"I'm sorry, but I do not understand," Sam replies once they've all settled in and taken seats. "I'm just a simple Half-Orc. A working man. I haven't seen the things you have seen. I haven't done what you have done. Me and my friends here, all we did was expell the redcaps that were in this city, kill the giant under the mountains and rid this world of that hag that seemed behind it all. So please, excuse me for not being up on current events but... Who are you? Why are you in charge? You're talking investigations and protective measures but did I miss the part where the people of Hokum put you in charge?"
"Did we miss an election?" Sam asks turning to Muir.
"Did their people show up before all the fighting was done?" he asks, this time turning to Elthana.
"I'm sure the people are pleased to have full bellies and their ills tended to but why are no leaders of Hokum here if you are indeed working for the interests of Hokum?" Sam says turning back to their elven savior in chief.
Muir nods agreeing with Sam “What Sam here says is true. We along with our Hokum friends have saved the town, and defeated the evil causing this. We are here to help equally not to take orders. There is much to speak about as equals.”
Elthana walks in a bit late, but right before Gewyn and takes a seat between Sam and Goldsheaf. She listens as the high priest starts the conversation, still wondering who this person was.
Missing the confrontation about Neferox, she then finds it interesting on how Sam and Muir start in. Finally she raises her hand slightly and asks, "I'm sorry, but who are you? And why are you taking charge at the moment? I mean isn't Ebb here the new found Speaker of Hermes?"she points towards him with her palm up. "And not only that, this is Hokum, isn't it? I believe it is Goldsheaf's town? Her's and her people that is." giving a sideways look to Sam.
"We dealt with Fey that have found their way to our plane apparently and they have made their way back to their home. It would be good to have the portal we found in the mountain guarded by at least a keeper. I do feel Muir is the best to direct this."
As people direct questions at the elf, he begins writing, not really making eye contact with anyone he mouths along to the things he writes, 'Redcaps, Giant, Hag, Fae, Portal'.
Goldsheaf does shift a little uncomfortably, "it was a point I was going to raise too, not to seem unappreciative, but I am the acting mayor of this town, we may be more of a logistical import and export kind of town but this town is not just a business, it is my people and my home. Whatever investigations you want to do will have to be officially sanctioned by myself and what remains of my council, and Not assumed by the order of Hermes", Ebb looks to the floor, like a child being chastised. Te'louim however adopts a sickly smile, "of course mayor, with no one in charge we simply acted in response to a crisis, now that you are here we will obviously act on your discretion, but this will be transactional nonetheless. We have an oath to uphold, but do not forget, healing and supplying aid are but pillars of our main goal, which has always been and remains to be Conflict mediation. It appears that the conflict itself has resolved with help of this fine group here, though I'm sure we would all like details so that we can assure that nothing has been missed, and we can avoid another invasion in the future".
Seemingly ignoring the elf, Gore looks over to Elthana with an eyebrow raised, "a portal in the mountain would definitely be something that would come under the keepers purview, our focus is the protection of all of the natural order in this land, not just the forests, but the towns and the people's too" he gives a warm smile to Elthana and a wink to Muir.
"There are more portals than just in the mountain," Sam says ominously and leans back in his chair.
"Mayor Goldsheaf, I am sorry for what your city has been through and I am afraid it is still close to several potential dangers. My companions and I will be happy to reveal all we know to you once we can discuss these things in a trusted forum," Sam says, side-eyeing Te'louim briefly before continuing. "Help has already been approved and sent by the council of Marblestead and if you have specific needs I can relay those as well. But I am a simple man and I been through a lot lately and this... Te'letubbie, was it? I don't know him. Quite frankly, I don't trust him. Snooty, acting in charge with no mandate, trying to divvy up who from my group is acceptable or not... A force of priests and paladin on your streets, doing good yes but also looking one step away from being an occupation force. I would be happier to give our information to you and you, as leader of Hokum, can decide how that information is best used."
"Sorry but... Ebb? Do you even vouch for this guy? I mean you left with the treasury funds and I still trust you more than this guy..."
Muir snickers and catches himself with a cough “Ah so this is the one that absconded with all your money. I don’t remember which pillar of Hermes says anything about that.” Muir stops himself from going any further “So then Goldsheaf it is up to you, shall we proceed?”
Te'louim merely sits back in his chair, unaffected by the words of a brute, he watches Goldsheaf closely and then when Sam directs a question to Ebb, the elf turns to regard his new messenger of the god.
Ebb looks up toward Sam, "we are trying to do good Sam, and I'm trying to prevent another incursion happening at Lyvander, it is my home, my people, anything that can be learned here can help. I think I've been given these visions in order to prepare us, why would I be shown things if they are set in stone? My teachings rely upon the basis that we influence our own destiny, we are here to help, I promise... Also I can return the money, I completely forgot I had it until I got halfway to Lyvander..."
