Dolgrin is taken aback by Anka's tact but he quickly recovers and nods at Anka's very dwarf like gift.
Well said Stoneminder. Dolgin says, and Anka might realize that this would be the first time the stuffy nobledwarf used her clan name. A worthy gift for our host.
We of the Dammerhall hope that the friendship made today will last a thousand years.
Kragg nods to Modnar as he explains he wants some time alone with the gnome. Just let me know when you wish me to enter. I will wait here till then.
Whlie he is waiting for Modnar to give his signal Kragg turns to the sniverblin figuring some answer was needed for the arrival of the Xan and the Skis'raal. These 2 companions of ours have journeyed with us and escorted us through the wilds that we may return safely to you. Please show them the same respect and honor that you would show us. We are currently working them to foster good will and hopefully even a trading partnership with them.
Momentarily taken back by Anka's boldness walking forward and removing her weapon, Ulfgar nods in acceptance and pride as he realizes her intent and most worthy of sacrifices. "Dammit girl excellent play"
As Kragg and Modnar make their way to the location of the prisoner, the younger dwarf responds, "I pray you are correct that we are dealing with an lone operative, but I worry that we may run into difficulty if it turns out that worship of Drugar has taken hold in other svirfneblin settlements. While I am inclined to assume that our comrades will succeed at their mission to befriend the Xan and Skis'raal, I would like to know for certain that we have not just exiled one who will turn other gnomes against us." He smiles faintly. "The drow are enemies enough."
Before entering the room holding His-Truth-Shines, Modnar suggests, "Would you give me a moment alone with our prisoner before you enter, Kragg?"
Modnar closes the door and turns to His-Truth-Shines. "Our High Priest wishes you to be released. I, however, am more inclined to summon a beast from the Realms Above, let it have its way with you, and then send you out into the Azathyr with no eyes."
The wizard draws his hammer, points it toward a corner of the room, and intones, "ជួយខ្ញុំឥន្ទ្រីនៃស្ថានបរមសុខ!" A shimmering eagle appears in the corner and screeches before Modnar dismisses it with a wave of his hand.
"You are fortunate, though, that respect for elders is the norm for my people. Tell me how widespread the worship of your patron is throughout the Azathyr, and I will not act on my baser impulses."
The celestial animal bursting into view causes the formerly sneering dark priest to scramble back in sudden concern as he must wonder if the dwarf conjurer is bluffing.
"Your people? Your people are sunkissers now! A few of you come down here? I asked those of the village, you're a small party indeed to reclaim Dammerhall! But your greatest god remains, and I serve him! And I am not alone! We are forced to hide in shadows for now, but more and more of us try to place our lord's glory openly and where I failed, they succeeded. Perhaps Fastervault rejects it now thanks to your clever tongued cleric of the drinking smith, but other peoples, other locations have some of their own who have embraced the true god. And word will spread, even if it takes a century. But where they are, who they are? I don't know them all, all but one, and I fear him far more than I fear you! "
Kragg nods to Modnar as he explains he wants some time alone with the gnome. Just let me know when you wish me to enter. I will wait here till then.
Whlie he is waiting for Modnar to give his signal Kragg turns to the sniverblin figuring some answer was needed for the arrival of the Xan and the Skis'raal. These 2 companions of ours have journeyed with us and escorted us through the wilds that we may return safely to you. Please show them the same respect and honor that you would show us. We are currently working them to foster good will and hopefully even a trading partnership with them.
Trade is a word the folks of this town know, and you can see those who are dealers in goods themselves light up a bit. Whispers of how you dwarves sure do have a knack for finding good things come up.
The Guests are treated as such! The Skis'raal seems dubious but polite, but the mycinoid hunter you freed actively seeks out conversation and is soon telling folks about the Xan.
Dolgrin is taken aback by Anka's tact but he quickly recovers and nods at Anka's very dwarf like gift.
Well said Stoneminder. Dolgin says, and Anka might realize that this would be the first time the stuffy nobledwarf used her clan name. A worthy gift for our host.
We of the Dammerhall hope that the friendship made today will last a thousand years.
"May the next generation of our people be here in a thousand years to see dwarven allies sitting in Dammerhall again," The White Spider rejoins, "Need you rest now?"
