PF Kingmaker Stolen Land IC

[Artemis97]

https://cdn.discordapp.com/attachments/651345338342572042/651345419959402496/Charter.jpg

Your group has been sent off into the wilds, coming south on the South Rostland Road towards a small encampment you know to be Oleg's Trading Post. Each of you has been selected and hold a charter for exploring the Greenbelt, a territory claimed by no one which Brevoy wishes to bring under its heel.

It's a fine day for travel, with the sun shining high. Up ahead you can see the wooden palisades which make up the outer walls of Oleg's Trading Post. You'll reach it shortly. What are your plans once inside? How have you gotten along with your compatriots in this trek out to rural Rostland?

[Spore]

Okorion, of Medvyed, or Oko for short told you stories all the way from Restov to Oleg's Post. Most of the stories were happy and grim fairy tales involving various fae of the First World, though most of them were invented by the playful slender half-elf. With him, a young and strong buck, a male elk wanders towards Oleg's post. It holds most of of Oko's belongings and even a few of the group's most basic needs, like a few water skins and the food. You have seen bigger elk in your days, but the young buck has unmistakably a glint in his eyes. And the more perceptive under you realise Oko looks with an endearing look at the animal.

My friends, we are close to Oleg's. Through the enchanted - mostly muddy - forest, crossing the river. And not even the famous bridge trolls required a toll from us. Truly the divines grant us an enjoyable journey.

Oko smiles a happy smile, and tries to clean his vestments from dirt, removing any creases. The first impression is always important, and even though his clothes barely cover his chest, he wants it to be impeccable. Who knows, maybe this Oleg is a rather beautiful man?

[ProudGrognard]

Tefkros

Tefkros has been a silent, but eager, companion all the way to the Stoeln Lands. He barely said three words when two words would suffice, but he was always there, helping choosing sites for the camp, scouting ahead, bringing fresh water. Or he would just sit on the wagon, staring ahead or at the sky, sometimes singing loudly and clearly, without a care in the world that his voice was only mediocre. He also makes lots of arrows by the fire light, as if this activity relaxes him.

Tefkros has been an avid listener of Oko. A pipe in hand, he would listen with great care, laughing at the stories or even shaking his head in doubt. Kennick has been a source of great curiosity, and, with Oko 's permission, Tefkros has been playing with Kennick like he is some kind of oversized dog.

Through his attentions to Kennick, Tefkros has found an enjoyable companion in Caelin. The man also likes to helo along, and is not so bad in the wilds. But he knows his way around weapons, and around arrows too. Tefkros enjoys working with him.

Now that they are approaching, Tefkros smiles in anticipation. He pets his bow like it was alive and makes sure it is well oiled.

[Zero Prime]

Caelin of Restov, bastard born warrior of the Rostland Plains (https://www.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=2058156)
AC: 18 [Flat Footed: 17; Shieldless: 16; Touch: 11; CMD: 16] | Hit Points: 15 of 15 | Conditions: None

Caelin was restless during the journey, assisting his new travelling companions where his aid would be needed, or welcomed. Ensuring that Oko's buck, was well tended, and fed, it's coat brushed to prevent any sores from occuring due to the chaffing of the pack bags affixed to the beasts haunches. He even ventured so far as to join Tefkros in his ranging and foraging, displaying some small skill in his ability to locate clean, fresh water, firewood, and shelter. He had displayed some aptitude in discovering spore and sign of prey, yet his ability to not alert their prey to his clumsy approach was most likely frustrating to the young ranger, so Caelin left the actual hunting to the archer, instead ensuring there was a sufficient fire built for the game that his companion would often return with.

After those camp fire meals, Caelin would often share a skin of wine with his fellows, and soak in Oko's mischevious tales, laughing at the fanciful, ridiculous nature of them, while often blushing at the more bawdy portions of those few that the half elf deemed to share with the group. In the morning, he would wake early, while the sky was still grey, and given his training as black smith appprentice, would often ensure that his companions armor and gear was well maintained, oiled, and weather proofed, sharply honed and free of rust. Given that Tefkros was, himself, an early riser, he quickly learned to leave maintenance of the archer's bow to himself, though they did speak, at length, of the shaping of wood, and craftsman ship the young man had put into the longbow he cherished so much.