"I'd like to discuss some things with this group and the leader of hokums chapter of the keepers, if you'd excuse us til then I would appreciate it." Goldsheaf says to Te'louim gesturing toward the door.
Gewyn places his mirror on the table and smiles as he idly runs a finger around its rim. "It think that is a grand idea. I think we should all do introductions as we seem to have gotten off on the wrong foot. We are the members of a response force put together by the council of Marblestead consisting of representatives of every major faction therein. Sorry," he corrects himself, looking at Ebb. "Every major faction less the Clerics of Hermes. Elthana, Sam, Vin, Neferox, and of course, myself, Gewyn. We all answer to and work in service of those factions of the council, excepting of course, the Clerics of Hermes. We are also joined by a Master of the Keepers of the Woods, Master Muir." He turns to Te'louim. "Now you whose name and position are unknown to me, say this will be transactional. That leaves my first impression of you as being one possessed of much wisdom and pragmatism."
Gewyn sits forward in his seat and steeples his fingers. "So let's lay some groundwork so we all know where things stand. In this transaction, what we are selling is that we came in, rallied the people, procured reinforcements on site, and risked life and limb to resolve this conflict you were tasked with mediating." He shifts so that the fresh scar on his chest peeks out of his deep v-shaped collar "There is talk of us also providing information to you to assist you in further endeavors regarding Lyvander, a place in which we, the council's chosen agents, have no official involvement as of yet. Now we greatly look forward to hearing what your side of this proposed transaction will be, but first we owe our much vied-for time and attention to our gracious host, Goldsheaf. I very genuinely look forward to gracious and cordial collaboration with you all, especially now that we all have a bit better of an idea of how things stand."
Gewyn rises to punctuate his last word, and gives a nod to Goldsheaf.
"My name is Te'louim, high priest in understudy to The High Priest Holm, a council member of your city. and this is Ebb, messianic speaker, and vessel of Hermes himself." There is an impatience in the elf's voice and Ebb goes rosy in his cheeks, embarrassed as his superior begins naming his apparent titles.
"Master Gore, Leader of hokum's druidic chapter of the keepers" Gore states with high amusement, apparently introducing himself just to mock the elf.
"...and I believe I have already been introduced to everyone after having my position somewhat called into question, now please, Ebb, Priest Te'louim. We'll only be a moment..." With that Goldsheaf gestures to the door once more and Te'louim rises wordlessly, closing his notebook and exits alongside Ebb.
.
"Now" sighs Goldsheaf, "You said that marblestead is sending aid? What can we expect?" She looks at Sam, prodding him to begin proceedings.
"Thanks mayor," Sam says with perhaps a hint of a satisfied grin.
"Earlier today I got a message by Sending Stone from my sponsor that aid has been approved by the Council and a band has already set out to Trundlesten. Smiths and builders as well. I'm afraid I have no further details as the stones dictate we be a bit on the brief side. I will ask for more details when next we can communicate. Tomorrow. If you have specific needs let me know and I will try to get that across as well..." Sam answers. He's sure the Council wouldn't send enough and halfly the wrong stuff, but that is what Councils do whether told better or not. "Leastwise, I have no indication they're sending an armed force of paladins to patrol your streets whether you want it or not..."
"But there are other concerns you need know about. As I mentioned, there may be other portals. We believe temporary but still potentially quite a problem," Sam advises and he explains about the trees and what they know, and suspect, what has come out of them. "You must believe me, I had no reason to suspect these would be anything but ordinary wooden trees or I'd not of..."
Sam sighs and shrugs. He is good at both and finds they give him a chance to collect his thoughts...
"Master Gore," Sam says formally when he continues. "I have already agreed to allow Muir and others of your kind to examine the acorns I have left. Mind you, examine... Not have. No matter if potentially a threat or not they are a gift that I need return when I return to Marblestead. If one need be used to experiment or such then perhaps we could negotiate that out but I'm a man of my word and I said I would return any I did not need to use... You understand, I'm sure."
Sam fidgets a bit and hesitates but it is clear he isn't done quite yet. When he does speak again it is with the tone of one delivering bad news. "Jimmy... My sponsor on The Council... He also reminded me that they expect us back for the Winter Solstice events. Personally I'd rather skip such nonsense but... It seems our time here lending a hand has a clock on it. Mind you, if you really think this Tel'Dorei fella and his holy army are a threat of some kind then I think I could skip the pomp and circumstance back home to lend you some muscle here. Marblestead definitely wants Hokum free from the governance of such I'd wager...They liked things the way they were, which's why they sent us, so I understand it... But... yeah..." And with that, Sam's public speaking momentum peters out...
Elthana listens intently to what Sam has to say, but doesn't add anything. She waits for Goldsheaf's response. She has no experience in politics and prefers to keep it that way. Though, she wouldn't mind knowing more about that high elf and why they felt so righteous about taking control here. Also, what is going on in Lyvander?
