Dungeon World PBP play (Inactive)

Game Master Elsine

I join Ron and Jericho at the mayor's office, assuming that we'll retreat to the tavern afterwards. Both people I'll need with me will be there.

Sheridan looks about at the sullen townsfolk and catches Bucky's attention... It takes a minute for her to realize she's talking to a random guardsman in banded mail. She apologizes and goes to find Ron.

Sometime during the journey, Sheridan has swapped the large lobster cage for a wicker basket of equal magnitude, smaller tanks and cages are still lashed to its sides, but from the quiet, satisfied sounds coming from the basket, it's clear the apophis is sleeping inside.

"I know you're busy, but are we going to be sitting still overnight? I might be able to set something up to lift these folks' spirits, but I need a little time to get TAM set up."

Belym, after confirming Ron saw the same thing she did, spends the return trip in quiet contemplation, turning the cloudy stone over in her (gloved) hands. While Ron tends to the prisoners, she'll return to the town apothecary, offering the collected Braxan poultices and trying to purchase a supply of potions before heading to join Ron at the mayor's office.

As I recall, the apothecary was griping about a fortnight's work replacing the poultices we bought previously. Hopefully the resupply will improve his attitude somewhat. I'd like to buy 10 potions (2 per party member), assuming everyone thinks that's a reasonable use of money - between Tom, Sheri, and TAM, we'd have plenty of load to haul that much money back here.

Supply if needed: 2d6 ⇒ (5, 5) = 10

Sheridan looks about at the sullen townsfolk and catches Bucky's attention... It takes a minute for her to realize she's talking to a random guardsman in banded mail. She apologizes and goes to find Ron.

Sometime during the journey, Sheridan has swapped the large lobster cage for a wicker basket of equal magnitude, smaller tanks and cages are still lashed to its sides, but from the quiet, satisfied sounds coming from the basket, it's clear the apophis is sleeping inside.

"I know you're busy, but are we going to be sitting still overnight? I might be able to set something up to lift these folks' spirits, but I need a little time to get TAM set up."

Aye, it has been a long day and we must stay while the town mourns. Any ideas ye have to improve morale would be welcome. I also need to take care of this Lord Commander nonsense.

The mayors house

a moment after you knock on the door, the mayor opens the door, shouting to the meeting room over his shoulder. He sees you. You're here, excellent, the meeting itself can begin now!

He leads you to the room, chattering all the way You've done well, but from what Owen and Jericho told me, the main force is still out there, and could fall upon any nearby town anytime. also, is it true that you have taken Selwyn Tarak captive? That could be trouble, the Taraks will no doubt try to recover him.

you arrive in the room, and see 4 others there already. One bears the broken tower of Chillhollow on his tunic, another next to her is clad in armour emblazoned with the spear and bridge of fort Rannick. Across from him is Natria, the assistant mayor of Ghostmoor (recognizable because she is the only half elf in the region), and finally there is a man from Glimmerguard, a small town about 15 miles west of Norwich.

The man from Fort Rannick comes forward, and says Lord commander, I am glad you are here. could you give us a rundown of the threat?

What do you do?

Norwich

as you move through the town, a small girl (Perhaps 7 years old) with pigtails and flowers in her hair, comes up to you, and asks Miss, are you the mermaid?. What do you do?

The Gathered Militia

What skills do you want from your assistants?

The Apothecary

The apothecary is very pleased to have the new supplies, and she offers you 140 coins off the potions, bringing your total to 360 coins. what do you do?

Belym concludes her business at the apothecary, and heads to meet up with Ron.

Belym will hand everyone a pair of healing potions the next time she sees them - heals for everyone!

I raise an eyebrow at Natria, but say nothing. Half-elves have a bit of a...complicated relationship with real full elves. I'd rather not complicate these obviously wrought proceedings with more politics.

Still, it's a shock to see a halfblood living such a public life. Assistant Mayor! He wonders if her sylvan parent stayed around her long enough to let her know the risk she's put herself in.

I raise an eyebrow at Natria, but say nothing. Half-elves have a bit of a...complicated relationship with real full elves. I'd rather not complicate these obviously wrought proceedings with more politics.

Still, it's a shock to see a halfblood living such a public life. Assistant Mayor! He wonders if her sylvan parent stayed around her long enough to let her know the risk she's put herself in.

oooh, risk. tell me more. :)

I'm thinking that since elves are super isolationistic, maybe some of the more hardcore elf-supermisists take offense at the very existence of "mutt-elves." Maybe there's like the elf version of the Klan that leaves the elven homelands to commit violence against half-elves. It sounds like half-elves are incredibly rare, and if her elf parent didn't let her know about the Red Caps, she may never know that her kind is occasionally hunted.