Caelin nodded as Okorion preened himself prior to their arrival, "Given our time on the road, we should likely refresh our stocks and supplies. Thankfully Tef's ability to bring down game have kept our rations sufficient for another week or so. Even still it would be nice to have a restful sleep, in a warm, soft bed, before we venture deeper into the Greenbelt. Perhaps even purchase a bottle of Rostland Red to celebrate the occassion."

[Foryn Gilnith]

Durga was quite outgoing at the group's first meeting, sending toothy (fangy?) smiles to everyone present at the writ's issuing and spreading thanks and encouragements in a warm but gravelly tone. However, as time goes on and you travel with him, it becomes apparent that his normal demeanor is considerably colder... he spends most of his days absorbed in the annals of his spellbook or a pocket-sized journal, content to leave the oratory spotlight to Okorion - and more than content to not have to open his mouth himself. Those who peer at his books (or ask about them) find that he is primarily taking notes on the observed flora and weather of the area, as well as sketching out a crude map of the section of the wilderness the group has been passing through.

"If they've supplies to spare, I'd rather they crack open a barrel of cider," he grumbles, pulling on the sleeve of a long dark overcoat whose frays and tears he has been meticulous about repairing by hand throughout the journey. "Whatever the wonders of fresh game, they're not worth a damn when none of us can mind a spit properly. I could wash down these trail rations with bear urine at this point and hardly notice the difference."

[Spore]

True words, Mister Durga. However intoxicating nature truly is, it becomes stale and boring without a little excitement. Especially if you doodle down every other blade of grass. Oko smiles his trademark disarming smile. If it weren't for Caelin's wine, I think would've gone mad by now. The sorcerer wiggles his fingers, incants words of power and imitates the sound of a sizzling fire and a freshly poured ale.

Still, overeating and drinking never solved a problem. Remember the werewolf that ate poor grandma with a side of wine? A red-cloaked paladin of Erastil hunted him with silver arrowheads, gutted him to resurrect grandma, all because he was wine-drunk and could not dodge the arrows.

[Destro_Yersul]

On first introduction, the tall slender half-elf with brown hair and clothing to match had likely been formally introduced as Araquintis, to his great and enduring embarassment. He preferred to be known as Quint, plain Quint Fletcher, and he told them so. Normally talkative, Quint had spent the first leg of the journey in varying states of sullen silence. He really didn't want to be dashing off to traipse through the wilderness again. Couldn't hardly become famous in the wilderness. That was what he had gone to the city for in the first place. And so he spent the rest stops idly sketching his travelling companions and listening to Oko tell stories.

By the second half of the trip he'd opened up a little, providing commentary on some of the local landmarks, and pointing out interesting species of bird. He didn't help out with the hunting, being not especially good at it, but he did try to engage Durga in conversation a few times, predominantly to see if the wizard was at all interested in discussions of the local situation, and what they ought to do about it. The writ they had all been granted was quite broad, and Quint wasn't especially sure how to best pursue it.

"Think I've heard that story, with the wolf," he said, as they approached the trading post. "Though in that version, another wolf tries again, and they have to drown it in a pot of water."

[Hattish Thing]

Khaz'rha:

The half-orc had kept to herself throughout much of the journey, helping out here and there when required, but generally remaining as distant as possible from the others. A creature of habit, the fistfighter's daily routine never differed from the precedent set during the first day of travel. She was usually one of the first individuals awake, spending an hour or so meditating and practicing an aggressive exercise routine which appears as a sort of cross between a particularly demanding aerobics session and a boxing match.

After exercising, Khaz'rha ate heartily of her own rations, or whatever else was available, though she never made small talk. During periods of travel, the half-orc assisted in the heavier lifting whenever possible, but never asked for help, nor responded much to any exclamations of 'thank you'. After helping pitch camp and unpack, Khaz'rha's evenings were spent alone within her tent, alongside one of her several canisters of strong spirits. She never shared, nor made much noise, and was frequently one of the first to fade into unconsciousness (assisted, of course, by her canister).

