Urben's SKT

Zack offered an offhanded salute to the two guards as they greeted the company, with two fingers instead of the full hand, making it far more casual, and capping it off with a nod - and admittedly glad to have Darthag off his back. Once inside, he was feeling.. neutral. Some were happy to be alive, while others were mourning their losses -as to be expected- and each person experiencing a differing degree of loss each. Zack kept an eye on the crowd as they went to their homes, a few of the groups catching his eye more than others.

Finally meeting up with Morak, offering him a soft greeting. Zack would sigh a bit during the speech, feeling bad for everyone here for one reason or another. When Morak was done, he would finally start responding. Yeah, sorry you all had to heard the news like that, but I figured you'd all find out sooner or later, so better to tear off the bandage so it can start healing. And that's more or less what we've heard from the others who we found here. Seem's she was a fine person all around. It's rare that a leader is loved by so many. And she may not have asked us directly, but if not for her sending out for relations with the elves, we or anyone else may have never came before it was too late to matter. So even if this result wasn't her intent, it still set in motion the rock down the hill that led to us finding you. he said, using a dwarven saying he had heard one time, feeling Morak might  appeciate it, though he changed the word boulder to rock... all things considered.... And.. unless its just a warm meal and maybe some dwarven ale you tucked away to wash it down, I'm not sure I could feel ..right about takign a reward from people who have already lost this much. I already felt bad enough about borrowing the supplies, needed or not. But sure, I'll be back before the nights over. 

Just gonna take a walk around and see if I can help some people who seem to have lost a bit more.

After giving an appropriate amount of time for Morak to say anything he might have to say, he made his way over to the family of halflings, to whom he must seem like a small giant himself. Kneeling down and placing a hand on the kids shoulders, trying to comfort them. Hey you guys... he said softly Sorry we didn't get here sooner. I'm not sure it would have changed anything. And what I'm about to say is probably in bad taste but he likely died instantly. So.. he didn't suffer. And as I said on the way here, you guys are still alive, so you gotta stay strong for him, kay? I am still sorry for your loss. And I wish I could.. help.. but even as strong as I am, I don't think I could move a boulder...

So I'm really not sure what to tell you guys to do, I can't even really offer a suggestion other than maybe consider asking your neighbors...  to let you stay with them until something can be done here about it. Morak might be willing to lend you guys a room, some of his rooms are still intact. And he seems like he has a good heart. offering them each a pat / touch on the shoulder before getting up, waiting to hear if they had anything to say. A minute or so later the one child began to scream at the other.. ..I'm gonna go see whats going on over there...

he would say offering them all a polite nod, before running off to the ruckus.. And once there, says Hey hey hey! Whoa, whats goin' on over here guys, whats the problem?

Seeing the young human children look over their home reminded Nadia of when she and her sister looked upon the ruins of their own home after the attack. It made her hands ball in into fists, the feeling of grief and sorrow hitting her like a brick to the head. She remembered how much she and Natasha had bawled, so much so she could barely open her eyes the next day. She was still practically a child when the responsibility of helping raise her sister was thrust upon her, but she remembers him and how he had assured her that everything was going to be okay, similar to how he had done so earlier when he spoke to the townsfolk. 

It just enough to get her to crack a smile, but upon hearing the yelling, Nadia darts over to the home, seeing Zack in her peripherals, rushing over as well to see what was going on. While he spoke to the teenager, Nadia tries approaching her younger brother, and if he allows her to get close, she will give him a tight embrace and whisper calming words to him to get him to relax.

Nadaar: Rillex obeys and slinks out of the cabin flying to the roof, just above the doorway in case he is needed. When you hold out the healers kit Grin starts with a Hey wait ain't tha.. but is cut off by Destiny as she takes it from you. Thank you. I appreciate that you would be honest with me. Truth is, if I did not need the kit for the people here then I would let you keep it. As for the potion, if it used to keep you or your friends alive then it served its purpose. I understand why you took these things, and since most of everything else seems to still be here, I believe you only had the best intentions and took only what you needed. 

