ADM Tom Sunday May 15th, 2016 10:04:35 PM Alizar asks Lucas "are we there yet?", to which Lucas replies: "We're just about half way there. In fact, if we can make up for some lost time on the road, there's an inn we can stay at, instead of bivouacing."
Var rounds up the Bandits' horses, and has them fall into line with the rest of the trade caravan, handing the reigns of one of them off to Wil.
Dusan keeps himself busy by attempting to identify the potions while riding in the back of a cart. Four of them are definitely Potions of Cure Moderate Wounds; the other two he's less sure of.
The rest of the day goes by quietly as the caravan rolls along the dusty road. As the evening approaches, Lukas directs the Caravan off the main road to a less-worn trail that leads up to a modest-looking house built into the side of the hill surrounded by a makeshift barricade. Above the gate leading into the compound is a sign that reads "Goblins Rest", with "Merchants Welkome!" painted beneath that.
The gate is closed and barred, however, which apparently comes as a surprise to Lukas who begins speaking quietly and hurriedly to the other merchants. After a moment, a figure appears on a platform over the gate.
A goblin warrior in a rusted breastplate, with a large (well, large for a Goblin) two-handed sword strapped to her back shouts down the caravan "The Goblin's Rest is for Merchants and peaceful travelers ONLY! Bandits and Brigands are NOT WELCOME HERE! So turn around an BE ON YOUR WAY!"
Lukas, and the rest of the merchants, all look toward the party expectantly.
Var (Tom I.) AC:17/T:13/FF:14/CMD:20 HP:36/37 Monday May 16th, 2016 11:14:38 AM
Var looks confusedly back at the merchants, and then up to the Goblin. "Wait..." He says, "Does she mean us?"
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP:23/23; AC:21; Touch 13; ethereal touch: 15; FF 20] - CMD 24 d20+2=21 ; Monday May 16th, 2016 12:35:54 PM
"My good goblin, what makes you think that we are bandits or brigands?" Toston asks, "We actually just had a run-in with some bandits and now we were looking forward to resting at an actual inn instead of camping for once. We are a merchant caravan and escort."
Toston holds up his WLA badge, "Would a bandit be a member of the Woldian League of Adventurers?"
(Diplomacy: 21)
Lornak ( Frank S.) HP:32/32 AC: 16(T:13/FF:10) CMD:18 d20+7=11 ; Monday May 16th, 2016 12:47:24 PM
Lornak slowly steps out and replies to Var. "I believe this fine gentleman does indeed believe us to be brigands." He turns to address the Goblin. "I assure you kind sir that is the farthest from the truth." He makes a slow open palmed hand gesture towards their clients.
"Our caravan was assaulted on the road earlier. We managed to fight them off but are in need of respite. Is that something we will be able find here in this fine establishment?" (Diplomacy d20=11)
Lornak ( Frank S.) HP:32/32 AC: 16(T:13/FF:10) CMD:18 Monday May 16th, 2016 12:48:12 PM
(OOC, Haha, Hugh beat me to it!)
Alizar HP: 23/23 AC: 16(T:12/FF:14) CMD:14 d20+8=25 ; Monday May 16th, 2016 5:10:30 PM
Alizar was a bit taken aback by the goblins accusations, but it all made sense. If the bandits had been working these roads for some time, then the locals were bound to be a bit... skiddish. Alizar stepped forward and pointed at his companions.
"Yea... what they said..." (Diplomacy 25)
Wilford Grimly (HP:27/27; AC: 18; Touch: 12; Flat: 16; CMD: 14) Monday May 16th, 2016 5:54:47 PM
"We could of also shot first and aimed later," Wil comments from the horse. "They acted like bandits to me but..." Wil swallows hard at the thought that the men could of been innocent.
Asteria Amarante (Genevieve) [HP: 35/35; AC: 18; Touch: 12; FF: 20; CMD: 18] d20+6=24 ; Monday May 16th, 2016 6:16:07 PM
Asteria mumbles under her breath. "I wouldn't mind camping again if this is how we are treated..." Then, she goes to the back of the group before her barbarish charms scare the goblin. While back there, she looks for any threats to the group.
(Perception: 24)
Hmerrin(HP 41/43 AC18/14t/16ff, CMD 20) d20+2=5 ; Monday May 16th, 2016 6:39:16 PM
Hmerrin raises an eyebrow at the goblin guard, but says nothing. The lad just stands where he is, wondering how long it took the goblin to mess up her armor that bad.
[Perception - 5]
Dušan (Erik) [HP:31/31; AC:13; Touch: 13; FF:10; CMD:15 Monday May 16th, 2016 11:09:33 PM
Dušan gets a bit nervous. Then he get's a bit suspicious. He casts Detect Magic liking for any out of place magical auras.
ADM Tom Tuesday May 17th, 2016 8:49:45 AM Asteria watches for threats, but other than the angry goblin warrior, there isn't anything else around.
Dusan casts about looking for magical auras, but doesn't detect anything.
The goblin its taken aback by Lornak's statement. "Sir? SIR!? Does Nmogaz sound like a guy's name to you?" She shouts. Grabbing a rope and rappelling down to the ground she stalks over to the party. First she squints at Toston's WLA pin and says "How do I know you didn't just take that off some poor dead sap, eh?"
She seems ready to go off into another round of shouting, but diplomatic efforts from Toston and Alizar seem to calm her down. "I guess bandits wouldn't travel in such large numbers..." She mutters "Follow me. But don't try ANYTHING!" She unlocks the gate and leads the caravan into the compound.
The merchants lead the horses to small barn off to one side of the main building to get them fed, watered and bedded down for the evening. The front door of the Inn opens and two more goblins step out. The male is possibly the most robust looking Goblin you've all ever seen. Bowlegged and potbellied with ample jowels; the female is his exact opposite in almost every way, exceedingly tall (for a goblin), rail-thin with sharp, severe features.
The man says "Nmogaz, what's going on? We heard shouting and- oh! OH!" His beady eyes light up when he sees the group. "Honey, oh! Guests!" He says, grabbing the arm of the woman next to him.
"Yes, I can see, dear. Hello, lovelies! Welcome to the Goblin's Rest, I hope our guard-captain didn't give you *too* much trouble, she takes her job very seriously." She says with a crooked-toothed grin. Nmogaz looks somewhat embarrassed by that, and excuses herself to assist the merchants with their horses.
"Oh! OH! But where are our manners?" the man says, his jowels quivering with excitement, "I am Geb Belchmuck and this lovely vision is my wife, Sabnot." Geb says.
Sabnot makes a short and stiff curtsy and says "We are the owners and operators of the Goblin's Rest, and we hope to make your stay a pleasant and memorable one."
"Oh! But we should have a feast! I'll go tell Derx to get started! Son, Come take their bags." Geb says excitedly, and waddles inside. A third goblin shuffles out of the house after Geb leaves, this one with a nose that would look big on Minotaur.
