North by Northwest (storyline)/2023-01-23 - Goblin Sappers (log)

Lormesta 23-24, 5123

by Leafiara Autumnwind of the TownCrier

Synopsis

A yellow-spotted goblin comes to the Landing well, saying his brother if sick after the black rock exploded and blue light zapped the walls until wall fuzz fell on them. Not sure what to make of it, adventurers take him into the group for vague instructions on where to go. Along the way, they run into the settler Samfelt, who was hunting for velnalin before getting lost.

Samfelt ends up accompanying them as then group ultimately goes to a tree in Danjirland, but finds the goblin's brother already dead. Still, he thanks them for trying to help. He says his brother will miss the "big war" in ten days, as the mountain monsters are mad because the black rocks are gone. He coughs up sap and realizes he's going to die too, but reveals the war will involve the "King" (presumed to be Gnul) and his "shiny gems" (presumed to be the plinite) before ultimately passing away.

As the group ponders what this all means and why these goblins got sick while the adventurers who were in that cavern didn't, the goblins' bodies begin caving in and peeling apart with sap spilling out and hardening. Eventually a group escorts Samfelt back, where he explains some of his history in Vornavis before retiring for the evening.

Log

Goblin's Request

[arrived a bit late, so no idea what the lead-up was]

[Town Well]

An old wooden bench rests in the shade next to the well, nearly covered by a low-hanging oak branch. A few townspeople and merchants relax and chat in the cool night air, taking a break in their errands or simply wasting time. You also see an inlaid leather grimoire soaring around with its gilt-swept ethereal violet pinions, a lazy wild dark crimson dog, the web-draped Missoni disk, a knitted cream and blood red scarf, some peppered beef and apple stew over buttered cornmeal porridge, a rust-colored bowl of rich pumpkin stew, a crazed canine shank nicely seared on all sides, a scrawny yellow-spotted goblin, a glass of chocolate milk, the Bellaja disk, a spice-rubbed roasted goat haunch, a tiny candy, a candy-coated rat-on-a-stick, a mist grey jellied eel, a bright rainbow candy cane, a rust-colored bowl of rich pumpkin stew, a bun-cradled foot long length of sausage link, the silk-veiled Quilthaias disk painted with scarlet snapdragons, a pair of knitted blood red mittens, some gold-edged maroon socks, the repousse copper Perigourd disk raised in leafy designs, a bowl of steaming frumenty, a sugar-dusted travel biscuit, the sparking Dendum disk, a resplendent obsidian black raven that is flying around, a tiered honey-infused flatbread, a frost-covered yellow-eyed silvery lor mandrake with a large acorn on it, an emaciated black horse, the bloodstained Xorus disk with scuffed and dented sides, the Meril disk, a frustrated wasteland spirit that is flying around, a fluffy white cat that is sitting and a bashful swamp spirit that is flying around.

Also here: Whimweaver Leafiara, Missoni, Leifa, Town Councilor Kiyna, Seaward Gutstorm, Bellaja, Miss Quilthaias, Town Councilor Kayse, Perigourd, Dame Evia, Seneschal Dendum, Magister Raelee, Jouni, Meril, Lord Xorus, Grand Lord Irval, Stormyrain, Earthdiver, Tikba, Arahnim, Sir Cryheart

Cryheart asks, "Bell from town?"

Speaking to Gutstorm, Stormyrain growls, "That is enough of that."

Cryheart asks, "Or elsewhere?"

Speaking to Leafiara, Dendum remarks, ""Eh...welcome."

Speaking to Dendum, Leafiara whispers aloud, "Do I even want to know what's happening here?"

Speaking to Cryheart, Evia says, "He dun't know."

Speaking to Leafiara, Dendum says, ""The goblin lost his kin....knows not where...something about a bell."

Speaking to Leafiara, Dendum says, ""Outside the gates."

Speaking drunkenly to Leafiara, Gutstorm slurs, "Scadaver hunt!"

Earthdiver says, "This goblin has offered us aid."

Tikba neutrally says, "What sort of aid we do not know."

Speaking in Sylvankind to Stormyrain, Kayse asks something you don't understand.

Cryheart says, "Well, it seems he has run from some distance place."

Speaking in Sylvankind to Kayse, Stormyrain asks something you don't understand.

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "Wit a bell."

Speaking to Cryheart, Perigourd says, "I would imagine near the Sentoph."

Speaking evenly in Sylvankind to Stormyrain, Kayse says something you don't understand.

Perigourd says, "If his brother was wounded, he couldn't have made it far."

Quilthaias whispers something to Leifa.

Speaking to a scrawny yellow-spotted goblin, Bellaja urges, "Perhaps we should hurry to him. Will you show these kind people?"

The goblin says, "Brodder sick. Black rock explode, blue light zap wulls. Zap zap. Wall fuzz fall on us."

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "Oh he mean da forge."

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "We did dat."

Tikba says, "Yes."

Kelfyr says, "Gnul brought the wall down."

Missoni says, "But then you ran..."

Tikba neutrally says, "He is a survivor of our attack."

Cryheart says, "Sorry."

Speaking to a scrawny yellow-spotted goblin, Missoni asks, "Where did you run to?"

Kelfyr says, "He tried to bury the entire place."

The goblin says, "Wall fuzz sticky, not come off. Brodder sick."

Kelfyr says, "Us and them alike."

Bellaja asks, "Was there fungus on the walls?"

Speaking to a scrawny yellow-spotted goblin, Kayse asks, "How did you know to come here?"

Irval asks, "Web?"

Cryheart says, "Seems we also suffered from Gnul."

The goblin coughs.

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "Oopsh."

Perigourd says, "Perhaps we ought to go and scout for this bell around the mountain."

Speaking to a scrawny yellow-spotted goblin, Bellaja asks, "So it hurts to breathe?"

Earthdiver says, "Spores, perhaps."

Cryheart says, "He does appear to be sick."

The goblin says, "Brodder hurt all uver."

Leafiara says, "Wall fuzz being something like moss or... spores, that's a good thought."

Speaking softly to Gutstorm, Quilthaias says, "Wun uh these days.."

Speaking to Earthdiver, Bellaja says, "I was thinking when he said fuzz maybe moldy."

The goblin says, "Rung bell. I culdnt see him."

Speaking to a scrawny yellow-spotted goblin, Irval says, "Take us to your brudda and I can try and heal him. I am a healer of sorts. Sometimes..."

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "Leafi ye know da bell?"

Earthdiver asks, "Take us to this bell?"

Tikba reluctantly says, "You must show us."

Speaking to Gutstorm, Leafiara says, "No idea."

Tikba says, "More details will not change things."

Cryheart asks, "Bell in the Sentoph mountain, or ye had a bell?"

Xorus says, "Talador had a church bell. Once."

Evia says, "I think he is uncertain where his brudder...err brother ran too."

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "Dere a bell at da dark elf tower."

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "Dhnar place ?"

Speaking to Xorus, Dendum says, ""Talador had many things once."

The goblin says, "Hurd bell, near trees. Culdnt see brodder. Ran here."

Evia says, "'hmm."

Kelfyr says, "Perhaps we should go out and listen for the bell."

Wolfloner darkly asks, "Dragonsclaw forest perhaps?"

Speaking to a scrawny yellow-spotted goblin, Dendum asks, ""You wish to come or stay?"

Cryheart asks, "Perhaps the settlement camp?"

Kiyna suggests, "Does feel like we need to find this place with the bell he's talking about."

Bellaja asks, "Does that place outside of town have a bell?"

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "Will go check da tower!"

The goblin says, "Me go."

Bellaja hesitantly says, "Boln."

Dendum says, "Follow the Cryheart."

Bellaja says, "Voln, whatever you call it."

Missoni says, "Yes, I thought we should look for it."

Cryheart asks, "Ye want to show us the way?"

Earthdiver says, "Some small monastery outside of town, I hear."

The goblin says, "Dunt know way."

Evia says, "Well, I reckon we all go wander a little."

Jouni asks, "Sentoph? The ruined Temple of Love?"

Missoni reassuringly says, "We will find it."

Cryheart asks, "How far away from town?"

Irval asks, "How bout you tell us if you think we are getting close or you see anything you recognize ya?"

Tikba says, "I suppose we must search, then."

[General] Gutstorm drunkenly thinks, "Me ringed da bell."

Irval asks, "Maybe start towards Sentoph?"

Speaking to a scrawny yellow-spotted goblin, Evia asks, "Or if you catch Brudders scent, holler out ok?"

Leafiara says, "He said near the trees, so start there, I suppose..."

Cryheart asks, "How far from town did ye hear the bell?"

Bellaja whispers to the group, "It won't hurt us to go patrol, I suppose."

Dendum says, "Will...scout."

Speaking to a scrawny yellow-spotted goblin, Leifa suggests, "Obviously we need to help your brother and soon. Time's awasting, little fella."

The goblin says, "Run far, run fast."

Bellaja echoes, "Far."

Earthdiver says, "I bet you will remember if we go outside of the gates."

Irval asks, "Anything you can remember besides the bell?"

The goblin says, "Trees."

Cryheart asks, "Lower trollfang?"

Irval asks, "OK trees, anything else?"

Cryheart asks, "Or upper trollfang?"

Missoni exclaims, "Bell and trees. That is enough to work with!"

Nazarr asks, "Any particular animals in the area?"

Cryheart says, "I am afraid that is about as much we are going to get out of this poor fellow."

Speaking in Sylvankind, Stormyrain asks something you don't understand.

Leafiara says, "First step, at least get in the vicinity of trees."

Stormyrain asks, "Is there a bell at the Outpost?"

Tikba says, "Or the campsite."

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "No find Bert."

Cryheart says, "I am thinking of campsite first..then search going south."

Evia asks, "Shall we go walk about and look?"

Stormyrain says, "We are certainly not finding it here."

Earthdiver asks, "Well, little goblin. If you want our aid, we'll have to leave town. Are you coming with us?"

Speaking to Cryheart, Leifa says, "It does seem perhaps like a good time to take charge."

Bellaja says, "We're getting nowhere standing here."

Cryheart asks, "Follow us?"

Cryheart asks, "Or ye staying here?"

The goblin says, "Fullow."

Kayse whispers to the group, "Remember what Elidal said our greatest "weakness" was according to Gnul? Heart.....walk cautiously."

Cryheart says, "Ok."

Earthdiver says, "Excellent."

Speaking abruptly to Gutstorm, Tikba asks, "Wait, what bell did you ring?"

Cryheart says, "Let us start at the campsite."

Bellaja whispers to the group, "A good reminder."

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "Da Dhenar tower bell."

[General] Evia thinks, "Greetings to all townfolks if you are too cold or need to just get warm, House Phoenix welcomes you to our hearth, warm fire, hot food. Please make yourself comfortable if you want to there."

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "It next to where kobold dig when we firsht find forge."

Cryheart says, "Ok..we can head there."

Cryheart says, "After the campsite."