Muir decides to pipe up "The clerics are here because I alerted them about Hokum prior to coming myself. They probed my mind to see if I was telling the truth about what I had learned and wanted to keep me at their compound for weeks until I could speak to High Priest Holm....I did not wait. I bought a horse with what little money and equipment I had and raced here as quickly as I could. Their presence is my doing. However, I did not know it would be so ......militant.....I think we have to tread waters here but am not sure how. I do know this we need to leave and get to that solstice on time. There is something brewing and we will need to be there....." Muir pauses a minute before speaking on Gore and Hirsi's participation in the rebuilding of town "It was suggested by my companions that Gore should take up the responsibility of overseeing the rebuilding of your town. We would give him the chest of gold to work with but also to help direct which areas of the forest are suitable for logging, which caves and rocks for mining, and where farming can be reestablished. Gore will keep everyone away from the trees that helped reclaim the town and use the coin to help everyone rebuild. I spoke with Goodall and suggested Hirsi become the new Keeper in the Mountain to watch the portal. There was a keeper there ages ago, we are checking our records, who has long since been dead but she was the Keeper of the Mountain who oversaw the portal. Of course we would not do any of this without your support and approval Mayor Goldsheaf. As you may or may not be aware, we do not force our will or suggestions onto anyone. We are here to help" Muir looks around the room for support and then to Gore
Vin was used to this kind of treatment to Nef. Folks just weren't comfortable with her. As such he was preparing to stay outside with her and wonder around the town to help but something happened that Vin never expected. Both Sam and Muir spoke up for her. Vin was normally the only one who did so. Relegated to staying outside with her or doing things that she could be allowed to join in. What's more the folks acquiesced and granted her permission to join as well. Vin doesn't know what it is about this group but... slowly... Nef is becoming a part of it. Not just something watching Vin and protecting him but as a part of a group working together. Vin doesn't interrupt the exchange as Nef nods in acknowledgment to the pair that spoke up for her and follows in.
Vin is for the most part quiet and contemplative. He listens. He also seems confused as folks don't really give thanks as much as assert dominance over Hokum for the people here. Vin is glad they are all speaking up for the folks here although he's not sure the others needed to do so. What's more is folks seem hesitant to give information to the clerics. Vin can't fathom why but lets the others decide how to give information to those gathered here but wants to add his own bits as seems fitting for the conversation. He's very surprised when they ask the cleric's to leave. He can't help but think, why are they being so rude? Whatever the case Neferox seems to sense their uncertainty and looks to him as he just furrows his brown in further confusion.
With Te'louim and Ebb having left the first one to speak is Goldsheaf. She seems to be eager to take charge. Vin for his part just feels bad about whatever happened here. Like for some reason everyone sees the clerics as the enemy all of a sudden. Didn't they come to help? Didn't we call them? Questions that seem to plague his mind now. He looks to the others and they all seem fine with this as they continue on without question. The young man seems uncomfortable now but forces himself to ask a few questions and add to the conversation when Sam brings up if they are a threat or not, "Umm, didn't we call them in? Am I missing something? Why would they be a threat?" He seems to be really uncertain. Neferox gives a small woof and he seems to decide to not broach the topic again if they don't want to talk about it giving them an out to avoid if they want as he adds, "I'm... nevermind. Umm, The Calvacade will be supplying folks I'm sure. Lord Hemiran in particular would want to make sure there is someone stationed for protection. Master Wooswin will probably want to take a look at the portal personally. His mastery of arcane knowledge would probably be invaluable in determining how the portal functions."
“Sometimes you invite a guest in and they track mud all over your floors,” Sam answers Vin. “All may be well but they looked… I don’t know, too militant to just be here to help? I could be wrong, not for the first or last time either. Just rubbed me wrong..”
“And wrong or not, that stick up the elf’s ass was just jammed up too high. Had his nose so high up in the air I feared he’d drown if it rained. He needed to be taken down a peg. For everyone’s good.”
“Goldsheaf can share with him as she chooses, or can ask us to repeat to him,” Sam adds. “I just wanted everyone reminded she’s in charge.”
"Oh, Nef doesn't like them either. She seems to think they want the credit for helping Hokum to help spread their faith... I don't really know a lot about them but... I just find it hard to think people going around healing others are like that. I guess I'm just being naive." They still seem off about it but they are accepting it. Like taking a fact they are not comfortable with but just can't think of a way to counter it.
To Muir Vin adds "I think there will likely be a joint effort to protect the portal. It's too public at this point. All the survivors know about it and I doubt they will all stay here after what happened."
Vin then looks to Goldsheaf and says "You've done great leading the people of Hokum through all of this. They really should be looking to you for what to do next now you are here. What else do you need from us? Sounds like we have limited time before we need to head back to Marblestead."