We're far enough away from elven lands that she's conceivably safe from that sort of thing, but it's still a surprise to Conwall that she's not in hiding, since there's likely no one worthy of fighting an elf (read: Another elf) to protect her.

It should go without saying that Conwall would NEVER participate in any racial violence.

The mermaid in question is casting about town for a good sized clearing to set up the menagerie.

When Sheridan sees the wee one, she reacts like a cornered mealfish, eyes darting around for sanctioned supervision. "Ah- Yes, as you like. Say, you're not a weefolk or a piskie, are ye now? We could both get in a heap o' trouble if we were ter be seen fraternizin' without Lordcaptaincommander Bucky to let folks know I haven't any interest in eatin' ye." Sheridan pauses to consider her own words. "I won't! Eat you, I mean- I haven't. Not the livin' nor a wee one. S'just, I been in trouble fer snacking a'fore an' I'd rather not git in more. -have you ever gotten in trouble? -fer snackin' I mean?"

I'm thinking that since elves are super isolationistic, maybe some of the more hardcore elf-supermisists take offense at the very existence of "mutt-elves." Maybe there's like the elf version of the Klan that leaves the elven homelands to commit violence against half-elves. It sounds like half-elves are incredibly rare, and if her elf parent didn't let her know about the Red Caps, she may never know that her kind is occasionally hunted.

We're far enough away from elven lands that she's conceivably safe from that sort of thing, but it's still a surprise to Conwall that she's not in hiding, since there's likely no one worthy of fighting an elf (read: Another elf) to protect her.

It should go without saying that Conwall would NEVER participate in any racial violence.

When you step out of the hallway, and into the light, Natria almost jumps, and her left hand goes to a dagger at her hip. shedoesn't draw it, but she does stare daggers at you. what do you do?

Why is it that, in every game I'm in, elves turn into horrible racist neonazi's? seriously, this is the 5th game in a row.

Just SOME elves. The bad eggs. Most of us are great, loving moderately tolerant. #notallelves

I hold up my hands non-threateningly

Calm yourself. I'm here on my own accord. If Red Jaques comes pounding on your door, it won't be on my account

The mermaid in question is casting about town for a good sized clearing to set up the menagerie.

When Sheridan sees the wee one, she reacts like a cornered mealfish, eyes darting around for sanctioned supervision. "Ah- Yes, as you like. Say, you're not a weefolk or a piskie, are ye now? We could both get in a heap o' trouble if we were ter be seen fraternizin' without Lordcaptaincommander Bucky to let folks know I haven't any interest in eatin' ye." Sheridan pauses to consider her own words. "I won't! Eat you, I mean- I haven't. Not the livin' nor a wee one. S'just, I been in trouble fer snacking a'fore an' I'd rather not git in more. -have you ever gotten in trouble? -fer snackin' I mean?"

She laughs as you rant, and then begins on an endless number of questions Why do you talk funny? who's bucky? what do mermaids eat? can I pet the squid-crab? where did you come from? Where are you living?. she seems very enthusiastic, what do you do?

"The folk what taught me talked funny. How old are ye? He's some kind of battle-master. What's yer skirt made from? Lotsa juicy meat. How many siblings do ye have? Just dunna call 'er a squid-crab. Why are yer gills so long? A place where th' waters are as th' sky. Is there a place nearby with space to run about? That'd be what the squid-crab's fer. Why do you put stuff on that's not met'al armor?" Sheridan keeps pace with the child's questions as she continues through Norwich, trying to find a clearing to set up TAM. She's curious enough to trade secrets with the wee one, but she's being careful to watch the other dawnfolk and the progression of the sun to see if there are any potential distractions that might interrupt her preparations.

Dunno how you want to resolve this. I was trying to go for the Curiosity(WIS) move, exposing Sheridan to the danger of the little girl to see if it poses a threat to getting TAM set up. It could also be a Discern Realities with a Defy Danger(INT) obstacle. -or, you know, we could just keep asking and answering questions until dusk and nothing bad at all could happen. Σ=

As needed: 2d6 ⇒ (1, 4) = 5
As needed: 2d6 ⇒ (2, 3) = 5

Belym concludes her business at the apothecary, and heads to meet up with Ron.

Belym will hand everyone a pair of healing potions the next time she sees them - heals for everyone!

this transaction finished, you recall Ron going to the Mayors house, and Iron tom planning an excusion to Lexands farm, also, Sheri is about town. what do you do?

