The dwarf takes a moment to enjoy watching the feline with the small children but as the owlin calls out to her, she approaches the counter.
"Good evening! Well, this is a little.. hmmm.. not sure how to ask this? But how long do you hold on to lost items? I lost something about 8 years ago and well, I had to at least check to see if there was the possibility it would be here? At the time I lost it, Mister Witch and Mister Light were decidedly unhelpful, but I am a paying customer and I was hoping to find it now?" She twirls her hair nervously as she tries to articulate the situation.
Sweet fairy godfather, another one? exclaims the owlin unexpectedly, flapping his wings in agitation. You're the third one tonight to ask after a thing lost years ago! What did you lose? A shovel? A wagon? The kitchen stove?
Then realising that he was too abrupt, the owl-creature calms himself down and apologises. Forgive the frenzy... I shouldn't... I didn't intend to get so ruffled... I exhort you not to let it ruin your evening... Now, do tell what this thing is that you lost, and I'll see if I have anything here like that...
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How does a red dragon blow out the candles on its birthday cake?
The dwarf blushes bright red as the owl flaps his wings in agitation. "I.. I am sorry to have disturbed you. Third one tonight? I lost a recipe. Written down on a little card, please, I hope isn't too much trouble, but it means so much to me."
A what?! Why on earth would you carry that to a fair? And for what reason would you even...? the owlin catches himself again, breathes deeply, and turns to look through the items in the wagon, muttering something to the effect of "I'd be sure to remember such a thing" or "a recipe? who even cares?" Finally he turns back and explains:
This is the third time tonight I've had to confess defeat. Our sworn task is to see all our guests have joy at the fair, so I dislike sharing dark tidings. It’s well known: certain things vanish here. Gone, never to return. I truly can't say why. I trust the heads of this show do know, and I feel certain it weighs heavily on each, yet no word is ever said. I know it's tough to take in, yet I offer all a single thought: let it go - let it and yourself drift away, and seek delight in the joy around you.
At this the owlin simply shrugs, and adds: Would you like a cookie? and holds out a plate of cookies made chiefly from seeds and nuts.
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How does a red dragon blow out the candles on its birthday cake?
"One lunch of your thicket gets you entry to the tree-knot and a trouble ride. Step right up!", the Goblin said. Mulligan mulls over the words a bit, trying to make sense of them. It occurs to him that perhaps all the people at the carnival have speech problems but he quickly ditches that idea. The Owlin certainly did, and this Goblin seems like they may, but the ticket seller was quite boisterous but his pronunciation was fine, as was the riddle teller's...
Entry to the TEAPOT, he supposes they mean, considering that he is at the teapot attraction. Oh, so it's one Punch of his Ticket that gets him entry. Ok, that would seem to make sense. Still, Mulligan isn't sure he likes the idea of a trouble ride. Mulligan watches for a bit as others seem to go in and eventually float above the carnival all with seemingly no trouble... But Mulligan isn't sure he can trust it. He's already lost a lot at this carnival in days gone by... Maybe he did so because he ignored warnings hidden in Goblin words?
Mulligan gives a bit of a sad smile and holds his hands up and gives them a little shake to try to indicate that he had thought better of this attraction and was begging off. That done he takes a couple steps backwards before turning around and heading... Well the Owlin did mention the Big Top and the Staff Area, both seem close enough. They did suggest he wait until Witch and Light were walking around the carnival but he's feeling a mite impatient. As such, Mulligan heads towards the Big Top. His intention is to likely skirt around it to the Staff Area but he'll keep an eye open and ear out to see how enticing the Big Top seems before entirely passing it by.
Mulligan makes his way over toward the Big Top, and something immediately catches his eye and makes his heart skip a beat. It's a Wanted poster, and it has his face on it! How did they find him here? What danger is he in? He inches closer, but then sees the caption at the bottom: "to have a delightful evening!" It is a carnival gimmick, and even as Mulligan watches, the picture changes to show the face of a different passer-by who glances at the poster.
However, the poster has attracted Mulligan's attention toward a number of other posters that appear around the Big Top. There are a series of posters featuring some of the legendary performers in the carnival's history, which Mulligan recognises, including Thaco the clown, a pair of elf acrobats named Glister and Gleam, and others. Another series of posters displays contemporary acts that are to appear later in the evening, such as a tiefling fire-breather, a halfling contortionist, and even a poster of two figures from Mulligan's memory: Mr Witch and Mr Light, the carnival owners.
As there is little else of interest happening currently at the Big Top, Mulligan makes his way around the outside circumference. At the rear of the Big Top he finds his way blocked by a wall of thorns, a hedge twenty feet high. Through the thorny tangle, Mulligan can make out a large circle of brightly-painted wagons, lit by lanterns. There doesn't appear to be any door or archway through the thorny wall, but as Mulligan quietly cases the place, he observes one of the carnival hands approach the hedge further down... and walk through it! Moving stealthily toward the location, Mulligan arrives just in time to see a gap in the hedge like an archway magically closing itself. Voices are heard beyond, and through the thorns Mulligan can see the worker speaking with another figure, a large, stocky, hairy creature wearing blue overalls, butterfly wings, and a helmet... made out of a pumpkin?
Looking at the hedge, Mulligan feels he could probably push through it, although would likely take the brunt of the thorns in doing so...
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How does a red dragon blow out the candles on its birthday cake?