Master Gore sits back in his chair and caresses his chin "that's a lot of undertaking, for my part I'd be happy to distrubute funds and such, though it isn't really my right to say no to requests, though I'm sure me an Goldsheaf can discuss allocation to the most important bits first and then after that we'll see what we got left, if anything... I'll be more like a guardian of the gold than anything else, is that acceptable? As for Hirsi, she's eager to help, but I'm not sure she's ready to face the possibilities of whatever could force its way through a portal to another plane, it's her decision, but if she accepts, she'll definitely need help...
As for those acorn things I can certainly take a look, they sound like an old kind of magic, you say they struck temporary rifts to another place? Interesting indeed..."
"If it's security of Northmorrah, a detail will be sent from the legion to assess and assist, whatever we decide here I will have to report for security sake" says over stretching his arms from the tightness of the bandages surrounding his torso, "speaking of, I wouldn't mind accompanying you all back to at least Trundlesten, I'm sure by now my sister will be ready to give me a beating for making her wait so long without news."
"I wouldn't blame yourself Mr Muir" Goldsheaf casts a calculating eye around the table before continuing, "I have a feeling they would have turned up either way, this isn't like them, overzealous I can account for, but it feels like something has them on edge, they're terrified. Likely something to do with that boy, speaker they called him, right? We normally have close dealings with Lyvander, closer dealings than marblestead anyway by simple point of proximity, they import some staple foods from us that they either can't or don't want to grow themselves. Their pillars keep them predictable but relying to heavily on an immovable set of principles will always lead to a break down, I do think they want to help, and I don't like this situation, but the situation is dire either way. I think it's worth keeping them here to help rebuild, get us on our feet, in exchange for information, however it should be a joint effort, those who are sent from marblestead will also work under direction, and guidance of myself and my council, with myself and Gore overseeing expenditures...
I am curious though, what can you tell me of that boy, of his visions?"
To Iver Vin looks to him and says relieved "I kind of promised her I would bring you back if able. Fairly sure she might kill me if I didn't." He looks at the bandages and asks "Was there trouble healing the, umm... burns?"
To the question if the visions though Vin adds, "Well... I think they were going to tell us. Ebb seemed really stressed by it for sure. I asked, hoping we changed it a bit, then we were told to talk about it more privately. Kind of makes me worry if we didn't and there's more coming... sounds like Lyvander is involved with one of them."
"I think, Master Gore, we feel the money should go to works that would help the whole of the town, not restore any singular individuals. Not being a person, or people really, of possessions we thought it might be beneficial to give you oversight of the money. Perhaps not deciding how each coin is spent so much as have a veto over any spending if it does not seem to be of general benefit as opposed to private?" Sam suggests. "Of course you could bring in trusted assistants as you felt was needed..."
"And I'm not sure about Muir but I personally think Hirsi much too young to be tasked with holding back an intrusion of ill intended fey... I'm not sure what the prior persons role was but I was thinking more an early warning system than a counter strike. Someone who would be alert and be able to warn others if something did happen?"
"Mayor Goldsheaf, I'm afraid I don't think Ebb shared much about his visions before he left us." Sam answers her then turns to the others.
"Did he?"
After allowing the others a chance to reply, Sam continues. "I think this little power play to knock Te'louim down a bit has perhaps played out enough. No need to overly antagonize him, and I cannot believe I am the one saying that! But the thought did occur... If you invited him back in then perhaps you could reveal to him that which you choose to do so and then ask that you and he speak on the matters alone for a bit. If you excuse everyone else from the room then perhaps my friends and I could get some time to talk to Ebb away from Te'louim and maybe get some information from him?"
Gewyn puts a friendly hand on Vin's shoulder. "You're not naive. You're an idealist. Your priorities are clear, and helping people is at the top of that list. That's not to say the Clerics of Hermes aren't here to help. I'm sure they are, and I'm sure they will. But with men like Te'louim, there's no telling at a glance what other things might be dancing around with 'helping people' at the top of their priorities list. And so that's why when people like you meet people like him, we get politics. A made up world where we have to play a game shouldn't matter, do and say things that don't seem important, and vie for unspoken positions that don't mean anything. But it does matter. It is important. And it can mean everything."
He gives a hard pat. "But don't worry about learning the rules of this game, as long as you've got us around. I think you're the purest of us all, so we'll carve a path for you through all the politics, so your good intentions don't get twisted into someone else's paycheck."
As Sam speaks about Goldsheaf speaking privately with Te'louim, Gewyn points at him and says, "Yes. That. Softens the snub we've just given him, salves his ego, and gives us some quality time with Ebb."He pulls out his pipes. "Go easy on Ebb at first. Buy me one minute to set the mood," he waves his pipes in the air, "And we'll get whatever we need."