--

As the small group approaches their destination, Khaz'rha spends far longer than usual making sure her gauntlets were well-maintained, adjusting her clothing here and there as if nervous. An insightful eye, however, would likely be able to recognize Khaz'rha's behavior as centered primarily towards eagerness for violence, rather than nerves.

She rolls her dark brown eye as Oko makes his comment regarding eating and drinking, taking a deep swig from her canister as if to spite him. She growls a small response under her breath as the group proceeds.

"Hmph. Yer just not trying hard enough, elf."

"I've yet to find a problem I couldn't eat or drink my way out of."

[Spore]

Now that would be a deep pot of water. Maybe Khaz over there preferred to be drowned in spirits. the jolly half-elf responds.

Seeing his chance now, he approaches the tall half-orc. She was an enigma to the sorcerer, not very bright but actually pretty attractive. He could not fathom a way where even her brutish charm was wasted on alcoholism. She was the definition of a big brute. But her combat style also showed hidden elegant ways. The last days were exciting so Oko woke up early and watched Khaz training in hiding for fear of embarassing her. It was a delightful routine to his own pretty chaotic ways.

Look around you. These lands are no problem. They are a gift and an artwork. We are here to rid this land of unnecessary brutality. Strength is important and attractive. Oko admires her form without touching her, knowing she could snap his bones in half with just two fingers. Much like your body is an artwork that should house strength, not violence.

[Hattish Thing]

Khaz'rha

In response to the half-elf's prodding, Khaz'rha narrows her eye, her dark brown orb disappearing into the black tribal paint worn around it until it's little more than a colorful sliver beneath a harsh brow. She shakes her head before turning away from the sorcerer and continuing to pull at the alcohol-soaked rope wrapped around her boxing gauntlets.

"Let's hope you're better in a fight than you are with your words."

"Keep your talk to yourself, or we'll find out."

--

After growling her response out towards Oko, Khaz'rha stomps forward near the front of the group.

[ProudGrognard]

Tefkros

Tefkros watches with alarm and amazement the banter. His companions speak of drinking wine and cider casually, as if it could be an everyday occurrence. Tefkros had drunk wine exactly eight times, more or less once per year since he got old enough to drink. Wine was rare and expensive.

But then things get tense between Oko and Khaz. Apparently some people are like that, they would try and charm a roaring lion. Oko could probably do it, one time out of three, too.

Catching Oko's eyes, he makes 'what can you do' gesture with his hands and elbows. He then slowly walks up in front, his bow at the ready, thinking of what to say to Khaz. He hopes he is right, he wouldn't want to get into a fight with here, bow or no bow. He points at her gloves.

"For boxing?"

He makes a 'I wouldn't know' gesture his shoulders.

[Hattish Thing]

Khaz'rha

The boxer glances back towards Tefkros as he approaches, her sour expression flashing into one of suspicion and distrust. Though obviously wary of the man's proximity, the half-orc's tattooed shoulders lower slightly as the inquisitive ranger raises a question towards her. The gauntlets themselves are quite impressive, each one crafted of a strange, dull gray metal which seems to reflect the sunlight in unusual ways. The gauntlets wrap around each of Khaz'rha's fingers, building up to a large hunk of metal which rests upon her knuckles.

Plates of the material cover the top of her hands, leaving her palm bare save for the alcohol-soaked rope which braces the gauntlets tight up against her flesh. One knowledgeable in the ways of armor-smithing might realize that by exposing the metal against her bare flesh, Khaz'rha was likely constantly forcing herself to build up callouses due to the metal's ability to soak up heat.

The process was painful, but clearly effective. She nods, before murmuring a quiet response.

"Naw. For breaking teeth to powder."

"Boxing gloves, they're leather. Bruises, broken bones. These... are for killing."

