Post by trrrommm on Jan 11, 2016 1:06:04 GMT -5
A DAY AT THE KHAZAN ARENA
A Game Master’s Adventure for Deluxe Tunnels and Trolls© by Flying Buffalo and Ken St. Andre, Liz Danforth, James “Bear” Peter. The Fellowship of the Troll©
This Adventure was created by the following members of Trollhalla
Brad Bell as Brevail Mark Maynard as Utento the Vicious
Mark Mena as Red Mark Thornton as Lil
Douglas Mitten as the Game Master
We would like to dedicate this Adventure to all members of Trollhalla
A DAY AT THE KHAZAN ARENA
A message is delivered to the Stagger Inn. It is addressed to Brevail and the Barmaid delivers it to your room.
Brevail looks at the wax seal, LBC. Lord Basheer Cornrow. He breaks the seal and reads:
Sir,
I have been informed that the Kanhauge Brothers will be fighting each other in the arena tomorrow. I have taken the liberty of reserving a box in your name for the entire day. All food and drink is paid for and there will be a Wager Runner assigned to your box. The Box accommodates up to ten people. I thought you might enjoy seeing this match and the others that will follow.
If you are unable to accept my invitation please notify me as soon as possible so that I can avoid the cancellation fee.
With Sincere Thanks,
Lord Cornrow
RSVP is requested.
Brevail sends a reply accepting the invitation and the party decides to look for Baricgenel and Cyrus Sledge. When they go down for breakfast that morning Baricgenel and Cyrus are sitting at one of the large tables and wave energetically for the party to join them.
Conie comes to their table and asks, “What will you be having for breakfast this morning?
"I will have the 100% whole grain, organic, non-GMO oats handpicked and
prepared by Hobbs sworn to the service of the Goddess of purity and
charity, covered with sun-ripened sliced fruit collected by nymphs from
the limbs of old growth forests, and glazed with honey cultivated by
1000 year old bee hives maintained by an order of monks on the westward
side of the mountains facing the endless expanses of the trackless sea
and contained within it the very essence of the elements themselves."
He pauses for a second, and then tells Conie, "Or the eggs and bacon
like yesterday, whichever is available."
Conie laughs and says, “We got honey mead if ya likes.”
He looks at Cyrus and Baricgenel and explains the invitation to the
upcoming bout at the Arena to see if they are interested in joining the group.
Cyrus answers, “In a box seat with free food, with a star of the arena, would not miss that for anything.
Baricgenel answers, “I gratefully accept your most generous offer. I am honored to be included with such honorable company. I was planning on attending and your invitation is most appreciated. I most humbly accept your kind invitation.
Conie asks Utento, “What is wrong, you appear to be injured, if everything all right?”
Utento says, "Got a dagger thrown into my back as we were trying to get the leprechauns netted."
Conie says, "That female elf, Crue, is a healer, she could fix you back good as a new born babe. Crue, this man been stabbed in the back, can ya heal him?"
Crue stands up and says, "Since he is with an elf, I will heal him." She walks over and places her staff on Utento's back, Utento feels a warmth spread through his wound and then there is no pain. She says, "Well human, was that worth 5 gold coins?
Lil asks, “If I go and get the bacon that would be as good as the nymph part?”
Red says, “Errr….just bacon for me please.”
Utento says, “Meats, eggs, ale, and rolls.”
Conie says, “I will bring that out shortly.”
Crue asks, “Human, my five gold if you please.”
Conie and Conny come out carrying large trays.
Conie sets her tray on a corner of the table and places a plate before Brevail with two eggs, and three slices of bacon, then one before Lil with three slices of bacon and then a third before Red with three slices of bacon.
She then begins putting plates down for Utento, one has a whole chicken and a whole duck, a second plate has a large porterhouse steak, twelve slices of bacon, and three pork chops, a third plate has six eggs and six rolls. She then places two pints of ale on the table. She says, “Meats, eggs, ale, and rolls, best not leave any of it uneaten.” She picks up the two trays, turns sharply away and leaves the table.
Utento says, "What a small order!" and digs in...
Brevail enjoys breakfast, and assumes Utento is practicing for an eating contest. Or...the Leprechaun waitresses think he is too skinny.
Cyrus says, “What did you do to anger her so? Or maybe she believes the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach. I think she has a plans for you Utento, star of the Arena and all. Best step lightly around her.
Lord Basheer Cornrow comes racing into the inn. Looks around the room, spots Brevail and shouts, “Brevail, the Leprechauns have stolen my daughter, they demand the release of the Kanhauge Brothers. They have threaten that she will suffer every wound that is inflicted on the brothers. Brevail will you help?”
Brevail says, "Of course we will assist you Lord Basheer Cornrow."
Baricgenel interjects, "If you can show us where this occurred I might be able to track them."
Lord Cornrow says, "We were shopping in the Grand Market Place. Two Leprechauns appeared out of thin air, jumped into the air and pulled a large grain sack over my daughter, picked her up and ran with her towards the docks. I started following them when I was accosted by a leprechaun who told me I would only get my daughter back if the Kanhauge Brothers were released unharmed. If they are forced to fight in the arena she would suffer stroke for stroke. Then the Leprechaun disappeared and I saw the two carrying my daughter turn down Coast Street towards the Drunkard's Stumble. I came here in hopes of finding you."
Cyrus says, “Baricgenel, these Leprechauns seem to be no end of trouble. No wonder they are not allowed to enter Khosht.”
Baricgenel replies, “Khazan is an open city and as such many kindred live here in harmony. It is not that Leprechauns are trouble, it is individuals who cause problems. In this case, evil resides in some individual Leprechauns, how many we do not yet know, but the two brothers seem to have allies in this town who are just as evil as they are. We must root out the individuals and contain the evil not condemn the kindred for the actions of individual members. Remember Lurter was very evil and many humans suffered because of him. But it was the Elves who hunted him down and returned him to Khosht to stand trial.”
Utento says, "Wanna do a rescue?"
Crue interjects, “Utento, you are not going anywhere until I am paid my 5 gold coins!”
Utento says, “Sorry mam, here are your 5 gold coins. And my thanks for healing me.”+
Cyrus says, "They would have passed by this inn to get to the Drunkard's Stumble. Baric you might find their trail just outside the doorway."
Brevail is quite curious how Baric is going to track the leprechauns. And how long before the Kanhauge brothers fight in the arena?
Lord Cornrow says, “We only have until tomorrow at five when the Arena opens. I will go and see if the judges will delay the fight until later in day instead of the opening battle.
Brevail asks, "Do you still have your leprechaun nets? If so, let's go."
Red replies, “My net is ready. Let's go!"
Baric says, “Brevail give me a chance to examine the road and see what I can find out before we stir up a lot of dust on the road.”
Baric returns after twenty minutes and says, “I followed the trail of two Leprechauns carrying a heavy load to the back of the Dirty Spoon. It stopped at a large flat rock. It was like they stepped on the rock and vanished.
Baric leads the party to the back of the dirty Spoon and stops at a flat rock. Baric says, "That's is the rock.. They could not wink wing with their captive. Where did they go?"
Brevail says, “This sounds like the perfect segue for casting "Oh There It Is" and then a purple
glow shows a hidden round rock next to the flat rock. Brevail steps on the round rock. The flat rock moves and there is a sloping tunnel going under and towards the Dirty Spoon. At the bottom of the slope you can see a wood plank floor. There are loud voices below and you hear, “No Beni you cannot undress her, our orders are not to harm or search her.” A second voice says, “She’s such a pretty lass, I’ve never seen such a pretty lass naked, I won’t touch her, came on Mr. O’Malley, just a few minutes with her naked won’t hurt her.” “Beni, go into the other room, I will guard the lass. You can’t be trusted around her. And tell Tommy to go upstairs and get me an ale. Now get going before I stick you.”
Brevail whispers, "Okay, we back up and let Beni get outside. Then once
he closes the door, Red, you net him. Baric and Lil, help Red subdue
him before Beni makes too much of a fuss. Utento, Cyrus, and I will go
in and deal with the other Leprechaun. Utento, have your net ready for
the other one."
He pauses, "Unless Beni leaves through a different door, in which case
we just wait until we hear it close, and then all of us burst in on this
'Mr. O'Malley' and Red and Utento can both net him. Unless someone has
a better idea?"
You then hear heavy footsteps on a stair. You hear a voice say, “Tommy get me a beer, Tommy shine my boots. Yes, Mr. O’Malley, I will get you a beer and when no one’s looking I’ll have a drink and replace it with me piss.” Then you hear the squeak of rusty hinges, many voices and the clinking of steins, squeaky hinges and a door shuts.
Utento readies his net.
Utento and Red lead the charge down the tunnel, Utento throws his net. He traps Mr. O’Malley in his net.
O'Malley screams, "Beni, Tommy, Help! I am caught in the net."
Beni yells, "Good for you, I am out of here." You hear someone running up a stair, creaking hinges and a door slams.
Red runs to the stairs to follow Beni. Brevail sees a young girl tied to a 4 by 4 post. The poor girl is tied to a four by four post. She is sobbing and shaking; her eyes dilated in fear. She is about 16 years old, dark hair, eyes and very pale skin. At her feet is a fine cloth cloak with a full hood. She says, "Did my father send you?" Brevail nods his head and then begins to untie her
Brevail shouts, “Red the girl is here, come back. We can deal with Beni and Tommy later.
Red returns to the party Brevail picks up the cloak and helps her put it on. She pulls the hood close around her face and they leave the basement of the Dirty Spoon
Mr. O'Malley says, "What are you going to do with me. I am a licensed slaver. I have broken no laws; but you have! The Kanhauges promised me a thousand gold for the girl and their freedom. It was a legal contract under the Law of Khazan. Basheer knows that. You do not have any legal standing in this. But for five hundred gold, I will not press charges against you and you must turn me loose."
"So, Mr. O'Malley, you entered into a contract with the Kanhauge brothers to abduct the daughter of Lord Basheer and use her as leverage to force their release from the Arena? She was not to be harmed or mistreated in any way, nor sold into slavery, just used as a bargaining
chip. Am I correct in understanding that is the extent of your involvement in this situation?"
Mr. O’Malley hesitates and then says, “I was to sell her to the Kanhauge brothers as a legal slave. How I acquire my merchandise is not defined by law. I promised the brothers she would be unhurt, unspoiled, and well cared for while in my possession. I was to inform Lord Cornrow that if the Kanhauge brothers fought in the Arena his daughter would suffer the same wounds and fate of the brothers. If I don’t fulfil the contract then they do not owe me anything. There could be no down payment as they were incarcerated at the arena. So, will you free me and give me 500 gold coins?”
Brevail considers this and tells O'Malley, "I see your points and need to refer to my colleagues."
"Cyrus and Baric, would you mind watching our Leprechaun friend here for a couple minutes?"
Brevail calls Lil, Red, and Utento together out of earshot of O'Malley and tells them, "He is correct, according to Khazan Law, he has done nothing wrong and we are technically engaged in unlawful detention of a slaver - Unless one of you happens to be a licensed slaver. So we have a few choices: (1) pay him and let him go (2) take him out of Khazan with us and apply the local laws of some new place to him (3) I can find plenty of counterarguments in the Khazan Legal System to make him back down (4) one of us goes and buys a slavers license and see if anyone wants a chained leprechaun. Give him a taste of his own medicine."
He pauses, "So what do you want to do?"
Red says, "How much for a license?"
Utento says, “I like option 2 and 4, but if we take him out of Khazen and try him under another law system. We still have broken more laws? Would that clear us with a slavers license?”
Baric interjects, "I could not help but overhear, pardon my interruption but getting a slaver's license after the fact would not protect you from prosecution for an act committed prior to obtaining a license. I have taken the liberty to draw up a contract for both parties to sign that should suffice to resolve this dilemma." He hands you the following document.