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"I'm sorry, but I do not understand," Sam replies once they've all settled in and taken seats. "I'm just a simple Half-Orc. A working man. I haven't seen the things you have seen. I haven't done what you have done. Me and my friends here, all we did was expell the redcaps that were in this city, kill the giant under the mountains and rid this world of that hag that seemed behind it all. So please, excuse me for not being up on current events but... Who are you? Why are you in charge? You're talking investigations and protective measures but did I miss the part where the people of Hokum put you in charge?"
"Did we miss an election?" Sam asks turning to Muir.
"Did their people show up before all the fighting was done?" he asks, this time turning to Elthana.
"I'm sure the people are pleased to have full bellies and their ills tended to but why are no leaders of Hokum here if you are indeed working for the interests of Hokum?" Sam says turning back to their elven savior in chief.
Muir nods agreeing with Sam “What Sam here says is true. We along with our Hokum friends have saved the town, and defeated the evil causing this. We are here to help equally not to take orders. There is much to speak about as equals.”
Elthana walks in a bit late, but right before Gewyn and takes a seat between Sam and Goldsheaf. She listens as the high priest starts the conversation, still wondering who this person was.
Missing the confrontation about Neferox, she then finds it interesting on how Sam and Muir start in. Finally she raises her hand slightly and asks, "I'm sorry, but who are you? And why are you taking charge at the moment? I mean isn't Ebb here the new found Speaker of Hermes?" she points towards him with her palm up. "And not only that, this is Hokum, isn't it? I believe it is Goldsheaf's town? Her's and her people that is." giving a sideways look to Sam.
"We dealt with Fey that have found their way to our plane apparently and they have made their way back to their home. It would be good to have the portal we found in the mountain guarded by at least a keeper. I do feel Muir is the best to direct this."
As people direct questions at the elf, he begins writing, not really making eye contact with anyone he mouths along to the things he writes, 'Redcaps, Giant, Hag, Fae, Portal'.
Goldsheaf does shift a little uncomfortably, "it was a point I was going to raise too, not to seem unappreciative, but I am the acting mayor of this town, we may be more of a logistical import and export kind of town but this town is not just a business, it is my people and my home. Whatever investigations you want to do will have to be officially sanctioned by myself and what remains of my council, and Not assumed by the order of Hermes", Ebb looks to the floor, like a child being chastised. Te'louim however adopts a sickly smile, "of course mayor, with no one in charge we simply acted in response to a crisis, now that you are here we will obviously act on your discretion, but this will be transactional nonetheless. We have an oath to uphold, but do not forget, healing and supplying aid are but pillars of our main goal, which has always been and remains to be Conflict mediation. It appears that the conflict itself has resolved with help of this fine group here, though I'm sure we would all like details so that we can assure that nothing has been missed, and we can avoid another invasion in the future".
Seemingly ignoring the elf, Gore looks over to Elthana with an eyebrow raised, "a portal in the mountain would definitely be something that would come under the keepers purview, our focus is the protection of all of the natural order in this land, not just the forests, but the towns and the people's too" he gives a warm smile to Elthana and a wink to Muir.
"There are more portals than just in the mountain," Sam says ominously and leans back in his chair.
"Mayor Goldsheaf, I am sorry for what your city has been through and I am afraid it is still close to several potential dangers. My companions and I will be happy to reveal all we know to you once we can discuss these things in a trusted forum," Sam says, side-eyeing Te'louim briefly before continuing. "Help has already been approved and sent by the council of Marblestead and if you have specific needs I can relay those as well. But I am a simple man and I been through a lot lately and this... Te'letubbie, was it? I don't know him. Quite frankly, I don't trust him. Snooty, acting in charge with no mandate, trying to divvy up who from my group is acceptable or not... A force of priests and paladin on your streets, doing good yes but also looking one step away from being an occupation force. I would be happier to give our information to you and you, as leader of Hokum, can decide how that information is best used."
"Sorry but... Ebb? Do you even vouch for this guy? I mean you left with the treasury funds and I still trust you more than this guy..."
Muir snickers and catches himself with a cough “Ah so this is the one that absconded with all your money. I don’t remember which pillar of Hermes says anything about that.” Muir stops himself from going any further “So then Goldsheaf it is up to you, shall we proceed?”
Te'louim merely sits back in his chair, unaffected by the words of a brute, he watches Goldsheaf closely and then when Sam directs a question to Ebb, the elf turns to regard his new messenger of the god.
Ebb looks up toward Sam, "we are trying to do good Sam, and I'm trying to prevent another incursion happening at Lyvander, it is my home, my people, anything that can be learned here can help. I think I've been given these visions in order to prepare us, why would I be shown things if they are set in stone? My teachings rely upon the basis that we influence our own destiny, we are here to help, I promise... Also I can return the money, I completely forgot I had it until I got halfway to Lyvander..."