[Zero Prime]

Caelin of Restov, bastard born warrior of the Rostland Plains (https://www.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=2058156)
AC: 18 [Flat Footed: 17; Shieldless: 16; Touch: 11; CMD: 16] | Hit Points: 15 of 15 | Conditions: None

Caelin's eyes narrowed as he too approached the larger ork blooded woman, "Khazra!," he called, taking two quick steps to catch up to her surge forward, "Oko means no harm, nor would he wish to offend, of that I am sure." His brow furrowed as he continued, "But make no mistake, in this venture we are companions, and as such, we must learn to rely on one another, offering threats of violence is not the way to do so. So I am not sure what your damage is, but we did not cause it, nor will we perpetuate it In the spirit of co-operation I would ask that you work with us, and learn to trust us at the very least."

[Spore]

Oh all of you, just relax. Who knew a stroll through the forest would make you all so tense? Khazra my dear he adds now just to provoke her. My skills are meant to deescalate combat situations, and to protect. I cannot surpass you in the permanent life-altering damage you do. So I don't even try. But what I can do is protect your body for your combat style eschews armor for some reason. Either to show off, or to...well I don't know what else.

With these words, Oko stands next to Caelin, smiling at the half-orc. He is not making any efforts to hide himself behind the bigger Brevic warrior but he suddenly feels a lot safer within his reach.

[Artemis97]

https://cdn.discordapp.com/attachments/651345338342572042/654952095740330004/Olegs_Trading_Post.png

Your group approaches the palisades and the gate at Oleg's Trading Post, a former border fort turned small business. You may wonder how it gets along way out here, away from the rivers where the major trade routes are.

Inside the safety of the walls is the main trading yard, with two large tables flanking a fire for making trades. There's a few buildings. To the left are the stables. One old horse is housed here, munching on some hay. Next to that is a storage building, more of a hut than anything. It's fenced and roofed and completely empty. Behind them are a trio of midden piles, which stink when the wind blows just right. In the back right corner of the yard is the main hall, a squat and sturdy building. There's a smaller building on the south side of the trading yard, as well.

A middle aged man, presumably Oleg, is on the roof of the southerly building, busy at work repairing a leak. He's sweating up there, and hasn't seemed to have noticed your entrance just yet.

[Spore]

This is gonna be great. Oko waggles his fingers and creates the sound of a large trumpet fanfaring for royalty of Brevoy.

The ruler of Brevoy, His Majesty King Noleski Surtova order you, Oleg of this trading post, to immediately impregnate his sister Natala to produce an heir. Compliance will be non negotiable. You are to plow her majesty Queen Surtova immediately.

Oko does not hide during that whole charade and looks for Oleg so he sees him waving and smiling widely.

It is technically a lie but Oko does want to make the bluff relatively see-through. Would this then be Diplomacy to start off being funny with Oleg?
[roll0]
+4 for Diplomacy, +8 for Bluff

[tonberryking]

There's always one toughie in the crowd...

Sort of.

Tira, easily mistaken for a blue statue, has been especially quiet, never showing mirth or merriment despite the avid storytelling being shared. Though she does seem to enjoy petting Oko's elk as they walked along and is probably feeding him snacks on the sly. The only time she seemed willing to speak was to offer to cook for the others after they retrieved food from the wild; she claims to make a fine stew or other such trail meal for them.

Otherwise, the half drow hasn't laughed or smiled all trip long. But now, as they approach the last bastion of civilization, she starts to take more charge.

"Now is not the time for your hilarious jokes, Oko," she says "hilarious"with the same tone as one casually referring to aluminum siding, "Good sir. Ignore my jester compatriot. We seek to council with you and make use of your trading post. ...Also, do you have an oven?"


[roll0] Diplomacy to try to fix this mess. :V

[ProudGrognard]

Tefkros

Tefkros actually slaps his forehead when Oko does his thing once more. But he smiles a bit, too.

Having nothing to say to diffuse the situation, he takes a good look at the post, the surroundings and the lay of the land, so close to the Post.