In the light of current actions by Mr. O'Malley on behalf of the Kanhauge Brothers, including but not limited to the kidnapping of a female minor, Miss Cornrow, daughter of Lord Basheer Cornrow, the following actions taken by Brevail, Red, Utento, Lil, Baric, and Cyrus, consisting of tracking, locating, capturing Mr. O’Malley, and the release of the above referenced female minor back into the legal parent/child custody, this matter is considered resolved by the following, Mr. O'Malley will not bring charges against any of the parties involved in the rescue of said female minor. Mr. O'Malley will be released to continue his lawful business of acquiring and selling slaves in accordance with the Law of Khazan with one restriction, he will make no effort to recover the freed minor daughter of Lord Basheer Cornrow. In recognition of the loss suffered by Mr. O'Malley the rescue party will allow Baricgenel, an Elf of Khosht, to compensate Mr. O'Malley for his loss of legal income the sum of 500 gold coin of The City of Khazan, a recognized legal tender.
The signatures below confirm each and every part of this agreement. The parties to this agreement have reached this agreement of the party’s free will and without duress of any kind. Signed in Khazan.
After everyone has read the document, Baricgenel asks, “Does the document require any changes?
Brevail smiles, "Nope, I think this is rather perfect. Now we just need O'Malley to sign it."
Once O'Malley signs it, Brevail, Red, Utento, Lil, Baric, and Cyrus all sign the document, Baric touches the document and then a blank sheet of parchment and the writing and all the signatures are copied to the parchment. He then repeats these actions with a second blank parchment with the same results. He hands one copy to Mr. O’Malley and the original document and the second copy to Brevail. Cyrus releases Mr. O’Malley and Baric gives O’Malley 500 gold coins.as he says, “Go in peace and trouble us no more.” Mr. O’Malley walks away.
Brevail states, “I would like to submit this copy as evidence to the Magistrate that O'Malley was using his slaver license as a pretext to assist enslaved gladiators in escaping from the Khazan Arena, and therefore have O'Malley incarcerated and subjected to time in the Arena as punishment.
Baric says, “I worded it with that in mind. Our only agreement was to release him and pay him 500 gold. Nothing prohibits us from seeking justice for the girl and her family, however, may I suggest we allow Lord Cornrow the opportunity to use the document to obtain justice?
Cyrus says, “The sun and my stomach both agree that it is time for lunch, Stagger Inn anyone?”
A quick walk to the Stagger Inn and they find the inn having a lunch rush. Conie quickly clears a table for six and waves them over. The six Dwarves move to the bar.
Conie says, “Told um when they sat here if I needed the table they would half to move. Dwarves only drinking and they can do that at the bar; I was hoping to see you for lunch, our special today is deep fried whole chicken with a large ale only 1 gold. We also have butternut squash soup in steamed cheese and butter milk for only 3 coppers. Then there’s the regular fare, buffalo meat loaf, tomato rice, baked green beans with bacon bits for 3 silver; Or steamed fresh caught giant perch, fried potato sticks, roasted baby cabbages for 2 silver 3 copper. Our lighter fare today is a fresh garden lunch salad with artichoke hearts, butter lettuce, sweet peppers, carrots, celery, garbanzo beans, mushrooms and a light vinaigrette and olive oil dressing for 1 silver, you can add brazed chicken breasts for 1 silver or crawdads for 2 silver. And that comes with a cup of butternut squash soup.
Utento says, “Four whole fried chickens and large ale.”
Red says, “Just an ale for me please.”
Lil asks, “Either a Baked Alaska or a Bombed Khazan, if you if have them.
Conie says, “I doubt it but I will check with the cook.
Brevail says, “Tofurkey, please and a sweet cold tea.
Baric says, “I would like the soup and salad without the meat and a cold sweet tea, please.”
Cyrus says, “Buffalo meat loaf with a large ale, please.”
Conie leaves the table, shaking her head and mumbling about Elves and foreigners.
Conie returns with the drinks and a hob in a white apron, large white hat, and a meat cleaver in his hand. He says, “No Baked Alaska, No Bombed Khazan, No Torkey! Conie told ya what we has for lunch, look around ya, see all these people, they orders fromz the menu, now I know you are guests here at the inn, you pays your bill on time and haven’t started any fights, but Conie is a bizey lass and doesn’t have time to be running into my kitchen to find out if I got time to make some foreign food I never heard of. Now from the menu now, what do you want to eat?”
Brevail says, "Good sir, I will have the garden lunch salad, and I will buy the Dwarves who so graciously moved each a drink."
Conie writes down your order.
Lil settles for cheese and turkey sandwiches and ale and asks if anyone wants to try arm wrestling?
The cook says, “No turkey, chicken ok?
“Little lady wants to arm wrestle, Sir Walow would accept your challenge for a proper reward, when I win you will spend the night in my bed and provide me with great pleasure.”
Lil looks at the stranger and sees that he is an Uruk, richly dressed, holds a very ornate and jeweled cane, wears many rings, including one large signet ring with a Death Head Crest. His smile is more of a sneer than anything of a friendly nature.
Brevail notices the Death Head Crest and recognizes it as the Family Crest of Queen Lerotra’hh.
After checking the reaction of those about her in case they have any warnings about this Uruk, Lil smiles saucily and says, “I will accept your challenge, providing you can make an acceptable offer as to what I will gain if I surprises you and I win. What is your name?”
He replies with a sweeping bow, "My name is Sir Walow, Knight of the Queen, Fifth in line for the Throne and Captain of the North Gate Guards. If you should by some twist of fate win (he laughs at the thought), I will become your Knight Protector, Present you at Court before my Aunt the Queen and have conferred upon you the title of Duchess of Khazan."
Brevail says, “Good Luck, Lil, I am not a betting Elf. “ Brevail remembers Sir Walow, he was banned from Court for an indiscretion with one of the Queen’s Ladies in Waiting. Lerotra’hh beheaded her in front of the entire court and then hung her body from the North Gate and her head is still on a pike by the throne. He could no more follow through on his part of the bet than Utento could. He is no longer a Knight of the Queen, is not in line for the Throne, no one is as Lerotra’hh seems to possess eternal youth, and he was dismissed as Captain of the North Gate Guards.
Lil and Sir Walow go to the tables set up for arm wrestling, they have three contests ahead of them. Finally it is their turn.
Lil and Sir Walow go to the table, sit, clasp hands, (Lil’s hand disappears in Sir Walow’s large maw. She grimaces in pain and begins pushing Sir Walow’s arm to the table. Sir Walow grunts and stops the decent but is unable to regain the loss and is fighting an uphill battle. Their arms are shaking rapidly with the strain. Sweat breaks out on Sir Walow’s forehead. His arm moves closer to the table. He grips his leg with his left hand. He is slowly losing the match. His face turns black with the effort to regain control. There is a loud crack, a scream of pain, and his hand smashes into the table. Blood squirts from his wrist, a bone is sticking out of his wrist, he jumps to his feet, lifts one foot off the floor and falls flat on his face. The few patrons in the bar begin chanting Lil, Lil, Lil.
Cyrus rushes and kneels at Sir Walow’s side. Rolls him over and examines the wrist. He shouts above the noise and says, “This is bad, Crue this Uruk needs your skills. Will you help?”
Crue shouts back, “Let the Uruk bleed out. The creep does not deserve my skills. The city will be a better place without him.” She lifts her stein and says, “Long live the Queen, Long live Lerotra’hh” She downs her ale and stands, walks to the door and leaves the Inn.
Cyrus attempts to reset the bone and stop the squirting blood. The pool of black blood grows larger and the Uruk becomes even paler. His breathing becomes labored and shallow.
Brevail sets down his glass of distilled water and stands up. "Crue
needs to be reminded of the story of the Knight Hospitalet who failed
initiation because he said all Uruks were evil, and refused to save a
drowning child."
He squats down next to Sir Walow and zaps him with a "Poor Baby" to keep
him from bleeding out and stabilize him to consciousness, but still in a
lot of pain. He looks Sir Walow in the eyes and says, "Now, good sir,
you entered into a bet with my colleague here, a bet which you had no
chance of ever fulfilling if you lost. You lost. By my understanding of
the Law of Khazan, you now become her bondsman until such time as you
have repaid the value of your wager. Do you disagree?"
“Yes, I do disagree, I am of Royal Bloodlines, I cannot be forced to be a bondsman to one of lessor blood. I would rather die than become a bondsman to a human female. But what value can you place on such an esoteric reward? What would the lady like in compensation?”
Lil comes close and leans over the Uruk.
"You put up a good show. If you cannot deliver on your promise then I want two things of you: a house, freehold, and an enchanted weapon. There - I think I am letting you off lightly!"
Sir Walow pulls a house key from his pocket and a deed from his coat. On the back of the deed he writes, “Sold to Ovthaphalli, a human female, for consideration given. Rgert Walow. He then picks up his cane and hands it to Lil. Hold the handle and say, “Take that you fiend.”
Baric touches the cane and says, “This is a magical item that will cast a Sixth Level TTYF.”
When Lil examines the cane more closely, she discovers that it is a sword cane.
The party goes to the house to inspect it. Lil shows the deed to the Housekeeper. The House keeper summons all staff and introduces them to Lil and the Party.
Elena says, “I am the Housekeeper, I handle the accounts, supervise the staff and ensure the Household is maintained in a proper and efficient manner. I am married to Alfred, the Valet.
This is Boswell, our butler, and his wife, Glenda our chef. Helena is the Kitchen maid, Mariam is the first floor maid, and Ester is the second floor maid.
I will be happy to show you the accounts and we understand that you may want to hire your own staff. You should know that Helena is Boswell and Glenda’s daughter. Mariam and Ester are Alfred and my daughters. The grounds keeper Gregory and his sons care for the grounds. Our three families have served this house for six generations. Helena is being trained to become a chef and I am training my daughter Mariam to replace me, and Ester has completed the training as a Ladies Maid. We all would like to remain in our posts and have our children follow in our footsteps as honored members of the household staff. If you would allow us to serve you and your … associates dinner tonight at 4 p.m. we would be honored and you can judge our skills. The linens in all the rooms are fresh this morning, the fire places in all the rooms are laid with dry wood and sufficient wood for the night. We are prepared to accommodate all your needs Lil and would be grateful for the opportunity to serve you.”
Lil thinks to herself, “I need to engage in more arm wrestling matches...”
Utento says, "Very nice place! I'm not use to this type of luxury in my life."
Lil is a little nonplussed to find herself really in charge of such staff. She thanks them all and says that they can call her either 'Mistress Lil' or 'Ma'am. She says she looks forward to dinner as they suggest and then she would like a carriage to take her and her friends to the Arena.
Utento says, "What sorta wine you got?"
Elena looks at Utento and then says, “Mistress Lil, we do not have any wines in the house, the previous owner only drank Ale. If you would like I can get a selection of wines at the Grand Market if you can provide me with a list of the wines you prefer. I believe there is a surplus in this month’s food budget that will cover a small selection.”
Lil tells Elena to go to a reputable merchant and obtain a good selection as she is not used to wine and needs to find out her preferences. She tells Elena to inform the merchant that if his wines impress, he can expect regular orders. Lil also asks Elena if the staff are well fed or if there are any aspects of their employment that cause them unhappiness.
Elena says that the former master was prone to strike the staff and pestered the female staff as men of his class are wont to do. I hope that you will not allow such actions from your guests. Although, we suffered it in silence, you asked. Will your guest be staying long? I only ask so that I can make sure the food and sundries are adequate while they are here. I will need to purchase more food to provide for five more people in the house. The former master had only female guests and they normally only stayed until the master had fallen asleep. They were not the sort of women who would stay for breakfast and the master could be quite mean to them. Many left injured if they failed to please him. His father, before his death, would not allow such women in the house. I believe the staff can look forward to better days, as long as your guests behave. Do you have a preference on where they will sleep?
Lil reassures Elena that her guests will not misbehave - at least, not with regard to staff welfare. She wants the master bedroom completely fumigated and will have a good room assigned to each of the others.
At 3:55 p.m. Boswell announces, “Dinner will be served in the main dining room in five minutes, please take your seat as soon as is convenient.
