Beyond the World's Edge: A Frontier Campaign (Inactive)

Game Master vayelan

Current Encounter: Ruins in the Sogg

Resources:
The Village of Haven

River Delta Regional Map

Downtime Calendar
Rooms and Buildings Guide
Teams and Organizations Guide


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Between Kalig, Mia, and Soraya, a few key details about bulette anatomy are known. The meat is inedible, producing a violent allergic reaction when consumed by most humanoids. On the other hand, the incredibly resilient and elastic tendons that hold the beast's muscle and bones together are useful for sewing, fletching, making bowstrings, and cordage in tool and trap making.

One point of warning, though, are the bulette's potent stomach acids. The creature's six stomachs contain acids that only the toughest of magical metals can resist, which allows it to consume almost any prey whole. Thus, when dissecting a land shark for leather, plates, tendons, and other usable materials, extreme caution must be taken not to puncture the stomachs.


Male Human Cavalier (Order of the Lion) 4, HP 40/40, F: +6, R: +2, W: -1, Init: +1, Per: -2, Sense Motive: 0 (-2 if challenged), AC: Dorick 18, Caragus 19

"I see. Butchering the beast will require a steady hand, a skilful mind, and a stout heart."


Urban Druid 6 [ HP: 42/42 AC: 16 T: 11 FF: 15 | CMD 17 | Fort +6, Ref +4, Will +8 +1 vs death +2 vs div/ench| Init +1 Perc: +12/+14 scavenger; Dkvision, Scent; Surv +14 | Goodberries 7/7

Since some of the orcs and hobgoblins have come to view the scene, Kalig calls out to the ones she recognizes as hunters, and asks them to help be sure the beast is dressed safely, so the tanner can finish his skinning properly and the bones and tendons can be acquired--noting of course that whomever helps, if successful, should have some of the parts to make bows and the like.

She offers whatever assistance she can:

Survival: 1d20 + 12 ⇒ (3) + 12 = 15
Knowledge Nature: 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (9) + 10 = 19

She nods to Francoix."We can't eat this beast but we've been up late fighting and working. I don't suppose you'd be able to whip up a porridge or something to supply some fortitude? We can't let this thing sit till morning, it'll just spoil and draw scavengers."


Male Human Cavalier (Order of the Lion) 4, HP 40/40, F: +6, R: +2, W: -1, Init: +1, Per: -2, Sense Motive: 0 (-2 if challenged), AC: Dorick 18, Caragus 19

Dorick knows his fieldcraft is less than superb. Thus, he focuses on maintaining readiness in case said scavengers arrive early.


F Human Witch-4 | HP 28/28 | AC 13, FF 11, T 12 | F+3 R+3 W+4 CMD 14 | Init+1 Perception +4(+9 in darkness) (Owl Perception+11) | Active effects:

Soraya is interested enough in the bulette to help with its dissection for tissues. She produces some glass flasks wondering if they'd be able to contain some of the creature's digestive juices. For the moment, she plans to do a rough sketch of bulette anatomy. Should make for quite an interesting study.


Aristide's porters arrive bearing torches to better mark the site, ward off predators, and ease the tanner's work. Kalig's help ensures that the overzealous Connetlie does not damage the hide or his own hands while setting upon the slain beast.

The orcs and hobgoblins cluster closely, keeping strict company with their own kin, to watch the show of butchery. Like attendants at an auction, they begin laying claim to teeth and particular plates. A few times, calloused fingers reach out to try and seize a piece, but they are quickly driven back. As squabbling begins to bubble up not just between racial groups but even within them, you worry that a fight may break out.

The delicate work upon such a massive, mightily built beast will take many hours - if not days.

Also feel free to make capital rolls and describe actions for the last few days before the rest of the settlers arrive from upriver.


F Human Witch-4 | HP 28/28 | AC 13, FF 11, T 12 | F+3 R+3 W+4 CMD 14 | Init+1 Perception +4(+9 in darkness) (Owl Perception+11) | Active effects:

craft:alchemy: 1d20 + 11 ⇒ (18) + 11 = 29
craft:alchemy: 1d20 + 11 ⇒ (18) + 11 = 29
couple of alchemy rolls to keep us in medical supplies. Wish I could help with the bulette squabbles, but I'm not really a diplomat.
edit: HA! Maybe I could have helped with those rolls


Male Human Cavalier (Order of the Lion) 4, HP 40/40, F: +6, R: +2, W: -1, Init: +1, Per: -2, Sense Motive: 0 (-2 if challenged), AC: Dorick 18, Caragus 19

Dorick makes a point of getting involved with those disputing.