Destiny, though frail old looking, doesn't seem to flinch as you narrow your eyes at her, almost as if she is expecting what's next. As you speak she remains stern and stares right back at you. This is clearly not the first time she has had been confronted about her beliefs. However once you mention the shrine being trapped, reacting magically and harming Zack, her stern facade is quickly replaced with confusion. She looks back at the shrine, door, and back to you. It did what now? I...I don't quite understand...I. well maybe I should explain. I think you know exactly who the shrine is to, it's no secret that I worship Asmodeus. I have done so all my life. He has granted me and my loved ones protection. Did the Morning Lord or Mielikki protect their worshippers in town? No. Many people lost loved ones needlessly. Its tragic and senseless. But my home is in one peice and more importantly my son is alive and well. The only damage to my home was caused by those gathering supplies they would need to rescue me and my son. I will not apologize for my beliefs. I do not ask the other people in town to convert their faith. My own son chooses to worship the Morning Lord and I do mind, he is a free man and free to choose his own path. All I ever asked was that I be allowed to worship in peace. Regardless, I can assure you that the people of Nightstone, while aware of my beliefs, do not agree with me. Many shunned me when they learned, but when their wives were going to die on the birthing bed they came to me and through me I was able to keep many people alive. So the others tolerate me, some more than others. When I was younger, I used to be an adventurer like yourself, before I had my son of course. Morak and I were part small group, he always distrusted me. But he's come around over the years, if you don't trust me you are welcome to ask him. I can promise you there are no sacrafices or the like if that's what you think. The runes on the door, a warning in Infernal to scare off theives and the like, make them think the place is magically protected. But that's as far as it goes. There are no traps, no enchantments or other magical barriers in my home or on the shrine. I'm sorry but I truly do not know why it reacted to your friend in such a way. I'm...well I'm not sure what would cause that. For whatever it's worth I apologize if he was hurt badly. But I truly do not know why that would happen. Destiny bows apologetically as she says these final words. The way she speaks tells you that she is being genuine. 

Zack: As you approach the family you see that there are four children and their mother. The children are all very young, and most are crying. The mother is currently looking at the bloodstain where her husband's body had been. She is saying a prayer to the Mielikki asking her to protect his soul. As you speak to the children they cry but try their best to remain strong, wanting be please their father and mother. The mother enters the home as you inspect the boulder, you see she finds a hidden stash from under her bed. From a small wooden box she removes a small vial and returns to you. Thank you for speaking to them, and thank you for saving everyone. Please, If my Larlow were still here, he would want you to have this. It would be of more use to you and your friends than to us I think. She offers out the vial of antitoxin and regardless of if its accepted or not she says. You need not worry about us. Our town is strong. We will get through this like we did when the elves attacked us. I hope you can convince them to leave us alone. Shortly after you hear the yelling and rush over to see what's going on. As you arrive so does Nadia.

Nadia and Zack: Nadia, as you arrive Zack is talking with the girl so you start talking with the boy. The boy has a steady flow of tears streaming from his face. He doesn't stop you from approaching, and as you hug him and whisper to him he slowly starts to calm down a bit as he tires himself out from crying. I...I...just wanted to know if she found Winslow. Our big sister Sylda made him for me. I haven't seen him since Ma and Da told us to run.

Zack: While Nadia is speaking to the little boy you speak to the girl who appears to be angry and frustrated, kicking things around as she gives up on looking for anything. The house itself has been completley ransacked, most likely by the Goblins in town. Junk litters the floor and what wasn't stolen appears to be broken. As you speak to her she snaps at you angrily He won't stop pestering me about his stupid stuffed toy! I tried looking but I can't find anything in this mess! But he won't leave me alone! Who cares about some stupid toy he's to old for anyway? I wish he'd just shut up about it! She finishes her yelling by kicking another piece of junk across the room. And what do you people care anyway? Just go away and bother other of these other idiots in town. 