"I'd like to discuss some things with this group and the leader of hokums chapter of the keepers, if you'd excuse us til then I would appreciate it." Goldsheaf says to Te'louim gesturing toward the door.
"Could we please do some introductions? I do not know who this elf is."
She smiles back at Gore, "I was thinking the same thing."
Gewyn places his mirror on the table and smiles as he idly runs a finger around its rim. "It think that is a grand idea. I think we should all do introductions as we seem to have gotten off on the wrong foot. We are the members of a response force put together by the council of Marblestead consisting of representatives of every major faction therein. Sorry," he corrects himself, looking at Ebb. "Every major faction less the Clerics of Hermes. Elthana, Sam, Vin, Neferox, and of course, myself, Gewyn. We all answer to and work in service of those factions of the council, excepting of course, the Clerics of Hermes. We are also joined by a Master of the Keepers of the Woods, Master Muir." He turns to Te'louim. "Now you whose name and position are unknown to me, say this will be transactional. That leaves my first impression of you as being one possessed of much wisdom and pragmatism."
Gewyn sits forward in his seat and steeples his fingers. "So let's lay some groundwork so we all know where things stand. In this transaction, what we are selling is that we came in, rallied the people, procured reinforcements on site, and risked life and limb to resolve this conflict you were tasked with mediating." He shifts so that the fresh scar on his chest peeks out of his deep v-shaped collar "There is talk of us also providing information to you to assist you in further endeavors regarding Lyvander, a place in which we, the council's chosen agents, have no official involvement as of yet. Now we greatly look forward to hearing what your side of this proposed transaction will be, but first we owe our much vied-for time and attention to our gracious host, Goldsheaf. I very genuinely look forward to gracious and cordial collaboration with you all, especially now that we all have a bit better of an idea of how things stand."
Gewyn rises to punctuate his last word, and gives a nod to Goldsheaf.
Persuasion: 13
"My name is Te'louim, high priest in understudy to The High Priest Holm, a council member of your city. and this is Ebb, messianic speaker, and vessel of Hermes himself." There is an impatience in the elf's voice and Ebb goes rosy in his cheeks, embarrassed as his superior begins naming his apparent titles.
"Master Gore, Leader of hokum's druidic chapter of the keepers" Gore states with high amusement, apparently introducing himself just to mock the elf.
"...and I believe I have already been introduced to everyone after having my position somewhat called into question, now please, Ebb, Priest Te'louim. We'll only be a moment..." With that Goldsheaf gestures to the door once more and Te'louim rises wordlessly, closing his notebook and exits alongside Ebb.
.
"Now" sighs Goldsheaf, "You said that marblestead is sending aid? What can we expect?" She looks at Sam, prodding him to begin proceedings.
"Thanks mayor," Sam says with perhaps a hint of a satisfied grin.
"Earlier today I got a message by Sending Stone from my sponsor that aid has been approved by the Council and a band has already set out to Trundlesten. Smiths and builders as well. I'm afraid I have no further details as the stones dictate we be a bit on the brief side. I will ask for more details when next we can communicate. Tomorrow. If you have specific needs let me know and I will try to get that across as well..." Sam answers. He's sure the Council wouldn't send enough and halfly the wrong stuff, but that is what Councils do whether told better or not. "Leastwise, I have no indication they're sending an armed force of paladins to patrol your streets whether you want it or not..."
"But there are other concerns you need know about. As I mentioned, there may be other portals. We believe temporary but still potentially quite a problem," Sam advises and he explains about the trees and what they know, and suspect, what has come out of them. "You must believe me, I had no reason to suspect these would be anything but ordinary wooden trees or I'd not of..."
Sam sighs and shrugs. He is good at both and finds they give him a chance to collect his thoughts...
"Master Gore," Sam says formally when he continues. "I have already agreed to allow Muir and others of your kind to examine the acorns I have left. Mind you, examine... Not have. No matter if potentially a threat or not they are a gift that I need return when I return to Marblestead. If one need be used to experiment or such then perhaps we could negotiate that out but I'm a man of my word and I said I would return any I did not need to use... You understand, I'm sure."
Sam fidgets a bit and hesitates but it is clear he isn't done quite yet. When he does speak again it is with the tone of one delivering bad news. "Jimmy... My sponsor on The Council... He also reminded me that they expect us back for the Winter Solstice events. Personally I'd rather skip such nonsense but... It seems our time here lending a hand has a clock on it. Mind you, if you really think this Tel'Dorei fella and his holy army are a threat of some kind then I think I could skip the pomp and circumstance back home to lend you some muscle here. Marblestead definitely wants Hokum free from the governance of such I'd wager...They liked things the way they were, which's why they sent us, so I understand it... But... yeah..." And with that, Sam's public speaking momentum peters out...