Just SOME elves. The bad eggs. Most of us are great, loving moderately tolerant. #notallelves

I hold up my hands non-threateningly

Calm yourself. I'm here on my own accord. If Red Jaques comes pounding on your door, it won't be on my account

he eyes you, but releases her dagger Do tell me, master... well two questions, what is your name, and which of the houses do you serve? her tone gets less harsh as she realizes that she doesn't even know your name, what do you do?

Seeing this niggling matter as more important than the others, Tom talks to some of the militia who he aided before that have since recovered (both because he knows them and he hopes they hold some loyalty from his aide). He asks for a couple of lads who can lead him to the farm (for trailblazer and quartermaster) that are willing to risk the Wargs.

"The folk what taught me talked funny. How old are ye? He's some kind of battle-master. What's yer skirt made from? Lotsa juicy meat. How many siblings do ye have? Just dunna call 'er a squid-crab. Why are yer gills so long? A place where th' waters are as th' sky. Is there a place nearby with space to run about? That'd be what the squid-crab's fer. Why do you put stuff on that's not met'al armor?" Sheridan keeps pace with the child's questions as she continues through Norwich, trying to find a clearing to set up TAM. She's curious enough to trade secrets with the wee one, but she's being careful to watch the other dawnfolk and the progression of the sun to see if there are any potential distractions that might interrupt her preparations.

Dunno how you want to resolve this. I was trying to go for the Curiosity(WIS) move, exposing Sheridan to the danger of the little girl to see if it poses a threat to getting TAM set up. It could also be a Discern Realities with a Defy Danger(INT) obstacle. -or, you know, we could just keep asking and answering questions until dusk and nothing bad at all could happen. Σ=

[dice=As needed]2d6
[dice=As needed]2d6

I think this is just a cute little RP scene. if you want to get her to leave, you will have to DD+Cha, but otherwise, no need.

I'm six, how old are you? My skirt is made of wool, from auntie lyrie's farm, do mermaids wear seaweed? I have two brothers, Edwin and Erik, and three sisters, Zoe, Gwen, and Alison, did you meed Ed? do you mean my hair? There's the common, near the centre of town, is that a wolf in her shell? Do you live with the wolf, and all these Fishies? I'm not old enough to fight yet, so I get to wear wool clothes. Zoe and Ed promised to teach me how to fight when I'm old enough! Did you fight in the battle? What do you do?

Seeing this niggling matter as more important than the others, Tom talks to some of the militia who he aided before that have since recovered (both because he knows them and he hopes they hold some loyalty from his aide). He asks for a couple of lads who can lead him to the farm (for trailblazer and quartermaster) that are willing to risk the Wargs.

Are you promising generous pay, and a share of the loot. you are definitely making it clear what you are setting out to do, and you have a good rep around here

I have nothing to pay but the thrill of the hunt and obligation to the community, but I can offer any loot found outside of magical/dangerous items. I'm not doing this for profit.

I have nothing to pay but the thrill of the hunt and obligation to the community, but I can offer any loot found outside of magical/dangerous items. I'm not doing this for profit.

In that case, roll to recruit with +3

Ron waits to answer until he meets the full group. He bows respectfully and answers.

Greetings. The mayor has probably told ye that Selwyn Tarak is in me custody. It's true, along with his honor guard. He claims the bulk of the forces retreated to a keep, but we will need to question him to determine where this keep is. I suspect it is either the keep on the border that me friends cleared earlier this week, or it is a keep to the (direction? The one with the other circle of Kelos).

The battle was a success, but we lost several men. Their lives bought us time, but the Braxans will be back. He looks down at these words and grimaces.

We destroyed the bulk of their supplies, but Tarak indicated that additional supply wagons will soon reinforce the group at the keep.

Tarak also claims that Braxans along the border are starving. He claims the Prince was approached with an offer to purchase food from Tanard, but the Prince told the Braxans that he would enjoy watching Braxans starve. Out of desperation, the Braxans have made a pact with a group of demonic cultists of Kelos. We have eliminated one of their strongholds, but there is another to the (direction?).

There may be a peaceful solution, but the Prince seems hell bent on war.

2d6 + 3 ⇒ (3, 2) + 3 = 8 Ideally I want trackers and warriors

I am but a priest, I can only continue t' offer my magic and healing ability as aide, though I travel there just t' see the blight and not for profit. Any treasure we find that is not magical or dangerous is yours to keep, Tom says to the small group, If that be not enough, do it for the community and the family that has been forced t' abandon their homestead because the evil affecting the land. And if that fails, chicks dig warg pelts.

Belym heads to the mayor's house and knocks. If asked her business, she'll say she's looking for Ron.
Is there a sage or scholar in town? Anyone who'd know about this stone?

