New Thread.

In reply to Birahu the Black (msg # 1):

After the party at the Townhouse, there were preparations to be made to go to Pindangoogly. It was a two day trip, are you walking or buying horses?

Having found riding to be a pain in the rump both literally and figuratively, Sister Piestar doesn't relish returning to the saddle unless needed.

If someone wanted to get a wagon however, she would be willing to pitch in.

Ulle prefers to feel the earth under his feet, he will walk.

When the others finally catch up with Kossoth he informed them with a shake of his head, "Caravans have already left or they will be arriving in a week or two...so nothing."

Raising an eyebrow towards Ulle he asked with a look of distaste in his mouth, "Did that...Archmage...have a job?"

"Why sour? Mage going to much help my tribe, after job. He want us go to Gnome town, find out why mines stopped. Dig up quartz, he says."

Checking his equipment, Ulle was preparing for the journey to Pindangoogly.

"He paying us, fifty lions! You no want his money, I can send it to my tribe."

With a shake of his head he added, "Mages are nothing but dangerous trouble at best.  I hope your tribe is taken care of like he says."

A sigh later he added, "Fifty lions?  I'll take his coin for my own clan but mark my words...this will be more troublesome than expected.  What one mage wants so does another."

Ulle shrugs, money forgives many sins he had found. The witch-doctor of his tribe was a good woman, wise in many things. Only her prediction of the hard times allowed his tribe to be prepared, and survive it.

"Work is work. When my tribe settles, I can return to family. Until that day, I work."

Kossoth grunted noncommittally to the work is work comment but nodded and grinned on a topic of far more agreement between the two of them, "Then I need to make sure that you stay alive to return to that family."

A broad grin crossed Ulle's face at the comment, which was about as close to affectionate that manly men got, when sober. But it also brought a new thought to the front of the warriors mind.

"Why, Kossoth travel far from home? Ulle hopes it is desire, and not need. Home is Ulle's center, core and heart. Not true for all."

Astrid listened quietly to the exchange; interested in what was at the root of his issues with mage-kind.

Much as herself, Kossoth had an unusual eye color for his race.   One that, she was fairly sure, marked him as having the blood of the Suel.

There was irony in someone of their blood despising others for the use of magic. With the utter cataclysm they had to their credit, and their irresponsible, far over the top practices...

Staying late, Sister Piestar enjoyed the fare offered by the mage, but food and beverage, though staying well to the safe side of intoxication.

Not wishing to embarrass herself in front of the high powered magus, she abstained from using her usual tricks of chilling the drinks, or summoning a glass.

When the night had died down, she offered to help clean up before leaving.

"My home is a wasteland of dust and choking ash." replied Kossoth as he contemplated the words that he would need to say to tell his story in the local tongue.  After much time he began.

"My clan survives, barely, by recovering broken bits of the bastard magic users that brought down hell on the Baklunish Empire and in turn those bastard magic users brought down their wrath on the Suel Empire.  Neither side cared about the common man living in either place then and the Sea of Dust and Hellfurnaces care not for those that still make it their home."

Shaking his head he added, "They risk their lives at the behest of magic users looking to recover those lost powers, arts and artefacts so that they can live a little better than the barest survival we can eek out there.  I want to make sure that they can ignore the debased fools who trust in that magic and will always over time make excuses for abusing it and eventually be corrupted completely by it."

The dark and dismal tale sank in slowly, as Ulle tried to comprehend the events of which Kossoth spoke. And even then his grasp was no doubt far short of the actual tragedy.

"Leave suck a place, your people should. If they can. Are they bound to the land, by tradition, or the spirits of their ancestors?"

He suspected Birahu could help them leave, but he doubted Kossoth would accept such aid from one he deemed corrupt. In Ulle's experience, magic was as magic did, much the way his spear could kill for good or for ill. It was but a tool. Clearly to Kossoth it was more, and who was Ulle to say he was wrong. Such things were beyond his ken. He only knew the powerful seldom cared for the common people, with or without magic at their beck and call.

"Some of the clans are bound by tradition, some by the spirits of their ancestors.  Mine is one of the few that is bound there by spiteful magics.  They cannot leave as their very lifeforce is bound to the land and it is passed from father to son, mother to daughter in various strengths."

Shaking his head he added, "There seems to be no rhyme or reason except regardless of how tethered one is to the land the more powerful one gets the sooner they must never leave the land.  I will need to use my time out here well before I am pulled back some day as well.  The legends of my own people are too vague to say if it was merely a bastard magic user of immense power rivalling the Gods or some sort of Demigod or God beseeched by one of the ruling magus lords but the simple fact is I must live by it like my kin."

Enslaved by magic most foul, Kossoth was a prisoner of the fate, thru no fault of his own.

"To break Such a curse would be a great thing. But would it not take magic to do so? It is too much for me. I will embrace our time together brother, and mourn when you must leave."

The similarities to their lives paths was not hidden from Ulle, the differences as well. Ulle wished to be home, but was forced to travel, whereas the home of Kossoth was a wasteland and his ability to travel limited, though clearly the desire strong. It was indeed a strange world.

Astrid had listened in silence while Kossoth related his own people's story and plight.

So much of her knowledge of the Suel pertained to their ancient empire. She knew a great deal less about their descendants, their remnants, in the present day.

Parts of it surprised her. Even shocked her some. It was quite a bit to take in, and gave her some things to think on.

She really couldn't help saying:

"Do you know why it is human mages sometimes reach pinnacles of power, that elves do not?  Even when we are so renown for our talent in the art?  And have many more decades in which to learn?   It is because we know where to stop. Where the lines must be drawn. It is in our lore.  Human occultists too often see magic as being beyond, even superior, to Nature. Instead of a part of it, which must be balanced with the whole."

"We warned the Suel magi. Ardently.  More than once. And they would not listen.  Slaves to their vaulting ambitions; a dire example that intelligence and wisdom are not the same thing."   

As the dinner guests leave the wizard's home together, Kestrel listens to the brief discussion on whether horses should be purchased. Hearing Sister Piestar and Ulle speak up for walking, Kestrel adds, "I would prefer to walk as well. The distance is not far, and it is easier to be stealthy, if needed.

Shall we take our leave tomorrow or the day after? I am able to leave quickly, but if we need to gather supplies, let's do that tomorrow.

I can meet you at your inn tomorrow morning.

A pleasant evening to you all."

The ranger will head to his inn, after answering any questions posed.

PM

Kossoth couldn't help but respond with, "Taint does not limit itself to the pinnacles of power.  It seduces, corrupts and insidiously twists everyone from the strongest to the weakest regardless of some self conceived lines not to cross or assumed superiority of wisdom.  Your kind is no exception; every race falls...yours just has more time to do it."

With a soft sigh he looked over to Ulle, "While the others come together I am going to get some fresh air out of town.  I will join with you when you actually head out of town." to which he began to head out of town to clear his mind.

With a shrug Ulle watched the tall man's receding back. Once he was well out of earshot, he turned to Astrid.

"Deep wounds, has that one. Be wary Magic lady, he is dangerous."

The implication that he was also unbalanced hung silently between them.,

The Flan warrior smiled, then headed for the inn.

She nodded once at Ulle's admonishment, simply concurring "Aye."

And then she too head for the inn.

Dain -- having consumed copies amount of refreshment and food and said nothing -- claps his hand on Cal's arm to signify wishes for a good evening.  He then goes to the inn, intent on sleeping and returning at the designated time the next morning.

Cal smiles and shakes his head slightly, pleased that Dain seemingly endured the pleasantries of the evening.

He follows the dwarf to the inn.

The path to Pindangoogly soon takes you off the main road and onto a small dirt path. There are two obvious, parallel grooves in the dirt along this path, showing full well that a wagon of a particular size travels this way regularly. The path twists into the hills, mostly along valley bottoms, crossing small streams and moving through patches of young spruces and by patches of wildflowers of all colors. The only sounds in the area are songbirds and an occasional babbling brook. The beauty of the clear areas, the smells of the flowers and trees, and the quiet, relaxing sounds remind you of why these are called the Good Hills.


The wagon comes through every 4 days, but none have come in 6 days.
This message was last edited by the GM at 14:42, Thu 02 Dec 2021.

A short distance in front of the others, Ulle has his spear in hand. Occasionally he drops to one knee to check something he sees on the ground, checking for tracks, especially as they leave streams, to see if anything unusual had passed that way.
This message was last edited by the GM at 20:47, Wed 01 Dec 2021.

Kossoth kept a good distance ahead of even Ulle to ensure they aren't caught unawares, perhaps even catching any ambushers before they realize it, but also more to not have any more conversation with the witch in the group for awhile.  She had skills beyond the tainted magic which he had to respect but it was still hard for him to reconcile.

Luckily his legs were long and he had plenty to concentrate upon...to the others it might sound peaceful and quiet but to Kossoth it was still an alien world keeping him on his toes constantly.  His bow was in hand and he made sure his quiver was easily accessible if he needed to strike quickly if he surprised an enemy or if somehow he had gone past them and they hadn't noticed him either and he had to engage from a distance.

In reply to Kossoth Zan (msg # 27):

Kestrel found the dirt path to Pindangoogly a welcome change from the city, it wasn't the Silverwood, but it was much closer than any human city would ever be.

The elf expected to take the lead, but seeing the odd man, Kossoth, moving far ahead and Ulle looking for tracks ahead of the main group, Kestrel decided to take up the rear.

He stayed 15 or 20 paces behind, and travelled at the edge of the trail or even just off the trail. If something, or someone dared to attack their sizable group, he would likely have an opportunity to circle around the attacker.

~Staying behind everyone will let me listen to the sound of nature, which I have missed. And, if anything comes from behind, I might hear it!~ he thought to himself as they paced toward the gnomish village.

Dain ambles along, silently, apparently lost in thought.

You have a wonderful day of travel, the weather cooperated greatly! Gorgeous day! Kossoth comes along on a cold campsite, just off the road, apparently where the quarz caravan camped on the way to Cryllor, about an hour before sunset.

Moving back to the others he stopped by Ulle, "I found the former camp of the caravan that goes through here.  Good a place as any for softer folk.  Easy sightlines for our small band."

Looking back towards the cold campsite he added, "I will scout the area around to make sure there are no surprises waiting for night to fall."

With a grunt and a nod, Ulle signals his understanding. Turning he lets the others now that a good campsite had been found.

"Kossoth found campsite, we set up there. Good?"

Assuming there is no dire urge to push on, the ranger will examine the campsite, looking for firewood and setting up a slit trench for 'party business'.

Uncertain which was worse, the sore rump from a day on horseback or the sore feet of a days walk, Piestar sighs relief at the thought of a camp.

She would have spent the bulk of the day either chatting with Caedfel, whose company she enjoyed at Birahu's festivities, or Astrid, whose tales of travels and her times among the elves.