"What is all this ruckus about? There is plenty of the beast for everyone! Let us keep focused on getting it stripped and us back to our homes!"

Diplomacy: 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (8) + 10 = 18

************************************

Dorick does his best to help sort places for incoming settler animals to go.

Handle Animal: 1d20 + 11 ⇒ (6) + 11 = 17

Handle Animal: 1d20 + 11 ⇒ (4) + 11 = 15


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Urban Druid 6 [ HP: 42/42 AC: 16 T: 11 FF: 15 | CMD 17 | Fort +6, Ref +4, Will +8 +1 vs death +2 vs div/ench| Init +1 Perc: +12/+14 scavenger; Dkvision, Scent; Surv +14 | Goodberries 7/7
Quote:
The orcs and hobgoblins cluster closely, keeping strict company with their own kin, to watch the show of butchery. Like attendants at an auction, they begin laying claim to teeth and particular plates. A few times, calloused fingers reach out to try and seize a piece, but they are quickly driven back. As squabbling begins to bubble up not just between racial groups but even within them, you worry that a fight may break out.
Quote:

Dorick makes a point of getting involved with those disputing.

"What is all this ruckus about? There is plenty of the beast for everyone! Let us keep focused on getting it stripped and us back to our homes!"

Diplomacy: 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (8) + 10 = 18

Kalig contributes with her own rough diplomacy, straightening and baring her teeth.

"We fought this beast, for all of the people of this town, which you are supposed to be a part of. We are doing the work of dressing it, and are not your servants. If you want a prize, you will join us and work for it." She pauses, pointing to some of the orc pig farmers. "Like you, you helped us make the musk. You have a right to make a claim. Others of you could help cut or fetch and carry and you too can make a claim." She places her hands on her hips. "But if you don't want to work, then take your quarrels away from here. If you don't like what we are saying, just remember which of us took this great beast down, and who did not, and think hard on what you choose to do next."

Aid Another, Diplomacy: 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (8) + 5 = 13

=====
This assumes fighting does NOT break out.

The following day, after she has gotten some rest, she asks to see Aristide, along with any of her usual compatriots who are available to meet.

"I am worried about the orcs and hobgoblins. We have had them join us, and the hobgoblins in particular were supposed to be hired to protect the settlement. But they remain insular and tribal, and of course many of the humans and humankin fear them and make no overtures of friendship either. All keep to their own and it is hard to find openings to bring people together. But this town will fail if we cannot be united. If the hobgoblins only look to one another, we can't count on them for protection, no matter how Fendir urges them to build stockades. If the orcs never work with the other farmers or hunters, then there will be fighting when we hit shortages or bad weather. I don't know what to do. But we will tear ourselves apart if we don't come up with something."

===

Later through the week Kalig works on her stall and her garden.

Capital Checks
Knowledge Nature: 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (16) + 10 = 26
Survival: 1d20 + 12 ⇒ (13) + 12 = 25


The orc-kin and hobgoblins share at least one common trait: neither dares cross two of the strongest pillars holding up this nascent community. The combination of Dorick's brief but direct challenge and Kalig's impassioned rhetoric ensures that all squabbling over the beast ends, and none assembled even entertain the idea of starting a fight.

The hobgoblin hunters retrieve their knives and tools, aiding in the flaying. Under Fendir's watchful eyes, they politely adhere to Connetlie's directions - and tolerate his personality. Harkan arrives, his shield catching the moonlight, and orders his kin to keep watch over the impromptu work site.

I will update the Downtime Calendar when I get home from work.
I need to review previous posts and do a bit of math to determine what projects have been completed.

.....

The following morning finds continued peace as work continues to dissect the slain bulette. However, Aristide agrees with Kalig's assessment regarding the long-term cohesion of Haven, although some of his retainers appear skeptical of blending the disparate groups.


Male Human Cavalier (Order of the Lion) 4, HP 40/40, F: +6, R: +2, W: -1, Init: +1, Per: -2, Sense Motive: 0 (-2 if challenged), AC: Dorick 18, Caragus 19

"There is the nascent militia, which is one of the few points of crossover. But I agree, there is too little cohesiveness in Haven."


The week of 22 Desnus rolls around, and the dwarven riverboats are spotted on the western horizon. As the flat-bottomed vessels roll downriver, Connetlie finds reason pause his work at the bulette to grumble.

"If the dwarves had ships, why did we have to march east on blistering feet, alongside the oxen and their dust?"