The table is set with fine silver plates, there is a soup spoon above each plate, three forks on the left of each plate and two knives on the right of each plate with three crystal glasses to the right of each plate, a bread plate and butter knife to the left of each plate. There are linen napkins in silver napkin rings on each plate and hand written name cards. At the head of the table is a name card with Ovthaphalli, on her right is Brevail, on her left is Baric, next to Brevail is Utento and then Red, Cyrus is seated next to Baric. At 3:58 Boswell enters the dining room and says, “Tonight we will be serving a lobster bisque, then butter lettuce, orange wedges, walnut salad, followed by leg of lamb, with wild rice and fresh green beans. We have paired the lobster bisque with a Grand Marquis Rose’, the Salad with a dry Riesling, and with the main course a cabernet sauvignon. Dessert tonight is Chocolate Mousse paired with a 15 year old Tawny Port.” He claps his hands and Helena and Mariam enter with a large soup tureen and bowl and begin serving the bisque while Alfred begins pouring the wine. The enticing aroma of the bisque fills the dining room and heightens everyone’s appetite. The aroma only gave a hint to exquisite flavor of the bisque. The rest of the meal is an ever increasingly flavorful dining experience cumulating in the dessert and port. Once finished with the meal Alfred returns and says, “Your carriage to the Arena has arrived, you may leave at you leisure.”
The large carriage is drawn by six jungle trolls, it will comfortably seat ten. A smooth and gentle ride and you arrive at the arena at the entrance for patrons holding boxed seats. You feel out of place with the rich nobles and merchants in their fine clothes occupying the boxes around your box. You are given a list of the fights scheduled for the night.
The wage runner asks, “Will you be placing any bets tonight?”
Lil bets 500 on the Brothers for each of the first three fights (unless they die before the end!); then she bets 1,000 on the champion. She asks those about her if they can recommend a tailor for her friends and herself. Lil wins 4,500 but loses 500 on the third. She wins 4000 on the fourth fight.
Red bets 1000 on the Kanhauges and 2000 on the champion. Red wins 6,000 loses 1000 but wins 8000 on the fourth fight
Utento says, "Feels weird being on the other side." and bets 500 on each Kanhauge fights (unless they die before the end...) and 500 on the champion. Utento wins 4,500 but loses 500 on the third and wins 2000 on the fourth
The Kanhauges win their first two fights, but the Naga eats them both. The Champion subdues his opponent.
Utento says, "I'm just glad to be free and not just working for the cheers of the crowd"
Brevail congratulates his comrades for their excellent wins on betting. He offers a prayer for the souls of the Kanhauges after they are eaten, since those two are somewhat responsible for the entire chain of events which has led to this windfall of prosperity for everyone. The crow cheers wildly for a great night of gore and slaughter. Your carriage awaits and returns you unharmed to the house. Boswell opens the door and says, “Welcome home Mistress Lil and guests. Your room has been cleaned in accordance with your instructions. Will you require anything else this evening? At what time would you like your breakfast?
Lil expresses her thanks and asks if anyone wants a nightcap or a sandwich?
Utento says, "What is a good drink before bed?"
Boswell says, “A cup of hot chocolate.
Red says, “A pint of sherry should do the trick.”
Boswell says, “I will bring you a pint of sherry, Sir.”
Utento says, "Ok a pint it is!"
Boswell says, “Mister Utento, is that a pint of cherry, a pint of hot chocolate or a pint of both?
Utento says, “A pint of sherry should do the trick.”
Boswell says, “I will bring you a pint of sherry, Sir.”
When Lil retires for the night she learns that Ester has moved into the Staff Bed Room next to her room and Alfred and Elena have moved to the third floor. Ester explains, “As Alfred was the former Master’s Valet his lived next to the Master’s room. But now that you are Mistress of the House, I, as your Lady’s Maid, now occupy that room. I have laid out your night clothing, and when you are ready I will brush your hair. If you require anything during the night just ring the bell on your nightstand and I will come to attend you. I will wake you an hour before breakfast with hot tea and buttered toast, or if you prefer something else I will arrange with the kitchen to provide it. May I assist you in undressing?
Suppressing a giggle, Lil permits the assistance and asks that a good tailor be summoned to the house on the morrow. She tells Esther that because she had a good night at the Arena she wishes to hire musicians and dancers to perform at dinner tomorrow night and hopes the staff will enjoy the night's entertainment.
The next morning after breakfast Boswell announces, “Will anyone attend the Arena tonight at 5 p.m.? A wager runner is here with a Flyer with tonight’s contests. Does anyone wish to place any bets? Also I have prepared the Library as requested by Brevail and Baric, you may lock yourselves in the Library so that Baric can teach Brevail new spells. Once they enter please do not disturb them.”
Tonight’s Contests
The Arena Uruk Champion Frlul vs Gronpo the Giant
Odds 8:1 -- The Champion Wins
Odds 1:8 – Gronpo the Giant wins.
The Arena Gremlin Champion Gorn vs a Dwarf who claims to be Captain Tul Dar of the Blue Sapphire Dwarves. He has agreed to a fight to the DEATH to win his freedom.
Odds 2:1 -- The Champion Wins
Odds 1:2 – The Dwarf wins.
Brevail says, “I am not a betting elf, but I will put 500 gold on Captain Tul Dar, and if the dwarf loses I want the body sent to the Grimhold so the Dwarves can ensure a proper interment according to Dwarf customs. I will cover all costs.”
Red says, “I will bet 1000 GP on the Uruk. And 1000 GP on Captain Tul Dar.”
Utento says, “Just a 1,000 GP on Captain Tul Dar.”
Lil says, “I bet 500 on the dwarf and 500 on the Uruk.
The wage runner notes their bets and returns to the Arena.
On day two of four as Brevail begins his meditation he hears a sweet voice say, "Brevail, I am called Wild Rose."
Brevail sees a fairy like person who stands over two feet tall. She has the skin tone, eye color, and hair color of an Elf.
Brevail says, "I am honored to meet you, Wild Rose. What brings one of the fey kind to this garden?"
Brevail listens carefully, not only to what she has to say, but if there are other fairies around.
Wild Rose says, "I am an Elf-Fairy. My mother is an Elf Wizard. She resides in the Elven Reserve here in Khazan. No one knows who my father is, other than he was a Fairy of course. My mother will not speak about him and claims to have never met him. It is my personal opinion that it was the result of fairy magic and my mother was a victim. Anyway, I am an outcast. So I live in this garden and care for the plants and animals that live in the garden. No one in the house
knows of my existence here and I prefer to keep it that way. And if you swear on the Sacred Elven Tree of Hilium to keep my secret, I will give you a reward.
Brevail considers this and replies, "I am honored that you have chosen to share your secret with me, and I shall keep it for the rest of my days and swear this on the Sacred Tree of Hilium. I am something of an outcast myself, and find the ideals I live by do not mesh well with those in power here in Khazan. I hope you come to think of me as your friend, and I shall do my utmost to keep your confidence at all times.”
Wild Rose continues, “The reward is a Deluxe Wand Extra-Ordinaire, it has the spirit of a
mighty elven mage who knew all known spells as well as a few no other wizard knows. This wizard was held captive here by the pig Walow. The wizard showed me where he hid it and told me the secrete words. Then he hid his spirit in the Wand Extra-Ordinaire and it became a Deluxe
Wand Extra-Ordinaire. The Spirit of the Wizard in the Deluxe Wand Extra-Ordinaire only allow the wand to be used to protect the weak from harm and will warn the wielder of the approach of evil beings, of physical or spirit forms. I know many secretes of the house and if you prove true hearted I will teach them to you."
Brevail speaks, “If the Wand you speak of finds me worthy, I shall use it with the utmost care and honor, respecting the wishes of its former master. I know not if I am worthy and true hearted, but I strive to live by a code of honor and hope that is sufficient for you and the wand. Is there anything I can do to make your life in the garden easier?"
Wild Rose responds, "Only being accepted by one of the Elves is sufficient to make my life in the garden easier. For the last two days I have observed you and your comrades. They and you are a great improvement on the prior occupant. And the fact that you have come to meditate in the location of the wand tells me that you have been chosen to wield it in honor and for the greater good. Lift the stone upon which you now sit, there you will find the reward you have earned. I believe we will be friends, allies and heal this land. Your meditation in the garden has already brought plants to bloom that have not bloomed in fifty years."
Below the stone you find a Mithril Wand with a Star Diamond on its end. The handle is wrapped in soft leather and has a leather wrist band. As you pick up the wand you realize a knowledge of the following spells in addition to all the spells known to Elf, Man, Dwarf and Hobs. You "see" in your mind an old elf, his thoughts are known to you and you "hear" in your mind, "Brother, you have been chosen, your values are honorable and your intentions are pure. Your actions are
> true to your values. I will assist you in fulfilling your destiny. Do not challenge Queen Lerotra'hh, work behind the screen to aid her subjects in finding a better life under her rule. You have already greatly improved the lives of the humans in this city. Aid your allies, but do not forsake your values. Call on me at need."
Brevail says to Wild Rose, "This is a great gift, I fear it is a greater trust than I am worthy of
holding, but I shall strive to honor the requests of the elven wizard within and my fairy friend." Brevail examines the wand closely and then tucks it into the sleeves of his shirt while tying the leather wrist band down. "Wild Rose, you will always be accepted by me, but I shall
see about bringing you some level of acceptance among our kin."
Wild Rose says, “I must attend to the garden, but I will not leave here now. Peace my Friend, until we meet again.”
Brevail sits on the rock and begins meditating and after a while he hears Boswell announce dinner is being served. He goes into the house and enters the dining room. As Baric, Cyrus, Red, Utento and Brevail takes their places a group of musicians enter the dining room and begin playing softly. A hansom Elf plays a flute, a beautiful Human female is playing a Lyre, a Human male plays a coronet, and a cute Hob female plays a small drum. Lil follows the musicians and dances to her seat.
Around 7:00 p.m. the wage runner returns to the house.
Brevail wins 1000 gold pieces.
Red wins 2000 gold pieces on the Dwarf, loses 1000 gold pieces on the Uruk
Utento wins 2000 gold pieces
Lil wins 1000 on the dwarf and loses 500 on the Uruk
Utento gives Lil 1,800gp and says, "This is to cover for me at your home for 12 months."
Lil thanks Utento and enquires if he would like to be fitted out for some society clothes.
Utento looks at what he is wearing and says, "I would really like that!” He smiles and says to Lil, "Thank you!"
Brevail is thrilled to know that Captain Tul Dar survived. He decided to go out and search for is comrade. When he gets to the street he sees Tul Dar approaching the He is uninjured and greets Brevail, "Hail, Brevail, well met. I bet on myself and slew the Uruk without him being close enough to hurt me. I am 5,000 gold coin richer. Is this your home?"
Brevail says, "It is the house of a friend of mine. Let us enter and I will introduce you to the owner and my comrades."
Brevail takes Captain Tul Dar into Lil's house and introduces him to
everyone.
Brevail relates the battle against the Rock Demons
We are facing 19 Rock Fiends, each has cast a TTYF at the goblins, trolls and dwarves, only three goblins were hit by the spells for minor damage (less than 20 points of damage) and 18 of the Rock Fiends are now setting tridents and forming an arc in front of the 19th Rock Fiend, who is barking orders, "Prepare to repel their charge, Shield wall, set tridents! Hold the line. Steady now!
Goblins, Trolls, and Dwarves Attack the Rock Fiends. The Rock Trolls throw boulders into the shield wall, killing three Rock Fiends; one is their leader. The Goblins clash their short swords against their shields and yell insults at the Rock Fiends concerning the honor of their families and status of their birth. The Dwarves fire cross bows resulting in two dead Rock Fiends and two wounded with one running away.
The Rock Fiends reform their shield wall not realizing that their leader is beneath a large boulder breathing his last breath. Receiving no orders they remain ready for a charge that never came. For the Rock Trolls throw three more boulders smashing the three Rock Fiends in the center of the shield wall. The Dwarves fire their cross bows killing two more and wounding two more leaving five Rock Fiends who now see their leader’s feet sticking out from under the large boulder. They jump up and run down a road leading to the wall. And from there they reach the front gate.
