The captain noticed a slight reaction from Dramm to these words, but it was barely a passing expression on the older warrior's face.
Gabbing with Goblins (Spring 669)
Re: Gabbing with Goblins (Spring 669)
Neil Gaiman: "I started imagining a world in which we replaced the phrase 'politically correct' wherever we could with 'treating other people with respect', and it made me smile."..."I know what you’re thinking now. You’re thinking 'Oh my god, that’s treating other people with respect gone mad!'"
Fail States RPG
Mythistorical Bundle
माया | Gratitude
Fail States RPG
Mythistorical Bundle
माया | Gratitude
Re: Gabbing with Goblins (Spring 669)
I'm okay with moving forward, we can add the RP as we go.
Re: Gabbing with Goblins (Spring 669)
The first day out from Eastfort passes quietly. It is a typical Spring day on the grasslands: wet, foggy and more wet. The road is muddy as a result and it takes until dark for the carts to reach the camp site. The night is much the same as any other as well with the calls of the many wolf packs that roam the grasslands.
Day two dawn just as wet and miserable. It takes until noon for the fog to lift completely and an hour later the scouts find that the road ahead is partly washed out. It is a chore to get the men across, and the carts need to be unloaded to make it over. It will be well after dark by the time they reach the Goblin-occupied fort at that rate, and so military prudence has them decide to camp on the east side of the damage to leave the option to retreat if needed. With several more hours of daylight they see what they can do about the damaged area.
None of the party are engineers or sappers. The best they have is Drotik the cottar's son who at least knows when wood is usable. He reckons the wash out was relatively recent, probably due to the Spring rains and swollen streams. The Old Road was made by skilled engineers with several layers of support and drainage and some of the wood is nearby. With many hands and a great deal of sweat and salty language it is hauled back up the bank of the highway and packed into position with mud and grass.
Its not pretty, and it won't last. But it should be good for a few days at least.
That night finds the wolf song much closer, which is little surprise given how close they are to the next fort. They are all still mostly to the west with a few to the north and just one from the south.Erikir listens and determines they are wild to either side and only tamed by goblins to the west. They also don't know that you are out here yet.
Day three is marginally better than the previous two and by noon your scouts spy what the men have been calling Goblinfort and it matches Earnan's description: a tangle of wood and mud construction sprawling over the old fort and across several other nearby hills.
And now that your people have seen it, its not long before the goblins see you and send riders to investigate. You know from before that they patrol in groups of 20 or so, so when 50 of them ride out to see you its obvious that they are taking you seriously. They trot down the road and intercept you about a mile from their settlement. They are cautious and send a dozen riders out to either side of the road to get a look at you. They do not get behind you but their wolves are quite chatty. Erikir relays that they recognize you, and they know you have beer.
A dozen of them come forward from their main force leaving the other element back about 100yards. The flanking units stay back about 200 yards as you approach.
I am assuming you leave your infantry back and ride ahead to parley. As you do the flankers move back toward their line and remain off to the sides about a 100 yards away to the northwest and Southwest of you.
The leader of the goblins and his guards ride wolves the size of ponies and are armed equivalent to light cavalry. They have shields and warbows as well as spears and maille coats. The bulk of the goblins ride wolves that are on the larger side but not unnaturally so. They are less well armed with lighter bows and minimal armor.
As you reach speaking distance the leader calls out a greeting that you don't understand, but Aneq does. He will translate as he knows a bit of the goblins' language and they know some of his.
"I know this one, he's the king's nephew," he says in his heavily accented Magar.
Day two dawn just as wet and miserable. It takes until noon for the fog to lift completely and an hour later the scouts find that the road ahead is partly washed out. It is a chore to get the men across, and the carts need to be unloaded to make it over. It will be well after dark by the time they reach the Goblin-occupied fort at that rate, and so military prudence has them decide to camp on the east side of the damage to leave the option to retreat if needed. With several more hours of daylight they see what they can do about the damaged area.
None of the party are engineers or sappers. The best they have is Drotik the cottar's son who at least knows when wood is usable. He reckons the wash out was relatively recent, probably due to the Spring rains and swollen streams. The Old Road was made by skilled engineers with several layers of support and drainage and some of the wood is nearby. With many hands and a great deal of sweat and salty language it is hauled back up the bank of the highway and packed into position with mud and grass.
Its not pretty, and it won't last. But it should be good for a few days at least.
That night finds the wolf song much closer, which is little surprise given how close they are to the next fort. They are all still mostly to the west with a few to the north and just one from the south.Erikir listens and determines they are wild to either side and only tamed by goblins to the west. They also don't know that you are out here yet.
Day three is marginally better than the previous two and by noon your scouts spy what the men have been calling Goblinfort and it matches Earnan's description: a tangle of wood and mud construction sprawling over the old fort and across several other nearby hills.
And now that your people have seen it, its not long before the goblins see you and send riders to investigate. You know from before that they patrol in groups of 20 or so, so when 50 of them ride out to see you its obvious that they are taking you seriously. They trot down the road and intercept you about a mile from their settlement. They are cautious and send a dozen riders out to either side of the road to get a look at you. They do not get behind you but their wolves are quite chatty. Erikir relays that they recognize you, and they know you have beer.
A dozen of them come forward from their main force leaving the other element back about 100yards. The flanking units stay back about 200 yards as you approach.