Elthana listens intently to what Sam has to say, but doesn't add anything. She waits for Goldsheaf's response. She has no experience in politics and prefers to keep it that way. Though, she wouldn't mind knowing more about that high elf and why they felt so righteous about taking control here. Also, what is going on in Lyvander?
Muir decides to pipe up "The clerics are here because I alerted them about Hokum prior to coming myself. They probed my mind to see if I was telling the truth about what I had learned and wanted to keep me at their compound for weeks until I could speak to High Priest Holm....I did not wait. I bought a horse with what little money and equipment I had and raced here as quickly as I could. Their presence is my doing. However, I did not know it would be so ......militant.....I think we have to tread waters here but am not sure how. I do know this we need to leave and get to that solstice on time. There is something brewing and we will need to be there....." Muir pauses a minute before speaking on Gore and Hirsi's participation in the rebuilding of town "It was suggested by my companions that Gore should take up the responsibility of overseeing the rebuilding of your town. We would give him the chest of gold to work with but also to help direct which areas of the forest are suitable for logging, which caves and rocks for mining, and where farming can be reestablished. Gore will keep everyone away from the trees that helped reclaim the town and use the coin to help everyone rebuild. I spoke with Goodall and suggested Hirsi become the new Keeper in the Mountain to watch the portal. There was a keeper there ages ago, we are checking our records, who has long since been dead but she was the Keeper of the Mountain who oversaw the portal. Of course we would not do any of this without your support and approval Mayor Goldsheaf. As you may or may not be aware, we do not force our will or suggestions onto anyone. We are here to help" Muir looks around the room for support and then to Gore
Vin was used to this kind of treatment to Nef. Folks just weren't comfortable with her. As such he was preparing to stay outside with her and wonder around the town to help but something happened that Vin never expected. Both Sam and Muir spoke up for her. Vin was normally the only one who did so. Relegated to staying outside with her or doing things that she could be allowed to join in. What's more the folks acquiesced and granted her permission to join as well. Vin doesn't know what it is about this group but... slowly... Nef is becoming a part of it. Not just something watching Vin and protecting him but as a part of a group working together. Vin doesn't interrupt the exchange as Nef nods in acknowledgment to the pair that spoke up for her and follows in.
Vin is for the most part quiet and contemplative. He listens. He also seems confused as folks don't really give thanks as much as assert dominance over Hokum for the people here. Vin is glad they are all speaking up for the folks here although he's not sure the others needed to do so. What's more is folks seem hesitant to give information to the clerics. Vin can't fathom why but lets the others decide how to give information to those gathered here but wants to add his own bits as seems fitting for the conversation. He's very surprised when they ask the cleric's to leave. He can't help but think, why are they being so rude? Whatever the case Neferox seems to sense their uncertainty and looks to him as he just furrows his brown in further confusion.
With Te'louim and Ebb having left the first one to speak is Goldsheaf. She seems to be eager to take charge. Vin for his part just feels bad about whatever happened here. Like for some reason everyone sees the clerics as the enemy all of a sudden. Didn't they come to help? Didn't we call them? Questions that seem to plague his mind now. He looks to the others and they all seem fine with this as they continue on without question. The young man seems uncomfortable now but forces himself to ask a few questions and add to the conversation when Sam brings up if they are a threat or not, "Umm, didn't we call them in? Am I missing something? Why would they be a threat?" He seems to be really uncertain. Neferox gives a small woof and he seems to decide to not broach the topic again if they don't want to talk about it giving them an out to avoid if they want as he adds, "I'm... nevermind. Umm, The Calvacade will be supplying folks I'm sure. Lord Hemiran in particular would want to make sure there is someone stationed for protection. Master Wooswin will probably want to take a look at the portal personally. His mastery of arcane knowledge would probably be invaluable in determining how the portal functions."
“Sometimes you invite a guest in and they track mud all over your floors,” Sam answers Vin. “All may be well but they looked… I don’t know, too militant to just be here to help? I could be wrong, not for the first or last time either. Just rubbed me wrong..”
“And wrong or not, that stick up the elf’s ass was just jammed up too high. Had his nose so high up in the air I feared he’d drown if it rained. He needed to be taken down a peg. For everyone’s good.”
“Goldsheaf can share with him as she chooses, or can ask us to repeat to him,” Sam adds. “I just wanted everyone reminded she’s in charge.”
"Oh, Nef doesn't like them either. She seems to think they want the credit for helping Hokum to help spread their faith... I don't really know a lot about them but... I just find it hard to think people going around healing others are like that. I guess I'm just being naive." They still seem off about it but they are accepting it. Like taking a fact they are not comfortable with but just can't think of a way to counter it.
To Muir Vin adds "I think there will likely be a joint effort to protect the portal. It's too public at this point. All the survivors know about it and I doubt they will all stay here after what happened."
Vin then looks to Goldsheaf and says "You've done great leading the people of Hokum through all of this. They really should be looking to you for what to do next now you are here. What else do you need from us? Sounds like we have limited time before we need to head back to Marblestead."