"This is our son, Son Belchmuck, our maitre d', he'll take your bags and show you to your rooms." Sabnot says. Son nods and smiles absently. "Now then, is there anything that you all will be needing before dinner?" she asks.
Wilford Grimly (HP:27/27; AC: 18; Touch: 12; Flat: 16; CMD: 14) d20+6=19 ; d20+8=21 ; d20+8=9 ; Tuesday May 17th, 2016 9:38:30 AM
(Sense Motive: 19) Wil is a bit suspicious. Goblins have a vicious past in his family. Cousins, brothers and a few others he knew had mysteriously disappeared outside of Dirt City over the years. The Royal Family, which the Darts called the upper echelon, always blamed the goblins for the demise of the others.
Wil recoils a bit when he finds the Inn is filled with goblins. He refuses to give up his bags but tries to be civil. "Mr. and Mrs. Belchmuck. I respectfully decline the assistance. I prefer to carry my own burden." (Bluff: 21) He all but gives up on trying to put forth a kind front. "Too much history," he thinks. (Diplomacy:9)
Lornak ( Frank S.) HP:32/32 AC: 16(T:13/FF:10) CMD:18 d20+8=13 ; Tuesday May 17th, 2016 11:39:39 AM
"You wear your armor rather proudly." Lornak says to guard. "I heartily apologize."
Lornak takes time to get a lay of the land, how many buildings there are, whether or not there are storehouses, does this inn see a lot of traffic or not? Are there any other patrons currently in the inn? Call it a precaution if any mayhem may ensue. (Perception d20=13)
Dušan (Erik) [HP:31/31; AC:13; Touch: 13; FF:10; CMD:15 d100=57 ; Tuesday May 17th, 2016 11:50:37 AM
"Thanks," Dušan replies, "but I just have the one bag. You may see if the others need more help." Dušan puts a hefts his bag over his arm and places a uniting hand on Wil's shoulder. With a disarming smile he casts Like Calls to Like adding +8 insight bonus to Diplomacy, Sense Motive, Intimidation and Bluff checks to aberant creatures, outcasts, and recluses.
(Are goblins aberant? If not I assume they're outcasts or reclusses. And if completely off this can be a learning experience for me as well as my character.)
Alizar HP: 23/23 AC: 16(T:12/FF:14) CMD:14 d20+8=20 ; Tuesday May 17th, 2016 6:01:28 PM
'Gobins' Alizar thought to himself. Well, it was better than bandits for the time being. He nodded to the proprietors, "Thank you for your kind welcome. It is nice to be out of the elements, and as I am sure you can imagine, much safer indoors then out. I hope our presence will not cause undue burden." (Diplomacy - 20)
As the younger Goblin approached, Alizar followed his companions lead. "Don't trouble yourself sir. Don't own what you can't carry, is what I always say. Lead, and I will follow to our rooms."
Hmerrin(HP 41/43 AC18/14t/16ff, CMD 20) Tuesday May 17th, 2016 8:32:09 PM
Hmerrin jerks a thumb at Alizar. "What he said," he tells Master Belchmuck. "I'm good."
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP:23/23; AC:21; Touch 13; ethereal touch: 15; FF 20] - CMD 24 Tuesday May 17th, 2016 8:49:27 PM
Toston also shoulders his own burden. What little he carries is still a light load for the gnome.
"I'll can carry my own bag but Belchmuck tell me, I don't suppose a bath could be had before dinner?" Toston asks
He flips the maitr d a silver piece as a tip.
Var (Tom I) Tuesday May 17th, 2016 9:24:46 PM
Var shrugs at the rest of the group and un-slings his backpack and drops it at the young Goblin's feet. "Knock yourself out, kid." he says as he rolls his shoulders.
Asteria Amarante (Genevieve) [HP: 35/35; AC: 18; Touch: 12; FF: 20; CMD: 18] Tuesday May 17th, 2016 10:10:32 PM
Asteria frowns at the young Goblin, and declines giving what she carries. "I'd like to keep what I have, if you don't mind. Makes me feel more safe." She then tries to show a smile, hoping that the kid doesn't feel too bad.
ADM Tom Wednesday May 18th, 2016 10:27:13 AM Lornak orients himself to the layout of the compound, such as it is. The Inn is a simple two-story structure, with heavy construction that is starting to show it's age. The stables are off to one side of the main building, and a small wisp of smoke can be seen coming out from behind the Inn, where the kitchen is likely located. The only other building you can see is a small guard shack build next to the gate. Functional and defensible, but not luxurious by any means.
Wil doesn't sense any immediate betrayal from the Goblins, in fact they *seem* to be sincerer.
Dusan casts a spell on [Wil (Goblins are neither Aberrant or Outsiders, they're classified as Humanoid(Goblinoid) but I'll allow it, as you're about to see) and Wil is suddenly flooded with overwhelming empathy. Out here in the middle of a hostile land, despised by their own kind and by civilized societies, the goblin's behavior suddenly makes sense to Wil. Paranoia from the guard, as just about everything in Western Izen no doubt is a threat to them; and an eagerness to appease the traveling merchants.
Alizar pours on the charm for Mrs. Belchmuck, and Toston asks her about baths. "Yes, of course. I'll have Son bring up some hot water for you, you'll find a washtub in each of your rooms. If there is nothing else, I'll go help our head chef prepare this evening's meal." she excuses herself and leaves you in the company of Son Belchmuck.
Son eyes grow as big as dinner plates when Toston flips him a silver piece, much like a child might react upon seeing a carnival for the first time. "Carry Bags?" he asks, only to be refused by everyone in the group, until Var hands him his pack. The backpack is nearly as big as he is, and he struggles with it for a full minute before Var sighs and picks the pack back up and carries it himself. Crestfallen, Son says "Show to rooms..." and leads you all upstairs.
The rooms are... Functional. The beds are undersized for most of you, and the promised washtubs are also sized for the smaller races. But still, while it may not be as comfortable as the Marsh House, it's a warm and dry bed after a long day on the road. After he delivers the hot water (a good portion of which he split on the stairs), Son reports "Dinner soon. Hour. Will ring bell." and then scurries off.
You all have an hour before dinner to spend as you see fit, what do you do?
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP:23/23; AC:21; Touch 13; ethereal touch: 15; FF 20] - CMD 24 Wednesday May 18th, 2016 1:55:54 PM
Toston closes the door to his room, disrobes and hops into the bath. He gives himself a thorough scrubbing and then changes back into his lightweight monk's outfit for dinner.
He likes the fact that being a small humanoid the room is of an appropriate size so he lays on the bed for a moment before rejoining his friends.
"So does everyone like the accommodations?" Toston asks
Dušan (Erik) [HP:31/31; AC:13; Touch: 13; FF:10; CMD:15 Wednesday May 18th, 2016 3:06:26 PM
Dušan looks at the small room and casts Reduce Person on himself. Unfortunately he would not be able to maintain the spell throughout the night, but at least he could get a proper soak in. He ponders the remaining two potions he couldn't identify. As the water grows cool he gets out and casts Prestidigitation on his traveling clothes before putting them back on. He grabs the potions and returns to the common room looking relatively like new.