[Zero Prime]

Caelin of Restov, bastard born warrior of the Rostland Plains (https://www.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=2058156)
AC: 18 [Flat Footed: 17; Shieldless: 16; Touch: 11; CMD: 16] | Hit Points: 15 of 15 | Conditions: None

Caelin looked to Oko, "You are a cruel man, to order this Oleg fellow to lie with pigs!" He nudged the spry elf blooded sorcerer with an elbow, as he moved forward to inspect the trading post, still chuckling to himself.

[Spore]

Oko casually ignores Mira's sour attitude like he did it for so many days. Instead, he turns towards Caelin and smiles again. Hey, you don't know what he is into. Don't shame this man for what if he enjoys a bit of mud wrestling?

He turns to Oleg and shouts: Yes, my blueish friend over there is right. We would be glad if you would offer us shelter, food and other trade goods. For coin of course. And if you're feeling generous, we would love to get the latest news about activities in the Lost Lands.

[Destro_Yersul]

"I should think the news one of the most important things," Quint said. "We're charged with exploring and bringing order to the belt of land just beyond. Any reports of banditry, or other disturbances, would be helpful."

[Artemis97]

Oleg sputters and nearly trips when he's startled by the fanfare Oko makes. He looks down at the group, frowning, but then his eyes light up.

"You're from Restov? Oh thank the gods!" He clambers down the ladder to the ground and walks over to you.

"You gave me a good fright, there, friend." He says to Oko. Then he looks to Tira, who gets stared at a bit before he answers. "I'd be glad to offer my Trading Post for your uses. Sadly we don't have an oven, no. Haven't had a chance to build one yet."

Then you mention bandits. "So they sent you about the bandits? That's great news! I thought they were going to send soldiers, but any port in a storm, right?"

[Spore]

I figured the nobles wanted to have the area scouted out before they move their armies in. Can't really have an army scan the area where bandits have home field advantage. Plus Oko waggles with his fingers, producing a harmless shower of glittery sparks. Durga and me have a few tricks up our sleeves to keep them in check.

Oko reaches with his arm around Oleg and tries to guide him away for a split-second. If you have any spirits or ale for tonight, we would appreciate it. Our unity has been strained by the long journey. We will offer any help we can of course. Oko turns the merchant back around.

What do you say? You help this man do whatever his goal was for today, and tonight we eat and drink our sorrows away.

[Artemis97]

"Armies?!" Oleg practically squeaks. "No no, I just wanted someone to stop them from stealing my stocks. They aren't really planning to move whole armies in, are they?"

"But you will help me? Truly?" The trader asks. "Then there is room for you here, of course. I think my wife has a bottle of wine we could share."

[Destro_Yersul]

"They probably won't send any armies," Quint said. "Much easier and cheaper to throw together a small group and send them off to do all the dirty work traipsing about in the woods. Even better if, strictly speaking, they don't have to pay us, on account of 'paying' us in the belongings of any bandits we happen to clear out."

After a moment's pause, he added "I'll take you up on the wine, though."

[ProudGrognard]

Tefkros

All the while, Tefkros has been moving around the post, admiring its solid construction. Hearing about wine, he smiles. Here it is again, luxury.


"Bandits? Sure. Some food with the wine, too?"

Pausing, he looks around.

"When are they coming?We need a watch?"

[Spore]

I am sure they have nothing we cannot manage. Are they stealing or robbing though?

[Artemis97]

"They'll be here within an hour of sunrise, tomorrow." Oleg says.

Oko gets an odd look. "What's the difference? They're taking all my trade goods. They threatened to take my wife if I didn't hand them over! One of them nearly took my hand!" He holds up his hand in front of him for emphasis.

[Spore]

Threatening one's partner was the only thing Oko needed to hear to to wipe the grin off of the sorcerer's face. In a serious tone, the half-elf responded. How many? This sounds like the right place and time for a trap. How many crossbows and bows do you have, Oleg?

Meanwhile Oko looks for elevated places to shoot from and looks to his allies. I know quite a few of you are experts in sword combat, but everyone not versed to defend themselves should set up archery positions. i recommend Quint and Tefkros will assume archery positions. Oleg and his wife may be able to help here. Caelin, Khaz'ra and Tira will 'negotiate' with the bandit leader, and I will hide and prepare a spell to knock a few out and to block off their first advance.