Cryheart asks, "All ready?"

[General] Evia thinks, "Also it is a sanctuary and no harm will follow you in."

Cryheart says, "And I suggest being prepared just in case."

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "How we gonna shneak him pasht da archery towersh?"

Cryheart says, "Ok..out we go."

Speaking to Gutstorm, Leafiara says, "He's small, just surround him."

Speaking to Cryheart, Bellaja says, "Try and stand close to hide him."

Cryheart says, "He can hide withing our group."

Speaking quietly to her Tehir spiced coffee, Kayse says, "Picked a bad night to not drink whiskey."

Speaking warmly to a scrawny yellow-spotted goblin, Missoni says, "Stay close."

Cryheart says, "Moving."

Speaking to Kayse, Stormyrain says, "I haven't had a glass yet."

Speaking wryly to Stormyrain, Kayse says, "The night is young."

Speaking to herself, Stormyrain mutters, "You've no idea."

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "Anyone need a bite to eat?"

[travel commences and goes on for quite a while throughout this log]

Nairena says, "Perhaps later."

Cryheart says, "Hmm."

[some initial difficulties with the goblin following]

Cryheart asks, "Ye scared?"

Xorus suggests, "We may want to avoid the archery towers."

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "Me dont make nuff fer deez eshcort bounty, dat all me dotta shay bout dat."

Stormyrain says, "I'm singing peace--that will hopefully grant a bit of safety."

Bellaja says, "He's all over the place."

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "Did he kill da gobo?" ["he" being a hiresword]

Bellaja says, "Hard to protect him."

The yellow-spotted goblin follows you and hides among the group.

[more of this messaging all throughout the travel]

Evia says, "Well, can't say I blame him, he's mostly lost."

Leafiara says, "There we go."

Cryheart says, "There he is hidden."

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "Shmart."

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "Dat why me kill dem hireshord when me shee em."

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "Nuttin but trouble."

[Lower Dragonsclaw, Forest]

You pause to allow your eyes to adjust to the further dimming of the light as you move deeper into the trees. The oaks surrounding you loom larger, and are interspersed with modwir trees, further blocking the rays of the moon.

Leifa complains, "Hey, what is that under my skirt?"

The goblin says, "Nut these trees."

Cryheart asks, "Further south?"

(Missoni shelters the goblin with her dark skirts.)

Guarrin asks, "Trollfang then?"

The goblin sneezes on Missoni's dark skirts.

Gutstorm yells, "Chase!"

Stormyrain says, "No."

Speaking to Annadelle, Stormyrain says, "Pardon us."

Speaking to Annadelle, Alosaka says, "Apologies."

[Upper Trollfang]

The scurrying of unseen creatures occassionally cause the snapping of a tiny twig and you oft times catch the glimpse of brown fur or black feather. The dense and low-lying flora of the area quickly conceal anything that is not directly on the path however and you are feeling a bit apprehensive about moving further.

Te goblin nods, "Trees."

Cryheart asks, "Want trees up north?"

Tikba says, "The Trollfang."

Surprise Samfelt

[Upper Trollfang]

Three large modwir trees stand in a north-south line and split the trail as it passes from west to east. The northeast branch runs up the side of a long winding ridge while the southeast branch disappears in the brush that grows along the base of the ridge. The two trails come together and form a wider trail that runs off to the northwest. You also see a small mound.

Also here: Whimweaver Leafiara, Missoni, Leifa, Town Councilor Kiyna, Bellaja, Miss Quilthaias, Town Councilor Kayse, Dame Evia, Magister Raelee, Jouni, Meril, Lord Xorus, Grand Lord Irval, Stormyrain, Earthdiver, Tikba, Arahnim, Sir Guarrin, Lady Emperia, High Lord Nazarr, Alosaka, Asben, Seaward Gutstorm, Wolfloner, Ulfwine, Perigourd, Sir Cryheart, Settler Samfelt

(OOC) Earthdiver's player whispers to the group, "Should have invited her to the adventure."

Samfelt rubs his chin thoughtfully.

Samfelt deeply exclaims, "Oh. Hello!"

Sir Cryheart's group just went southeast.

Missoni cheerfully greets, "Samfelt."

Settler Samfelt just arrived.

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "Mebbe da banded in?"

Sir Cryheart's group just went southeast.

Speaking to Cryheart, Stormyrain says, "Hold a moment."

Earthdiver whispers to the group, "That guy."

(OOC) Bellaja's player whispers to the group, "Sure. Then we just need the Cowardly Lion and Tinman."

Ulfwine yells in Elven something you don't understand.

Sir Cryheart's group just went northwest.

Speaking to Samfelt, Perigourd asks, "Looking for more timber?"

Samfelt deeply says, "Can you help? I'm a bit lost in this forest. New to the area."

Alosaka says, "We're also lost, it seems."

Speaking to Samfelt, Perigourd asks, "Where were you headed?"

Speaking to Samfelt, Missoni exclaims, "Of course!"

Speaking to Samfelt, Tikba asks, "Are you looking for camp?"

Leafiara says, "Well, we're sort of in the middle of something else..."

Speaking in Elven to Samfelt, Ulfwine says something you don't understand.

Irval exclaims, "Samfelt!"

Cryheart asks, "Looking for something?"

Samfelt deeply says, "Just looking for my way back to the campsite. But I'll join you for a bit, you all look well armed. If you don't mind."

Irval says, "Peace friend, remember I helped you cut trees! Mind the goblin."

Cryheart says, "Ok."

Tikba amusedly says, "We are well armed."

Samfelt deeply asks, "Probably safer to travel with like that, yes?"

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "Jush dont hurt da wildlife Shammy."

Cryheart says, "We take ye back to the campsite."

Earthdiver says, "Some days. Some days not."

Samfelt joins Cryheart's group.

Speaking to Samfelt, Guarrin says, "Might be safer if we take you back to the camp."

[Cryheart starts heading back]

Ulfwine says, "I will provide snoke for cover."

Samfelt deeply says, "I have a sword."

Tikba says, "If we encounter any enemies, you must hold very still."

Samfelt nods at Guarrin.

Stormyrain says, "And I my axe."

Samfelt shows Guarrin his short sword.

Speaking to Samfelt, Missoni asks, "What brings you out tonight?"

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "We goin da shenic route."

Speaking to Samfelt, Irval asks, "More wood for the wall?"

Samfelt deeply says, "Cold weather brings hunger. I told the others I would kill some velnalin, and the one I was chasing down ran south. After awhile I found myself in some different woods."

Kelfyr says, "Some stands of trees are more dangerous than others in these parts."

Speaking to Samfelt, Perigourd says, "The Trollfang is much more dangerous."

Speaking to Samfelt, Bellaja asks, "Did you hear a bell?"

Missoni says, "The snow does rather change the look of the woods."

Kelfyr says, "I'd recommend going in groups."

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "Mebbe a dinner bell?"

The goblin says, "Nut these trees!" [we're back in the Lower Dragonsclaw]

The goblin says, "Nut these trees!"

Evia says, "Nut those ones."

Cryheart says, "We shall find those trees."

Samfelt deeply asks, "Couldn't tell one tree from another. I'm used to being in a town... what was that?"

Missoni says, "The Trollfang, then."

The goblin says, "Nut these trees!"

The goblin says, "Nut these trees!"

Samfelt deeply exclaims, "Is that a goblin?!"

Alosaka says, "We seemed to be having more luck there."

Leafiara offhandedly mentions, "Don't mind our, uh... companion here."

Cryheart says, "Aye..friend, we shall head east."

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "No, it joo machination."

Speaking to Samfelt, Missoni says, "Yes, we are lending some aid."

Xorus says, "Do not worry, little goblin. We will let you lead us toward Thanatoph again soon."

Samfelt deeply asks, "Are you following a goblin?"

Tikba says, "We are currently leading you."

Samfelt glances about with a look of concern on his face.

Earthdiver says, "The goblin has offered us aid."

Dendum says, "Obviously are following Cryheart."

Leafiara amusedly says, "More like the other way around."

[Lower Dragonsclaw, Forest]

Pine cones are scattered about the ground here, knocked down by the movement of small animals through the trees and the wind that buffets this outlying section of the forest. You also see a velnalin, some light leather, a wooden shield and a wide dirt-covered trail.

Missoni says, "Mmm. More or less."

Speaking to Samfelt, Irval says, "Yes but one that could help us with the stone problem we are having. Stone being Illokian."

Cryheart says, "The campsite is in the trail."

Cryheart points at a wide dirt-covered trail.

Cryheart says, "There ye go."

Gutstorm offers Samfelt a bowl of thick steaming haggis.

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "Hot meal."

The goblin peeks out from the crowd and looks at the trail and quivers.

Samfelt deeply asks, "Yes. I'm familiar with this area. But why is there a goblin with you?"

Kelfyr says, "Hot is certainly a descriptor."

Samfelt accepts Gutstorm's thick steaming haggis.

Samfelt deeply asks, "Is this safe to eat?"

Samfelt peers quizzically at Gutstorm.

Earthdiver says, "The goblin has offered us a trade."

Leafiara says, "We're... investigating some claims he had."

Kelfyr says, "It's hot."

Speaking neutrally to Samfelt, Tikba says, "It is haggis."

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "Yep yep, gitter a whiff."

Speaking to Samfelt, Missoni says, "His brother is injured, and so we are lending some aid."

Cryheart says, "It should be safe."

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "Me only poison people me like."

The goblin says, "Nut these trees!"

Evia says, "Oh dear."

Cryheart says, "Aye, little friend."

Stormyrain says, "We should get along."

Dendum says, "Let us go to the other woods."

Speaking quietly to himself, Samfelt says, "Claims. Goblins. Strange town."

Samfelt shrugs.

Samfelt deeply exclaims, "Thanks for... whatever this is!"

Speaking to Samfelt, Stormyrain says, "Welcome to the Landing."

Leafiara murmurs, "Got that right."

Speaking mildly to Samfelt, Tikba agrees, "Yes."

Cryheart asks, "Ye know of a bell rininig in this part?"

Speaking to Samfelt, Irval says, "Elidal asked us to spare those that we could and this is one of the survivors of our assault on the forge."

Cryheart says, "Ringing."

Dendum asks, ""You are sure it was bell?"

Dendum asks, "Where did it go?"

Cryheart says, "Ok..Samfeltlook."

Speaking to Samfelt, Irval says, "Sometimes exceptions are made for the ...greater good."

Bellaja says, "I hope it isn't an anvil."

The faintest, faintest sound of a bell rings in the distance of Upper Trollfang.

Irval says, "The bell."

Speaking to Samfelt, Guarrin says, "I'll see if we can drop off some extra game at the camp."

Evia says, "Oh."

Samfelt deeply says, "Yes, I have heard a bell."

Wolfloner darkly says, "Upper trollfang."

Dendum says, "Troll Fang."

Samfelt deeply asks, "Perhaps we should go see what it is?"

