[slingergame] Bert says, "Log on."

[slingergame] Taleslinger says, "and then she says "but this one is eating my popcorn!""

[slingergame] Taleslinger says, "Sorry, I always wanted to do that at the start of a transcript"

[slingergame] Vraklul exclaims, "Finally, your life-long ambition!"

[slingergame] Taleslinger says, "Indeed!"

[slingergame] DM says, "That guy is soooo annoying"

[slingergame] Quarion says, "So. Can we still have some adventures (even if we won't be doing full-length battles)"

[slingergame] DM says, "I think you can."

[slingergame] DM asks, "I assume there are no lingering questions?"

[slingergame] Vraklul asks, "As I recall, we're preparing for our trip?"

[slingergame] Quarion says, "Nope."

[slingergame] Quarion says, "(Timing, gah)"

[slingergame] Quarion says, "I mean, yes, we're preparing for our trip."

[slingergame] Quarion asks, "Can we check whether Siri is operational?"

[slingergame] Vraklul asks, "Are we going to be bringing horses? Wagons? Any special gear/equipment?"

[slingergame] Vraklul says, "Oh yeah! I forgot about Siri's... incident."

DM says, "You are all in the Varg mansion. It's the morning after the prison incident, and y'all (and Haleth) are having breakfast."

[slingergame] Rashawndra asks, "And we buried the remains of the orphan and all that?"

[slingergame] Vraklul says, "Yeah."

[slingergame] Quarion asks, "I think we did so?"

DM says, "Stabby is enjoying her whacking spiders (they come in a huge bowl and you have to whack them with your spoon and then eat them), while everyone else (i assume) is eating normal food."

[slingergame] Rashawndra says, "Ha ha"

[slingergame] DM says (to rashawndra), "We can say you did that. (I meant to ask about that)"

Quarion says, "Mmmmm, kippers."

[slingergame] Vraklul says, "I don't think we RP'ed the scene, but I think I'd assumed it happened roughly around the same time as the party."

[slingergame] Vraklul says, "And that Horst was presumably involved."

[slingergame] DM says, "Okay, that's fair."

[slingergame] Rashawndra says, "The Siri thing reminded me; I didn't remember if it got interrupted."

[slingergame] DM says, "No, it was a normal funeral. You were the only one's attending (and Horst)."

[slingergame] Rashawndra says, "Excelelnt."

[slingergame] Rashawndra says, "^el/le"

Haleth pushes her bowl to a side and heaves something wrapped in a blanket onto the table.

[slingergame] Rashawndra says, "(Excleelnt? Anyway.)"

Shaborys is too busy whacking spiders to pay any attention.

[slingergame] DM says, "That tiefling accent is hard to understand sometimes."

[slingergame] Vraklul says, "Yeah, I'm pretty sure '^el/le' was a naughty word."

Quarion carefully unwraps the blanket. Is it...?

Siri has got a new, steely finish, and her legs and everything look like new.

Vraklul exclaims, "Siri! You're all better!"

Siri says, "*ding* SYSTEM MESSAGE: fully operational"

Quarion says (to Haleth), "Whoever did this, they did a marvellous job. Thank you."

Vraklul pats her on the... head? Or whatever is most closely analogous.

Shaborys looks up. Oooh. Nice.

Siri folds in her legs and sits on the table.

[Crows-Nest] DM exclaims, "SPIDERS CRAWL EVERYONE WHEN STABBY IS DISTRACTED!"

[Crows-Nest] Vraklul says, "Fortunately, I still have Spidersbane."

[Crows-Nest] Shaborys says, "I think she's good enough to whack any spiders leaving the bowl even while not entirely paying attention."

[Crows-Nest] Quarion says, "Shabby's spider sense. :P"

Vraklul says, "I'm glad we'll have Siri with us on our trip."

Bloofang says(with his eyes alone)Are you gonna eat all these kippers alone? I haven't been fed in weeks!Months!Years!Please!Just a bite

Vraklul asks, "Speaking of which, have we arranged everything we're going to need for it?"

Quarion says (to Bloodfang), "Here's a kipper for you. Goooood dog."

[slingergame] DM says, "I thought you could do the arranging at the breakfast"

Bloodfang *nom nom nom*

Vraklul asks (of Quarion), "How far is it, and what's the terrain like? Do you think we'll need horses?"

[slingergame] Vraklul says, "Yeah, that's what I'm trying to kick off."

[slingergame] DM says, "It's about a month to 6 weeks travel away. You can travel the first quarter or so by boat, on the Wolfwater, and then you need to go on foot, or by horse."

[slingergame] Rashawndra says, "Could we cut down on travel time with an airship? ;-)"

Quarion explains all this, of course, pulling out a map.

[slingergame] Vraklul says, "I don't think they're in town."

[slingergame] Vraklul says, "IIRC."

[slingergame] DM says, "YRC"

[slingergame] Quarion says, "They're lighthouse keepers now."

Vraklul says, "Oh. I guess we probably won't want to bring horses on the boat."

[slingergame] Rashawndra asks, "so they're not using the airship anyway?"

[slingergame] DM says, "he he"

Vraklul says, "We should buy any travelling gear that we think we'll need in town this morning."

Quarion says, "I think we can handle this journey on foot. I made it to Greymaw from the Evergreen Forest all by foot, all by myself, when I was must less experienced."

Quarion says (to Vraklul), "Excellent idea."

Shaborys disappears through an invisible gap in the MUD. You think you may have heard the sounds of chatting before the gap closed again.

Rashawndra says, "I'm pretty good at living off the land. I could probably keep us all fed, assuming we're not crossing a desert or something."

Vraklul asks, "Do we think we'll be ready to set out this afternoon, then?"

DM says, "No, it's mostly farmland. Actually, I've prepared a small introduction to the lands south of Wolfwater"

Quarion says, "Yeah, I think travelling light will be best."

Shaborys arrives from the east.

[slingergame] Shaborys says, "Ugh, internet."

[Crows-Nest] Vraklul says, "On the other hand, it'll be extra easy to keep us fed if we're crossing a dessert."

DM | A few dozen miles south of Wolfwater the farmlands start. It's a largely inhabited region full of gigantic farms, ruled over by landowners who are like nobility here.

DM | For the longest time, this region was pretty much peaceful. Then, about 10 years ago, gnolls started coming from the mountains to the east.

DM | Everyone agrees Gnoll Wars is kind of misnomer ; They never formed armies, but their war parties are the bane of the lands, especially the smaller villages and the free farms.

DM | Since their is no centralized government in this region of Bastafore, the haphazard response to the gnolls only aggravated the problem.

DM | Many of the landowners hired mercenaries to deal with the problem. It wasn't long until the in-fighting started. Now wild bands of unpaid mercaneries have become robbers, gnoll war bands are a common sight, and every hovel or inn is a small fortress.

DM | These days only the main roads in the farmlands are somewhat safe.

DM | Trade to and from Wolfwater is done by well-guarded caravans and then by boat.

DM | As soon as you leave the roads, though, you're on your own.

[Crows-Nest] DM says, "yay paste"

[slingergame] Rashawndra exclaims, "Definitely airship time. Let's bypass the GM's next adventure!"

[Crows-Nest] Vraklul says, "This seems to be missing the bits about Kansas City Union Station."

[Crows-Nest] DM says, "he he"

[slingergame] Rashawndra asks, "I don't think we have much more cash than we did when last we went on a shopping spree, right? So, no last-minute magic items or the like?"

Vraklul asks (of Quarion), "What's the best route to take? Should we follow the roads, or do you know a short cut?"

[slingergame] Vraklul says, "I think we're roughly broke, aside from the mansion."

[Crows-Nest] Quarion says (to DM), "We really should have gone over this *before* the session"

DM says, "Following the roads is best for the first few weeks, then you have to off the main roads to read Bloodaxe's hut"

[slingergame] Vraklul asks, "To read Bloodaxe's hut?"

[slingergame] Shaborys says, "I wouldn't say we're *broke*, but no, I haven't been taking in much money lately."

Rashawndra asks (of expositor), "Anyone have any theories why the gnolls started raiding?"

[slingergame] Shaborys says, "So we're not quite where we were before the last shopping session, but we have coin."

[slingergame] Vraklul says, "Vraklul has been gradually forgetting that money is a thing again."

[Crows-Nest] Quarion asks, "May i roll History?"

[Crows-Nest] Quarion asks, "Or would my character already know?"

DM exclaims (at rashawndra), "Nobody has any idea. All they say when captured (even under torture) is that it's for Yeenoghu!"

[Crows-Nest] Quarion says, "Quarion has been possessed by the Light"

[Crows-Nest] Quarion says, "aka the GM"

Vraklul says, "Mysteriously raiding gnolls, sudden elven assassinations... sounds to me like it's that old Evil afoot."

Quarion exclaims, "Well, fortunately we're here to put a stop to it!"

Vraklul exclaims, "Yeah!"

