Fireday dawned crisp, bright, & cheerful. Not many in the Falamora household marked its coming however, as most had already been up for hours preparing for today's supper. The night before, Sir Dealann, Neroon, Baram (the steward) rode to Sir Dealann's estate along with two professional servers and a minstrel hired for the occasion. By mid-afternoon, as is the custom, the guests began to arrive by carriage and horse. First to arrive are your former in-laws, Master & Mrs Soruukei. They are greeted by your Aunt Dortha, and both are pleased to be invited to a more aristocratic gathering then they usually attend, thanking her profusely and sipping their watered wine a little too often. Next came Sir Dealann's neighbours, Sir Hainur and his wife Lady Kivua on a pair of fine horses. Soon two carraiges arrive, disgorging a handful of Zoan potentates: Lantern Xookaer and his wife Mirena, Sir Taanaur Loolaika, Commander of the Children of Light in Zoa, accompanied by Torch Neira Falay of the Assembly (whose presence is a bit of mystery) and
Council Elder Falein, Master of the Army and the militia commander who rescued Sir Dealann as an infant. Last to arrive are Captain Bloodsword and his wife Mawoo, who came with their eldest daughter, Tirraka.
With everyone mingling in a friendly manner, Neroon seems a bit nervous in the presence of his church superiors. He avoids speaking to them directly until approached (more like cornered) by Lantern Xookaer.
"Surely you realize I am not to be feared, Neroon?" asks Lantern Xookaer "despite my brother's unfounded opinions, I am not of the same mind. I'm sure the misunderstanding you and he had is long past. You should contact your cousin Emmaere some time, I'm sure he would be pleased to here from you.
"Now I must reveal why Torch Falay travelled all this way - it was not just to impinge on Sir Dealann's hospitality. Sir Dealann - if I may interrupt your gathering for a moment?" Hearing no objection from his host, Lantern Xookaer beckons Torch Falay over and motions for Neroon to kneel. The elf woman glides over to Neroon and Lantern Xookaer. Conversation stops - everyone is looking at the three clerics, Neroon kneeling in the centre flanked by the burly, greying Lantern and the willowy yellow-haired Torch.
"Neroon, Spark of the Assembly" announces Torch Falay "you have shown much promise as a believer. Not only have you shown proper diligence in the following of the tenets of your faith, making observances and tithe, you have defeated the followers of the Harvester on two occasions and even built a shrine in a far land. Even as you have done these things in the name Neatuir, the Eternal Lantern, so has Neatuir chosen to act through you - at your hand and by the gawd's divine will 81 new followers swore themselves to our faith in our own city. For this miracle, we command you to put off your white novitiate robes and take up the yellow robes of a Flame of the Assembly, and I bestow upon you the gold chain of your new rank." Torch Falay slips the chain over Neroon's bowed head. Lantern Xookaer holds out his hand. "With your obeisance I confirm this promotion, and encourage you to continue in your faith with all of your heart" after Neroon kissed the proffered ring, Lantern Xookaer raises him to his feet. "A joyous occasion! Now if our host will allow it, then let us eat!"
At Sir Dealann's assent, couches are quickly put out in small groups for all the guests, and dinner is served. As the most prominent guest, Councillor Falein is seated next to Sir Dealann, along with Sir Taanaur, Sir Hainur, and Captain Bloodsword. The elf makes pleasant conversation, congraluting Dealann on the remarkable return of the Cup of Peace, and of the prestige he has brought to the Children of Light. He remarks to about how the estates in this region north of the city have grown in the time he has lived here - over 250 years, you find out. Falein is quite gregarious for an elf, but his humour is rougher than you might expect (He actually comes off as a bit of a boor), but for the company of country knights and a Captain of the Zoan navy Falein seems to fit right in. Towards the end of the evening, the councillor requests if Dealann might join him and Captain Bloodsword to partake in a bottle Ousoo brought from Falein's own estate. The three of you repair to a small sitting room off the foyer, with only Falein's servant in attendance.
"The return of the Cup has done me a great service, Sir Dealann. I am very pleased because it gives me an opportunity to pursue a grand alliance amongst the cities of Reanaaria. I have a councillor Werlen's ear in this and I can tell you he is greatly pleased as well.
"Your letter, however, has caused quite a stir in the Council. If there were to be a vote today I think it would not pass - expanding Zoan territory raises fears in many of a return to Tyranny and the days of our Empire. If Council were to endorse this officially, it may even incite the other cities to act against us.
"I think it is best to proceed more cautiously - it would be better if we delayed bringing this to the Council until we can gather more support, and perhaps present the Councillors with an established fact rather than an uncertain - and costly - endeavour."
Captain Bloodsword breaks in. "I was surprised when the Councillor talked to me about this, but my next patrol on the Erne's Beak will be South, and I have agreed to use my discretion to go off course and investigate the keep and harbour and make a report back to my superior, the Master of the Bay, as well as the esteemed Councillor. Further intelligence can only aid the situation, and if it as Dealann says perhaps we can obtain the agreement of the Navy to this scheme.
After a sip of Ousoo, Falein continues "I will also divert a small part of my funds" Falein continues "so that you, Dealann, may organize as a private citizen, a further exploration of these lands in order substantiate the claims that have been made. I believe councillor Werlen may do something similar, although I have yet to obtain his firm agreement."