Kayse flatly says, "We all heard it now."

Leafiara agrees, "Indeed, just heard one."

The goblin shouts, coughs, then shouts, "Bell!"

Speaking deeply to Kayse, Samfelt asks, "Did you?"

Cryheart says, "Ok we need to go...ye are safe on that trail to the camp."

Speaking to Samfelt, Guarrin says, "We? No."

Kelfyr says, "Southwest from here, then through the clearing."

Speaking to Samfelt, Kayse says, "I did, yes."

Cryheart says, "Trail, Samfelt."

Speaking to Samfelt, Guarrin says, "We'll investigate."

Cryheart removes Samfelt from the group.

Cryheart says, "Thanks and good luck."

Kiyna says, "I heard the bell, yes."

Samfelt deeply says, "Since I'm suppose to be out keeping an eye on things and hunting velnalin, I think it might be important for me to go look. Otherwise I'll have to see if the rest of the settlers want to see if we need to prepare defenses."

Samfelt deeply says, "I don't want to cause a stir if it's not a problem."

Cryheart says, "Ye can follow us."

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "Prepare de defensh, goot idea!"

The goblin shouts, coughs, then shouts, "Bell!"

The voice of Kayse indifferently says, "If he wishes to go, let him go. He's capable."

Nazarr says, "There's four velanin west of here."

Cryheart says, "Join or follow then."

Irval says, "Ive not a problem then...but you stay close. And you follow Cryheart's lead."

Samfelt joins Cryheart's group.

Bellaja says, "He's getting very agitated."

Leafiara says, "If we can protect a goblin, we can protect him. Let's just... hurry before whatever that is disappears."

Samfelt deeply says, "I'll just stand back here, behind some of you."

Leifa says, "I'd be agitated if my kin were lost in the woods, too."

Wolfloner darkly says, "Too far."

Evia says, "Well I wonder if Brudder just has his own little bell for some...goblinish reason."

Speaking to Samfelt, Missoni offers, "Perhaps I could cast some wards on you?"

Samfelt deeply says, "I'm not too bad with a sword! I've used one once or twice."

Speaking drunkenly to Leafiara, Gutstorm whispers aloud, "Dat Shamfelt he ish craffy, shee how he trick Cryheart inta comin?"

The goblin peeks out from the crowd and looks at the trail and quivers.

Cryheart says, "Too far."

Speaking to Samfelt, Perigourd says, "Your balance would be better without the haggis in hand."

Kayse urges, "We should keep moving."

Speaking to Samfelt, Stormyrain says, "Please do not pull your weapon unless instructed to."

Samfelt deeply asks, "Haggis. Oh this strange looking sandwich the dwarf gave me?"

Speaking to Samfelt, Irval asks, "Just be sure to not get yourself killed and once again. Follow Cryhearts lead. No heroics. Got it?"

Samfelt takes a bite of his thick steaming haggis.

Quilthaias whispers something to Kezoku.

Samfelt sniffs at his thick steaming haggis.

Kelfyr asks, "His brother is sick, let's see if we can move at a faster clip, eh?"

Speaking to Samfelt, Evia says, "That nasty thing in your hand? just bury it somewhere."

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "Not not sammich, dat intenshtinesh."

Cryheart asks, "Should I go southeast?"

The goblin pushes people in the crowd, "Bell! Bell!"

Cryheart says, "Friend."

Wolfloner darkly says, "No."

Speaking to Kelfyr, Bellaja says, "Indeed."

Samfelt deeply says, "Don't let me slow you down! If we need to hunt down a goblin, then we should go onward."

Samfelt deeply says, "Goblins are dangerous."

The goblin pushes people in the crowd, "Bell! Bell!"

Speaking to Samfelt, Stormyrain says, "We are not hunting the goblin."

Speaking to Cryheart, Kiyna says, "We need to move, please."

Speaking to Samfelt, Guarrin says, "We are not hunting anything."

Evia asks, "We must be getting close?"

Bellaja exclaims, "Ow!"

Speaking to Samfelt, Stormyrain says, "And you will keep your weapon sheathed unless asked to aid."

Kayse reasons, "We are technically looking for his brother, no?"

Speaking to Samfelt, Guarrin says, "In fact, best to put the sword down."

The faintest, faintest sound of a bell rings in the distance of Upper Trollfang.

Bellaja says, "That was my foot."

Evia says, "Yes."

The goblin shouts, coughs, then shouts, "Bell!"

Kayse considers, "Could be called hunting."

Nazarr says, "That was far off. We need to go back."

Kelfyr asks, "Perhaps up among the forest trolls?"

Samfelt deeply says, "There are too many trolls to go unarmed. I'm not too good with my fists."

Tikba says, "I think it must be further down the trail to Vornavis."

Kelfyr asks, "Near the entrance to the badlands?"

The sound of the bell grows louder, but still weak.

Tikba says, "Near where Gnul's cavern was."

Irval says, "Closer yet."

Kiyna offers Samfelt a short sword.

Bellaja asks, "Could the bell be..... buried?"

Kelfyr says, "There's a stand of trees almost due south."

Samfelt deeply says, "I'm Samfelt by the way. Nice to meet you. Some of you know me I think."

The sound of a bell rings out from a treetop in the distance.

Stormyrain mutters, "I am singing peace, he does not need a sword in hand."

Speaking to Samfelt, Dendum remarks, ""Yes you are that thief from the south."

Nazarr asks, "A treetop?"

Speaking to Samfelt, Guarrin asks, "We met a few weeks back, yes?"

Bellaja says, "Hmmm, no not buried."

Speaking to Samfelt, Missoni says, "Well met, once again."

Bellaja says, "There was an echo there."

Speaking to Samfelt, Evia says, "I have not met you, but greetings, my name is Evia."

Samfelt deeply says, "You do sing quite well."

Speaking to Stormyrain, Kiyna says, "Ehh, I suppose so. I forget you can do that."

Samfelt takes a bite of his thick steaming haggis.

Dead on Arrival

The goblin says, "Nut those trolls!" [forest trolls]

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "Ill nut em."

Speaking to Earthdiver, Bellaja says, "It seemed weak and distant. I think I'm still a little out of sort from being under the ground so long."

Tikba asks, "Different trolls?"

Leafiara considers, "Okay, so... hill trolls would be another area..."

The goblin says, "oh oh oh! cave, cave and trees. and bell!"

Ulfwine asks, "Danjirland trolls?"

Speaking to Earthdiver, Bellaja says, "The strangest dreams."

Wolfloner darkly asks, "Was there a swamp?"

Alosaka says, "There are hill trolls by the inn, and war trolls further on toward the Glatoph."

Earthdiver asks, "Oh?"

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "Oh me know where cave troll are."

Cryheart says, "Yep..around the Old Inn."

Leafiara concludes, "Cave trolls it is."

Kiyna asks, "Cave, huh?"

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "Danjiland."

The goblin says, "Close, close me thinks."

Missoni says, "Cave and trees...."

Speaking softly to Gutstorm, Quilthaias says, "Gotta learn ta take ya time."

Samfelt deeply exclaims, "A cave! That sounds even more dangerous!"

Evia says, "Aaah haaa."

Speaking reasonably to Samfelt, Missoni says, "It is out of the wind at least."

Samfelt nods in agreement.

Xorus says, "One might even call it danger land."

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "2 cave, and dere ish a structure over dere too."

The goblin says, "Old old place, burned up, burned p."

Ulfwine says, "North part of DANGER land, troll cave."

The goblin says, "No food inside."

Alosaka asks, "The inn?"

Evia says, "There is food in the inn.."

Samfelt deeply asks, "Who would build an inn out in this middle of a forest?"

Leifa asks, "Abandoned inn?"

Irval asks, "Evii's place?"

Samfelt takes a bite of his thick steaming haggis.

Speaking lightly to Samfelt, Tikba says, "That is why it is abandoned."

Samfelt gasps.

Cryheart asks, "North?"

Leafiara acknowledges, "I mean, friendly ghosts live in the inn."

Earthdiver says, "The trolls are having a good night."

Dendum says, "Hrmm there are caves to the east..."

Leafiara muses, "Well, by some definitions of 'live'."

Xorus says, "The inn was renovated twenty years ago."

Earthdiver says, "Feels like yesterday."

Evia asks, "OH...cave trolls? Those ones?"

Ulfwine says, "Shack northwest."

Ulfwine asks, "Maybe that is what he means?"

Irval says, "'platform too."

The goblin coughs, and a yellow sap like substance flies from his lips like spittle. He catches his breath, "Big tree, big tree."

Dendum says, "There are woods near here you can hear bells and drums and such walking them...."

Irval says, "Platform."

Samfelt casually observes his surroundings.

Stormyrain asks, "Are you alright?"

Cryheart asks, "Which way?"

Cryheart asks, "Big tree?"

Stormyrain says, "Did one of the healers look over our goblin friend? He seems..not well."

Leafiara asks, "Was the tree standing or fallen?"

Speaking to Stormyrain, Alosaka says, "That's... normal for goblins, I believe."

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "How we git here."

Speaking to Alosaka, Stormyrain asks, "All that coughing and ..yellow sap like spittle?"

The goblin says, "Big tall, big tall to sky."

Leafiara says, "Right then, standing."

Leifa whispers something to Kezoku.

Missoni curiously asks, "Is there a ladder up the tree?"

Arahnim asks, "Big platform on top goblin?"

The goblin nods at Missoni.

Missoni says, "That is northwest, then a bit south and southwesterly."

Samfelt deeply says, "A tree with a ladder! There can't be too many of those."

Guarrin says, "That is nearby."

Ulfwine says, "We're close."

[General] Nyaria thinks, "It surely quiet."

The voice of Thrassus asks, "Why are we following a goblin around?"

Cryheart asks, "South?"

Evia says, "Think there is a cave to our north a little."

Arahnim says, "South."

[Upper Trollfang]

Though several of the trees in this area are quite large, one in particular attracts your attention. It is a magnificent oak standing at least fifty feet taller and considerably larger in diameter than any of the surrounding trees. You also see a cave troll.

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "He got cookies."

Earthdiver says, "The goblin has offered us a trade."

[General] Saiteari thinks, "That is never a bad thing."

Cryheart says, "Here os the oak tree."

A cave troll mutters, "Gr'r'r'ra."

Samfelt peers quizzically at a cave troll.

Speaking to a cave troll, Evia says, "Shush."

Cryheart says, "There is an old shack southeast."

Cryheart asks, "Try that?"

Missoni says, "Perhaps if we climb the ladder."

Evia says, "He said cave...cave."

Cryheart says, "Oh."

The goblin looks at the ladder. "yes!"

Evia says, "Ooohh."

Arahnim says, "Ladder."

Earthdiver says, "Ok, up the ladder."

Samfelt takes a bite of his thick steaming haggis.