Nadia: You can hear the girls shouts as can the younger brother. He chokes back tears and buries his head in your arms as if it were possible he could hide from the world there and just cry. 

Back with the Halflings: 

Zack listened to what she said, staying low when he listened so she wouldn't have to crane her neck so much just to see him, and when offered the vial, he initially intends to refuse, but, reluctantly accepts. Nodding in thanks It's not a problem. I used to something like this back in the day - help people who were part of attacks, whether past present, or .. to prevent them. Though I know what I said to the kids probably didn't console them much. It's good that you seem to have a strong heart though. That's what this place is gonna need to bounce back. And thank you for this. Lets both hope I never need to use it eh? And I'll try my best.... Hopefully they send someone else to do the negotiations from the elves side though. Speakin of.. yelling is heard...

Once on the way, him and Nadia sharing glances as they both went to their separate charges... Giving her a smile and nod as it seemed they both came to the same place even if it was for different reasons.

In the middle of all her ranting and screaming and throwing a tantrum, he would chop her on the head softly, enough to shock her and catch her attention but his expression was stern, like that of an older brother about to talk to his younger sister. Hey now... There's no need to throw a fit. I understand you're frustrated, and I understand how it is probably stressful to you... And I know you've not only lost your home but your family too. And I know you're trying your best as his big sister to make him happy, even though you're going through the same loss he is... and you didn't ask for any of this. Your life's been flipped upside down in a matter of days and I'm not sure you'd be prepared for it even if you were older. None of it's your fault, yet it still happened.

he places his gloved hand on her head, and unless swatted away or something similar, would ruffle her hair just a bit, taking care to be soft. But you and your brother still have eachother. And I know you know what your job as the elder sibling is. I'll help you look for it... How about that? But first, lets take care of you. (persuasion so far: 18)

He would say, and, unless rebuffed would pull her in for a hug, and say It's ok to cry. And you have every right to.

if she allowed it, he would hold her there until her own tears stopped, if she were still upset and frustrated, he would wait for her to calm down, and then, regardless of whether she intended to help or not... he would start looking for whatever looked like a Winslow.

(Investigation: 11) (Rolled with advantage if she helps, will post both totals: 11 if no adv, 13 if adv - forgot to add my modifier, lol)

The girl is caught off guard when you place your hand on her head that she doesnt have time to swat away your band before it ruffles her hair even I'd that's her desire. Still she crosses her arms definently as she pouts, trying her best hide her tears behind a mask of anger. She stares off at Nadia and her brother, still with am angry look on her face. While she is not looking at you she is thus caught off guard again when you pull her into a hug. At first she is stiff and seems to resist the embrace but shortly after she starts to break down, letting all her anger sadness out in a flood of tears. She cries for what feels like forever before she seems to have exhausted everything she had. Once let go she agrees to help search for Winslow and eventually you find a small stuffed bear buried under various junk. The bear itself is only slightly damaged, and it's hard to tell if the damage is new or old. The girl takes Winslow and brings him to her brother who perks up immediately, his tears instantly replaced with a big smile as he hugs the stuffed bear. The sister embraces her brother in a hug as he plays and she finds a few more tears left over. They're probably gonna send us off to some orphanage in Waterdeep or something aren't they? She asks of no one in particular. It's not fair. We don't want to go.

Just seeing the boy sob made Nadia's chest tighten, her arms around him tightening while a hand caresses his back She was glad that she was able to provide him some comfort, whispering to him that they would find the stuffed animal when both of them calmed down. All the while hushing the child, she listened to Zack and the teen, and had understood where her anger and frustration was coming from, remembering her struggles as a teen with a younger sibling she had to take care of. She breathes a sigh of relief when Zack talks some sense into her, and when she glances back, she smiles as she sees him hug her. Sometimes that's just all they need.