I am assuming you leave your infantry back and ride ahead to parley. As you do the flankers move back toward their line and remain off to the sides about a 100 yards away to the northwest and Southwest of you.
The leader of the goblins and his guards ride wolves the size of ponies and are armed equivalent to light cavalry. They have shields and warbows as well as spears and maille coats. The bulk of the goblins ride wolves that are on the larger side but not unnaturally so. They are less well armed with lighter bows and minimal armor.
As you reach speaking distance the leader calls out a greeting that you don't understand, but Aneq does. He will translate as he knows a bit of the goblins' language and they know some of his.
"I know this one, he's the king's nephew," he says in his heavily accented Magar.
Re: Gabbing with Goblins (Spring 669)
Jiho
Jiho listened to Aneq, nodded, and then got off his horse. He handed the reins to a soldier and nodded for Aneq to join him as they moved a little closer. Not so far away that his own people could not hear, but also close enough that the goblin leader could hear the tone in his voice.
"I am told you are nephew to the king; thank you for honoring us. I am Jiho of Eastfort. We are now neighbors, and perhaps we can speak of trade between our peoples?" Jiho himself, armored well, was relaxed. His weapons were available but his hands were no where near them.
Jiho listened to Aneq, nodded, and then got off his horse. He handed the reins to a soldier and nodded for Aneq to join him as they moved a little closer. Not so far away that his own people could not hear, but also close enough that the goblin leader could hear the tone in his voice.
"I am told you are nephew to the king; thank you for honoring us. I am Jiho of Eastfort. We are now neighbors, and perhaps we can speak of trade between our peoples?" Jiho himself, armored well, was relaxed. His weapons were available but his hands were no where near them.
Re: Gabbing with Goblins (Spring 669)
Dramm will do nothing but pay attention to the interaction and the surrounding people of all types. Since his investment he's become preternaturally conscious of "wrong" … ranging from Barnaby's and Dramm's own casual lusts, sloth, anger and greed to more serious evils (one of which, he brought the man to the Bishop Abbot for counsel).
Neil Gaiman: "I started imagining a world in which we replaced the phrase 'politically correct' wherever we could with 'treating other people with respect', and it made me smile."..."I know what you’re thinking now. You’re thinking 'Oh my god, that’s treating other people with respect gone mad!'"
Fail States RPG
Mythistorical Bundle
माया | Gratitude
Fail States RPG
Mythistorical Bundle
माया | Gratitude
Re: Gabbing with Goblins (Spring 669)
Goblin Reaction roll [2d6]=9
The initial meeting goes well.
The Goblin leader is called Zruk and he is pleasantly surprised both to see Aneq without his father (because they will definitely get to race later), and at the prospect of bringing his uncle good news. And beer that isn't made from mushrooms or millet.
"Great Vuird (the Goblin King) is generous and hospitable. He is sure to welcome you."
For a Goblin Zruk is a fair bit larger than the others. Shorter than a Dawi and leaner than a Man, he is still a hand taller and broader than his fellows and a stone heavier. His elite riders are likewise larger than any of the other Goblin hunters in the same proportions of their lupine mounts. He also communicates with his wolves as easily as Erikir or Earnan can, and he demonstrates that by ordering one of the unridden, normal sized wolves to run back and tell the others.
Once it gets there a howl goes up from the wolves mixed with the harsh language of the riders.
"I shall be glad to escort you," Zruk says.
The two score other Goblins expertly change formation from wary flankers to an honor guard. Jing Ji-ho notes that they are well trained in maneuvers and that they are using the wolves' calls like trumpets to synchronize their actions.
The lead the group back at an easy pace. As they go they see that the sides of the road are cultivated and are being worked by Goblin farmers and laborers. The riders are also following paths that parallel the road and let them move quickly through the otherwise difficult terrain. They are not terribly good farmers and most of what they are tending is basically just wild grains and vegetables that they clear of excessive weeds. They do seem to be quite good at harvesting fishes, frogs and other wriggling things from the rivulets and mud.
Closer there are a few places that look like proper farms growing root vegetables in irrigated plots and hardy grains on the hillsides. They don't seem to keep any livestock that anyone has seen.
When they finally reach the first fortifications, low wooden walls with sharpened tops with gaps instead of gates, it seems they have become the event of the day. Scores of tiny Goblin children have appeared alongside dozens of adults themselves no more than three feet high. They are quite curious and would probably try to sell you things were it not for the guards telling them to keep back. There is no signs of any poor rapport with the soldiers and the citizenry, if anything its a lot more like Eastfort than Borderton in how the people interact.
Among humans this sort of place hardly rates a king, but Zruk seems to be much like any knight in a lord's service. He gives orders and expects they will be obeyed... and they are. The Goblin citizens avoid crowding around and some lose interest but all the way to the main keep there is a gaggle of Goblin onlookers trying to see more of these new humans.
The keep is certainly one of the old Watchforts. Well, it was at any rate. The two main entrances on the south side of the oblong hill are there but so are dozens of other passages cut for Goblin stature and the hill bristles with a pallisade with simple towers at the corners and a stronghold built atop the hill. It is made of tower stones then topped with lumber to form a longhouse and that is where Zruk leads them.
It still lacks a proper gate but inside they can see there are obstacles that can be muscled into place to close it off.
Aneg comments, "The goblins use the underground as their living space, but guests never go there. We have always met the King in this hall."