"So, four of the six potions are Cure Moderate wounds if anyone wants one. I couldn't figure out these two if anyone want to take a try at them."
Lornak ( Frank S.) HP:32/32 AC: 16(T:13/FF:10) CMD:18 d20+8=23 ; Wednesday May 18th, 2016 5:47:54 PM
Lornak shuffles his pack, also a light load, to his accommodations. If the floor of the room is stone he will likely sleep on it because he prefers its cold and dampness. He doesn't take advantage of the opportunity to fully cleanse because is simply to tall for it to be refreshing. He only uses the hot water to wash his face and hands.
He heeds Dusan's call to identify the final two potions.
"I'll take a look at those. If you aren't detecting magic from them, perhaps they are of a more mundane variety." (Perception d20=23) He lifts them up to the light and continues; "I'd be happy to pocket one of those healing potions if no one objects."
After inspecting the potions he takes an evening stroll around the grounds simply to enjoy the peace and quiet of the country air.
Hmerrin(HP 41/43 AC18/14t/16ff, CMD 20) Wednesday May 18th, 2016 8:53:02 PM
Hmerrin avails himself of the small tubs, basically standing in one and cleaning himself off.
Giving the beds a critical look, he comments, "With a couple one by fours, I could probably do something with that." The lad spends his remaining time prior to dinner trying to scrounge up some lumber.
Alizar HP: 23/23 AC: 16(T:12/FF:14) CMD:14 Wednesday May 18th, 2016 9:32:53 PM
Alizar thanks the young Goblin and flashes him a smile before flicking him a silver. He has noticed how excited the young goblin seemed at Toston's tip earlier. Sometimes it is easy to forget that even the gestures we might consider small can be massive in the perception of others.
After the youngling left, Alizar dropped his pack on the floor near his bad and sat for a moment, taking a few deep breaths. The quiet of the room was quite the change from the business of the day. It made him long for the small study he kept in the back of his clinic. Even in the bustle of Dirt City, the solitude it granted him was a boon to his spirit. With a sigh, he arose and changed into his fine black suit, checked his appearance in the mirror for disarray, and satisfied with the order of things, left his room to join the other downstairs.
Var (Tom I) Wednesday May 18th, 2016 9:33:34 PM
Var drops his gear in his room, peels his armor off himself, and gives his face a quick wash. donning his nicer traveling clothes, he heads back downstairs and finds a spot on the front porch to sit and enjoy the evening.
He gives a lazy wave to Lornak and the ranger walks by.
Wilford Grimly (HP:27/27; AC: 18; Touch: 12; Flat: 16; CMD: 14) Wednesday May 18th, 2016 9:47:43 PM
Wil's attitude toward the Goblin's soften. He thanks the InnKeepers and gives up his bag. The small tub was a bit annoying but not as annoying as Cicero who droned on and on. He joins the others at the dinner table later..
Asteria Amarante (Genevieve) [HP: 35/35; AC: 18; Touch: 12; FF: 20; CMD: 18] Wednesday May 18th, 2016 10:03:26 PM
Asteria flashes a smile to the small one, before beginning to wait her turn for the bathroom. Once in, she doesn't take long, as she only washes her arms. She personally doesn't mind the grime, but does it as a courtesy for the others. Then, she goes to one of the undersized beds and tries to get some rest. She mostly just lies there before quietly starting up a conversation with whoever is near. "You know, this reminds me of my first day with you guys. How long ago was that? A week? Maybe more?"
ADM Tom Thursday May 19th, 2016 9:57:55 AM
After about an hour, of unwinding, you all hear the dinner bell ring. Converging into the main room of the Inn on the first floor, Lukas and the other merchants from the caravan join you as well. Stools have been placed around a long, low table, with simple place settings for everyone.
Geb excitedly welcomes you all. "Oh, but we have such a wonderful feast planned for tonight! Our head chef, Derx, oh he's simply a masterful cook, some of the finest cuisine I've tasted." He adds with a knowing smile and a pat of his belly, "And I know a thing or two about fine foods." As the group settles in, Nmogaz enters as well, having traded her rusted breastplate and great-sword for a leather jerkin and a single broad dagger. She nods curtly to the group before taking a seat next to the Belchmucks.
"Can we get anyone something to drink?" Sabnot asks, "I'm afraid we don't have any wine, but Derx does brew a lovely cider." Son will bring cider out to whomever requests it, to the rest he simply brings water.
"So tell us, what brings you all the way out to our lovely establishment?" Geb asks. "Sadly we don't get very much traffic passing along the trade roads, many of the traveling merchants turn up their noses at us."
(feel free to chat and ask your hosts questions, dinner will be served in Friday's post)
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP:23/23; AC:21; Touch 13; ethereal touch: 15; FF 20] - CMD 24 Thursday May 19th, 2016 1:40:15 PM
"We are a trade delegation on our way from Dirt City to Acid City." Toston says.
"It's rather exciting. Epria over there sells linens and says she represents the assassins guild. I grew up in a family of traveling merchants so this trip brings back old times."
"I'll try some of the cider if you'd please" Toston says.
Dušan (Erik) [HP:31/31; AC:13; Touch: 13; FF:10; CMD:15 d20+7=15 ; Thursday May 19th, 2016 3:40:00 PM
"You should be very proud of your fine establishment here." Dušan is just happy to be sleeping with a roof over his head, "In my many travels to and, um... around Dirt City, never have I seen as fine an Inn outside the city walls."
This wasn't exactly untrue, but he's hoping to sound worldlier than he feels. (Bluff d20+7= 15, feel free to call his bluff with you're PCs.)
Dušan (Erik) [HP:31/31; AC:13; Touch: 13; FF:10; CMD:15 Thursday May 19th, 2016 3:41:11 PM
Dušan also requests the cider.
Wilford Grimly (HP:27/27; AC: 18; Touch: 12; Flat: 16; CMD: 14) d20+7=16 ; d20+7=26 ; Thursday May 19th, 2016 3:49:57 PM
"Oh, Wow. This is a nice spread. I haven't had this much food since we dined on that Scorpion weeks ago." (Diplomacy: 16) "So it must be rough being so far out of town. Nice to have a place to bunk for the night. I hate to ask if someone already told us but where are we headed anyways?" He asks the others. To the people in the Caravan, "Why the concern over the caravan? Is it just protection over bandits or is there something going on?" (Perception: 26 - To discover anything interesting.)
Hmerrin(HP 41/43 AC18/14t/16ff, CMD 20) Thursday May 19th, 2016 7:09:46 PM
Unable to find lumber, Hmerrin heads back to the dining room, and takes a seat with the others.
"I'd love some cider," he replies to his goblin host.
After a few moments of drinking, he belches loudly, sets his elbows on the table, and leans closer to Geb. "Say, you got any spare pieces of lumber around? I'm a carpenter by training, an' I got an idea for an adjustable bed frame that I wanted to try out here, if I could."