Vraklul stands up. "Let's do it!"

DM asks, "What do you plan to buy (if anything)?"

Mr.Jennings says, "More crumpets, Master Wellington?"

Vraklul exclaims, "Yes, please!"

[slingergame] Quarion asks (of DM), "I briefly considered buying a spell, but I fear that the investment might not be worth it?"

[slingergame] Quarion says, "I'm not sure how much Shaborys has left."

[slingergame] DM exclaims, "I can't answer that for you!"

Vraklul stuffs his pockets. He'll need some snacks while shopping.

[slingergame] Vraklul says, "The replenishment of generic supplies, of course, like travelling rations, rope, lamp oil, etc."

[slingergame] DM says, "Consider it done."

[slingergame] Vraklul asks, "Does any of us have a climber's kit, and do we anticipate any climbing?"

Shaborys hems and haws about spending the money, but fine, we need to be prepared.

[slingergame] Quarion says, "There are no mountains where we're going, my friend."

[slingergame] Shaborys says, "I have pitons and rope."

[slingergame] Quarion says, "Yay."

[slingergame] Rashawndra says, "Where we're going, we don't *need* roads^W climbing equipment."

[slingergame] Shaborys says, "But not like, the other fancy stuff in a climber's kit."

[slingergame] Vraklul says, "I assume that we already have tents and such."

[slingergame] Rashawndra says, "There's always the possibility of having to go *down*."

[slingergame] Quarion says, "Fair point."

[slingergame] DM says, "I think you have, otherwise I'm sure the mansion has one or two"

[slingergame] Vraklul says, "If we think it might be useful, I don't mind carrying a proper climber's kit and grappling hook."

[slingergame] Vraklul says, "(I have no money to buy them, but, y'know.)"

Rashawndra sends a message to Horst to have him check the archives for a possibly-gnoll-related being/deity named 'Yeenoghu'.

DM says, "Yeenoghu is the demon prince of the gnolls, their god"

[slingergame] Rashawndra says, "We also have a good selection of childrens beds."

[slingergame] Vraklul says, "...yes."

[slingergame] Shaborys says, "haha"

[slingergame] Shaborys asks, "can we sell those?"

[slingergame] Vraklul says, "Ha ha ha."

[Crows-Nest] Roger says, "start an orphanage it'll be great"

[slingergame] Shaborys says, "Slightly used. With murder."

[slingergame] Quarion says, "We can sell what we can."

[slingergame] Vraklul says, "At some point, we should figure out what to do with that space upstairs. I'm thinking maybe starting a kind of school for junior knights of VG. Tweens and teens who are on the street but what to become heroes."

[slingergame] Vraklul says, "Let them stay here, give them lessons on fighting and adventuring and doing good deeds."

[slingergame] DM exclaims, "I smell a spinoff!"

[slingergame] Rashawndra says, "Ha."

[slingergame] Rashawndra says, "But yeah, with that, I'm good to go."

[slingergame] Vraklul exclaims, "OK! Off we go!"

[slingergame] Quarion asks (of DM), "Out of curiosity, is either Slow (level 3) or Mirror Image (level 2) affordable?"

[slingergame] Vraklul asks, "Is anyone going with us? I'm assuming Siri is, and I'm guessing Haleth is staying here. What about Bloodfang?"

[slingergame] DM says, "I forget how spell scrolls cost are calculated, tbh"

[slingergame] Quarion says, "haha"

[slingergame] Quarion says (to Vraklul), "Well, if Bloodfang stays in wolfwater, eventually Burton will kidnap him."

[slingergame] Quarion says, "If we leave him with Haleth, it'll put her at risk."

[slingergame] Vraklul exclaims, "Good point!"

[slingergame] Rashawndra asks, "We could leave him with someone at the port after we cross the water?"

[slingergame] DM says (to quarion), "According to this list I just googled, Slow would set you back 600 GP, Slow 400"

[slingergame] Shaborys says, ""wanna watch our dog? Also there might be a super dangerous dude looking for him""

[slingergame] Quarion says, "hahah"

[slingergame] Shaborys cries in greedy.

[slingergame] Shaborys says, "Also you write slow twice."

[slingergame] DM says, "You could give him back to Burton and later steal him back"

[slingergame] Shaborys thinks Mirror Image seems cooler, in terms of what she's willing to pay for.

[slingergame] Shaborys says, ";)"

[slingergame] Shaborys asks, "Maybe we can timeshare with Burton?"

[slingergame] Vraklul asks, "Why not just let Bloodfang come along?"

[slingergame] Vraklul says, "I'm sure we can protect him."

[slingergame] Quarion says, "Well, Mirror Image is more self-defence whereas Slow is reverse Haste on six people (including spellslingers)"

[slingergame] DM says, "I'm happy to treat him as before, as basically like a non-combat pet"

[slingergame] Quarion says, "yay"

[slingergame] Shaborys says, "Well, all right. Maybe Slow."

[slingergame] DM says, "On his stats it says under actions: RUN AWAY (Very fast)"

[slingergame] Quarion asks (of Shaborys), "how much do you have anyway?"

[slingergame] Shaborys says, "The DM knows."

[slingergame] Shaborys D

[slingergame] Quarion says, "heh."

[slingergame] Shaborys:D

[slingergame] Rashawndra asks, "This is for a one-use scroll, or for the ability to cast it whenever you want?"

[slingergame] Quarion says, "The latter."

[slingergame] Quarion says, "(I think!)"

[slingergame] Shaborys says, "I have enough, though. Like I said, we are not broke."

[slingergame] DM says, "yes"

[slingergame] Quarion says, "Well, then I'll invest in Slow, being the strategist of the group."

[slingergame] Shaborys says, "So 600? (DM wrote Slow twice, but it's a higher level, so probablythe more expensive one.)"

[slingergame] Vraklul says, "By the way, *if* we make a pile of money from evil mercenaries and gnoll raiding parties, it *might* be neat if we could buy a set of half plate armor after this adventure. But it's expensive (750gp), so I'm not going to push for it, and I don't think we should prioritize it over more generally useful spells right now."

Jennings points out that the next boat leaves in the early afternoon, and he'll happily procure a cabin for y'all. The voyage downriver will take about a week.

Vraklul exclaims, "Thanks! That would be great!"

[slingergame] DM says, "Yes"

Shaborys reluctantly hands over the money, but she visibly winces. She'd better see this spell be useful in action.

Mr.Jennings says, "But of course, sir. Jennings jr., would you be kind enough to make the arrangement?" - "But of course, sir.""

Quarion says (to Shaborys), "It will be."

Quarion says, "And now for something I should have done a long, long time ago..."

Quarion says, "... a message for Brunhilda."

[Crows-Nest] Vraklul says, "Quarion changes his socks."

[slingergame] Rashawndra imagines Quarion bursting into tears and throwing furniture around the room.

[Crows-Nest] DM says, "Haleth, (disappointed) "Oh.""

[Crows-Nest] Quarion says, "hahah"

[Crows-Nest] Quarion says, "aww"

Quarion says, "We should let her know we're coming."

Quarion says (to Vraklul), "I know that Siri only just came back, but I think this is the right thing to do."

[slingergame] Quarion says (to DM), "Don't worry, I won't forget to say goodbye to Haleth."

Vraklul says, "Sure, I don't think Siri will mind."

Quarion says, "Thanks."

[slingergame] Vraklul asks, "Hmm. I'm assuming that we've already told the rest of our friends in town what we're doing said our goodbyes over the last few days?"

Quarion says, "Hmmm, how to condense all our adventures into 25 words."

[slingergame] Vraklul says, "Hennimore, Davina, etc."

[slingergame] Shaborys says, "Probably."

[slingergame] DM says, "Well, you only decided to leave yesterday IC, so..."

[slingergame] Shaborys says, "Oh, right."

Vraklul asks, "'Met new friends, became a Knight, defeated chain demon, inherited a mansion. Now questing to clear my father's name. Will see you soon. Love, Quarion.'?"

Quarion is speechless.

[slingergame] Vraklul says, "Oh, I was thinking it was a couple of days ago."

Shaborys claps politely.

[slingergame] DM says, "'tis okay"

Quarion says (to Vraklul), "You never fail to surprise me. That'll do perfectly."

[slingergame] Vraklul says, "Then I'd like to suggest that, along with shopping, we also stop by everyone to say goodbye."

Vraklul exclaims, "Glad to help!"

[Crows-Nest] Quarion says, "(Is it evil that I want to see how Siri mangles that message when recording it?)"

[Crows-Nest] Vraklul says, "No, it's not evil at all that you want to make the DM have to come up with the mangled version of that message."

[Crows-Nest] DM exclaims, "You have not recorded it yet!"

Quarion says, "Siri, we have a message for Brunhilda Bloodaxe."

[Crows-Nest] Vraklul exclaims, "I know! You're giving him way too much prep time on this!"