"Dealann - consider carefully this suggestion, and perhaps solicit the opinions of your colleagues. If this can be done by private means then we need not concern ourselves too much with the opinion of the Council until much later, when the base is established and the utility of it can be made clear. You need not go yourselves, I will trust whomever you choose to send. Now, I think perhaps we should rejoin the party - don't you?"
4.6.10
A social call - Pelsday, 23rd of Famine, YND 744
Sir Dealann and Neroon walked up the steps to the orphanage and rang the bronze knocker on the oak doors. After a few moments, the door creaks open and a wimpled head pokes around the opening, at about the height of your navel. Big, elfin eyes look up at you. Seeing you are not servants come to the wrong entrance, the small figure steps out onto the landing. "Can I help your sirs?" she says, the depth of gnomish nun's voice betrays her age, and your realize that though small she must be well into her middle years.
Neroon steps forward "Dear sister, would you take us to his holiness, the Abbott? We would like to visit one of your charges, the child Gwilly." There is a slight hesitation before the nun answers, "Yes, of course. Follow me."
"Why the hesitation Sister? Is all not well?" asks Sir Dealann as you follow the small figure down the corridor.
"You really must talk to the Abbott," she replies "he'll be in his office." She ushers you into a sparsely furnished office, where you take seats on a long couch. There is large desk stack high with papers. An ink pot and several pens poke out from amongst the piles. Small windows high up in the walls let in air and light. After a moment or two, a small, balding man with spectacles - who you take to be the Abbott - bustles into the room. He sits down and looks at you across the desk, peering out between the stacks of paper like he was looking through the crenel of a castle wall.
"hmmm... Gwilly. Of course." The Abbott pauses. "We sent to you at the Circle of Gawds, but you were away."
"What happened?" demands Sir Dealann.
"Yes, well. Things were very well for the first seven-day, Gwilly excelled at her lessons and made several friends amongst the other children. She had a wonderful impact on the whole orphanage, actually.
"But then the second week, Gwilly seemed bored and distracted. She was still kind to the children, but refused to do any lessons. She had an argument with one of the Sisters, and was sent to her cell for reflection. When we checked on her a few hours later, she was gone.
"You must understand that a child of Gwilly's particular nature is difficult to confine. We were not going to restrain the girl or bind her wings. We warned the Shields the child was missing, and asked that her description be sent to the surrounding towns, but that was 2 weeks gone and no word as yet. I suspect we won't hear from her unless, or until, she chooses to speak with us.
"Of course we will return the money you left in our charge for her care and dowry. Sister Agatha will give you a letter of requisition so you can retrieve the funds from the Parish of the Prolific Coin, who keeps charge of our financial matters.
"I wish I had better news - I'm sorry. The only consolation I can give you is that Gwilly is a remarkable child with powers and abilities that belie her years. I do not think she will come to harm unless she seeks it out. I suspect she has gone to the gnomish communities deep in the Fautee Woods - she would be most welcome there.
"If you have any questions I will be happy to answer them, but otherwise I must go about my day. Don't forget to speak with Sister Agatha on your way out."
Neroon steps forward "Dear sister, would you take us to his holiness, the Abbott? We would like to visit one of your charges, the child Gwilly." There is a slight hesitation before the nun answers, "Yes, of course. Follow me."
"Why the hesitation Sister? Is all not well?" asks Sir Dealann as you follow the small figure down the corridor.
"You really must talk to the Abbott," she replies "he'll be in his office." She ushers you into a sparsely furnished office, where you take seats on a long couch. There is large desk stack high with papers. An ink pot and several pens poke out from amongst the piles. Small windows high up in the walls let in air and light. After a moment or two, a small, balding man with spectacles - who you take to be the Abbott - bustles into the room. He sits down and looks at you across the desk, peering out between the stacks of paper like he was looking through the crenel of a castle wall.
"hmmm... Gwilly. Of course." The Abbott pauses. "We sent to you at the Circle of Gawds, but you were away."
"What happened?" demands Sir Dealann.
"Yes, well. Things were very well for the first seven-day, Gwilly excelled at her lessons and made several friends amongst the other children. She had a wonderful impact on the whole orphanage, actually.
"But then the second week, Gwilly seemed bored and distracted. She was still kind to the children, but refused to do any lessons. She had an argument with one of the Sisters, and was sent to her cell for reflection. When we checked on her a few hours later, she was gone.
"You must understand that a child of Gwilly's particular nature is difficult to confine. We were not going to restrain the girl or bind her wings. We warned the Shields the child was missing, and asked that her description be sent to the surrounding towns, but that was 2 weeks gone and no word as yet. I suspect we won't hear from her unless, or until, she chooses to speak with us.
"Of course we will return the money you left in our charge for her care and dowry. Sister Agatha will give you a letter of requisition so you can retrieve the funds from the Parish of the Prolific Coin, who keeps charge of our financial matters.
"I wish I had better news - I'm sorry. The only consolation I can give you is that Gwilly is a remarkable child with powers and abilities that belie her years. I do not think she will come to harm unless she seeks it out. I suspect she has gone to the gnomish communities deep in the Fautee Woods - she would be most welcome there.