Alizar HP: 23/23 AC: 16(T:12/FF:14) CMD:14 Thursday May 19th, 2016 8:00:14 PM
Alizar sat down and graciously accepted his pint of Cider.
Addressing his hosts, "So tell us a little more about your establishment here. How long have you been in business for? This is our first journey down this particular path. What is your impression of the the road going forward from here?"
Lornak ( Frank S.) HP:32/32 AC: 16(T:13/FF:10) CMD:18 Thursday May 19th, 2016 8:54:30 PM
Lornak returns to the inn from his refreshing walk around the grounds. As he passes Var about to join the dinner inside he nods.
"I'm curious as to why your establishment does not get frequented more often?" Lornak asks the host. "The location seems pleasant and there seems a fair amount of merchant traffic." Lornak gestures politely. "I would like a draught of cider if you please." Lornak continues; "Have bandits become that strong a problem?"
When Lornak receives the cider he takes a good hearty swig and says; "There's nothing better than nature's nectar after a fair amount of well, Nature. Hah, hah!"
Lornak ( Frank S.) HP:32/32 AC: 16(T:13/FF:10) CMD:18 Thursday May 19th, 2016 8:56:52 PM
(OOC was Lornak unsuccessful at his roll to figure out the potions last round or did I roll the wrong skill?)
Var (Tom I) Thursday May 19th, 2016 9:04:27 PM
Var grins wolfishly at the mention of anything alcoholic, and gratefuly accepts a mug.
Asteria Amarante (Genevieve) [HP: 35/35; AC: 18; Touch: 12; FF: 20; CMD: 18] Thursday May 19th, 2016 10:34:02 PM
Asteria also requests a cider after a long journey. She stays mostly silent while others do the talking thing, but is excited for the food. "You speak highly of Derx! I cannot wait to meet this chef, or to eat his food. Do you happen to know what dinner will be? Whatever it is, I'm sure that it will be great!"
ADM Tom Friday May 20th, 2016 10:00:22 AM
(Sorry Frank, I missed that you had made an attempt at identifying the remaining potions. You are successful, they are also Potions of Cure Moderate Wounds.)
Son Belchmuck serves mugs of cider, remarkably without spilling anything, and Lukas stands to offer a toast to the Belchmucks. "We thank you for your hospitality in this inhospitable country." He says, and then takes a drink. His face blanches, but he manages to swallow and gives a weak smile before sitting down. The rest of you try your 'cider'' it is, at best, apple cider vinegar with some twigs that look like they might be spices. The Geb and Nmogaz greedily drink their 'cider', whereas Sabnot sips more lady-like on hers.
Toston Tells their goblin hosts that they're on their way from Dirt City to Acid City, but when he mentions Epria and her 'sewing circle/assassin's guild' Nmogaz jumps to her feet and halfway draws her dagger before the Halfling is able to say "Not actual assassins, dear, just clever marketing!" Nmogaz sits back down with a slight flush of embarrassment.
"Dirt City?" Sabnot says with surprise, "We don't get many caravans out of there. Most of the trade along the road is between Acid City and New Elenna. Well, that's certainly good for everyone is Dirt City is starting to become more active in... Legitimate business dealings." She turns to the merchants and says "No offense, of course."
Dusan compliments the Belchmucks on their establishment; Geb beams with pride and says "Oh Yes, we pride ourselves on being not just the *only* Inn this far south along the trade road, but the *finest* Inn this side of Tears of the Wood." At that Sabnot scoffs and mutters "Stuck up, overpriced, good for nothing..." and trails off as she realizes she had been speaking out loud, Geb pats his wife's hand and she calms down.
Will mentions that it must be hard this far away from civilization. Geb shrugs and says, somewhat wistfully "Yes, well, this is how it's always been. It would be more profitable, perhaps, to be closer to a major city, but that's why we work so hard to make a good name for ourselves! We intend on becoming not just a first-rate establishment for traveling merchants, but a vacation destination for the people of Izen!"
Hmerrin asks about spare lumber, Sabnot thinks about it for a moment and says "Yes, I believe we have some spare planks down in storage. Son?" She turns to Son, who's busy digging for nose-gold and doesn't seem to hear her. "Son!" she snaps, and he stops, knuckle-deep into his nose and turns to his mother. "After dinner, take our guest here down to the storage room and get him some wood." Son nods, and then goes back to 'work'.
Alizar inquires about the Goblin's Rest, and about the trade road itself. "This land has always been in my family," Geb says, "though the Belchmucks haven never been a particularly large or cunning clan, we've made our way in Izen for generations by being sharp merchants. My grandfather built the Inn, hoping to capitalize on the merchants traveling the road, instead of just his simple trading post that he had."
Nmogaz speaks up, saying "The road has always been dangerous. Between the demi-human tribes, Orc hordes, and our...less scrupulous cousins; and the usual highwaymen that such a trade route attracts, its a particularly difficult trip for most trade caravans. Usually those who aren't able to hire extra guards usually budget in bribe money to pay off bandits with." She pauses for a moment to take a sip of her cider, and then says "Violent attacks seem to be on the rise, however. Either the thieves aren't satisfied with the bribes they're receiving, or they're getting greedy."
Lornak asks why the Goblin's Rest doesn't get more business, which prompts a scoff from Sabnot. "People don't trust our kind. Think we're out to murder them or steal from them or sell them into slavery. And yes, most of our fellow goblins do that sort of thing, but we're not like that." Geb reaches over and pats her hand again to calm her down, and he interjects "Yes, that's why we work so hard to please our customers, you see. Changing generations of stereotypes and prejudices is a difficult task for just the five of us out here."
Asteria asks about dinner, which causes Geb to light up once again. "Oh yes! Derx is simply the best."
As he says this, a small & slight goblin comes out of the kitchen, pushing a cart larger than himself loaded with plates and... food? Derx bows to the Belchmucks, and then to the guests. "Tonight our first course is a light salad of oak leaves and toadstools in our house vinaigrette. Our main entree is mashed yams and mutton offal boiled in it's own juices. And for dessert: chilled bug pudding." The plates are passed out and you're faced with what is possibly the most disgusting food you've ever seen. You're also fairly certain that most of this in indigestible by non-goblins.
If you chose to eat anyway, as not to insult your hosts, Make a Fortitude save (DC:16) If you would rather not subject your gastrointestinal tract to these cullinary horrors, make a Bluff check (DC:18) to spare the chef's feelings.
The Belchmucks dig in to their meals, but the group is welcome to continue to chat, if you'd like.
Var (Tom I.) d20+7=24 ; Friday May 20th, 2016 10:09:14 AM
Var barely managed not to spit out his 'Cider' after taking a large gulp of it, he looks betrayed as he sets his mug back down.