While the goblins are celebrating the victory against the Rock Fiends we hear from behind us a -voice speaking Dwarven, "Hail and Well Met Friends of the Blue Sapphire Dwarves, We met five Rock Fiends running out the gate, we killed them before they could reach the bridge. I am Captain Tul Dar of the Blue Sapphire Dwarves. I have come here to negotiate a treaty with the Goblins of this City on behalf of King Buckles. I am at your service."
As we turn to face them we see a dwarf in red robes, a Mithril staff in his right hand. He is wearing Mithril Dwarven Ring Mail with no helm. His white hair and beard identifies him as one of the Old Ones and covering his right ear is a braid of his white hair reaching to his belt. In his left hand is a Mithril Dwarven Spike Shield.
Behind him are nine Dwarven Warriors, all in Dwarven Ring Mail and carrying Broad Axes and Dwarven Spiked Shields. The Dwarf leading the column of warriors is an old, heavy set dwarf with a patch over his left eye. The other eight warriors have tridents strapped to their backs. When Captain Tul Dar stops moving, the old dwarf with the eye patch shouts, "Platoon Halt!" With a stomp of each foot and a click of their heels and a simultaneous shout, "Yes, Sargent" the platoon comes to a smart stop.”
Captain Tul Dar says, “Be ye reminded, had not the Dwarves and Brevail been such honorable and respectful warriors, my task of negotiating a peace with the goblins would have been much harder to accomplish. King Buckles is a just and honest ruler. His vision of a peaceful Dwarf World will become a reality one day.”
Four Leprechauns appear in the dining room. Flames shoot from their staves and the dining table is aflame. The leprechauns laugh loudly, and disappear yelling, “The Kanhauge Brothers will have their revenge. Long live the Kanhauge Brothers.”
Brevail looks at Captain Tul Dar, "We have a leprechaun infestation
problem it seems." He waves his hand at the table and casts "It's
Elementary" extinguishing the flames.
Captain Tul Dar speaks, “Ber Leprechauns” A glimmering sphere appears in his hand and in the sphere all can see four leprechauns running down the lane in front of the house. They then appear to be running in a mist. They turn down the Coast Road in the direction of the Dirty Spoon. As you continue to watch them you see them enter the basement door. The glimmering sphere disappears. Captain Tul Dar asks, “Do any of you know the building they entered?”
A sweet voice speaks softly in Brevail’s ear, "I know those four, they work for Walow. As did the Kanhauge Brothers, beware they are dangerous."
Brevail responds, "We do indeed good captain. Far too well it seems. That is a hang-out of thieves and cutthroats and we seem to spend considerable time there either rescuing or incarcerating the inhabitants." He looks over at the rest of the group, "Well, shall we go air our grievances with them again?"
Utento says with a frown, "Really having a dislike for leprechauns..." He looks to Brevail, "What can we say to end all this nonsense?"
Lil suggests, “I could arm-wrestles the leprechaun champion. I have never arm-wrestled with a leprechaun before.” She grits her teeth thinking of one Wink-Winging at the critical moment!
Captain Tul Dar asks, “May I attend this airing of grievances?”
Brevail nods, "Absolutely friend. Baric and Cyrus, do you want to join
us?"
Baric says, “I will join you.”
Cyrus says, “Yes, I will.”
"The first issue is to find out who is behind all this. Four
Leprechauns do not randomly risk life and limb without good cause.
While I am sure the Kanhauge brothers had friends and allies, they also
likely reported to a higher authority. Crime is an organized beast and
there is always someone at the top. At this point we have two dead
leprechauns who engaged in theft and arranged a kidnapping from prison.
We have four live leprechauns who just attacked a table in revenge."
"As much as I would like to think it was little more than petty revenge,
we have to assume the Dirty Spoon is fast becoming a trap for us."
He looks over at Lil, "And it is possible that, at the end of the day,
your recent arm-wrestling exploits left us with an angry Uruk who wants
revenge on you. This could all lead back to him, especially if these
Leprechauns worked for him. Rather than rushing to the Dirty Spoon, it
might not hurt to find out who we need to be fighting, rather than get
ourselves or others injured in a crossfire."
Boswell enters the dining room. He is carrying a small silver tray which has a white envelop sitting upon it. He says, “Mistress Lil, pardon the intrusion but a messenger just delivered this and said it was most urgent.”
The message reads, "Lil, come to the Dirty Spoon, we want to end this petty strife, you are new to Khazan and do not understand how this city works. We want a peace conference. Bring your henchmen, if you like. Or come alone, we only want to talk." Signed Walow
Upon arrival at the Dirty Spoon you see through the open door six Leprechauns and Walow sitting at a table inside the bar. You are surprised to see that Collin and Erin Kanhauge are alive and well sitting facing the door. Walow raises his hand in a gesture of peace and says, “I see you have accepted my invitation, come in, come in. We need to explain how things work here in Khazan.” The four leprechauns who visited you get up and move a table and seven chairs to the table where the Kanhauge Brothers and Walow are sitting and then retake their seats at the table.
Walow says, “You now live in my ancestral home. You are drinking my beer, sleeping in my bed, reading my books, and soon the Bosses will be granting you my family’s titles and rights to Lil. I made a bet, I lost. And I will honor that bet. You were hired to release a girl I had kidnapped, you succeeded and as a result the Kanhauge Brothers were defeated in the arena. They have accepted that and will not seek any vengeance for their loss. I also will be allowed to search the garden of my home to regain an item that was hidden there by a traitor Elf who was in my employ. If you and your henchmen will refrain from further persecution of me and my henchmen. We will have peace. Do you agree?”
Lil says, I want to know what is buried in the garden.”
Brevail asks, "You destroyed, and owe us for, a table that was needlessly vandalized when a simple message would suffice. Now what is hidden in the garden you value? How can you be sure it is in there? And how do you intend to search for it?"
Then Brevail's eyes narrow and he asks in a flat, deadly sounding, monotone, "And what happens if we decide we don't like your proposal and the answers to my questions?"
Utento glares at Walow and the six leprechauns.
Walow rises angrily, knocking over his chair. He shouts, “The Wand is mine, mine, mine. I searched for years seeking the Elf-scum that betrayed me. I found him, I tortured him, for hours, for days and he would not reveal its location. I will rip the garden to shreds, I will dig until I hit stone! I will have what is mine!”
A flash of lightening shoots from Brevail’s arm, thunder shakes the building and Walow is turned to dust. The six leprechauns are turned to glass statues, the table they were sitting at is smoking, and their shadows stand out against the bleached wall behind them. The wand turns to ash and its outline is branded on his arm.
Utento says, "That was a very productive peace talk....so who wants a drink?"
Brevail sighs. "I do. A very, very strong drink."
Cyrus says, “I do, but not here, shall we return to the house and attempt to make sense of what just happened.”
Lil says, “I want to go home and have everyone do a thorough search - who knows what has been hidden there!”
Utento starting to look a little worried and says, "Not a bad idea! Enough trouble has been done here for today."
You return to the house to find that Boswell has managed to remove all signs of the fire and says, “Years of bee wax on the table protected the finish. I have finished cleaning it and re-waxed it. Will you require anything else Mistress Lil?”
Lil replies, “Roc Egg Nog for everyone and heavy on the rum please. It has been a trying day.”
Utento smiles and says, "Roc Egg Nog! A big glass for me!"
Red says, “An ale for me.”
Boswell says, “Shall I serve it in the library Mistress Lil?”
Lil says, “The library will be perfect, thank you-perhaps you would lay out any books on leprechauns.”
Boswell says, “It will be as you wish.” He exits the main hall and heads for the kitchen.
Utento says, "Think going anymore trouble from more of those little bastards?"
Red replies “A good leprechaun is a netted leprechaun!”
As you gather in the Library Baric says, “Where is Brevail?”
Brevail says, “I am right here.”
Everyone turns toward the door way to the Library and see Brevail standing next to a beautiful two feet tall Fairy, with many Elven features. She is dressed in a full length blue gown, it sparkles like a lake in the afternoon breeze. As she walks into the Library on Brevail’s arm each of the adventurers hears the gentle lapping of waves on a sandy beach. Her black wings twinkle with stars and she is surrounded by a golden glow.
Brevail says, “May I introduce Miss Wild Rose, a Fairy-Elf who I met in the garden recently. She has lived in the garden for many years and tends it with loving care. Miss Rose, this is Lil, the owner of the estate, a true comrade and excellent warrior, this is Red, also a true comrade and excellent warrior, this is Utento also a true comrade and excellent warrior. This is Baricgenel a most excellent Elven Mage and his friend Cyrus a wild mage and both have proven their loyalty and friendship many times. They are from the ancient City of Khosht in the south. Oh and this is Captain Tul Dar, a wise and ancient Dwarf from the Fortress of the Blue Sapphire Dwarves.”
Wild Rose places her hands to her forehead, her lips, her heart, and then with a circling motion swings her arms open and says, “It is a pleasure to greet you all and put names to the faces I have seen in and around this house in the past weeks. Thank you for your hospitality.”
Utento says, "Miss Rose, it is a pleasure to meet you."
Red says, "Very nice to meet you Miss Rose."
Lil welcomes Rose and asks her if she would like a tour of the place. She tells the others she needs to stay in shape for arm wrestling and starts on designing a poster, intending to host a tourney.
Wild Rose replies, “I have lived in the garden for over fifty years and I know more about this house than any of the previous inhabitants, behind that narrow book case is a secret room. The door is opened by pushing that knot in the edge of the fourth shelf.” She flies over to the narrow bookcase and pushes the knot and the book case rotates on the left side into the room behind it.
The room contains four large shipping trunks. Each is locked.
Wild Rose flies to a small vase, flies into it and flies out holding a silver key. She hands it to Lil, “This belongs to you now.”
Lil opens the first trunk and finds:
Urukish Scimitars 5d6 +15 STR Req. 16 DEX Req. 16 52” long Cost 56,000 gold each WU 125
There are slots for twelve but only eleven Scimitars are in the trunk. There is a document dated year 4,700 of the Wizard Wars in the trunk that states:
These Scimitars are made of moon silver, by the 1,000 fold method. Forged in Dragon Fire by Gwendel the Urukish Master Swordsmith. They are perfectly balanced. They are magically enhanced by Loopo the Mad Mage to do double damage to humans.
The second trunk contains
Twelve Complete Sets of Urukish Ring Mail – Armor Protection 120; STR Req. 10 Cost: 2,500 gold each WU 25.
There is a document dated year 4,700 of the Wizard Wars in the trunk that states:
These twelve suits of Ring Mail are made by Gwendel the Urukish Master Swordsmith. They are forged in Dragon Fire and are pure Moon Silver. They are magically enhanced by Loopo the Mad Mage to reflect all combat spells back on the caster.
The third trunk contains:
Two leather pouches and a document that is dated year 270 of the Wizard Wars and signed by Lerotra’hh that states in payment to Gwendel for 12 Scimitars and 12 suits of Ring mail the sum of 702,000 gold in twenty-five leather pouches of 28,080 gold each.
The fourth trunk contains:
Five Uruk Skeletons
First Nights Contests
The Kanhauge Brothers have elected to face three battles tonight in an effort to win their freedom.
Kanhauge Brothers vs Bert, a troll, and Billhooks, a Minotaur, Odds 3:1 Kanhauge Brothers Win
Kanhauge Brothers vs Four Uruk of the Bleached Coal Gang Odds 6:1 Kanhauge Brothers Win
Kanhauge Brothers vs THE ARENA NAGA
Odds 12:1 THE NAGA Wins
The Arena Elven Champion Coylos vs Elondo, Human Poacher Odds 4:1 -- The Champion Wins
Second night’s Contests
The Arena Uruk Champion Frlul vs Gronpo the Giant
Odds 8:1 -- The Champion Wins
Odds 1:8 – Gronpo the Giant wins.
The Arena Gremlin Champion Gorn vs a Dwarf who claims to be Captain Tul Dar of the Blue Sapphire Dwarves. He has agreed to a fight to the DEATH to win his freedom.