Siri says, "*ding*RECIPIENT RECORDED AS Brawnhildor Blackeggs"

Quarion says, "Met new friends, became a Knight, defeated Bloodforged chain, inherited a mansion, now journeying to clear my father's name. Will see you soon. Love, Quarion."

Siri says, "MESSAGE RECORDED AS : Mad new clans, because a night, defeated chain lemon, Inharrison amazing! Know questing? To clear my rather shame. Will bee moon. Dove, Darian.'?"

Vraklul nods.

[Crows-Nest] Quarion says (to DM), "I am so sorry."

DM scampers off.

Siri scampers off.

[Crows-Nest] Vraklul asks, "Crap, now who's going to run the game?"

[Crows-Nest] DM exclaims, "See how you like it, having to come up with mangled messaged!"

[Crows-Nest] Quarion says, "I wanted to apologize for slightly altering the message"

[Crows-Nest] Quarion says, "It messed up your mangling a teensy bit"

[Crows-Nest] DM says, "indeed"

[Crows-Nest] Vraklul says, "Aw."

[Crows-Nest] Quarion says, "please forgive me"

[Crows-Nest] DM says, "*meanwhile, on pirate captain Bloodeggs ship ...*"

Quarion says, "So that's done, at any rate."

DM asks, "Where to next?"

Vraklul exclaims, "Alright, let's hit the town, grab some gear, say our goodbyes, and meet back at the docks!"

Quarion exclaims, "Affirmative, Vrak!"

DM says, "*gear buying montage*"

DM says, "(including spell scroll)"

[slingergame] Vraklul says, "I'll probably go to the governor's place to say goodbye to Hennimore first (and let the governor et al. know)."

[slingergame] DM asks, "Unless someone wants something exotic?"

[slingergame] Rashawndra says, "I want a porpoise."

[slingergame] Rashawndra says, "(OK, maybe not)"

[Crows-Nest] Quarion exclaims, "But you already have a sense of purpose!"

[slingergame] Shaborys says, "We can steal one from the zoo."

[slingergame] Vraklul asks, "And it'll swim alongside the boat?"

[slingergame] Vraklul asks, "And then watch Bloodfang for us while we're away?"

[slingergame] Quarion vetoes porpoise.

[slingergame] DM asks (of rashawndra), "Can Stabby even eat a whole one?"

[slingergame] DM exclaims, "I smell another spinoff!"

DM says, "hennimore works out of the judicial buildings these days, clearing up some incredibly boring road tax thing. As y'all come by, she takes 5 minutes to say goodbye and wishes you all the best (and holds Vrak to his promise of a dinner)"

Quarion, of course, takes forever to say goodbye to Haleth.

[Setting the zoned flag.]

Shaborys assumes everyone wants to see Davina, or else she'll go over there alone.

Quarion says, "(this happens after, at the boat before boarding?)"

Quarion exclaims, "We go to see Davina too!"

DM says (to quarion), "Sure"

Quarion says, "yay :-)"

DM exclaims, "As you go into Davina's shop ... Rush is sneak attacked!"

Shaborys awww.

Tali says, ""Quick, grab her tail!" Eeed jumps on her back. "grrr, I have her!""

Rashawndra grins and exclaims, "Help help!"

Quarion exclaims, "Bandits! Oh, my!"

Shaborys laughs.

Vraklul says (to Rush), "Sorry, I guess we'll just have to go without you."

Davina and Sparks are sorting potions, putting away the stuff that has gone bad.

Rashawndra says, "No, no, I'll just have to bring these with me!" She staggers in mock difficulty with kids on her back."

Rashawndra exclaims, "See, I can still make it!"

Sparks says, "Are you trying to steal my kids? Luckily, I have a secret weapon! Everyone tickle Rush!"

Rashawndra . o O ( o no )

Quarion uses MAge Hand!

Quarion exclaims, "Tickles constitute arcane magic of the highest degree!"

Rashawndra rolls on the floor as a full-out tickle war ensues.

Davina says, ""Hey, this is a shop full of highly breakable potions! Is anyone listening to me? Hello!! *sigh*""

Shaborys does not engage in tickles. They are beneath her.

[slingergame] Rashawndra says (to Shaborys), "Literally, since we're on the floor."

Davina says, "So what brings you guys here? Tali, stop biting Rush's tail at once, young lady."

Rashawndra mouths 'thank you' to Davina.

Quarion says, "We're off on another adventure, and wanted to say goodbye."

Shaborys says, "We're sailing away. Setting an open course for the virgin sea."

Davina says, "I assume that is a poetic way to say you're going downriver?"

Quarion says, "It is."

Vraklul says, "Don't worry, we'll be back in a few months, probably."

Sparks is holding Tali upside down and at arm

Sparks is holding Tali upside down and at arm's length. "Uh, this one bites!"

Davina and Sparks exchange a meaningful look, and the former says, "Actually, a friend of ours is going downriver as well, just today I think.

Rashawndra stands up with Eeed still on her shoulders. "Yup! We're going to have to make it through the gnolls. You don't know anything about a Yeenoghu, do you?'

Vraklul asks, "Oh yeah? Who's that?"

Quarion says (to Vraklul), "Some gnoll god, apparently."

[Crows-Nest] Vraklul says, "Pfft."

[Crows-Nest] Quarion says, "Timing was confusing"

[slingergame] Vraklul says, "(AFK a moment.)"

Sparks is holding Tali's mouth shut and twirling her around. Yeah, Yeenoghu is the demon god of most of the gnolls. People assume he send them all a message to go forth and ravage the grasslands.

Rashawndra asks, "Who's your friend?"

Rashawndra asks, "Do some gnolls have a deity who's *not* a demon?"

Davina says, "Villeta, she is an old human herb gatherer and ranger. She is going downriver to find some more stuff to sell here, and for my potions."

Sparks and Davina exchange another look, and he shakes his head slightly at her.

[Crows-Nest] Shaborys would be the worst aunt. Just considered slipping the cutest little rogues some stolen shivs from the prison.

[Crows-Nest] Shaborys says, "But she probably also has candy."

[slingergame] DM says, "No, wait, slight retcon. I get to use that cool name I couldn't use because marc left."

Rashawndra says (to S&D), "OK, what is it? We can help, we still have time."

[slingergame] Vraklul says, "Back."

DM says, "Uh, Villeta is her first name, but everyone calls her by her last name, Cannery."

Vraklul says, "Cool. We'll have to say hi."

Davina narrows her eyes and nod at him. Sparks shrug and catches a place on his arm, where he has a huge mass of scar tissue you've noticed before.

[Crows-Nest] Quarion says, "First human NPC who is *not* a thug"

DM says, "*scratches"

[Crows-Nest] Quarion asks, "Wait, Esteban is human?"

[slingergame] Rashawndra asks, "'Catches a place'?"

[slingergame] Rashawndra says, "Oh, scratches."

[Crows-Nest] DM says, "So are the Jenningses"

[Crows-Nest] Quarion says, "Ah, well, I was wrong."

[Crows-Nest] Vraklul says, "I think Hennimore was almost human, but then got retconned into a half-elf."

Davina says, "Vrak, can you close the door please?"

[Crows-Nest] Vraklul says, "So I don't know if she counts."

[Crows-Nest] DM says, "She half-counts."

Shaborys uh oh.

[Crows-Nest] DM says, "Wait, are the Jennigses elves? I don't think so."

Vraklul does so.

Quarion sense ominous revelations.

[slingergame] DM says, "cliffhanger! afk a minute"

[Crows-Nest] Vraklul says, "It doesn't sound like a very elvish name to me."

[Crows-Nest] Quarion says, "I think they're gray people from outer space."

Davina wrings her hand and doesn't look at anyone straight, while Sparks crosses his arms kind of defensively. "So, friends, I have to ask you two rather unrelated seeming questions first, okay?"

Shaborys says, "Sure.."

Quarion says, "Go on..."

DM asks, "Erm, so, what is, like, your stance on slavery?"

Quarion says, "Definitely a bad thing."

Shaborys says, "It's pretty terrible."

Rashawndra exclaims, "That'd be a firm no from me, too!"

Sparks shoos the kids and Bloodfang into the garden.

Vraklul says, "Yeah, I'm not a fan either."

Davina says, "That's good, that's good. And, we have heard that you've recently spent some time with Captain Esteban ... How do you feel about him? Are you friends with him?"

[Crows-Nest] Vraklul exclaims, "#belated Kaze!"

Rashawndra says, "He seems like a reasonable guy? Very law-abiding, which seems appropriate, given his job."

Vraklul says, "He seems generally decent. A bit strict on the whole 'law' thing, but nobody's perfect."

Rashawndra says, "I... couldn't see myself in that job, personanlly."

Quarion says, "Too soon to call him a friend, but he seemed all right."

Shaborys shrugs.

Vraklul says, "He gave back my axes like he agreed to."