There are armed guards on foot, and also more wolf riders but the riders seem to be higher in status. The guards on foot though are accompanied by wolves but they are too small to ride, even for a Goblin, and there are many more wolves simply running around the settlement and playing with the children. The guards outside the hall are larger than the others, similar to Zruk's companions. And the wolves with them are equally large.
When they cross into the hilltop bailey Zruk dismisses the rest of his riders save his companions and dismounts. He speaks quickly with Aneq and the Nomad translates that their soldiers can stay there while the leaders go in to meet the king.
The initial meeting goes well.
The Goblin leader is called Zruk and he is pleasantly surprised both to see Aneq without his father (because they will definitely get to race later), and at the prospect of bringing his uncle good news. And beer that isn't made from mushrooms or millet.
"Great Vuird (the Goblin King) is generous and hospitable. He is sure to welcome you."
For a Goblin Zruk is a fair bit larger than the others. Shorter than a Dawi and leaner than a Man, he is still a hand taller and broader than his fellows and a stone heavier. His elite riders are likewise larger than any of the other Goblin hunters in the same proportions of their lupine mounts. He also communicates with his wolves as easily as Erikir or Earnan can, and he demonstrates that by ordering one of the unridden, normal sized wolves to run back and tell the others.
Once it gets there a howl goes up from the wolves mixed with the harsh language of the riders.
"I shall be glad to escort you," Zruk says.
The two score other Goblins expertly change formation from wary flankers to an honor guard. Jing Ji-ho notes that they are well trained in maneuvers and that they are using the wolves' calls like trumpets to synchronize their actions.
The lead the group back at an easy pace. As they go they see that the sides of the road are cultivated and are being worked by Goblin farmers and laborers. The riders are also following paths that parallel the road and let them move quickly through the otherwise difficult terrain. They are not terribly good farmers and most of what they are tending is basically just wild grains and vegetables that they clear of excessive weeds. They do seem to be quite good at harvesting fishes, frogs and other wriggling things from the rivulets and mud.
Closer there are a few places that look like proper farms growing root vegetables in irrigated plots and hardy grains on the hillsides. They don't seem to keep any livestock that anyone has seen.
When they finally reach the first fortifications, low wooden walls with sharpened tops with gaps instead of gates, it seems they have become the event of the day. Scores of tiny Goblin children have appeared alongside dozens of adults themselves no more than three feet high. They are quite curious and would probably try to sell you things were it not for the guards telling them to keep back. There is no signs of any poor rapport with the soldiers and the citizenry, if anything its a lot more like Eastfort than Borderton in how the people interact.
Among humans this sort of place hardly rates a king, but Zruk seems to be much like any knight in a lord's service. He gives orders and expects they will be obeyed... and they are. The Goblin citizens avoid crowding around and some lose interest but all the way to the main keep there is a gaggle of Goblin onlookers trying to see more of these new humans.
The keep is certainly one of the old Watchforts. Well, it was at any rate. The two main entrances on the south side of the oblong hill are there but so are dozens of other passages cut for Goblin stature and the hill bristles with a pallisade with simple towers at the corners and a stronghold built atop the hill. It is made of tower stones then topped with lumber to form a longhouse and that is where Zruk leads them.
It still lacks a proper gate but inside they can see there are obstacles that can be muscled into place to close it off.
Aneg comments, "The goblins use the underground as their living space, but guests never go there. We have always met the King in this hall."
There are armed guards on foot, and also more wolf riders but the riders seem to be higher in status. The guards on foot though are accompanied by wolves but they are too small to ride, even for a Goblin, and there are many more wolves simply running around the settlement and playing with the children. The guards outside the hall are larger than the others, similar to Zruk's companions. And the wolves with them are equally large.
When they cross into the hilltop bailey Zruk dismisses the rest of his riders save his companions and dismounts. He speaks quickly with Aneq and the Nomad translates that their soldiers can stay there while the leaders go in to meet the king.
Re: Gabbing with Goblins (Spring 669)
Jiho
Drotik was already detailing soldiers to gather reins and other soldiers to unload the barrels as Jiho moved to speak with Aneq and Zruk. "Zruk, Aneq speaks highly of you, and Great Vuird trusts you as well. Do you have people to bring in the beer, so that we do not have too many soldiers with us?"
Hemia brought a not fully certain-about-this Maja with her to stand by Jiho, while he himself turned to Dramm and Barnaby. "Thank you for letting me lead on this. Do not be surprised if I brag on you, and Barnaby, perhaps we will get a chance for you to tell a tale or three? Have you performed the undead watchfort lay in public, yet?"
Jiho watched his troops casually station themselves in a defensive ring, and smiled. He'd hate to be the soldier that made them look bad in front of Drotik. Erikir was with them, paying attention.
When the beer was in motion, Jiho nodded to everyone and moved forward.
Drotik was already detailing soldiers to gather reins and other soldiers to unload the barrels as Jiho moved to speak with Aneq and Zruk. "Zruk, Aneq speaks highly of you, and Great Vuird trusts you as well. Do you have people to bring in the beer, so that we do not have too many soldiers with us?"
Hemia brought a not fully certain-about-this Maja with her to stand by Jiho, while he himself turned to Dramm and Barnaby. "Thank you for letting me lead on this. Do not be surprised if I brag on you, and Barnaby, perhaps we will get a chance for you to tell a tale or three? Have you performed the undead watchfort lay in public, yet?"