"I'd seen eight deep surges a'fore I left the waters. It's been hard ter keep track since then. Is six a lot? Eight is a lot fer us. When d'ye think you'll be full size? We wear our fins. Ron said met'al was from rocks, what's woll from? I haven't met anyone from here. I'm Sheridan Driftwood. The long stuff on your head is hair? That sounds perfect, thank ye." The merfolk traveler starts heading toward the place the girl mentioned.

"Is that what they're called? He said his name is Bloodwind Gnarl, but I think he made that up to sound scary. He was real scared when we met. Do you have a wolf? When I had ter leave the waters, I had ter find a place fer the other displaced critters. TAM here wasn't using those other spaces. Do ye and yer siblings live together? I had some friends who wanted ter fight. They're hopin' ter stay with yer folk. Mostly I tried ter keep from gettin' hurt any who dinnu need ter get hurt. I dinno do very well. Could ye hold this fer me?"

Sheridan hands the girl something that looks like a spice rack full of oddities like cuttlefish bones, stones, shells, and a few shy little inker critters that scuttle to whatever part of the rack isn't being held. The traveler pulled the rack--which looks like it came from a sunken ship's mess--out from in front of a huge melted glass puddle that moves like canvas. It's halfway out of the cubby where it was being kept before it wobbles on its own and flops onto the ground in the middle of the common. Little tentacles, like roots, grip the ground, and the rest of it unfolds into a huge translucent pool. An odd little eye, like a air bubble with a dark spot, sits in the middle of the pool's bottom. "This is OJ. OJ dunno talk much." The dark spot on the bubble slides toward the little girl.

TAM plodds off toward the river to fetch water.

Ron waits to answer until he meets the full group. He bows respectfully and answers.

Greetings. The mayor has probably told ye that Selwyn Tarak is in me custody. It's true, along with his honor guard. He claims the bulk of the forces retreated to a keep, but we will need to question him to determine where this keep is. I suspect it is either the keep on the border that me friends cleared earlier this week, or it is a keep to the (direction? The one with the other circle of Kelos).

The battle was a success, but we lost several men. Their lives bought us time, but the Braxans will be back. He looks down at these words and grimaces.

We destroyed the bulk of their supplies, but Tarak indicated that additional supply wagons will soon reinforce the group at the keep.

Tarak also claims that Braxans along the border are starving. He claims the Prince was approached with an offer to purchase food from Tanard, but the Prince told the Braxans that he would enjoy watching Braxans starve. Out of desperation, the Braxans have made a pact with a group of demonic cultists of Kelos. We have eliminated one of their strongholds, but there is another to the (direction?).

There may be a peaceful solution, but the Prince seems hell bent on war.

Natria sighs as you mention the prince How did King Simmion sire such a brute? she wonders. The man from fort Rannick chooses to focus on the entrenched enemy. So there is an enemy force not far from here, who hlack leadership, and supplies. I say we should strike now, hard..

The woman from chillhollow asks Where is this keep they retreated to? They did retreat north, towards chillhollow and the keep you cleared out. Einora's circle is some 30 miles to the south, while the Man from Glimmerglade asks What do you know of this circle to the south?

Natria asks, after the rukus has settled down What do you think we should do?

What do you do?

2d6+3 Ideally I want trackers and warriors

I am but a priest, I can only continue t' offer my magic and healing ability as aide, though I travel there just t' see the blight and not for profit. Any treasure we find that is not magical or dangerous is yours to keep, Tom says to the small group, If that be not enough, do it for the community and the family that has been forced t' abandon their homestead because the evil affecting the land. And if that fails, chicks dig warg pelts.

four en step forward, willing to offer their services

Sam (Loyalty 1, protectior 2, Warrior 2) cost: duty. Jericho's brother, he want to clear out the place for Lexand's sake

Burk (loyalty 2, tracker 2) Cost: Debt (you saved his life). He was one of the men who were poisoned, nd he offers his bow in service.

Zoe (loyalty 1, Warrior 3) Cost: Glory, Zoe is an impulsive, but skilled warrior, who wants to reclaim the farm in the hopes it will get her promoted.

Alexa (Loyalty 2, Tracker 2, Protector 1) Cost: Debauchery. Alexa says she wants another fight

Who do you take?

Belym heads to the mayor's house and knocks. If asked her business, she'll say she's looking for Ron.

Is there a sage or scholar in town? Anyone who'd know about this stone?

You are let in, and find the room full of arguing men (See my previous posts for details), and see Ron and Conwall in the middle of it, what do you do?