Her smile widens with the stuffed toy is reunited with the boy, the ranger getting up from the ground to quickly dust off her trousers of any dirt. Her smile then fades when the girl proposes the question. "Well... I'm not sure if anyone in the town would be willing to look after you both... But, hey, orphanages aren't so bad, you know? I'm... actually an orphan myself. My sister and I lost both our parents to a raid... We were lucky to have been saved by some soldiers who had been patrolling around the area." Her eyes flicker over to Zack for a split second before returning back to the kids. "A-anyways, they dropped us off at the orphanage in Julkoun, lived there till I turned 18, but I stuck around the town for the kids... Then I got the call of adventure, a little later than my sister, but... Here I am." She gives them a crooked smile and a shrug.

"If no one here can take care of you both, then going to the Waterdeep orphanage isn't a bad thing. It's a big city, I hear, and you two are great kids... I'm sure you two would be adopted in no time flat."

Nadaar, though a bit subconsciously intimidated by the elder tiefling if only due to past lessons under his elders, never wavers in holding the staring contest. To do anything else would've been disrespectful at best, and at worst, only further call to question his own prior motivations for the incident's occurrence. He listens too with rapt attention; and as the story went on, the sense of being judged by the Dragonborn fast faded away from behind his veneer of neutrality. Even after all is said, there is an almost awkward moment of silence as Nadaar still appeared to be digesting it all. One he finally breaks with a hearty laugh, and at least an attempt to try patting her on the shoulder. In spite of appearing to bring the hand down hard and unrestrained, actual contact is more gentle, as if actually mindful of Destiny's frailty.

"My, oh, my... *chuckles*....  You have my apologies, and... to an extent, my sympathies. It is not an easy thing to follow an less openly desired faith." Nadaar's brief exuberance dims into a shadow of itself as he stares down Destiny. "The vast majority of my own people -- we Dragonborn -- outright curse their gods, and distrust all others, no matter their origins! Though in fairness, we were created to be slaves by them, and prayers to others were never heeded anyways... for centuries upon centuries. Or so the old stories go. So, who am I to judge." A ghost of a smile briefly graces his features as he withdraws the hand, and folds both behind his back.

"Still... it is as you say. I know enough of that one to know that no gift given does not come without a price. And while you may use that one's gifts to do good, I fear for you. For no infernal heritage will protect you forever for having to pack back the debt. But, you've been around more than long enough to know this already, I suspect. To know, and have accepted the personal risks, both from the dealing and in the knowing that others share.... strong opinions against it. For that, you have my respect for showing such unshakeable resolve. I...  just hope you can forgive me in wishing that someday you find a less perilous path... or if one is not sought, your ideal never turn into a poison." At that, Nadaar bends fully at the waist in a formal bow. "With that, I should bid you a due, Lady Destiny. Master Grin. For there is yet too much work for both of us to attend to before this day truly ends" He lingers long enough for a final few words from the pair, and then it is off to find one of the guard towers facing the direction river and dripping caves. From there he intended to keep watch, and make sure none of the guards got any ideas about taking pot shots at approaching goblins. 

Well before then, he waves Rillex back on onto his shoulder.

Nadia: The two kids try take comfort in your words as best they can but it's clear they are still scared. Facing an uncertain future that's likely to be quite different than what they are used to, it's hard to blame them, but at least they have each other like you and your sister. After a few moments of silence the girl thanks you both and starts clearing out a spot in the house for them to sleep. The place may be ransacked but it's still intact, so for now they still have a home to live in. Unless there is anything further the two eventually retreat back into the home for the night.

Nadaar: Destiny gives you an appreciative nod as you show some concern for her well being. I thank you for your words but you need not worry about me. It is as you said, I accepted the toll as it were. I'm not concerned about what happens to me, though my son would certainly agree with you and have me give it up. But I'm afraid there's no going back for me. It's no secret that my body is failing me, when my times comes I accept whatever fate awaits me. With not much else to say you exchange your goodbyes. As you leave Rillex flys to you and perches on your shoulder. Behind you Destiny goes into another coughing fit and you can hear Grin scrambling to take care of her once again. A few words mumbled in infernal just as you leave ear shot.