Thank you. Perhaps we can rest the night here, then resupply and be on our way tomorrow. Are there any scholars or historians amongst your people who would know something of ancient Dammerhall?
The celestial animal bursting into view causes the formerly sneering dark priest to scramble back in sudden concern as he must wonder if the dwarf conjurer is bluffing.
"Your people? Your people are sunkissers now! A few of you come down here? I asked those of the village, you're a small party indeed to reclaim Dammerhall! But your greatest god remains, and I serve him! And I am not alone! We are forced to hide in shadows for now, but more and more of us try to place our lord's glory openly and where I failed, they succeeded. Perhaps Fastervault rejects it now thanks to your clever tongued cleric of the drinking smith, but other peoples, other locations have some of their own who have embraced the true god. And word will spread, even if it takes a century. But where they are, who they are? I don't know them all, all but one, and I fear him far more than I fear you!"
Modnar matches the sneer His-Truth-Shines wore upon the wizard's entrance. "Perhaps our absence has let you forget how much we dwarves can accomplish with little. You may yet have a chance to be reminded."
The young dwarf turns and reaches for the door handle, but pauses before opening the door. Without a backwards glance at the svirfneblin, he adds, "It bears repeating that your 'true god' either failed or abandoned you when the hammer struck the anvil."
After leaving the room, Modnar nods to Kragg and says, "I have learned what I wished. While you speak with him, I should seek out my apprentices."
As the eyes light up among some at the talk of trade and since Modnar has not requested him yet Kragg elaborates more. The Skis'raal are hunters and while I do not know yet what facilities they possess for manufacturing hunting tools perhaps with the forge we can create items they desire. Likewise we know that they prefer game rather than harvested crops. Raising cattle would become a source of trade then for them.
On the flip side the Xan are harvesters and may need tools to help in their crops. Even if such things as these are not needed by them I am sure we can find other avenues to create trade. Exchange of knowledge and communication down here can be valuable as well. We can alert them to events that transpire near Fasturvalt while they inform us of the mushrrom jungle that they inhabit.
Any further speculation must be out on hold though until the council is convened as we bring ideas from the rest for future growth of Fasturvalt. Once we outline the idea to the council and it gets approved then more will be understood at that time.
When Modnar exits and grants him his chance to speak to the Durgar priest Kragg sighs and asks, What is your thoughts then? Do we let him go his way as I mentioned or should we change directions and proceed along another path? Perhaps as as compromise I brand him with a rune on his forehead. The rune will read 'Deceiver' so that any that come across him will understand that he is not to be trusted at face value. Should he repent of his ways then I will see to removing the mark.
Modnar replies, "I have no problems with letting him go, but I do worry that he may attempt to spread Drugar's twisted vision elsewhere. He spoke of cult-like groups that have taken root, but he claims he knows little in particular about them."
The wizard matches Kragg's sigh and adds, "His-Truth-Shines also mentioned one whom he feared more than he fears us. Perhaps he will be more open to your softer touch after my little conversation with him."
Modnar bows his head, excuses himself, and heads toward his place of tutelage.
Ulfgar bows in deference to the Skis'raal queen before they depart, inquiring from the guards where the pteranodon has pen quartered for their stay. Going to spend time with the creature so that it comes to know and recognize him. Having admired the bone spear, he also inquires as to whether a weaponsmith is available to speak with.
Ulfgar will be directed to a bonecarver, not as large as some Skis'raal, his many limbs move nimbly.
Resigned to the fact that the necessary actions must be taken to prevent His-Truth-Shines from deceiving others Kragg heads to his forge to gather the necessary materials. Finding a piece of metal to his liking he heats it up and creates a rune on the end.
Returning to the false gnome Kragg uses Zuth's power to heat the branding iron red hot. Having 4 gnomes hold the man down Kragg then brands the heretic as he asks Zuth to guide this fallen gnome. Hopefully you see the truth and realize the mistakes you have made. Think well on this day as I hope you come to realize that it is the first day of your new life.
Kragg then lets the gnome go with the aforementioned supplies to see him off. Once that is done then he looks for Modnar to start the council and relate the news as to what has happened and what must be done to strengthen and build Fasturvalt.