Yes, there is a sage, by the name of Melite, she might be able to identify the items

"I'd seen eight deep surges a'fore I left the waters. It's been hard ter keep track since then. Is six a lot? Eight is a lot fer us. When d'ye think you'll be full size? We wear our fins. Ron said met'al was from rocks, what's woll from? I haven't met anyone from here. I'm Sheridan Driftwood. The long stuff on your head is hair? That sounds perfect, thank ye." The merfolk traveler starts heading toward the place the girl mentioned.

"Is that what they're called? He said his name is Bloodwind Gnarl, but I think he made that up to sound scary. He was real scared when we met. Do you have a wolf? When I had ter leave the waters, I had ter find a place fer the other displaced critters. TAM here wasn't using those other spaces. Do ye and yer siblings live together? I had some friends who wanted ter fight. They're hopin' ter stay with yer folk. Mostly I tried ter keep from gettin' hurt any who dinnu need ter get hurt. I dinno do very well. Could ye hold this fer me?"

Sheridan hands the girl something that looks like a spice rack full of oddities like cuttlefish bones, stones, shells, and a few shy little inker critters that scuttle to whatever part of the rack isn't being held. The traveler pulled the rack--which looks like it came from a sunken ship's mess--out from in front of a huge melted glass puddle that moves like canvas. It's halfway out of the cubby where it was being kept before it wobbles on its own and flops onto the ground in the middle of the common. Little tentacles, like roots, grip the ground, and the rest of it unfolds into a huge translucent pool. An odd little eye, like a air bubble with a dark spot, sits in the middle of the pool's bottom. "This is OJ. OJ dunno talk much." The dark spot on the bubble slides toward the little girl.

TAM plodds off toward the river to fetch water.

Six isn't a lot, I'll be a grown up, like Zoe, in ten years. How long do Mermaids live? Wool is from sheep Baaing noise, Can I pet this one Points to Glaucus? I love in my house. Ed and Zoe mostly live with the guards, and Eric Lives with Morgaine, but Sara and Gwen Live at home with me, Do you have Brothers or sister?

When you tell her you haven't met anyone from here, she looks sad I just thought you might have met Ed. I'm Allison, can I play with OJ? What does he do?

What do you do?

I sit back and let "Lord Commander" Ron sort out what should be done. These are the sorts of decisions he has to make now, as a leader of men. I'm curious what decision he makes.

"Sixteen." Sheridan makes a trill of melodic notes. "That's a long time ter be a wee one by any long count." Sheridan imitates the noise, nodding. "Merfolk lives are short, but our memories are long. Oh, no-no-no." Sheridan scoops up Glaucus carefully. "This is Glaucus, and he's a grump. He eats a lot o' gross stuff, an' it comes out in all these lil' barbs, here, and here. Touching any of those, even just a one, can give ye terrible nightmares while yer awake. A tough lil'un like you, ye might hurt someone ye like b'cause you think they're a monster... S' real hard fer me to tell y'all apart. S'pecially when yer gettin in an out o' woll and met'al. I might coulda seen Ed. We're born in pods, so I must'a had some siblings."

The merfolk traveler busies herself with sorting through the rack, grinding things together and squirting inks and secretions into an empty shell. She hopes to move the subject along from more questions about family. "OJ's an oasis jelly, they keep a whole world o' life on their back. We're gonna fill OJ up, make sure the waters are right, and start movin' some critters in. Can you swim?"

TAM comes back and vents a full bladder of water into OJ's pool.

It's good of you all to offer your service, we set out in an hour make sure you are prepared. I'll be at the edge of town, you know... by the thing, Tom says. He then goes to pray and seek guidance in a private place, offering some of the dried herbs I have and replacing the empty loops on my cloak with fresh herbs taken from the Braxans.

Cast a Spell (Guidance): 2d6 + 2 ⇒ (1, 5) + 2 = 8 -> I draw unwelcome attention.

"Sixteen." Sheridan makes a trill of melodic notes. "That's a long time ter be a wee one by any long count." Sheridan imitates the noise, nodding. "Merfolk lives are short, but our memories are long. Oh, no-no-no." Sheridan scoops up Glaucus carefully. "This is Glaucus, and he's a grump. He eats a lot o' gross stuff, an' it comes out in all these lil' barbs, here, and here. Touching any of those, even just a one, can give ye terrible nightmares while yer awake. A tough lil'un like you, ye might hurt someone ye like b'cause you think they're a monster... S' real hard fer me to tell y'all apart. S'pecially when yer gettin in an out o' woll and met'al. I might coulda seen Ed. We're born in pods, so I must'a had some siblings."