Jiho watched his troops casually station themselves in a defensive ring, and smiled. He'd hate to be the soldier that made them look bad in front of Drotik. Erikir was with them, paying attention.
When the beer was in motion, Jiho nodded to everyone and moved forward.
Re: Gabbing with Goblins (Spring 669)
Dramm said quietly as Jing Ji-ho briefly focused on him, "All so far is well-intentioned."
Neil Gaiman: "I started imagining a world in which we replaced the phrase 'politically correct' wherever we could with 'treating other people with respect', and it made me smile."..."I know what you’re thinking now. You’re thinking 'Oh my god, that’s treating other people with respect gone mad!'"
Fail States RPG
Mythistorical Bundle
माया | Gratitude
Fail States RPG
Mythistorical Bundle
माया | Gratitude
Re: Gabbing with Goblins (Spring 669)
Zruk bobs slightly at the waist in a gesture Goblins use as a nod, his eyes never leaving Ji-ho's as he faces him. He and his companions are dismounted and he has his men take hold of the barrels and bring them in.
The guards open the doors and in unison they howl like wolves causing their own dire wolves to join in. The perceptive among the party can see that there was a signal of some kind from inside before hand, and from within comes a mighty howl in answer. Then comes what is probably an introduction since the word 'Zruk' can be heard as well who as some sounds that pass for the names of those who have given them. To those familiar with Dawi speech the Goblin language is similar in its sounds but more flowing in its use. Dawi speak sharply and clip their consonants while often elongating their vowels. The Goblins change their pitch more often and keep their vowels short.
Zruk enters first, then the gift and after that the party. The door stays open. The wolves are allowed to run about and great each other as they please though they eventually make their way back near their masters'.
The inside of the longhouse is dark with smaller windows and skylights than a human hall would have, but it has hearths along the walls and a great fire set in the hearth at the end where the king sits. As the group enters shields decorated with bronze are moved to enhance the the light in a gesture of welcome for those guest accustomed to brighter places.
They proceed halfway across the hall before Zruk stops and has the beer rolled out in front of him. It is there that he squats down until his rear touches the floor in a Goblin bow with his arms crossed over his torso. When he rises he draws his sword and holds it aloft, point toward the floor. He calls out in their tongue in what Aneq says is a ritual greeting he's every time he has been invited into the hall with his father, "It is a courtesy for both the king and the guests to be announced this way."
Vuird the Goblin King is by far the largest Goblin present. He is seated but if he stood he would be taller than Zruk by nearly a head wider at the should by the same and greater in girth by double. His seven guards are likewise large, each nearly the same as Zruk and their seven wolves massive as well. At the king's side is a truly massive wolf as large a horse. Ji-ho has seen Wargs before ridden by Orcs and he knows one when he sees it, but this one seems more like the great black Warg that Zenkris rode. Its eyes are deeply intelligent but contain no obvious malice.
The king waves Zruk forward and he repeats his squatting bow twice more over ten feet before the king bids him to stand and approach. The beer is rolled closer and Zruk waves the party forward to stand alongside him behind the gift.
The Goblin King assesses them and then speaks in an even, gravelly voice that fills the chamber. Aneq can't translate it all but he doesn't have to as a much skinnier, but still tall, goblin leaning on a staff decorated with bones and charms and wearing a robe with a deep cowl steps forward and translates, in Magar!
The Great Vuird, King and Conqueror, welcomes you to his hall. He offers you salt and bread as is your custom and meat from the hunt as is ours. Let it be said that a slight on a guest is a slight on the king." He stamps his staff in a rehearse gesture that brings a chorus from the Goblins present that you can guess is a repeating of that oath followed by the excited yapping of wolves adding their voices as well.
A trio of servants bring loaves of bread, a bowl of salt and strips of some kind of dried meat. Zruk and Aneq demonstrate the custom by taking a piece from a loaf, dipping it in salt, and eating it along with a strip of the meat. As he chews Aneq turns and says "Crowned goat." I assume you all go along.
Once that is done the herald continues, "As you have accepted his hospitality so to does Great Vuird accept your gift."
In another social ritual the barrel is turned upright Zruk and Aneq wave Jiho and Dramm forward to help, up to you if you wish to, tapped and and a mug of bronze is drawn for each of those who helped to present it then they drink to show their good faith and of course prove that it isn't toxic. The servants then bring a large mug made of silver is poured for the king. Zruk does this himself and raises it up whereupon the King gestures for him to approach. It is obviously an honor for the warleader to ascend the dais and give the king the cup from his own hands after taking a small, ritual sip he hands it over and the king quaffs it with a vigor any Dawi could respect.
There is a cheer and suddenly the group finds themselves in the center of a feast!
A table and stools are brought in front of the king with the exceedingly large Goblin at the head and the guests sitting side on to him (so that their backs are not to the larger hall and they can easily look both ways). Ji-ho, then Aneq is sat on the left and Dramm then Barnaby to the right while Zruk is sat off to the side as he is not an honored guest but still rewarded from the king's larders for bringing the guests. (The others are in any order you like)
A stark difference from an audience with most lords are that no one is asked to remove their arms nor their armor. These Goblins are a warrior people and consider arms to be sacred things, for a wolf cannot lay down its teeth nor discard its hide.
Outside the soldiers and nomad riders are pleasantly surprised with a feast of their own. Its even mostly food that a human would eat!
Goblin King Reaction roll [2d6]=10 the red carpet has been rolled out. These are your allies to offend at this point.