Joining the bone carver Ulfgar spends time with him learning the process for working with the bone to create the masterful piece that the spear was. Understanding the process to create a bow from the bone would be a long a tedious process, one not well reproduced during the travel that they would be enduring learning the lay of the land, Ulfgar inquires to the commissioning of a bow such as he would like.
"Bone Master Tharbi, watching you has proven educating indeed, I would have never thought that using the steam from spring water; would create the flexibility in the bone to bend it and laminate it to your will and then as it dried back out it would obtain the inherent strength of a much stronger material. You are a true artist and master of your craft. I would like to commission you to create a bow to my specifications. We will be leaving to return to Fasturvault before long; but my position as warden will bring me through here again, and I would pick it up at that time
Ulfgar then sketches what he is looking for for the craftsman
Returning to the false gnome Kragg uses Zuth's power to heat the branding iron red hot. Having 4 gnomes hold the man down Kragg then brands the heretic as he asks Zuth to guide this fallen gnome. Hopefully you see the truth and realize the mistakes you have made. Think well on this day as I hope you come to realize that it is the first day of your new life.
The branded gnome priest mutters a curse, "You're doomed anyway" but goes, what other choice has he?
Kragg then lets the gnome go with the aforementioned supplies to see him off. Once that is done then he looks for Modnar to start the council and relate the news as to what has happened and what must be done to strengthen and build Fasturvalt.
The townsfolk gather as you ready your plans...
"Bone Master Tharbi, watching you has proven educating indeed, I would have never thought that using the steam from spring water; would create the flexibility in the bone to bend it and laminate it to your will and then as it dried back out it would obtain the inherent strength of a much stronger material. You are a true artist and master of your craft. I would like to commission you to create a bow to my specifications. We will be leaving to return to Fasturvault before long; but my position as warden will bring me through here again, and I would pick it up at that time
Thrabi turns out to be a individual of very few words, save when his craft is the subject "The craft has been our way since the time of many tribes.... Bone is the metal and wood of life."[/B]
The weapons are made, by the time they are, it is time to head out....
Travel back, with guides to aid you speeds things up, but a week into the journey, Anka notices something in the distance....
A ring of great and towering red mushrooms, tall as oaks, as red as blood, and oddly familiar...
With the task of His-Truth-Shines taken care of Kragg settles down as the council is brought together to discuss the plans that were made by the dwarves and have them implemented for future expansion and growth. He also explains who the creatures are behind him and why they are here. We have and are continuing to have positive relations with the denizens of the mushroom forest. These 2 are representatives that may represent allies and trade partners. We are hoping to foster such relations to strengthen ourselves both economically and with information and possible militarily. To this end myself and the rest of the company have cleared out the entrance to the Mushroom Forest in the hopes of Fastervalt claiming that area and placing an outpost there. It would be an excellent staging point for future forays into the forest. Supplies could be stored there and runners as well for the quick relay of information to Fastervalt. What say you to this plan of expansion?
diplomacy if needed
When Kragg finds Modnar, the wizard's face resembles that of an exasperated parent. He grumbles, "Frelin-Sits-in-Back has apparently been practicing his mage hand by scaring children with rattling crockery. When I find him . . ." Modnar's voice trails off as he remembers the upcoming council. "My apologies, Kragg. Shall we?"
At the council, Modnar defers to the elder dwarf for the most part. He adds, "Our sojourn also discovered signs of further drow machinations. The elves were fomenting strife between our guests' peoples. As such, I concur with our High Priest that we should do what we can to open diplomatic channels and keep a watchful eye on the Fungal Jungle."
Hannarr runs his fingers over his new bow gleefully.
As they travel back, he makes sure they take time to visit, or, at least get a message to Xan informing them of the cease-fire with the Skis'Raal
Thanking the Bone Master for the chance to work with him and train under him for this brief time, Ulfgar presents the bow to Hannaar as they prepare to leave out once more. "Beautiful works are they not"
Joining the guides at the front as they move through the fungal jungle back to Fasturvault; Ulfgar is both impressed and taken back by the strange black and red mushrooms ahead.
The council listens, and Knivy says, "Well, if you vouch for em, then you vouch for em. Hope they realize a lot of the town will be waiting for a mess up."