Oko looks at everyone if they are okay with his plans, and especially at Khaz'ra: I guess there will be bone breaking tomorrow, my dear. He smiles an evil grin.

[ProudGrognard]

Tefkros

Tefkros nods at the suggestion.

"Tomorrow, we fight."

He looks around and points at places where archery would be possible.

"Let's keep watches. Three hours before dawn, onwards. Are there flasks of oil? Traps to set?"

[Destro_Yersul]

"I've no problem taking up an archery spot. There's a few good ones, up above the gates," Quint said, pointing. "How about those catapults? Might be hard to hit a small group, but if anyone's trained..." he let the thought hang in the air a moment, then continued. "I'd say get anyone who can shoot up on the roofs, out of sight. Then let the bandits in through the main gates, shut the gates behind them, and pick them apart in the courtyard. If we make it look like just another collection run from scared traders, at least to start, we can probably get a few of them before they really know what's hit them."

[Spore]

Great idea. However this would prevent me from using my sleep spell.

[Hattish Thing]

Khaz'rha remains characteristically silent throughout the remainder of the journey to Oleg's Trading Post, only managing to keep her temper in check due to the significant training she had once received. Oko is ignored for the duration of the expedition, as well as during the group's time at the trading post proper, all the way up until his direct mention of her.

In response, she just glares, crossing her muscular arms over her broad chest.

"Don't call me that."

[Spore]

How about a 'please' next time, my l....Khaz'rha. Oko answers with a deadpan expression. He looks the half-orc straight in the eyes, then sighs.

Okay okay. Maybe we got off to a bad start. Sometimes I can't help but try to ameloriate our morale. If I said or did things that gone too far, I beg for your forgiveness. No bluffing, just honesty. We need unity if we want to survive the bandit's onslaught. So do you trust me enough to bury our little skirmish? Oko approaches Khaz, something he never did during the trip. The monk had great impulse control but Oko could tell she was close to exploding.

He stopped just a few inches before her and made a deep bow. He then extended his right hand to seal this promise. Maybe he tried to be a better person, maybe he was just scared of injuring himself or seeing others dying because of his capriciousness.

[Artemis97]

"I have a bow and a few javelins and spears in the stock room. There's half a barrel of lamp-oil too, but I'd rather you didn't burn the place down around us, right?" Oleg says. "Those catapults on the wall are from the days this used to be a fort. They're old, I doubt the ropes or mechanisms are any good. I've never maintained them. But you could have a look at them if you want."


Just then the door to the main house opens. "Oleg? Who are you talking to?" A woman calls out.

"Svetlana! There are adventurers here. They say they're going to help with the bandits."

"Really!? That's wonderful!" She rushes out to give her husband a hug from behind. She quickly lets him go though and looks to the group. "I've got a pot of stew going that'll warm you all up, and I think I'll break out some wine for this occasion!" She promises, before sauntering back inside.

Oleg smiles, watching her go, but looks worried too. "Why don't you all put your things in the guesthouse and then come over for some food? I'll tell you what we're up against more thoroughly there." With that, he'll turn to follow his wife inside.

[Spore]

Oko bows again in front of Svetlana, and if she allows it, he will kiss her hand ever so gently while bowing. I greet you, Svetlana of the Trading Post! Oko jokingly announces her name like a noble title. We are Tefkros, Caelin, Khaz'rha, Tiramisu, Kennick and I am Oko.

Potentially odd glimpses as to why he introduced the elk like a person are simply ignored. As Oko makes a beeline for the guest house, his buck follows him. The half-elf turns around, whispering gently into his ear.

My deer friend, I am sorry but they will not understand our bond. You'll find the stables to your liking, and if not I will join you tonight.

Oko pets the elk's head and sends him off.