The merfolk traveler busies herself with sorting through the rack, grinding things together and squirting inks and secretions into an empty shell. She hopes to move the subject along from more questions about family. "OJ's an oasis jelly, they keep a whole world o' life on their back. We're gonna fill OJ up, make sure the waters are right, and start movin' some critters in. Can you swim?"

She answers by throwing her wool dress aside, and diving in in a tunic. SHe surfaces and asks What do you want me to do?

TAM comes back and vents a full bladder of water into OJ's pool.

You mean like... the bladder of a dead (Or very unfortunate) animal, right...

It's good of you all to offer your service, we set out in an hour make sure you are prepared. I'll be at the edge of town, you know... by the thing, Tom says. He then goes to pray and seek guidance in a private place, offering some of the dried herbs I have and replacing the empty loops on my cloak with fresh herbs taken from the Braxans.

[dice=Cast a Spell (Guidance)]2d6+2 -> I draw unwelcome attention.

Sir, Might we have a few hours to rest, we did not get to sleep last night. You should rest as well Sam says.

As you burn the herbs, you see the symbol of your god upon your staff, your path is clear, destroy the Blight-Wolves, and cleanse the farm. What do you do?

What time is it? Would resting put us past daylight?

What time is it? Would resting put us past daylight?

It is less than an hour after dawn, if you rest, you'll reach it by mid afternoon

Yes, of course. We'll meet after lunch and head out to the farm.

Yes, of course. We'll meet after lunch and head out to the farm.

okay, what do you do with your time?

Tom is basically homeless and penniless so he's going to go to stop by to watch Sheridan for a few minutes before heading to the mayor's residence and entering saying he's with Ron. Probably around the same time Belym entered.

Can he catch Belym outside just outside the meeting, or does he have to enter the meeting to speak with any of them?

Ron looks up and nods as Belym (and Tom?) enter, but a flash of concern passes over his face as he realizes that nobody is with Sheridan.

The first thing we are going to do is find a new Lord Commander. He glances meaningfully at Conwall. Jericho has the respect of the soldiers. She would make a fine replacement.

I would guess that the Braxans have taken refuge in the keep that me companions and I recently cleared out. We left the wall in a shoddy state, and as naught but a simple man of Norwhich, I agree that we should strike soon. The Norwhich militia is tired and grieving. Yer forces should set in for a siege. If we wish to avoid further bloodshed, perhaps our towns can agree to trade food for Braxan coin. The prince may be furious, but to me knowledge there is no official proclamation prohibiting this course.

The demon cult is the more insidious threat. There is a woman named Einora who seeks to raise Kelos himself, or some such nonsense. She will need to be eliminated. Me companions and I have proven to be an effective strike force. We should be dispatched to eliminate the cultists to the south, or to prevent more supply wagons from reaching the Braxan army on the border.

He turns to Conwall, Beylm, (and Tom?). What do ye think?

"Your Prince telling the Braxans to starve is appalling. A dwarf of any rank would be exiled for such. If you have the food, cut a deal - and send Tarak and his men back as a sign of good faith." The dwarf is clearly furious, and pauses for a moment to collect herself.
"And I agree about the cultists - Einora will need to be dealt with, and quickly."

I grin. I knew Ron couldn't stay away from the adventure life!

I know I'm but an outsider, but my experience with Jericho has shown she's brave, loyal and just. You couldn't ask for a better Lady Commander. On a darker note, Ron speaks true about the graver threat. These devils mean ruin for the mortal realm. You're best to squash this before it grows out of your ability to contain. If my people caught wind of this cult, their methods to defeat it would be...less selective than to your liking, I'm sure.

Ron starts when Belym suggests that Tarak should be released.

He poisoned loyal men of Norwhich! Moreover, he is a powerful bargaining chip to ensure that all Braxan forces leave our lands. He also has valuable intelligence about these demons. I believe that it would be a mistake to turn him over, but I defer to this council.

Regardless, as my last act as Lord Commander I claim his possessions as is my right.

Ron pulls out the assorted maps and documents that he took from Selwyn's tent and gives them to Natria. Smarter people than I should pour through these. There may be useful information.

Mayor, we confiscated much Braxan coin. I recommend you use it to pay the militia and to reinforce our defenses. Further, my friends are not part of the militia, but risked their lives. They have a right to compensation for their service.

My ears, pointy as they are, perk up to the sound of compensation.

I did this not for the gold, but I could use some funds to purchase more healing potions, and perhaps a new suit of armor. I don't expect any blacksmith can be an elf's equal, but if you can point me towards one who can follow careful instruction I may be able to make an approximation of our smokesteel armor. Thin enough to move nimbly, but tough enough to stop a blade

As a fighter, no armor I wear is "clumsy" but I may as well have a reason why I can bounce around in Armor 2 plate.