Master Gore sits back in his chair and caresses his chin "that's a lot of undertaking, for my part I'd be happy to distrubute funds and such, though it isn't really my right to say no to requests, though I'm sure me an Goldsheaf can discuss allocation to the most important bits first and then after that we'll see what we got left, if anything... I'll be more like a guardian of the gold than anything else, is that acceptable? As for Hirsi, she's eager to help, but I'm not sure she's ready to face the possibilities of whatever could force its way through a portal to another plane, it's her decision, but if she accepts, she'll definitely need help...
As for those acorn things I can certainly take a look, they sound like an old kind of magic, you say they struck temporary rifts to another place? Interesting indeed..."
"If it's security of Northmorrah, a detail will be sent from the legion to assess and assist, whatever we decide here I will have to report for security sake" says over stretching his arms from the tightness of the bandages surrounding his torso, "speaking of, I wouldn't mind accompanying you all back to at least Trundlesten, I'm sure by now my sister will be ready to give me a beating for making her wait so long without news."
"I wouldn't blame yourself Mr Muir" Goldsheaf casts a calculating eye around the table before continuing, "I have a feeling they would have turned up either way, this isn't like them, overzealous I can account for, but it feels like something has them on edge, they're terrified. Likely something to do with that boy, speaker they called him, right? We normally have close dealings with Lyvander, closer dealings than marblestead anyway by simple point of proximity, they import some staple foods from us that they either can't or don't want to grow themselves. Their pillars keep them predictable but relying to heavily on an immovable set of principles will always lead to a break down, I do think they want to help, and I don't like this situation, but the situation is dire either way. I think it's worth keeping them here to help rebuild, get us on our feet, in exchange for information, however it should be a joint effort, those who are sent from marblestead will also work under direction, and guidance of myself and my council, with myself and Gore overseeing expenditures...
I am curious though, what can you tell me of that boy, of his visions?"
To Iver Vin looks to him and says relieved "I kind of promised her I would bring you back if able. Fairly sure she might kill me if I didn't." He looks at the bandages and asks "Was there trouble healing the, umm... burns?"
To the question if the visions though Vin adds, "Well... I think they were going to tell us. Ebb seemed really stressed by it for sure. I asked, hoping we changed it a bit, then we were told to talk about it more privately. Kind of makes me worry if we didn't and there's more coming... sounds like Lyvander is involved with one of them."
"I think, Master Gore, we feel the money should go to works that would help the whole of the town, not restore any singular individuals. Not being a person, or people really, of possessions we thought it might be beneficial to give you oversight of the money. Perhaps not deciding how each coin is spent so much as have a veto over any spending if it does not seem to be of general benefit as opposed to private?" Sam suggests. "Of course you could bring in trusted assistants as you felt was needed..."
"And I'm not sure about Muir but I personally think Hirsi much too young to be tasked with holding back an intrusion of ill intended fey... I'm not sure what the prior persons role was but I was thinking more an early warning system than a counter strike. Someone who would be alert and be able to warn others if something did happen?"
"Mayor Goldsheaf, I'm afraid I don't think Ebb shared much about his visions before he left us." Sam answers her then turns to the others.
"Did he?"
After allowing the others a chance to reply, Sam continues. "I think this little power play to knock Te'louim down a bit has perhaps played out enough. No need to overly antagonize him, and I cannot believe I am the one saying that! But the thought did occur... If you invited him back in then perhaps you could reveal to him that which you choose to do so and then ask that you and he speak on the matters alone for a bit. If you excuse everyone else from the room then perhaps my friends and I could get some time to talk to Ebb away from Te'louim and maybe get some information from him?"
Gewyn puts a friendly hand on Vin's shoulder. "You're not naive. You're an idealist. Your priorities are clear, and helping people is at the top of that list. That's not to say the Clerics of Hermes aren't here to help. I'm sure they are, and I'm sure they will. But with men like Te'louim, there's no telling at a glance what other things might be dancing around with 'helping people' at the top of their priorities list. And so that's why when people like you meet people like him, we get politics. A made up world where we have to play a game shouldn't matter, do and say things that don't seem important, and vie for unspoken positions that don't mean anything. But it does matter. It is important. And it can mean everything."
He gives a hard pat. "But don't worry about learning the rules of this game, as long as you've got us around. I think you're the purest of us all, so we'll carve a path for you through all the politics, so your good intentions don't get twisted into someone else's paycheck."
As Sam speaks about Goldsheaf speaking privately with Te'louim, Gewyn points at him and says, "Yes. That. Softens the snub we've just given him, salves his ego, and gives us some quality time with Ebb." He pulls out his pipes. "Go easy on Ebb at first. Buy me one minute to set the mood," he waves his pipes in the air, "And we'll get whatever we need."