The dwarf looks a tad ashamed and lowers her gaze to her feet. "Well, it was just in my pocket. I don't know." she waits patiently as the owlin goes through his items, muttering to himself. When she hears the news her shoulders drop, she didn't realize how much hope she was holding onto.
"Gone? Any idea where they vanish to? Is there another place to look?" she knows she's being desperate here, but well, she can't help it. She's never forgiven herself. "Wait, the heads of the show know where things vanish to? Can I ask them?"
Hope returning, even just the teensiest bit, she smiles at the offered plate and gladly takes a cookie. As she looks at it, she's surprised by what it is made out of, but takes a bite to try it.
His eyes go wide and his jaw drops at the sight of the Wanted Poster. Him? For what?? A fear grips him, his mind starts racing, and his hands are already reaching out to tear the poster down... Just as the poster shifts and changed. What??? Upon fully reading the poster he sees the tag line at the bottom that shows it all to be a gimmick. He chuckles silently and then notices the other posters and what they display.
Seeing Witch and Light on the posters half brings back memories he half recalls. Well, in truth, they bring back the memory that the pair are perhaps people he has met before but no more than that. Really just a sense of déjà vu regarding them... and a sense it may be connected to what he lost? It is this sense which leads him on to try to "reconnect" with the pair and poke around until he finds the area fenced off by the giant hedge. Curious he checks it out further...
Mulligan tries to eavesdrop on the worker and the pumpkin helmet dude for a moment or three but not very long or hard, there's no way they'll just randomly be talking about exactly what he is interested in anyway - lost things. But maybe they may mention how to get in and out of the hedge? So worth some shot.
Once that is done (and assuming no spectacular reveal) Mulligan stealthily skirts the perimeter (Stealth: 11) checking it for gaps or entrances. Finding none he considers his prize from earlier in the day - the pixie dust. He could use that to get over the hedge, he supposes. How unseen he would be able to be is a question, though... And if caught how would he explain his intrusion? Mulling the question over it occurs to him that maybe he was too hast with the teapot. That too might be a way over the hedge. He didn't pay particular attention to the bubbles after the floated out of the spout (I think it was the spout) but if he was able to direct the bubble and "accidentally" bring it over the Staff Area...
But no, Mulligan shakes his head to clear his thoughts. He was told Witch and Light would be at the Big Top Extravaganza and after that walk the carnival. So he has time to catch them and talk to them if they are willing to talk... No sense doing something stupid and making matters worse until he has no other choice.
Next up to explore, according to his map, would be the Pixie Kingdom (evens) or the Carousel (odds). Both are about the same distance from where he is and both lead on to further areas to explore... 16
At the suggestion of asking the owners about lost things, the owlin stares at the dwarf and starts to quiver, muttering "Oh dear, oh dear, oh dear" repeatedly. Then finally it sighs and says in barely more than a whisper:
Do what you will, though don't tell anyone I said so. You can find the owners at the Extravaganza, or afterwards wandering around the carnival... Good luck, and good night!
The dwarf nibbles on the cookie. It's a plain taste and texture at first, but there's a frosting with a wonderful aftertaste, and the dwarf is eager to taste some more...
Please make a Wisdom saving throw.
Mulligan
The conversation between the human worker and the hairy pumpkin-head creature is as follows:
Worker (with a slightly effeminate voice): Heya, Burly, how you keeping? The hairy one (with a deep, gruff voice): Thanks Tulip, as good as can be expected. Tulip: That's the spirit. Keep your chin up, big fella. Burly: Anything yet? Tulip: Not so far. Maybe she's given up. Burly: Not likely. There'll be trouble, mark my words. Tulip: She's just so difficult to spot. Could be anyone! Burly: True. Just keep your peepers peeled. We don't want the bosses upset. Tulip: Right you are. Cheers, Burly. Burly: Evening, Tulip.
Making the decision to return later, Mulligan makes his way down to the Pixie Kingdom attraction. Along the way he passes a number of notable side-show stalls:
- a puppet theater, doing a show about a fictional group of adventurers on a quest to slay an evil witch - a game of skill where contestants must toss a circular hoop around the long unicorn-looking horn on a small rabbit-creature - a snack stand selling sugar-glazed button mushrooms and tree sap lollipops. - the "Hall of Illusions" - a small arena where contestants participate as jockeys of giant racing snails
As Mulligan is passing the Hall of Illusions, he notices a small disturbance. A halfling couple holds hands as they approach a glass cabinet just outside the Hall tent. The male halfling is wearing butterfly face paint, and his partner has her face painted like a swan. As he drops to one knee and pulls a small box from his pocket, his sweetheart bursts into hysterical laughter and begins rolling on the ground. The halfling in the butterfly face paint begins sobbing and darts into the nearby Hall of Illusions tent without getting his ticket punched. The unusually-achromatic worker at the ticket desk makes no sound as he appears to call out to stop the halfling, but also makes no attempt to prevent him.
(Depending on what you decide, I might wait a bit for the others to complete some more actions, as Mulligan is probably about at the one-hour mark by now.)
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How does a red dragon blow out the candles on its birthday cake?