The guards open the doors and in unison they howl like wolves causing their own dire wolves to join in. The perceptive among the party can see that there was a signal of some kind from inside before hand, and from within comes a mighty howl in answer. Then comes what is probably an introduction since the word 'Zruk' can be heard as well who as some sounds that pass for the names of those who have given them. To those familiar with Dawi speech the Goblin language is similar in its sounds but more flowing in its use. Dawi speak sharply and clip their consonants while often elongating their vowels. The Goblins change their pitch more often and keep their vowels short.
Zruk enters first, then the gift and after that the party. The door stays open. The wolves are allowed to run about and great each other as they please though they eventually make their way back near their masters'.
The inside of the longhouse is dark with smaller windows and skylights than a human hall would have, but it has hearths along the walls and a great fire set in the hearth at the end where the king sits. As the group enters shields decorated with bronze are moved to enhance the the light in a gesture of welcome for those guest accustomed to brighter places.
They proceed halfway across the hall before Zruk stops and has the beer rolled out in front of him. It is there that he squats down until his rear touches the floor in a Goblin bow with his arms crossed over his torso. When he rises he draws his sword and holds it aloft, point toward the floor. He calls out in their tongue in what Aneq says is a ritual greeting he's every time he has been invited into the hall with his father, "It is a courtesy for both the king and the guests to be announced this way."
Vuird the Goblin King is by far the largest Goblin present. He is seated but if he stood he would be taller than Zruk by nearly a head wider at the should by the same and greater in girth by double. His seven guards are likewise large, each nearly the same as Zruk and their seven wolves massive as well. At the king's side is a truly massive wolf as large a horse. Ji-ho has seen Wargs before ridden by Orcs and he knows one when he sees it, but this one seems more like the great black Warg that Zenkris rode. Its eyes are deeply intelligent but contain no obvious malice.
The king waves Zruk forward and he repeats his squatting bow twice more over ten feet before the king bids him to stand and approach. The beer is rolled closer and Zruk waves the party forward to stand alongside him behind the gift.
The Goblin King assesses them and then speaks in an even, gravelly voice that fills the chamber. Aneq can't translate it all but he doesn't have to as a much skinnier, but still tall, goblin leaning on a staff decorated with bones and charms and wearing a robe with a deep cowl steps forward and translates, in Magar!
The Great Vuird, King and Conqueror, welcomes you to his hall. He offers you salt and bread as is your custom and meat from the hunt as is ours. Let it be said that a slight on a guest is a slight on the king." He stamps his staff in a rehearse gesture that brings a chorus from the Goblins present that you can guess is a repeating of that oath followed by the excited yapping of wolves adding their voices as well.
A trio of servants bring loaves of bread, a bowl of salt and strips of some kind of dried meat. Zruk and Aneq demonstrate the custom by taking a piece from a loaf, dipping it in salt, and eating it along with a strip of the meat. As he chews Aneq turns and says "Crowned goat." I assume you all go along.
Once that is done the herald continues, "As you have accepted his hospitality so to does Great Vuird accept your gift."
In another social ritual the barrel is turned upright Zruk and Aneq wave Jiho and Dramm forward to help, up to you if you wish to, tapped and and a mug of bronze is drawn for each of those who helped to present it then they drink to show their good faith and of course prove that it isn't toxic. The servants then bring a large mug made of silver is poured for the king. Zruk does this himself and raises it up whereupon the King gestures for him to approach. It is obviously an honor for the warleader to ascend the dais and give the king the cup from his own hands after taking a small, ritual sip he hands it over and the king quaffs it with a vigor any Dawi could respect.
There is a cheer and suddenly the group finds themselves in the center of a feast!
A table and stools are brought in front of the king with the exceedingly large Goblin at the head and the guests sitting side on to him (so that their backs are not to the larger hall and they can easily look both ways). Ji-ho, then Aneq is sat on the left and Dramm then Barnaby to the right while Zruk is sat off to the side as he is not an honored guest but still rewarded from the king's larders for bringing the guests. (The others are in any order you like)
A stark difference from an audience with most lords are that no one is asked to remove their arms nor their armor. These Goblins are a warrior people and consider arms to be sacred things, for a wolf cannot lay down its teeth nor discard its hide.
Outside the soldiers and nomad riders are pleasantly surprised with a feast of their own. Its even mostly food that a human would eat!
Goblin King Reaction roll [2d6]=10 the red carpet has been rolled out. These are your allies to offend at this point.
Re: Gabbing with Goblins (Spring 669)
I'm assuming JJh has removed his helm at some point in time.
Being a younger son born into a ruler's family has its disadvantages, but sometimes it comes in handy. From birth Jiho had been reminded that he was not the heir to anything, and to support his elder and much more vital siblings. Maidens who wished to marry up in station did not look his way. He learned early on that his military studies gave more reward than hoping for a suitable arranged union. Which may explain his unbridled enthusiasm despite frequently taking on more than he could handle.
His battlefield training also included the courtly fields and well clothed marauders of fortune and reputation. How to parry a cut at one's family, and how to drive home the thrust of disdain. While he learned it, he felt the sting of never being the one to hold authority. Still, the studies came in useful now and again.
When the crowned goat, bread, and salt was offered, Jiho paused. He took both hands and set his helm down, leaving his head completely unprotected. Only then did he take the bread piece, dip it in the salt, and pick up the strip of meat. He held them slightly forward, faced Vuird, and bowed respectfully. "We are honored. Let it be said that a slight on Great Vuird, King and Conqueror, is an attack on my friend."