[Arboreal Platform]

This sturdy platform seems to have served as a vantage point for someone or something. From here is commanded a magnificent view of the surrounding countryside as well as a leafy alcove protected from spying eyes and silvery moon. You also see the sparking Dendum disk, the Meril disk, a bashful swamp spirit that is flying around, a frustrated wasteland spirit that is flying around, a tiny brick of seaweed and acantha, the repousse copper Perigourd disk raised in leafy designs, a pale yellow-skinned goblin that is lying down, the battered ladder leading down to the forest floor and a rusted iron bell.

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "Meril yoo shave him?"

Cryheart says, "Ahah."

Leafiara says, "Hmm."

Cryheart yells, "Climb ladder!"

Samfelt deeply exclaims, "Another goblin?!"

Meril says, "I can fortify his health a little."

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "Id him contagish?"

Evia says, "That must be brudder."

Speaking to Samfelt, Perigourd says, "Just one, so stay your blade."

Cryheart says, "Both sick."

[various people try casting spells like Purify Air or Undisease at the goblin]

Speaking to Samfelt, Perigourd says, "He's badly wounded already."

Missoni curiously asks, "Bert?"

Samfelt deeply says, "I don't have my sword out."

The scrawny goblin rushes over to the pale goblin and falls to his side. "Brodder! Brodder!"

Bellaja says, "Here's the bell."

Cryheart says, "They cannae harm us in their condition."

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "Remind me of Dwi."

Thrassus asks, "Are they plagued?"

Dendum says, "Can see resemblance."

The scrawny goblin shouts, "Brodder!"

Earthdiver says, "Perhaps spores from the tunnels."

Kiyna cautiously warns, "On your guard. If this was a trap, this is where it springs."

Ulfwine says, "Their coloring is a little . . . off."

The scrawny goblin shakes the other goblin briefly, but it does not move.

Earthdiver says, "Uh oh."

The scrawny goblin says, "Brodder?"

Thrassus says, "I've never seen one with yellow blotches like that."

Samfelt deeply asks, "Is it alive?"

The scrawny goblin shakes the other goblin briefly, but it does not move.

The scrawny goblin says, "Brod...er?"

Cryheart asks, "Can ye help the other goblin?"

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "Leafi kin ye help?"

Perigourd asks, "There may still be time, if he's in Lorminstra's favor?"

Speaking to Gutstorm, Leafiara says, "I tried..."

Meril says, "He is not beyond saving yet, I think, but we will need to find the reason for the illness."

Cryheart asks, "The pale one?"

Speaking in Guildspeak, Alosaka says something you don't understand.

The scrawny goblin sighs, and grabs the body of his brother, pulling it up into his lap, cradling him.

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "Mebbe dunk him in voln water?"

Tikba says, "Marlu has no interest, I fear."

[General] Annadelle thinks, "Oh, that's nice... Just picked a locked chest, went through 10 lockpicks, and inside was 2000 silver and a rusty doorknob.... -_-"

Earthdiver says, "Perhaps we are too late."

Speaking urgently to Meril, Missoni asks, "How can we discern that?"

The scrawny goblin scoots back, dragging his brother, and leans up against a branch and part of the platform.

Samfelt looks at Tikba with concern.

[General] Moaskoan asks, "But don't you feel more acomplished now?"

Mad Monsters

The scrawny goblin says, "Youse tried to hulp brodder..."

Irval says, "We are sorry goblin. We tried our best to get here in time."

[General] Xess thinks, "Look at the bright side, could have taken 20 lockpicks."

The scrawny goblin says, "..me thanks youse."

Cryheart says, "We tried."

[General] Annadelle thinks, "No. Losing 10 lockpicks wasn't worth the reward."

Earthdiver says, "It was his time, it seems."

Cryheart says, "Sorry."

Samfelt deeply says, "Could always join... no? Alright."

Speaking to a pale yellow-skinned goblin, Missoni murmurs, "I am sorry we could not."

Speaking to a scrawny yellow-spotted goblin, Evia asks, "Can we help you move him somewhere?"

The scrawny goblin coughs, yellow sappy liquid dripping from his nose.

Earthdiver says, "The void comes for us all."

Speaking to a pale yellow-skinned goblin, Ulfwine asks, ""How long have you been sick?"

The scrawny goblin says, "No, see whole wurld from hur."

The goblin points at the surrounding countryside beyond.

[General] Zaaldine asks, "You didn't think to stop after broke the 3rd one?"

Missoni warmly says, "It is a nice view."

Speaking to a scrawny yellow-spotted goblin, Irval asks, "How are you feeling though? are those yellow spots something new?"

The scrawny goblin says, "big black rock explode. zap us good. zap zap zap. yellow walls hurt us...."

[General] Annadelle thinks, "I did, but I figured if it was that difficult, there'd be better stuff in it."

Kelfyr asks, "The glowing fungus?"

Speaking to a pale yellow-skinned goblin, Dendum asks, ""Glowing yellow?"

Earthdiver says, "Yellow walls are often a poor color choice."

[General] Moaskoan thinks, "Nah, they spent all their money on a sweet lock."

The scrawny goblin says, "All mountain monsters mad...very very mad..."

[General] Zaaldine thinks, "Tough locks can have garbage, and easy ones can have treasures."

Gutstorm abruptly punches at a rusted iron bell!

Samfelt glances at Gutstorm.

Kiyna says, "The walls of lightning were blue, not yellow... must be the fungus, I imagine."

Speaking to a pale yellow-skinned goblin, Kayse asks, "Are you mad?"

Tikba asks, "When did this happen?"

Speaking darkly to a scrawny yellow-spotted goblin, Wolfloner asks, "Why are they mad?"

Speaking to Kiyna, Perigourd says, "The lichen, yes."

Speaking to Kiyna, Missoni says, "Yes, they were a bit glowy."

Cryheart says, "Aye."

Dendum says, "...we all walked by those walls."

Bellaja whispers something to Earthdiver.

Speaking deeply to Gutstorm, Samfelt says, "I'm not sure that is how a bell works."

Evia says, "Yellow walls."

The scrawny goblin says, "...not mad...but brodder miss war..."

The scrawny goblin says, "...will miss big war."

Samfelt frowns.

Earthdiver says, "Tell us of the big war."

Missoni curiously asks, "Big war?"

Samfelt stares at a scrawny yellow-spotted goblin.

Speaking to a pale yellow-skinned goblin, Kayse asks, "Big war...?"

Ulfwine says, "That is awful to hear."

The goblin coughs, a sap like substance leaking more from his nose.

Irval says, "Stay still now."

Irval says, "Im gonna try and stop the yellowness."

Samfelt deeply asks, "That is normal for a goblin, right?"

The scrawny goblin says, "Mountain monster mad...black rocks gone..."

Speaking to Samfelt, Perigourd says, "I do not believe so."

Speaking to Samfelt, Guarrin says, "We're far from normal."

Speaking to a pale yellow-skinned goblin, Kayse asks, "When are they going to attack again?"

Speaking to Samfelt, Guarrin says, "All of this."

Evia whispers to the group, "Sap in the sinus can only lead to, well...not gud."

Ulfwine says, "Anvils, the forges."

Leafiara says, "Ah, the anvils."

Earthdiver asks, "What kind of mountain monster is it?"

Thrassus says, "I assume Gnul plans a larger offensive across the region."

Kelfyr asks, "What does the mountain monster look like?"

Cryheart asks, "Gnul?"

Speaking darkly to a scrawny yellow-spotted goblin, Wolfloner asks, "You speak of Gnul?"

The scrawny goblin says, "Mes dies too, dunt I?"

Speaking to a pale yellow-skinned goblin, Perigourd says, "We all do, in our time."

Earthdiver says, "One day. Perhaps today, perhaps not."

Speaking to a pale yellow-skinned goblin, Missoni says, "If you can tell us more, we can perhaps prevent this from happening to others."

Evia says, "Don't know."

Tikba simply says, "Yes."

Speaking to a pale yellow-skinned goblin, Bellaja says, "We all do."

Meril says, "No one is beyond saving."

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "Go out fighting."

The goblin nods, as yellow sap seeps from the corners of his eyes like tears.

Speaking to a scrawny yellow-spotted goblin, Irval says, "Can try and help ease your passing. That way you and your brother can be together again."

Speaking in Guildspeak, Alosaka says something you don't understand.

Leifa says, "Yes, but look, it is very sick."

Speaking to a pale yellow-skinned goblin, Dendum says, ""Whatever was inside kin is now inside you....will travel together."

Speaking to a pale yellow-skinned goblin, Kayse asks, "When does Gnul plan to attack again?"

The scrawny goblin says, "Travel tugether sound gud...sound nice..."

Earthdiver says, "Perhaps this spore will help fight off the other spore."

Irval whispers to the group, "Im unable to cure what infects him."

Speaking in Guildspeak, Jouni says something you don't understand.

The goblin lifts up his fingers, trying to count.

Tikba mildly muses, "We, too, were in the cavern when the forges were destroyed."

Speaking to Kezoku, Leifa says, "The creature is clearly delirious."

[General] Whayle thinks, "Sometimes it be like that."

Samfelt deeply asks, "You went into the mountain?"

[General] Guennwhfar thinks, "The gids made calipers so you could check how tough a lock is."

Speaking darkly to Raelee, Wolfloner says, "If you want to hug the goblin it will be alright."

Speaking to Tikba, Dendum says, ""Or even those who left walked by the glowing walls."

Speaking to Leifa, Kezoku asks, "Compared to what precisely?"

Speaking to Samfelt, Perigourd says, "Many of us did, yes."

[General] Slapfu asks, "Was it in a dark room, by any chance?"

The scrawny goblin says, "War, war is then...brodder will miss it."

Tikba nods in agreement at Samfelt.

Ulfwine asks, "Everyone that went in is feeling okay, yes?"

Samfelt shivers.

[General] Annadelle thinks, "No. It was outside, room 300."

Speaking to a pale yellow-skinned goblin, Dendum asks, ""Two hands worth of fingers days?"

The scrawny goblin says, "The King with his gems. Big shiny gems."

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "No yeller boogersh here."

Evia says, "Oh."

Kayse says, "The plinite..."

Speaking quietly to Wolfloner, Raelee asks, "... what would that accomplish?"

Earthdiver says, "Does it look like this."

Irval asks, "Where is the king?"

The goblin nods to Earthdiver.

Speaking to a pale yellow-skinned goblin, Kayse asks, "How is the...King using this gems?"

Missoni murmurs, "Ten..."

Kayse corrects, "These gems."

The scrawny goblin says, "War, big war."

Earthdiver says, "The mountain king took our shiny gems."

Speaking to a pale yellow-skinned goblin, Kayse asks, "Do you know where he stores the gems?"

[General] Slapfu asks, "It's currently after midnight. I think that makes it dark outside?"

The scrawny goblin says, "No."

[General] Barnessa thinks, "I wouldn't know, I am the ultimate being... a bard."

Earthdiver says, "Maybe you could help us get them back."