"Because," Hovant explains, staring down his nose at the tanner, "The barges would not have been large enough to carry all the supplies, tools, lumber, and stone we needed to build our homes while still having room for our people."

Although the morning finds the finishing touches put upon Dorick's bunkhouse and Francoix's kitchen, joining the recent completion of Kalig's stall for Matilda and the workshops of Mia and Seraphina, the rest of the day sees little work getting done. The settlers are far too excited to welcome their kin and receive news from Avistan.

Practically every human settler descends the hillside to the river's edge to greet the two barges groan to a halt below Haven. Cheers and joyous hollers ring out from both sides, and planks are laid down for passengers to disembark. The first to come ashore is an irritated brown cat, followed closely by the familiar dwarven matriarch, Freya Brightshield.


Male Human Cavalier (Order of the Lion) 4, HP 40/40, F: +6, R: +2, W: -1, Init: +1, Per: -2, Sense Motive: 0 (-2 if challenged), AC: Dorick 18, Caragus 19

Atop Caragus, Dorick raises his halberd to catch the light and salute the newcomers, cheering as he does so!


Male Human Rogue 6 HP 39/39 AC 17, T 13 FF 14 CMD 15 / F 2 R 8 W 3 / Init +3 Percep +8

He had been working hard on getting the kitchen ready to go with all the folks set to arrive but... while he had been working he had been thinking about the problem with the different race of folks involved in the undertaking and well how they werent exactly becoming a stew.

baking: 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (12) + 7 = 19
cook: 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (5) + 7 = 12

When he got a moment he tried to get a somewhat private moment with the count.

"Greetings Milord, I've uh been putting some thought into the problems with all the folk coming together and it occured to the issue is how were are cooking this stew so to speak. Letting folk settle where they want seemed a fine idea, but its leading to the different races keeping to themselves. Perhaps if we start everyone working together on building homes in the same area, and settle a different sort of family in each home side by side we can get folk to well start being more neighborly.


Urban Druid 6 [ HP: 42/42 AC: 16 T: 11 FF: 15 | CMD 17 | Fort +6, Ref +4, Will +8 +1 vs death +2 vs div/ench| Init +1 Perc: +12/+14 scavenger; Dkvision, Scent; Surv +14 | Goodberries 7/7

Kalig salutes those arriving, and then after appropriate general greetings, addresses the imperious leading lady who first comes to shore (casting speak with animals first):

"Hello, kit. What is the matter?"


Male Human (Taldan) Fighter/Aristocrat

"Your concern is well merited," the Viscount replies to Francoix. He closes a book, evidently studying up on Kelish, to intently consider the future innkeeper's suggestion.

"Admittedly, I feel a slight reluctance to decree where people can and cannot live. That does seem to sabotage the frontier spirit, does it not? Also, considering how many of us trace our roots back to Galt, although we disown the anarchy, the spirit of freedom itself is hard to part with.

"At this point in our endeavor, I daresay that you and your compatriots have overshadowed me in terms of contributions to our Haven. Thus, the settlers will likely heed you better than me. You have my blessing to attempt this plan, if that is what you seek.

"Consider that your own inn could serve as a focal point. Whether human, hobgoblin, or orc - I doubt any of our settlers would turn up their nose at being neighbors to the smells of your kitchen."


Kalig:
The cat abruptly pauses its frantic grooming and looks up at you in confusion when you address him. After a moment, his ears lift up, signalling that he is less on edge.

"I hate that table," the cat declares, referring to the barge. "It moves up and down too much. There are too many other people standing on it. There are no good places to hide. There were no mice to catch."

The cat pauses both his grooming and tirade to look around the broad hillside. His yellow eyes fixate upon the dwarven noblewoman.

"The worst is that mama is upset. Bumping my head against her chin helped a little, but she always started to worry again."

Lady Brightshield offers a polite, quiet greeting to the party that belies the time and distance that has separated you.

"My brother sends his regards and regrets," she says in a voice as soft as the wind. "He works on behalf of the thane to calm the worries of our kin. He also suggested that I not share news of politics and upheaval until we were in a more private setting."


Male Human Cavalier (Order of the Lion) 4, HP 40/40, F: +6, R: +2, W: -1, Init: +1, Per: -2, Sense Motive: 0 (-2 if challenged), AC: Dorick 18, Caragus 19

A serious cast covers Dorick's face at Lady Brightshield's words.