Miatha-always-a-song-follows-smiles, "Well, we may need to expand the inn and then some if trade picks up, but I like new people so that's good news for me."
Sheriff Harvald nods, "We should be able to extend a patrol or two to help expansion and trade." He glannces to the guest, "But I do worry about fights between visitors."
Tammar Even-the-Stones-Listen considers, "Well, it would be nice to see our stone work be appreciated and some trade kick in. I am sure the stone cutters will be supportive."
Kragg listens as the talk develops into economic matters and developmental concerns. This was exactly what he had hoped for. The deep gnomes were looking at growth and expansion even if Knivy was reticent about it. Knivy, what you say may have merit. While we wish to bring other races and people in for trade and growth it would be foolish if we do not protect ourselves as well from treachery and deceit. While we must treat them with the respect that is due them we must also teach them of our ways and laws here. That way they will understand what is expected of them while here yet as strangers we must be ready to forgive small slights.
Miatha, indeed that is the hope that we bring. Economic growth for all of us. Think of what might happen should Fasturvalt be the center of diplomatic ties for all involved. The numbers that would travel here would mean we would need multiple inns and eating establishments. That need would then mean more work and demand for the stone cutters and mushroom cutters. All would profit economically while increasing our diplomatic overtures.
Harvald, in read patrols sounds like an excellent start. Not only would they be able to go to the fort and back to provide information and supplies but creating a safe passage for any of the embassies from the Mushroom Forest would be seen as a sign of respect. The week long travel would also mean that runners could go ahead to get ready for whomever is visiting and a solution could arise to prevent differing embassies to be odds with each other.
Tammar, I thank you for your words of support. I am glad to hear that the stone cutters are in favor of this endeavor. I wee them as the primary movers involved with trade in the beginning.
Looking at the group as a whole Kragg finishes it off with a flourish. If you are with us in this endeavor then I propose to send a group to the edge of the mushroom forest to begin work on the outpost immediately. We have a long way to go till we reach our dream and no time like the present to start. All in favor say aye!
Modnar nods his head in assent. "Aye!"
After the voting on Kragg's motion concludes, Modnar asks, "With that matter settled, have any other matters emerged since our departure into the fungal jungle?"
Kragg listens as the talk develops into economic matters and developmental concerns. This was exactly what he had hoped for. The deep gnomes were looking at growth and expansion even if Knivy was reticent about it. Knivy, what you say may have merit. While we wish to bring other races and people in for trade and growth it would be foolish if we do not protect ourselves as well from treachery and deceit. While we must treat them with the respect that is due them we must also teach them of our ways and laws here. That way they will understand what is expected of them while here yet as strangers we must be ready to forgive small slights.
Ivy smirks at that, "Huh. ME, a promoter of law and order... now that's funny. I'll keep an eye on folks from the shadows for you all. I'm good at it."
The other chortle a bit at Ivy's realization she's on the side of authority for once, and give their own nods at the good cleric's affirmations.
Looking at the group as a whole Kragg finishes it off with a flourish. If you are with us in this endeavor then I propose to send a group to the edge of the mushroom forest to begin work on the outpost immediately. We have a long way to go till we reach our dream and no time like the present to start. All in favor say aye!
Ayes abound, though gentle Miatha reminds, "With so many of the other dwarves away still, there is only so much we can and should decide on. Let's start on this, but be prepared if they bring news of an even greater priority. We may have to change gears."
Assuming the cleric and wizard concede the point, she adds her aye as well.
After the voting on Kragg's motion concludes, Modnar asks, "With that matter settled, have any other matters emerged since our departure into the fungal jungle?"
Harvald answers, "I think the religious matters you just saw were the biggest o the troubles. Now that's been set aright, we're prospering ok.
Miatha says gently, "You two have been teaching folks your faith and magic, or at least a few what have the talent. Some young ones seem to find dwarven culture more interesting than our own, and alarming their parents by embracing 'dwarvenishness' a bit too strongly. I think its harmless myself, but it might bear watching."
The tale of how Anka retrieved her axe will be one for the ages...
but as they move on, the diplomatic party has much on its mind. With new masterwork bone crafted gear in hand, more than one of the party has a new weapon to practice with.