When the food arrives, Var sits and looks at the plate for a few moments, reflecting on all the poor decisions in his life that had led him up to this moment. Taking up his fork and knife he takes a bite of the mutton. (Fort save: 24) He chews, frowning, and when he swallows, you all swear you can see a single tear run down his cheek.
Wilford Grimly (HP:27/27; AC: 18; Touch: 12; Flat: 16; CMD: 14) d20+5=23 ; d20+8=18 ; Friday May 20th, 2016 10:43:40 AM
Wil stared at the food. His belly rumbling viciously. The cider was a bit much. It was pleasant to smell. All the natural scents but drinking it was a task. The food, the bugs. Wil was taken aback a little bit but he had eaten Goblin food before. After his father died he spend years as a Grubber but it was still hard to swallow. "So there are two different cultures going on for Goblins right now?" Wil asked curiously. (Diplomacy: 18) "The rumors are unkind and the superstitions are outrageous but many believe it." "How far are we from our destination? Will we accomplish that by mid morning? I've never been outside of Dirt City."
Dušan (Erik) [HP:31/31; AC:13; Touch: 13; FF:10; CMD:15 d100=5 ; d20+5=13 ; d20+12=15 ; Friday May 20th, 2016 1:55:37 PM
Dušan tries to seperate what he thinks might be edible from what he knows is not.
"Gargul give me strength" he says under his breath as a prayer casting Guidnace and Resistance on himself. Unfortunately even the Lei Lines (Lei Roll d100=5) are repelled by this meal and he could not attempt to purify the food stuffs. He takes a bite and tries to swallow (Fortitude d20+3+1+1=13) "Mmmm... Nope!"
Dušan casts prestidigitation on his mouth to avoid spitting it out. He glances around at his hosts realizing he might have just given offence with his outburst. Calling for Gargul's blessing he casts Touch of Glory and Guidnace to aid him in his bluff (Bluff d20+7+4+1), but Gragul holds no favor with him this night. "Nope, I couldn't eat another bite, um... as full as I am from all that, um... trail food I had."
He frowns. He really did not want to give offense, but he's eaten stuff out of refuse bins with more culinary appeal.
(Really dice roller?)
Lornak ( Frank S.) HP:32/32 AC: 16(T:13/FF:10) CMD:18 d20+8=9 ; d20+7=20 ; Friday May 20th, 2016 4:20:16 PM
"Hah, ha, ack!" Lornak spats as the vinegary sting of the cider burns the back of his throat. Recovering his composure he coughs a bit. Politely Lornak says when he regains his breath; "I believe your cider may have spoiled."
As the cornucopia of entrees is presented Lornak is pretty sure that the contents of the table, minus the maple leaves, is palatable. (Perception d20 = 9 [natural 1]) In the wild one learns to graze from the local fare so he has occasionally eaten insects for meal.
Lornak eagerly grabs his utensils. As he looks around the table the is unsure why the other members of the group are straining to enjoy the free feast in front of them. He dives into the salad avoiding the leaves but forking the mushrooms. (Fortitude d20=20)
He consumes the mushroom and smiles at his hosts. They taste earthly and bitter. And alhhough he has enjoyed much better meals with mushrooms in them, these are adequate.
Alizar HP: 23/23 AC: 16(T:12/FF:14) CMD:14 d20+5=19 ; Saturday May 21st, 2016 7:42:53 AM
Alizar was unsure why the rest of his companions were having a hard time with the Goblin Cider. He chuckled at his companions as he took another sip. "I'm not sure what y'all are complaining about. I've had some medical tonics in my time that were a hundred times worse than this, and less medicinal too! This one time I had this Kumbucha drink that tasted like Var's socks after four days wondering the city."
The food, however, was worth the looks of disdain. It took the cleric a few moments to decide on the best course of action. Using the muffled choking of his friends as cover, he quickly cast "guidance" on himself to aid his digestive tract, before taking a large scoop of toadstool and shoving it in his mouth. (Fortitude: 19)
It would be difficult to describe the sensations in his mouth. Imagine a giant worm, filled with mucus and licorice, exploding in your mouth and then the worm vomits. Somehow, he managed to hold it together and even manage a smile. "Yesh, vewy tasteh."
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP:23/23; AC:21; Touch 13; ethereal touch: 15; FF 20] - CMD 24 d20+4=19 ; Sunday May 22nd, 2016 2:02:38 PM
Toston not wanting to offend their hosts takes a tentative bite of the food and a tentative sip of the cider. (Fort Save: 19)
He uses his prestidigitation SLA on the fair to make it more palatable and finds himself using the cider as a dipping sauce for the mutten and the toadstools. They say two wrongs don't make a right but somehow between the prestidigitation the cider and the foodstuffs they are somewhat passable.
"I have had less palatable victuals while crewing a ship before." The gnome proclaims.
He asks to his hosts, "I don't suppose there is any plan for Derx to learn how to prepare more exotic fair? Like say on our way back we happened to drop off a cook book and new food ingredients. I'm not saying there is anything wrong with Derx's goblin cooking but maybe a varied menu could help you attract more business?" Toston suggests
"You did say you were having trouble getting customers from some of the other races. Just think if Derx did learn other styles of cooking you could sell this fair at a premium."
Asteria Amarante (Genevieve) [HP: 35/35; AC: 18; Touch: 12; FF: 20; CMD: 18] d20+4=14 ; Sunday May 22nd, 2016 9:21:12 PM
Asteria takes a sip of her cider, and decides that it isn't all that bad. So, she takes a bit of the food in front of her. She can't keep it in her mouth for more then a second before spitting it out. She looks at the food revolted before looking at the hosts. She lowers her head, takes another gulp of the cider, and silently murmers an apology. "Sorry."
(Fortitude Check: 14)
ADM Tom Monday May 23rd, 2016 10:04:14 AM Wil asks about the friction between the Belchmucks and the other Goblin clans. Sabnot says "Well... I Wouldn't say there are two whole cultures at odds with one another. We are, as I'm sure you've noticed, an anomaly among goblin-kind. We prefer it that way of course, as the alternative is either banditry or the slave trade."
Wil also asks about how much further the trip will be, to which Lukas replies "Two more days of good travel. Three at the most, if the weather or the road is against us."
Lornak claims that the cider has turned. Son scampers over and takes Lornak's cup, and takes a sip of it himself. "S'good." he says with a shrug.
Alizar remarks about the delights of chewing on Var's undergarments.
Once "dinner" is served, most of the group chokes down the "food" successfully. Lukas and some of the other merchants manage to make polite-enough excuses and avoid eating all together. The dwarven merchant who had been traveling with the group digs into the food with little apparent concern for his own health. Epria nearly swoons at the site of her plate, however. Initially Derx swells with pride, however, Once Asteria spits out her food and Dusan's floundering, he begins to deflate.
Toston attempts to diplomatically suggest that Derx perhaps learn to cook food for non-Goblins, which causes Derx's eyes to grow watery and his bottom lip begins to quiver.