Shaborys asks, "Is he pro-slavery or something?"

Rashawndra says, "Well, he's probably pro-law, and if the law says slavery is OK..."

Davina stares at Sparks, who stares back, but then he seems to relent, sags his shoulders and makes a "Go on motion." She cocks her head at him. "Thank you, you big dummy". And he answers: "Hey, who are you calling big?"

Vraklul says (to Rush), "That's silly."

Vraklul asks (of Rush), "Isn't the whole point of having laws so that you can, like, officially say that things like slavery *aren't* OK?"

Rashawndra exclaims, "Yes, but it's *consistent*!"

Rashawndra says, "Right, so we need better laws. And until then, we can just do the right thing."

Rashawndra asks, "So, do you guys have a petition you want signed or something?"

Davina looks from one of the other to you, seeminly bemused at your discussion. "The situation with slavery in Wolfwater ... is complicated. I think everyone decent here is against it. But the town makes its living through trade, so we have to be ... diplomatic about some things. Or our politicans think we do. So it's illegal to sell slaves here, or to enslave people, but it's not disallowed to bring slaves you own. And it's illegal to free slaves in any *audible quote marks* illegal manner."

Shaborys says, "Oh."

Davina says, "Have you ever heard of the midwife?"

Vraklul asks, "But a manner is only illegal if there's a law against, it right?"

Rashawndra asks, "I've heard of... midwives? midwifery?"

Rashawndra asks, "Is someone pregnant?"

Davina says, "It's an underground network that helps slaves escape. For instance, remove slave marks from people, find them jobs in the city, papers, stuff like that."

Vraklul tries to remember if dragonborn lay eggs.

Vraklul says, "Neat."

Quarion says (to Davina), "That is an honourable enterprise, as far as I'm concerned."

Davina says, "Unfortunately, this is still illegal, so Esteban has been on our case for a while. I just want to make sure this doesn't cause you any conflict of interest."

Shaborys says, "Esteban can go *u** himself, if he has a problem with freeing slaves."

Davina grins at Rashawndra. "Don't worry, nobody's pregnant."

Quarion says, "He should be focussing on Burton."

Shaborys says, "That, too."

Rashawndra says, "Poor guy would probably feel better if we passed a law saying all slaves were free inside the city limits."

Davina He is bound by law, but he is a good man.

Quarion says, "I think I missed the bit where we suddenly started passing laws, Rush"

Vraklul says, "If you need us to take any heat for you with Esteban, I'm fine with that."

Rashawndra says, "We know the mayor, right? I'm sure it can't be that hard."

Rashawndra says, "But we probably can't manage that before we leave today."

Quarion says, "That is a fair point."

Rashawndra asks, "So what do you need from the river?"

Shaborys asks, "So, your friend is part of the midwife network? Or she's an escaped slave? Or something?"

Davina says, "My shop is the end point, we remove slave marks, as best as possible.*points at Sparks' arm*our methods have improved over the years."

Shaborys oh...

Quarion sees it now.

Vraklul nods.

Sparks says, "Yes, Sparks is not a name parents would give you. It was a cruel joke. But when I first heard Davina say it, I decided to keep it."

Vraklul asks, "Hmm. So, you want us to drop some hints that we're shipping slaves out of the city with us?"

Davina says, "Yes, Cannery is part of the network. She uses the herb thing as a cover to find escaped slaves, or help those who have."

Vraklul asks, "Y'know, something to get Esteban's guys to maybe follow us south, and take some of the pressure off of you?"

Vraklul says, "Oh."

Vraklul says, "I guess my idea might be counter-productive hen."

[Crows-Nest] Vraklul says, "Then"

[Crows-Nest] Rashawndra says, "#band-name Counter-Productive Hen"

Davina says, "We have gotten a rather strange note, and Cannery is going to check it out. If she, well, if she needs help, would you ... I mean I can't ask you, but, you know ..."

[Crows-Nest] Vraklul says, "It goes around swalling other hens' eggs."

Rashawndra asks, "Sure! What did the note say?"

Vraklul asks, "Oh! Is that all?"

Vraklul exclaims, "Of course!"

Quarion says, "I am always prepared to protect those whom the law won't defend."

Shaborys says, "Of course!"

Vraklul asks, "Davina, how long have you known us, and you think you still need to *ask* if we would help defend a friend in danger?"

Davina says, "I'm sorry, old friend."

(From DM) And suddenly, she looks old. You can feel the weight of untold years of secrecy on her shoulders.

Rashawndra says, "Enh, can't hurt to check first."

Shaborys reaches out and pats Davina's hand.

Quarion says (to Davina), "You're forgiven already."

Rashawndra gives her a hug.

Vraklul says, "I'm sorry, I didn't mean to sound... I just mean... *yes*. We'll gladly do whatever we can to help."

Davina hugs everyone back.

Davina straightens up. "That's settled then! hey, how are you doing for potions?"

Shaborys says, "I think we've all got some sort of healing potion on hand."

Vraklul says, "I'm pretty good for healing still! I don't usually get hurt that bad."

Rashawndra checks. "Looks like I have a Potion of Greater Healing that I haven't had to use since you gave it to me last time.

Quarion says, "I have one of those too."

Sparks says, "My healing potion is looking at my beautiful and brave wife."

Shaborys awww.

Davina says, "Aw shucks! Good luck on your journey, friends. Cannery will tell you more."

Quarion says, "Thanks forever."

Shaborys says, "Thanks!"

Rashawndra says, "Perfect."

Shaborys hugs around before we leave.

(From DM) Davina's family waves you off!

[slingergame] DM asks, "Where to next?"

Quarion exclaims, "By the grace of Solonor Thelandira, we'll be back before you know it!"

[slingergame] Rashawndra says, "Smash cut to the boat! Unless you have something else planned."

[slingergame] Quarion says, "Boat (with Haleth there to wave us goodbye, presumably)"

[slingergame] Vraklul asks, "If Hennimore wasn't at the mayor's office, should we go there to let them know? Or just trust that if they care, they'll find out from Jennings?"

[slingergame] Vraklul says, "Oh, we should let Horst know."

[slingergame] DM | You say, "hennimore works out of the judicial buildings these days, clearing up some incredibly boring road tax thing. As y'all come by, she takes 5 minutes to say goodbye and wishes you all the best (and holds Vrak to his promise of a dinner)"

Quarion This is like the ending of LOTR

Quarion says, "ilal"

[slingergame] Vraklul says (to DM), "Right."

[Crows-Nest] Quarion says, "This is like the ending of LOTR"

[Crows-Nest] DM says (to quarion), "That had less making out"

[Crows-Nest] Quarion says, "hahaha"

[slingergame] Vraklul says, "Which I took to mean 'telling Hennimore does not automatically mean also telling the mayor'."

[slingergame] Rashawndra says, "We can just assume that people know we're heading out, and the DM can have an actual scene for any goodbye where there's something additional like Davinia's."

[slingergame] DM says, "She'll tell the governor."

[slingergame] Vraklul says, "Er, right, him."

[slingergame] Vraklul says, "I can't think of anything else."

[Crows-Nest] Quarion exclaims, "So, boat it is!"

[Crows-Nest] Quarion says, "How 'boat that, huh"

DM says, "You board the "Beholder's Foot", a bulbous trade ship that has you as passengers, a three man crew, and is otherwise loaded with a cacophonic cargo of chickens."

[Crows-Nest] Vraklul says, "Boat it. Just boat it."

[Crows-Nest] Quarion says, "Don't keep your feelings boat-tled up, guys! It's okay to cry"

[Crows-Nest] (from DM) Roger says, "I don't get what the joke is aboat

Vraklul exclaims, "Hi!"

Vraklul asks, "I think Jennings probably told you about us?"

DM says, "The crew greets and confirms Jennings's reservations for you, but is otherwise busy. A very old human woman in ranger-ish clothes is leaning on the railing."

[Crows-Nest] Quarion says, "Man, Aragorn has really let himself go."

[Crows-Nest] Quarion exclaims, "Wait, it's his grandma!"

Rashawndra heads over to the railing and looks over it next to her. "Hey, are you Cannery? Davinia told us you might be on this boat, too."

[Crows-Nest] Quarion says, "Played by Sean Cannery"

[slingergame] Shaborys was gonna be a little more subtle, haha.

[Crows-Nest] DM says, "Aragorn's grandmother was called Ivorwen"

Cannery fingerguns at Rashawndra. "You betcha, kiddo."

Rashawndra says, "Nice! I'm Rashawndra, but people call me Rush."

Shaborys slips over to Rush and Cannery and stands on the woman's other side. "Hello."

Rashawndra shakes hands.

Quarion says, "I'm Quarion, and sometimes when I feel ridiculously pretentious I go by 'Quarion the Green'."

DM says, "I'm Villeta Cannery, but everyone calls me Cannery. And you must be Vrak, Quarion and, *winks* the other Tiefling.""

Shaborys smiles.