At the camp, she would remove her shoes, and massage her feet, moaning about the desire for a hot bath, or at least a hot pot of water to soak her poor tootsies.

Kestrel builds a fire in the well-used stone ring. Out of habit, he confirmed that the old ashes were cold.

Once the fire is burning, he will place his baldric, bow, and pack on the ground before settling on one of the logs already placed around the fire pit. He pulls some rations from his pack and starts his evening meal.

"There's probably no point in hunting, seeing as we should be in Pindangoogly tomorrow, and will be eating at an inn.

But we should keep watch through the night." He looks around the camp and does some calculating in his head.

"There's enough of us for four watches...three groups of two and one on their own. And there's enough of us with darkvision to be on all four watches.

I suggest, Piestar and Caedfel; Astrid and Ulle; Kossoth and Dain; and I will watch on my own."

---

Please feel free to amend, I figured it was worth it to work this out and then we can assume the same groups/orders moving forward.

A bit shocked at the thought that she shou8ld do guard duty, Sister Piestar chokes a bit on her food, but can't really think of a reason to say no. Well, she had plenty of reasons, just none of them good ones.

Taking a sip of wine to dislodge the chunk of food, she nods.

"That... that sounds good. Yes. We should to that."

Cal raises his hand as if to clap Piestar on her back to dislodge the obstructing food.  She manages to clear her throat on her own before he can, so he withdraws his hand.

Eventually Kossoth comes into the light of the fire that has been set.  After glancing at everyone present he found himself a seat, unsurprisingly as far from Astrid as he could while still being around the fire with everyone else, before he spoke up, "No one sitting in ambush or were to previously watch or attack the caravan when it rested here."

Astrid had been enjoying the environs as well.   Amongst other things, paying a certain amount of attention to the local fauna and flora.

The latter was professional interest; Master Birahu had told her to be on the lookout for any herbs and plants of use or interest to them.

And the former was a means of staying informed;  she being learned enough in animal lore to read from their behaviors various things which might be relevant.

And now she listened to the others.   She had a long stick in one hand, that she had found.  With it, she was tracing stately, eldritch looking figures in the dirt.


She glanced up when Kestrel spoke of watch shifts.

"Surely.  I'll be happy to take my turn.  Though, it is needful that Piestar, Cal, and I get sufficient rest, however we break it up."

In reply to Astrid Silverveil (msg # 39):

Who has which watch!

While he wasn't necessarily suggesting the order, maybe just use the order Kestral listed them, just to remove prolonged debate?

Piestar and Caedfel; Astrid and Ulle; Kossoth and Dain; Kestral last.

In reply to Dain Strongaxe (msg # 41):

okay.

In reply to Nerull (msg # 42):

Ulle and Astrid roll for surprise to see what you see, a sneaky devil!
This message was last edited by the GM at 13:27, Sun 05 Dec 2021.

Astrid Silverveil rolled 4 using 1d6.  surprise.

With Elf keen senses, Astrid took in the sum of what there was to be seen, heard, smelled, or felt.   Alert for any telltale sign that might suggest they were going to have company...

While he did not have the night vision of an Elf or a Dwarf, the Flan ranger had spent much of his like in a world where night was dark, and Ulle relied more on his other senses to protect him.

20:48, Today: Ulle rolled 2 using 1d6 ((2)). Surprise

In reply to Ulle (msg # 45):

An hour after you come on watch you hear the noises as a large black bear starts rooting through packs and bags looking for food! He appears to be quite hungry! You also notice in the light of the fire that he wears a collar!

Kossoth slept quietly on the ground and unaware of the animal named Ted Bedderhead rooting around the campsite.  Maybe he was looking for his glasses and guitar while just looking like he was hunting for food.  With a small yawn he rolled over just as quietly.

The sight of the collar bothered Ulle more than anything else, who had dared to enslave this noble creature, and even worse, after doing so, not feed it properly.

"Bear!" he cried out, to warn everyone.

Astrid's fingers dipped into her belt pouch, and into the sand* which lay therein.

She was prepared to weave a spell of sleep;  if the ursine could be made to slumber, there would be no need to harm it, and they could take a look at that collar. However, just before she did, she peered at the animal, striving to get a sense if this was simply a matter of foraging and hunger, as it appeared to be...

Astrid Silverveil rolled 10 using 1d20.  Animal lore @16.

PHB:  This proficiency enables a character to observe the actions or habitat of an animal and interpret what is going on. Actions can show how dangerous the creature is, whether it is hungry, protecting its young, or defending a nearby den.

I'm trying to get an idea, quickly.   I will cast sleep, unless anything I see suggests it may not be a good idea.

*Don't ya just hate sand?  It's dry, coarse, and gets everywhere...   
This message was last edited by the player at 00:41, Tue 07 Dec 2021.

Spear in hand, Ulle turns away from the camp and begins to look for anyone with the bear.

Astrid senses that the bear is simply hungry, looking for food like he's starving. He keeps an eye on Astrid and Ulle but keeps eating!

It has been some years since Cal was in the military -- and he wasn't a very good soldier.  So, being alert while asleep is not his forte.  He does not get up at the single cry warning of the ursine menace.

Dain is up in an instant, a hand axe appearing in his hand so fast that one might think he slept with it.

As he looks about assessing the threat, he reaches for his battle axe with his free hand.

In reply to Dain Strongaxe (msg # 53):

You see a glint on the bears neck, something hanging from a collar.

In reply to Nerull (msg # 54):

It 'talks' to you with a bear growl but continues to eat. Completely non-threatening!

Astrid waffled; uncertain whether to cast the sleep spell or no.

She made a scrunch face expression, and an upturned hand gesture in Ulle's direction, silently asking what do you think we should do here?   

It was a splendid animal.  Albeit bears made dire opponents, and could grow angry very quickly.   This one, however, might well be trained to some degree, what with the collar.

An unusual animal companion, for any normal person.  It could've suggested a druid, save for the collar.   They didn't adorn their animals with the trappings of civilization, and domesticity, usually...

"Has collar, not alone. Look for others now." Ulle said to Astrid, as he did just that.

Astrid nodded once to the stout hearted tribesman, and continued to keep an eye on the ursine.  Ready to cast if it became needful.

While it was of course possible the bear's master was unfriendly, she was beginning to suspect not.  Its comfort around people suggested that it was both well cared for, and not encouraged toward aggressiveness.
This message had punctuation tweaked by the player at 03:44, Wed 08 Dec 2021.

Ulle's short shout was alarm enough to pull Kestrel to fully awake. He was standing in an instant, sword drawn, as he surveyed the situation.

Seeing Ulle watching beyond the perimeter of the camp, Astrid and Dain watching the beast, but not taking hostile actions, and then spotting the collar, Kestreal asks, "Is it tamed?"

As he watches the bear munching on food in the camp, Kestrel, says "I have an idea."

Fashioning a lasso with his rope, he places the loop on the ground, and then drops some open rations within the circle of rope. He then tries to draw the bears attention to rations.

---

If bear eats rations, tighten lasso and hope that it is leash-trained! Rope Use as NWP, not sure if I need to roll anything?

Always a light sleeper, the hub-bub awakens the good Sister, and she rubs her eyes as she looks around to see what is going on.

The bear goes for the rations, very hungry.

What do you do?

Astrid pushed her fingers into the sand within her pouch, and then let it trickle through them.  Making a slow, repetitive gesture with the other hand, and whispering in the arcane tongue.

Casting sleep on bear.    She said to Kestrel:

"Clever, but risky. Let's just put him down, gently. We won't lose too much food this way, and can have a close look at the collar."   
This message was last edited by the player at 16:24, Wed 08 Dec 2021.

In reply to Astrid Silverveil (msg # 62):

The bear yawns and lays down quite comfortably and goes to sleep. You go to see the collar and what it says, but you don't understand, it is in another language than Astrid speaks. Dain and Kestrel have a look,

[Language unknown: Plngolec u asli hat, m Vercomall.]
This message was last edited by the GM at 16:33, Wed 08 Dec 2021.

I do know Gnomish, if it's in that tongue.   My languages changed slightly after I learned you aren't making us pay NWP for all the racial tongues. 

In reply to Astrid Silverveil (msg # 64):

Then you can read it now.

Astrid glanced to Pie, indicating the bear with a hand.

"Isn't he just a darling, handsome fellow?  Such a profile - and that coiffure!"

In general: "Perhaps we should leave him the food that was in the snare, for when he wakes up?  And then move the rest of it."
This message was last edited by the player at 17:29, Wed 08 Dec 2021.

Kossoth continued to sleep as he had before the bear showed up, or at least it appeared to be that way.

"Hmmph," Dain says.  With this crisis averted he says, "Wonder if anyone's lookin' fer 'im."

Crawling over, Piestar also gives the bear, and the collar, a look.

Pleased that there would be no need to hurt the bear, Ulle tries to find it's tracks, and see if he can follow them back some short way to maybe see where he came from.

Kestrel nods at the mage's suggestion, but does not move his rope. Once the bear has fallen into slumber, Kestrel asks Astrid, "How long will this last?"

He will slip rope through the collar and tie it off at the nearest large tree or boulder.

"With only a few minutes before the spell ends, and given how dark it is, we are best to move far enough that Boddynock, here cannot reach our packs. Perhaps we should build our fire up too?

Astrid, when the bear wakes, I suggest you speak to him in gnomish, it may calm him."

Looking to the other ranger, Kestrel calls out, "Don't wander too far, Ulle, the night is still young."

As he moves his own things away from the bear, he leaves the rations next to the bear. He also gives Kossoth a gentle shake, to wake the warrior. "Kossoth, be aware, we have a bear for company!"

As he settles back to rest, he ponders, "A bear tamed by a gnome...I wonder if Boddynock's owner has run into problems with the kobolds that Birahu mentioned?"

---

If the watches run from 10pm to 6am; this all occurred at 1am so it is probably pitch-black! Also given that the DM has said that elves require only 4 hours of reverie Kestrel can be part of watch 3 as well as 4.

Nodding to Kestral, Ulle continues to check for tracks. He has no intention of going too far, but even a sense of the direction the bear came from would be useful information.

In reply to Ulle (msg # 72):

Too dark to track him Ulle, with a torch you can see he was wandering and smelled your fire and food. He came to tuck away as much as he could.

Kossoth's eyes opened smoothly and his head turned slightly to regard Kestrel and what he had said.  With a simple nod in understanding he rolled over and reached out to pull his quiver of arrows closer as well as his compound bow as he regarded the now sleeping bear.  After a few moments longer he got up and quietly collected his things.  In short order he moved to just beyond the edge of the firelight where he disappeared into the darkness.  He was moving so slow that it was unlikely he was going far and more likely setting up a position to defend if anything else came.