"If you have any questions I will be happy to answer them, but otherwise I must go about my day. Don't forget to speak with Sister Agatha on your way out."
3.6.10
Navear's Story - 20-28 of Famine, YND 744
Entry 1 - Your days of shore leave are filled with the details of setting up Halaan with a forge in which to create a new Coin of Power, valuing the party's treasure & trade goods, and re-purchasing the equipment you lost in the shipwreck.
It turns out these simple tasks are a lot more difficult than you expected, and you discover a lot about the City of Zoa and its guilds. Setting out to purchase a set of jeweler's tools you find that no merchant will sell you a set of tools without verifiying your guild credentials. Not being a guild member, you are turned away a few times, learning in the process that the guilds seem to control a lot of what goes on in Zoa. There are a lot of guilds, seemingly for all professions and trades - even the Clerics and Mages are organized into guilds And they have a lot more power than guilds typically do - not only can they restrict the sale of tools to members only, they can also levy a 10% tax on all tools as well.
Entry into a trade guild is no mean feat - typically a Zoan child starts an apprenticeship at the age of 10 or 12 years old, and his family often pays a tuition to the Master for his time. After 8-10 years training he is tested for a journeyman's rank and allowed to enter the guild. You could shortcut the process by finding a Master willing to test you, but he would command a significant fee for the service. The professional guilds - such as the Merchants or Mages - are easier to join, one just need to declare an intent to settle in Zoa and pay the guild dues, after the applicant demonstrates they have the relevant skills and assets required to succeed. Geolain even suggests you join the wizard's guild, especially if you are going to continue to summon horses in the street. Geolain also lets you in on part of the secret of why he lives in the Dregs.
"Its a lot easier to obtain some rarer items in the Dregs, Navear" he says as you help him setup some alchemical apparati under Halaan's direction. "why don't you head for the shops along Harbourfront Lane near the Low Market and look for your goods there. I'm sure you'll find what you need."
Taking his advice, you explore the neighbourhood around the low market (taking care to guard your purse) and find a number of shops selling a bit of this and that. After some surreptitious discussion, you manage to purchase a set of Jeweler's tools and book binder's implements (and a set of thieves picks on the sly).
It turns out these simple tasks are a lot more difficult than you expected, and you discover a lot about the City of Zoa and its guilds. Setting out to purchase a set of jeweler's tools you find that no merchant will sell you a set of tools without verifiying your guild credentials. Not being a guild member, you are turned away a few times, learning in the process that the guilds seem to control a lot of what goes on in Zoa. There are a lot of guilds, seemingly for all professions and trades - even the Clerics and Mages are organized into guilds And they have a lot more power than guilds typically do - not only can they restrict the sale of tools to members only, they can also levy a 10% tax on all tools as well.
Entry into a trade guild is no mean feat - typically a Zoan child starts an apprenticeship at the age of 10 or 12 years old, and his family often pays a tuition to the Master for his time. After 8-10 years training he is tested for a journeyman's rank and allowed to enter the guild. You could shortcut the process by finding a Master willing to test you, but he would command a significant fee for the service. The professional guilds - such as the Merchants or Mages - are easier to join, one just need to declare an intent to settle in Zoa and pay the guild dues, after the applicant demonstrates they have the relevant skills and assets required to succeed. Geolain even suggests you join the wizard's guild, especially if you are going to continue to summon horses in the street. Geolain also lets you in on part of the secret of why he lives in the Dregs.
"Its a lot easier to obtain some rarer items in the Dregs, Navear" he says as you help him setup some alchemical apparati under Halaan's direction. "why don't you head for the shops along Harbourfront Lane near the Low Market and look for your goods there. I'm sure you'll find what you need."
Taking his advice, you explore the neighbourhood around the low market (taking care to guard your purse) and find a number of shops selling a bit of this and that. After some surreptitious discussion, you manage to purchase a set of Jeweler's tools and book binder's implements (and a set of thieves picks on the sly).
Neroon's Story - 20-28 of Famine, YND 744
Entry 1 - During the first two days of your return you are very busy caring for the Dejy slaves. They were overawed with your display of holy power in the ship's hold, and gather around you everytime you visit. Using your divine abilities, you move among them healing the wounded and tending the sick. You even manage to teach them some Merchant's Tongue, enough to so that they understand your preaching of the Canon of the Eternal Lantern, glorifying the light of day urging battle against the darkness of night, and the creatures that hide within it.
From the Dejy you learn that they lived far to the south, and had been on the ship for many days, perhaps a month or more. They lived a relatively peaceful life, hunting & gathering in the jungle and fishing on the coast. They had heard stories of traders in ships coming with metal items and exchanging for animal skins, ivory, and tropical hardwood. They assumed that the slavers were traders when they appeared in the cove where there village was. They are afraid of what may happen to them, amazed at the stone city they can see from the deck, and all are grieving for the children and elders lost in the raid. One of them tells you a legend in their tribe of a great warrior who defeated a dark shadow to save the sun. Seizing on this link, one by one you win the Dejy over to the worship of the Eternal Lantern. As each of them professes devotion to your Gawd you lead them up out of the dark ship's hold and into the sunlight, a symbolic cleansing as well as welcome relief from the misery below decks.