He says:

"Then, Lady Brightshield, let us accompany you to Lord Aristide."


active effects:
Barkskin, Greater Magic Fang, Longstrider, spider climb, Elemental form(small earth)
Human Druid (menhir Savant) 6, HP: 50/50| AC: 18(21) T:12 FF: 16 | Fort: +8 | Ref: +5 | Will: +10| Init: +4| Perception: +13

Mia spends most of the renaming few days trying to finish her small home and shop. she shies away from most public events.


F Human Witch-4 | HP 28/28 | AC 13, FF 11, T 12 | F+3 R+3 W+4 CMD 14 | Init+1 Perception +4(+9 in darkness) (Owl Perception+11) | Active effects:

Soraya's terribly glad to see that the others have made it. She strongly believes in safety in numbers. Brightshield's words about needing privacy to speak however strikes a much more somber tone.


Male Human Rogue 6 HP 39/39 AC 17, T 13 FF 14 CMD 15 / F 2 R 8 W 3 / Init +3 Percep +8

Taking what the count had put into words he nodded his understanding of course folks might not take too well to being told where to live. So instead as he was preparring the minibanquet for the arriving folks he announced a couple of times that he was looking to the future, Once the inn was fully built he would need cooks and server's bartenders, cleaning folk. Since they were a colorful group, he wanted to hire from all the races gathered... He was also willing to help build homes near the inn for any folk hired...

diplomacy: 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (12) + 7 = 19

Im hoping that he could hire a few folks and well get them building mixed group like around the inn, maybe a few others will do simular things and all

When the group is gathered to the count's side he gladly excused himself from the serving lines to join in,


Francoix's words prove just as appealing to the Haven-folk as his cooking. However, talk of hiring cooks and servers elicits nervous glances and awkward shuffling. The first wave of settlers came with specific trades necessary to founding the village: farmers, fishers, woodcutters, and artisans.

"My beloved grandchildren will soon arrive," Fergus d'Beranza muses while inhaling the aroma of the ingredients as he passes the kitchen. "Perhaps I could convince one or two of them to learn such a noble vocation."

The suggestion sends a jolt through his son, Melgus, and the younger d'Beranza pulls his father aside. A muted though clearly bitter conversation ensues as Melgus is quite aghast at the thought of his noble kin working as "servants" or barkeeps.

Harkan arrives with a pair of orc children in tow. One boy and one girl, they help him carry cuts of meat wrapped in fronds of long grass.

"An offering for this feast," Harkan announces, ushering forth the two children to present their parcels. "We caught some game over night. Some fresh meat will help make a proper meal.

"I'd also like to introduce you to Fan and Jorman," he says to Francoix in a more subdued voice, gesturing to the children. "They were barely weaned when we were driven from our tribe, so they know nothing of war. Perhaps you could teach them a skill that would be useful for this new home of ours."

.....

In Aristide's personal pavilion - in which he still dwells, as he insists his retainers focus on building homes for the other settlers first - you meet with the Viscount, his steward and bodyguard, and Lady Brightshield, accompanied by her feline familiar.

"As I'm sure Lord Aristide has told you, Taldor now wages war against Galt," the dwarven wizardess speaks, soft and somber. "What little news we have out of the empire suggests that the Grand Prince has adopted a general as heir, and he aims to start building a legacy by conquering Galt while it is still gripped in anarchy. Our hold has sealed its western gates, lest either side rediscover our presence and draw us into the conflict."

She sighs heavily, sinking into her seat.

"The elders' council decreed that the rest of your people had to leave immediately. I assure you, my brother plead their case strenuously, but the council could not be dissuaded. They feared one of the settlers might leak information to outside forces."


Urban Druid 6 [ HP: 42/42 AC: 16 T: 11 FF: 15 | CMD 17 | Fort +6, Ref +4, Will +8 +1 vs death +2 vs div/ench| Init +1 Perc: +12/+14 scavenger; Dkvision, Scent; Surv +14 | Goodberries 7/7

Reply to the Cat:

Kalig acts appropriately offended. "No mice? Well, you'll find plenty here." She gestures in the direction of the farms and the wood-and-clay grain silos they have been building. "Plenty of fish too." She plucks a strand of fish drying on a rack near the docks and offers it (taking note to offer the fisherman a copper or two later). "Maybe you're sick of fish, but we have better to offer later."

"As for your mama, you are doing well to care for her. It seems we shall see what is wrong if we follow." She points to Dorick offering to escort Lady Brightshield.[/b]

Kalig follows Dorick (along with the cat) as he escorts Lady Brightshield to Aristide.

For the moment, she listens as the others talk.