The rest of the night passes quietly and when you wake up your party is bigger, but bearly. ;-)

Come morning Kossoth heads out as soon as he can to scout, even if the group isn't ready to leave yet, to find out if anyone had been watching from the dark beyond the campfire and to get an idea of where the bear had come from.  Though he wasn't going to stray too far since unless more came to light they had a job to do and it was at least another day away travel for the slower individuals in the group...

In reply to Kossoth Zan (msg # 76):

You only find his meandering trail after looking close, he was truly just hunting for food, he got a whiff on the wind and went in search until he found you. The wind didn't really blow in one direction in here for some reason, mostly, but not always. No sign of anyone else watching though. Just bear tracks.

The party breaks camp and breaks their fast, sharing with Boddynock their rations. He eats like a bear. He takes easily to Ulle and Astrid because they fed him the most, but he was friendly to all. The biggest danger was getting cut by a claw when he knocked you over to give you a kiss!
This message was last edited by the GM at 17:33, Thu 09 Dec 2021.

"Such a sweetie!  His temperament speaks well of his gnomish caretaker and trainer.  And Kestrel raised a good point, regarding that person - where are they?   Such an unusual, well trained pet wouldn't be left to wander.  However, Boddynock shows no signs of recent trauma, either.  It is a little puzzling..."   

She addressed the animal: [Language unknown: "Thoil, omrifoat ers ad ncac anpo mo ev ientne enteenure ithebe t ss. Olsele mo ted ninite? M neac adad tedingint oveol, nd ilame t, u any, pe ent..." ]

As they head out, Ulle takes point again. He wonders at the bears presence, but not overly so. It was a much gentler version of the species than he was used to.

Kestrel, again takes the rear position in the group. He sticks to the edges of the road, and frequently disappears in the trees watching for anything suspicious.

Boddynock walks beside Ulle. Seeming to have chosen him at the moment. A source of food.

Kossoth as before stayed a good distance in front of Ulle reading the path and smelling the world around to detect things before they surprised him.  His long legs made it easy to keep up front and just as easily retreat if confronted with numbers too large to deal with.  While he was good back home convincing the animals to deal with him rather than run or attack these strange creatures here he had little to no experience with.  Better to observe and figure out before sticking his hand in only to realize at the last moment that it is actually fire.

Scratching the bear behind the ear, Ulle hopes they find a stream from which to try and gather some fresh fish for his new companion.

Dressed, tummy full from a warm breakfast and caffeinated up with a mug of strong tea (with honey), Sister Piestar is ready to hit the road once again. She certainly hopes they reach town soon however, and can find a place to soak her sore feet.

Tending to stick near Astrid, she will wander away when Kestrel and the Grey Elf confer, still nervous around him and uncertain if she should be intruding into what she thought might be Full-Elf business.
This message was last edited by the player at 03:21, Sun 12 Dec 2021.

You travel the rest of the day uneventful and get to Pindangoogly around 5:00, the town appears empty! but you hear loud noises from the tavern.

Astrid cocked her head, listening to the noise: "Hark, allies -- I believe that's destiny we hear knocking?    Either in the form of a party too good to miss, or an idiot drunkard without coin or patron for another round?  Only one way to know for sure -- "

With no more ado, the intrepid mistress of spell, sword, & social shenanigans began to head for the tavern...

The idyllic beauty that you have been used to seems to wane as you round the next hill. Nestled between a few smaller, rolling hills in a miniature valley lies an area devoid of trees. The underbrush has grown thick here, except for a small clearing in the center of the valley, where a small stone well stands. Lying next to the well is a wooden cart, on which the wheels match the track in the path you have followed for the last few days. Small shovels, picks, and buckets litter the clearing, and can be found sticking out of bushes. Rabbits are jumping everywhere, exploring the cart and finishing off patches of wildflowers. No one can be seen.

As you continue through the abandoned town, the sounds of laughter, tavern music, and dancing on wooden floors brushes past you as a breeze. You move around a hill to find a larger barn-sized wooden building, built into the side of the hill. An ornate, four foot high wooden door leads directly into the hill. Seated right next to the door is a large stone with a flat surface. Upon the surface is painted the rear end of a rabbit as it jumps down a hole. The door to the hill is slightly ajar, and the inviting if somewhat putrid smells of an alehouse full of revelers waft forth.

The Rabbit Hole Inn

The cute, charming sign was an example of the sort of thing that Astrid loved about human culture.  As for gnomes, were different in so many regards, but the sense of humor shared more in common than either race would probably want to admit.

But, the smell an example of what she didn't  like.   Didn't gnomes tend to practice better hygiene?  Mine workers notwithstanding-?

Her nose wrinkled, "Bleh.  Ugh!  Well, that sure dampens my zeal!"  Scowling, hesitating, whether she wanted to go into this place at all.    She did have a scarf in her pack, with which she might cover her nose and mouth...
This message was last edited by the player at 19:23, Sun 12 Dec 2021.

The sight of the rabbit's hole, as it jumped into a rabbit hole caused Ulle to chuckle. It reminded him of adolescent jokes about rabbits that other cultures might have made about horses or camels. If that was an example of Gnomish humor, he would enjoy their company.

The low door sill however, was not quite so pleasing, and the Flan warrior was not, by any stretch, the tallest member of the party.

Poking his head in the door, he calls out. "Hey, do you allow bears in this place?" Half curious, because he did not want to leave the bear alone outside, and half curious if the person who collared the animal might be inside.

As the group approaches the village, Kestrel moves to join the main group. Glancing over the small valley as they approach, his face pinches at the sight.

"Typical, I suppose for miners...cutting down every tree...all this brambly brush is because the trees are gone.

That's odd," he notes pointing at the tools lying all around, "Most workers take care of their tools, regardless of what their work is. And from what I know of gnomes they are generally a thoughtful people."

As the pass through what looks more and more like an abandoned town, Kestrel is troubled to hear the sounds of revelry coming from the tavern.

"This is not right," he mutters. The elf stops to examine the ground, looking for tracks that do not belong, specifically, kobold tracks.

If he spots kobold tracks: Kestrel calls out, "Hold up!" to his companions and will show them what he found.

If he does not spot kobold tracks, he will follow his companions toward the tavern, he will draw his sword before reaching the door, and will pause before entering.

---

Not sure if you will just play this out in posting order or not.

You are greeted by cheers and such by hundreds of gnomes! Half a dozen kids rush Boddynock and start hugging him and he snorts his happiness in greetings to the gnomes. They obviously understand his speech!

The Inn itself is packed with gnomes of all ages, from babes in arms to doddering elders, all of them partying as if it was Brewfest! They are drinking freely and singing off-key, and, if the bucket that was just emptied on your heads is any sign, playing pranks with abandon. They all turn and laugh heartily as you are drenched, a serving girl pressing mugs into your hands as you stand there dripping. "Welcome to the Rabbit's Hole Inn! Relax! Enjoy! That was a bucket of our finest beer we just served you," smiles the young gnome, "Here's on you can drink the normal way!" Voices call out inviting you in as you consider an appropriate response.

As you look around, the place is quite crowded, nowhere to stand even barely, let alone sit!

An older fellow, so drunk he can hardly stand, takes notice of your plight. "Oy, you big folk havin' trouble? Sittin' on tables? Stuff'd too small fer ya? 'Sokay. We gotcha covered. We got the Big Room!"

"The Big Room!" the entire village calls back, laughter heavy in the air. Instantly about six young men go running to one side of the inn and open a door, leading to the barn sized wooden room you saw from the outside.

"Come on!" the men call. "Things are closer to your size over here!" They look inviting, but the sounds of a village's stifled chuckling never sounded so ominous before.

PARTY!
This message was last edited by the GM at 16:36, Sun 12 Dec 2021.

Kestrel's suspicions are thankfully dashed by the bucket of beer splashing across his face. He steps back out to sheathe his sword, and wipe his face, before returning to the doorstep in time to be handed a mug of beer.

"What's the celebration for?" he asks the serving girl.

In reply to Kestrel Duskwalker (msg # 92):

"We're sad. So we're having a party!" she says in reply.
This message was last edited by the GM at 13:38, Mon 13 Dec 2021.

"What a waste of good beer," Ulle said, licking his fingers clean. Stooping low to find under the lintel, Ulle entered the room, then headed for the big room, figuring the best way to move forward was to fall for the wee ones pranks and get them over with.

Well sadness would explain Kestrel's observation about the discarded and poorly cared for tools. She suspected the sadness would have something to do with their reason for being sent here, but there was no reason to rush things. Let them tell the tale in their time and manner.

It had been awhile since she had needed to stoop so low to pass through a doorway, but after those in front of her had entered, she would join them, passing, one assumes, into the big room as well.

She had met a few gnomes in her time, though not in their own environs, and the sight of everything being their size, instead of her own, was a unique experience, and one that wasn't all together pleasant. It made her wonder how it felt when they traveled to the lands of her own folk though. Was it easier to be small in the world of the large, or the other way around? She wasn't sure.
This message had punctuation tweaked by the player at 13:47, Mon 13 Dec 2021.

In reply to Ulle (msg # 94):

Inside the big room, everything is huge. The tables, the chairs. Chairs are table high, tables chest high, a true reminder of how it is for gnomes in a human tavern. They laugh and start climbing into the chairs and on the tables, partying off their little asses!

Cal isn't so sure that "mining problems" are the sole cause of the sadness, so he asks:

"What's making everyone sad?"

Kossoth had to truly bend low to enter the small door and was grateful he hadn't been Ulle and had beer dumped on his head.  When they had been taken to the 'big' room it wasn't that much of an inconvenience for him.  Still he spent plenty of time listening to the chatter of the 'sad' gnomes partying as well as those that were answering the questions his group members were asking.

In reply to Kossoth Zan (msg # 98):

They won't answer the question. They prank you instead! Whoopie cushions, ventriloquists making sounds come from you, etc. They want to be drunk!

Struggling her way up on to one of the large chairs, and dutifully sitting upon one of the whoopee cushions, Sister Piestar picked out one of the more senior Gnomes and gestures subtly. A very unhappy bee appeared in his hair, and looked as if it just might sting him!

"Ummm... we were sent by Birahu? I doubt he would appreciate such silliness, when you should be working."

In reply to Piestar (msg # 100):

"Working? Where would we be working? The mine was overrun and all of our guards killed! the kobolds hold the mine now!"

"Kobolds? Show me Kobolds. We will get mine back for you."

"Ouch! the little bugger stung me ear! Why? The town is dead now, only a matter of time til they kill us! Get it back? There are only a few of you!"

"How many of them are there, to have cowed you all so?"

She was disappointed that he hadn't seen the humor of her return prank. She was also disappointed that there seemed to be no food or drink.

In reply to Piestar (msg # 104):

The Barmaid brings plenty to eat and drink!