For the rest of your time, you spend your evenings writing in your diary, studying the Canon of the Eternal Lantern and other religious writings available to you, and visiting with your friend Belar on the docks. He is most interested in your tales of different lands and especially of the Obakasek jungle. In exchange, Belar teaches you some of the new wrestling tricks and tells you of the goings on around town. On your walks back to your quarters you are often stopped and asked to officiate on the local wrestling matches. These can get quite serious as neighbourhood champions move from street to street accepting challenges, and the even hand of a holy man is needed to adjudicate.
Studying the logs and charts of the slave ship don't leave you with much more than what Finn had already surmised. But in Cosulting with Wien and Belar, you are reasonably certain with the log and charts a ship could be sent back to the tribe's homelands. Perhaps you can encourage some of your brethren to journey with them and continue their religious education?
From the Dejy you learn that they lived far to the south, and had been on the ship for many days, perhaps a month or more. They lived a relatively peaceful life, hunting & gathering in the jungle and fishing on the coast. They had heard stories of traders in ships coming with metal items and exchanging for animal skins, ivory, and tropical hardwood. They assumed that the slavers were traders when they appeared in the cove where there village was. They are afraid of what may happen to them, amazed at the stone city they can see from the deck, and all are grieving for the children and elders lost in the raid. One of them tells you a legend in their tribe of a great warrior who defeated a dark shadow to save the sun. Seizing on this link, one by one you win the Dejy over to the worship of the Eternal Lantern. As each of them professes devotion to your Gawd you lead them up out of the dark ship's hold and into the sunlight, a symbolic cleansing as well as welcome relief from the misery below decks.
For the rest of your time, you spend your evenings writing in your diary, studying the Canon of the Eternal Lantern and other religious writings available to you, and visiting with your friend Belar on the docks. He is most interested in your tales of different lands and especially of the Obakasek jungle. In exchange, Belar teaches you some of the new wrestling tricks and tells you of the goings on around town. On your walks back to your quarters you are often stopped and asked to officiate on the local wrestling matches. These can get quite serious as neighbourhood champions move from street to street accepting challenges, and the even hand of a holy man is needed to adjudicate.
Studying the logs and charts of the slave ship don't leave you with much more than what Finn had already surmised. But in Cosulting with Wien and Belar, you are reasonably certain with the log and charts a ship could be sent back to the tribe's homelands. Perhaps you can encourage some of your brethren to journey with them and continue their religious education?
17.5.10
The assessment of the Slaver ship - Pelsday, 23rd of Famine, YND 744
At the request of Sir Dealaan, a shipwright from the Sinking Bay (the inner harbour where the ships are built) came to inspect the ship on your 3rd day in port. She spent about an hour checking it over and another hour talking to Captain Wien and Finn about the ship. When she's done, she spits on the deck and says "ach - the long and short o' it is the ship's shoddily built. She's full of knots, got fat lines, a sallow bow and looks like a dead hawg in a mud puddle. From the talk o' yer captain she handles like a dead hawg too. That she stayed afloat this long is a testament to the skill of those who piloted her.
"It'll cost about a 800 gp to fix the rigging and the storm damage, but on a whole this ship isn't much good - she's worth about 2,500gp but you'd probably get about half of that if ye were to sell her as is, maybe a little more if ye fixed 'er up."
With a gruff apology about not having better news, she hands you a docket certifying the work done and asks for her fee - 45sp for a full ship assessment.
"It'll cost about a 800 gp to fix the rigging and the storm damage, but on a whole this ship isn't much good - she's worth about 2,500gp but you'd probably get about half of that if ye were to sell her as is, maybe a little more if ye fixed 'er up."
With a gruff apology about not having better news, she hands you a docket certifying the work done and asks for her fee - 45sp for a full ship assessment.
An Offer of Freeddom - Diaday, 22nd of Famine, Year of the New Discovery 744
On the morning after the sale moratorium on the slaves has expired, Rundin, Sir Dealaan and Finn are asked to gather at the port master's office on the slave docks (where the slave ship is docked). You ask Navear to accompany you because of his professed knowledge of trade mercantile dealings. Waiting for you at the port master's office are Captain Wien, the Port Master who assessed your cargo on arrival and a grey-haired officer of the Slaver's Guild. Standing with the guild officer is a Hobgoblin, dressed in what appears to be a navy captain's uniform.
"I am Lailix Inaroo" the Guild officer says. "I am here today in my capacity as an officer of the Guild of Slavers, and I am prepared to make you an offer for your cargo." (Those of you local to Zoa recognize Lailix as a Council Elder and Mistress of the Vault - the equivalent of the Zoan mint). She hands you a formal looking ledger with the cargo of slaves annotated by quantity, race, and value:
Goods on offer:
40 criminals sentenced to slavery in Kalamar (35 humans, 1 half-hobgoblin, 4 half-orcs - all male)
1,080.00
26 male hobgoblins - prisoners of the Kors that were sold into slavery
1,501.50
1 massive male hobgoblin - a fearsome fighter;
536.25
81 Dejy Tribespeople (54 male, 27 female)
729.00
7 halflings (6 male, 1 female)
147.00
8 dwarves (all male & a note saying they are skilled craftsmen)
1,496.00
1 half-elf (adolescent female)
400.00
"all prices, of course, are in Zoan gold coin," continues Lailix after you have all looked at the document. "On the Port Master's authority, this offer will stand for 24 hours after which it will be reassessed based on the conditions of the market. You may also apply for a license to sell the slaves yourselves, or release them - though do the latter without providing for them in some way would almost certainly result in their returning to the condition of slavery. Inform the Port Master of your decision when you are ready. Good Day." Turning brusquely on her heel, she marches purposefuly from the office.
