OOC: Just to clarify, it's a wizard you are going to meet, who specializes in cosmology, astrology, and the multiverse. I believe he would be more of a Conjurer if anything.

(I'm open to either option, really. No matter which we choose, the clock in San Dimas is always running)

(DM Question - was Thorin able to sell the gear he found in the Vaults? Or will I have to wait until we hit the town with the wizard?)

"Right. Well, how 'bout we push on fer this wizard? We can rest at the next town easily 'nough. It's only a few hours away." Thorin checks his things to make sure he's not missing anything, in preparation to leave.

"Agreed.....let's go...a quick stop to offload the gear, grab a bite to eat and then get to the wizard" then turning to Hallowgazer "What of the coin offerred for our services....surely we have exceeded the simple guard duties that you enlisted us for...?"

(OOC: Thorin was able to sell the weapons, two shortswords and a long bow I believe, to the guards. The armor will have to wait.)

"Right, of course." Hallowgazer says. He motions for a guard to come over. This guard carries four sack, about the size of lanterns. He hands one to each of you. "Inside each of those is 300 gold pieces. Spend it wisely, friends. I fear this is far from over."

(OOC: so now we are heading to Lugin?)

(OOC - i think that was the consensus. I'll add the coin to my character sheet for sales.)

On the four hour walk (or run) to Lugin, no danger is presented. A few things put you on edge, the cry of a wolf, the soft flapping of wings in the trees, movements in the bushes, but nothing happens. You get a firsthand look at the sunrise after an hour or so. As the sun rises, it casts light on your path ahead, and eventually you come into view of rolling hills. Upon the tallest of these hills is a town. Tall walls surround it, and inside the slanted roofs of buildings can be seen. More notable than anything you can currently see is a building towards the back that stands twice as tall as all the others. It is topped with a domed roof with openings here and there. You suspect that is the observatory you are supposed to go to.

None of the sounds of nature seem to bother Trinity.

Thorin walks beside Trinity and noticing the noises don't seem to bother her, he says quietly, "Yer at home out here, aren't ya? How long since yer've been in amongst people or seen Drigold? The town is just up ahead, so take this time ta prepare yerself fer people."

As you approach, the gates open. There are no guards outside, but you are greeted by two guards inside. The town is just waking up, so there is little activity inside its walls. Merchants quickly and quietly set up their carts and stalls, preparing for business to arrive. Guards also patrol the streets and paths, though they seem to do so absentmindedly.

As you approach the observatory tower, you see a small Gnome sitting outside reading a book. He glances up when you get close enough, and he squints through his glasses. "Hello? Who's there? Oh, silly me." He says, as he removes his glasses. "There that's better. I can see you now!" He chuckles. "What can I help you with, travelers?"

[OOC: I want to try to find some healing potions at some point....so when he gets an opportunity Grix will be asking around to see whether there are any traders that might have such things in stock] 

(OOC: you can see one stall set up with various bottles and flasks, most likely filled with potions.)

Thorin also sees the stall with potions, and makes a note of it to go back to after they've spoken to the wizard. 

As the gnome greets the party, Thorin pipes up, "Good morn to ya! The daft captain... What was his name again?" he looks to the others, "Ah, Hallowgazer! He sent us ta see ya about some creature that jumps 'round dimensions. Looks like a squid or somethin' an' had some island that disappeared with him when he jumped away. We're needin' ta catch up with it."

The Gnome laughs heartily. When he finishes, he wipes a tear from his eye, then turns back to you. "You must have me mistaken for my master, Trajeon. He's the great wizard and cosmologist, not me. I am Felwin, his apprentice. Though I am studying to succeed him, I don't half even a tenth of the knowledge he has of the multiverse and its most fascinating creatures. I'm afraid to say, though, that he is quite involved in his studies and would not be able to meet with any visitors... unless the proper contribution would be made." Felwin says.

"Ah true enough. Well apprentice Felwin... 'haps you can point me to ya closest tavern? 'haps yer master would care ta share a pint or two as contribution? Everyone needs a good ale every now an' then!" Thorin grins, rubbing his hands together at the thought of another ale, and potentially refilling his water skin.

"Well, I think the potential ruination of the realm where - what I assume to be - his main workshop is located may be a better incentive." Abzerilan says.

"Said dimension hoppin' nasty made off with the Rod of Nankon, y'see...:

Felwin seems to go pale at hearing the Rod is missing. "Did... did you say... oh dear. You'd better follow me." He says. He opens the door to the tower and begins to ascend the steps. All throughout the tower are maps and charts to strange and esoteric for any of you to understand. There are also, however, day-to-day items such as bowls and plates, candles and lanterns, dressers, endtables, trunks, and so on. After about 4 floors, the walls become windowless, and open flames and lights are dimmed. Three floors later, you stand before an iron door, ornately carved and decorated. "He's in here. Despite what you tell him about the Rod he may not listen.

Thorin grumbles as they walk up the tower, "We coulda had a pint still..." but heads up happily otherwise. "Why would this wizard no listen even if we make mention o' the rod? You seemed ta perk up at it."

"You must understand, Trajeon has dedicated his life to study. He is not a fighter, and will want no part in this." Felwin explains. "He may start you on the right path, but that may be all he does for you."

Thorin slaps his leg, "Ah that's no problem. As long as he points the way fer us, an' maybe a bit o' advice too."