Tom is basically homeless and penniless so he's going to go to stop by to watch Sheridan for a few minutes before heading to the mayor's residence and entering saying he's with Ron. Probably around the same time Belym entered.

Can he catch Belym outside just outside the meeting, or does he have to enter the meeting to speak with any of them?

You could crash in the guard's quarters, if you want to rest and level up. and Yeah, you can catch Belym before she goes in, and be there for Ron's statements retroactively

The mayor's house

You and Lady Belym are right!, It is wrong to starve these men Natria says Ghostmoore will send offers of trade as soon as I send word of this to the mayor. The commander of Fort Rannick speaks up as well If Chillhollow will spare 50 men, and Norwhich and Ghostmoor will send supplies, I will take a contingent, and siege the keep.

The man from Glimmerglade stands I side with the prince in this matter, these Braxan dogs have made war upon Tanard for two generations now, I say that we should leave them to suffer He says

The mayor speaks to Ron Are you sure you will not remain to lead the militia? you have been training them for a decade now, and i will be sad to see you go. In terms of payment, i will take 600 to pay the militia's wages, and funeral costs for those who we lost, the rest be yours to deal out as you wish

At Conwalls remark about Elven Smiths, Natria shoots him a withering glare I beleive you will find, ser, that Men have their merits as well, I have found them the equal, or better, of elves in a great many respects

What do you do?

I give Natria a shrug that communicates "I don't necessarily agree, but I'm not especially interested in debating the point"

In any case, before we set out, I'd like to make arrangements with the town's best smith

Catching Belym before entering the main meeting room.

Belym, I'm not one for closed rooms and politics. If you could spare me a few coins, I'd like t' eat some of that fried fish at the public house down by the river... I'm afraid I've spent what resources I had coming here. I've gathered a small group going t' deal with the wargs at Lexand farm. If any of you would like t' come please meet me there after lunch and we'll heard out for the afternoon.

Assuming Belym gives a pudgy bald cleric some coin.

Tom does enjoy a good fried fish, but he takes the money to the tavern and gets quite drunk instead.

Bladder as in, TAM went to the river and sucked up as much water as she could hold, then waddled back to jet the water from the cavity where it was kept into OJ's pool.

Sheridan flashes her too-wide smile, then flinches and covers her mouth. "I've got some tanks o' critters. All ye need ter do is lower them in the water an' let the critters swim out, then hand the tank back. They might get a lil snuggly, just don't go pinchin' or huggin' on 'em."

The traveler pulls a barrel from TAM's side and cracks it open. A hinged colony of coral, tiny ocean fae that build complex hinging structures from their ancestors' bones. The cylinder of coral begins to slowly expand, creating a pen. While the coral set up the petting zoo, Sheridan starts filling the performance stage with the help of Allison and TAM.

To Tom, Belym replies "Of course. Here you go, and enjoy the fish!"

At this point, Belym's also handed a pair of potions to everyone but Sheri.

To the men from Glimmerglade and Fort Rannick, Belym replies, " If you starve any animal, do not be surprised when they do what they must to feed themselves. But, this is not my clan, and you will do as you will.". To Ron, she replies, "I know that. In a just world, he would pay. But if he could help settle this, wouldn't the lives of your militia be a worthwhile trade for his getting off?"

I give Natria a shrug that communicates "I don't necessarily agree, but I'm not especially interested in debating the point"

In any case, before we set out, I'd like to make arrangements with the town's best smith

Natria walks over to you I can do you one better, my mother taught Geralt, the smith in Ghostmoor, some elven smithing. He hasn't the ability to make skysteel, but elven chain and weighting are within his skill. If you and your allies would accompany me on my journey back there, I will gladly give you an introduction she says, clearly eager to prove her point. Ghostmore is to the south, not far from Einora's teritory. what do you do?

Catching Belym before entering the main meeting room.

Belym, I'm not one for closed rooms and politics. If you could spare me a few coins, I'd like t' eat some of that fried fish at the public house down by the river... I'm afraid I've spent what resources I had coming here. I've gathered a small group going t' deal with the wargs at Lexand farm. If any of you would like t' come please meet me there after lunch and we'll heard out for the afternoon.

Assuming Belym gives a pudgy bald cleric some coin.

Tom does enjoy a good fried fish, but he takes the money to the tavern and gets quite drunk instead.