The cookie tastes amazing, and being a chef, the dwarf can appreciate great baking. But it's certainly the frosting which makes this cookie special, and the dwarf scoffs the rest of the treat eagerly. Whatever is in these cookies takes about five seconds to hit the dwarf's brain, after which she doesn't remember anything. The next thing she is aware of, she finds herself in an unfamiliar part of the carnival, standing beside an attraction called "The Mystery Mine", with several carnival-goers staring at her curiously...
The dwarf also finds herself with an unusually intense craving for food.
(At this point we are at about the end of the first hour, so I might give some time for YorkshireJoker to catch up)
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How does a red dragon blow out the candles on its birthday cake?
Mulligan fights the urge to push his way through the hedge and offer his help. It could be good to get on their good side - they may be able to help him in his own search. The deciding factor in holding himself back, however, is the language barrier. Jumping out at them unexpectedly could obviously go wrong... And explaining himself to one may just make the other angry and force them to react before they understand as well... Mulligan sighs at the trouble of it all and backs away from the hedge. Only after trying to get a peek at Burly and Tulip and trying to commit their looks to memory, he may get a chance to catch them one on one later in a less potentially surprising way.
He pauses to watch the puppets a bit but being solo the storyline doesn't really speak to him and he soon moves on. If the hoop toss game is reasonably priced (A silver or less?) he will likely give it a try or two. The snacks, unfortunately, sound intriguing but not appetizing to Mulligan's human tastes.
Approaching the Hall of Illusions and giving it a considering glance Mulligan notices the halfling couple. He thinks them sweet, at first - a couple enjoying the carnival together, holding hands. He can't help watching them for a moment. His heart is touched as he sees the one drop to a knee. A proposal? How wonderful! The wonderfulness is soon ruined when it all goes wrong, however... Mulligan is shocked. Shocked! He didn't think anyone ever asked the question unless they were absolutely sure of the response... And such a response! It's just not proper. Not right at all. No matter how unexpected or inappropriate the question...
The male, the asker, has run off before Mulligan can react. He's not one much to console people anyway, he supposes... But he does find the whole matter curious. He approaches the woman. Slowly. Not exactly cautiously but in a way in which he hopes will not spook or startle her.
Are you okay?
The words appear in her head as Mulligan approaches and attempts to make eye contact.
Is there anything I can do?
Mulligan stays a friendly distance away from the halfling woman. He hopes to make it obvious it is him talking but not invade upon her space.
((No problem if I have to wait while others catch up in time or such... Question though, the glass case the halflings approached before the incident? Was that like a ticket booth or an attraction of some kind of? If it was a display of some kind then Mulligan would try to get a glance at the contents before approaching the woman, mostly due to curiosity. If just a ticket booth then *shrug*))
Mulligan makes his way through the crowds, stopping briefly to look at the attractions on the way. The puppet show features a bunch of characters from the storybooks: a group of heroes called Valor's Call fight against their archenemies the League of Malevolence. It's a tale Mulligan's heard before, so he moves on. The little horned rabbit looks rather glum at its role in the hoop toss game, so again Mulligan moves on.
As he approaches the manic prone halfling, Mulligan glances up at the cabinet. The front and side panels are of clear glass, and a1 wooden mannequin of a grinning, raven-haired young woman in witch’s attire and a green flowing cape hovers inside. At the top of the cabinet, a sign reads “Tasha the Wizard — Known for Her Hideous Laughter.”
It's enough to give Mulligan pause as he looks again at the halfling, who lays on the ground laughing hysterically. Her eyes on the other hand do not match her laughter, and appear wide and fearful, as she spots Mulligan nearby and returns his gaze.
The monochromatic attendant of the nearby ticket booth leaves his post and walks over toward Mulligan. He points at the halfling. He gently places his hands palm-down several times and breathes deeply with his eyes closed. He points at the cabinet of the raven-haired witch. He mimics a belly laugh, and then shrugs. Apparently this colorless carnival worker is a mime...
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How does a red dragon blow out the candles on its birthday cake?
Mulligan thinks he understands what the mime is trying to convey, he's had to try to convey things in such a way often enough himself... As he reaches the halfling he tries to stay very calm and very still. Well, not exactly still but slow and deliberate. He offers a smile and kneels down besides them with his hands up and open to convey that everything is A-OK.
Slow, deep breaths. In... Out... In... Out... Focus on the breaths. The process. Just that. Inhale in... Exhale out...
He puts the words in her head and hope it doesn't add to her alarm. He wishes he could convey sympathy in their tone but he knows the words come flat, plain, more like words on a page than heard but they at least more than the mime could do...
It's just a spell or an effect from the cabinet there. Maybe don't look at it again. It should be over shortly. In the meantime just focus on the breathing.
The halfling nods in acknowledgement to the mental instructions, while still laughing uncontrollably. Finally the fit abruptly comes to and end, and the poor girl sits up. Her eyes flit from one voiceless onlooker to the other in confusion, until she asks: What.... what happened to Rubin?
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How does a red dragon blow out the candles on its birthday cake?
Greginald takes a good look at his competition as he holds his ticket up to be punched, he's not only trying to read the experience and confidence in his opponents eyes, but the ones who seem to have already contended in other eatery contests, how full each one might be, how ravenous others are, the gnome hops off his chair and begins stretching, arms in the air and then bends over to touch his toes grunting and mumbling as he does, trying to hide the fact that he is summoning a mage hand under his chair, once finished he hops back up on his chair and seems ready.
rolls if needed Insight 11
sleight of hand or stealth (same modifier) nat 20 for a 21
Oh, would you please? implores the halfling, though she is a little disoriented both from the laughing bout as well as from the strange manner of communication happening. I.. I just need a moment... I'll be along shortly. My poor dear Rubin. He can't go far, right?