Ulfgar takes the lead scouting.... but does not get too far ahead entirely. Travel is going briskly, and your guides have been of assistance. Fastervault awaits you all, and you can only hope that seeds of peace you've helped sow between two races will take root and flourish...
Hannarr is eager to get back to Fastervault and set into motion the next phase of their expansion.
Ulfgar gladly takes the lead with the help of any of the others for the return trip, keeping their eyes open for any trouble that might be around the bend.
Miatha says gently, "You two have been teaching folks your faith and magic, or at least a few what have the talent. Some young ones seem to find dwarven culture more interesting than our own, and alarming their parents by embracing 'dwarvenishness' a bit too strongly. I think its harmless myself, but it might bear watching."
Modnar's eyes widen slightly as Miatha speaks, and he looks down to the table before responding. "That is an unforeseen and -- I assure you -- unintended development of our time here. During the dwarven . . . sojourn to the surface, we have seen enough of our own culture erode in the weathering of time. I would not presume to cause such among another people, and I will do what I can to reinforce the significance of Fasturvalt itself in my future lessons."
The wizard looks down to the table again. Even parted by layers of stone, I still want to throttle you, Krarn . . .
"If you all will excuse me, I have an apprentice to find -- and scold."
Kragg listens tot eh input of the leaders gathered around the table. They all have suggestions and valid input that needs to be heard. Some of it is ironic such as Ivy while others are more serious such as Miatha. As Modnar tries to assure the lady of the dwarves good intentions Kragg nods in agreement supporting his kin. We have been here only a short period of time and we do not wish to have our views and ways pressed upon you so. Perhaps in the near future we can set of a place for the heritage of Fasturvalt to keep everyone focused on where we are truly grounded. Of course as you say this may be put aside as with all of our plans depending on what the others may bring back from their expedition.
Mostly retracing your steps on the Xan side of the lack, progress has been good, good enough to even do a bit of exploring in those few miles that you missed.
Ulfgar stumbles onto something in that area that surprises him. He knows them from the surface, he didn't know they would be down here.
Kobold tracks. Probably 'A' kobold, to be fair.
And, as he peeks near the shore, he sees a straw sticking out of the gray water, a hollow reed.
Hannarr sees it as well
Nodding to Hannaar he points at the tracks and mouths 'kobold' walking towards the water he calls out
"Ok, Hannaar hvad tror du? Vi venter på ham til at komme ud, eller bare fodre ham til Pteranodon. Jeg tror han får sultne og vi har ikke forsøgt fiskeri med ham endnu .... 10 .... 9 .... 8 .... 7 ...."
Ulgar waits patiently with bow drawn 10' or so from the waters edge....
Once the council has brokenup Kragg will go about looking for his acolytes and seeing what prgress they have mad eont he smithy. He checks the orders that they have gotten and once satisfied that all things are accounted for begins to workon the orders and instructing his apprentices in the ways of the forge and Zuth at the same time.
Hannarr, who does not speak any draconic, levels his new bow at the offending reed and plays along as best he can, trying to sound feirce. Um, yes, quite. The pteranodon.. and, oh now we're counting! 6...5...4..."
The Reed slowly wavers, as if it might launch backwards any moment. Then, finally, it seems to decide , and a kobold rises from the shallows bit by bit. You've all seen kobolds, of course, Dwarven opinion on them varies but many would classify them as dangerous pests with delusions of dragonhood.
Said kobold comes out with one fish lodged in his bedraggled clothing. Paler than most kobolds, he is a very pale gray except for the scales along his back and the top of his scalp which are almost jet black.
He holds his clawed hands up in the almost universal gesture of surrender.
Keeping the bow up but letting off a bit on the draw, Ulfgar responds ...
"Vi er ikke her for at såre dem, der ikke har til hensigt skade os, hvad laver du hernede ved dig selv?"
We're not here to hurt those who do not intend us harm, what are you doing down here by yourself?
Translating for the others as he goes, and he really has no need/desire to kill the creature if he is not a danger to the group.
Diamondheart, what is the thing saying? Dolgrin asks.
"I flee," The kobold surprises you by speaking rough dwarvish as he hears Dolgrin speak in it "Flee the elves of shadow, the snake favored."