With that he ate the offered food with enthusiasm and smiled at the flavor.
Jiho helped the barrel go forward, looking to Zruk as to placement. When the bronze mug was offered, he drank his with a bit of restraint; he'd learned long ago that he wasn't a Dawi and should not compete in anyone's alcohol games.
When conversation was afoot, Jiho looked at Vuird. "I have much news to discuss with you, Great Vuird, and look forward to doing so. There are two things of immediate import, and I will answer your questions as best I can." He pointed to Maja, and said, "She is the leading merchant at Eastfort; if you have people who wish to discuss what to trade and what we offer, she is the expert."
"Also, there will be men coming to the watchfort east of your kingdom." Jiho paused long enough to let that sink in and get attention, and then smiled. "No one need fear the evil that dwelt there."
Jiho pointed at Dramm, and said, "Dramm, our mightiest warrior, charged evil's strongest undead and defeated it." Pointing at Hemia, he said, "The alter consecrated to blood and death exploded at one blow from Hemia, the Lawgiver's Templar. And lest you think less of him; Barnaby, renowned east and further east, fought with a courage that would make his noble ancestors proud."
"Wretched things, foul and dire, sought to deprive our champions of life and hope. You are a warrior! Your people know the risks and darkness of battle against evil! If you ask it, Great Vuird, perhaps Barnaby will share the tale with us all."
Being a younger son born into a ruler's family has its disadvantages, but sometimes it comes in handy. From birth Jiho had been reminded that he was not the heir to anything, and to support his elder and much more vital siblings. Maidens who wished to marry up in station did not look his way. He learned early on that his military studies gave more reward than hoping for a suitable arranged union. Which may explain his unbridled enthusiasm despite frequently taking on more than he could handle.
His battlefield training also included the courtly fields and well clothed marauders of fortune and reputation. How to parry a cut at one's family, and how to drive home the thrust of disdain. While he learned it, he felt the sting of never being the one to hold authority. Still, the studies came in useful now and again.
When the crowned goat, bread, and salt was offered, Jiho paused. He took both hands and set his helm down, leaving his head completely unprotected. Only then did he take the bread piece, dip it in the salt, and pick up the strip of meat. He held them slightly forward, faced Vuird, and bowed respectfully. "We are honored. Let it be said that a slight on Great Vuird, King and Conqueror, is an attack on my friend."
With that he ate the offered food with enthusiasm and smiled at the flavor.
Jiho helped the barrel go forward, looking to Zruk as to placement. When the bronze mug was offered, he drank his with a bit of restraint; he'd learned long ago that he wasn't a Dawi and should not compete in anyone's alcohol games.
When conversation was afoot, Jiho looked at Vuird. "I have much news to discuss with you, Great Vuird, and look forward to doing so. There are two things of immediate import, and I will answer your questions as best I can." He pointed to Maja, and said, "She is the leading merchant at Eastfort; if you have people who wish to discuss what to trade and what we offer, she is the expert."
"Also, there will be men coming to the watchfort east of your kingdom." Jiho paused long enough to let that sink in and get attention, and then smiled. "No one need fear the evil that dwelt there."
Jiho pointed at Dramm, and said, "Dramm, our mightiest warrior, charged evil's strongest undead and defeated it." Pointing at Hemia, he said, "The alter consecrated to blood and death exploded at one blow from Hemia, the Lawgiver's Templar. And lest you think less of him; Barnaby, renowned east and further east, fought with a courage that would make his noble ancestors proud."
"Wretched things, foul and dire, sought to deprive our champions of life and hope. You are a warrior! Your people know the risks and darkness of battle against evil! If you ask it, Great Vuird, perhaps Barnaby will share the tale with us all."
Re: Gabbing with Goblins (Spring 669)
Of course Dramm helps with the barrel. He swigs the beer with a soldier's gratitude, and turns to the goblin King to thump his fist against his chest as well. Before he takes a bite of salted bread and meat, he raises it to the King in a salute.
When called out by Ji-ho, the older man guesses that goblins prefer bravado to humility, so he broadly grins.
When called out by Ji-ho, the older man guesses that goblins prefer bravado to humility, so he broadly grins.
Neil Gaiman: "I started imagining a world in which we replaced the phrase 'politically correct' wherever we could with 'treating other people with respect', and it made me smile."..."I know what you’re thinking now. You’re thinking 'Oh my god, that’s treating other people with respect gone mad!'"
Fail States RPG
Mythistorical Bundle
माया | Gratitude
Fail States RPG
Mythistorical Bundle
माया | Gratitude
Re: Gabbing with Goblins (Spring 669)
Vuird the Goblin King is well disposed toward the group and interested in their exploits and tales. The feasting lasts well into the evening with many songs sung by goblin, human and wolf alike. As had been hinted before the nomads and wolf-riders were eager to race and do so until darkness falls and the horsemen can no longer see clearly enough for it to be competitive. From then on they return to feasting and making merry.
The goblins are good hosts for the rest of the night. If you wish to discuss anything specific let me know. You and your people are free to visit and to trade and they will accept an invitation though they are leery of having to deal with Dawi. The goblins are not shy about how they view dwarves as ruthless, uncivilized and unreasonable folk always keen to use iron where silver would suffice.