The mime kneels down beside the halfling, supporting her, and looks up at Mulligan. A flick of his eyes is all that's needed to suggest that Mulligan go on ahead and catch up with the jilted lover, while the attendant follows with Rubin's partner.
G'Reginald
Greginald assesses his seven fellow competitors and ranks them as follows:
1) male dwarf - sturdy, serious; probably the biggest threat 2) tall human male - a bit of a dark horse, looks like a guy with a plan 3) male halfling - possible threat, although he looks pretty drunk 4) girl halfling - probably a solid contestant, but seems to have already eaten a fair bit 5) young human boy - probably won't go the distance, but you never know with kids 6) thin she-elf - doesn't seem particularly hardy 7) human grandma - unlikely to make much of a showing
The contestants each don their party bibs... Three... Two... One... GO! And they're off!
3" – Greginald bolts from the gate, demolishing his first cupcake in a clean three seconds! He casts a quick glance down the track—four of the other competitors are right there with him, neck and neck. But hold your bets—Grandma’s off to a leisurely trot, savoring every bite, while Tall-Dark is settling into a steady rhythm, clearly playing the long game. Meanwhile, the Kid is tearing down the track like a sugar-crazed stallion—this one’s going to be wild!
6" – Just three seconds later, and we've got our first spill! The she-elf falters on her second cupcake, face paling—oh! And there it is! A spectacular berry custard spray all over her bib—she’s out of the race! Greginald cruises into cupcake number two without missing a beat. But eyes on the Kid—he's already four deep and looking dangerous. Tall-Dark trots past his first cupcake, and Grandma is still... well, she’s grazing.
9" – Another one bites the (cupcake) dust! The Kid, going far too hard out of the gate, hits the wall—oh my! That’s five cupcakes violently ejected across the table in a jaw-dropping spray. He’s done! Tall-Dark moves cautiously into his second, while Grandma nibbles with the steady pace of a Sunday afternoon. But up front, Greginald and his shadow pack are three cupcakes in and still going strong!
12" – Trouble in the halfling ranks! The male is looking wobbly—his fourth cupcake slides down, but his face turns a shade of orcish green. He’s clenching hard to stay in the game. Tall-Dark crosses the mark on cupcake two, unshaken. Grandma? Still on cupcake one—unbothered, unimpressive. Greginald’s got some company though, as the dwarf and the other halfling are still stride for stride with him.
15" – And down go both halflings! The male throws in the napkin halfway through cupcake five—he’s had enough! The female halfling seemed steady, but—wait! Eyes roll, body tips—she’s out cold! Down she goes in a frosting-fueled collapse. Grandma’s still delightfully nibbling, with no intention of picking up speed. Tall-Dark quietly moves on to his third, clearly betting on the long haul. But the dwarf—yes, the dwarf—is still in this! Locking eyes with Greginald, he's making it clear: this isn’t over yet. Greginald, now five cupcakes in, starts to feel the strain. This race is far from decided!
Fifteen seconds and five cupcakes! So far Greginald's assessments have mostly played out, but they are now in the endgame of the contest, and the gnome has some tricks up his sleeve...
G'Reginald is averaging one cupcake every three seconds. From here on, for each cupcake he eats, please make a DC 10 CON saving throw. If he fails the save, he takes 1d8 custard damage.
1) male dwarf - keeping pace and confident (5) 2) tall, dark human male - slow and cunning (2½) 3) male halfling 4) girl halfling 5) young human boy 6) thin she-elf 7) human grandma - would take a miracle (1)
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How does a red dragon blow out the candles on its birthday cake?
The cleric takes a look at her surroundings and the people staring at her, and blushes. How... she wonders how she got herself here. Wasn't she going in search of food? She feels and hears her stomach rumble in agreement. She looks up a the sign again and it does peak her interest. Mystery Mine... well, since she's already here...
She decides to ignore her stomach in a very unlike manner, and head into the mine.
with the mage hand hovering just under G'Reg's chair he slows as the weight of the five cupcakes already clogging his gnomish stomach catches him. He watches the male dwarf, perhaps that man will be the target of G'Reginald's antics. Patience will win this game as Greg eases off waiting for his fifth cupcake until the dwarf is on his sixth. But maybe a bit of goading first, Greg leans over to the dwarf pointing out the dwarfs next cupcake, "are you going to eat that? By the gods I'm hungry, aren't you hungry?"
Mulligan pauses for a moment, a bit at a loss. He had intended they go look for the potential groom together yet the maybe bride is sending him off alone. This has a bit of an odor about it and is kicking Mulligan's danger sense into life... (Insight 6) But it's a carnival and they're just guests, it must all be on the level.
Mulligan returns the look to the mime and nods. He also extends one hand towards the mime and then extends it towards the woman to indicate that they should stay with her. And with that, Mulligan takes off after the heartbroken proposer!
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The dwarf
The dwarf takes a moment to enjoy watching the feline with the small children but as the owlin calls out to her, she approaches the counter.