The goblin counts all fingers on one hand, then all of his fingers on other hand.

Raelee asks, "Ten days then, young goblin?"

The scrawny goblin says, "War in ten fingers."

Guarrin asks, "Do you know where this war will start?"

Speaking to Raelee, Perigourd says, "Seems as much."

Speaking to a scrawny yellow-spotted goblin, Evia says, "Well done, good countin."

[General] Slapfu thinks, "'On a related note, I hope all the Clerics and Empaths out there are going around to all the pools and darkening them with Light -- to drum up business."

Missoni asks, "Do you know how he will use the gems?"

Raelee says, "With my plinite..."

Kayse says, "I asked that. He just said Big War."

The scrawny goblin begins to wheeze.

Irval says, "Stay with us now."

(OOC) Kayse's player whispers to the group, "HOW MANY FINGERS DOES A GOBLING HAVE?"

(OOC) Stormyrain's player whispers to the group, "LMAO."

Earthdiver says, "His hour grows late."

(OOC) Irval's player whispers to the group, "All of em?"

(OOC) Tikba's player whispers to the group, "I ALMOST ASKED THAT."

(OOC) Leafiara's player whisper to the group, "He just said ten."

(OOC) Bellaja's player whispers to the group, "I contemplated that myself."

Meril says, "While we have time yet, I would ask for the clerics here to offer a prayer of rebirth on their behalf."

Speaking darkly to Raelee, Wolfloner says, "If you showed the goblin compassion he might be more focused and straightforward. It will be alrigth if you want to hug him."

(OOC) Leafiara's player whispers to the group, "The scrawny goblin says, "War in ten fingers."."

(OOC) Kayse's player whispers to the group, "I was too busy stressing."

Leifa suggests, "Instead of quizzing the dying creature, perhaps we should get it to a medic."

Speaking to a scrawny yellow-spotted goblin, Evia says, "We are glad we got you back to your Brodder."

(OOC) Earthdiver's player whispers to the group, "Now going to Wiki creature to count fingers."

Speaking to Leifa, Stormyrain says, "There are several here."

Speaking to a pale yellow-skinned goblin, Kiyna asks, "Are you in pain?"

Speaking darkly to Raelee, Wolfloner says, "The gems he speaks of may be magic relics."

Guarrin says, "They have been trying to look after him."

Speaking to Leifa, Bellaja says, "I have prayed for his healing."

(OOC) Earthdiver's player whispers to the group, "Goblin has EIGHT fingers haha."

The scrawny goblin shifts his weight painfully, pulling his brother's body in closer, almost nuzzling him.

Speaking to Wolfloner, Kayse says, "He is speaking of the plinite they stole from the Outpost."

Speaking to a pale yellow-skinned goblin, Missoni asks, "Would you like someone to hole your hand?"

Missoni says, "Hold, that is."

Speaking quietly to a pale yellow-skinned goblin, Tikba says, "Do not fear."

(OOC) Bellaja's player whispers to the group, "Why not Missoni? You're already wearing his snot!"

Speaking quietly to a pale yellow-skinned goblin, Tikba says, "Ami'eda phu tayr, phu amyrana's en'elta."

(OOC) Missoni's player whispers to the group, "If I'm infected, damage is already done!"

The scrawny goblin says, "Mountain warriors mad...so mad...so King comes...ten fingers..."

Speaking calmly to a pale yellow-skinned goblin, Kiyna asks, "I don't want you to suffer. Do you want it to be over?"

Irval asks, "The king comes in ten risings of the sun?"

Speaking to a pale yellow-skinned goblin, Perigourd asks, "Not.. Reivers?"

Speaking quietly to a pale yellow-skinned goblin, Missoni says, "Thank you."

The scrawny goblin says, "...it does not hurt...jut....jut sleepy..."

Speaking quietly to a pale yellow-skinned goblin, Tikba says, "You should rest."

(OOC) Bellaja's player whispers to the group, "Make sure you report it for tracing."

Speaking to a scrawny yellow-spotted goblin, Evia says, "Hold Brodder and rest."

The scrawny goblin says, "...trees so far...many fingers far..."

The scrawny goblin looks up to the sky above the stretch of trees beyond.

The scrawny goblin says, "...wish could fly..."

Irval says, "Be a peace Goblin. Close your eyes and fly with brother."

Kelfyr says, "Rest well, brave goblin."

Meril recites:

"We are all of us Mother Imaera's children, and hers was the gift of life to the mortal peoples.

May she intercede with this winter for the souls of the weary."

Kayse lightly says, "Makes two of us."

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "Dey gotta catapult in river resht..."

Samfelt works his fingers under his kidskin hat and scratches his head.

(OOC) Cryheart's player whispers to the group, "Rub does not work."

Speaking darkly to Cryheart, Wolfloner asks, "You ill?"

(OOC) Kayse's player whispers to the group, "GOTTA ARR PEE THAT RUB."

(OOC) Dendum's player whispers to the group, "Well it does if you want to look hungry and the goblin is your next meal."

Yellow sap continues to eek from the goblin's eyes, then ears, and slowly fills its mouth like crystalline syrup.

Speaking in Aelotian to a pale yellow-skinned goblin, Tikba says something you don't understand.

Samfelt deeply says, "I'd be careful. If that goblin is sick and dies, any of us could be next."

Kayse slowly asks, "What could be causing that?"

Kiyna says, "We need to try to get back into those tunnels. If the lichen contained some kind of toxin, we could get samples to understand it better."

Earthdiver says, "We were guessing spores."

Ulfwine says, "Well let's all touch it and find out."

Earthdiver says, "But."

The goblin tries to speak, but his voice is muffled, and he just shrugs.

Speaking to Ulfwine, Stormyrain says, "You first."

Speaking to Ulfwine, Kayse says, "We were already all done there."

Kayse corrects, "Down."

Stormyrain offers, "Not all."

Speaking kindly to a pale yellow-skinned goblin, Missoni says, "Just rest now."

Speaking to a scrawny yellow-spotted goblin, Evia says, "Its alright, lean back and rest easy."

Stormyrain says, "So if you all begin to fall, we will know."

Wolfloner darkly says, "Gnul seems to be willing to goto any lengths to harm."

Ulfwine says, "True, I would have expected to show symptoms if these two are already."

The goblin leans his head back, holding his brother, and closes his eyes.

Dendum says, "Hrmm well...these lived down there a long time....was either the length of stay that made them sick...or something that happened during the attack."

Tikba says, "They have been living in the cavern with the fungus for who knows how long."

Tikba says, "We were only there for one night."

Speaking to Tikba, Dendum says, ""If it was the attack....was good trap."

Cryheart says, "Ye put up a good fight."

Evia says, "Me thinks he is gone, or very nearly."

Wolfloner darkly says, "Assuming he has the strategic sense to do so. Perhaps plague is his next move."

Kelfyr says, "One wonders if burning the lichen might have exacerbated the spread."

Kiyna says, "The above-ground entrance is probably collapsed by now. Maybe we can get one more trip from the Badger out of Amos."

Tikba says, "Our kobolds were there first, and longer."

Speaking darkly to Raelee, Wolfloner asks, "You think the goblin is contagious?"

Speaking to Samfelt, Dendum asks, ""How is the Sablo?"

A weak rattle resonates from the goblin's throat.

Pondering the Situation

Earthdiver says, "The air seemed fresh and clean. Or at least as fresh and clean given the circumstances."

Speaking drunkenly to Thrassus, Gutstorm slurs, "Not contagish."

Speaking to Wolfloner, Raelee says, "It is possible."

Speaking darkly to Raelee, Wolfloner says, "Perhaps better you not hug him then."

Tikba says, "We should leave here."

Kayse says, "As I said the other evening when we discussed using a toxin to make them evacuate the tunnels, dosage and other factors weigh in to determine effects."

Thrassus says, "I think I shall be leaving this mask on for a while."

Irval says, "We should get a sample of the sickness."

Irval says, "In case it spreads to our population."

Leifa says, "It's on that lady's skirt."

Speaking darkly to Irval, Wolfloner asks, "You know how to do that?"

Speaking to Irval, Kiyna says, "Yes, I already suggested as much."

Evia says, "Magister Svala can study it I believe."

Speaking uncertainly to Missoni, Tikba asks, "Is that an expensive gown?"

Raelee says, "I have every intention of doing so."

Irval says, "Well here's a jar."

Speaking dismissively to Tikba, Missoni says, "Nothing that cannot be laundered."

Kiyna says, "I know how to collect samples. I work with poison frequently."

Irval says, "Oops."

Samfelt deeply says, "Do you think this goblin can tell you anything else? I don't think it has much time."

Leafiara says, "I think he's already gone, frankly."

Ulfwine says, "Get some of its goo in a jar."

Speaking to Samfelt, Kiyna says, "If he's not already gone, we should let him rest."

Speaking to Samfelt, Missoni says, "I think he is beyond the ability to speak."

Tikba repeats, "We should leave here, with Samfelt."

Samfelt deeply asks, "What did it mean by a big war?"

Tikba says, "After all, he must return to camp, with the other settlers."

Irval says, "Anyone have a knife or something we can scrap some of it off him and put it in the jar."

Speaking to Samfelt, Kiyna says, "It means Gnul isn't happy."

Speaking to Samfelt, Kezoku says, "He must have some insight on enemy movements we don't."

Speaking to Samfelt, Guarrin says, "Nothing good."

Cryheart says, "The Landing has been attacked at times."

Leafiara says, "The context seemed like he thinks of a 'war' in the way we think of a 'battle'."

Missoni murmurs, "I wonder if goblins have a burial tradition."

Speaking to Samfelt, Ulfwine says, ""The same thing that you experienced coming up here, more of the same."

Samfelt deeply asks, "The caravan I was with was attacked by stone trolls and giants. Does it mean more of those are coming?"

Cryheart says, "Gnul is the leader it seems."

Speaking simply to Samfelt, Tikba says, "Yes."

Speaking to Samfelt, Guarrin says, "Or something else."

Thrassus says, "A quarantine plan should be drawn up in case this spreads to the general populace."

Ulfwine says, "Something worse, even."

Speaking to Samfelt, Evia says, "Perhaps even worse than those, I'm afraid."

Leafiara says, "So a big battle in ten nights, likely involving the plinite somehow."

Cryheart says, "If any of ye feels symptoms then speak out during the next few days."

Speaking to Raelee, Tikba asks, "Do you have your sample, Magister?"

Wolfloner darkly says, "Assuming the goblin is correct. That would imply war on a much longer scale than what has occurred recently."

Xorus says, "Plinite and contagions. Gnul is stealing all of our best moves."

Thrassus says, "Hopefully for folk that went down to the forges it takes extended exposure to cause infection."

Perigourd says, "Yes."

Speaking to Missoni, Perigourd says, "I do."

Wolfloner darkly says, "Larger scale too."

Speaking to Tikba, Raelee says, "... taking the entire body back would be better."