"They killed the guards and run off poor Boddynock, we thought he was dead too, He's lucky! There were lots of them though, to kill all those good Gnomes!"

In reply to Nerull (msg # 105):

"A toast! Garl Glittergold! May his nose grow ever larger!"


A girl falls off the table, totally drunk, and cuts her head open, bleeding badly, but she's still awake, and takes another drink!
This message was last edited by the player at 17:13, Mon 13 Dec 2021.

"'ow many gnomes were there?"

Dain figures that's a better question than asking how many kobolds there were; it was more likely to be an answer that could be provided.

Ulle digs in. The idea of fighting Kobold's sharpened his appetite, and he wasn't really worried how many of them there were. He would kill as many as he could, and he had no doubt Dain and Kossoth would kill whatever was left over.

He couldn't imagine a number of Kobold's higher than that.

In reply to Dain Strongaxe (msg # 107):

"At least 8, they was all killed. Maybe more, So there were many dozens of Kobolds!"

"Xanag's sweet sachet!" uttered Astrid - human oath, she had picked up somewhere - as the gnome girl toppled from the table, and injured her head.   She got down from her chair, and made her way over to offer aid, and apply a poultice.

If she could get the drunkard to hold reasonably still...
This message was last edited by the player at 02:47, Tue 14 Dec 2021.

Kestrel is slightly taken aback at the answer. "Well, I suppose having a party is a good way to take away sadness!"

He sips the mug of beer as he follows the others into the Big Room. "Only gnomes would take the time to construct a permanent joke!" he laughs when he sees the over-sized furniture.

He climbs up into one of the chairs, taps mugs with a gnome and tries to listen to the many conversation taking place around him. ~If this is how they drink when they are sad, I can't imagine the ruckus when they are happy!~

By the time he has finished off a meat pasty and half his mug of beer, Kestrel has been able to piece together that the mine was overrun by kobolds, several gnomes were killed, and apparently the rest of the village were content to get drunk and wait until the kobolds came to kill them!

Kestrel gets down from his chair and moves to where most of his companions are gathered. "I don't understand why they are not looking to avenge their dead, but I am not a gnome.

I do know that kobolds dislike the daylight, if we go watch the mine entrance tonight, they may send out some foraging or hunting parties, perhaps we could whittle down their numbers."

Nodding at Dain's wide question, she did wonder at the ratio of Gnome to Kobold casualties should they meet. Kobold's, she had read, were not a serious threat, but then again she had read of no great Gnomish warriors or armies either.

At the tumbling of the young Gnome, Piestar considered offering aid, but the thought of climbing down from her high chair seemed daunting, and Astrid was already on the move, so she settled in and started nibbling on some food.

Ale was not her beverage of choice, preferring wine, but she would sip enough to wash down her food.

"A splendid plan Kestrel, we might not only trim their numbers, but capture a few for questioning, something at which Astrid excels."

Kestrell had not been there when they had done something similar with the Orcs, but the Good Sister was still a bit in awe at how well Astrid had pulled the needed information from their prisoners.

Grunting at Kestral's idea, Ulle thought it unnecessary, but he had no reason to debate against the idea. He would rather simply face them, fight them and kill them, but perhaps the Elf spoke wisdom, they might have had allies they did not yet know about.

He wondered at Caedfel, who he assumed was with them, but in the crowded room he could not be seen. He hoped the silent fellow was okay, and not the victim of some Gnomish prank.

Dain strokes his beard thoughtfully as he considers Kestral's proposal (since endorsed by Piestar) and adds his assent.

"Aye; I bet the kobolds thought the gnomes were easy pickings and that they could be overwhelmed by numbers.  I don't think they'll be as brave against fighting folks, and whatever magic our members can bring to bear."

The door opens and an elf walks into a bar.
It's this bar and it's a wild elf.

Which is not to say the elf is currently upset in any way. Rather it's the nomenclature other races use to describe his.

The fair-haired fellow looks round the bar, eyes settling on a concentration of elvenkin so he wanders across and says, [Language unknown: "Whfo ch Un ven allme?"]

***
If invited, he adds, "I'm Adan. pleased to meet you. I think I should offer you folks a round but I alas having not more than one gold coin to my name I may not. Thse with perceptive eyes may detect that I seek something. 'Tis true. But not for freebies. For a man. One named Danagh Morrid." Adan's deep blue eyes flick around those gathered, perhaps seeking a glimmer of recognition.
This message was last edited by the GM at 18:01, Tue 14 Dec 2021.

In reply to Adan Rae (msg # 115):

A thundering crash bursts through the Big Room, originating far above the gargantuan fireplace dominating one wall. The reason is quickly apparent, the mantel of the fireplace is actually a balcony, complete with railing, and the crash was from a door atop the balcony being flung open. Stepping forward to the rail is a rather stately looking gnome, wearing garish trousers with green diagonal stripes and a red doublet with large gold shoulder pads. The doublet remains open over a considerable paunch, thankfully still covered by a blue tunic. He grasps the rails with ring-encrusted hands, clear and grey stones twinkling with reflected hearth light. He sports a long white beard over deep, chocolate-brown skin and dark blue eyes, and is crowned with a forester's hat and a Peacock feather.

Behind him, towering over the gnome, a slim, pale-skinned, blond-haired human stands. His outfit consists of much duller browns and greys, the only notable marks about him a signet ring on a chain around his neck and a pair of Pince-nez at his nose. The human tries to stand at the back, letting the gnome dominate the scene.

The gnome looks around, as the party dies down momentarily to meet his gaze. The room holds it's breath, waiting expectantly for him to speak. The twinkle in his eye bursts forth like a flame as he bellows out . . .

"I've sold the mine, drinks are on me!"

The room instantly erupts once again in celebration, and yet another gallon is thrust upon you!

The gnome climbs down the steps, inquisitively looking at the party. The human stands in back on the balcony for now.
This message was last edited by the player at 19:42, Tue 14 Dec 2021.

Well that's interesting, the young priestess of love thought to herself, I wonder how our employer will feel about such nonsense? Clearly there is more going on here than meets the eye.

Convinced the real antagonist had just entered the room, Sister Piestar simply sits quietly, and waits to see what will develop.

Not being a speaker of Elven, Ulle has no clue what the newcomer had said, but he didn't appear to be a threat, so he waved the Elf into the Big Room.

"Plenty for all, sit. Sit!," he said to the newcomer.

When the doors above them also burst open, Ulle listened, and wondered what this sale might mean for them and their mission, and most importantly if they would still be allowed to kill some Kobolds.

"Not at all. Kestrel Duskwalker, pleased to meet you."

Kestrel's ears perk up at the name Danagh Morrid, recalling that Birahu had mentioned him. But he does not have a chance to ask the newcomer about this, as he is interrupted by the crash of the door above.

Hearing the gnome announce the sale of the mine, Kestrel looks to Astrid, "Your master said he owned 30% of the mine, I wonder if the Good Gnome Doonfitting relayed that information to the buyer?" he asks, pointing at the slim human still on the balcony. "I imagine that would be Danagh Morrid of the Gem Cutter's Guild. Birahu mentioned that he might be here looking to buy the mine."

Turning to Adan, Kestrel asks, "What's your interest in Danagh Morrid?"

Adan nods to Ulle, replying, "Thank you. I am Adan. I forget not all speak my native tongue."

The elf nods to Kestrel, thankful for the hint on language, "Adan Rae. Thank you for the welcome." He adds quietly and quickly,

Adan sits. The doors burst open above and he stands, sword half-drawn. With barely a pause he relaxes back into the seat.

At Kestrl's words Adan's eyes lock onto the human on the balcony. Refocusing on Kestrel, he replies, "I have a message for him from Guildmaster Mingo. And to check on his well-being." Adan looks back to the descending gnome. "Do you imagine there would be a problem if with me going up there to talk to Danagh?"

Cal is keenly interested in the announcement that the mine has been sold.  Interested, and suspicious.

He maneuvers his way closer to the balcony where the announcement was made, even going so far to reach it if he is able.  His thought is that those with details (and hence answers to his questions) are closer to the door from which the decked-out gnome emerged.

His question: "Who bought the mine?"

"Who might you all be, I'm Doonfitting, I used to own the mine, until 5 minutes ago. Get yourself a beer and some food, party like there is no tomorrow, I insist! The Gem-cutter's Guild bought the 70% that I owned. A great wizard owns the other 30%"
This message was last edited by the player at 14:18, Wed 15 Dec 2021.

Finally spotting Cal, Ulle chuckles as the man attempts to scale up the balcony, and drinks a swig of ale as he cheers the holy man on.

Adan heads up towards the Danagh, using the same stairs that Doomwitting used to descend. "Hello! You're Danagh?"

This message was deleted by the player at 15:42, Wed 15 Dec 2021.

"Pleased to make your acquaintance, Noonfitting.  I am Caedfel, humble follower of Pelor.  But please call me Cal.

I am curious about the Gemcutters' interest in the mine.  Had they been trying to buy you out for long?  And do you know how they intend to work it?"

Kossoth was a naturally wary fellow so a member of the gemcutters guild buying out the gnomes right after the mine fell to kobolds sounded beyond suspicious as it would have allowed them to pay coppers on the gold for such a deal.  Still outside a simple frown he listened since he didn't have anything to add to the festivities going on.

In reply to Caedfel (msg # 126):

"Pleased to meet you and your friends, join us, drink, party! Don't disrespect us! Yes, I sold my 70% of the mine to the Gem Cutter's Guild."

"So how long was this deal in the works?"

In reply to Adan Rae (msg # 124):

"Yes, I am Danagh Morrid, can I help you?"

In reply to Caedfel (msg # 129):

"Three days of negotiations!, Well, Two,"

In reply to Danagh Morrid (msg # 130):
"I'm Adan Rae. Syndic Mingo sent me. Are you expecting anything? Trouble peerhaps? Or anything else?" Adam answers.

In reply to Adan Rae (msg # 132):

"Not really expecting trouble, but I will need someone to clean out the Kobolds. You and your friends interested? I'll give you 75gp once it is accomplished!"

"So you weren't expecting anything from the Guildmaster?" Adan presses. "And no trouble? Fine, then." He readjusts and looks down to the others. "They are their own people, you understand, but give me four gold to clear my bill here and I'll ask them for you."

In reply to Adan Rae (msg # 134):

"What trouble would I get from the Guildmaster? I followed his instructions to the letter."

"To the letter? Are you absolutely sure?" Adan leans in and lowers his tone. "Recount for me, if you will, Master Morrid, that I may confirm. Or deny, with whatever reward, or otherwise, that entails."

The elf keeps a straight visage, enjoying overindulging in the verbal theatrics, a habit acquired from three seasons travelling with a bard.