Lorry refuses to charge you for ale, saying I don't charge heroes for their respite and Ye saved me son's life, Ye aren't payin' and tha's final. Several men in the bar toast you when they hear this. What do you do?

Shouldn't you have 3 spells prepped? because you're level 2 now?

Bladder as in, TAM went to the river and sucked up as much water as she could hold, then waddled back to jet the water from the cavity where it was kept into OJ's pool.

Sheridan flashes her too-wide smile, then flinches and covers her mouth. "I've got some tanks o' critters. All ye need ter do is lower them in the water an' let the critters swim out, then hand the tank back. They might get a lil snuggly, just don't go pinchin' or huggin' on 'em."

The traveler pulls a barrel from TAM's side and cracks it open. A hinged colony of coral, tiny ocean fae that build complex hinging structures from their ancestors' bones. The cylinder of coral begins to slowly expand, creating a pen. While the coral set up the petting zoo, Sheridan starts filling the performance stage with the help of Allison and TAM.

The girl eagerly helps you, also eagerly petting the fish you say are safe too. Glaucus is pouting (as much as he can pout), muttering about you taking away a toy. you have your show set up by mid-afternoon, what do you do?

To Tom, Belym replies "Of course. Here you go, and enjoy the fish!"

At this point, Belym's also handed a pair of potions to everyone but Sheri.

To the men from Glimmerglade and Fort Rannick, Belym replies, " If you starve any animal, do not be surprised when they do what they must to feed themselves. But, this is not my clan, and you will do as you will.". To Ron, she replies, "I know that. In a just world, he would pay. But if he could help settle this, wouldn't the lives of your militia be a worthwhile trade for his getting off?"

The man fron Fort Rannick says I agree that it is not right to let men starve when you have a plenty, but we have a foodless, leaderless army in out lands, they are the first threat, and must be dealt with. He says joylessly. The man from Glimmerglade seems upset I beleive that the prince must know more of politics that this collection of border tons, and outsiders. I say we defer to his wisdom

Natria and the mayor both nod to you in approval, what do you do?

I nod at Natria, resisting the urge to meet her kindness with correction. Unless Ghostmoore is several hundred feet above the ground, resting on treetops, it's likely not equipped to make Skysteel. All the same, elven weighted armor would be a good item to have, and Ghostmoore IS on the way.

I almost look to Ron for a decision, but with his new position it may not be wise to give him too much leadership over our own group. The armor is needed, it's within my right to claim it.

I believe we will take you up on your offer Lady Natria. When we leave to smash the coven, we'll make a stop along the way.

Norwhich is my home Mayor, I'm not going anywhere. But my days at the head of an army are behind me. I will continue to train the militia while I am here, but these are dark times, and Norwhich needs more than soldiers.

He gestures to Conwall and Belym. These outsiders have come to our aid again and again. Truthfully, I am an outsider here too. This team has proven its worth, and I will not break it up. We will do what the militia can't do, or won't do.

I will leave the questions of politics to this council. Please don't throw away soldier's lives lightly.

He approaches Conwall and Natria.

Natria, we will be joining you. It has been some time since I have been to Ghostmoore. But before we leave, I'd like to see what Sheridan has planned. Speaking of which, we had best go find her.

To the council, Belym replies "As Ron said - do as you see fit, but it would be a shame for more to die needlessly."

To Ron, she replies " Agreed. Hopefully they're not in too much trouble. I also think we should ask Melite about this stone, and maybe get a good night's sleep before we set out."

A few more onlookers have been drawn in by TAM's pacing and the colorful parade of amphibious creatures that have been loaded into the pen, but it's still not the crowd Sheridan wants to see. "Alright, Allison, we're ready to have some fun, but I need ye ter go out and bring yer friends. Anyone what's got an hour or two for a drink and a distraction. Anyone you can get ter help spread the word. You've seen th' critters, just tell them how much fun you've had with them."

As a final preparation, both to keep the area lit as the hours grow late, and to improve visibility across town, Sheridan leashes a few vitriol bellfronds to the perimeter of the common.

Belym, I think Sheridan means to put together some sort of celebration. With tensions this high, could you see if you can scrounge up a Keg of good Dwarven Stout? A good drink might ease the crowd's concerns about Sheridan's ... uniqueness.

Did I get the sense that Selwyn's blade was at all magical? Could Conwall use it to improve Catastrophe if he had the Blacksmith advanced move? Although that might be absolutely against Conwall's character.

Second question ... would Selwyn's armor fit me? I think a bit of impersonation might be in order at Eliara's circle.

I won't be taking Blacksmith. Catastrope is its own blade and mustn't be tampered with.
A celebration, huh? I believe we've earned a pleasant evening.