"Good evening! Well, this is a little.. hmmm.. not sure how to ask this? But how long do you hold on to lost items? I lost something about 8 years ago and well, I had to at least check to see if there was the possibility it would be here? At the time I lost it, Mister Witch and Mister Light were decidedly unhelpful, but I am a paying customer and I was hoping to find it now?" She twirls her hair nervously as she tries to articulate the situation.
The dwarf
Sweet fairy godfather, another one? exclaims the owlin unexpectedly, flapping his wings in agitation. You're the third one tonight to ask after a thing lost years ago! What did you lose? A shovel? A wagon? The kitchen stove?
Then realising that he was too abrupt, the owl-creature calms himself down and apologises. Forgive the frenzy... I shouldn't... I didn't intend to get so ruffled... I exhort you not to let it ruin your evening... Now, do tell what this thing is that you lost, and I'll see if I have anything here like that...
How does a red dragon blow out the candles on its birthday cake?
The dwarf
The dwarf blushes bright red as the owl flaps his wings in agitation. "I.. I am sorry to have disturbed you. Third one tonight? I lost a recipe. Written down on a little card, please, I hope isn't too much trouble, but it means so much to me."
The dwarf
A what?! Why on earth would you carry that to a fair? And for what reason would you even...? the owlin catches himself again, breathes deeply, and turns to look through the items in the wagon, muttering something to the effect of "I'd be sure to remember such a thing" or "a recipe? who even cares?" Finally he turns back and explains:
This is the third time tonight I've had to confess defeat. Our sworn task is to see all our guests have joy at the fair, so I dislike sharing dark tidings. It’s well known: certain things vanish here. Gone, never to return. I truly can't say why. I trust the heads of this show do know, and I feel certain it weighs heavily on each, yet no word is ever said. I know it's tough to take in, yet I offer all a single thought: let it go - let it and yourself drift away, and seek delight in the joy around you.
At this the owlin simply shrugs, and adds: Would you like a cookie? and holds out a plate of cookies made chiefly from seeds and nuts.
How does a red dragon blow out the candles on its birthday cake?
"One lunch of your thicket gets you entry to the tree-knot and a trouble ride. Step right up!", the Goblin said. Mulligan mulls over the words a bit, trying to make sense of them. It occurs to him that perhaps all the people at the carnival have speech problems but he quickly ditches that idea. The Owlin certainly did, and this Goblin seems like they may, but the ticket seller was quite boisterous but his pronunciation was fine, as was the riddle teller's...
Entry to the TEAPOT, he supposes they mean, considering that he is at the teapot attraction. Oh, so it's one Punch of his Ticket that gets him entry. Ok, that would seem to make sense. Still, Mulligan isn't sure he likes the idea of a trouble ride. Mulligan watches for a bit as others seem to go in and eventually float above the carnival all with seemingly no trouble... But Mulligan isn't sure he can trust it. He's already lost a lot at this carnival in days gone by... Maybe he did so because he ignored warnings hidden in Goblin words?
Mulligan gives a bit of a sad smile and holds his hands up and gives them a little shake to try to indicate that he had thought better of this attraction and was begging off. That done he takes a couple steps backwards before turning around and heading... Well the Owlin did mention the Big Top and the Staff Area, both seem close enough. They did suggest he wait until Witch and Light were walking around the carnival but he's feeling a mite impatient. As such, Mulligan heads towards the Big Top. His intention is to likely skirt around it to the Staff Area but he'll keep an eye open and ear out to see how enticing the Big Top seems before entirely passing it by.
Mulligan
Mulligan makes his way over toward the Big Top, and something immediately catches his eye and makes his heart skip a beat. It's a Wanted poster, and it has his face on it! How did they find him here? What danger is he in? He inches closer, but then sees the caption at the bottom: "to have a delightful evening!" It is a carnival gimmick, and even as Mulligan watches, the picture changes to show the face of a different passer-by who glances at the poster.
However, the poster has attracted Mulligan's attention toward a number of other posters that appear around the Big Top. There are a series of posters featuring some of the legendary performers in the carnival's history, which Mulligan recognises, including Thaco the clown, a pair of elf acrobats named Glister and Gleam, and others. Another series of posters displays contemporary acts that are to appear later in the evening, such as a tiefling fire-breather, a halfling contortionist, and even a poster of two figures from Mulligan's memory: Mr Witch and Mr Light, the carnival owners.
As there is little else of interest happening currently at the Big Top, Mulligan makes his way around the outside circumference. At the rear of the Big Top he finds his way blocked by a wall of thorns, a hedge twenty feet high. Through the thorny tangle, Mulligan can make out a large circle of brightly-painted wagons, lit by lanterns. There doesn't appear to be any door or archway through the thorny wall, but as Mulligan quietly cases the place, he observes one of the carnival hands approach the hedge further down... and walk through it! Moving stealthily toward the location, Mulligan arrives just in time to see a gap in the hedge like an archway magically closing itself. Voices are heard beyond, and through the thorns Mulligan can see the worker speaking with another figure, a large, stocky, hairy creature wearing blue overalls, butterfly wings, and a helmet... made out of a pumpkin?
Looking at the hedge, Mulligan feels he could probably push through it, although would likely take the brunt of the thorns in doing so...
How does a red dragon blow out the candles on its birthday cake?
The dwarf
The dwarf looks a tad ashamed and lowers her gaze to her feet. "Well, it was just in my pocket. I don't know." she waits patiently as the owlin goes through his items, muttering to himself. When she hears the news her shoulders drop, she didn't realize how much hope she was holding onto.