Odds 2:1 -- The Champion Wins
Odds 1:2 – The Dwarf wins.
A Game Master’s Adventure for Deluxe Tunnels and Trolls© by Flying Buffalo and Ken St. Andre, Liz Danforth, James “Bear” Peter. The Fellowship of the Troll©
This Adventure was created by the following members of Trollhalla
Brad Bell as Brevail Mark Maynard as Utento the Vicious
Mark Mena as Red Mark Thornton as Lil
Douglas Mitten as the Game Master
We would like to dedicate this Adventure to all members of Trollhalla
A DAY AT THE KHAZAN ARENA
A message is delivered to the Stagger Inn. It is addressed to Brevail and the Barmaid delivers it to your room.
Brevail looks at the wax seal, LBC. Lord Basheer Cornrow. He breaks the seal and reads:
Sir,
I have been informed that the Kanhauge Brothers will be fighting each other in the arena tomorrow. I have taken the liberty of reserving a box in your name for the entire day. All food and drink is paid for and there will be a Wager Runner assigned to your box. The Box accommodates up to ten people. I thought you might enjoy seeing this match and the others that will follow.
If you are unable to accept my invitation please notify me as soon as possible so that I can avoid the cancellation fee.
With Sincere Thanks,
Lord Cornrow
RSVP is requested.
Brevail sends a reply accepting the invitation and the party decides to look for Baricgenel and Cyrus Sledge. When they go down for breakfast that morning Baricgenel and Cyrus are sitting at one of the large tables and wave energetically for the party to join them.
Conie comes to their table and asks, “What will you be having for breakfast this morning?
"I will have the 100% whole grain, organic, non-GMO oats handpicked and
prepared by Hobbs sworn to the service of the Goddess of purity and
charity, covered with sun-ripened sliced fruit collected by nymphs from
the limbs of old growth forests, and glazed with honey cultivated by
1000 year old bee hives maintained by an order of monks on the westward
side of the mountains facing the endless expanses of the trackless sea
and contained within it the very essence of the elements themselves."
He pauses for a second, and then tells Conie, "Or the eggs and bacon
like yesterday, whichever is available."
Conie laughs and says, “We got honey mead if ya likes.”
He looks at Cyrus and Baricgenel and explains the invitation to the
upcoming bout at the Arena to see if they are interested in joining the group.
Cyrus answers, “In a box seat with free food, with a star of the arena, would not miss that for anything.
Baricgenel answers, “I gratefully accept your most generous offer. I am honored to be included with such honorable company. I was planning on attending and your invitation is most appreciated. I most humbly accept your kind invitation.
Conie asks Utento, “What is wrong, you appear to be injured, if everything all right?”
Utento says, "Got a dagger thrown into my back as we were trying to get the leprechauns netted."
Conie says, "That female elf, Crue, is a healer, she could fix you back good as a new born babe. Crue, this man been stabbed in the back, can ya heal him?"
Crue stands up and says, "Since he is with an elf, I will heal him." She walks over and places her staff on Utento's back, Utento feels a warmth spread through his wound and then there is no pain. She says, "Well human, was that worth 5 gold coins?
Lil asks, “If I go and get the bacon that would be as good as the nymph part?”
Red says, “Errr….just bacon for me please.”
Utento says, “Meats, eggs, ale, and rolls.”
Conie says, “I will bring that out shortly.”
Crue asks, “Human, my five gold if you please.”
Conie and Conny come out carrying large trays.
Conie sets her tray on a corner of the table and places a plate before Brevail with two eggs, and three slices of bacon, then one before Lil with three slices of bacon and then a third before Red with three slices of bacon.
She then begins putting plates down for Utento, one has a whole chicken and a whole duck, a second plate has a large porterhouse steak, twelve slices of bacon, and three pork chops, a third plate has six eggs and six rolls. She then places two pints of ale on the table. She says, “Meats, eggs, ale, and rolls, best not leave any of it uneaten.” She picks up the two trays, turns sharply away and leaves the table.
Utento says, "What a small order!" and digs in...
Brevail enjoys breakfast, and assumes Utento is practicing for an eating contest. Or...the Leprechaun waitresses think he is too skinny.
Cyrus says, “What did you do to anger her so? Or maybe she believes the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach. I think she has a plans for you Utento, star of the Arena and all. Best step lightly around her.
Lord Basheer Cornrow comes racing into the inn. Looks around the room, spots Brevail and shouts, “Brevail, the Leprechauns have stolen my daughter, they demand the release of the Kanhauge Brothers. They have threaten that she will suffer every wound that is inflicted on the brothers. Brevail will you help?”
Brevail says, "Of course we will assist you Lord Basheer Cornrow."
Baricgenel interjects, "If you can show us where this occurred I might be able to track them."
Lord Cornrow says, "We were shopping in the Grand Market Place. Two Leprechauns appeared out of thin air, jumped into the air and pulled a large grain sack over my daughter, picked her up and ran with her towards the docks. I started following them when I was accosted by a leprechaun who told me I would only get my daughter back if the Kanhauge Brothers were released unharmed. If they are forced to fight in the arena she would suffer stroke for stroke. Then the Leprechaun disappeared and I saw the two carrying my daughter turn down Coast Street towards the Drunkard's Stumble. I came here in hopes of finding you."
Cyrus says, “Baricgenel, these Leprechauns seem to be no end of trouble. No wonder they are not allowed to enter Khosht.”
Baricgenel replies, “Khazan is an open city and as such many kindred live here in harmony. It is not that Leprechauns are trouble, it is individuals who cause problems. In this case, evil resides in some individual Leprechauns, how many we do not yet know, but the two brothers seem to have allies in this town who are just as evil as they are. We must root out the individuals and contain the evil not condemn the kindred for the actions of individual members. Remember Lurter was very evil and many humans suffered because of him. But it was the Elves who hunted him down and returned him to Khosht to stand trial.”
Utento says, "Wanna do a rescue?"
Crue interjects, “Utento, you are not going anywhere until I am paid my 5 gold coins!”
Utento says, “Sorry mam, here are your 5 gold coins. And my thanks for healing me.”+
Cyrus says, "They would have passed by this inn to get to the Drunkard's Stumble. Baric you might find their trail just outside the doorway."
Brevail is quite curious how Baric is going to track the leprechauns. And how long before the Kanhauge brothers fight in the arena?
Lord Cornrow says, “We only have until tomorrow at five when the Arena opens. I will go and see if the judges will delay the fight until later in day instead of the opening battle.
Brevail asks, "Do you still have your leprechaun nets? If so, let's go."
Red replies, “My net is ready. Let's go!"
Baric says, “Brevail give me a chance to examine the road and see what I can find out before we stir up a lot of dust on the road.”
Baric returns after twenty minutes and says, “I followed the trail of two Leprechauns carrying a heavy load to the back of the Dirty Spoon. It stopped at a large flat rock. It was like they stepped on the rock and vanished.
Baric leads the party to the back of the dirty Spoon and stops at a flat rock. Baric says, "That's is the rock.. They could not wink wing with their captive. Where did they go?"
Brevail says, “This sounds like the perfect segue for casting "Oh There It Is" and then a purple
glow shows a hidden round rock next to the flat rock. Brevail steps on the round rock. The flat rock moves and there is a sloping tunnel going under and towards the Dirty Spoon. At the bottom of the slope you can see a wood plank floor. There are loud voices below and you hear, “No Beni you cannot undress her, our orders are not to harm or search her.” A second voice says, “She’s such a pretty lass, I’ve never seen such a pretty lass naked, I won’t touch her, came on Mr. O’Malley, just a few minutes with her naked won’t hurt her.” “Beni, go into the other room, I will guard the lass. You can’t be trusted around her. And tell Tommy to go upstairs and get me an ale. Now get going before I stick you.”
Brevail whispers, "Okay, we back up and let Beni get outside. Then once
he closes the door, Red, you net him. Baric and Lil, help Red subdue
him before Beni makes too much of a fuss. Utento, Cyrus, and I will go
in and deal with the other Leprechaun. Utento, have your net ready for
the other one."
He pauses, "Unless Beni leaves through a different door, in which case
we just wait until we hear it close, and then all of us burst in on this
'Mr. O'Malley' and Red and Utento can both net him. Unless someone has
a better idea?"
You then hear heavy footsteps on a stair. You hear a voice say, “Tommy get me a beer, Tommy shine my boots. Yes, Mr. O’Malley, I will get you a beer and when no one’s looking I’ll have a drink and replace it with me piss.” Then you hear the squeak of rusty hinges, many voices and the clinking of steins, squeaky hinges and a door shuts.
Utento readies his net.
Utento and Red lead the charge down the tunnel, Utento throws his net. He traps Mr. O’Malley in his net.
O'Malley screams, "Beni, Tommy, Help! I am caught in the net."
Beni yells, "Good for you, I am out of here." You hear someone running up a stair, creaking hinges and a door slams.
Red runs to the stairs to follow Beni. Brevail sees a young girl tied to a 4 by 4 post. The poor girl is tied to a four by four post. She is sobbing and shaking; her eyes dilated in fear. She is about 16 years old, dark hair, eyes and very pale skin. At her feet is a fine cloth cloak with a full hood. She says, "Did my father send you?" Brevail nods his head and then begins to untie her
Brevail shouts, “Red the girl is here, come back. We can deal with Beni and Tommy later.
Red returns to the party Brevail picks up the cloak and helps her put it on. She pulls the hood close around her face and they leave the basement of the Dirty Spoon
Mr. O'Malley says, "What are you going to do with me. I am a licensed slaver. I have broken no laws; but you have! The Kanhauges promised me a thousand gold for the girl and their freedom. It was a legal contract under the Law of Khazan. Basheer knows that. You do not have any legal standing in this. But for five hundred gold, I will not press charges against you and you must turn me loose."
"So, Mr. O'Malley, you entered into a contract with the Kanhauge brothers to abduct the daughter of Lord Basheer and use her as leverage to force their release from the Arena? She was not to be harmed or mistreated in any way, nor sold into slavery, just used as a bargaining
chip. Am I correct in understanding that is the extent of your involvement in this situation?"
Mr. O’Malley hesitates and then says, “I was to sell her to the Kanhauge brothers as a legal slave. How I acquire my merchandise is not defined by law. I promised the brothers she would be unhurt, unspoiled, and well cared for while in my possession. I was to inform Lord Cornrow that if the Kanhauge brothers fought in the Arena his daughter would suffer the same wounds and fate of the brothers. If I don’t fulfil the contract then they do not owe me anything. There could be no down payment as they were incarcerated at the arena. So, will you free me and give me 500 gold coins?”
Brevail considers this and tells O'Malley, "I see your points and need to refer to my colleagues."
"Cyrus and Baric, would you mind watching our Leprechaun friend here for a couple minutes?"
Brevail calls Lil, Red, and Utento together out of earshot of O'Malley and tells them, "He is correct, according to Khazan Law, he has done nothing wrong and we are technically engaged in unlawful detention of a slaver - Unless one of you happens to be a licensed slaver. So we have a few choices: (1) pay him and let him go (2) take him out of Khazan with us and apply the local laws of some new place to him (3) I can find plenty of counterarguments in the Khazan Legal System to make him back down (4) one of us goes and buys a slavers license and see if anyone wants a chained leprechaun. Give him a taste of his own medicine."
He pauses, "So what do you want to do?"
Red says, "How much for a license?"
Utento says, “I like option 2 and 4, but if we take him out of Khazen and try him under another law system. We still have broken more laws? Would that clear us with a slavers license?”
Baric interjects, "I could not help but overhear, pardon my interruption but getting a slaver's license after the fact would not protect you from prosecution for an act committed prior to obtaining a license. I have taken the liberty to draw up a contract for both parties to sign that should suffice to resolve this dilemma." He hands you the following document.