Eventually Nadaar makes his way to one of the towers to await the arrival of the Goblins. You pass by one of the guards on the way and give them the heads up. They agree to spread the word so people know they aren't enemies. You stand watch in the direction of the dripping caves for what seems like hours. The sun falling ever lower into the sky, eventually being replaced by the moon and stars, yet during all this time there is no sign of the Goblins. 

As everything proceeded, Zack listened to what Nadia was saying his brow furrowing just a bit. (Personal check: 20) Though temporarily putting it aside as he listened to it all. While he didn't notice the glance, somehow that all sounded familiar, like a distant dream. he shook his head and focused on the now. Yeah, it's like she says. I'm sure someone would be willing to take care of you here. Especially considering what just happened to the town. In fact, I think Morak would probably hire you on. he's got a good heart and a fair mind. He might only be able to pay you in food... but you'd be able to stay here, and I'm sure he could use the help.. and who knows, you may learn something good while you're at it. And we have to talk to Morak in a bit anyway.... So why don'tcha come with us and we'll see what we can do? Honestly, back when I was a soldier; I wish I had had options like that when I found he stopped talking, his face going slack for a moment as he swayed.... 

When I found... others in a similar situation.... But we didn't have the time, or ability so we had to take 'em to orphanages or next of kin if possible before just leaving em there. I always felt bad, like the people we saved were just saved and abandoned. But I had my duty. And I still feel proud of saving those we could. his face was a mask, more due to him not being sure if he were happy or sad about that fact. Shaking his head, as he puts a hand on his knee to stand up again to full height. Sorry kids, not your problem, just thinking out loud. Heh. his hand landing on the girls head to ruffle her hair in an attempt to distract. Anyways, lets get going to Morak... I can't think of anything else that needs to be done that isn't just moving around debris. And we don't wanna keep Morak waiting all night eh? he smiled but it faltered as his face turned back to hidden thoughts. Starting to head towards the inn.

Hearing Zack jump in made Nadia smile a bit, but the smile slowly faded as he continued, and instead she could be seen chewing at her bottom lip and adverting her gaze on him. She focused on the kids, and tried forcing a smile, nodding in agreement with taking the kids along to the little meeting they were going to have with Morak. Hopefully he could help them give them the chance she wasn't fortunate to have; staying home. She prayed that the dwarf could help them before they all began to walk towards the inn, wanting the best for the kids and wanting to avoid what she and her sister had to go through.

The little brother looks up to his sister, waiting to see what she decides. She seems to be considering what both of you have said but she ultimately collects her brother and follows you back to the inn.  Once Zack and Nadia have finished talking and are ready they enter the inn. At this time Nadaar would be keeping his watch for the Goblins. He may decide to keep vigil a little longer, if not he maybe following behind shortly. Once inside the inn you see that some of the debris has been piled up amd moved out of the way, though their is still a large boulder in the room. You hear Morak behind the bar mumbling something. If someone approached they would see the dwarf crawling on the ground tapping the floorboards. Was is three...or four from the wall...2nd row maybe...blast..ah...aha yes there we are. And with that he punches one of the wooden floor boards putting his fist straight through it and into a dug out hole beneath it. From the hole he pulls out a red tinted bottle. The label has a stylized drawing of a golden dragon flying over vineyard whilst releasing a torrent of flames into the air. The label reads "Wests Best Fire Brandy: Limited Reserve". The bottle itself is sealed and has clearly never been opened. Morak stands up and when he sees any of the group he jumps with a start. Ah! Didn't hear ye folks come in. Ah, and I see ye brought Yondra amd Sarvin with ye. Hey kids...how ah...well...ah...sorry. about..well you know..Morak trails off not really knowing what to say. He changes his focus back to the group and offers the bottle. Please, I wanted you all to have this. I don't have much else to offer, and ye should be getting somthin' fer all the rescuin' and what not. Besides, if ye plan to talk peace with the elves, well we can't afford to pay for that either. But that there bottle is worth a fair bit of coin. I'd been saving it for a special occasion, can't think of a more special occasion than this. I'd also like to offer my rooms to you folk for as long as ye be in town. Though I only have the two rooms, seein' as that boulder there but a hole in the other. I hope two of you don't mind sharin'. Anyway...I wanted to ask what yer plans were with the elves though... Morak looks to the two kids. Is there anything you wanted to ask me first?