In reply to Adan Rae (msg # 136):

"I bought the gnome's 70% share in the mine for less than the maximum price he was willing to pay, now I need to get rid of the kobold scourge and get the mine running again!"

The man probably hired the Kobold's in the first place, or so Sister Piestar suspects, but she keeps that thought to herself.

For now.

"And the kobold attack was . . . when?"

In reply to Caedfel (msg # 139):

"Five or six days ago. It was awful. Been negotiating since last night to sell, I got what it was worth when it was operating! They tried to cheat me!"

"Did they?"  blinked Astrid, with a feigned naive look and tone.

"That's so surprising!"  No -- not even a tad.  "How badly did they try to cheat you?  What did they offer?"

"Good," nods Adan. "So have you paid Master Doonfitting? It's illthought to tackle the kobolds until the deal is completed.  You know there are perhaps three dozen of the kobolds?"

Kestrel listens passively to the conversation with Doonfitting, trying to put all the facts together.

Leaning toward Kossoth, who is also remaining silent, he says quietly, "Kobolds raid the mine six days ago, the Guild representative shows up three days ago, and the deed to mine is sold. It all seems more than coincidence."

The ranger takes a sip from his mug, and continues to listen to Caedfel and Astrid questioning the gnome.

Kossoth simply nodded at his attestation.

He then spoke even more quietly, his lips barely moving at all, as he knew elvish ears were good , _{“He will want the mine cleared for business quickly to make profit.  Either he brought them in himself or took advantage of it but in either case he will want them all dead for equally good a reason.  So we offer to clear it for 5% stake in the mine.  To be split between the company of nigh ten strong folk and a comrade pool to handle incidentals that affect us all means each person is gaining a fraction of a percent ownership, but it also means the Guild has a minor partner of strong individuals who do not mind keeping the mine clear if it runs into trouble.”}

He shrugged before adding, _{”If he does not he has to leave to hire individuals and we clear it anyways since the Wizard wanted us to and we cost him time and money for being too stingy.  If he does then we have a slow trickle of gems or coin when sold to cover our needs.”}

In reply to Astrid Silverveil (msg # 141):

"He tried to buy it for 500gp! Like it hasn't produced 15 timed that in the last year!"

In reply to Adan Rae (msg # 142):

"Of course they're paid! Cash on the barrel head so to speak!"

"In that case, clearing the mine becomes your problem rather than the gnomes," states Adam, ears tuned into the words of those he'd just been sitting with. "You never know when kobolds or worse might incurse again. A force of perhaps ten able and willing warriors on call for such clearance would be something to be proud of. We would provide such a survive for a mere five percent share in the mine. Can we agree this deal?"
This message was last edited by the player at 18:31, Thu 16 Dec 2021.

"In perpetuity? That would be expensive for us! Not a lot up front mind you, but long term it would be a considerable sum! Sadly, you got me over a barrel, I need to clear the mine and get the miners back to work! Forget the 75gp then, just 5%! I'll agree to that!"

"You pay my bill here!" retorts Adam. "Then I'll take your offer and get buy in, yes?"
This message was last edited by the player at 18:31, Thu 16 Dec 2021.

In reply to Adan Rae (msg # 149):

"Done. You drive a hard bargain! Kill them kobolds!"

He takes the offer back to the others.

Startled, Piestar feels like this seems awfully up-and-up. It made her nervous.

"Curious, who will be working the mine, if we manage to clear it? With they hire the Gnomes, or will they have to move?" she asked of anyone who would listen.
This message was last edited by the player at 11:44, Fri 17 Dec 2021.

All of the math was beyond Ulle's poor excuse for an education. Kossoth spoke as one who had gotten much further along though, and Ulle trusted him to be working in their best interests.

More importantly, it sounded like they would still be able to kill Kobolds, so he was pretty happy with whatever was being agreed upon.

"He is a guild merchant.  He of course wants coin as fast as possible.  It makes no sense to do anything but hire the gnomes here after the mines are cleared." remarked Kossoth.

Looking over to Ulle he summed it up, "We kill the kobolds, the mines start up again and part of that gold they make from it is paid to us...forever.  You can make sure your portion is sent to your clan for them to buy what they need regardless of how successful you are or even if you fall in battle to a worthy foe."

Ulle grunts, that made some sense, though he was unsure how Kossoth knew he was confused. Did the barbarian have some mind-reading magic in him? Hmmm....

"So that's a 'yes', then?"
This message was last edited by the player at 18:32, Thu 16 Dec 2021.

Kossoth made his first small chuckle since he knew that his own face was as obvious when he didn't understand what was going on.  Something he did a lot in this strange land and part of the reason he spent much time apart from these people...no need to share his ignorance of the world they lived in.  But money and bartering?  The clan back home lived on trade with people that wanted trinkets from the sand so he knew the language of pay easily.

He then nodded his agreement to the terms.  Just as they would help Ulle's clan they would help his own.
This message was last edited by the player at 21:02, Thu 16 Dec 2021.

Kestrel leans back for a moment, looking at the tall man in surprise.

"You are an astute man, Kossoth! That is an excellent idea!" he exclaims, with no concern of others hearing him.

The ranger sips from his mug again, and wonders, ~Kossoth's people trade, and he has obviously learned the ways of merchants...but how does a Grugach learn of such things? They rarely speak to others, let alone trade with them!~

"For ill or good we have come into the sphere of an Archmage and they never let things that they find useful go.  We may as well do what we can to secure our own interests should be find the opportunity to escape their influence." remarked Kossoth ruefully.

Astrid was likewise impressed with Kossoth's business sense and clear thinking. And how similar thoughts on the nature of Grugach;  this newcomer had their look in his face, but his coloring, stature, demeanor and manner spoke of another people entirely.

And, if the rest had overlooked Pie's both incisive and insightful question, she had not.    She made her way over to Danagh Morrid, and addressed him, with the feigned naive look again:

"Our good priestess is ever thinking of others; she is so very thoughtful, that way. Always worrying about the welfare of the common folk. Surely, it is your plan to re-employ the gnomes, as workers within the mine? At the same wage they were making?  Only a chilly soul would cut their wages, or worse, compel them to move somewhere else. And you seem to me such a fair man."

In reply to Astrid Silverveil (msg # 160):

He got a hurt look on his face. "Of course they get the same wage, already figured into our accounting, we will raise our end cost a bit to increase profit though."

Straight after getting group approval Adan returns to Danagh and says, "Done and approved and you're settling my bill here as agreed."

He then returns to the group and says, "Yep, we have the job at 5%. But first, waht's everybody drinking? And eating?" He takes orders, getting someone to write it down if need be, and then takes the order for food and drinks (and a decent room) to the bar and gets those underway. Adan turns and points to Danagh, "He's paying. Feel free to confirm firm. Can can I see my room, please?
This message was last edited by the player at 17:42, Fri 17 Dec 2021.

Do they even have rooms for biggun's, Sister Piestar wonders? She had expected to lay her bedroll in here, and would count herself lucky not to be under the stars.

"I would like some wine, if you have some, and to eat, I crave some potatoes, maybe some ham? Would you have a hot bath a slightly larger than gnome sized person might fit in? I could use a hot soak."

She glances over to Astrid, wondering if she would want one too, if they are available.

Simply wanting a full belly, Ulle will order meat, and bread. Butter would be nice, but not necessary. A luxury he had come to enjoy.

In reply to Adan Rae (msg # 162):

He looks around the room and returns to the others after using 'the facilities', whether en suite, shared or in the basement..

In reply to Adan Rae (msg # 166):
This message was last edited by the GM at 18:14, Fri 17 Dec 2021.

OOC Can you let us know what happened there? Confused. Did Adan get taken out of the room? Also, did no one answer my question?

In reply to Piestar (msg # 168):

He rented a room for the night, inspected it, went to the bathroom, then rejoined the others at the party.

The girl brings you some wine and tells you there is an oversized tub. She places your order for ham and spuds and delivers it 5 minutes later.

In reply to Ulle (msg # 164):

Ham and black bread are delivered to Ulle

For everyone
Meal 3sp
Beer free
Wine 3sp
Bath 4sp
bigan Room 1gp

OOC: Yep, that's right. And food/drink to go on Adan's room bill.
This message was last edited by the player at 18:24, Fri 17 Dec 2021.

Kossoth asks simply for a meal...he was planning on taking up sleeping somewhere just outside town.  A good spot that he had spotted on their way in to town that would suit his needs.

In reply to Adan Rae (msg # 172):

Okay Got you, you keep it.

Chilling the wine with her vile and wicked sorcery, Sister Piestar will take a sip.

She nods and says it is good, as long as it is anything short of a vinegar flavored prank, and orders a hot bath for when she is done with her food, which she eats in a slow and dainty fashion.

She says she will also be taking a Biggun room for the night, and asks Astrid if she wants to share.

"There's room in mine if someone wants it," affers Adan.
This message was last edited by the player at 18:51, Fri 17 Dec 2021.

While the elf hadn't directed his comment directly to her, he hadn't not either, and the thought of sharing a room with a man caused Sister Piestar to blush, which she poorly hid behind another sip of wine.
This message was last edited by the player at 20:28, Fri 17 Dec 2021.

Adan expands, "It's a good bed, sister, for people that like that sort of thing. If you want it, it's yours. I don't snore and i sleep on the floor."

"I will rent my own room, thank you. The offer was a kind one." She was clearly flustered.

Adan nods and lapses into comfortable silence.

"A kind one, indeed!" chimed in Astrid, joining Piestar. "And wholly to be expected; Grugach are renown far and wide for their accommodation and love of city dwellers!  It has nothing whatever to do with your charming demeanor - nor your splendid derrière! Don't let anyone tell you otherwise. Come -- let's get settled for the evening, if you are ready." 

If her meal was finished, Sister Piestar would head to her room, though Astrid's word were still spinning thru her head. The wine had left her a little bit fuzzy, but she thought that Astrid had complimented her backside!

She would ask if the hot bath could be brought to their room, if not, she would be curious where she could go to soak.

Assuming Ulle received his order as well, he would eat heartily, then go outside to wash his face in the horse trough.

He would take the funny Elves offer up for a bed to sleep in, if the offer was open to him as well.

Kestrel partakes in a simple meal, just some grilled meat. He sticks to finishing off his second mug of beer before taking his leave.

The elf leaves the tavern, and walks about the town, letting the cool night air, wash away the cacophony of the party and the smell of spilled beer.

~Once the kobolds are dealt with, a long soak in hot water will be in order.~

Kestrel will return to the Inn and will head straight to his room where he will spend some time sharpening his sword, checking his arrows and armour, and removing extraneous items from his pack to prepare for the assault on the mine.

Eventually he will spend time in reverie to rest his mind and body.

In reply to Astrid Silverveil (msg # 181):

Minnie will lead you to the baths, she is a young halfling girl and reminds you greatly of another Minnie!