The goblins claim all of Hex 35,20 as their domain as well as the surrounding areas. They don't control it all due to their stronghold lacking sufficient value, but they patrol it regularly.
In the morning (or later if you wish to stay longer) Zruk and his band escort the group as well as some goblin builders to fix the road where it has washed out.
The goblins are good hosts for the rest of the night. If you wish to discuss anything specific let me know. You and your people are free to visit and to trade and they will accept an invitation though they are leery of having to deal with Dawi. The goblins are not shy about how they view dwarves as ruthless, uncivilized and unreasonable folk always keen to use iron where silver would suffice.
The goblins claim all of Hex 35,20 as their domain as well as the surrounding areas. They don't control it all due to their stronghold lacking sufficient value, but they patrol it regularly.
In the morning (or later if you wish to stay longer) Zruk and his band escort the group as well as some goblin builders to fix the road where it has washed out.
Re: Gabbing with Goblins (Spring 669)
By the time the races started, the mingling was already well underway. Drotik organized an archery contest and was showing the larger goblins how heavy crossbows worked. Erikir talked, through the wolves, about how many ghouls and ghasts there were to their lair in the East. Szabad and Furge happily enjoyed the attention of goblin child and attractive wolfling alike. Maja was up to her ears in business talks and evaluating goods for exporting East.
Early on, though, Jiho waved Hemia over and then spoke to Vuird. "Hemia is a healer, and a priestess of the Lawgiver. She would love to see how your healers work, and to pray for anyone who needs it."
JJh isn't doing this talk in private, so others can join in if they wish.
Later, when Vuird was enjoying the races, Jiho spoke. "Great Vuird, every good thing Azgar Lawseeker said about you is true, and more. I came here to see for myself, and I find a warrior people rightly proud of themselves and their families. That worries me; there is great risk for all of us and I do not wish you, or your people, to be killed."
Jiho watched the race while his words were translated, and then waited a little more, until Vuird seemed ready. "I am from very far away; my people treat your people as equals. Silver is truly better than blooded iron when we can be allies. Not all men are like that, and there is trouble brewing that may soon envelope us all. Brigands disguised as pilgrims allied with orcs and evil mages to slaughter innocent loggers as they worked. You know, all to well, that some men do not discern between orc and goblin. I am not one of those men."
Jiho met Vuird's gaze and spoke with the strength of conviction. "Vizmark has given me authority of all things west of the road between Borderton and Springkeep. I fear that the nobles across the pass may choose to take our lands; even those we have settled. Even yours, because they do not see you as equals. My response is simple; I will fight for my people and my friends. Until we are attacked I will continue to build trade and peace across the plains, and will respect the rights of my allies."
"If you have someone you trust, let them return with me and see Eastfort for themselves. See what we are doing, so they can tell you a truth that you can have confidence in." Jiho turned back to the races, nodded at particularly fast wolf rider, and smiled. "Your warriors are good, you will be able to resist for a time. But your homes will burn and your families will be hunted and killed. Join Jing, so that we can stand together."
Early on, though, Jiho waved Hemia over and then spoke to Vuird. "Hemia is a healer, and a priestess of the Lawgiver. She would love to see how your healers work, and to pray for anyone who needs it."
JJh isn't doing this talk in private, so others can join in if they wish.
Later, when Vuird was enjoying the races, Jiho spoke. "Great Vuird, every good thing Azgar Lawseeker said about you is true, and more. I came here to see for myself, and I find a warrior people rightly proud of themselves and their families. That worries me; there is great risk for all of us and I do not wish you, or your people, to be killed."
Jiho watched the race while his words were translated, and then waited a little more, until Vuird seemed ready. "I am from very far away; my people treat your people as equals. Silver is truly better than blooded iron when we can be allies. Not all men are like that, and there is trouble brewing that may soon envelope us all. Brigands disguised as pilgrims allied with orcs and evil mages to slaughter innocent loggers as they worked. You know, all to well, that some men do not discern between orc and goblin. I am not one of those men."
Jiho met Vuird's gaze and spoke with the strength of conviction. "Vizmark has given me authority of all things west of the road between Borderton and Springkeep. I fear that the nobles across the pass may choose to take our lands; even those we have settled. Even yours, because they do not see you as equals. My response is simple; I will fight for my people and my friends. Until we are attacked I will continue to build trade and peace across the plains, and will respect the rights of my allies."
"If you have someone you trust, let them return with me and see Eastfort for themselves. See what we are doing, so they can tell you a truth that you can have confidence in." Jiho turned back to the races, nodded at particularly fast wolf rider, and smiled. "Your warriors are good, you will be able to resist for a time. But your homes will burn and your families will be hunted and killed. Join Jing, so that we can stand together."
Re: Gabbing with Goblins (Spring 669)
Vuird Reaction [2d6]=7 Jiho has Cha +2 and I will count Barnaby's songs for another +1. The Goblin King is well disposed to you personally but fears you for your leadership and military skill so those things are a wash.
