed back to the Frosthide Inn, hoping for a hot meal before this evening’s show.

——> to Frosthide Inn

The tall thin man advanced along the path with a resolute stride. He sported short dark hair and a thick moustache. A stubble of three days on his cheeks and chin. When the settlement started to appear, over the hill, he couldn't help but to breathe a sigh of relief: "Not too far now", he muttered, forming little condensation clouds with each breath.

He looked up. A raven, circling above him, croaked in what sounded almost like approval. "Yes, yes, I know...", admitted begrudgingly. "But it is not like there was any other choice. Now, come down, Edgár." The raven, which somehow managed to emphatically fly in such a way to imply a bad mood, started to hover at a lower altitude, but did not approach. Józek just shook his head, unapprovingly.

Once reached the settlement, Józek started to look around. The pouch at his side, containing the few coins he managed to take with him before leaving his country did not seem particularly full, so he approached the locals, asking them if they knew of some job opportunity.

"A tall tanned human, you say? Looking for help?", he asked, nodding. "Izayah... at the inn... I see, many thanks." He followed his indications and proceeded to walk towards the inn.

---> To Frothside Inn
This message was last edited by the player at 18:00, Sun 19 Apr 2020.

In reply to Erret Smith (msg # 297):

"Job board, right."

He heads over and looks at the board. "Perimeter watch or anonymous note? Obvious choice. Patrol with a bunch of unwashed barbarians or a mystery."
 
Having made a decision he heads to the inn.

——> To Frosthide Inn

A road-weary man walks purposefully along the road, seeking the settlement he was dispatched to. After days of travel, his steps can no longer be described as energetic, but they are certainly still determined. His traveling cloak has apparently seen its share of dirt and abuse, but the wear is superficial as it had been diligently cleaned and repaired throughout its history. Slowly but surely, the buildings of the border town come into view.

Under his breath, he murmurs a prayer of thanks to Helm for the safe journey and makes his way to the large building that appears to have some import. Out in front stands a rather fancy looking gentleman, and Malkus approaches him without deliberation.

"Greetings, sir. I have been sent to this settlement to lend my strength where it may be most needed. Would you be so kind as to point me in the direction of your mayor or chief citizen?"

The man had been standing outside taking it the fresh morning air and the view of his ever-growing town. "That would be me, Erret Smith," he said. "How can I help you, this fine morning?"

Malkus quickly looks over Erret, before nodding his head in acknowledgement.

"I am Malkus. My Order seeks to destroy Evil, to maintain the rule of Law, and to defend those without the means to defend themselves. I have been instructed to travel to Smith's Gambit and to see Helm's Will carried out."

The formalities apparently out of the way, Malkus' features soften and his face betrays the beginnings of a smile. He looks around the growing town, taking in the atmosphere, before returning his attention to Erret Smith.

"I am here to serve as I am able, and to help protect those within your town, Mr. Smith. How may I be of assistance?"

"Well, we can always use folks to patrol the perimeter. I wouldn't recommend trying it alone, though," Erret says.
This message was last edited by the GM at 04:15, Tue 05 May 2020.

Malkus nods in agreement at Erret's suggestion.

"Yeah, I'll certainly be happy to join whatever detail you have patrolling the surrounding areas. I'll meet up with the next one. When should I plan to be here for the next one?"

"I wouldn't go far. Night patrol is just coming back," says Smith.

OOC: Time is stretchy. Even if you decided to spend all your gold staying at the inn for a few days, as long as you're in town, you can make it in time for this morning's patrol.

After a long rest, Xannan peruses the Job Board.
He then finds and speaks to Erret Smith.

"It appears many of the tasks on the board are either already underway or have a full group assigned to them.
I'm happy to start forming another Perimeter Patrol group, if needed."

"Wonderful!" said Smith. "You can join Malkus." he gestured toward the hooded man.

"Room for one more." says Enialis as he appears in Smith's Gambit and overhearing the conversation about another patrol,"I could use the extra gold today, if you have me."

"Yes, I am happy to join with the new Perimeter Patrol group. Thank you"

Smith smiles and says, "Of course, my friends! Xannan, Enialis, Malkus... that makes three... you should probably wait for at least one more, but its up to you."

Odilon walks in just as Erret makes his recommendation. "Setting up another patrol group Erret?" Odilon smiles as he see's Enialis and Xannan once more, "I'll join if you'll have me"

Enialis gives Odilon a thumbs up,"Good to have you again, I guess that makes four. Now we better head off with this Malkus fellow."

The sound of rumbling wheels and the clip-clop of hooves was announcing a new visitor. From within the woods appeared a wooden wagon drawn by a brown horse. Two coated figures were walking beside it on the path. As they came closer, one of the travelers removed their hood.

"Well, this is not so bad." The girl turned to her companion. "I expected, like, a freezing tundra where you have to kill a bear every morning to even get out of the house!"

"Yeah, but it's still really cold ..." The boy tried to cuddle up but his clothes were too thin for the job. "How in the world are you NOT FREEZING?"

"My heart warms me." The girl made a dash for it and landed promptly on the doorstep of the structure closest resembling an official building, roughly in the middle of Smith's Gambit. She cleared her throat, hauled off and quickly remembered that knocking doesn't mean punching the door.

Knock-knock!