Male Human Cavalier (Order of the Lion) 4, HP 40/40, F: +6, R: +2, W: -1, Init: +1, Per: -2, Sense Motive: 0 (-2 if challenged), AC: Dorick 18, Caragus 19

"These are troubling words indeed! Have ye heard aught of how the war fares? Has it neared your borders?"


"My divinations have shown that Taldor's armies follow the river's western shores, keeping away from the mountains and focusing upon the settlements on the Horun Plain," Lady Brightshield replies. "Although they inadvertently give us a wide berth, that does little to allay our kin's worries."

Lady Brightshield pauses to sip at the tea that Aristide's retainers have provided.

"Taldor has already seized Tregan in the southern hills and now use it as a staging point. They already approach Litran without facing much organized resistance."


Urban Druid 6 [ HP: 42/42 AC: 16 T: 11 FF: 15 | CMD 17 | Fort +6, Ref +4, Will +8 +1 vs death +2 vs div/ench| Init +1 Perc: +12/+14 scavenger; Dkvision, Scent; Surv +14 | Goodberries 7/7

"Your kin's worries are allayed but yours aren't. You're tense. Is it the advance that disturbs you, or something else?"


"It is my kin that worry me," Lady Brightshield replies sadly. "Our hold was finally emerging from a long decline, but now they risk it all by retreating into isolation and casting out friends."

Her feline familiar rises from its loaf-like posture and trots over to bump its head against the dwarven wizardess' shin. The cat sits back down, this time closer to its master, and begins growing itself.

"Even if Galt or Taldor rediscovered our hold's presence, I doubt we would ever have needed fear war. Decay from within was always the greater threat, but one that they cannot see.

"Sometimes I just can't understand other people. My brother has always been more aware when it comes to social and emotional matters, so he serves as speaker for the thane. Seeing our kin ignore his pleas when I know he's right...it's so frustrating."


Male Human Cavalier (Order of the Lion) 4, HP 40/40, F: +6, R: +2, W: -1, Init: +1, Per: -2, Sense Motive: 0 (-2 if challenged), AC: Dorick 18, Caragus 19

"Perhaps seeing Haven thrive might give his ideas of rejuvenation more credence with your people?", Dorick says hopefully.


F Human Witch-4 | HP 28/28 | AC 13, FF 11, T 12 | F+3 R+3 W+4 CMD 14 | Init+1 Perception +4(+9 in darkness) (Owl Perception+11) | Active effects:

Soraya wishes there was something she could say, but doesn't feel like she has anything helpful to add.


"Many residents of Stoneriver have already adopted a siege mentality, becoming quite covetous and miserly," Lady Brightshield adds ruefully. "Thus, they have withheld much of the aid that we'd hoped to deliver. Ulfgar and I used our family's own resources to purchase additional supplies, but it remains considerably less than what was promised."

The dwarven noblewoman's face tilts to the ground, as though physically pulled by the weight of regret.


Urban Druid 6 [ HP: 42/42 AC: 16 T: 11 FF: 15 | CMD 17 | Fort +6, Ref +4, Will +8 +1 vs death +2 vs div/ench| Init +1 Perc: +12/+14 scavenger; Dkvision, Scent; Surv +14 | Goodberries 7/7

"Your attempt to hold up your end of the deal speaks of the honor they lack, then. And that is sorely needed here." She looks around. "We also struggle with different groups remaining insular. But we need to be united if we are to survive this frontier, with or without supplies. If you feel like you need to make up for what may be lacking with the arrivals here, using your diplomatic skills toward overcoming those barriers here would more than make up for it--and set an example to others."


Male Human Cavalier (Order of the Lion) 4, HP 40/40, F: +6, R: +2, W: -1, Init: +1, Per: -2, Sense Motive: 0 (-2 if challenged), AC: Dorick 18, Caragus 19

"We need friends and allies for our longterm prosperity.", Dorick adds.


Male Human Rogue 6 HP 39/39 AC 17, T 13 FF 14 CMD 15 / F 2 R 8 W 3 / Init +3 Percep +8
DM Vayelan wrote:

Francoix's words prove just as appealing to the Haven-folk as his cooking. However, talk of hiring cooks and servers elicits nervous glances and awkward shuffling. The first wave of settlers came with specific trades necessary to founding the village: farmers, fishers, woodcutters, and artisans.

"My beloved grandchildren will soon arrive," Fergus d'Beranza muses while inhaling the aroma of the ingredients as he passes the kitchen. "Perhaps I could convince one or two of them to learn such a noble vocation."