Cannery says, "(to Quarion) Because you get seasick?"

Quarion says, "Haha. It's true I haven't been on the water much. I'm more of a land person."

Vraklul says, "Well spotted."

DM says, "And the boat casts off! Soon, Wolfwater receded behind you, and the boat gently rocks on the current."

Cannery says, "We sure are lucky to be the only passengers. That means only the five of us have to share a cabin."

Rashawndra finds a spot on the highest spot she can find [the roof of the cabin? The crow's nest?] and watches the coast go by.

[slingergame] DM says, "Crow's nest"

Quarion will try to spend some time reading his spellbook, using the scroll he bought to understand the intricate workings of time. Initially he was hoping he could speed up time with that arcane knowledge, but slowing it down... that seems more interesting.

Vraklul says, "Hey, I remember when we first ran into each other, we only had *four* to a cabin. But I don't think many people were headed to Bastafore back then."

[Crows-Nest] DM says, "Haleth also wants him to be slower IYKWIM he he he"

[Crows-Nest] Shaborys ew.

Vraklul will be filling much of his spare time on this with meditation, calisthentics and yoga.

[Crows-Nest] Quarion says, "(mechanically: I un-prepare Charm Person to replace it with a prepared Slow.)"

DM says, "So, you spent the day doing this and then, and then, night falls! The boat carries anchors at a jetty (is that what it's called?), with an inn next to it."

Quarion says, "Things are going very smoothly, my companions."

Quarion says, "I have a very good feeling about this journey."

DM asks, "I assume you get off the boat and grab some food?"

[slingergame] Rashawndra says, "Sure."

Quarion leaps in search of edibles!

Quarion is of course followed by Bloodfang in this search

Vraklul will gladly eat food. It's one of his favorite things to eat.

Quarion asks, "What does the inn offer?"

DM says, "The inn is made of roughly hewn logs, all the tables and chairs are either stumps or rough boards, everything inside here looks rustic and kind of improvised. It's filled to the brim with travellers, most noticable among them a bond of mercenaries in mismatched outfits but matching red boots. You climb up some wooden stairs and find a corner table on the first floor."

[Crows-Nest] Shaborys says, "Edibles seem more up Vrak's alley than Quarions ;)"

[Crows-Nest] DM asks, "Or second floor?"

[Crows-Nest] Quarion says, "ground floor, first floor, etc"

[Crows-Nest] Quarion says, "so I think you were right the first time"

[Crows-Nest] Rashawndra says, "It'd be 'second floor' in the US."

DM says, "You have a choice, food wise, of local greens and cow, pig or chicken meat, or eggs."

[Crows-Nest] Rashawndra says, "The ground floor == the first floor"

[Crows-Nest] DM says, "aha"

[Crows-Nest] DM says, "Of course, I will promptly forget this"

Rashawndra orders ham and eggs.

Shaborys wants a collection of cow, pig and chicken meat. No greens.

[Crows-Nest] DM says, "Anyway, my yankee friends, it's the second floor."

[slingergame] DM says, "Good thing stabby gets a lot of exercise with her diet."

Quarion orders greens and chicken. He has been greatly annoyed by the sound of clucking during his studies, and feels in the mood for vengeance.

Quarion says, "I will end you, foul fowl! Munch, munch, munch."

Vraklul says, "Greens, cow, pig and chicken, please."

DM asks, "It's a typical tavern. How do you want to spend the evening?"

Shaborys will gladly go play dice with someone for money...

Vraklul asks, "Did anyone see a dartboard on the way in?"

[Crows-Nest] Rashawndra asks, "What do people think about me casting Detect Thoughts to make sure nothing nefarious is going on?"

DM says (to vraklul), "No, but something could be whipped up outside (using throwing axes)"

[Crows-Nest] Shaborys says, "Sure."

Vraklul exclaims, "That's a great idea!"

[Crows-Nest] Quarion says, "Try those mercenaries in the red boots"

[Crows-Nest] Vraklul says, "OOC, I have no problem with it. IC, I have no idea that you're doing it."

DM says (to vraklul), "There is a perfectly nice, non-thuggish human who wants to play with you"

Rashawndra figures that she might as well make sure everything is on the up-and-up in here, so casts Detect Thoughts, then scans the room.

Vraklul asks (of Human), "Hi! I'll make a target on this tree. Do you want to go first or second?"

DM exclaims, "I'll go first!"

Vraklul says, "Great -- do you have your own throwing axe? I've got a spare, if you don't."

Shaborys watches to make sure there's no funny business going on.

DM says, "I'll use your spare, thanks."

DM says (to shaborys), "Really? Those mercs are rolling dice, you know"

Vraklul lets the human have their pick of the two.

[slingergame] DM asks, "Throwing is DEX, right?"

[Crows-Nest] Shaborys says, "oh! Ok. I thought maybe you missed my comment about the dice."

[slingergame] Vraklul says, "They're Light, so you can pick DEX or STR."

DM rolls 1 20-sided die: 9 | 9 + 6 = 15

Shaborys assumes this nice looking human won't cheat, and goes inside to play.

[slingergame] DM says, "We'll just say the higher roll wins"

[slingergame] DM says (to rashawndra), "Does this mean you detect *everyone's thoughts* at once"

Vraklul rolls 1 20-sided die: 20 | 20 + 7 = 27

[Crows-Nest] Quarion says, "hahahah"

[Crows-Nest] Rashawndra asks, "I think I have to do it one by one?"

Vraklul sheepishly blushes. He didn't mean to show them up quite so much.

[slingergame] Rashawndra says, "I think if I do a mass thing,it's more 'are there thinking entities here'."

[slingergame] DM exclaims (at shaborys), "The DM does NOT make mstiakeas!"

[slingergame] Rashawndra says, "so I scan from one to the next, starting with the red boots."

Vraklul collects the axes so they can keep playing. Say, best three out of five? "So, what brings you to these parts?"

DM asks, "Wow, excellent throw! Are you also a merc?"

DM exclaims, "Best of three, sure!"

Vraklul says, "Nah, I'm just travelling with some friends. One of them is from down south, and he's visiting home."

Vraklul says, "So you're a professional merc, huh? That must be exciting."

[slingergame] DM says (to rashawndra), "To make it short, most people are worried about the road being safe, or like the food, or making eyes at other guests. The mercs are concerned with reports of a gnoll war party on a farm a few miles to the west. They're gonna give them a day to plunder it, then move in, clear it out and check for valuables"

(From DM) You know notice he's very young. He puffs out his chest. "Yeah! I've joined the red boots! Gnolls are gonna fear me!"

Vraklul asks, "Congrats, man! How long have you been at it?"

[slingergame] Rashawndra says, "Oh, pfft."

[slingergame] Rashawndra asks, "Is this mostly the leadership of the group? Are they all in on the plan?"

[slingergame] Vraklul says, "I suspect my pal here probably doesn't know the plan yet."

[slingergame] DM says, "Basically, it's their pland and seems to be the usual routine."

[slingergame] Vraklul says, "At least, he still sounds like he might not have had all the idealism ground out of him yet."

Tibrul says, "I'm Tibrul by the way.(Vrak? Nice to meet you.) I've only been at it a month or so, but soon I'm gonna partake in my first raid."

Vraklul says, "Oh, your first time? Let me give you some tips..."

DM exclaims, "Oh? Thanks!"

Vraklul shows Tib a few techniques for not getting hurt so much in a fight.

Tibrul says, "Is a quick learner, and doesn't mind getting thrown around, but you're not sure he's getting all that rage business."

Vraklul says, "Nice dodge! Yeah, some of this stuff takes a few years to get the hang of. But I think you're gonna do just fine."

Vraklul says, "Oh, and the most important tip I have: always make sure you're on the side of the good guys."

DM says, "Thanks, Vrak! Man, why don't you join us? The pay is pretty good, and you get to kill gnolls."

Rashawndra sighs, lets the spell expire after getting what she can from it (after the minute is up), then goes down to talk to the red boots.

Tibrul says, "I mean, how more of a good guy can you be?"

[slingergame] DM asks (of shaborys), "Are you playing with them?"

Vraklul says, "Oh, I don't really need much money. I'm happy just helping out people who need it."

[slingergame] DM asks (of quarion), "And what are you doing?"

Quarion will follow Rashawndra just in case a fight breaks out.

[slingergame] Shaborys says, "Yes"

Vraklul says, "If I see someone getting beat up by a gnoll, I'm happy to step in and help out. I've been lucky enough that I can get by without being paid for it."

Vraklul exclaims, "But I know not everyone's that lucky!"

DM says (to shaborys), "As you go downstairs, three of them are rolling dice in a corner, while the rest gets drunk at their main table."

[Crows-Nest] Quarion says, "So basically I chaperone Rush"

Shaborys sidles up to their table. "Mind if I join you?"