Geb freezes mid-chew, and his eyes suddenly go wide with alarm, and Sabnot somehow manages to sit even more rigidly upright. Both of them turn in unison and stare at the chef. "Derx." Sabnot says coldly, "You said you could prepare food that Humans would enjoy."
"But I..." Derx stammers "Humans *like* salads! And the mutton was fresh, I found it by the side of the road just three days ago! I picked all the hair and dirt off it and everything!"
Geb swallows his mouthful of food and says "You said it was a coincidence when our last several guests fell ill. That it couldn't possibly be your cooking!" Derx begins to protest further, but it devolves into incoherent sobs and the diminutive goblin runs from the room. You can hear his tiny feet pound up the stairs and the door to his bedroom slam shut. Geb and Sabnot look at each other for a long, silent moment.
"Our apologies, of course." Sabnot says at last. "Clearly we still have work to do. We are willing to compensate you for any, ah, complications that may arise from this meal."
Nmogaz continues to eat her dinner as if nothing was happening, but the dining room is otherwise silent. Dinner, it seems, is over. Lukas and several of the merchants excuse themselves and return to their rooms (after making a stop at the outhouse). The rest of you are free to stay at the table or leave if you wish. (Son will retrieve the spare planks of wood for Hmerrin upon request).
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP:23/23; AC:21; Touch 13; ethereal touch: 15; FF 20] - CMD 24 Monday May 23rd, 2016 2:29:17 PM
Toston says to his hosts, "Please don't be too hard to Derx. He tried his best. I didn't want to hurt his feelings or cause him any trouble. I just wanted to maybe help him and you. As I said we are heading to Acid City. We could buy some cookbooks and some supplies that have a long shelf life. Derx could study the cookbook and using the supplies cook other styles of food. You could advertise the food you offer and sell it for a better profit and hopefully attract more business. I honestly just want to help you prosper and help Derx become a better cook."
He decides to stay at the table until the rest of his company turns in.
Dušan (Erik) [HP:31/31; AC:13; Touch: 13; FF:10; CMD:15 Monday May 23rd, 2016 4:19:20 PM
"I feel bad for the lad," Dušan comments, "but he could definitely use a few pointers."
"Sabnot, while your Cider is... strong, you wouldn't have anything in the way of spirits? Maybe a nice import?" Drinking on an empty stomach probably isn't a great idea, but it will at least help him sleep. Dušan stays at the table, "Is there anything that needs to be discussed for next leg of the journey?"
Wilford Grimly (HP:27/27; AC: 18; Touch: 12; Flat: 16; CMD: 14) Monday May 23rd, 2016 4:26:22 PM
"I have a delicious Scorpion recipe I could offer," Wil states. "I better get some rest for the trip tomorrow." "Yeah, how about you do that," snapped a old man sitting in the corner of the room. Wil looked, blinked then found the old man was gone. "Cicero, I just saw an old man?" He said quietly, to himself, as he walked out of the room. "Maybe, this inn is haunted." He then laughed after assuring Wil his night was going to be long and unrestful. "You're just cruel." Wil said.
Lornak ( Frank S.) HP:32/32 AC: 16(T:13/FF:10) CMD:18 d20+8=15 ; Monday May 23rd, 2016 5:53:32 PM
Lornak feels confused when Drex storms off. The entree's he's been eating aren't gourmet but they were a far cry from inedible... "Or are they." He says. Lornak inspects the mushrooms in the salad again to re-evaluate what species they are. (Perception d20=15)
If they are striped toadstools of the non lethal poisonous variety;
He notices that the mushrooms he is consuming are striped. As in the Dikarya phylum variety. His memory of poisons tells him that if this particular variety is consumed that it causes hallucinations, giggles and increased salivation. Lornak cannot suppress the uncontrollable need to snack. As he satiates the desire to munch, he does his best to warn his comrades but all that comes out of his mouth are little giggles.
If they are not striped toadstools than he will;
He notes that the mushrooms aren't poisonous but they are not exactly edible either. The irony was not lost on Lornak as he takes a bite out of the next entree out of politeness and empathy for Drex. He immediately regretted his decision. The offal tasted absolutely awful. It took all of strength not to spit it out and everyone around him can see his charcoal complexion turn slate grey.
Hmerrin(HP 41/43 AC18/14t/16ff, CMD 20) d20+8=9 ; d20+8=23 ; Monday May 23rd, 2016 6:59:34 PM
Hmerrin looks at the food, and then waits for one of his braver companions to attempt the feast. Their reactions confirm his suspicions, and the teen just pushes the plate away.
With "dinner" out of the way, the lad grabs up the wood and eagerly sets to work.
Laying the board on top of the bed slats, he enthusiastically saws away...straight through both wooden plank and the bed frame itself, which shifts, cracks loudly, and collapses to the floor. Hmerrin gazes at the scene wide-eyed for several minutes.
"I can fix it!" he cries, moving again.
After a few hours of sawing, drilling, and shaping, Hmerrin creates a bracket on each side of the bed. The bed frame has been cut in half, and the cut ends placed into each bracket, where a series of equally placed holes and a peg have resulted in a bed frame adjustable from goblin sized to a good 7' long.
The lad lays himself out, throws his back into the space vacant from the too short mattress for his feet, and sighs contentedly. "Much better."
Asteria Amarante (Genevieve) [HP: 35/35; AC: 18; Touch: 12; FF: 20; CMD: 18] Monday May 23rd, 2016 8:40:16 PM
"Oh... I didn't mean to upset him! I don't know what came over me! I mean, it isn't the best food I've tasted, but at least it was somewhat edible!" Asteria feels very guilty for causing their chief to leave in such a mannor. "Can someone go after him? I would, but I'd probably just make him feel more sad. He just needs a bit more experience, that's all! I'm sure one day her won't poison us all!"
Alizar HP: 23/23 AC: 16(T:12/FF:14) CMD:14 Tuesday May 24th, 2016 2:32:22 AM
Alizar applied his palm to his face as his companions did their best to dig themselves out of the social holes they had dug. Thankfully, the goblins seemed to take the whole thing in stride, and before he knew it, dinner was over. Stretching out, Alizar decided to join Dusan for a night cap in the lounge before bed.
ADM Tom d6=2 ; Tuesday May 24th, 2016 11:30:37 AM
(OoC: Whoops, missed a Var post. no matter, he doesn't have anything useful to add.)
The party attempts to smooth things over with the Belchmucks, but Geb and Sabnot seem more single-minded in their pursuit of hospitality excellence than before, if anything.
Lornak takes a moment to double check his mental list of poisons and alchemical reagents against what they were served, and they don't seem to be of the dangerous variety, outside of causing some cramps, trots and the occasional bout of vomiting. Neither, however, are they among the more 'fun' variety of mushrooms.
Hmerrin[b] spends a good portion of the time allotted for resting on a hardware project, but at the end of it the Belchmucks have at least *one* serviceable bed for a medium-sized person.
[b]Var excuses himself after what seems like an appropriate amount of time, saying "It's gonna be another long day on the road; you city-boys should get your rest while you can."