"Gone? Any idea where they vanish to? Is there another place to look?" she knows she's being desperate here, but well, she can't help it. She's never forgiven herself. "Wait, the heads of the show know where things vanish to? Can I ask them?"
Hope returning, even just the teensiest bit, she smiles at the offered plate and gladly takes a cookie. As she looks at it, she's surprised by what it is made out of, but takes a bite to try it.
His eyes go wide and his jaw drops at the sight of the Wanted Poster. Him? For what?? A fear grips him, his mind starts racing, and his hands are already reaching out to tear the poster down... Just as the poster shifts and changed. What??? Upon fully reading the poster he sees the tag line at the bottom that shows it all to be a gimmick. He chuckles silently and then notices the other posters and what they display.
Seeing Witch and Light on the posters half brings back memories he half recalls. Well, in truth, they bring back the memory that the pair are perhaps people he has met before but no more than that. Really just a sense of déjà vu regarding them... and a sense it may be connected to what he lost? It is this sense which leads him on to try to "reconnect" with the pair and poke around until he finds the area fenced off by the giant hedge. Curious he checks it out further...
Mulligan tries to eavesdrop on the worker and the pumpkin helmet dude for a moment or three but not very long or hard, there's no way they'll just randomly be talking about exactly what he is interested in anyway - lost things. But maybe they may mention how to get in and out of the hedge? So worth some shot.
Once that is done (and assuming no spectacular reveal) Mulligan stealthily skirts the perimeter (Stealth: 11) checking it for gaps or entrances. Finding none he considers his prize from earlier in the day - the pixie dust. He could use that to get over the hedge, he supposes. How unseen he would be able to be is a question, though... And if caught how would he explain his intrusion? Mulling the question over it occurs to him that maybe he was too hast with the teapot. That too might be a way over the hedge. He didn't pay particular attention to the bubbles after the floated out of the spout (I think it was the spout) but if he was able to direct the bubble and "accidentally" bring it over the Staff Area...
But no, Mulligan shakes his head to clear his thoughts. He was told Witch and Light would be at the Big Top Extravaganza and after that walk the carnival. So he has time to catch them and talk to them if they are willing to talk... No sense doing something stupid and making matters worse until he has no other choice.
Next up to explore, according to his map, would be the Pixie Kingdom (evens) or the Carousel (odds). Both are about the same distance from where he is and both lead on to further areas to explore... 16
The dwarf
At the suggestion of asking the owners about lost things, the owlin stares at the dwarf and starts to quiver, muttering "Oh dear, oh dear, oh dear" repeatedly. Then finally it sighs and says in barely more than a whisper:
Do what you will, though don't tell anyone I said so. You can find the owners at the Extravaganza, or afterwards wandering around the carnival... Good luck, and good night!
The dwarf nibbles on the cookie. It's a plain taste and texture at first, but there's a frosting with a wonderful aftertaste, and the dwarf is eager to taste some more...
Please make a Wisdom saving throw.
Mulligan
The conversation between the human worker and the hairy pumpkin-head creature is as follows:
Worker (with a slightly effeminate voice): Heya, Burly, how you keeping?
The hairy one (with a deep, gruff voice): Thanks Tulip, as good as can be expected.
Tulip: That's the spirit. Keep your chin up, big fella.
Burly: Anything yet?
Tulip: Not so far. Maybe she's given up.
Burly: Not likely. There'll be trouble, mark my words.
Tulip: She's just so difficult to spot. Could be anyone!
Burly: True. Just keep your peepers peeled. We don't want the bosses upset.
Tulip: Right you are. Cheers, Burly.
Burly: Evening, Tulip.
Making the decision to return later, Mulligan makes his way down to the Pixie Kingdom attraction. Along the way he passes a number of notable side-show stalls:
- a puppet theater, doing a show about a fictional group of adventurers on a quest to slay an evil witch
- a game of skill where contestants must toss a circular hoop around the long unicorn-looking horn on a small rabbit-creature
- a snack stand selling sugar-glazed button mushrooms and tree sap lollipops.
- the "Hall of Illusions"
- a small arena where contestants participate as jockeys of giant racing snails
As Mulligan is passing the Hall of Illusions, he notices a small disturbance. A halfling couple holds hands as they approach a glass cabinet just outside the Hall tent. The male halfling is wearing butterfly face paint, and his partner has her face painted like a swan. As he drops to one knee and pulls a small box from his pocket, his sweetheart bursts into hysterical laughter and begins rolling on the ground. The halfling in the butterfly face paint begins sobbing and darts into the nearby Hall of Illusions tent without getting his ticket punched. The unusually-achromatic worker at the ticket desk makes no sound as he appears to call out to stop the halfling, but also makes no attempt to prevent him.
(Depending on what you decide, I might wait a bit for the others to complete some more actions, as Mulligan is probably about at the one-hour mark by now.)
How does a red dragon blow out the candles on its birthday cake?
The dwarf
The cookie tastes amazing, and being a chef, the dwarf can appreciate great baking. But it's certainly the frosting which makes this cookie special, and the dwarf scoffs the rest of the treat eagerly. Whatever is in these cookies takes about five seconds to hit the dwarf's brain, after which she doesn't remember anything. The next thing she is aware of, she finds herself in an unfamiliar part of the carnival, standing beside an attraction called "The Mystery Mine", with several carnival-goers staring at her curiously...