The suggestion sends a jolt through his son, Melgus, and the younger d'Beranza pulls his father aside. A muted though clearly bitter conversation ensues as Melgus is quite aghast at the thought of his noble kin working as "servants" or barkeeps.

Harkan arrives with a pair of orc children in tow. One boy and one girl, they help him carry cuts of meat wrapped in fronds of long grass.

"An offering for this feast," Harkan announces, ushering forth the two children to present their parcels. "We caught some game over night. Some fresh meat will help make a proper meal.

"I'd also like to introduce you to Fan and Jorman," he says to Francoix in a more subdued voice, gesturing to the children. "They were barely weaned when we were driven from our tribe, so they know nothing of war. Perhaps you could teach them a skill that would be useful for this new home of ours."

.....

"Well Goodman Fergus when they arrive feel free to send them my way, I would gladly teach them what I know, and show them how a life helping others only benefits them and the community."

He said the last part loud enough that his son Melgus could clearly overhear him.

"Even if its just temporarily, I will be glad to teach and pay them."

He promised the older d'Beranza. When he was presented with the two orc youth. He smiled and gave them a serious nod. Leaning over to not loom over them.

"You see that nice lady over there?"

He began pointing to his wife.

"take her this meat your brought us and tell her its going to go in the stew, I will be there to show you what to do next in a moment."

He began waiting until the children were out of earshot.

"Do their uh parents still live?"

He asked concerned. he remembered what being orphaned had led him to for awhile.

--------------------

With the count

"What sort of folk were brought? Just the families of the folks? Any brewers amongst them?"

He asked, while concerning, he didnt think there was a whole lot they could do about wars going about, even in his former homeland. More importantly only a fool waded into Galt, armies or no that morass of chaos was going to eat into the Taldans for sure.


Francoix:

"They are my own blood," Harkan declares, watching the orc boy and girl march over to Noemie. "As far as they will ever know, they are my own blood."

The orc leader delivers a sharp snort, clearly steeling himself for the coming words.

"Jorman was the son of one of my best warriors. His father was flayed by our former chief right before we fled into exile. Fan's mother was one of the chief's concubines. She begged me to take her daughter with me, to find a better life for her. I will keep my word."

The new arrivals represent the family members of the original settlers who were not hardy enough for the journey and founding. They are spouses, children, parents, grandparents, and kin with infirmities.

"Your kin did not spend their weeks in idleness," Lady Brightshield replies to Francoix's question, a faint smile returning to her lined face. "Many sought work with our merchants and artisans, hoping to earn their keep. While these were only very brief apprenticeships at best, they may have learned some new talents."

Almost all of these NPCs are Commoners.
With practice and the proper tools, however, they can be counted as having learned rudimentary Crafts and Professions, like brewing.


Lena pops into the viscount's pavilion, and with many polite apologies, she asks to "borrow" Lady Brightshield for a conversation. She is curious to hear the erudite noblewoman's thoughts about the Kaskkari ruins, and Lena launches into speculation about architectural connections with Koloran and even Ghol-Gan.

Only a few moments later, the pock-marked face of Mr. Buckel also appears in the pavilion.

"We got trouble down by the river," the watchman says, sounding almost bored. "Them dwarves and the hobs are getting riled up. Ain't long before they turn from words to weapons."


Male Human Cavalier (Order of the Lion) 4, HP 40/40, F: +6, R: +2, W: -1, Init: +1, Per: -2, Sense Motive: 0 (-2 if challenged), AC: Dorick 18, Caragus 19

"Then we shall make that cease!", replies Dorick, moving swiftly to Caragus to get to the river swiftly.


Urban Druid 6 [ HP: 42/42 AC: 16 T: 11 FF: 15 | CMD 17 | Fort +6, Ref +4, Will +8 +1 vs death +2 vs div/ench| Init +1 Perc: +12/+14 scavenger; Dkvision, Scent; Surv +14 | Goodberries 7/7

Kalig follows Dorick, asking Buckel along the way what he has already tried in intervening.


"I'm not much for jowling words," Buckel explains in his drawl, following a few steps behind you during the march down to the river landing. "And I dinna think it'd be a good idea to be loosing arrows, so there weren't much I could do. Miss Crookshanks was still down there tryna keep 'em apart, and she's much better with words than me."

You reach the land's crest overlooking the river, near Kalig's shrine to Gozreh at the natural spring. From here, you can see Fendir's wives and kin assembled in tight ranks across from a handful of the dwarven laborers. Although most of the stout folk continue their work, unloading the barges moored to boulders and stakes upon the shore, some of them nod in grumbling agreement as their fellows hurl jibes and taunts at the hobgoblins.