Wil, Asteria, and Toston offer to bring cookbooks and recipes for Derx to study. Sabnot says cautiously "While you are under no obligation to do so, we would be very appreciative of any help you might bring us." Geb is much more enthusiastic "Oh yes, yes! I'm sure the lad just needs a bit more training, is all! Er...just make sure the cookbooks have more pictures than they do words, as Derx reads about as well as he cooks."
Alizar and Dusan decide to stay for another cider; a decision I'm sure they won't regret come the morning. Soon they find themselves in an empty dining hall with just themselves and Nmogaz. Conversation is pleasant, if not somewhat curt.
After retiring for the evening, you find that after a day of fighting, traveling and being slightly poisoned has taken quite a toll. Sleep comes quickly & easily.
(in the interest of transparency, I made a list of players who didn't tip Son, listed alphabetically and rolled a d6)
Dusan Make a Perception check. Perception <11 Highlight to display spoiler: { You sleep soundly through the night } Perception of 12+ Highlight to display spoiler: { You wake suddenly to a noise, and find Son Belchmuck in your room, one foot knocked over the washtub, one hand in your bag of personal belongings. He scampers off, a look of guilt and shame on his face. }
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP:23/23; AC:21; Touch 13; ethereal touch: 15; FF 20] - CMD 24 Tuesday May 24th, 2016 2:32:56 PM
Toston tells the hosts "We will return with picture cook books if we can find them and some new ingredients. You have my word."
The gnome then heads up to his room and falls asleep in his just right sized bed.
Dušan (Erik) [HP:31/31; AC:13; Touch: 13; FF:10; CMD:15 d20+3=14 ; Tuesday May 24th, 2016 3:29:00 PM
Dušan wakes with a start at a sudden crash. He peers bleary eyed and just manages to make out Son dropping his pack and scampering out the room. Still feeling the drinks earlier he doesn't give chase, but does go through his bag to make sure nothing important is missing. He props the door shut with the wash basi, and then sets his bag at the head of bed as a pillow. Grumbling to himself he attempts to get back to sleep, "Well there goes his tip."
Lornak ( Frank S.) HP:32/32 AC: 16(T:13/FF:10) CMD:18 Tuesday May 24th, 2016 5:19:42 PM
Lornak didn't so much as exit from the table after the evening pleasantries were exchanged as bolt. He spends the evening nursing stomach cramps and other biological mechanisms that involve fluids after eating Drex's fine dining.
At one point he seriously considered using his recently acquired potion of Cure Moderate Wounds on himself...
...eventually his situation subsided and he crawled into his room and passed out. Thankfully he had resigned to sleep on the floor already so his bedding had already been laid out accordingly. He didn't know if he would have had the strength to get into the bed.
Asteria Amarante (Genevieve) [HP: 35/35; AC: 18; Touch: 12; FF: 20; CMD: 18] Tuesday May 24th, 2016 7:01:19 PM
Asteria, after the incident with Derx, quickly goes to bed. "Good night guys. Don't let the evil creatures that probably live in these beds bite."
Hmerrin(HP 41/43 AC18/14t/16ff, CMD 20) Tuesday May 24th, 2016 9:05:21 PM
Hmerrin spends a lot longer than he planned in making the bed, and when he goes down, he crashes hard.
Someone is going to have to rouse the lad in the morning....
Alizar HP: 23/23 AC: 16(T:12/FF:14) CMD:14 Wednesday May 25th, 2016 12:04:28 AM
"Zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz", Alizar said.
ADM Tom Wednesday May 25th, 2016 2:25:35 PM
The dawn comes and finds the Goblin's rest already bustling with activity. Canteens being filled, horses and carts are being made ready to return to the road, and Derx has been convinced to try his hand at baking some bread for the guests, so they don't have to leave on an empty stomach. It doesn't even have any bugs in it or anything.
A few of you look slightly worse for wear after last night, but nothing that will keep you from traveling. The caravan is gathering in the courtyard, as it were, with Nmogaz standing atop the gate keeping watch.
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP:23/23; AC:21; Touch 13; ethereal touch: 15; FF 20] - CMD 24 Wednesday May 25th, 2016 2:35:10 PM
Toston gets his gear together and gets ready to move out.
When he gets to the kitchen and sees the fresh baked bed he takes a large slice and makes a big show to Derx of eating it.
"Mmmm." the gnome says
"I am sorry that I offended you yesterday Derx. When we come back from Acid City I promise you we will bring you new ingredients and cookbooks." He then tips the goblin cook a silver piece.
Lornak ( Frank S.) HP:32/32 AC: 16(T:13/FF:10) CMD:18 d20+7=26 ; d20+6=24 ; Wednesday May 25th, 2016 3:41:51 PM
Lornak slowly wakes from the noise of activity as people prep for departure. His body hurts from the aftermath of the evenings internal turmoil. He slowly gets up and gathers his gear.
Lornak makes his way through the mainroom when he notices that there is bread. Drex made bread.
And people are eating it.
Lornak slowly walks by and goes a little slate gray in the face again but manages to compliment the cook on his way out to the caravan. "My compliments, may you continue to impress future patrons with your comfort cooking." (Bluff d20=26)
He attempts a slight of hand to make it look as if he is taking a piece of it. (Sleight of Hand d20=24) "My thanks to you." He says as he nods, masking his hand movement, and continues out to the door with "a piece of bread" in his hand.
Once outside, Lornak checks his gear and grabs a ration out of his pack. As he travels through the day he will keep a look out for edible fruits and berries.
Wilford Grimly (HP:27/27; AC: 18; Touch: 12; Flat: 16; CMD: 14) Wednesday May 25th, 2016 4:57:24 PM
Wil gives Drex a scroll with rough instructions on how to boil scorpion. "Dex, you would have the kill the beast first," he said with a smile. "The one we killed was a monster. The food lasted for a week though." He offered a hand of thanks and left with the others. (OOC: He did get the name wrong..btw)
Dušan (Erik) [HP:31/31; AC:13; Touch: 13; FF:10; CMD:15 d20+11=26 ; Wednesday May 25th, 2016 4:57:45 PM
Dušan sighs as he wakes and prepares himself for the unfortunate duty of telling Geb of Son's nocturnal activity. He casts Touch of Glory and Guidnace as he prepares for the task at hand.
Dušan accepts some bread and tries to catch Geb's attention so he can ask for a word in private. Once alone he hands Geb a silver for each Goblin minus Son. "I commend you on what you're trying to do here, and while there may still be some work to do, Derx already shows improvement. Here is a tip to you and each of your staff... except Son. I regret to inform you I found him with his hand in my pack last night. I don't believe anything is missing. I was tempted to make a display of tipping everyone but him, but in the end I decided this is your house and it is best to let you deal with this as you see fit, publicly or privately. Thanks for the stay." (Diplomacy d20+7+4+1=26)
After the road stretches long between the travelers and the Inn, Dušan exaggerates the tail of Son's clumsiness and shocked expression, hoping for a few laughs and a lighter mood to travel with.