[slingergame] Rashawndra says, "I am OK with not going into excruciating detail with my conversation; my basic plan is to compliment them on being willing to fight the gnolls, talk about how everyone must appreciate how they're doing so much to help, ask them why they got into the business in the first place. Basically try to remind them that being good people is nice."

Tibrul says, "But why do it for free, when you can get paid for it?""

[slingergame] Rashawndra exclaims, "but I am also OK with going into detail if that's what you want!"

[slingergame] Vraklul says, "This is the moment where Vrak's face shows that he's trying deeply to understand something."

[slingergame] DM says, "Well, I would kind of like to not have 3 conversations going at once."

[slingergame] Rashawndra says, "Right."

[slingergame] Rashawndra exclaims, "Wait or elide is OK with me!"

[slingergame] Vraklul says, "(That is: why people worry so much about money, and if there's any reason he should be worrying about it too.)"

[slingergame] Shaborys says, "It's shiny and has a satisfying heft."

[slingergame] Rashawndra says, "Also, if I could use Detect Thoughts to get an advantage on a Persuasion roll, that'd be nifty."

[slingergame] DM says, "So, here's your impression: These guys are ... frat boys. (Though they have members of all genders and a lot of different races). Boastful, maybe careless? they kill gnolls, sure, but you can#t find the slightest hint of idealism behind it. It's a job to them, and they don't much care for the whole conflict unless it pays them."

Vraklul shrugs. "I guess for one thing, it means I get to do what I want. If someone wants me to kill a gnoll, and it turns out that particular gnoll ends up actually being a nice guy, I don't have to do it."

[slingergame] Rashawndra asks, "Who's paying them?"

Tibrul says, "I have never heard of a nice gnoll! They go around pillaging. Killing people and eating them. They worship a demon lord. A nice gnoll, really. *scoffs unbelieving*""

Vraklul shrugs. "Yeah. I hear that a lot about orcs, too."

DM says (to shaborys), "The three eye you suspiciously. "Hm? We're playing for gold here. Let's see something shiny.""

[slingergame] Rashawndra says, "Because their current plan just sounds like being bandits, not like being paid to kill gnolls."

[slingergame] DM says (to rashawndra), "One of the local landowners, though the details are more than a bit sketchy."

[slingergame] DM says, "(Basically, your assessment seems closer to the truth)"

Shaborys jingles her coin pouch, opening it to pull out a small amount of coins. Enough to show she has enough to play, but not so much that anyone gets ideas.

Hunter disappears through an invisible gap in the MUD. You think you may have heard the sounds of chatting before the gap closed again.

Hunter arrives at home.

[slingergame] Rashawndra asks, "Does it seem like the landowner is OK with this?"

(From DM) The main guy gives a mocking gesture of invitation. "Do sit down. We're playing Mad Hobgoblin , I assume you're familiar? (you are)"

Shaborys just nods with a smirk and sits down.

[slingergame] DM says, "The redboots really don't care one way or the other. there is not jurisdiction here to cause them trouble."

[Crows-Nest] Vraklul says, "I was expecting her to say something like 'a little. is that the one with the horsies?'"

[Crows-Nest] Shaborys says, "Damn."

[slingergame] Vraklul asks, "I.e., go around looting and stuff, and if they can trick someone to pay them while doing it, bonus?"

[Crows-Nest] DM says, "I keep thinking we invented a name for a game before"

[Crows-Nest] Shaborys says, "In the other D&D game, I think, we did."

[Crows-Nest] Quarion says, "Scuttlewick"

[Crows-Nest] Vraklul says, "Scuttlewick? That one's a card game, though."

[Crows-Nest] Quarion says, "(Jota's finest creation)"

[Crows-Nest] Vraklul says, "Timing."

[slingergame] DM says, "yeah"

[slingergame] Shaborys says, "Please let this be a charisma (bluffing) or dexterity (somehow) dice rolling game? :D"

[slingergame] DM asks (of shaborys), "Do you try to cheat?"

[slingergame] Shaborys says, "Sure. Just a little. While playing super dumb."

[slingergame] Vraklul asks, "Are you proficient at Deception?"

[slingergame] Shaborys says, "+7 on deception"

[slingergame] DM exclaims, "Roll it!"

[slingergame] Shaborys says, "Do I also get the dice proficiency? :)"

[slingergame] Shaborys says, "Or no because I'm cheating"

[slingergame] DM says, "I assume your proficiency at dice includes cheating :D"

[slingergame] Rashawndra says, "I think you are or aren't proficient at something that you're doing, even if it's through two different avenues."

[slingergame] DM says, "Yeah, you don't get two"

[slingergame] Shaborys says, "Ok"

Shaborys rolls 1 20-sided die: 16 | 16 + 7 = 23

[Crows-Nest] Quarion says, "Roll the dice to see how well you roll -- oh"

Shaborys looks at the dice. "Is that good?"

DM says, "Over the next half hour or so, you win 1d20 GP"

Shaborys rolls 1 20-sided die: 9 | 9

(From DM) After the red boot has lost for a while, he suddenly slams his fist on the table. "Bloody Hellspawn! I'm sure you're cheating!"

Shaborys blinks. "Who, me?"

(From DM) His friends get up simultaneously, which loosk well practiced. "Of course you!"

(From DM) A sudden silence fills the inn.

[slingergame] DM says, "You're pretty sure he didn't catch you."

Shaborys puts a hand up, kind of cowering.

[slingergame] Shaborys is totally playacting.

[slingergame] DM says, "(Just waiting if someone else wants to react)"

[slingergame] Vraklul says, "(I'm still outside throwing axes. And waiting to see how Tib reacts to the last bomb I dropped, but happy to wait for this to resolve first.)"

Rashawndra casts Minor Illusion so it looks like Shaborys is a little smaller, but even cuter than she already is.

(From DM) People around seem uncomfortable with what's going on, but there are like 20 Redboots here, so they keep quiet.

Rashawndra walks over.

(From DM) "You better pay us back our money, plus interest."

[slingergame] Quarion asks, "Can I explain to those people how, according to probability arcane theory, this streak of luck is to be expected?"

[slingergame] DM says, "ha ha ha"

[slingergame] DM says, "Sure"

Shaborys snorts, but cutely. "That's not going to happen."

[slingergame] Quarion says, "I'll do it."

[slingergame] DM says, "Roll Arcana"

Quarion rolls 1 20-sided die: 19 | 19 + 3 = 22

Rashawndra pats Shaborys on the shoulder. "Did you win again?" (to the other guys) "She gets lucky some times. Surely big strong mercenaries like yourself have lost money a time or two!"

Quarion steps out of the shadows. 'Gentlemen, allow me to explain some minor subtleties.'

Rashawndra says, "I'm sure you'll get it back."

(From DM) "Isn't it, though? We are the law here and - "*he is suddenly interrupted by Quarion giving a long and complicated explanation*

Shaborys nods at Rush, not taking her eyes off the mercs.

Rashawndra's eyes sparkle back.

DM says, "While the main guy is distracted, the other two eye our two tieflings, but seem to be a bit unsure who to proceed. "Just give us the money and be done with it?""

Shaborys takes this moment to stand up.

Shaborys says, "I said no."

DM says, "Hands land on swords, and the silence has just gotten a bit quieter."

Rashawndra says, "You don't need the money. You're fine. And you should back off."

Rashawndra changes the minor illusion so that wisps of fire start to come from Shaborys's hair and hands, and a cold mist starts pooling around her own feet.

Quarion says, "Statistically, by playing this game you are bound to at some point lose X amount of gold."

DM says, "Hah, two tieflings and an old crone? Not likely."

[slingergame] Shaborys asks, "Ooh, fire. Can I try an intimidation?"

(From DM) Cannery has appeared between you, apparently ready to sling a spell. "Hey girls" she says quietly.

[slingergame] DM says, "Absolutely"

Shaborys rolls 1 20-sided die: 3 | 3 + 4 = 7

[slingergame] Shaborys says, "oh fuck"

[slingergame] (from Shaborys) Shaborys says, "I mean: "oh fu*k"

Rashawndra looks around. "Well, OK. You want to take this outside? And not bother these nice people? Who think you're doing a good work here in their land?

[slingergame] Rashawndra asks, "Persuasion to take it outside?"

Rashawndra rolls 1 20-sided die: 12 | 12 + 7 = 19

Quarion says, "... assuming the weighted average to be <A> where we take into account divine intervention by means of a coefficient of D..."

DM says, "Sure, let's take it outside. The main guy cuts off Quarion, and the three, plus the 20 from the main table get ready to go outside."

[Crows-Nest] Vraklul says (to Quarion), "Ha ha ha."

[slingergame] Shaborys says, "Shaborys is thinking "All this over 9 gold??? I could have taken twice that." But she also won't give it back."

[slingergame] DM says, "The boots are to blame, I'm sure."

Tibrul seems unsure how to react to that orc comment, but he is cut off as 23 mercs, Rush, Shaborys, Quarion and Cannery come outside.