You arrive in time to catch the chief rabblerouser of the dwarves throwing up his arms and bemoaning how they've "been forced to sail far from home and leave our kin all for some ungrateful tuskers and gray faces!"


Male Human Cavalier (Order of the Lion) 4, HP 40/40, F: +6, R: +2, W: -1, Init: +1, Per: -2, Sense Motive: 0 (-2 if challenged), AC: Dorick 18, Caragus 19

Dorick dismounts from Caragus and approaches the group, intending to get between the dwarves and hobgoblins.

"What is the matter here?", he asks clearly.

Diplomacy: 1d10 + 10 ⇒ (8) + 10 = 18


Male Human Rogue 6 HP 39/39 AC 17, T 13 FF 14 CMD 15 / F 2 R 8 W 3 / Init +3 Percep +8

"You there master dwarf unloading, are you with the folk resettling here or just a merchant with the barges? Cause you are insulting my friends there and valued members of this new community. I dont like that at all and im very sure the count wouldnt either."

diplomancy aid: 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (11) + 7 = 18

He began as he carefully lifted his apron over his head and slung it over his arm.


The dwarf scowls and crosses his arms.

"The matter," he begins in a throaty voice, "Is that we just spent nearly a fortnight on rickety barges, floating hundreds of miles from hearth and home, and here it turns out we've been playing errand boys to a bunch of goblin-kin!"

Dorick's commanding presence and Francoix's reasonable appeal work in tandem to keep the situation under control. Fendir's kin hem and haw, but they are dissuaded from exacerbating the simmering conflict. By the same token, the other dwarven porters turn away in embarrassment and focus on their work, daring not to offer validation to the firebrand dwarf.

However, this lone dwarf remains loudly indignant.

"Friends? Valued? Hah!" he scoffs. "You know who'd be some right useful friends?" he asks rhetorically before aiming a thumb at his chest and haughtily waving an arm towards the rest of his crew. "There used to be a dozen clanholds throughout the Fog Peaks, but now Stoneriver is all that's left. We have the likes of them to thank for that."

He punctuates his ire with an accusing finger aimed towards the hobgoblins.


Male Human Cavalier (Order of the Lion) 4, HP 40/40, F: +6, R: +2, W: -1, Init: +1, Per: -2, Sense Motive: 0 (-2 if challenged), AC: Dorick 18, Caragus 19

Dorick looks the dwarf in the eye.

"Fendir and his tribe vowed to help defend the caravan and colony. They have done just that since I have known them. While often too standoffish for my tastes, they have kept their word. Unless you have more than vague handwaving of 'the likes of them', I suggest that you attend to your own duties."

Diplomacy: 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (15) + 10 = 25

Sense Motive: 1d20 + 0 ⇒ (10) + 0 = 10


Urban Druid 6 [ HP: 42/42 AC: 16 T: 11 FF: 15 | CMD 17 | Fort +6, Ref +4, Will +8 +1 vs death +2 vs div/ench| Init +1 Perc: +12/+14 scavenger; Dkvision, Scent; Surv +14 | Goodberries 7/7

Kalig stands and listens, trying to let the humans deal with it, but hearing what the dwarves have to say, the better part of valor fails.

"We and Fendir's tribe of hobgoblins marched here on foot over the course of several fortnights, and they protected us night and day. You honorless weaklings have the luxury of sailing down here on a barge and you whine about how you've been inconvenienced, when without these folk there would be no settlement here to meet you at all--nor anywhere to run from the Taldanes."

"If you want to be part of this town, you can start by thanking Fendir's people. If you don't, you can head right back the way you came."

She retrieves her flail from its slot under the shield on her back. "And if you've got a problem with tuskers, you can start with me."

Diplomacy???: 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (15) + 5 = 20
Intimidate: 1d20 - 1 ⇒ (9) - 1 = 8


Kalig's approach is more akin to Intimidate, so I will use her first roll for that.

"I'm glad I have not intention of becoming 'part of this town,'" the rabblerousing dwarf says, unable to control the nervous cracking of his voice. "Once we get these supplies unloaded, Lady Brightshield will be using her magic to transport us back up river - back home where we belong."

Although this lone dwarf has likely not learned an importance lesson today, he has been cajoled and cowed into remaining quiet for the rest of the day. The rest of his crew have likewise been reminded of their manners and offer no more insults towards their hosts. Most importantly, there will be no riverside brawling this day.