The dwarf also finds herself with an unusually intense craving for food.
(At this point we are at about the end of the first hour, so I might give some time for YorkshireJoker to catch up)
How does a red dragon blow out the candles on its birthday cake?
Mulligan fights the urge to push his way through the hedge and offer his help. It could be good to get on their good side - they may be able to help him in his own search. The deciding factor in holding himself back, however, is the language barrier. Jumping out at them unexpectedly could obviously go wrong... And explaining himself to one may just make the other angry and force them to react before they understand as well... Mulligan sighs at the trouble of it all and backs away from the hedge. Only after trying to get a peek at Burly and Tulip and trying to commit their looks to memory, he may get a chance to catch them one on one later in a less potentially surprising way.
He pauses to watch the puppets a bit but being solo the storyline doesn't really speak to him and he soon moves on. If the hoop toss game is reasonably priced (A silver or less?) he will likely give it a try or two. The snacks, unfortunately, sound intriguing but not appetizing to Mulligan's human tastes.
Approaching the Hall of Illusions and giving it a considering glance Mulligan notices the halfling couple. He thinks them sweet, at first - a couple enjoying the carnival together, holding hands. He can't help watching them for a moment. His heart is touched as he sees the one drop to a knee. A proposal? How wonderful! The wonderfulness is soon ruined when it all goes wrong, however... Mulligan is shocked. Shocked! He didn't think anyone ever asked the question unless they were absolutely sure of the response... And such a response! It's just not proper. Not right at all. No matter how unexpected or inappropriate the question...
The male, the asker, has run off before Mulligan can react. He's not one much to console people anyway, he supposes... But he does find the whole matter curious. He approaches the woman. Slowly. Not exactly cautiously but in a way in which he hopes will not spook or startle her.
Are you okay?
The words appear in her head as Mulligan approaches and attempts to make eye contact.
Is there anything I can do?
Mulligan stays a friendly distance away from the halfling woman. He hopes to make it obvious it is him talking but not invade upon her space.
((No problem if I have to wait while others catch up in time or such... Question though, the glass case the halflings approached before the incident? Was that like a ticket booth or an attraction of some kind of? If it was a display of some kind then Mulligan would try to get a glance at the contents before approaching the woman, mostly due to curiosity. If just a ticket booth then *shrug*))
Mulligan
Mulligan makes his way through the crowds, stopping briefly to look at the attractions on the way. The puppet show features a bunch of characters from the storybooks: a group of heroes called Valor's Call fight against their archenemies the League of Malevolence. It's a tale Mulligan's heard before, so he moves on. The little horned rabbit looks rather glum at its role in the hoop toss game, so again Mulligan moves on.
As he approaches the manic prone halfling, Mulligan glances up at the cabinet. The front and side panels are of clear glass, and a1 wooden mannequin of a grinning, raven-haired young woman in witch’s attire and a green flowing cape hovers inside. At the top of the cabinet, a sign reads “Tasha the Wizard — Known for Her Hideous Laughter.”
It's enough to give Mulligan pause as he looks again at the halfling, who lays on the ground laughing hysterically. Her eyes on the other hand do not match her laughter, and appear wide and fearful, as she spots Mulligan nearby and returns his gaze.
The monochromatic attendant of the nearby ticket booth leaves his post and walks over toward Mulligan. He points at the halfling. He gently places his hands palm-down several times and breathes deeply with his eyes closed. He points at the cabinet of the raven-haired witch. He mimics a belly laugh, and then shrugs. Apparently this colorless carnival worker is a mime...
How does a red dragon blow out the candles on its birthday cake?
Mulligan thinks he understands what the mime is trying to convey, he's had to try to convey things in such a way often enough himself... As he reaches the halfling he tries to stay very calm and very still. Well, not exactly still but slow and deliberate. He offers a smile and kneels down besides them with his hands up and open to convey that everything is A-OK.
Slow, deep breaths. In... Out... In... Out... Focus on the breaths. The process. Just that. Inhale in... Exhale out...
He puts the words in her head and hope it doesn't add to her alarm. He wishes he could convey sympathy in their tone but he knows the words come flat, plain, more like words on a page than heard but they at least more than the mime could do...
It's just a spell or an effect from the cabinet there. Maybe don't look at it again. It should be over shortly. In the meantime just focus on the breathing.
Mulligan
The halfling nods in acknowledgement to the mental instructions, while still laughing uncontrollably. Finally the fit abruptly comes to and end, and the poor girl sits up. Her eyes flit from one voiceless onlooker to the other in confusion, until she asks: What.... what happened to Rubin?
How does a red dragon blow out the candles on its birthday cake?
Mulligan gives her a sad frown and points towards the entrance of the Hall of Illusions.
I think he misunderstood your laughter. Didn't know you were be-spelled. Though it was due to his proposal... If we hurry we can maybe catch him?
Mulligan isn't sure why he is offering to assist, he's not normally the altruistic type...