Rashawndra walks out the front door with Shaborys, sees Vrak, says, "Hi, Vrak! We're going to need your help in a second," and casts Haste on both of them.

[slingergame] Quarion says, "I feel like this is the TPK our DM has been longing for"

[slingergame] Shaborys says, "Aw, no."

Vraklul exclaims, "Oh, hey guys!"

[slingergame] Quarion exclaims, "Epically outnumbered!"

[slingergame] Quarion says, "Wait."

Vraklul says, "This is my new friend, Tibrul."

DM says, "The captain of the Redboots struts forward. "So who of this sorry bunch is in command?""

[slingergame] Shaborys waits?

[slingergame] Rashawndra says, "We can fight them as they come out of the inn and jam them up in the doorway ;-)"

(From DM) 23 pairs of eyes glare at Tibrul. "um, hi. We were just" - "get over here"

Vraklul says, "Tib, these are Rashawndra, Quarion, and Sh-- my other friend."

Shaborys says, "Vrak, this nice, polite gentleman has accused me of cheating."

Vraklul asks, "Oh. Were you cheating?"

Shaborys says, "Of course not."

Vraklul asks, "How much money was it over?"

Shaborys says, "Nine gold."

Accuser says, "Of course she cheated. I saw it. And my friends saw it, too."

Quarion says, "I did explain to them the subtleties of multiplanal probability theory, but apparently I was too subtle."

Vraklul says, "Huh. That's not that much."

Vraklul asks (of Redboots), "How about we just buy all you guys a round or two, and call it even?"

Captain says, "Who are you jokers anyway?"

Shaborys twiches.

Vraklul says, "Oh, we're the Knights of Varg Gijak. I'm Vraklul."

Vraklul offers to shake the Captain's hand.

Rashawndra says (to Vrak), "That'd be nice, but they plan to raid a farmhouse west of hear after the gnolls raid it first. Instead of attacking the gnolls, like they're supposed to, and which they're being paid to do."

Vraklul says, "Huh. That doesn't seem very nice."

Shaborys huh.

Quarion says, "That's not very professional, I'd say."

Vraklul asks (of Tib), "Is that what you signed up for?"

Captain says, "shakes Vrak's hand, still a bit confused. He glowes at his people as he hears Rush'S comment. "What? Who talked?""

Rashawndra says, "No, they're basically a bunch of bandits, sadly."

Rashawndra exclaims (at Captain), "That was a guess, but I suppose I was right!"

Vraklul says, "That's too bad. We usually stick to beating up bad guys."

Vraklul says, "Like the time we killed a chain demon, or that time we destroyed that undead flaming skull."

[Crows-Nest] (from Shaborys) Vrak says, "No beer for bad guys."

Captain:glowers for a second, looks at his people, then back at you. "How about we take that round of drinks and pretend this never happened?"

Shaborys twitches again.

Vraklul says, "Sure, sounds great! I was starting to get thirsty myself."

[slingergame] Rashawndra asks, "How far away was that farmhouse?"

[slingergame] Shaborys says, "How much does a round of drinks for 23 people cost? :D"

[slingergame] DM says, "A few miles due west"

[slingergame] Rashawndra asks, "Could we get there and back tonight? Is it being raided as we speak?"

[slingergame] Quarion says (to Shaborys), "24. You forget Tibrul."

[slingergame] Shaborys asks, "Fine, fine. But like.. more than 9 gold?"

[slingergame] DM asks, "About 24 copper, I guess?"

[slingergame] Shaborys says, "oh."

[slingergame] Shaborys says, "Yeah, ok. I can do that."

[slingergame] Quarion says, "1 gold can go a long way"

[slingergame] Vraklul says, "Hee."

[slingergame] Rashawndra asks, "A gold is like 100 copper?"

DM says, "The mercs mosey back into the tavern. Tibrul looks back thoughtfully at you, but then follows."

[slingergame] Vraklul says, "Right."

[slingergame] Shaborys says, "yeah"

[slingergame] Quarion says, "I'd go to the farmhouse, protect some farmers"

DM says, "So that unpleasent evening ends with an uncomfortable round at the bar, and then you go back to the ship to sleep there."

[slingergame] Rashawndra says, "Yeah, I'm trying to come up with some way to go help the farmhouse tonight and be back by the morning for our trip."

[slingergame] DM says (to rashawndra), "Oh, your impression was that the gnolls have been there a while."

[slingergame] Vraklul says, "I would be on board with that."

[slingergame] Quarion says, "Ah, if they've been there a while there's probably nothing to be saved"

[slingergame] Rashawndra asks, "Would there still be fighting, or are they just looting at this point?"

[slingergame] DM says (to rashawndra), "I think I expressed that bit poorly: They've heard gnolls were attacking, decided to wait, and then after a day or two (which is tomorrow) go there, kill gnolls, get valuables"

[slingergame] Quarion says, "So basically it's too late."

[slingergame] Quarion says, "Sadly."

[slingergame] DM says, "(plus bonus for killed gnolls)"

[slingergame] DM says, "Alas"

[slingergame] Quarion says, "At least it sets the scene."

[slingergame] Rashawndra says, "OK, that makes sense."

[slingergame] Rashawndra asks, "If we attacked tonight, would they be deprived of a reason to go?"

[slingergame] DM asks, "You mean the redboots would be deprived of a reason to go to the farmhouse?"

[slingergame] Rashawndra says, "And we could get the gnoll bonus for ourselves."

[slingergame] Rashawndra says, "Right."

[slingergame] DM says, "Since they are planning to go there in the morning, they would need to know beforehand."

[slingergame] Rashawndra says, "Right, when we come back in the morning."

[slingergame] Quarion says, "Being a Knight isn't about earning cash for bringing back the heads of gnolls."

[slingergame] Rashawndra says, "Yeah, I'm OK with donating that to the inn or whatever."

[slingergame] Rashawndra says, "But keeping itout of the hands of the mercs seems nice."

[slingergame] Vraklul says, "Yeah, if there were a chance to protect the farmers, I'd be all for it."

[slingergame] (from Shaborys) Shaborys says, "Oh."

[slingergame] Vraklul says, "But if it's just a matter of looting for the sake of keeping the money away from the mercs, I dunno."

[slingergame] Quarion says, "I'd side with Vrak on this one."

[slingergame] Rashawndra says, "And stopping them from looting."

[slingergame] Rashawndra says, "We're not looting."

[slingergame] Vraklul says, "(Of course, I'm partly thinking from an OOC perspective of wanting to maximize Tibrul's chances of switching to our side. If he feels we double-crossed them, that's less likely.)"

[slingergame] Quarion says, "Yeah, the raid needs to happen for Tibrul to see the redboots for what they really are."

[slingergame] Rashawndra says, "We could tell them we're heading out tonight and they're welcome to come with us, as long as they don't further loot the place."

[slingergame] Vraklul says (to Rush), "That works."

[slingergame] Quarion says, "Well, I won't object to killing gnolls."

[slingergame] Vraklul says, "(And we don't try to undercut their commission.)"

[slingergame] Quarion says, "As long as it doesn't impede our journey, why not"

[Crows-Nest] Vraklul says, "DM sobs."

[slingergame] Rashawndra says, "(we don't have to play out the whole battle, either ;-)"

[slingergame] Quarion says, "Since we have 24 redboots to aid us, it'd be silly to play it out turn by turn, anyhow"

[slingergame] DM says, "I see no way this ends well for you, but sure."

[slingergame] Rashawndra asks (of DM), "What seems amiss?"

[slingergame] Rashawndra asks, "Are the gnolls harder to fight than we think?"

[slingergame] Rashawndra asks, "Are the mercs tougher than we think?"

[slingergame] DM says, "The redboots are major assholes. When you got here and clean the place for you, nice. Will they loot? Well, now you four are alone with 24 of them at an isolated farmhouse."

[slingergame] Shaborys says, "Yeah..."

[slingergame] Quarion says, "Let's not do that."

[slingergame] Rashawndra says, "Well, we were about to fight them anyway ;-)"

[slingergame] Vraklul asks, "So you're saying that there's a chance they'll attack us, and that there'll end up being one fewer band of assholes roaming around...?"

[slingergame] Quarion asks, "I have an intelligence of 17, can I at the very least try and judge how this would fare?"

[slingergame] Vraklul asks, "Also, I assume that this OOC conversation is an approximate reflection of some IC conversation that's actually taking place in our room at the inn?"

[slingergame] DM says (to vraklul), "That seems a fair assumption."

[slingergame] Rashawndra asks (of DM), "Does it seem a better idea to secure the farmhouse on our own, find the farmers who fled and put them back in place, then come back and announce this at the inn?"

[slingergame] Shaborys says, "We went back to the ship to sleep, but yeah."

[slingergame] Shaborys asks, "So we've got Cannery possibly overhearing?"

[slingergame] Shaborys says, "(Said the DM earlier.)"