)OOC ya never know!(

Zack continued walking at a casual pace, so the kids wouldn't have to rush to keep up. Listening intently when Nadia responded. It seemed like she had been.. not hiding but.. keeping it from me? I mean her reasoning is kinda logical.. would be awkward as **** to be all 'hey aren't you that guy' and me to say 'nah, not me.' But.. hmm... Hies eyes kept watching her, the road, and the kids in tandem, not that the walk was far. Now that I think about it.... he looks up at the sky, his glowing irises still visible even from the side as they bled like a soft mist from him before the glow would vanish after a point. ..I know I've helped quite a few people in situations just like the kids here.. but other than these ones... I can't remember any of their faces... any of their names.... It's like I'm... blind in one eye I can see the events... but everything else is a blur.. all those thoughts flashing through his mind in a short time.

At her final words before they reached the Inns entrance he snapped back to full reality. Eyes searching but not upset, or negative. It was clear he wanted to ask more right now but kept it held down because.. Yeah, we can talk about that after. I think I can hold my curiosity down a little longer. 

Walking with Nadia and the kids inside, they're greeted by a confusing yet humorous scene, that the reasoning for it was made clear after he decked his halls. Pulling out what looked to be an especially expensive wine - Causing Zack to choke on his thoughts as he... Ah.. I.. wasn't serious about the ale, man! he says furrowing his brows like someone took his joke a little too seriously. Ah, wel lthat's fair. use the wine as an offering or token for peace? That seems much better. You have no idea how bad I'd feel to take mroe than we already did even if it WAS for a good reason. But sure.. under that pretense? I'll gladly take it.  And we'll make sure it's used to sweeten the deal if it'll bring peace here.

And  real quick.. before I get to that... You know.. if you rebuilt.. planning for this boulder as part of the structure.... you could make this inn a bit more famous... with the right planning... Anyways.. he says, shaking his head free of the random tangent. And yeah... we got them here for a reason. I uh, know it'll probably be a while before you're up and runnign again, but .. all things considered, would you be willing to take them under your wing? For obvious reasons, we can't but you could teach them your trade... Raise them so as to give them some life skills, and keep them atleast in their hometown... And I'm sure they'd be happier with a more familiar face. Plus they could help you with cleanup around here. 

Zack would listen to all the responses, nodding or otherwise reacting as needed.

Morak looks to the kids with a look of shock, not having expected the suggestion. I...me...be parent? I don't know if...As if practiced the two kids look at him with big puppy dog eyes and Morak finally seems to break. Oh, well...I mean...yes...yes of course I could. Teach 'em a few things...Yondra is almost of age..the cottage should be hers anyway in a few years..yes. I'll have then help fix up the place and give them work here at the Inn. It would be my pleasure. The way Morak speaks betrays the fact that he is clearly nervous about raising kids, but he also doesn't want to see them shipped away. As he finally finishes convincing themselves he turns back to Zack. Yes I think we can make this work just fine. I would hate to see them sent off to Waterdeep or some other orphanage if we can help it. Ah but that brandy! It's too good for those dang elves. Don't offer it to them if ye don't have to. You should enjoy it, or if you so sell it sell it to someone in one of the cities. I don't know how much ye know about wine but that there bottle is fairly uncommon. There are plenty of nobles and collectors who would pay a good price for that bottle. It's certainly unworthy of those elven bastards.  Ah, no offense dear, we ain't got problem with elves so much as these elves in particular. About a year ago they attacked the down. Killed many folk including Lord Nandar. They refuse to let anyone into the forest, makes hunting for fresh game impossible as well as harvesting lumber for town. We will really need that lumber too with all the repairs to come. Frankly, I'm not sure what peace could be achieved that didn't come at the end of an axe. So..you folks do have a plan on how to deal with them right?