Changing into a robe, and grabbing her soaps, lotions and three towels, Piestar follows Minnie to the bathes.

"I really hope the the water is nice and hot," she says to the youngster.

OOC: Minnie is a Halfling or a Gnome? I thought this was a Gnome enclave.

In reply to Piestar (msg # 186):

It is a gnome enclave, but she is a halfling.

Stepping slowly in to the hot bath, Sister Piestar moans gratefully as she enters the warm soak.

"Minnie, could you be a dear and fetch me another glass of wine?"

Rubbing her feet, she calls the blessing of Myhriss on the house, while casting simple healing spells on her feet to reduce the swelling and ease the callus that had developed on her left heel.


If/when Minnie returns, Piestar will tip her a Hawk, and chat with her.

"Seems odd to see a Halfling living here, must be rather lonely for you no? I hope it is your decision to live here."

In reply to Piestar (msg # 188):

Minnie giggles, "They're very fun people, so sad what the kobolds did, don't know where I'll go. The gnomes plan to die fighting the kobolds.."

"I think we'll step in before the Gnomes fight any Kobolds, though given they sold the mine they might just move along, should we fail."

She chats with the young Halfling, inquiring about her prospects for a boyfriend, and asking if she has any hopes for love, and family in the future, and where her family is. Obviously her goddess comes up in the conversation.

Having washed off, and enjoyed the stars and the cool night air for a few minutes, Ulle heads to the room of Adan and bangs on his door.

"Bed free?" he asks, if the elf answers the door.

A voice comes through the door, "Do you snore?"

"No complaints yet. We find out maybe." Ulle chuckles at the question.
This message was last edited by the player at 15:49, Sat 18 Dec 2021.

"It's open," comes the reply.

Entering the room, Ulle looks around, checking for any other exits and such.

He places his satchel and weapons alongside the bed, then sits on the mattress. He hasn't slept in many modern beds, and the mattress felt quite luxurious to him. He actually bounced up and down once or twice, and grunted agreeably.

Peeling off his chain mail, he sits for awhile, and oils it, as the blacksmith has instructed him.

"Me Ulle, of the Wolf People. Who your people? Why you here?"

"Learning the ways of men," answers Adan, sitting cross legged on the floor just to one side of the window, hands reversed on his thighs, inches from blade and bow.

Grunting, Ulle chuckles. "Ways of men? Good luck." He works the oil into the shoulders and neck guard of the chain mail. "TWays of men, mostly greed, hatred, lust. Civilization they call it, but civilized, they are not."

"Understanding the terrain eases the path through it," comments Adam. "If you snore, the commode may get emptied." He shuts his eyes and sits motionless, now only talking subvocally.
This message was last edited by the player at 18:00, Sat 18 Dec 2021.

Laughing at the though, Ulle finished tending to his weapons and armor, and turned in.

In reply to Ulle (msg # 199):

There are 50 to a 100 gnomes in the Inn partying down, including many miners as well as the Master Miner himself if you have questions. Many already retired it looks like.
This message was last edited by the GM at 18:30, Sun 19 Dec 2021.

In reply to Nerull (msg # 200):

In the morning, the sun rose and the party did too!

The party is beginning to pick back up. the miners are gathering for food and drink.

Ulle rises and washes in the horse trough again, this time getting his chest and pits, before heading to his room and donning his armor and equipment. He is really hoping they run into Kobold's today.

Refreshed from her hot bath, and good night sleep between clean sheets, Sister Piestar hopes for a nice hot breakfast to start her day. If she can get boiling water, she has her own tea leaves, though if the gnomes have some honey she would appreciate it.

In reply to Piestar (msg # 203):

"Of course we have honey! I'll get you some from the sideboard. Besides hot water, what do you want to order?" Minnie asks Piestar.
This message was last edited by the player at 18:57, Mon 20 Dec 2021.

"Three eyes, sunny side up, some toast, and some slices of cooked ham please! Extra jam!"

In reply to Piestar (msg # 205):

"2 silver, coming right up!"

Slipping three silver out of her purse, Sister Piestar pays for meal, while looking about the Big Room wondering if anyone else was up yet!"

"Uhhh. Morning Sister. Sleep good?"

The Flan warrior sets his weapons up against the wall, and clambers up into a chair. When he gets a chance, he orders scrambled eggs, with bacon, and some fruit. He pays two silver, unless a different price is set.

Minnie delivers Piestars breakfast and the Ulle's when he places his order, only take a few minutes so you know they are good at their jobs! 2 sp it is.

Washed, dressed and looking sharp Adan joins in and orders the same, trying to blend in and not quite making it. He adds two silver to the pile.
He catches Piestar's eye and then says conversationally to Ulle, "The commode didn't have to empty."
This message was last edited by the player at 19:25, Mon 20 Dec 2021.

Smiling nervously at the Elf, the good sister dips a piece of buttered toast into and egg yolk, and nibbles on. She didn't quite understand the joke, aside from the fact that was toilet humor. Taking a sip of her tea, she glanced about for Astrid, or someone else she recognized, still uncertain about this newcomer.

Kestrel enters the Big Room, unarmed and unarmoured, and waves to his comrades already there.

He finds Fatty Bolger and hands him a gold lion, "For my room for another night. I will be leaving some belongings there while we investigate the mine, be sure they are safe, will you?"

The elf sits with Sister Piestar, "Good morning, did you sleep well?"

When the opportunity presents, he will order bacon, toast, and a mug of tea. He will also ask the serving girl, "Is Doonfitting about, or perhaps a miner?"

He explains to those at his table, "We would be best served to speak to Doonfitting or one of the miners, if they are capable, to learn what we can of the layout of the mine before we venture in."

Astrid joined them at that point.   Her silver-white locks done in a side swept ponytail, bound with an azure colored hair-tie.

About her neck dangled a particular charm;  a holy sigil, in truth:  the dual eight sided dice of the Suel deity, Norebo.   Anyone who companied with her long enough, would begin to see she possessed a small collection of such sigils. Each of a different god, and most of them human deities.

"Good morn, dear comrades.  Getting a layout of the mine is well advised," she nodded.

"Have I mentioned that I hate mines?  Even considering I've never gone into one?"

In reply to Astrid Silverveil (msg # 213):

"I'm here, the party picks up at 8am! Got to go out in style! What can I do for ye?"

Making his way back into town after readying himself for the mines Kossoth made his way back to the biggun room of the Rabbit Hole Inn to find his comrades.  His eyes narrowed when he spotted the holy symbol of Norebo but he said nothing.  Asking for a light breakfast he waited for it and listened to the conversations going on to get an idea of where they were going next and how to address the mine issue for their payout.

Smiling as each adventurer entered the room, Sister Pisetar enjoyed her breakfast, but was ready to get the day started.

"Yes, thank you," she said to Kestrel when he asked about her nights sleep. She was too nervous to ask about his evening, as she was pretty certain Elves didn't sleep, and was uncertain if it would be considered rude.

She gave Astrid a particularly bright smile, though they had shared a room together, she was still more happy when the Grey Elf was about.

"Can you give us an idea of the layout of the mine? If there's a back door that would be good to know!

Anything you can tell us about the kobolds would also help. How were they armed? Did they have a spellcaster with them?

Anything that help us prepare would be most appreciated."

In reply to Kestrel Duskwalker (msg # 217):

"Oh, you need to talk to the Old Badger, he was in charge of the mine, he might be more informative than I. They were armed with short swords and spears. In the last few days they have been building and setting traps everywhere! We lost a few to the traps scouting! They have a wizardly type I think!"
This message was last edited by the player at 13:51, Wed 22 Dec 2021.

Adan remains quietly in the background but taking it all in nonetheless.

In reply to Adan Rae (msg # 219):

"You all seem to be good sorts and done your best to help us so I may as well admit it. This is a wake. Not for any one person, but for the whole village. We're getting it done now as there won't be anyone left to do it when it is finished. A week ago a band of those miserable Celbit showed up and took the mine. Those guards that they didn't kill in taking it, died when they attacked the mine to take it back. It seems those stinking beasts set up traps all through the mine and it just wore our boys out when they went in. Now it's just a matter of time before they finish us all off."

So have a drink on poor old Pindangoogly on Doonfitting the Master Miner and remember us for Garl, Ulaa, and Bleredd,"

Kossoth spoke up for the first time regarding anything important, "You have not seen our best yet Doonfitting.  I will not say to stop your wake but you may find it to be premature to say it is for the whole village."

"Is he about? Can you have him come and meet with us right away? Knowing the layout will help us immensely."

Kestrel shakes his head, "I can't believe the entire village will just walk away without a fight!

We are willing to fight to earn some coin from Birahu. For all of you this is your livelihood and your home!

But it is not for me to judge...if you can find Badger perhaps we will be able to come up with a sound plan."

In reply to Kestrel Duskwalker (msg # 222):

"The Celbit 'bout got the Old Badger, he's laid up in his bed, wounds healing, I can take you to meet him."

Doonfitting leads the way to a little cottage near the Inn where the Old Badger stays, you find him in bed wrapped in bandages from cuts and a spear piercing his side! Another wrapped arond his head and his leg appears to have been half chewed off. It is a miracle that he lived at all. A very tuff Gnome indeed, earning his name of 'Badger'.
This message was last edited by the GM at 14:34, Thu 23 Dec 2021.

Startled at the sight, Sister Piestar goes down on her knees at the side of his bed, and calls upon the blessings of her diety on his battered form.It isn't much, but she hopes it helps ease his pain to some degree.

As the others trod inside, Ulle stands guard outside. He never much liked crowds, and there are a lot of them. He keeps his eyes peeled, looking for any sign of danger or malicious mischief.

In reply to Piestar (msg # 225):

Bandage wrapped around his head! silly cleric! He feels a lot better, ready to take on the Celbit again!

In reply to Nerull (msg # 227):

"Thank ye fer the healin' missy. How may I help ye. Ask yer questions!"

Smiling at the injured man, Sister Piestar gently takes his hand and asks the question that Kestral had brought to the fore.

"Me and my band of comrades intend to attempt to cleanse your mine of vile and monstrous infestation. What can you tell us about the layout, and the assorted ways in and out? Might you have an actual map perhaps?"

"Of course I 'ave a map! What ye take me fer? A young welp? It 'as everyting including the traps WE set. Mind ye the Celbit traps aren't on it! Ye has ta promise ta show no one and give it back to only me!"

"I think that is a promise we can keep Sir."

"Here." he says pulling out a map. It indicates the tunnel, a portcullis and a side cavern where Boddynock stayed. He points out various traps and pits and a ledge from which they made sure the workers kept at it. It could be used to fire down on individuals below.

It showed the main mine was a large round chamber with a crystal column in the middle.