Your kind rarely travel alone. Where are your fellows? Hannarr inquires, bow still levelled at the craven creature.
The kobold shivers, "Dark Elves... they slaves for dark elves."
"Seems like the Drow have made friends of everyone down here. How many more of your clan are slaves to the Drow?"
Luwida and Greip had things well in hand at the forge and Kragg had little to worry about with the orders. While the recent foray did not bring about much in the way of riches to expand the forge to a full blacksmith Kragg was patient. It would come in time and there was plenty of work to do anyways. As the motion for the outpost was approved by the council Kragg showed Luwida and Greip how to create the tools needed to create metal bands to reinforce the doors on the outpost. It was not the same level as making weapons or armor but the priniciples of metal working would still give them a head start and this was something within their abilities. Also making the long bands the appropriate length and bending them to the desired shape would require both of them to work in unison. Teamwork and trust building would be just as important as for them to be followers of Zuth they will need to lean on each other for strength in tough times as well.
What is your name Kobold? Dolgrin asks, his manners returning
To his Dwarven compatriots I think we can put our weapons away, a lone kobold, however mighty, is not much of a threat to the Heirs of Dammerhall. Dolgrin says with a grin
Fastervault
Modnar's words seem to reassure Miatha, and he heads off looking for an apprentice to strangle.
"But Master Goldrune!" Frelin-Sits-in-Back tried to explain, "you said we should find creative ways to hone our skills! And they're not hurt.... by the beard of my fathers, they might even behave better. Tiski and Landi are real brats, always stealing pies out of windows."
The fact that he just used 'By the beard of my fathers' a dwarven expression, in his defense certainly shows that dwarven culture is getting popular with the young.
.........
For Kragg, the council went well, though obviously there is only so much that can be made offcial with so many of them away. Not only did Luwida and Greip have things well in hand, they had put new touches around the forge, using beer steins and flasks as decorations dedicated to Zuth. Hardly smith work, but a nice homage.
As always, they were full of curiousity about their god, "Zuth learned a hard lesson in his imprissonment," Luwida said stating what she knew to be obvious to get to a deeper point, "but is there a morale to learn from your follies and become stronger for it? Or is it more about humility?"
Greip scratched his chin as he worked on a new piece, the mix of smithing and theology coming more easily to them now, "Can't it be both?"
..........................
The Diplomatic Group
"Seems like the Drow have made friends of everyone down here. How many more of your clan are slaves to the Drow?"
"Don't know. Maybe thousands, but at where me run from? Were near hundred, probably mostly dead. Only a two dozen will be spared," The Kobold shivers at something, " Sacrifice ritual. Bone head snake god gets every time we get too many."
What is your name Kobold? Dolgrin asks, his manners returning
"Masters call me Runt. Not allowed Kobold name. Don't know what Kobold name would sound like. Many gen-er-rations slave" Runt explains. "Not live long, like dwarves."
To his Dwarven compatriots I think we can put our weapons away, a lone kobold, however mighty, is not much of a threat to the Heirs of Dammerhall. Dolgrin says with a grin
Runt seems to overheard, and at the word Dammerhall, he recites a poem
"Six Bridges had DammerhallAnd True Mithril abounded
Until the day came when panic horns sounded
Three days burned the city
awash in black fire
Scattered and broken we dwarves
Running and fleeing we dwarves
into the human mire.
We will return to ashes
we will reclaim it one day
we will take back what is ours
or so our fathers say.
Where is the way, o fathers?
We've found only
the crack of whip
the lash's sting
and leering purple faces.
So please, oh spirit of our fathers
show us where our place is."
I think we can put our weapons away, a lone kobold, however mighty, is not much of a threat to the Heirs of Dammerhall.
Starting momentarily at Dolgrin's comment, Ulfgar looks down with a somewhat sheepish look on his face. He'd forgotten his bow was still in hand once he'd released the draw.
"If they have thousands of kobolds alone, gnomes and dwarves and skis'raal. The Drow will be a formidable enemy down here. Runt are there any free kobolds down here that you are aware of?"
"Me" Runt says, holding up one finger.
The Kobold knows a Dwarven song. Tell me Runt, where did you learn that song? Dolgrin asks