Nadaar dutifully continued ot keep watch, even as the sun began disappearing is little more than a glint over the horizon. And he may have continued to do so well after, in spite of knowing the odds of seeing anything by star and/or moonlight would avail him little, if not for Rillex sad sounding mewlings. After glancing down to him, then casting one final look out along the river bed, Nadaar's obstinate expression softens alongside a defeated sigh. "I know, my  friend. I know.... You do not erase years of back and forth animosity in hours. Even so, I could do no less than this.... and if that elf from before has played a part in there delays..." He trails off into a guttural growl.

Over the next few minutes -- if only a few because Nadaar took his time to calm down, the Black Scaled Dragonborn makes his way back to the locale Morak spoke of last for the meeting. As he enters the building, he raps his knuckle against the door frame if none weren't already looking towards the entryway. Just to announce his presence, if nothing else. If/When he is at least caught up on most of the important bits that has already been discussed, a frowning Nadaar began absently brushing and lightly tugging at his golden whiskers.

"Any /official/ plan will need the backing of whatever Lord or Lady next takes charge of Nightstone. Which, I do not need to tell how at best, annoying, and at worst, dangerous their reactions might be, assuming they come in with different thoughts on the matter. Hopefully, if they are wise, smart, and come backed by enough gold, they'll focus their attention on spending the coin first on rebuilding through trade from the other human settlements. This will be costly in both time and money. But, for the sake of nightstone future, it'll be far cheaper than a war on the elves, or abandoning the settlement for far less scrupulous fellows to come in and worsen relations."

Nadaar then folds his hands behind his back, and began pacing back and forth. "That said, major negotiations would be delayed, BUT, I am fairly certain we can convince them to schedule more formal arrangements at a later date. Long enough for the new ruler to at least be in place, but short enough that small concessions can be discussed in talks leading up to it. Like a temporary non-aggression pact  and a partitioning or selection of certain areas in the woods to be used at certain times. In exchange for minor luxuries, or acting as a go-between the more metropolitan societies and their own." He taps the space just beneath his eyes. "As just as a few possible example. Though, we would also need to confer this once Nightstone has decided upon a defacto leader in the meantime. Which, in my humbliest opinion.... Should either be you, Morak. Or... hmm... This is embarrassing, but I forgot her name. But she is one of the surviving guards of the castle. What do you think?" He asked.

Morak is listening to Nadaar with rapt attention, seemingly at ease knowing someone had some kind of idea of what they would be doing. However his eyes go wide at the suggestion he represent the town. Me...I'm not sure that I...well I mean the people look up to me sure...but I don't have the authority to be makin' deals or the like. I can see to it people know a deals been made, and but perhaps one of the guard should be present like ye said. Alara would be a good choice. She probably has the most experience, and without an acting Lord or guard captain the protection of the town would be her responsibility. Thus she would have limited authority to approve of any deals ye make. I'll talk to her in the morning of ye like. That said, I'd like to be present at the meeting, like to know what deals are to be made and how they'll affect the average folk ya know? Though I'd say of you can convince them to let us use the forest for hunting at least and to not be attacking us fer it then we be golden. Would of course would like to use the lumber to rebuild...but we can ship in lumber temporarily if need be.

Zack was about to respond about having a plan when Nadaar came in spouting some common sense. Zack listened just as intently as Morak, clearing his throat several times out of thirst as opposed to interjection. His hands folding behind his own as he saw Nadaar do it, subconsciously falling into habit and standing at attention but a bit more relaxed than one would expect. During the speech, when Nadaar had finally stopped pacing, he would pat the kids heads and shoulders softly, to let them know they hadn't been forgotten. Whispering to them both We're trying to make it safer for you all, that's what we're talking about. And maybe make life a little easier.