When the old woman is gone, the hobgoblin steps forward. In a guttural voice he announces "I am Malzuk, Captain of the Rostak's Bell - a keshow in the Zoan navy. I have been delegated to bring you counsel and to advise you of the Council's concerns regarding the fate of these hobgoblin slaves you have brought into the city." Turning to the Port Master, Malzuk asks him formally "Port Master Soruukei, may I have the private use of your office for a short time?"
"By all means, please do" answers the port master, a trifle nervously. As he scurries from the room, Malzuk stands at attention and gives the fist-to-heart salute of the Zoan Navy. When you are alone with this rather strange figure, the Hobgoblin continues. "You will notice the fair price for the hobgoblins offered by the slave guild. This is because the Navy has contracted to purchase these slaves from the guild should you sell them. They will train under me and should they prove worthy be enlisted in the Zoan navy, where they may eventually win their freedom." Malzuk pause to let this sink in. Then he goes on. "I am also obliged to tell you also that should you keep the hobgoblins as your own, the Council requires you to register with the guild of mercenaries as a Company of
Hireswords, for this can be the only use for such slaves. Further, the Council reminds you that a mercenary company may only have thirty members within the city walls at any given time; that they may not unsheath their weapons unless in their own defense; and that the sword tax is due from a slave's owner should the slave carry a blade within the city.
"Finally, I offer this advice to you - should you free the hobgoblins out of hand they will likely turn on you and your crew. A hobgoblin values nothing more than Honour, and should you give a gift so great as their freedom without their earning of it, they will have no respect for you. The only way they would be able to repay that debt and restore their Honour is with your blood. Do you have a decision? Or do you wish to consult privately?"
(Players can comment in character on the blog)
"I am Lailix Inaroo" the Guild officer says. "I am here today in my capacity as an officer of the Guild of Slavers, and I am prepared to make you an offer for your cargo." (Those of you local to Zoa recognize Lailix as a Council Elder and Mistress of the Vault - the equivalent of the Zoan mint). She hands you a formal looking ledger with the cargo of slaves annotated by quantity, race, and value:
Goods on offer:
40 criminals sentenced to slavery in Kalamar (35 humans, 1 half-hobgoblin, 4 half-orcs - all male)
1,080.00
26 male hobgoblins - prisoners of the Kors that were sold into slavery
1,501.50
1 massive male hobgoblin - a fearsome fighter;
536.25
81 Dejy Tribespeople (54 male, 27 female)
729.00
7 halflings (6 male, 1 female)
147.00
8 dwarves (all male & a note saying they are skilled craftsmen)
1,496.00
1 half-elf (adolescent female)
400.00
"all prices, of course, are in Zoan gold coin," continues Lailix after you have all looked at the document. "On the Port Master's authority, this offer will stand for 24 hours after which it will be reassessed based on the conditions of the market. You may also apply for a license to sell the slaves yourselves, or release them - though do the latter without providing for them in some way would almost certainly result in their returning to the condition of slavery. Inform the Port Master of your decision when you are ready. Good Day." Turning brusquely on her heel, she marches purposefuly from the office.
When the old woman is gone, the hobgoblin steps forward. In a guttural voice he announces "I am Malzuk, Captain of the Rostak's Bell - a keshow in the Zoan navy. I have been delegated to bring you counsel and to advise you of the Council's concerns regarding the fate of these hobgoblin slaves you have brought into the city." Turning to the Port Master, Malzuk asks him formally "Port Master Soruukei, may I have the private use of your office for a short time?"
"By all means, please do" answers the port master, a trifle nervously. As he scurries from the room, Malzuk stands at attention and gives the fist-to-heart salute of the Zoan Navy. When you are alone with this rather strange figure, the Hobgoblin continues. "You will notice the fair price for the hobgoblins offered by the slave guild. This is because the Navy has contracted to purchase these slaves from the guild should you sell them. They will train under me and should they prove worthy be enlisted in the Zoan navy, where they may eventually win their freedom." Malzuk pause to let this sink in. Then he goes on. "I am also obliged to tell you also that should you keep the hobgoblins as your own, the Council requires you to register with the guild of mercenaries as a Company of
Hireswords, for this can be the only use for such slaves. Further, the Council reminds you that a mercenary company may only have thirty members within the city walls at any given time; that they may not unsheath their weapons unless in their own defense; and that the sword tax is due from a slave's owner should the slave carry a blade within the city.