Samfelt deeply asks, "Maybe we should warn Commander Sablo. He will want to know, won't he?"

Dendum asks, "Who set the moss on fire?"

Speaking to Thrassus, Ulfwine says, ""Let us hope so."

Speaking to Samfelt, Guarrin says, "Yes, Commander. Lord Elidal."

Speaking diplomatically to Raelee, Tikba says, "I worry about its safety."

Speaking darkly to Raelee, Wolfloner asks, "You are suggesting it be animated?"

Speaking to Guarrin, Stormyrain offers, "The Mayor as well."

Speaking to Missoni, Perigourd says, "He likely never sent an envoy."

Cryheart asks, "Ye got your samples?"

Speaking to Wolfloner, Raelee says, "No. I am not."

Cryheart says, "I think we should nae stay here much longer."

Raelee says, "To animate it would alter the state of the body and add additional variables to the analysis."

Irval asks, "Didnt the goblin mention that he had another brother that was hurt badly got up and walked away after much blood was spilled?"

Speaking hesitantly to Perigourd, Missoni says, "We should ask again."

Samfelt deeply says, "Oh, I have not met Lord Elidal yet. I've been busy working to help with the campsite since I recovered from my injury."

Speaking darkly to Raelee, Wolfloner asks, "You want someone to carry it?"

Speaking slowly to Irval, Stormyrain says, "From the description I believe that one may have died and been re-animated."

Speaking to Wolfloner, Raelee states, "Yes."

Speaking curiously to Samfelt, Missoni asks, "But you have met Commander Sablo?"

Meril says, "There are many who are incapacitated during a battle who may walk after, without a hint of necromancy."

Irval says, "Still I dont think we should take any chances. So shall we collect this contagion or leave it to someonemore capable. Im not really in the mood to catch something I myself cannot cure."

Yellow sap begins to seep out of the frozen eyes of the pale yellow-skinned goblin.

Samfelt deeply says, "I've seen him give orders and as much to get things done. I have not had a conversation directly with him."

Speaking to Cryheart, Stormyrain asks, "Are we staying here for any purpose?"

Cryheart says, "Ok..let's go."

Cryheart says, "Down the ladder."

Bellaja asks, "Should we burn these bodies?"

Earthdiver says, "It's quite lovely in this tree."

Leifa asks, "Is it mutating?"

Dendum says, "Well on bright side....whatever this is does not seem to cause anger or feral behavior...just the death."

Xorus says, "It said it wanted to fly."

Samfelt deeply says, "They are goblins. Leave them for the birds."

Speaking darkly to Raelee, Wolfloner asks, "The Hendoran Outpost, or the camp?"

Evia says, "It said it wished it COULD fly."

Speaking to Samfelt, Perigourd says, "One shouldn't treat a foe who has been honorable as such."

Cryheart says, "Can we fog from here."

Guarrin says, "I would suggest burning them."

Speaking deeply to Perigourd, Samfelt says, "That is what would happen anyway."

Cryheart says, "Fire em up."

Leafiara asks, "We're considering the possibility that contagion was spread by fire in the first place, so burning the bodies might not be the best idea?"

Speaking to Samfelt, Raelee says, "We do not understand what killed them. Study is the next logical step."

Odd Decay

The first goblin's skin begins to sink inward.

Guarrin asks, "Spread by fire?"

Samfelt glances at a pale yellow-skinned goblin.

Dendum says, "We are in TREE on top of TREE do not light up the golbins."

Earthdiver says, "It's quite lovely in this tree."

Speaking to Guarrin, Leafiara says, "I forget who proposed that thought, but someone was raising the possibility before."

Evia says, "They are rapidly decaying."

Meril says, "We may not have the chance to take them anywhere, anyway."

Thrassus says, "Well, that's unusual."

(OOC) Leifa's player whispers to the group, "Is this storyline merging into a rendition of Last of Us?"

Leafiara says, "Seems they're decaying quickly anyway..."

Bellaja says, "I don't think any of us are daft enough to burn them up here."

Samfelt deeply says, "Might be best if birds don't eat them, on second thought."

(OOC) Dendum's player whispers to the group, "I hope so...clickers for all."

Irval says, "I'll set them aflame."

Irval says, "Stand back."

Speaking to Irval, Kiyna says, "Were you listening? We're in a tree."

Irval says, "Im a good shot."

Speaking to Irval, Raelee says, "... if you set them aflame in a tree that we are all standing in, neither the fire nor gravity will be kind to us."

Samfelt deeply says, "I am not sure starting a up in a tree is the best idea. But you can, I guess."

Samfelt deeply says, "Starting a fire, that is."

Leafiara says, "So we'd have to move them to burn them, but we don't want to move them in case their bodies are contagious."

Leafiara reasons, "In other words, let's go."

The first goblin's hand peels open, the pale yellow skin cracking like a husk as yellow sap spills outward like jelly then hardens in the cold. A moment later, the sap grows brittle and breaks apart.

Missoni murmurs, "If the Magister is arguing against fire, one can be sure it is not the best option."

Samfelt cringes.

Bellaja says, "I didn't live through the things I have to be..."

Bellaja says, "Fascinating."

Samfelt deeply exclaims, "What is happening to it?!"

Samfelt screams!

Thrassus says, "Well, that's definately unusual."

Speaking to Missoni, Perigourd says, "There is.. that other experiement."

Raelee observes, "It is a very rapid reaction."

Leifa states, "It's mutating."

Earthdiver says, "Perhaps something is growing inside."

Irval asks, "Someone got something I can put this in?"

Speaking to Perigourd, Missoni says, "It may be best not to take it close to a populated area. We do not know what that substance will do."

Thrassus asks, "Was this substance visible in the forge areas?"

Speaking to Irval, Raelee asks, "Did Gutstorm not leave that behind?"

Earthdiver says, "Oh, that was my spore."

Bellaja says, "I'm not going to breathe it."

Irval drops a mottled light brown spore.

Wolfloner darkly asks, "Anyone have a backpack big enough to carry one of the goblins?"

Speaking to Thrassus, Missoni says, "There was glowing lichen on the walls."

The first goblin's body, cradling in the lap of the second goblin, soon cracks and peels, the skin shedding off like a serpent as the yellow goop spills outward, before crystalizing and shattering.

Speaking uncertainly to Earthdiver, Leafiara asks, "Aren't those the explosive spores?" [from auction-quality mushrooms that make three per day]

Speaking to Thrassus, Missoni says, "Whether that is the same as this..."

Thrassus says, "Do not carry them into town."

Leifa says, "I have another jar if someone actually wants to touch that horrible substance."

Kezoku says, "Don't touch that."

Bellaja says, "They're... almost gone."

Thrassus says, "Or anywhere else for that matter."

Leafiara says, "Bizarre."

Emperia says, "Disgusting..."

Missoni says, "I do not think they will make the journey..."

Irval says, "I guess no need for fires if they break down like that."

Bellaja says, "Eww. It's on that acorn."

Earthdiver says, "There. Sample attained."

Speaking darkly to Thrassus, Wolfloner says, "They cannot be studied in town. The bodies must be delivered to the outpost."

Thrassus says, "Or there. We do not want the contagion to spread."

Speaking to Meril, Bellaja says, "Well done."

Leafiara says, "At this rate there won't be a body in two minutes anyway."

Nyaria quietly says, "Im not sure they will make it that far."

Speaking darkly to Raelee, Wolfloner asks, "The Hendoran Outpost?"

Raelee says, "Wolf ... they will not be bodies long enough for transport. This decomposition is too rapid."

The final goblin, head still resting against the platform, eyes closed, begins the first phase of decay. Its neck cracks open, as if a second mouth tears into existence within the folds of its scrawny throat. Yellow liquid seeps out and down its chest, before crystallizing and crumbling.

Speaking darkly to Raelee, Wolfloner says, "Very well."

Irval says, "Oh thats graphic."

Samfelt clasps his hand over his mouth.

Speaking to Raelee, Bellaja asks, "Have you ever seen anything ilke it?"

Leafiara says, "Well, that was... something."

Samfelt turns around.

The voice of Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "Raelee kind ye freeze him wit a block of ice?"

Speaking to Samfelt, Kiyna says, "You don't have to be here, friend."

Earthdiver says, "Nice. Maybe we can call it the Yellow Rot."

Leifa says, "I use spells that rot creatures using spores from the outside in and I tell you, this is not the same."

Speaking to Bellaja, Raelee admits, "No."

Speaking wryly to Samfelt, Leafiara says, "You know, earlier I thought people were being really pushy toward you, but on second thought, maybe they were right you should have returned to the camp."

Speaking to Raelee, Thrassus says, "This location should be kept under observation, I should think."

Speaking to Thrassus, Raelee says, "Agreed."

Tikba neutrally asks, "You have decided to remain with the diseased bodies?"

Kezoku says, "What bodies."

Speaking to Raelee, Bellaja says, "Me either and that's saying something..."

Speaking darkly to Raelee, Wolfloner asks, "What would you suggest since recovery is not an option?"

Speaking to Tikba, Missoni says, "They are decaying rather curiously."

Irval says, "Its breaking down in a most disturbing fashion."

Samfelt shudders and with a sudden heave of his abdomen, releases the contents of his stomach down the ladder.

Earthdiver says, "Hmm."

A pained expression crosses Samfelt's face.

Irval yells, "Look out below!"

Earthdiver says, "I hope you looked down first."

Kayse yells, "Watch out below!"

Speaking to Samfelt, Dendum says, ""Could still be knights down there."

Samfelt deeply exclaims, "That is disgusting!"

Speaking to Wolfloner, Raelee says, "Learn what we can in the moment and collect samples."

Speaking to Samfelt, Tikba says, "Please take my hand, sir."

Xorus says, "Reminds me a little of Rysus. But the color is all wrong."

Speaking to Dendum, Leafiara murmurs, "Well, that's their problem."

The goblin's torso sinks inward like hungry quicksand, the very flesh almost churning as bone is replaced with gooey sap. The chest caves in completely, and with no support, the goblin's head rolls forward, before the body decays entirely.

[Arboreal Platform]

This sturdy platform seems to have served as a vantage point for someone or something. From here is commanded a magnificent view of the surrounding countryside as well as a leafy alcove protected from spying eyes and silvery moon. You also see a frustrated wasteland spirit that is flying around, the sparking Dendum disk, a black arrow, a mottled light brown spore, a tumbler of Woodland Green whiskey, a melancholy mountain spirit that is flying around, the glossy pink Nyaria disk shaped like a jellyfish, a tumbler of Woodland Green whiskey, some acantha leaf, a sinuous bone white serpent, a fluffy white cat, the Emperia disk, an inlaid leather grimoire soaring around with its gilt-swept ethereal violet pinions, the Bellaja disk, the bloodstained Xorus disk with scuffed and dented sides, a frost-covered yellow-eyed silvery lor mandrake with a large acorn on it, a lazy wild dark crimson dog, the web-draped Missoni disk, the palm frond-shaped Leafiara disk, the Meril disk, a tiny brick of seaweed and acantha, the repousse copper Perigourd disk raised in leafy designs, the battered ladder leading down to the forest floor and a rusted iron bell.