When the initial discussion had finally ended, Zack finally chimed in... Yeah, that all sounds good as a Minimum, but what if we try to throw in an treatise. Where it essentially allies Nightstone and the elves? Under the banner of cultural sharing and learning? To better help both sides understand the other? Or.. Barring that, a permanent non-aggression pact? Afterall from what I've heard, it seems despite the elves killing the Lord, the Lady never sought vengeance, and the town never retaliated, and even they would be fools to try to argue against that or claim otherwise. And since Nighstone hasn't taken aggressive action towards them, nor killed a single member of their people... unless they lack any semblance of honor he coughed, thinking back to that one ******* elf... They would be all but honorbound to accept considering their actions or be seen as repugnant in the eyes of other nations - as all you have done in response, is seek peace yourselves..

barring that... We can still follow the 'let us hunt and be left alone' path if my suggestions are too far out there... But you guys gotta ask for atleast a century.... to give you time to rebuild and recover fully. And find other ways to build trade.  It takes Zack another moment, before he realizes...OH SHIT, Wait! Elves usually have some amount of druids don't they? Druids can make things grow... and if the elves have a problem with you cuttign down the real tree's... couldn't they help rebuild with their nature magic?

Morak simply shrugs at all the suggestions being put before him. If you think ye can get the elves to agree to those terms then by all means try. All we want is to be able to provide for ourselves without risk of being murdered for it. And it is as you said, the lady never once tried to retaliate against the sodding elves. We had some minor skirmishes between one another before they attacked the village, but I assure ye we always acted in self defense. Any attempt to enter the forest they treat as an invasion.  And I don't know if they have any druids or magic users in their clan but, well, they are elves so it wouldn't be a surprise. But as far as I know they never used much magic against us. But again if they do then maybe we can come to an agreement afterall.

Nadaar went from nodding approvingly to Morak to staring disapprovingly at Zack. Rather than interrupt however, he politely listens, but folded his arms across his chest and never really appears more than mildly intrigued over the presented points. When Zack shows a sign of mindfulness about the suggestion though, Nadaar cannot help but nod slowly and ease the tension from hsi shoulders. At the final suggestion of druids, he quirks a brow ridge, then looks over at Rillex in thought.

"... It is an avenue, I will admit. But, you must understand." He turns back to everyone, a grim countenance about him. "Such magic is.... as I understood, at least. Not many Druids from where I am from. BUT, it is a form of divine magic. As such, there are usually far stricter ideals in regards to its use... and at times, greater cost to themselves in some form or another. And that's not even speaking of the risks how such flagrant disregard for life might effect to connect and administer such magics in the future." He holds up his index fingers. "For make no mistakes. Unlike with most Arcane practices, deliverers of miracles -- what most call Divine casters -- are more likely to have theirs stripped away should the source choose to. And such sources usually have very strong and fairly 'strange' perspectives on such things."

Nadaar then claps his hands together. "But I digress! We can continue this in the morning. Master Morak. If you would wake us when you seek out Alara in the morning, it would be appreciated. Uhm... assuming you do not mind we stay in the common room here, at least?"

Morak nods his head and gives a few understanding "mmhmm" in a way that tells you he clearly doesn't understand and this tall about magic is above his head. However when talk comes back to being about a place to stay he seems to convert back to your typical inn keeper. Ah yes. Well as I told your friends here the room are on me as a thank you. Though thanks to that boulder there I'm down to only two guest rooms, so one of you will have to share if that's ok.

Nadaar nodded, and started to open his mouth to say something to Zack and Nadia. But then he freezes, squints at the pair, and then with a bit of sly smile says, "I'll take the solo room, then. After today's exertions, I doubt anyone would be able sleep near me and get any rest. Sleep, uhm, apnea tends to flare up. Lots and lots of snoring, you understand." Before the two can properly react, he turns back to Morak and says, "Care to show the way, my good sir?"

Deception: 15.