In the light of current actions by Mr. O'Malley on behalf of the Kanhauge Brothers, including but not limited to the kidnapping of a female minor, Miss Cornrow, daughter of Lord Basheer Cornrow, the following actions taken by Brevail, Red, Utento, Lil, Baric, and Cyrus, consisting of tracking, locating, capturing Mr. O’Malley, and the release of the above referenced female minor back into the legal parent/child custody, this matter is considered resolved by the following, Mr. O'Malley will not bring charges against any of the parties involved in the rescue of said female minor. Mr. O'Malley will be released to continue his lawful business of acquiring and selling slaves in accordance with the Law of Khazan with one restriction, he will make no effort to recover the freed minor daughter of Lord Basheer Cornrow. In recognition of the loss suffered by Mr. O'Malley the rescue party will allow Baricgenel, an Elf of Khosht, to compensate Mr. O'Malley for his loss of legal income the sum of 500 gold coin of The City of Khazan, a recognized legal tender.
The signatures below confirm each and every part of this agreement. The parties to this agreement have reached this agreement of the party’s free will and without duress of any kind. Signed in Khazan.
After everyone has read the document, Baricgenel asks, “Does the document require any changes?
Brevail smiles, "Nope, I think this is rather perfect. Now we just need O'Malley to sign it."
Once O'Malley signs it, Brevail, Red, Utento, Lil, Baric, and Cyrus all sign the document, Baric touches the document and then a blank sheet of parchment and the writing and all the signatures are copied to the parchment. He then repeats these actions with a second blank parchment with the same results. He hands one copy to Mr. O’Malley and the original document and the second copy to Brevail. Cyrus releases Mr. O’Malley and Baric gives O’Malley 500 gold coins.as he says, “Go in peace and trouble us no more.” Mr. O’Malley walks away.
Brevail states, “I would like to submit this copy as evidence to the Magistrate that O'Malley was using his slaver license as a pretext to assist enslaved gladiators in escaping from the Khazan Arena, and therefore have O'Malley incarcerated and subjected to time in the Arena as punishment.
Baric says, “I worded it with that in mind. Our only agreement was to release him and pay him 500 gold. Nothing prohibits us from seeking justice for the girl and her family, however, may I suggest we allow Lord Cornrow the opportunity to use the document to obtain justice?
Cyrus says, “The sun and my stomach both agree that it is time for lunch, Stagger Inn anyone?”
A quick walk to the Stagger Inn and they find the inn having a lunch rush. Conie quickly clears a table for six and waves them over. The six Dwarves move to the bar.
Conie says, “Told um when they sat here if I needed the table they would half to move. Dwarves only drinking and they can do that at the bar; I was hoping to see you for lunch, our special today is deep fried whole chicken with a large ale only 1 gold. We also have butternut squash soup in steamed cheese and butter milk for only 3 coppers. Then there’s the regular fare, buffalo meat loaf, tomato rice, baked green beans with bacon bits for 3 silver; Or steamed fresh caught giant perch, fried potato sticks, roasted baby cabbages for 2 silver 3 copper. Our lighter fare today is a fresh garden lunch salad with artichoke hearts, butter lettuce, sweet peppers, carrots, celery, garbanzo beans, mushrooms and a light vinaigrette and olive oil dressing for 1 silver, you can add brazed chicken breasts for 1 silver or crawdads for 2 silver. And that comes with a cup of butternut squash soup.
Utento says, “Four whole fried chickens and large ale.”
Red says, “Just an ale for me please.”
Lil asks, “Either a Baked Alaska or a Bombed Khazan, if you if have them.
Conie says, “I doubt it but I will check with the cook.
Brevail says, “Tofurkey, please and a sweet cold tea.
Baric says, “I would like the soup and salad without the meat and a cold sweet tea, please.”
Cyrus says, “Buffalo meat loaf with a large ale, please.”
Conie leaves the table, shaking her head and mumbling about Elves and foreigners.
Conie returns with the drinks and a hob in a white apron, large white hat, and a meat cleaver in his hand. He says, “No Baked Alaska, No Bombed Khazan, No Torkey! Conie told ya what we has for lunch, look around ya, see all these people, they orders fromz the menu, now I know you are guests here at the inn, you pays your bill on time and haven’t started any fights, but Conie is a bizey lass and doesn’t have time to be running into my kitchen to find out if I got time to make some foreign food I never heard of. Now from the menu now, what do you want to eat?”
Brevail says, "Good sir, I will have the garden lunch salad, and I will buy the Dwarves who so graciously moved each a drink."
Conie writes down your order.
Lil settles for cheese and turkey sandwiches and ale and asks if anyone wants to try arm wrestling?
The cook says, “No turkey, chicken ok?
“Little lady wants to arm wrestle, Sir Walow would accept your challenge for a proper reward, when I win you will spend the night in my bed and provide me with great pleasure.”
Lil looks at the stranger and sees that he is an Uruk, richly dressed, holds a very ornate and jeweled cane, wears many rings, including one large signet ring with a Death Head Crest. His smile is more of a sneer than anything of a friendly nature.
Brevail notices the Death Head Crest and recognizes it as the Family Crest of Queen Lerotra’hh.
After checking the reaction of those about her in case they have any warnings about this Uruk, Lil smiles saucily and says, “I will accept your challenge, providing you can make an acceptable offer as to what I will gain if I surprises you and I win. What is your name?”
He replies with a sweeping bow, "My name is Sir Walow, Knight of the Queen, Fifth in line for the Throne and Captain of the North Gate Guards. If you should by some twist of fate win (he laughs at the thought), I will become your Knight Protector, Present you at Court before my Aunt the Queen and have conferred upon you the title of Duchess of Khazan."
Brevail says, “Good Luck, Lil, I am not a betting Elf. “ Brevail remembers Sir Walow, he was banned from Court for an indiscretion with one of the Queen’s Ladies in Waiting. Lerotra’hh beheaded her in front of the entire court and then hung her body from the North Gate and her head is still on a pike by the throne. He could no more follow through on his part of the bet than Utento could. He is no longer a Knight of the Queen, is not in line for the Throne, no one is as Lerotra’hh seems to possess eternal youth, and he was dismissed as Captain of the North Gate Guards.
Lil and Sir Walow go to the tables set up for arm wrestling, they have three contests ahead of them. Finally it is their turn.
Lil and Sir Walow go to the table, sit, clasp hands, (Lil’s hand disappears in Sir Walow’s large maw. She grimaces in pain and begins pushing Sir Walow’s arm to the table. Sir Walow grunts and stops the decent but is unable to regain the loss and is fighting an uphill battle. Their arms are shaking rapidly with the strain. Sweat breaks out on Sir Walow’s forehead. His arm moves closer to the table. He grips his leg with his left hand. He is slowly losing the match. His face turns black with the effort to regain control. There is a loud crack, a scream of pain, and his hand smashes into the table. Blood squirts from his wrist, a bone is sticking out of his wrist, he jumps to his feet, lifts one foot off the floor and falls flat on his face. The few patrons in the bar begin chanting Lil, Lil, Lil.
Cyrus rushes and kneels at Sir Walow’s side. Rolls him over and examines the wrist. He shouts above the noise and says, “This is bad, Crue this Uruk needs your skills. Will you help?”
Crue shouts back, “Let the Uruk bleed out. The creep does not deserve my skills. The city will be a better place without him.” She lifts her stein and says, “Long live the Queen, Long live Lerotra’hh” She downs her ale and stands, walks to the door and leaves the Inn.
Cyrus attempts to reset the bone and stop the squirting blood. The pool of black blood grows larger and the Uruk becomes even paler. His breathing becomes labored and shallow.
Brevail sets down his glass of distilled water and stands up. "Crue
needs to be reminded of the story of the Knight Hospitalet who failed
initiation because he said all Uruks were evil, and refused to save a
drowning child."
He squats down next to Sir Walow and zaps him with a "Poor Baby" to keep
him from bleeding out and stabilize him to consciousness, but still in a
lot of pain. He looks Sir Walow in the eyes and says, "Now, good sir,
you entered into a bet with my colleague here, a bet which you had no
chance of ever fulfilling if you lost. You lost. By my understanding of
the Law of Khazan, you now become her bondsman until such time as you
have repaid the value of your wager. Do you disagree?"
“Yes, I do disagree, I am of Royal Bloodlines, I cannot be forced to be a bondsman to one of lessor blood. I would rather die than become a bondsman to a human female. But what value can you place on such an esoteric reward? What would the lady like in compensation?”
Lil comes close and leans over the Uruk.
"You put up a good show. If you cannot deliver on your promise then I want two things of you: a house, freehold, and an enchanted weapon. There - I think I am letting you off lightly!"
Sir Walow pulls a house key from his pocket and a deed from his coat. On the back of the deed he writes, “Sold to Ovthaphalli, a human female, for consideration given. Rgert Walow. He then picks up his cane and hands it to Lil. Hold the handle and say, “Take that you fiend.”
Baric touches the cane and says, “This is a magical item that will cast a Sixth Level TTYF.”
When Lil examines the cane more closely, she discovers that it is a sword cane.
The party goes to the house to inspect it. Lil shows the deed to the Housekeeper. The House keeper summons all staff and introduces them to Lil and the Party.
Elena says, “I am the Housekeeper, I handle the accounts, supervise the staff and ensure the Household is maintained in a proper and efficient manner. I am married to Alfred, the Valet.
This is Boswell, our butler, and his wife, Glenda our chef. Helena is the Kitchen maid, Mariam is the first floor maid, and Ester is the second floor maid.
I will be happy to show you the accounts and we understand that you may want to hire your own staff. You should know that Helena is Boswell and Glenda’s daughter. Mariam and Ester are Alfred and my daughters. The grounds keeper Gregory and his sons care for the grounds. Our three families have served this house for six generations. Helena is being trained to become a chef and I am training my daughter Mariam to replace me, and Ester has completed the training as a Ladies Maid. We all would like to remain in our posts and have our children follow in our footsteps as honored members of the household staff. If you would allow us to serve you and your … associates dinner tonight at 4 p.m. we would be honored and you can judge our skills. The linens in all the rooms are fresh this morning, the fire places in all the rooms are laid with dry wood and sufficient wood for the night. We are prepared to accommodate all your needs Lil and would be grateful for the opportunity to serve you.”
Lil thinks to herself, “I need to engage in more arm wrestling matches...”
Utento says, "Very nice place! I'm not use to this type of luxury in my life."
Lil is a little nonplussed to find herself really in charge of such staff. She thanks them all and says that they can call her either 'Mistress Lil' or 'Ma'am. She says she looks forward to dinner as they suggest and then she would like a carriage to take her and her friends to the Arena.
Utento says, "What sorta wine you got?"
Elena looks at Utento and then says, “Mistress Lil, we do not have any wines in the house, the previous owner only drank Ale. If you would like I can get a selection of wines at the Grand Market if you can provide me with a list of the wines you prefer. I believe there is a surplus in this month’s food budget that will cover a small selection.”
Lil tells Elena to go to a reputable merchant and obtain a good selection as she is not used to wine and needs to find out her preferences. She tells Elena to inform the merchant that if his wines impress, he can expect regular orders. Lil also asks Elena if the staff are well fed or if there are any aspects of their employment that cause them unhappiness.
Elena says that the former master was prone to strike the staff and pestered the female staff as men of his class are wont to do. I hope that you will not allow such actions from your guests. Although, we suffered it in silence, you asked. Will your guest be staying long? I only ask so that I can make sure the food and sundries are adequate while they are here. I will need to purchase more food to provide for five more people in the house. The former master had only female guests and they normally only stayed until the master had fallen asleep. They were not the sort of women who would stay for breakfast and the master could be quite mean to them. Many left injured if they failed to please him. His father, before his death, would not allow such women in the house. I believe the staff can look forward to better days, as long as your guests behave. Do you have a preference on where they will sleep?
Lil reassures Elena that her guests will not misbehave - at least, not with regard to staff welfare. She wants the master bedroom completely fumigated and will have a good room assigned to each of the others.
At 3:55 p.m. Boswell announces, “Dinner will be served in the main dining room in five minutes, please take your seat as soon as is convenient.