"Finally, I offer this advice to you - should you free the hobgoblins out of hand they will likely turn on you and your crew. A hobgoblin values nothing more than Honour, and should you give a gift so great as their freedom without their earning of it, they will have no respect for you. The only way they would be able to repay that debt and restore their Honour is with your blood. Do you have a decision? Or do you wish to consult privately?"
(Players can comment in character on the blog)
16.5.10
Dealann's Story - 19-20 of Famine, YND 744
Entry 1 - Upon your return to the Children's chapterhouse adjacent to the Cathedral, you request of your superior the privacy of the Chapterhouse library to meet with Baram, your Steward. High up and facing the harbour, the room has a warm, dry breeze that is a pleaseant relief from the muggy streets. Baram brings you up to date on the news from your estate - ploughing for the spring planting will start soon and the new maid, Adako, is fitting in well with the household. You instruct Baram to make provision for Ammeria (the young half-elf you rescued), the female sailor Lejla, and your Aunt to move to the country and discuss with him a few other plans that may require his skills (your entertainment plans, and your plans for the keep).
Reviewing the ledgers of your estate and the decisions of your steward give is a relaxing task and gives you a moment to center your thoughts, then you turn to the more pressing task of advising the Council of the keep and its possibilities. Finally, you pen a quick note to Lantern Xookaer and Councilor Werlen, and ask your chapter commander to support yor plans for the ceremony to repatriate the Cup of Peace.
Early the next day, you take Captain Wien and visit the families of the two sailors killed in action fighting the slaver crew. Though the wages and extra gold you bring are received with good grace, you leave behind grieving parents, widowed wives and sons who will never know their fathers.
With that unpleasant task out of the way, you check on the arrangements for Halaan's forge. You find the narrow vine covered three story building on the north side of Artisan's District without much difficulty. Halaan, Geolain and Navear are all busy inside setting up an array of strangely shaped glass jars, tubes, and other equipment that you can't even begin to guess the purpose of. Seeing you're not of much use inside, you decide to work the neighbourhood, knocking on the doors of the neighbouring homes and workshops and letting them know that any strange activity at the forge has your official sanction as Honoured Defender and that if they have any concerns or worries they can contact you directly at the Chapter House. You get a mixed set of reactions, some are simply uninterested, others are a little awed to be singled out for your attention, some are frigntened by the prospect of mysterious magiks being worked so close to where they live. Some people are not home, and servants or apprentices duly take messages. No one has any objections, however. Satisfied that Halaan is in good hands, you go to the Crossed Cutlasses to enjoy a beer and a meal with Baram.
Reviewing the ledgers of your estate and the decisions of your steward give is a relaxing task and gives you a moment to center your thoughts, then you turn to the more pressing task of advising the Council of the keep and its possibilities. Finally, you pen a quick note to Lantern Xookaer and Councilor Werlen, and ask your chapter commander to support yor plans for the ceremony to repatriate the Cup of Peace.
Early the next day, you take Captain Wien and visit the families of the two sailors killed in action fighting the slaver crew. Though the wages and extra gold you bring are received with good grace, you leave behind grieving parents, widowed wives and sons who will never know their fathers.
With that unpleasant task out of the way, you check on the arrangements for Halaan's forge. You find the narrow vine covered three story building on the north side of Artisan's District without much difficulty. Halaan, Geolain and Navear are all busy inside setting up an array of strangely shaped glass jars, tubes, and other equipment that you can't even begin to guess the purpose of. Seeing you're not of much use inside, you decide to work the neighbourhood, knocking on the doors of the neighbouring homes and workshops and letting them know that any strange activity at the forge has your official sanction as Honoured Defender and that if they have any concerns or worries they can contact you directly at the Chapter House. You get a mixed set of reactions, some are simply uninterested, others are a little awed to be singled out for your attention, some are frigntened by the prospect of mysterious magiks being worked so close to where they live. Some people are not home, and servants or apprentices duly take messages. No one has any objections, however. Satisfied that Halaan is in good hands, you go to the Crossed Cutlasses to enjoy a beer and a meal with Baram.
Rundin's Story - Homeday, 19th of Famine YND 744
Entry 1 - Your great show of strength in releasing your kinsmen from slavery leaves you exhausted. Once free, your kin set to work releasing the other dwarves and halflings in the lower hold, and they struggle weakly up the ladder. You help those who need it, though most hold their heads high to show that slavery has not broken their spirit.
On deck, they gather around you and pepper you with questions. You make sure everyone is fed again from the batch of rice & pork that Sir Dealann had ordered cooked up and explain that they are in Zoa and that you will help to settle them in the demi-human communities here. 'How will I manage this?' you wonder as you head back towards the deck where Dealann, Finn & Neroon are heatedly debating the fate of the slaves.
Fortunately, you remember Stiruck, the dwarven merchant you rescued outside of Haanex and the advice he gave to seek out his friend Purgild in Small Town should you need a friend in Zoa. Leaving the slave ship, you head for Small Town. The moment you ask for directions, the Karastan emigrants recognize you as one of their own by the thick mountain accent that permeates your dwarven speech. They willingly give you directions to Purgild's workshop.