Greginald's journey
Greginald takes a good look at his competition as he holds his ticket up to be punched, he's not only trying to read the experience and confidence in his opponents eyes, but the ones who seem to have already contended in other eatery contests, how full each one might be, how ravenous others are, the gnome hops off his chair and begins stretching, arms in the air and then bends over to touch his toes grunting and mumbling as he does, trying to hide the fact that he is summoning a mage hand under his chair, once finished he hops back up on his chair and seems ready.
rolls if needed Insight 11
sleight of hand or stealth (same modifier) nat 20 for a 21
Mulligan
Oh, would you please? implores the halfling, though she is a little disoriented both from the laughing bout as well as from the strange manner of communication happening. I.. I just need a moment... I'll be along shortly. My poor dear Rubin. He can't go far, right?
The mime kneels down beside the halfling, supporting her, and looks up at Mulligan. A flick of his eyes is all that's needed to suggest that Mulligan go on ahead and catch up with the jilted lover, while the attendant follows with Rubin's partner.
G'Reginald
Greginald assesses his seven fellow competitors and ranks them as follows:
1) male dwarf - sturdy, serious; probably the biggest threat
2) tall human male - a bit of a dark horse, looks like a guy with a plan
3) male halfling - possible threat, although he looks pretty drunk
4) girl halfling - probably a solid contestant, but seems to have already eaten a fair bit
5) young human boy - probably won't go the distance, but you never know with kids
6) thin she-elf - doesn't seem particularly hardy
7) human grandma - unlikely to make much of a showing
The contestants each don their party bibs... Three... Two... One... GO! And they're off!
3" – Greginald bolts from the gate, demolishing his first cupcake in a clean three seconds! He casts a quick glance down the track—four of the other competitors are right there with him, neck and neck. But hold your bets—Grandma’s off to a leisurely trot, savoring every bite, while Tall-Dark is settling into a steady rhythm, clearly playing the long game. Meanwhile, the Kid is tearing down the track like a sugar-crazed stallion—this one’s going to be wild!
6" – Just three seconds later, and we've got our first spill! The she-elf falters on her second cupcake, face paling—oh! And there it is! A spectacular berry custard spray all over her bib—she’s out of the race! Greginald cruises into cupcake number two without missing a beat. But eyes on the Kid—he's already four deep and looking dangerous. Tall-Dark trots past his first cupcake, and Grandma is still... well, she’s grazing.
9" – Another one bites the (cupcake) dust! The Kid, going far too hard out of the gate, hits the wall—oh my! That’s five cupcakes violently ejected across the table in a jaw-dropping spray. He’s done! Tall-Dark moves cautiously into his second, while Grandma nibbles with the steady pace of a Sunday afternoon. But up front, Greginald and his shadow pack are three cupcakes in and still going strong!
12" – Trouble in the halfling ranks! The male is looking wobbly—his fourth cupcake slides down, but his face turns a shade of orcish green. He’s clenching hard to stay in the game. Tall-Dark crosses the mark on cupcake two, unshaken. Grandma? Still on cupcake one—unbothered, unimpressive. Greginald’s got some company though, as the dwarf and the other halfling are still stride for stride with him.
15" – And down go both halflings! The male throws in the napkin halfway through cupcake five—he’s had enough! The female halfling seemed steady, but—wait! Eyes roll, body tips—she’s out cold! Down she goes in a frosting-fueled collapse. Grandma’s still delightfully nibbling, with no intention of picking up speed. Tall-Dark quietly moves on to his third, clearly betting on the long haul. But the dwarf—yes, the dwarf—is still in this! Locking eyes with Greginald, he's making it clear: this isn’t over yet. Greginald, now five cupcakes in, starts to feel the strain. This race is far from decided!
Fifteen seconds and five cupcakes! So far Greginald's assessments have mostly played out, but they are now in the endgame of the contest, and the gnome has some tricks up his sleeve...
G'Reginald is averaging one cupcake every three seconds. From here on, for each cupcake he eats, please make a DC 10 CON saving throw. If he fails the save, he takes 1d8 custard damage.
1) male dwarf - keeping pace and confident (5)
2) tall, dark human male - slow and cunning (2½)
3) male halfling4) girl halfling5) young human boy6) thin she-elf7) human grandma - would take a miracle (1)
How does a red dragon blow out the candles on its birthday cake?
The dwarf
The cleric takes a look at her surroundings and the people staring at her, and blushes. How... she wonders how she got herself here. Wasn't she going in search of food? She feels and hears her stomach rumble in agreement. She looks up a the sign again and it does peak her interest. Mystery Mine... well, since she's already here...
She decides to ignore her stomach in a very unlike manner, and head into the mine.
G'Reginald's journey
with the mage hand hovering just under G'Reg's chair he slows as the weight of the five cupcakes already clogging his gnomish stomach catches him. He watches the male dwarf, perhaps that man will be the target of G'Reginald's antics. Patience will win this game as Greg eases off waiting for his fifth cupcake until the dwarf is on his sixth. But maybe a bit of goading first, Greg leans over to the dwarf pointing out the dwarfs next cupcake, "are you going to eat that? By the gods I'm hungry, aren't you hungry?"
Intimidation + con 15
Mulligan pauses for a moment, a bit at a loss. He had intended they go look for the potential groom together yet the maybe bride is sending him off alone. This has a bit of an odor about it and is kicking Mulligan's danger sense into life... (Insight 6) But it's a carnival and they're just guests, it must all be on the level.
Mulligan returns the look to the mime and nods. He also extends one hand towards the mime and then extends it towards the woman to indicate that they should stay with her. And with that, Mulligan takes off after the heartbroken proposer!