The table is set with fine silver plates, there is a soup spoon above each plate, three forks on the left of each plate and two knives on the right of each plate with three crystal glasses to the right of each plate, a bread plate and butter knife to the left of each plate. There are linen napkins in silver napkin rings on each plate and hand written name cards. At the head of the table is a name card with Ovthaphalli, on her right is Brevail, on her left is Baric, next to Brevail is Utento and then Red, Cyrus is seated next to Baric. At 3:58 Boswell enters the dining room and says, “Tonight we will be serving a lobster bisque, then butter lettuce, orange wedges, walnut salad, followed by leg of lamb, with wild rice and fresh green beans. We have paired the lobster bisque with a Grand Marquis Rose’, the Salad with a dry Riesling, and with the main course a cabernet sauvignon. Dessert tonight is Chocolate Mousse paired with a 15 year old Tawny Port.” He claps his hands and Helena and Mariam enter with a large soup tureen and bowl and begin serving the bisque while Alfred begins pouring the wine. The enticing aroma of the bisque fills the dining room and heightens everyone’s appetite. The aroma only gave a hint to exquisite flavor of the bisque. The rest of the meal is an ever increasingly flavorful dining experience cumulating in the dessert and port. Once finished with the meal Alfred returns and says, “Your carriage to the Arena has arrived, you may leave at you leisure.”
The large carriage is drawn by six jungle trolls, it will comfortably seat ten. A smooth and gentle ride and you arrive at the arena at the entrance for patrons holding boxed seats. You feel out of place with the rich nobles and merchants in their fine clothes occupying the boxes around your box. You are given a list of the fights scheduled for the night.
The wage runner asks, “Will you be placing any bets tonight?”
Lil bets 500 on the Brothers for each of the first three fights (unless they die before the end!); then she bets 1,000 on the champion. She asks those about her if they can recommend a tailor for her friends and herself. Lil wins 4,500 but loses 500 on the third. She wins 4000 on the fourth fight.
Red bets 1000 on the Kanhauges and 2000 on the champion. Red wins 6,000 loses 1000 but wins 8000 on the fourth fight
Utento says, "Feels weird being on the other side." and bets 500 on each Kanhauge fights (unless they die before the end...) and 500 on the champion. Utento wins 4,500 but loses 500 on the third and wins 2000 on the fourth
The Kanhauges win their first two fights, but the Naga eats them both. The Champion subdues his opponent.
Utento says, "I'm just glad to be free and not just working for the cheers of the crowd"
Brevail congratulates his comrades for their excellent wins on betting. He offers a prayer for the souls of the Kanhauges after they are eaten, since those two are somewhat responsible for the entire chain of events which has led to this windfall of prosperity for everyone. The crow cheers wildly for a great night of gore and slaughter. Your carriage awaits and returns you unharmed to the house. Boswell opens the door and says, “Welcome home Mistress Lil and guests. Your room has been cleaned in accordance with your instructions. Will you require anything else this evening? At what time would you like your breakfast?
Lil expresses her thanks and asks if anyone wants a nightcap or a sandwich?
Utento says, "What is a good drink before bed?"
Boswell says, “A cup of hot chocolate.
Red says, “A pint of sherry should do the trick.”
Boswell says, “I will bring you a pint of sherry, Sir.”
Utento says, "Ok a pint it is!"
Boswell says, “Mister Utento, is that a pint of cherry, a pint of hot chocolate or a pint of both?
Utento says, “A pint of sherry should do the trick.”
Boswell says, “I will bring you a pint of sherry, Sir.”
When Lil retires for the night she learns that Ester has moved into the Staff Bed Room next to her room and Alfred and Elena have moved to the third floor. Ester explains, “As Alfred was the former Master’s Valet his lived next to the Master’s room. But now that you are Mistress of the House, I, as your Lady’s Maid, now occupy that room. I have laid out your night clothing, and when you are ready I will brush your hair. If you require anything during the night just ring the bell on your nightstand and I will come to attend you. I will wake you an hour before breakfast with hot tea and buttered toast, or if you prefer something else I will arrange with the kitchen to provide it. May I assist you in undressing?
Suppressing a giggle, Lil permits the assistance and asks that a good tailor be summoned to the house on the morrow. She tells Esther that because she had a good night at the Arena she wishes to hire musicians and dancers to perform at dinner tomorrow night and hopes the staff will enjoy the night's entertainment.
The next morning after breakfast Boswell announces, “Will anyone attend the Arena tonight at 5 p.m.? A wager runner is here with a Flyer with tonight’s contests. Does anyone wish to place any bets? Also I have prepared the Library as requested by Brevail and Baric, you may lock yourselves in the Library so that Baric can teach Brevail new spells. Once they enter please do not disturb them.”
Tonight’s Contests
The Arena Uruk Champion Frlul vs Gronpo the Giant
Odds 8:1 -- The Champion Wins
Odds 1:8 – Gronpo the Giant wins.
The Arena Gremlin Champion Gorn vs a Dwarf who claims to be Captain Tul Dar of the Blue Sapphire Dwarves. He has agreed to a fight to the DEATH to win his freedom.
Odds 2:1 -- The Champion Wins
Odds 1:2 – The Dwarf wins.
Brevail says, “I am not a betting elf, but I will put 500 gold on Captain Tul Dar, and if the dwarf loses I want the body sent to the Grimhold so the Dwarves can ensure a proper interment according to Dwarf customs. I will cover all costs.”
Red says, “I will bet 1000 GP on the Uruk. And 1000 GP on Captain Tul Dar.”
Utento says, “Just a 1,000 GP on Captain Tul Dar.”
Lil says, “I bet 500 on the dwarf and 500 on the Uruk.
The wage runner notes their bets and returns to the Arena.
On day two of four as Brevail begins his meditation he hears a sweet voice say, "Brevail, I am called Wild Rose."
Brevail sees a fairy like person who stands over two feet tall. She has the skin tone, eye color, and hair color of an Elf.
Brevail says, "I am honored to meet you, Wild Rose. What brings one of the fey kind to this garden?"
Brevail listens carefully, not only to what she has to say, but if there are other fairies around.
Wild Rose says, "I am an Elf-Fairy. My mother is an Elf Wizard. She resides in the Elven Reserve here in Khazan. No one knows who my father is, other than he was a Fairy of course. My mother will not speak about him and claims to have never met him. It is my personal opinion that it was the result of fairy magic and my mother was a victim. Anyway, I am an outcast. So I live in this garden and care for the plants and animals that live in the garden. No one in the house
knows of my existence here and I prefer to keep it that way. And if you swear on the Sacred Elven Tree of Hilium to keep my secret, I will give you a reward.
Brevail considers this and replies, "I am honored that you have chosen to share your secret with me, and I shall keep it for the rest of my days and swear this on the Sacred Tree of Hilium. I am something of an outcast myself, and find the ideals I live by do not mesh well with those in power here in Khazan. I hope you come to think of me as your friend, and I shall do my utmost to keep your confidence at all times.”
Wild Rose continues, “The reward is a Deluxe Wand Extra-Ordinaire, it has the spirit of a
mighty elven mage who knew all known spells as well as a few no other wizard knows. This wizard was held captive here by the pig Walow. The wizard showed me where he hid it and told me the secrete words. Then he hid his spirit in the Wand Extra-Ordinaire and it became a Deluxe
Wand Extra-Ordinaire. The Spirit of the Wizard in the Deluxe Wand Extra-Ordinaire only allow the wand to be used to protect the weak from harm and will warn the wielder of the approach of evil beings, of physical or spirit forms. I know many secretes of the house and if you prove true hearted I will teach them to you."
Brevail speaks, “If the Wand you speak of finds me worthy, I shall use it with the utmost care and honor, respecting the wishes of its former master. I know not if I am worthy and true hearted, but I strive to live by a code of honor and hope that is sufficient for you and the wand. Is there anything I can do to make your life in the garden easier?"
Wild Rose responds, "Only being accepted by one of the Elves is sufficient to make my life in the garden easier. For the last two days I have observed you and your comrades. They and you are a great improvement on the prior occupant. And the fact that you have come to meditate in the location of the wand tells me that you have been chosen to wield it in honor and for the greater good. Lift the stone upon which you now sit, there you will find the reward you have earned. I believe we will be friends, allies and heal this land. Your meditation in the garden has already brought plants to bloom that have not bloomed in fifty years."
Below the stone you find a Mithril Wand with a Star Diamond on its end. The handle is wrapped in soft leather and has a leather wrist band. As you pick up the wand you realize a knowledge of the following spells in addition to all the spells known to Elf, Man, Dwarf and Hobs. You "see" in your mind an old elf, his thoughts are known to you and you "hear" in your mind, "Brother, you have been chosen, your values are honorable and your intentions are pure. Your actions are
> true to your values. I will assist you in fulfilling your destiny. Do not challenge Queen Lerotra'hh, work behind the screen to aid her subjects in finding a better life under her rule. You have already greatly improved the lives of the humans in this city. Aid your allies, but do not forsake your values. Call on me at need."
Brevail says to Wild Rose, "This is a great gift, I fear it is a greater trust than I am worthy of
holding, but I shall strive to honor the requests of the elven wizard within and my fairy friend." Brevail examines the wand closely and then tucks it into the sleeves of his shirt while tying the leather wrist band down. "Wild Rose, you will always be accepted by me, but I shall
see about bringing you some level of acceptance among our kin."
Wild Rose says, “I must attend to the garden, but I will not leave here now. Peace my Friend, until we meet again.”
Brevail sits on the rock and begins meditating and after a while he hears Boswell announce dinner is being served. He goes into the house and enters the dining room. As Baric, Cyrus, Red, Utento and Brevail takes their places a group of musicians enter the dining room and begin playing softly. A hansom Elf plays a flute, a beautiful Human female is playing a Lyre, a Human male plays a coronet, and a cute Hob female plays a small drum. Lil follows the musicians and dances to her seat.
Around 7:00 p.m. the wage runner returns to the house.
Brevail wins 1000 gold pieces.
Red wins 2000 gold pieces on the Dwarf, loses 1000 gold pieces on the Uruk
Utento wins 2000 gold pieces
Lil wins 1000 on the dwarf and loses 500 on the Uruk
Utento gives Lil 1,800gp and says, "This is to cover for me at your home for 12 months."
Lil thanks Utento and enquires if he would like to be fitted out for some society clothes.
Utento looks at what he is wearing and says, "I would really like that!” He smiles and says to Lil, "Thank you!"
Brevail is thrilled to know that Captain Tul Dar survived. He decided to go out and search for is comrade. When he gets to the street he sees Tul Dar approaching the He is uninjured and greets Brevail, "Hail, Brevail, well met. I bet on myself and slew the Uruk without him being close enough to hurt me. I am 5,000 gold coin richer. Is this your home?"
Brevail says, "It is the house of a friend of mine. Let us enter and I will introduce you to the owner and my comrades."
Brevail takes Captain Tul Dar into Lil's house and introduces him to
everyone.
Brevail relates the battle against the Rock Demons
We are facing 19 Rock Fiends, each has cast a TTYF at the goblins, trolls and dwarves, only three goblins were hit by the spells for minor damage (less than 20 points of damage) and 18 of the Rock Fiends are now setting tridents and forming an arc in front of the 19th Rock Fiend, who is barking orders, "Prepare to repel their charge, Shield wall, set tridents! Hold the line. Steady now!
Goblins, Trolls, and Dwarves Attack the Rock Fiends. The Rock Trolls throw boulders into the shield wall, killing three Rock Fiends; one is their leader. The Goblins clash their short swords against their shields and yell insults at the Rock Fiends concerning the honor of their families and status of their birth. The Dwarves fire cross bows resulting in two dead Rock Fiends and two wounded with one running away.
The Rock Fiends reform their shield wall not realizing that their leader is beneath a large boulder breathing his last breath. Receiving no orders they remain ready for a charge that never came. For the Rock Trolls throw three more boulders smashing the three Rock Fiends in the center of the shield wall. The Dwarves fire their cross bows killing two more and wounding two more leaving five Rock Fiends who now see their leader’s feet sticking out from under the large boulder. They jump up and run down a road leading to the wall. And from there they reach the front gate.