"What's that you say? A friend of Stiruck's? And from the Mountains too, by the look of you. Come in!" you assume the burly, blackbearded dwarf who ushers you into the shop must be Purgild. "what do you need today? A brother mendicant like yourself has no need of my skills in working steel and there's other who can work fine metals better than I. What brings you here?"
Leaning on his counter, you explain the situation you are in and that you need help. Purgild runs his hands through his beard and mutters an occasional "aye" as you relate your tale. When you're finished, Purgild assures you that the dwarves & halflings can be settled in Small Town or sent to the communities that surround Zoa. Feeling satisfied with the arrangements, you head back to the slave ship. On the way, you stop at a market stall and purchase 15 sets of clothing (mark off 15sp) so those you freed can discard there rags and go to there new homes with dignity.
On deck, they gather around you and pepper you with questions. You make sure everyone is fed again from the batch of rice & pork that Sir Dealann had ordered cooked up and explain that they are in Zoa and that you will help to settle them in the demi-human communities here. 'How will I manage this?' you wonder as you head back towards the deck where Dealann, Finn & Neroon are heatedly debating the fate of the slaves.
Fortunately, you remember Stiruck, the dwarven merchant you rescued outside of Haanex and the advice he gave to seek out his friend Purgild in Small Town should you need a friend in Zoa. Leaving the slave ship, you head for Small Town. The moment you ask for directions, the Karastan emigrants recognize you as one of their own by the thick mountain accent that permeates your dwarven speech. They willingly give you directions to Purgild's workshop.
"What's that you say? A friend of Stiruck's? And from the Mountains too, by the look of you. Come in!" you assume the burly, blackbearded dwarf who ushers you into the shop must be Purgild. "what do you need today? A brother mendicant like yourself has no need of my skills in working steel and there's other who can work fine metals better than I. What brings you here?"
Leaning on his counter, you explain the situation you are in and that you need help. Purgild runs his hands through his beard and mutters an occasional "aye" as you relate your tale. When you're finished, Purgild assures you that the dwarves & halflings can be settled in Small Town or sent to the communities that surround Zoa. Feeling satisfied with the arrangements, you head back to the slave ship. On the way, you stop at a market stall and purchase 15 sets of clothing (mark off 15sp) so those you freed can discard there rags and go to there new homes with dignity.
The Slaver's Journal
Here is the excerpt of the slaver captain's journal as related to you by Finn Allan:
From what you can gather, the slaver ship left the Kalamaran port of Sobeteta on the 20th of Harvest, Year 563 in the Imperial Reckoning, with a cargo of demi-human and human slaves, rice, salt pork and rough wine. It sailed west, skipping the Kalamaran capital of Bet Kalamar and putting in at Oloseta on the coast of Tarisato, a province in southern Kalamar and the last civilized stop before making the run to Reanaarian Bay. There they took on a cargo of Hobgoblin criminals condemned to slavery - the captain writes at length about how each one is chained separately so that they can be handled more easily. They also picked up a very interesting passenger - a Baron from the north of Kalamar, who bought passage and some transport space for a small cargo of fine wines to Zoa.
From the coast of Tarisato, the ship headed to Reanaaria, but unusually for a slaver, after it rounded the peninsula of the Obakasek jungle, the ship took several side trips back to the coast at the direction of the Baron. They would hug the coast for several days, and the Baron would stand at the rail - scanning the shore for some signal, sign or landmark. Other than complaining about the delays, the captain passed the time by charting these waters, and it looks like he has made one or two useful sea charts of sections of the coast. At one point the slavers came across a tribe of Dejy humans fishing on the shore, and posing as simple traders the slave captain ambushed the tribes people, capturing many. Any that were unsuitable for sale he tossed overboard, within sight of land but hardly within swimming distance for a child or old woman. You detect a note of glee in the captain's writings as he relates how furious the Baron was over the delay - you get the idea that these two did not get along, and wonder what other little games of spite they played.
There are only two other passages of interest: on the 12th of Famine (after 2 months at sea) the Baron finally spotted the landmark he was looking for and took a boat to shore. The Baron returned after about 3 hours. The second passage relates to a change of course on the 17th of Famine - it seems unexpected because there are only calculations, and the simple sentence - "at the Baron's direction we have changed course for Aaser - City of pirates. May the Gawds save all our souls."
Two days later they encountered your ship, and you can't help but wonder - was the attack on your boat another attempt by the Captain to spite the Baron? Did you help the right side?
From what you can gather, the slaver ship left the Kalamaran port of Sobeteta on the 20th of Harvest, Year 563 in the Imperial Reckoning, with a cargo of demi-human and human slaves, rice, salt pork and rough wine. It sailed west, skipping the Kalamaran capital of Bet Kalamar and putting in at Oloseta on the coast of Tarisato, a province in southern Kalamar and the last civilized stop before making the run to Reanaarian Bay. There they took on a cargo of Hobgoblin criminals condemned to slavery - the captain writes at length about how each one is chained separately so that they can be handled more easily. They also picked up a very interesting passenger - a Baron from the north of Kalamar, who bought passage and some transport space for a small cargo of fine wines to Zoa.