As you step away, leaving the dwarves to continue their work, one of Fendir's kin offers you a nod. It is not a gesture of confidence, born from having triumphed in a conflict. Instead, it is a grateful gesture, presenting wordless thanks for standing up for them - something you suspect that are yet unused to.

Craning your heads towards the landrise overlooking the river, you also notice Lady Brightshield standing there. Miss Kensley is still at her side, discussing ancient architecture, but the stout noblewoman remains more focused on what has transpired below.

"My brother offered to recruit the barges' crew," she explains, her tone apologetic. "Perhaps he might have put together a friendlier roster. As it stands, I merely recruited them based upon aptitude in their profession. I see now how this has worked against us. I am sorry for their impolite words."


Male Human Cavalier (Order of the Lion) 4, HP 40/40, F: +6, R: +2, W: -1, Init: +1, Per: -2, Sense Motive: 0 (-2 if challenged), AC: Dorick 18, Caragus 19

"It turned out that no one was worse for wear, Lady Brightshield. Hopefully there will be few incidents such as that."


Urban Druid 6 [ HP: 42/42 AC: 16 T: 11 FF: 15 | CMD 17 | Fort +6, Ref +4, Will +8 +1 vs death +2 vs div/ench| Init +1 Perc: +12/+14 scavenger; Dkvision, Scent; Surv +14 | Goodberries 7/7

Kalig returns the nod to the hobgoblin and heads on her way once things seem calmed.

When Lady Brightshield apologizes. "We can handle impoliteness, Brightshield," Kalig says, never one to offer honorifics. "But fomenting conflict in a barely unified town is a danger to those of us who live here."

"That said I apologize for drawing my weapon on your employee. I speak a few languages and some of them are blunter than others."


"I think my brother would have approved of the gesture," she replies to Kalig, the hint of a smile playing across her face. "He would say that 'even Folgrit occasionally needs to scold her family.' Admittedly, I spent much of the voyage wishing he had come in my place.

"Before we departed Stoneriver, my brother shared a surprising secret with me," she adds, lowering her voice. "He actually envisions convincing some of our kin to settle here alongside you, to make Stoneriver and Haven sister communities. I can see the logical merit, but I doubt even his silver tongue could persuade the old grumblers to allow such a thing."


Urban Druid 6 [ HP: 42/42 AC: 16 T: 11 FF: 15 | CMD 17 | Fort +6, Ref +4, Will +8 +1 vs death +2 vs div/ench| Init +1 Perc: +12/+14 scavenger; Dkvision, Scent; Surv +14 | Goodberries 7/7

"Perhaps the first step is to establish trade. We are working on getting the different groups who live here to consider themselves part of one community. A fourth group also inclined to isolationism and racism will only make things worse. But if over time those who trade with us see us managing well, we might be able to overcome some differences." She thinks. "Maybe a festival as well, when the time is right. Something to encourage everyone to come out and play with one another, as well as welcome visitors from other places."


At Lady Brightshield's behest, the conversation returns to the privacy of the pavilion.

"I can't offer much insight on festivals," she says, her neck sheepishly sinking a bit into her shoulders. "Once again, that was always my brother's time to shine. As a young man, he'd throw himself into the revelry, reciting poetry to any young lady who'd listen. Nowadays, he's usually the master of ceremonies, doing his best to keep up morale. My whole life, I usually just tuck myself away in my chambers and read. Sizable crowds make me anxious."

The dwarven wizardess perks up slightly, although her face maintains its usual inscrutable expression.

"The Viscount did inform me that you've had success making contact with visitors from Kelesh. I've read quite a bit about their customs. They are gregarious and eager to make friends, and they usually bring significant wealth to those friends. In fact..."

A gleam flickers in her eye. She reaches out and mutters some words, and a journal flies from her satchel across the pavilion and slides into her waiting hands. She pulls out a brass inkpen and begins furiously scribbling her thoughts onto the pages.

"If Haven were to become a trade intermediary, then Keleshite goods could be bartered back to Stoneriver. The prospect of such a trade link could chip away at my kin's isolationism. In return, we could send more basic supplies down river. We could fell trees from the mountainside, build more barges, and exchange more stone, lumber, and food for your growing village."

Her speech comes much faster than before, clearly caught up in the excitement of sketching out a plan.


Male Human Cavalier (Order of the Lion) 4, HP 40/40, F: +6, R: +2, W: -1, Init: +1, Per: -2, Sense Motive: 0 (-2 if challenged), AC: Dorick 18, Caragus 19

"That sounds like quite a promising notion. I would see us grow prosperous on trade."

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