Asteria Amarante (Genevieve) [HP: 35/35; AC: 18; Touch: 12; FF: 20; CMD: 18] Wednesday May 25th, 2016 8:22:37 PM
Asteria gets up groggy but quickly packs her gear up. On her way out, she sees the bread made by Derx. She grabs a large slice and pats the cook on the back. "This looks great! No bugs! Don't give up on cooking, because I'm sure one day you will be amazing!"
Hmerrin(HP 41/43 AC18/14t/16ff, CMD 20) Wednesday May 25th, 2016 8:58:23 PM
Morning comes too early, and Hmerrin groggily packs up his things. Heading out the door, he spies bread. The sleepyhead has already eaten half of it before the question of how it got made enters his mind.
"Whatever," he mumbles to himself, and finishes it off.
Dusan's tale earns a chuckle, although afterward Hmerrin frets to himself about his lack of attention, and the group's lack of guard. He knows he certainly would have slept through the whole inn rifling through his bag. Its not a good feeling.
Alizar HP: 23/23 AC: 16(T:12/FF:14) CMD:14 d20+8=25 ; Wednesday May 25th, 2016 10:21:06 PM
Alizar awoke with the rest of his companions, new day, new roads to travel. Despite the smallish bed, Alizar surprisingly slept through the night. This may or may not have something to do with the cider. After the first two mugs, the taste improved dramatically, and Alizar had easily fallen asleep as soon as his head hi the pillow. He graciously thanked their goblin hosts for their hospitality, then asked, "Do you have any recommendations for paths we might take to attract the least bit of trouble on the rest of our journey?" (Diplomacy - 25)
ADM Tom Thursday May 26th, 2016 2:26:58 PM Toston makes a show of enjoying the food for Derx, he still seems upset but you think you can see the hint of a smile at the compliment. Hmerrin and Asteria dig into the bread as well, and seem pleased. Lornak, not trusting any of this, pretends to eat a roll until he can reach his own supply of rations. Wil hands the cook a recipe for boiled scorpion. One can only hope that Derx hires someone else to hunt scorpion, giving his diminutive size and lack of muscle.
Dusan speaks quietly with Geb about Son's attempted burglary. Geb shakes his head, jowls shaking along with them "Oh, mister Dusan, I can not accept your money. After the humiliations that you and your companions had to endure, despite our best intentions, it would simply be improper for me to do so. I can assure you that Son will be disciplined appropriately, as well." He puts a hand to his many chins and thinks for a moment "Oh, perhaps no bug pudding for a week?" Geb waves a hand dismissively and says "Sabnot will know what to do. Again, sir, our deepest apologies for Son's lack of control over his more base goblinoid instincts."
While Dusan and Geb have their conversation, Alizar asks Sabnot about the safest path to Acid City. "Well, despite any highwaymen you might encounter, the road is still a better option than the alternative. If you run into any of the Orc tribes, keep an eye out for what totems they carry. the Wolverine Tribe is dangerous, but the Lion Tribe you could parley with. I'd avoid the other goblin clans, if possible. Some, like the Chainburns, aren't outwardly hostile, but neither are they welcoming to outsiders; others, like the Evilmurder clan, well..." Sabnot pauses and gives a furtive glance out the window at Nmogaz at her guard post, "Well the less said about them, the better. Oh, and do be wary of the Sickhearts, they're slavers who sell to the Orc tribes, but have been known to do business with outsiders on occasion."
Outside, the caravan is starting to take shape, and Lukas comes back in from supervising to let the group know they're ready to leave. the Belchmucks, as well as Derx, come out onto the porch to watch the caravan leave. With a nod from Lukas Nmogaz swings the gate open, and the caravan rolls into motion.
Once back onto the main road, Lukas says "Never. Again."
Lornak ( Frank S.) HP:32/32 AC: 16(T:13/FF:10) CMD:18 d20+8=27 ; Thursday May 26th, 2016 2:35:51 PM
Lornak steps in with the caravan and is thankful for his planning for a long trek. The rations he consumes fill him up and energize him. He settles in for the march and puts his eyes on the road for Orc and Goblin Tribes,... maybe some fruit or berries. (Perception d20 = 27)
Hearing Lukas speak Lornak responds; "Oh I don't know, I believe they deserve another chance. They are making great strides to turn stereotypes. We would do well to encourage them."
Wilford Grimly (Erik) (HP:27/27; AC: 18; Touch: 12; Flat: 16; CMD: 14) d20+7=11 ; Thursday May 26th, 2016 6:51:01 PM
Wilford giggles to himself at the thought of returning to the Inn, somehow making it sound unnerving rather than whimsical. "I would like to have more of that scorpion again."
Wil keeps an eye out for the Orcs and Goblins Sabnot warned them of, but the disembodied voices arguing over the likely hood of Derx's success at obtaining such a beast kept distracting him.
Dušan (Erik) [HP:31/31; AC:13; Touch: 13; FF:10; CMD:15 Thursday May 26th, 2016 6:57:46 PM
Sabnot warnings put Dušan on edge. "Staying at a goblin inn might help with a little subterfuge, if these lands are really crawling with so many unfriendly tribes. Just remind me to fill up before hand... and bring my own flask... and post sentry. On second thought, I'm with Lukas on this one."
Dušan casts Detect Magic keeping a third open for any unusual auras.
Hmerrin(HP 41/43 AC18/14t/16ff, CMD 20) Thursday May 26th, 2016 7:38:43 PM
Hmerrin shrugs at Lukas' comment. "If the guy learns to cook, it'll beat sleeping in a wagon," he opines.
The awfully long list of potential tribes they might meet does nothing for the lad's nerves, and he spends a good hour starting at every sound, before finally succumbing to the boredom of the ride and relaxing a little.
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP:23/23; AC:21; Touch 13; ethereal touch: 15; FF 20] - CMD 24 d20+12=25 ; Thursday May 26th, 2016 8:35:47 PM
Toston says to Lukas, "We have to come back. We gave them our word. We are a caravan there has to be cook books and non-perishable ingredients that we could buy at Acid City and come back in order to help Derx."
(Perception: 25)
Asteria Amarante (Genevieve) [HP: 35/35; AC: 18; Touch: 12; FF: 20; CMD: 18] d20+6=17 ; d20+8=15 ; Thursday May 26th, 2016 9:15:53 PM
Asteria silently takes her place at the front of the group, keeping an eye out for creatures that mean harm upon the caravan. She keeps her Greataxe out as a message for others to leave this group alone.
Perception: 17 Intimidate: 15
Alizar HP: 23/23 AC: 16(T:12/FF:14) CMD:14 Thursday May 26th, 2016 10:11:55 PM
"'EvilMurder Clan'. Huh, well I can see where some might not find them welcoming."
Alizar shouldered his gear. "Well, thanks for the hospitality. If there is anything I can ever do to help y'all, just give me a holler"
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