From the coast of Tarisato, the ship headed to Reanaaria, but unusually for a slaver, after it rounded the peninsula of the Obakasek jungle, the ship took several side trips back to the coast at the direction of the Baron. They would hug the coast for several days, and the Baron would stand at the rail - scanning the shore for some signal, sign or landmark. Other than complaining about the delays, the captain passed the time by charting these waters, and it looks like he has made one or two useful sea charts of sections of the coast. At one point the slavers came across a tribe of Dejy humans fishing on the shore, and posing as simple traders the slave captain ambushed the tribes people, capturing many. Any that were unsuitable for sale he tossed overboard, within sight of land but hardly within swimming distance for a child or old woman. You detect a note of glee in the captain's writings as he relates how furious the Baron was over the delay - you get the idea that these two did not get along, and wonder what other little games of spite they played.
There are only two other passages of interest: on the 12th of Famine (after 2 months at sea) the Baron finally spotted the landmark he was looking for and took a boat to shore. The Baron returned after about 3 hours. The second passage relates to a change of course on the 17th of Famine - it seems unexpected because there are only calculations, and the simple sentence - "at the Baron's direction we have changed course for Aaser - City of pirates. May the Gawds save all our souls."
Two days later they encountered your ship, and you can't help but wonder - was the attack on your boat another attempt by the Captain to spite the Baron? Did you help the right side?
8.5.10
Homeday, 19th Day of Famine, Year of the New Discovery 744
...inside the Assembly of Light's opulent church in the Circle of Gawds, Neroon and Sir Dealaan Falamora kneel before the Altar of Light. Bright Sunlight streams through the clear sixty foot windows, illuminating the throng of worshippers, faithful, and curious who were caught up in the procession from the wharf. The church has not been this full in many a Godday. Lantern Xookaer, the leader of the Zoan faithful, holds the Cup of Peace high and the choir raises its voices in song:
"Oh shine on me to make them see such a wonderful sight in the noonday light...
As the sunlight touches the chalice, it appears fill with light and the emarald crystal turns bright ruby red before your uplifted eyes. The crowd stands in awed silence.
****** ****** ****** ****** ******
...across town, Rundin guides Navear, Halaan and Haruna to Geolain's tower. Rumour runs ahead of you in the streets:
"the Cup of Peace has been returned!"
"they came off the same ship as the Cup!"
"is it true? has the Cup been found?"
As strangers to this city, you can only marvel at how fast the rumour has traveled and the excitement that the return of a simple piece of crockery has created in young and old alike, even here in the Dregs. But for them, its not just a cup, its a symbol of a happier, more prosperous times when the Zoan navy ruled the Bay and kept peace amongst its neighbours. As you approach the silver gates of Geolain's Tower a boy in sailor's garb catches you up. He is breathless from running. You recognize him from among the crew of Hyperion.
"Ralaan! what is it?" asks Rundin.
Ralaan pauses, gasping for breath "Sir, its the Baron sir, he's gone!"
"Gone?" this from Navear.
"Disappeared! Escaped!"
Rundin meets the worried gaze of Navear. "We have to get back to the ship!"
****** ****** ****** ****** ******
On the steps of the Assembly church, Sir Dealaan and Neroon are receiving the same news. Dealaan is furious. "Faluvar Dilegel gave me his word! Let's get back to the ship."
Not noticing Sir Dealaan's anger, Neroon is looking across the bay. "look, that ship coming into harbour... seems familiar..." he grabs Dealann's arm. "It's that slaver we took! Finn and Captain Wien have made it home and only a few hours behind us!"
Sir Dealaan and Neroon hurriedly push the crowds towards the warf.
"Oh shine on me to make them see such a wonderful sight in the noonday light...
As the sunlight touches the chalice, it appears fill with light and the emarald crystal turns bright ruby red before your uplifted eyes. The crowd stands in awed silence.
****** ****** ****** ****** ******
...across town, Rundin guides Navear, Halaan and Haruna to Geolain's tower. Rumour runs ahead of you in the streets:
"the Cup of Peace has been returned!"
"they came off the same ship as the Cup!"
"is it true? has the Cup been found?"
As strangers to this city, you can only marvel at how fast the rumour has traveled and the excitement that the return of a simple piece of crockery has created in young and old alike, even here in the Dregs. But for them, its not just a cup, its a symbol of a happier, more prosperous times when the Zoan navy ruled the Bay and kept peace amongst its neighbours. As you approach the silver gates of Geolain's Tower a boy in sailor's garb catches you up. He is breathless from running. You recognize him from among the crew of Hyperion.
"Ralaan! what is it?" asks Rundin.
Ralaan pauses, gasping for breath "Sir, its the Baron sir, he's gone!"
"Gone?" this from Navear.
"Disappeared! Escaped!"
Rundin meets the worried gaze of Navear. "We have to get back to the ship!"
****** ****** ****** ****** ******
On the steps of the Assembly church, Sir Dealaan and Neroon are receiving the same news. Dealaan is furious. "Faluvar Dilegel gave me his word! Let's get back to the ship."
Not noticing Sir Dealaan's anger, Neroon is looking across the bay. "look, that ship coming into harbour... seems familiar..." he grabs Dealann's arm. "It's that slaver we took! Finn and Captain Wien have made it home and only a few hours behind us!"
Sir Dealaan and Neroon hurriedly push the crowds towards the warf.
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