Samfelt deeply says, "There is another spore."

Speaking to herself, Leafiara notes, "Not going back down until after he does."

Kiyna says, "Well, that was unpleasant."

Samfelt points at a mottled light brown spore.

Kiyna picks up a mottled light brown spore.

Thrassus says, "This definately is not a natural ailment."

Kiyna asks, "Wasn't this from Earthdiver?"

Irval says, "Not sure that is the spore your looking for."

Earthdiver nods at Kiyna.

Speaking mildly to Samfelt, Tikba asks, "Is it your desire to destroy the Barony of Darkstone?"

Earthdiver says, "That's my spore. Yep."

Kiyna offers Earthdiver a mottled light brown spore.

Earthdiver accepts Kiyna's light brown spore.

Speaking deeply to Kiyna, Samfelt says, "I didn't mean you should pick it... too late I guess."

Meril says, "The magisters and the empath guild will both see if we can find some cause or antidote, but we may not have much time."

Samfelt peers quizzically at Earthdiver.

Earthdiver peers quizzically at Samfelt.

Samfelt deeply asks, "Why are you leaving spores all over?"

Earthdiver says, "It's from my pet mushroom."

Leafiara says, "Those spores are explosive ones produced by certain mushrooms. I have one myself... somewhere, so I know the look."

Speaking to Meril, Raelee observes, "It is very effective."

Speaking to Tikba, Dendum says, ""We should have asked the goblin how long yellow wall had been yellow."

Speaking to Meril, Missoni says, "Thank you for doing what you could."

Speaking to Meril, Bellaja says, "Indeed. Please be careful."

Meril says, "We might also send word to the dwarven clans, being that this seems related to some underground lichen."

Earthdiver says, "Mushroom's gotta breed."

Speaking to Meril, Leafiara says, "Good idea."

Leifa says, "This is not safe to breathe, you're right."

Speaking to Raelee, Perigourd says, "One would have to know how long their exposure was, though."

Tikba shortly says, "Yes, it is not."

Speaking to Raelee, Perigourd says, "The lichen seemed to have an increased effect as well moving closer to it."

Speaking curiously to Raelee, Kayse asks, "Did we get any samples of lichen from the tunnels?"

Speaking to Kayse, Raelee says, "The need was not evident at the time."

Samfelt deeply asks, "The goblin said something about an explosion. Was there an explosion when you were in the mountain?"

Speaking to Samfelt, Perigourd says, "Not that I recall."

Speaking darkly to Kayse, Wolfloner asks, "You think that our next move?"

Speaking to Kayse, Kiyna says, "I was suggesting earlier that we might get one more trip out of Amos with the Badger. If we wanted to study the lichen."

Raelee says, "Explosion."

Missoni hesitantly says, "There was...fire, before we left."

Earthdiver says, "The ceiling was starting to fall apart."

Tikba says, "We destroyed the forges."

Dendum asks, "Who started fire?"

Speaking to Wolfloner, Kayse says, "I don't think we have a next move yet."

Leafiara says, "Well... if there was an explosion, we might not have felt it. Lots of tremors though, so there very well could have been."

Speaking to Missoni, Perigourd asks, "When?"

Raelee slowly asks, "... if it was not us, has Gnul been experimenting with my... the plinite?"

Speaking to Dendum, Leafiara says, "Sablo started setting fire to the vegetation just before we left."

Speaking to Perigourd, Missoni says, "Commander Sablo, before we could reach him."

Speaking to Raelee, Thrassus says, "Possible, but it would be rather soon to get these kind of results."

Speaking darkly to Leafiara, Wolfloner asks, "He is impulsive is he not?"

Speaking to Samfelt, Bellaja says, "Well, we dug through the ground into a maze of tunnels and forges."

Speaking to Leafiara, Dendum says, ""Then look to Sablo see if he shows any of these yellow signs....fire could of disturbed something...or maybe it was explosion after everyone escaped...this would be best..."

Speaking wryly to Wolfloner, Leafiara says, "Something like that."

Xorus says, "I recall Lana bled and fell apart in similar rapid fashion, though it was black blood, which seemed to involve some plinite experimentation in her."

Speaking concernedly to Dendum, Leafiara mutters, "Didn't even think of that."

Speaking to Leafiara, Dendum says, ""Eh, my people no longer live in caves for reason."

Speaking to Xorus, Raelee says, "It is a reasonable assumption that Gnul may not have been entirely prepared to employ the plinite without some experimentation. Experimentation will have... consequences."

Kiyna says, "Either way, we should be careful. We may have an unknown toxin on our hands. Again."

Earthdiver says, "The yellow lichen was very bright...very energetic. Perhaps something went awry."

Speaking to Kiyna, Tikba says, "Literally."

Earthdiver asks, "But given that it was all over the walls, it seems unlikely that it was intentional?"

Speaking to Earthdiver, Kiyna says, "Possibly."

Speaking to Samfelt, Perigourd asks, "Do you need an escort back to the camp?"

Samfelt deeply says, "Sounded like whoever this Gnul is wants to start an even bigger fight than what is going on."

Speaking worriedly to Raelee, Missoni says, "I hope he is not experimenting on these poor creatures."

Earthdiver says, "It looked like they were just using it for lighting."

Speaking to Missoni, Raelee says, "It may be a case of incidental exposure."

Earthdiver says, "So my guess is accidental poisoning."

Thrassus says, "He has repeatedly mentioned conquering more than this region."

Earthdiver says, "Low safety standards and all."

Samfelt deeply says, "I still need some velnalin for tomorrow's stew."

Speaking to Samfelt, Perigourd says, "Than perhaps we can help you acquire some."

Speaking to Samfelt, Irval says, "I can help you with that."

Speaking to Samfelt, Bellaja says, "Best of luck."

Samfelt deeply says, "It is a bit difficult to think about food right now though."

Missoni says, "It is the least we could do, for..."

Speaking affably to Samfelt, Leafiara says, "Well, good luck eating after, uh... you lost your last meal."

Earthdiver says, "It looks like you need a refill."

Samfelt deeply says, "Someone else is cooking it, I just need to hunt some down."

Irval says, "I can shank them for you."

Samfelt deeply says, "I could certainly use some help finding the way back to the camp."

Dendum removes a great brown bear shank from in his emerald wool cloak.

Dendum offers Samfelt a great brown bear shank.

Speaking to Samfelt, Dendum says, "Fresh from below."

Speaking to Samfelt, Bellaja says, "It's something none of us will forget soon, for sure."

Samfelt deeply asks, "You keep that in your cloak?"

Samfelt peers quizzically at Dendum.

Samfelt accepts Dendum's bear shank.

Earthdiver offers Samfelt some chunks of plump squirrel meat.

Earthdiver says, "For the pot."

Speaking neutrally to Samfelt, Kayse says, "I am sure one of us can assist you."

Samfelt deeply says, "I am not sure this is fresh."

Speaking to Samfelt, Dendum says, ""Err...just killed the bear...three minutes ago."

Tikba says, "It is fresh."

Samfelt peers quizzically at Dendum.

Samfelt declines Earthdiver's offer.

Tikba mildly says, "We killed the bear while waiting for you."

Tikba says, "So it is not as fresh as it could be."

Samfelt deeply says, "I'm not feeding anyone squirrel unless we are starving. We aren't kobolds."

Earthdiver says, "Well."

Dendum says, "Well if three minute shank is not fresh enough....good luck finding bear willing to walk into pot at camp site."

Wolfloner darkly asks, "How long ago was the raid to destroy the forge?"

Earthdiver says, "You can be picky when it starts snowing more, I suppose."

Leafiara says, "I mean, they serve raccoon of all things in the Hendoran outpost."

Bellaja says, "Four nights."

Samfelt glances at the battered ladder leading down to the forest floor.

Missoni remarks, "One eats what is available."

Speaking darkly to Raelee, Wolfloner says, "Four days."

Wolfloner darkly says, "Not much time is it."

Speaking to Tikba, Dendum remarks, ""Next time will just bring him live bear....let the bear eat."

Speaking to Samfelt, Perigourd says, "Come, I'll take you back to the camp and we can find a velnalin on the way for your stew."

Samfelt deeply says, "I don't have anything to carry this in. I wasn't expecting to be this far from the camp."

Samfelt offers Dendum a great brown bear shank.

Dendum accepts Samfelt's bear shank.

Samfelt deeply asks, "Can you hold that?"

Speaking to Wolfloner, Raelee says, "That is operating under the assumption that our attack is the root of this."

Speaking wryly to Samfelt, Leafiara says, "You're the one who wanted to come along."

Bellaja says, "Let's get him back."

Speaking to Wolfloner, Raelee says, "And I am growing to believe this is a case of correlation, not causation."

Samfelt deeply exclaims, "I am getting out of this tree. Those goblins were cursed!"

Samfelt just climbed down the ladder to the forest floor below.

Bellaja says, "Or closer, anyhow."

[Upper Trollfang]

Though several of the trees in this area are quite large, one in particular attracts your attention. It is a magnificent oak standing at least fifty feet taller and considerably larger in diameter than any of the surrounding trees. You also see the Bellaja disk, the Emperia disk, the repousse copper Perigourd disk raised in leafy designs, the sparking Dendum disk, an inlaid leather grimoire soaring around with its gilt-swept ethereal violet pinions, the web-draped Missoni disk, a lazy wild dark crimson dog, a frost-covered yellow-eyed silvery lor mandrake with a large acorn on it and a resplendent obsidian black raven that is flying around.

Samfelt nods at Kayse.

Samfelt joins Kayse's group.

Leafiara recites:

"Everyone join Kayse!"

Samfelt deeply asks, "You don't mind if I'm armed now, do you?"

Samfelt removes a short sword from in his leather axe frog.

Speaking to Samfelt, Kayse says, "I do not."

Leafiara says, "I didn't mind before either."

Speaking to Samfelt, Bellaja says, "We all are as well."

Speaking amusedly to Kayse, Kiyna says, "You're the leader now, it seems."

Leafiara says, "No idea why others were so concerned."

Earthdiver says, "I have two arms."

Speaking to Samfelt, Kayse says, "I have five daggers on me, I won't fault you for holding one."

The voice of Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "Stormy worried ye might shtick da pointy end in her."

Earthdiver says, "Oh, three."

Speaking to himself, Dendum says, ""Not fresh..."

Speaking to Samfelt, Bellaja says, "Too many dangers."

Speaking darkly to Raelee, Wolfloner says, "Assuming the worst. Four days is not much time."

Speaking to Kayse, Perigourd asks, "Only five?"

Samfelt flatly says, "It's a sword."

Speaking to Samfelt, Kayse says, "It has a blade."