Slelx, as the advisor is eventually named, continues to translate and as he does the Goblin King seems to become an odd combinations of concerned and outraged. He croaks in his booming voice between gulps of beer and mouthfuls of meat so large they would choke a man and the scrawny vizier conveys,
"His Mightiness fears no Man, nor Dwarf, nor Orc. Many have come to challenge him and their bones have been toys for his wolves. If what you say is true, Lord of Jing, then these Foemen will come through your lands. If you allow that then Great Vuird will curse you and your descendants for thirteen generations, but if you should oppose them then His Great Bulk will join you and make their marrow into fodder for his-"
He is cut off there by Vuird who roars in broken Magar, "Let. Them. Come!" and heaves himself up off his throne with surprising dexterity. He drinks down what is left in his cup, dunks that same mug into the ale barrel and presses it into Ji-ho's hand. "Drink. Friend." The Goblin King's grip is like a vice and though he is more than a head shorter than Ji-ho (himself short of stature by the standards of the region) the Goblin is broader across and deeper in the chest in the same way as the Dawi.
Afterward merriment continues and when they go to leave (as mentioned above) Vuird insists on giving each of his guests a healthy wolf pup.
I am reminded that Barnaby has hound from the first time you met the Nomads. It is clearly a wolf-hound and related to some of the wolves the Goblins have.
These new pups may be hard to handle for most people, but Erikir can take care of them for Ji-hos people and Barnaby's hound will adopt them if Dramm wants to keep the two they are offered.
They are all Dire Wolves, the sort that the Goblin Elites ride.
Slelx, as the advisor is eventually named, continues to translate and as he does the Goblin King seems to become an odd combinations of concerned and outraged. He croaks in his booming voice between gulps of beer and mouthfuls of meat so large they would choke a man and the scrawny vizier conveys,
"His Mightiness fears no Man, nor Dwarf, nor Orc. Many have come to challenge him and their bones have been toys for his wolves. If what you say is true, Lord of Jing, then these Foemen will come through your lands. If you allow that then Great Vuird will curse you and your descendants for thirteen generations, but if you should oppose them then His Great Bulk will join you and make their marrow into fodder for his-"
He is cut off there by Vuird who roars in broken Magar, "Let. Them. Come!" and heaves himself up off his throne with surprising dexterity. He drinks down what is left in his cup, dunks that same mug into the ale barrel and presses it into Ji-ho's hand. "Drink. Friend." The Goblin King's grip is like a vice and though he is more than a head shorter than Ji-ho (himself short of stature by the standards of the region) the Goblin is broader across and deeper in the chest in the same way as the Dawi.
Afterward merriment continues and when they go to leave (as mentioned above) Vuird insists on giving each of his guests a healthy wolf pup.
I am reminded that Barnaby has hound from the first time you met the Nomads. It is clearly a wolf-hound and related to some of the wolves the Goblins have.
These new pups may be hard to handle for most people, but Erikir can take care of them for Ji-hos people and Barnaby's hound will adopt them if Dramm wants to keep the two they are offered.
They are all Dire Wolves, the sort that the Goblin Elites ride.
Re: Gabbing with Goblins (Spring 669)
Jiho grew a wolfish grin as Vuird pressed his own mug into Jiho's hand. He locked into the goblin king's gaze and shouted, "Vuird. Friend. Let. Them. Come!" Then he signed the treaty by upending the mug and drinking the entire thing.
- - -
Having found delight in Erikir's hounds and the blink dogs, JJh is more than pleased with the wolf pup and thanked Vuird greatly.
If Zruk is going to go all the way to Eastfort, that would be awesome. JJh will make sure Zruk and his riders are taken care of as well as Vuird took care of JJh and company. He will ensure his patrols and people recognize the goblin riders and treat them as friends, and if they stay long enough for Maja to load up a trade wagon or two, then she will return with them. Rolton and some troops will escort her there and back, and Rolton will introduce himself to Vuird.
On the way back, JJh will listen to Drotik's and Erikir's reports on how the goblin riders might best be integrated into protecting Jing, which now includes protecting the goblins. He will also let Hemia explain how her missionary work went with the families, and get Maja's understanding of the trade possibilities.
- - -
Having found delight in Erikir's hounds and the blink dogs, JJh is more than pleased with the wolf pup and thanked Vuird greatly.
If Zruk is going to go all the way to Eastfort, that would be awesome. JJh will make sure Zruk and his riders are taken care of as well as Vuird took care of JJh and company. He will ensure his patrols and people recognize the goblin riders and treat them as friends, and if they stay long enough for Maja to load up a trade wagon or two, then she will return with them. Rolton and some troops will escort her there and back, and Rolton will introduce himself to Vuird.
On the way back, JJh will listen to Drotik's and Erikir's reports on how the goblin riders might best be integrated into protecting Jing, which now includes protecting the goblins. He will also let Hemia explain how her missionary work went with the families, and get Maja's understanding of the trade possibilities.
Re: Gabbing with Goblins (Spring 669)
Dramm and Barnaby both are glad of puppies, and Barnaby's great hound is even happier to have (soon not to be little) tagalong friends.
The hound has seen battle, but not taken any great part in it, being naturally shy of the undead. She's a good girl, though, and only adds to the reputation and goodwill of her "owners". The two pups quickly fall in with her example.
The hound has seen battle, but not taken any great part in it, being naturally shy of the undead. She's a good girl, though, and only adds to the reputation and goodwill of her "owners". The two pups quickly fall in with her example.
Neil Gaiman: "I started imagining a world in which we replaced the phrase 'politically correct' wherever we could with 'treating other people with respect', and it made me smile."..."I know what you’re thinking now. You’re thinking 'Oh my god, that’s treating other people with respect gone mad!'"
Fail States RPG
Mythistorical Bundle
माया | Gratitude
Fail States RPG
Mythistorical Bundle
माया | Gratitude