[Destro_Yersul]

"And I'm Quint," the half-elf added, not worrying about bowing. He went to put his bag in the guest house, and then climbed the walls to inspect the catapults before dinner. He wasn't expecting much, nor did he fancy his chances at actually landing a shot with them, but intimidation factor counted for a lot with bandits. Of course, if they did go with his plan of letting everyone inside first and then just shooting the fish in the barrel, it likely wouldn't matter.

When he was done with the war machines, he went looking for food, and tried to sit near Oko. "The sleep spell is a good idea," he said, "but will it catch all of them? You can still use it with them inside, I just want to make sure we've got a few contingency plans. No first plan survives contact with the enemy."

[ProudGrognard]

Tefkros

Tefkros short of waves when his name is spoken. Before going on, he follows Quint, to spot protected archery positions and then the catapults. His done what he can to help make them work.


I don't know what check would be applicable, but Craft: Bower [roll0] or Craft general [roll1]

He then goes in, and puts his things in a very specific order around him before sitting to it.

[Spore]

The spell is accurate but not big. My powers need some....uh awakening. I'll hit two, maybe three guys at once.

[Artemis97]

"It's good to meet you all." Svetlana says, blushing a little at Oko's antics, before she returns inside.

The guest house is filled with low, but comfortable, cots covered in light blankets for the season. There's small tables and a few stools around as well. Everyone will be able to find a space. Except Kennick, unfortunately, who will have to stay in the stable. He's not alone, though, as Oleg keeps his horse Claptrap there. The gelding is jittery, and cautious of Kennick at first, but soon goes back to munching oats, of which there are plenty.

Quint and Tefkros find a small ladder leading up to the walls next to the gate. There's good vantage points up here, but the catapults are in complete disrepair and would take weeks to fix. Perhaps something to think about in the future, but nothing that would help them now.

Inside the main house, the kitchen and dining area is quite warm and a bit crowded as Svetlana cooks up a warm stew. Vennison and spring vegetables with boiled eggs for extra protein and flavor. Oleg's coming down the hall, some hardy travel bread in his hands. It was chewy stuff, usually, but in the stew it would soften, and make the pot go a little further with so many around.

Hearing Oko mention how many his spell can hit, Oleg speaks up. "That may be all you need to hit." He supposes. "They've been bringing fewer and fewer men each time they hit us. They think they have me licked!"

[tonberryking]

"Yes, I think trying to talk with the bandits before we dispense with righteous slaying is the proper course," the blue girl turns mechanically to look Oleg over. "You say that these bandits have struck here multiple times, yes? Would you be able to tell me what their leader looks like, any mannerisms they may possess? How well they control their hoodlums? Does a leader in fact show up every time there's a raid?"

She silently but politely nods to Svetlana, though once she gets her answers from Oleg, she quickly turns her attentions to the kitchen. "Would you like any help in your kitchen? I am always trying to learn more..."

[ProudGrognard]

Tefkros

Tefkros sits by the fire, his things carefully around him and starts to eat heartily and quite a bit.
When the question of talking to the bandits comes up, he looks up startled.

" Talk? Why? We hide. If they make demands, we shoot."

[Spore]

Well, you see, Tefkros. We are both a handful of warriors. We need to guide the affairs of these lands into something that can be handled. We cannot possibly kill ALL bandits, we need to negotiate and intimidate them into leaving Oleg alone. Because otherwise, if we butcher them, they will come back with more people. Maybe when we are not here. And then Svetlana has to cook for them. And that is the happiest outcome I can think off.

Oko sets the tables while he is talking, seemingly feeling right at home. Have you ever heard of thieves' guilds and big meetings in small alleyways? Even they talk first, but they have about two dozen crossbows aimed at the opposite faction. We should do the same.

[Destro_Yersul]

The state of the catapults was about what he had expected, but no less disheartening for that. Would have been nice to drop a boulder on some bandits as a means of making a point.

Inside, Quint sat in silent thought, chewing bread. "Right," he said, "if there's more of them somewhere that aren't coming along, they'll end up wondering what happened to this group. Either way, we'll have to think about increasing the defenses here, or at least going to their camp and taking out the rest of them. The trading post is a static target. Only real way to discourage bandits from something like that is by making it an unpalateable one."