Kayse stares at Samfelt.

[travel]

Tikba mildly says, "It is a little short for a sword."

Earthdiver tosses his light brown spore onto the ground, which skids a few feet before skidding to a stop. A single wave of deep, crimson flames and acrid smoke radiates from the exploding spore and ripples along the ground towards a hill troll...

A hill troll is struck by the wave of fire!

... 35 points of damage!

Right leg horribly scorched. Won't be usable for weeks.

A hill troll screams and falls to the ground grasping her mangled right leg!

The hill troll is stunned!

The hill troll howls in agony as the flames dance over her body!

... 45 points of damage!

Left leg completely charred.

Wisps of black smoke swirl around a hill troll and she bursts into flame!

The flames around the troll continue to burn!

The fiery, crimson wave radiates outward from the troll and towards a hill troll.

A hill troll is struck by the wave of fire!

... 40 points of damage!

Left leg burned off at the knee. Ouch.

A hill troll screams and falls to the ground grasping his mangled left leg!

The hill troll is stunned!

The hill troll howls in agony as the flames dance over his body!

... 50 points of damage!

Unbelievable heat melts a hill troll's hand down to the wrist.

The troll's spear falls to the ground.

Wisps of black smoke swirl around a hill troll and he bursts into flame!

The flames around the troll continue to burn!

The remaining portions of the light brown spore crumble away into a fine golden powder.

[just wanted to demonstrate for people who haven't seen these]

Dendum says, "Seems perfectly fine size for sword."

Kiyna says, "I've four daggers, three swords, a crossbow, and a hand pylon. I am fairly well-armed."

Irval says, "Thats not what she said."

Tikba amusedly says, "I have only my faith to protect me."

The voice of Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "We go shenic route?"

Dendum offers Samfelt a great brown bear shank.

Speaking to Tikba, Kiyna says, "Not what I would go with."

Kayse says, "Yes."

Speaking to Samfelt, Dendum says, ""Now it is four minute old shank."

Samfelt deeply says, "I did find it on the body of a kobold."

Samfelt deeply says, "One had been killed by an archer."

Earthdiver says, "Sometimes they fall on their own swords."

Leafiara agrees, "They do indeed."

Tikba mildly says, "It is impolite to take items from another's kill."

Irval says, "Towers often let their kills rot to be fair."

Samfelt deeply says, "I think tonight's been a bit much for any sort of hunting. Hopefully that bear meat wiill do."

Samfelt nods at Dendum.

Dendum offers Samfelt a great brown bear shank.

Samfelt accepts Dendum's bear shank.

Samfelt deeply says, "Thank you."

Speaking diplomatically to Samfelt, Kayse asks, "Is there anything else you need?"

Speaking to Samfelt, Bellaja says, "The giantkin say it's tough, so cook it a long time."

Samfelt deeply says, "I've never tried bear stew. I hear they make soup of a bear fat, far to the north."

Samfelt deeply asks, "Is that any good?"

Dendum says, "Ehh...that is polar bear fat...much worse tasting."

Speaking to Samfelt, Bellaja says, "Yes. In Icemule."

Thrassus says, "Seal fat as well."

The voice of Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "Helga make a mean Shtew."

Samfelt deeply says, "I'm originally from Vornavis, myself."

Speaking to Samfelt, Bellaja says, "Not so good as what you'd think."

Kiyna says, "Helga's stew -is- mean, I'll grant you that."

Earthdiver offers Samfelt some whale blubber toast.

Earthdiver exclaims, "Try some of this!"

Earthdiver says, "It's actually quite nice."

Speaking to Samfelt, Raelee asks, "What ever drives you to leave Vornavis for this?"

Dendum says, "...probably constable."

Samfelt deeply says, "Caught wind of a caravan leaving town and coming to a new barony. Figured it was a good time to get a new start. Vornavis is a big town, and I didn't feel right there."

Samfelt shrugs.

Evia says, "Desecrating both whale and toast in one fell swoop."

Speaking mildly to Samfelt, Kayse says, "Nothing wrong with a fresh start."

Earthdiver says, "Underappreciated foodstuffs."

Speaking to Samfelt, Bellaja asks, "Why didn't you feel right there?"

Tikba asks, "Is there no concern that the goblins may have been contagious?"

Samfelt deeply says, "Locksmith by trade, but I did the odd jobs too. Sometimes the nobles would need an heirloom tracked down, or their snotty kid would go off trying to be a hero and get lost."

The voice of Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "Yoo got yelow goop comin out yoo ear Tikba."

Speaking to Tikba, Leafiara reasons, "If they were, it's probably a bit too late to be concerned since we were with him for... what, an hour?"

Emperia says, "There is not much we can do about that now..."

Speaking to Tikba, Meril says, "We will be studying the effects."

Speaking in Aelotian to Tikba, Kayse assures something you don't understand.

Speaking dryly to Tikba, Kayse says, "I had a good run, if it is."

Evia says, "I thought the little one had said the yellow fuzz stuff was sticky and came off from some sort of wall."

Missoni says, "I am hoping the effects will be understood before they can become a problem."

Thrassus says, "That's why I put on this mask."

Earthdiver says, "The yellow lichen in the caves was very bright...very good lighting."

Tikba amusedly says, "My concern was more for our friend Samfelt, who will be returning to the camp with the other settlers."

Samfelt deeply says, "Hopefully we can report this quickly to Commander Sablo or Lord Elidal."

Speaking to Tikba, Dendum reminds, ""If it was the caves....Sablo has been here for longer."

Speaking honestly to Thrassus, Bellaja admits, "I was so glad to have my handkerchief."

The voice of Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "Meybe not tell dem, and let it be a shoopride."

Samfelt deeply says, "For now, I'm going to see this meat salted so it'll keep until tomorrow when we put it to the pot."

Speaking to Samfelt, Thrassus says, "You should keep your distance from others for five days or so just in case."

Speaking to Dendum, Tikba says, "You are right. It would be too late in any case."

Speaking to Tikba, Missoni says, "And if it is as the goblins said, that the lichen caused it, it does not seem to me likely to be contagious."

Speaking to Tikba, Kiyna says, "We can't rightly isolate him and cause a panic, anyhow."

Irval offers Samfelt a velnalin shank.

Samfelt deeply says, "It was nice meeting you all. I have never not seen a goblin killed on sight before."

(OOC) Bellaja's player whispers to the group, "Did he say why he didn't feel right in Vornavis?"

Evia says, "Something more like a poison than a contagion."

Samfelt just opened a high-collared dark leather jacket fastened with thick fel toggles.

Samfelt put a short sword in his dark leather jacket.

Samfelt accepts Irval's velnalin shank.

Irval offers Samfelt a rolton shank.

Samfelt nods appreciatively at Irval.

Earthdiver says, "That is life up here."

Speaking to Samfelt, Missoni says, "Rest well."

Speaking to Samfelt, Thrassus says, "Stay around here long enough and you'll see all kinds of things killed on sight."

Speaking to Samfelt, Perigourd says, "Fair eve to you."

Samfelt deeply says, "I don't have anything to keep these in. Sorry, just a moment."

(OOC) Kayse's player whispers to the group, "Don't believe so."

(OOC) Kiyna's player whispers to the group, "Big town, small guy. Didn't feel right. I understand that."

Settler Samfelt just went north.

Settler Samfelt just arrived.

Samfelt deeply says, "I can take a bit more."

(OOC) Perigourd's player whispers to the group, "He spoke about it a few days ago."

Leafiara affably says, "Welcome back."

(OOC) Perigourd's player whispers to the group, "He helped log a bit in the Dragonsclaw."

Irval offers Samfelt a rolton shank.

Samfelt accepts Irval's rolton shank.

(OOC) Raelee's player whispers to the group, "Also Vornavis always smells like old seafood."

Irval offers Samfelt a rolton shank.

(OOC) Missoni's player whispers to the group, "When we were cutting trees with him the other day he said there were more jobs up here."

Samfelt accepts Irval's rolton shank.

Samfelt nods.

Irval asks, "Hows that?"

Irval asks, "Tide you over for now?"

The voice of Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "Now am hungry."

Samfelt deeply says, "That will be more than enough."

(OOC) Kayse's player whispers to the group, "I had no idea he was around....."

(OOC) Bellaja's player whispers to the group, "Ah okay!"

Samfelt deeply says, "The rolton can be made into mutton."

(OOC) Leafiara's player whispers to the group, "I kinda like that aspect of this story, things just kinda happen whenever at all hours."

(OOC) Kiyna's player whispers to the group, "Yeah, first I've heard of it."

(OOC) Perigourd's player whispers to the group, "I'm pretty sure it was early evening or late afternoon when he swung by."

Tikba lightly says, "Now you sound like a Landing citizen."

(OOC) Missoni's player whispers to the group, "It was... afternoon one day? I think someone put it up."

Samfelt deeply says, "Hopefully we will start building our walls soon, to keep this wind out."

Settler Samfelt just went north.

The voice of Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "Dokay yoo all, wut da firsht thing ye pappy teach ye, no talk to shtranger, and wutcha all go en do, ye talk to Shamfelt and jepperdice our goblin buddy."

Evia says, "Busy fellow."

Speaking carefully to Missoni, Raelee says, "This is not a superior existence compared to Vornavis."

Tikba mildly says, "Perhaps he would be less busy if he attended more to his work."

Speaking to Raelee, Missoni says, "Perhaps in some ways it is..."

Leafiara says, "This is barely a superior existence compared to anything. Why any of these settlers are here, I have no idea."

Speaking to Raelee, Missoni says, "More ah... Snow."

Kayse asks, "Shall we head back to town?"

Bellaja says, "I think a throrough bath is in ordero."

Irval says, "Hopes and dreams."

Dendum says, "Well that was in more than just locksmith."

Dendum says, "That one is more..."

Earthdiver says, "The weather is nice."

[travel]

[Town Square Central]

This is the heart of the main square of Wehnimer's Landing. The impromptu shops of the bazaar are clustered around this central gathering place, where townsfolk, travellers, and adventurers meet to talk, conspire or raise expeditions to the far-flung reaches of Elanith. At the north end, an old well, with moss-covered stones and a craggy roof, is shaded from the moonlight by a strong, robust tree. The oak is tall and straight, and it is apparent that the roots run deep. You also see a slender steel needle, a pale-faced coppery barn owl, a large acorn, a large acorn, an old well, some wide stone benches with some stuff on it, an herbal remedy donation bin and a round silver-banded barrel.

Bellaja says, "Please be safe, friends."

Missoni wishes, "Rest well."

The voice of Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "GP!"

Bellaja exclaims, "Seek help if you feel poorly!"

Leafiara concedes, "Well, okay, I guess living in the camp can't be the worst thing since at least Owly is right next door. There is that."

The coppery barn owl hoots at Leafiara.

Speaking knowingly to a pale-faced coppery barn owl, Leafiara says, "Inspiring an entire generation single...wingedly."