While the goblins are celebrating the victory against the Rock Fiends we hear from behind us a -voice speaking Dwarven, "Hail and Well Met Friends of the Blue Sapphire Dwarves, We met five Rock Fiends running out the gate, we killed them before they could reach the bridge. I am Captain Tul Dar of the Blue Sapphire Dwarves. I have come here to negotiate a treaty with the Goblins of this City on behalf of King Buckles. I am at your service."
As we turn to face them we see a dwarf in red robes, a Mithril staff in his right hand. He is wearing Mithril Dwarven Ring Mail with no helm. His white hair and beard identifies him as one of the Old Ones and covering his right ear is a braid of his white hair reaching to his belt. In his left hand is a Mithril Dwarven Spike Shield.
Behind him are nine Dwarven Warriors, all in Dwarven Ring Mail and carrying Broad Axes and Dwarven Spiked Shields. The Dwarf leading the column of warriors is an old, heavy set dwarf with a patch over his left eye. The other eight warriors have tridents strapped to their backs. When Captain Tul Dar stops moving, the old dwarf with the eye patch shouts, "Platoon Halt!" With a stomp of each foot and a click of their heels and a simultaneous shout, "Yes, Sargent" the platoon comes to a smart stop.”
Captain Tul Dar says, “Be ye reminded, had not the Dwarves and Brevail been such honorable and respectful warriors, my task of negotiating a peace with the goblins would have been much harder to accomplish. King Buckles is a just and honest ruler. His vision of a peaceful Dwarf World will become a reality one day.”
Four Leprechauns appear in the dining room. Flames shoot from their staves and the dining table is aflame. The leprechauns laugh loudly, and disappear yelling, “The Kanhauge Brothers will have their revenge. Long live the Kanhauge Brothers.”
Brevail looks at Captain Tul Dar, "We have a leprechaun infestation
problem it seems." He waves his hand at the table and casts "It's
Elementary" extinguishing the flames.
Captain Tul Dar speaks, “Ber Leprechauns” A glimmering sphere appears in his hand and in the sphere all can see four leprechauns running down the lane in front of the house. They then appear to be running in a mist. They turn down the Coast Road in the direction of the Dirty Spoon. As you continue to watch them you see them enter the basement door. The glimmering sphere disappears. Captain Tul Dar asks, “Do any of you know the building they entered?”
A sweet voice speaks softly in Brevail’s ear, "I know those four, they work for Walow. As did the Kanhauge Brothers, beware they are dangerous."
Brevail responds, "We do indeed good captain. Far too well it seems. That is a hang-out of thieves and cutthroats and we seem to spend considerable time there either rescuing or incarcerating the inhabitants." He looks over at the rest of the group, "Well, shall we go air our grievances with them again?"
Utento says with a frown, "Really having a dislike for leprechauns..." He looks to Brevail, "What can we say to end all this nonsense?"
Lil suggests, “I could arm-wrestles the leprechaun champion. I have never arm-wrestled with a leprechaun before.” She grits her teeth thinking of one Wink-Winging at the critical moment!
Captain Tul Dar asks, “May I attend this airing of grievances?”
Brevail nods, "Absolutely friend. Baric and Cyrus, do you want to join
us?"
Baric says, “I will join you.”
Cyrus says, “Yes, I will.”
"The first issue is to find out who is behind all this. Four
Leprechauns do not randomly risk life and limb without good cause.
While I am sure the Kanhauge brothers had friends and allies, they also
likely reported to a higher authority. Crime is an organized beast and
there is always someone at the top. At this point we have two dead
leprechauns who engaged in theft and arranged a kidnapping from prison.
We have four live leprechauns who just attacked a table in revenge."
"As much as I would like to think it was little more than petty revenge,
we have to assume the Dirty Spoon is fast becoming a trap for us."
He looks over at Lil, "And it is possible that, at the end of the day,
your recent arm-wrestling exploits left us with an angry Uruk who wants
revenge on you. This could all lead back to him, especially if these
Leprechauns worked for him. Rather than rushing to the Dirty Spoon, it
might not hurt to find out who we need to be fighting, rather than get
ourselves or others injured in a crossfire."
Boswell enters the dining room. He is carrying a small silver tray which has a white envelop sitting upon it. He says, “Mistress Lil, pardon the intrusion but a messenger just delivered this and said it was most urgent.”
The message reads, "Lil, come to the Dirty Spoon, we want to end this petty strife, you are new to Khazan and do not understand how this city works. We want a peace conference. Bring your henchmen, if you like. Or come alone, we only want to talk." Signed Walow
Upon arrival at the Dirty Spoon you see through the open door six Leprechauns and Walow sitting at a table inside the bar. You are surprised to see that Collin and Erin Kanhauge are alive and well sitting facing the door. Walow raises his hand in a gesture of peace and says, “I see you have accepted my invitation, come in, come in. We need to explain how things work here in Khazan.” The four leprechauns who visited you get up and move a table and seven chairs to the table where the Kanhauge Brothers and Walow are sitting and then retake their seats at the table.
Walow says, “You now live in my ancestral home. You are drinking my beer, sleeping in my bed, reading my books, and soon the Bosses will be granting you my family’s titles and rights to Lil. I made a bet, I lost. And I will honor that bet. You were hired to release a girl I had kidnapped, you succeeded and as a result the Kanhauge Brothers were defeated in the arena. They have accepted that and will not seek any vengeance for their loss. I also will be allowed to search the garden of my home to regain an item that was hidden there by a traitor Elf who was in my employ. If you and your henchmen will refrain from further persecution of me and my henchmen. We will have peace. Do you agree?”
Lil says, I want to know what is buried in the garden.”
Brevail asks, "You destroyed, and owe us for, a table that was needlessly vandalized when a simple message would suffice. Now what is hidden in the garden you value? How can you be sure it is in there? And how do you intend to search for it?"
Then Brevail's eyes narrow and he asks in a flat, deadly sounding, monotone, "And what happens if we decide we don't like your proposal and the answers to my questions?"
Utento glares at Walow and the six leprechauns.
Walow rises angrily, knocking over his chair. He shouts, “The Wand is mine, mine, mine. I searched for years seeking the Elf-scum that betrayed me. I found him, I tortured him, for hours, for days and he would not reveal its location. I will rip the garden to shreds, I will dig until I hit stone! I will have what is mine!”
A flash of lightening shoots from Brevail’s arm, thunder shakes the building and Walow is turned to dust. The six leprechauns are turned to glass statues, the table they were sitting at is smoking, and their shadows stand out against the bleached wall behind them. The wand turns to ash and its outline is branded on his arm.
Utento says, "That was a very productive peace talk....so who wants a drink?"
Brevail sighs. "I do. A very, very strong drink."
Cyrus says, “I do, but not here, shall we return to the house and attempt to make sense of what just happened.”
Lil says, “I want to go home and have everyone do a thorough search - who knows what has been hidden there!”
Utento starting to look a little worried and says, "Not a bad idea! Enough trouble has been done here for today."
You return to the house to find that Boswell has managed to remove all signs of the fire and says, “Years of bee wax on the table protected the finish. I have finished cleaning it and re-waxed it. Will you require anything else Mistress Lil?”
Lil replies, “Roc Egg Nog for everyone and heavy on the rum please. It has been a trying day.”
Utento smiles and says, "Roc Egg Nog! A big glass for me!"
Red says, “An ale for me.”
Boswell says, “Shall I serve it in the library Mistress Lil?”
Lil says, “The library will be perfect, thank you-perhaps you would lay out any books on leprechauns.”
Boswell says, “It will be as you wish.” He exits the main hall and heads for the kitchen.
Utento says, "Think going anymore trouble from more of those little bastards?"
Red replies “A good leprechaun is a netted leprechaun!”
As you gather in the Library Baric says, “Where is Brevail?”
Brevail says, “I am right here.”
Everyone turns toward the door way to the Library and see Brevail standing next to a beautiful two feet tall Fairy, with many Elven features. She is dressed in a full length blue gown, it sparkles like a lake in the afternoon breeze. As she walks into the Library on Brevail’s arm each of the adventurers hears the gentle lapping of waves on a sandy beach. Her black wings twinkle with stars and she is surrounded by a golden glow.
Brevail says, “May I introduce Miss Wild Rose, a Fairy-Elf who I met in the garden recently. She has lived in the garden for many years and tends it with loving care. Miss Rose, this is Lil, the owner of the estate, a true comrade and excellent warrior, this is Red, also a true comrade and excellent warrior, this is Utento also a true comrade and excellent warrior. This is Baricgenel a most excellent Elven Mage and his friend Cyrus a wild mage and both have proven their loyalty and friendship many times. They are from the ancient City of Khosht in the south. Oh and this is Captain Tul Dar, a wise and ancient Dwarf from the Fortress of the Blue Sapphire Dwarves.”
Wild Rose places her hands to her forehead, her lips, her heart, and then with a circling motion swings her arms open and says, “It is a pleasure to greet you all and put names to the faces I have seen in and around this house in the past weeks. Thank you for your hospitality.”
Utento says, "Miss Rose, it is a pleasure to meet you."
Red says, "Very nice to meet you Miss Rose."
Lil welcomes Rose and asks her if she would like a tour of the place. She tells the others she needs to stay in shape for arm wrestling and starts on designing a poster, intending to host a tourney.
Wild Rose replies, “I have lived in the garden for over fifty years and I know more about this house than any of the previous inhabitants, behind that narrow book case is a secret room. The door is opened by pushing that knot in the edge of the fourth shelf.” She flies over to the narrow bookcase and pushes the knot and the book case rotates on the left side into the room behind it.
The room contains four large shipping trunks. Each is locked.
Wild Rose flies to a small vase, flies into it and flies out holding a silver key. She hands it to Lil, “This belongs to you now.”
Lil opens the first trunk and finds:
Urukish Scimitars 5d6 +15 STR Req. 16 DEX Req. 16 52” long Cost 56,000 gold each WU 125
There are slots for twelve but only eleven Scimitars are in the trunk. There is a document dated year 4,700 of the Wizard Wars in the trunk that states:
These Scimitars are made of moon silver, by the 1,000 fold method. Forged in Dragon Fire by Gwendel the Urukish Master Swordsmith. They are perfectly balanced. They are magically enhanced by Loopo the Mad Mage to do double damage to humans.
The second trunk contains
Twelve Complete Sets of Urukish Ring Mail – Armor Protection 120; STR Req. 10 Cost: 2,500 gold each WU 25.
There is a document dated year 4,700 of the Wizard Wars in the trunk that states:
These twelve suits of Ring Mail are made by Gwendel the Urukish Master Swordsmith. They are forged in Dragon Fire and are pure Moon Silver. They are magically enhanced by Loopo the Mad Mage to reflect all combat spells back on the caster.
The third trunk contains:
Two leather pouches and a document that is dated year 270 of the Wizard Wars and signed by Lerotra’hh that states in payment to Gwendel for 12 Scimitars and 12 suits of Ring mail the sum of 702,000 gold in twenty-five leather pouches of 28,080 gold each.
The fourth trunk contains:
Five Uruk Skeletons
First Nights Contests
The Kanhauge Brothers have elected to face three battles tonight in an effort to win their freedom.
Kanhauge Brothers vs Bert, a troll, and Billhooks, a Minotaur, Odds 3:1 Kanhauge Brothers Win
Kanhauge Brothers vs Four Uruk of the Bleached Coal Gang Odds 6:1 Kanhauge Brothers Win
Kanhauge Brothers vs THE ARENA NAGA
Odds 12:1 THE NAGA Wins
The Arena Elven Champion Coylos vs Elondo, Human Poacher Odds 4:1 -- The Champion Wins
Second night’s Contests
The Arena Uruk Champion Frlul vs Gronpo the Giant
Odds 8:1 -- The Champion Wins
Odds 1:8 – Gronpo the Giant wins.
The Arena Gremlin Champion Gorn vs a Dwarf who claims to be Captain Tul Dar of the Blue Sapphire Dwarves. He has agreed to a fight to the DEATH to win his freedom.
Odds 2:1 -- The Champion Wins
Odds 1:2 – The Dwarf wins.