Adan asks quietly, "Would you folks have some poles we may have? Say, about ten foor long?"

Kestrel nods in appreciation toward Sister Piestar, grateful that she started the conversation with the heavily-injured gnome.

"Badger, we were told that there was a spellcaster with the kobolds, is there anything else about them that stood out to you?

We will do our best to clear the mine and avenge your kin that died."

In reply to Kestrel Duskwalker (msg # 234):

"I heard a weasel! Be careful, they be mean! Send in yer spies too, da rabbits is good!"
This message was last edited by the player at 14:16, Sat 25 Dec 2021.

Shaking her head in confusion, Sister Piestar looked to the others for clarification.

"Weasels? Rabbits? Is that some sort of miner-ese? Or does he really mean animals?"

In reply to Piestar (msg # 236):

"O' course I means de animals silly elf! They have at least one weasel, I heard him squalor! Getcha a few rabbits to check it out fer ya, dey be inconspicuous, dey work cheap too! A carrot an dey be 'appy!"

Astrid too was pleased with Pie's healing and subsequent conversation with the spunky, eccentric gnome.

On the subject of rabbits, she did her best to recollect if she'd seen any signs of their burrows along the way.  But, alas, she'd not been paying quite enough attention...

Astrid Silverveil rolled 17 using 1d20.  Animal lore @16.

In reply to Astrid Silverveil (msg # 238):
This message was last edited by the GM at 14:21, Tue 28 Dec 2021.

While the others asked questions Kossoth was studying the map that had been brought out.  He was familiar with traps and snares from needing to use back home.  Less to capture and kill than slow them down so that they could be warned of their presence to ready themselves or flee...his home was very deadly and these soft easterners wouldn't last long there in their current form.  He banished those thoughts as he focused on the task at hand...

As long as she is there, Piestar replaces 'Old Badgers' bandages, smiling at the thought that only animals would be called things like rabbits, or weasels... or badgers. She will also see if it is safe to remove the spear from his side, as she has one healing spell left for the day.

Removing the old bandages, she will clean the wounds and check for signs of infection, before making sure they are clean and dry before putting fresh ones on them.

She will then brew him some tea, and head to the tavern to purchase a bowl of soup, with crackers, which she will take back to his house, and spoon feed him if he will allow it.

Adan sits back and observes.

In reply to Piestar (msg # 241):

The spear is removed already, it is a bandaged wound, sorry if I was unclear!.

"I've not used rabbits as scouts! I expect the weasels might make lunch of them before they could report back."

The words seem to trigger a thought, "But...what if we could coat rabbits or even chickens with some sort of poison...that might deal with the weasels quick enough?"

Kestrel looks over the map with Kossoth.

"So, no hidden entrances or back doors, Badger?" he asks. "Even ones not marked on the map?

A straight-ahead assault on the front entrance will be the most dangerous."

In reply to Kestrel Duskwalker (msg # 244):

There is an entrance tunnel into the mine, about 100', 50' in is a side cave where Boddynock lived, then another 20' there is a portcullis across the tunnel. At the end of the tunnel is the mine, a large round room with a pillar of crystal in the middle. There is a down slope into this chamber with a side ledge around half of the room about 10' to 15' up above the floor of the mine.

Once finished with cleaning the mans wounds, and making sure he is conformable, Piestar will offer a thought of her own.

"Your kind can speak with rabbits and other burrowing sorts, we cannot. Is there a Gnome would might aid is in this? Not to enter combat I hope, but at least act as a translator?"

"Not sure if you'd find anyone or not, ye can ask about. I would, but I'm kinda indisposed."

"That crystal pillar," inquired Astrid, looking at the map, "Is it for aesthetics, or symbolic in some way?  Or does it have some other significance?  Aside from being a physical support, I mean."   

Once that question was answered, she was all for seeking a prospective translator.
This message was last edited by the player at 17:46, Thu 30 Dec 2021.

In reply to Astrid Silverveil (msg # 248):

"The pillar is crystal, they be mining from it. It helps support it, I guess. It isn't necessary though."

"Oh." She shrugged.  "Well, shows you how much I know about mines!"

"Does anyone have any other questions?  Or shall we go attempt to hire a translator?"

In reply to Astrid Silverveil (msg # 250):

"I'm not an engineer mind you, just me guess cause we takes crystal from it."

This is all new to Adan. He listens intently but has little add.

"I have no more questions at the moment, but I will return to the Inn and arm and armour myself.

Though I still prefer the poison chickens!

Thank you for your help, Badger."

Kestrel then heads back to his room at the inn.

In reply to Kestrel Duskwalker (msg # 253):

An hour later everyone is gathered in the Big Room ready to adventure forth!

Sitting in the corner, Ulle is checking his weapons, eager to get started.

Having spent some of her spells, Piestar sits nervously sipping tea, and hoping those heals already cast don't cost her and her party dearly.

Except Astrid --  Astrid wasn't there.

Having thought Piestar's idea about the translator a good one, she was out & about, seeing if she could find such a person.  Er, gnome.   Er, gnomish person.  Yes...gnomes are people, too...

Any luck? She will make it a point of telling the prospect the party doesn't expect them to fight.  Though, if I find someone who also swings a short sword, shoots a sling, or even better, casts illusions, that'd be rather wonderful.  If we can afford their ticket...

Adan's ready to depart whenever other folks are.

======
OOC: Were a pair of 10' poles available?

In reply to Adan Rae (msg # 258):

In reply to Astrid Silverveil (msg # 257):

"I be interested in yer proposal, been fighting the local kobolds for night on 25 years in one way or te other. Can tell you all about them! My yer a pretty one!" he says to Astrid with a wink.
This message was last edited by the player at 15:29, Mon 03 Jan 2022.

"Oh, you're too kind, sir!  Hearty Barty, is it?  A name that implies an intrepid, stout-hearted man of the world! The gnome world, I mean.   Exactly what we are in need of.  You can converse with the critters, can't you?   Rap with the rabbits, swap words with weasels, and all that?  We're a diplomatic bunch, you see, and wish to avoid cross-species complications.  If you can help us do that, we shall make it worth your while."   

In reply to Astrid Silverveil (msg # 261):

"That's me, brave and intrepid. I got information too if you want it. Not sure if you're interested in it though." he stands up and puffs out his chest.
This message was last edited by the player at 19:37, Mon 03 Jan 2022.

She looked on the little fellow with admiration.

"An information broker, as well?  My hero!  And, Curiosity is my middle name.  Certainly, I am interested.   What sort of information is it?"   

In reply to Astrid Silverveil (msg # 263):

"Number one, when the Celbit take over a mine entrance, burrow, or other hole in the ground, they love to dig a large pit outside the hole and place a few guards there to attack someone unlucky enough to fall in the pit."

"Number 2, Celbit are usually led by Dragon-children, or sorcerers. However the more common celbt sorcerers aren't all that flashy. They develop spells that confuse, distract, and trigger larger traps they have set up. They try never to be the center of attention."

"Number 3, celbit are lazy. They will build as little as possible when designing traps. They prefer to take existing natural or man-made features and modify them to be deadly!"

"Watch out for the dire weasels, they're nasty and ferocious and in order to train them to their will, they have a wrangler, kill the wrangler and they got no direction. They'll still attack and try to kill you, but the Celbit won't be safe either."

"I tried being celbit, once," remarked Astrid, philosophically, "but it wasn't for me." she gave a short laugh at her own jest.

"Oh, sorry.  Well, sir, you've provided us something worthwhile, already.  For which you have my appreciation.   If you are going to come with us, can you gather your things, and then meet us over in the Big Room, when you're ready?"   

Astrid was intrigued by these so-called Dragon Children, the kobolds' sorcerers.  Spells that confused, distracted, and triggered were of definite professional interest. She wondered how much master Birahu knew about these casters.

Perhaps, she would learn some sort of interesting knowledge to bring back to him.
This message was last edited by the player at 16:28, Tue 04 Jan 2022.

In reply to Astrid Silverveil (msg # 265):

"Aye, I'll be there in five minutes!"

"Fantastic!  See you there!" 

On her return to the Big Room, she let the others know:

"Comrades, I've procured us some help.   A strapping, knowledgeable gnome by name of 'Hearty Barty.'  He can perform translation for us, and also supplied some information that you need to hear." 

Astrid will reiterate everything that was told to her in post #264, so the party knows.

Including explaining to anyone who doesn't know that 'Celbit' is the Flan term for 'kobold.' 

"Hmmm," muses Adan, interested to learn the new word.

Kestrel returns to the Big Room, wearing his chain mail, and armed with sword and bow.

"I don't expect this to be a long sortie," he says, "I've left my pack and gear in my room, less to worry about in a fight."

---

3 poultices in a pouch, and a waterskin are the only extra gear carried.

Finding a quiet corner, Piestar prays to her goddess for a successful foray into the mines.

Quiet as he was Kossoth watched the myriad plans and preparations that were being done.  He simply waited for them to head out, his eyes watching and his ears listening for there was blood to be drawn and with any small amount of skill and luck it would be theirs and not his.

In reply to Kossoth Zan (msg # 271):

"Hearty" Barty walks into the Big room wearing his armor, carrying a short sword and a dagger and a sling! Ready to go after the Celbit and drive them from their mines!

"Well met, Hearty One, lead us forth, I for one an ready to draw Celbit blood." Armed and armored, Ulle was indeed eager to begin.

Less eager than the others, Sister Piestar none the less was ready to move.

Dain pats the hand axes affixed to his belt, more to reassure him that they're there than out of love.

Which is not to say there isn't any love there . . . . He's just running a final check to make sure he's ready.

Cal stretches his legs and wills his tall frame to rise from his chair.

"I'm ready," he announces.

After introducing Hearty, Astrid had been a little preoccupied;  having tugged off a glove, to work on a recalcitrant nail with a file.   She glanced up.  Put the file away, slipped the glove back on.

"Aye. Indeed. All ready.  Let's have at it, and so forth."

In reply to Astrid Silverveil (msg # 277):

'Hearty' leads the way to the mine, you notice he is a little unsteady, perhaps drunk yet!

In reply to Hearty Barty (msg # 278):

When you arrive in the vicinity of the mine Hearty starts looking for his furry friends. Since they ARE just rabbits and aren't the brightest creatures, he doesn't seem to expect much.

Adan follows on, watching at the rear of the party.

Hearty gets on his knees and has you all stand back so as not to scare them. They are very timid creatures. Hearty wiggles his nose and eecks and squeaks and holds out a carrot.

The rabbit seems to answer him and turn to 3 other rabbits and they run toward the mine in a slow run.

Delighted at the sight of the small furry critters, Sister Piestar hoped they would remain safe in the difficulties ahead.

"Don't worry," said Astrid sagely, and softly, watching them go, "Be hoppy."