As she encountered Erret Smith, a winning smile slided on her face. "Good morning, sir. My name is Chloe Nellington. This" - she pointed in the general direction of her companion who didn't even manage to show up yet - "is my partner Julius Swift. I'm a merchant trading wine. I hope you have some space for me left in your gorgeous little settlement."

Chloe will pay for the construction of a cabin for two people with one room including the fireplace + one additional room + stove.

Smith greets the young woman with a friendly smile, "Pleased to meet ya, Miss Nellington. I'm Erret Smith, and I'm happy to welcome you to our growing settlement! We'll get the paperwork out of the way, and construction on your house will begin immediately!"

"We have a deal then." Chloe signs the necessary contracts with her eloquent signature and whips out the payment. She presses a hundred shimmering gold pieces into the governor's palm.

Room with fireplace (-50gp) + extra room (-25gp) + extra stove (-25gp) = -100gp

"I'd like to use the front room as my future wine shop", explains the merchant. "For now there should be no complications in storing my wares in the rooms without having to inconvenience me or my companion. However, in the future I might be in need of a storehouse."

The sounds of an angry horse can be heard outside, followed by a boy screaming.

"As you can tell, Sir, my companion can handle things on his own. No doubt the construction will take its time." Chloe folds her arms behind her back. "In the meantime, I'd like to be of use. I am perfectly willing to put myself into danger if necessary. As long as HE isn't around to throw me off." She points, without even looking, over her shoulder at a nearby window where for some reason Julius just so happens to fly by. And it didn't look like he did it willingly. "He is a good boy, Sir, believe me. A heart of gold. But he has the luck of a headless goose and I don't want anything to happen to him. He best stays here where it's safe. With the wagon."

"We always need folks to help patrol the perimeter! Your partner is free to stay within the safety of our walls, long as he stays out of trouble. Just sign up here, and wait until there's enough for a full party."

Just then, a commotion comes from the direction of the Frosthide Inn. Three goblins dash out of front door, followed by Darla, who's reloading a heavy crossbow. They dash between the guards at the entrance to town, and disappear into the darkness beyond, as the guard fire their own crossbows at them.

Back in the settlement, Chloe is sitting next to Julius on the back of their wagon. She had to drag him out of the inn where he decided to take a rest from the cold but at least this gave her an opportunity to give Darla some updates. After hearing what happened and what might still come to pass, Julius raises some interesting points.

"At least not in the way you were planning to use it", he concludes. "I guess you could try to build a snare trap but those require elastic trees or somesuch to apply potential to the trap. I'm not sure if you can find such a thing around these parts."

"But if a rope is too thick what else could they stumble over?", Chloe wonders.

"I heard they use horse hair. Hair is extremely thin and wouldn't be easily spotted, not even in daylight. And it's extremely durable. Unless you cut it you won't be able to snap it in two. Those goblins might even lose a limb or a head if they are fast enough."

"Gotcha, so we need a horse!" Her head turns around to her animal companion.

The horse - his name is Frederick - squints at her warily.

"Frederiiiiiick, my friend!" Chloe grins like a little shit.

She draws her daggers. Not particularly good weapons for cutting so this might get awkward. Frederick doesn't deserve to be overwhelmed or tricked. Chloe slowly makes her way towards the horse and starts speaking softly.

"Look, buddy, I only need a bit of hair from your tail. It won't hurt but I might have to pull a little. Who's a good horse? Yes, you are. Don't worry, you don't need to fend of any annoying insects out here. You don't need it. Shhhhhh ... yes, fine boy. Your hair makes for an efficient trap. You might save lives, Freddy. Lives. You're a hero. Good boy."

Chloe will try to receive some horse hair from Frederick's tail at the risk of scaring the animal due to her unfit cutting tool. She tries to make the horse go along with it.

19:56, Today: Chloe Nellington rolled 10 using 1d20+3.  Animal Handling: Frederick.
This message was last edited by the player at 17:57, Wed 03 June 2020.

While all of that is going on, Julius searches Smith's Gambit for a capable fighter with nothing else to do for reinforcements.

Frederick turns to face Chloe, unsure what she plans on doing with those knives, but wanting to keep them where he could see them.

Smith sees Julius looking for reinforcements, and informs him that the Rimewood is bursting with goblins, more incursions are always expected, and there is already a team scouting the nearest known warcamp, but if he can help motivate people to go looking for trouble, he'll offer 10 gold to each adventurer who takes part in hunting down the goblin who stole from Darla, and an additional 5 if they're back with proof by morning.

This message was last edited by the GM at 03:09, Thu 04 June 2020.

A thought enters Chloe's mind. Julius was right about what strings of hair can do but both of them neglected to consider one thing.

Frederick's hair just isn't long enough.

"Okay, I get it", she says to the horse. "Even if we knot the strings together the knot will never ever hold."

Frederick shakes his head violently.

"And you're telling me I should leave the outlandish ideas aside."

The horse freezes, then nods heftily.

"Fine." She puts the knives back. "I'll just get regular ropes and hope we can somehow camouflage them."

Frederick snorts in relief.

Malkus wearily makes his way back to Smith's Gambit with the others, and heads over to the town hall. He presents the grisly trophy from the final goblin. "There are less goblins, fishmen, and wolves around, now. The roast was not worth saving, however. We took this as recompense. I'm not sure what the foot marking represents, but maybe it is not unfamiliar to you? Regardless, where would you like it?"
Malkus holds the head out to Erret, only half expecting him to actually reach for the wretched thing.