[slingergame] Vraklul exclaims, "And she might be able to provide good advice!"

[slingergame] DM says, "Yeah, unless you compliment her out."

[slingergame] Rashawndra says, "Yeah, she's welcome at the planning session."

[slingergame] Vraklul says, "Advice like 'I know this area. This is a bad idea. Trust me.'"

[slingergame] Quarion says, "I assume Cannery was saying IC what the DM was saying OOC"

[slingergame] Vraklul says (to Quarion), "Ha."

[slingergame] Rashawndra says, "I was thinking the same thing ;-)"

[slingergame] Quarion says, "'The redboots are major assholes' is definitely something she'd say"

[slingergame] Rashawndra says, "(and yeah, if C wants to talk us out of it, that's OK with me.)"

[slingergame] DM says, "Then it was Cannery who pointed out to maybe not further antagonize the mercs. And since this is a war zone, this won't probably the last bad thing you come across. And you can't help everyone, at least not without losing track of your mission."

[slingergame] Quarion will have to agree with Cannery.

Rashawndra says (to Cannery), "Yeah, but if we can help a little bit and sleep on the boat tomorrow vs. sleeping tonight and being bored tomorrow, that still seems like a win."

[slingergame] DM says, "And if you antagonize these redboots and *win*, there just needs to be one survivor and you'll have the whole of them after you. (They are a major merc outfit in the region.)"

[slingergame] Shaborys says, "Good point."

[slingergame] Rashawndra asks, "Does 'fighting the gnolls tonight' count as antagonizing them?"

[slingergame] Quarion says, "I think so."

Vraklul, by this point in the conversation, after listening to Cannery's advice, is sprawled out on the floor in the middle of the room and starting to drift off to sleep.

[slingergame] DM says, "Also, there probably won't be any farmers to return the farm too. They will most likely be food,"

[slingergame] Shaborys says, "They wanted to pick a fight over thinking I cheated over 9 gold. They're going to be pissed if we fuck this up for them."

[slingergame] Rashawndra says, "If there's nobody to help, then OK."

DM says, "And so, after a long and heated debate, you drift off to sleep..."

Quarion sleeps uneasily. Memories of gnoll raids gnaw at him...

[slingergame] Rashawndra says, "Although at that point, I sort of want to just scout around and see if anyone's alive/fled the area, and rescue them and have them come with us."

Vraklul sleeps pretty easily. But then, he usually does.

Shaborys sleep.

DM exclaims, "Everyone roll perception!"

Rashawndra finds the room way too stiflingly hot, and slips up to the crow's nest in the middle of the night, and sleeps there instead.

Quarion meditates to quiet his mind.

Quarion rolls 1 20-sided die: 4 | 4 + 2 = 6

Rashawndra rolls 1 20-sided die: 13 | 13 + 3 = 16

Shaborys rolls 1 20-sided die: 10 | 10 + 6 = 16

Quarion was deep in his own thoughts and didn't hear a thing.

Vraklul rolls 1 20-sided die: 5 | 5 + 0 = 5

DM exclaims, "Stabby and Rush!"

DM says, "You wake up, because something seems wrong. As you blink out of sleep, you see the 3 members of the crew silently jump overboard."

[Crows-Nest] Vraklul says, "I'm thinking of a four-letter word."

Shaborys.....

DM says, "And the boat seems adrift in the middle of the river ..."

[Crows-Nest] Vraklul says, "And it starts with 'G'."

DM says, "And you smell something ..."

[Crows-Nest] Shaborys Baa.

DM asks, "Fire?"

DM says, "TO BE CONTINUED"

[slingergame] Shaborys says, "Woo"

Vraklul snores.

[slingergame] Rashawndra asks, "Do the crew seems to be OK?"

[slingergame] Quarion says, "They are overboard."

[slingergame] Quarion says, "They're in the river right now."

[slingergame] DM exclaims, "They jumped overboard silently!"

[slingergame] Rashawndra asks, "But swimming away, or stunned and drowning?"

[slingergame] DM says, "Swimming away"

[slingergame] Vraklul says, "That was a fun episode, despite threats of it being filler-ish."

[slingergame] Quarion says, "If there had been less than 18 bandits, we could have solo'd them."

[slingergame] Vraklul asks (of DM), "Out of curiosity, were you prepared to potentially have us fighting two dozen mercenaries, or were you that convinced that we would get out of it?"

[slingergame] DM says, "I'm sorry that was a bit rough near the end. But we have some much plot to go through and I didn't want to spent a session on a distraction."

[slingergame] DM says, "I was confident you would get out of it."

[slingergame] Rashawndra asks, "Without fighting?"

[slingergame] DM says, "Hm, I feel when the DM throws superior numbers at you, the hint is to not fight them :-)"

[slingergame] DM says, "(But, as a player, I would've probably liked to fight them, too)"

[slingergame] Rashawndra says, "Oh, I assumed they were like all level 1 or something."

[slingergame] Rashawndra says, "If they were actually supposed to be stronger than us, I didn't get that sense at all."

[slingergame] Vraklul says (to DM), "Huh. Interesting. I didn't get the hint at all."

[slingergame] DM exclaims (at vraklul), "I noticed!"

[slingergame] DM says, "I feel bad for clunkily railroading :/"

[slingergame] Quarion says, "I think the problem is you mentioned a 'specific' number, rather than generically saying there were a lot of them"

[slingergame] Shaborys says, "We can handle 24, but if there were 25, nah. :D"

[slingergame] Quarion says, "As soon as you said 23, I was calculating how many of them I could Slow down."

[slingergame] DM says, "ha ha"

[slingergame] DM says, "I guess I shouldn't be surprised"

[slingergame] DM says, "Anyway, I'm sorry and promise to try to be better in the future"

[slingergame] Rashawndra says, "Yeah, if you said the leader was level 20 or something, that would have also been a hint."

[slingergame] Shaborys says, "No worries."

[slingergame] Vraklul says, "I don't think it's in Vraklul's character to be terribly concerned about superior numbers. On the other hand, it's very much in his character to not go killing people without a pretty good reason."

[slingergame] Shaborys asks, "But how do you hint level 20 without meta gaming in OOC?"

[slingergame] Vraklul says (to Shaborys), "By having him throw a knife/axe/etc. at the wall."

[slingergame] Rashawndra says, "I assume there's no way, and you have to say 'He looks like he's been fighting for a long time. OOC, you'd estimate he's at least level 17.'"

[slingergame] Vraklul says, "And rolling a 1d20+10 for it."

[slingergame] DM says (to rashawndra), "Noted"

[slingergame] DM says, "Or maybe "You're sure he could take you easily, also, there are three skulls next to his health bar"

[slingergame] Vraklul says, "Anyway. I had fun. I hope we meet Tib again."

[slingergame] Rashawndra says, "Heh, yeah."

[slingergame] Quarion says, "I liked my arcane probability moment."

[slingergame] DM says (to rashawndra), "I hope all that didn't sour the session too much for you"

[slingergame] DM says (to quarion), "Yeah, that was fun"

[slingergame] Rashawndra exclaims, "No, not at all!"

[slingergame] Rashawndra says, "I was mostly thinking that Rush would want to help, and then wondering OOC how to do that without taking up a lot of gaming time."

[Crows-Nest] Quarion says, "I love how Rush's 'No not at all!' comes right after 'Yeah that was fun'"

[slingergame] Rashawndra says (to Q), "Ha"

[slingergame] Vraklul says, "(Also, as an aside: the whole 'bounded accuracy' of 5e means that even if they *were* all level 1, they would probably have been pretty serious opposition.)"

[slingergame] Rashawndra says (to V), "Yeah, I don't have a very good sense of that, either."

[slingergame] DM says, "Allright, As mentioned earlier, I should really be asleep. G'night"

[slingergame] DM says, "(And thanks guys!)"

[slingergame] Vraklul says, "My estimate is that if, e.g., 23 level 1 characters each attempted to attack Quarion in the same round, they would probably be enough to take him out."

[slingergame] Quarion says, "Sweet dreams :-)"

[slingergame] Rashawndra says, "(IC, wanting to help, and being convinced there's nothing she could do is a good character moment, too.)"

[slingergame] Vraklul says, "Good night."

[slingergame] Rashawndra exclaims, "'night!"

[slingergame] DM says (to rashawndra), "Yay, I hope so"

[slingergame] Quarion says, "night night dear DM"

[slingergame] Shaborys says, "G'night!"

Rashawndra exits stage left.

Rashawndra has disconnected.

[slingergame] Quarion says, "fortunately next session is a Saturday"

[slingergame] DM exclaims, "Yeah, I have a week to stat 23 mercs!"

[slingergame] Quarion says, "hahaha"

[slingergame] Quarion says, "twist: they're all personalities of the same merc"

[slingergame] Quarion says, "whose mind is split"

Pip goes home.

Shaborys goes east.