Kestrel watches the rabbits hop away, then turns to Barty, "Wouldn't we have been better off to send rats or weasels or badgers? Something that might look natural walking into a mine?

I'm guessing we just sent the kobolds dinner!"

In reply to Kestrel Duskwalker (msg # 284):

"Celbit won't catch the bunnies, but they do eat them. They'll be back in ten minutes or so."
This message was last edited by the player at 13:16, Mon 10 Jan 2022.

Nervous and concerned for the welfare of the bunnies, Sister Piestar watches on.

In reply to Piestar (msg # 286):

The first bunny comes back and reports to 'Hearty'

"The Celbit have placed a large number of sticks at the bottom of the slope. They're all pointy and directed up the slope. The others will be back soon. Got's to remember, dese is words of rabbits, what dey see and what you be seein' ain't going ta be the same."

Another few bunnies comes back and report!

"They ain't too sure where the entrance to the mineshaft is! Sometimes it looks closer, other times it looks further away! One rabbit fell into the mine before it reached it!"

"Hmm . . . could be spears or somethin' set to receive a charge?"

"Think rabbit perspective, my friend.  It could be a gate or wall too."

"I will circle from the left.  From what has been said about these traps they will not be hard for me to spot.  I will look for a good vantage point to look on the mine from an unexpected angle." remarked Kossoth plainly.  While it was obvious he wasn't gainsaying the usefulness of the rabbits it was just as clear that he meant he needed his own two eyes to see and ears to hear...that and he might be itching to put some distance between himself and the magic users.  For his size the big man was surprisingly quiet to a degree that seemed to almost rival any elf or ranger in their element, "If I spot a good place to setup I will with the bow to support your eventual advance."

"Kossoth, it would be best to wait before approaching the entrance.

I don't doubt your stealth, but we are best to move as a unit, not as individuals.

If the rabbits can provide any useful information, it is better to have it than not."

The elf looks a bit dubious about the rabbits when he mentions them.

If Kossoth decides to leave anyway, Kestrel's eye brow will raise momentarily but he will say nothing further as he waits for the rabbits to report in.

"I am not looking for the entrance Kestrel.  The kobolds came to the place but didn't walk the main path in else more would have noticed them coming.  I want to find the route they took to get there to see what it tells me..." he paused before adding, "...or find out if elsewhere nearby there is a second tunnel the village did not know about."

He pointed down towards where the rabbits had gone, "I have not met a brave kobold...ever.  Attacking, even with surprise head on is stupid...but also brave.  It feels like they made another entrance, or the magic user," he spit on the ground, "did.  I want to prove my distaste wrong and not find another entrance so this can be as simple as it seems."

Adan likes the rabbits and intends to fuss with one when they return.

In reply to Adan Rae (msg # 294):

In reply to Nerull (msg # 295):

The last of the rabbits comes,

"The kobolds put a huge scary pair of jaws in Boddynock's lair. They were covered by leaves and sticks and one of the rabbits the celbit caught was killed and placed in the jaws! Rabbits are smart enough to stay away without the warning."

"The gnomes had a big gate that came down in the mine. The Celbit have out a bunch of sticks on it so it is really pointy now."

"There's a really big dragon down there, watch out for the dragon, If you see it though, it is easy to get away, just turn around and run, and it ain't there no more. One of the rabbits says it was looking at the dragon, then it was gone, maybe it is only sometimes there."

In reply to Hearty Barty (msg # 296):

"I wonder what the bunnies mean by 'dragon'? Hmmph. What ya think. Ready to try it out?"

"I would guess the jaws are the dire weasels that Badger mentioned.

The gate is the portcullis and perhaps the kobolds have added sharpened stakes to it?"

"That is beyond even a guess from me, Barty. Something that is smokey or fiery but disappears?

I suggest we check to see if Kossoth has found another entrance, and if not, we then go knock on the front door!"

"Curious -- is the dragon possibly an illusion, conjured by one of their casters?  That might explain why it ceases to bother anyone, as soon as eyes are averted."   

"Anyway, agreed as to the plan, Kestrel.  Hey - ever notice how Kossoth spits, every time he says 'magic user' or the like?   I'm thinking about designating my own spit word.  Anyone have any clever suggestions?"   

"From what I have been taught, even suspecting something is an illusion can aid in disbelieving one." Piestar offered.

"That is true," acknowledged Astrid.

"And a pity sometimes that reality doesn't work the same, hey?"

The comment seemed to carry a lot of subtext, and a touch of melancholy, but now was not the time to ponder what the Elf had meant.

Sister Piestar clutched her flail, and shifted from one foot to the other, eager for that which she dreaded so to finally commence.

With the patience granted to the long-lived Adan takes it all in and waits for those more familiar to make up their minds.

Kossoth moved a branch out of the way and he returned as quietly as he had left.  With a shake of his head his voice rumbled with a frown, "No other way in and they concealed any tracks of their approach.  They are either skilled at least in that or they have detestable assistance..."

"Entirely possible," nodded Astrid.

She was sorely tempted to spit, but suspected a sense of humor was not among this tall, grim survivor's virtues.

"We were warned about them, and their subtle spells.  Well. Shall we be underway, here?"

With a grunt, Ulle shows his agreement, nay his eagerness to begin the assault.

In reply to Ulle (msg # 306):

As you approach the hill where the mine is, you see what the sticks are. Planted at the bottom of the hill a veritable forest of trees have been planted, all leaning up the hill. The poorest job you've ever seen. Do you climb the hill and approach the wrath of the killer kobolds?

"What could the point of that be? Seems like long term planning of some sort."

Are they large trees planted, or saplings? A bit confused.
This message was last edited by the player at 18:34, Sat 15 Jan 2022.

In reply to Piestar (msg # 308):

Saplings, little more than sticks in the ground.

"My guess would be cover for ambushers, or perhaps trying to hide a pit trap or something like that."

The ranger crouches in front of Boddynock and makes some grunting and growling noises, [Woodland Mammal: Boddynock, can you smell any of the beasts that attacked your friends?]

If there appears to be room to circle around the trees:
"Ulle, Kossoth, let's circle around on one side and see what's behind."

If there is no way to circle around the trees:
"Ulle, Kossoth, let's move closer and see what is waiting."

---

Did Boddynock the Bear join us or not?
[Edited to speak to the bear.]
This message was last edited by the player at 20:09, Sat 15 Jan 2022.

In reply to Kestrel Duskwalker (msg # 310):

Yes, Boddynock is there.

With a nod, Ulle follows Kestral on their scouting mission.

In reply to Ulle (msg # 312):

You find nothing here, . . yet.

Using hand gestures, Ulle quietly attempts to point out the pit and the archers that he has spotted to Kestral.

Kestrel gives a slight nod to Ulle, just enough to indicate that he sees the kobold archers.

"Charge in...or go back and let the others know?" The slight smile on his face as gently draws his sword from its scabbard, indicates his preference.

Craning his neck, Ulle tries to get a count on the archers. Despite his inclination though, he gestures that they should go back. Not fair to commit everyone to this without letting them know.

Bow readied Adan rests, motionless but aware, for the scouts to return.

Returning, Ulle informs the others that there are three archers outside of the cave, no clue if any are inside.

"I see no more. They are spread out. Much so. Hard to take in one."

Adan looks up to assess how long until nightfall.

In reply to Adan Rae (msg # 319):

"How spread out, Ulle?" queried Astrid.

"If they are all within 30 yards of one another, I could take all three with a spell of sleep.   And, if we keep one alive...I can charm and question him, in the same manner I did our orc friend. Assuming they speak Gnomish or common; I'd need a translator for their tongue."   

She added. "I'd need to get within about 40 yards range to do the first one, though."
This message was last edited by the player at 23:52, Mon 17 Jan 2022.

"Twenty, maybe thirty feet apart."

"Well, then.  Unless anyone's got any contrary ideas, my task is cut out for me."

If no reason not, Astrid will set about trying to sleep these three.

If need be, if it helps for stealth (elf in non metal armor), I'll remove my mail & shield, and go just in the gambeson beneath.

And attempt to get near enough to successfully sleep all three. 

Adam is happy to ge elf stealthing.

Come right along, then!

Kestrel points to Ulle, and then makes the fingers-walking gesture and points to where the party is waiting. He then points to himself, and points to the ground; followed by pointing at his eyes to the cave entrance.

---

Hopefully that makes sense as you go, I'll keep watching!

In reply to Astrid Silverveil (msg # 323):

The three fall down sleeping on the spot!

This is the part Astrid wasn't fond of;  but unless Adan was interested in the honors, she drew the knife that rode at her hip, and set about slicing the throats of two of them.

She did check them out first; if one had any marking or insignia that would indicate him a leader, then she chose that one to live.   And if no, chose at random.   She did check the other two for the presence of any keys, or other items that would be prudent to acquire.

And then got Adan's assistance to carry the captive back to where the party was.

Once, there she performed the charm spell, and then shook the knobby little guy awake...

[Language unknown: "Uliopr iltrek.  Om stroerthi ei ro adtiri eles,"] she tried in Gnomish. [Language unknown: "Chli, e onstie.  Resillave ng sipa, are waus u." ]

Adan has no scruples about despatching vermin and does so.
He hoists the captive over one shoulder making it seem easy and then deposits the sleeper where Astrid indicates.

Ulle was fine with killing Kobolds, but he wished he could have gotten Astrid to put it off. If they had killed them away from the mine, the others might easily think they had wandered off. Now they would be alerted to danger the next time they chanced on the guard.

Seemed a shame to waste revealing themselves that way.

What was done was done however. As the surviving prisoner was taken for questioning, he kept to the fore, stealthy, but watching for danger. Such discourse was not something he excelled at.
This message was last edited by the player at 21:58, Fri 21 Jan 2022.

Kestrel nodded at Astrid as the three kobolds collapsed from her spell.

While Adan carries the prisoner away, the ranger grabs the two corpses and pulls them away from the cave entrance, depositing them behind any nearby cover.

Adan remains quietly observant, steadily sharpening his sword.

In reply to Adan Rae (msg # 332):

The kobold just looks at you Astrid, bewilderment in his eyes. He doesn't speak gnome. Who has Kobold or Draconic?

Astrid turned to Hearty Barty.  "You speak Kobold...don't you?" 

If no:   Astrid turned to Dane.  "Dwarves all speak some of their tongue.  Don't they?"

In reply to Astrid Silverveil (msg # 334):

Adan and Dain speak kobold!

"Superb," remarked Astrid.  "If someone's jaw gets weary, we have a backup," she nodded cheerfully.

I think the easiest thing is to assume someone's translating, rather than force a player to re-post everything.  But, I'll leave that to GM and said player...

"Hello there, you clever, vigilant little man. How are you? How was your day going, prior to getting a bit sleepy?  Anything unusual or different?"