The only thing that distinguishes the Town Hall in Skip from other buildings is the size of the tent. At roughly three times the size of a normal dwelling place, it surely stands out from the crowd.

Two guards at the front door gently pull curtains aside and allow you to pass through the doorway, though they eye Zaranak suspiciously due to his heritage.

Once inside, you easily identify the Nog chieftan by his headdress. He is standing in the center of the entrance hall, surrounded on all sides by fellow elders. There is a mighty oak tree here, which supports the center of the room. It is around this oak that the elders converse.

His whiskers bristle at your presence. From afar he waves at you and says, "Travelers, come and speak with us."

Like many Nog chieftans, his title is equivalent to the name of his village. Therefore, it is considered polite to refer to him as "Skip."

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OOC: Though he seems friendly enough, you may still use "Charm" (Charisma) or "Appeal" (Anthropology) skills to improve his reaction.

The Vasar would approach the Nog Chieftan, glancing back at Jack before nodding to Skip. "Good eve Chieftan." He would say, "We need your aid."

Zaranak, feeling slightly uncomfortable, observes the room carefully, using Perception to spot any potential irregularities or dangers, but says nothing.

After Skip and the Vassar are done talking, Jack decides to have a little chat with the chieftain mostly asking about how the village is doing and getting more information due to his familiarity with the Nogs' local customs. He knows that Skip likes to talk in his own tongue since the tongue of the humans and Vassars can be quite unwieldly for him and his folk. Appealing to the chieftain, he inquires about any other news that might be of interest to the party.

Jack also inquires if there's anything that can be done for the village after they finish rescuing their comrades.

OOC: I didn't know whether to use Appeal formally or via description so please assume that I have Appealed somewhere in there, Stoic :P

Skip: "Hello traveler. How can we be of assistance?"
Zaranak rolls 4/5--Perception.

Zaranak spots two guards approximately 15 feet behind him... their eyes are fixed on him. They each hold a hand near their waist, ready to draw their shortswords at any moment. Zaranak determines that he should remain still and not make any sudden movements.

The Vasar leans down, to speak to Skip, but backs up as Jack takes over

Lucas looks around in curiosity at the short Nogs around him. He has never seen ogs in there natural environment.

OOC: Just fine the way you did it.

Jack rolls 3/5: Anthropology: Speak language
Jack rolls 4/5: Anthropology: Appeal

The chieftain (Skip) has his reaction to you increased to 7/10 but will not increase further.

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Skip smiles, "The village is operating splendidly, and it's not my doing. We're blessed here. The bushes outside the Groves are naturally plentiful, the river provides a natural defense for the occasional rogue Druid that would do us harm. All in all, everything is great.

"The news up north is obviously much more bleak. I realize that it's only been a few days, but as you know, our eyes see far. We are quite aware of the battle you have won for all of Vue. Rest not, as the Lich's minions remain spread throughout these lands. They will try to open the portals once more, we must all remain vigilant for the return of the 'primitives.'

"The elders and I were just discussing the situation in Endirum. Have you heard of it? It's a Vasar port, due west of the Grand Desert of Quesar. We have had merchants pass through these parts lately, reporting a grim situation in the city. Apparently the people have fallen prey to tyrants, and are suffering from starvation and poverty.

[OOC: New campaign option unlocked: WICKED ALLIANCE. When we pick the next campaign, this can be one option.]

"There's not much you can do to help us right now, but we know that Buster Village is looking to hire a team of adventurers. Strange story about that: they stumbled across a cave southeast of Keytan, found primitive drawings painted on the walls... we cannot read the language. That part is unusual enough, as we have wise-men that know all of the languages in Vue, both primitive and modern.

"What is more perplexing is that there is a field of magical energy that prevents them from delving further into the caves. Yet they report seeing humans enter the cave and disappearing - so apparently the field only keeps Nogfolk out. Such unique magic... Buster would like to know more, as would we.

[OOC: New campaign option unlocked: THE SUBTERRANEAN MYSTERY]

"Good luck saving your friend. We are happy to help as we can - but please look into the situation near Buster when you have a chance. It's not urgent, so take your time.

A Nog scouting party will escort you through the Groves. You probably won't see them - but that doesn't mean they aren't there. Best of luck."
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OOC: Any character may act/move. Do anything you like here, or if you're ready to head off into the Groves, just let me know.

An elder glances at Lucas.

"You there," he says, holding both ends of his staff above his head, "bet you have never seen such an impressive walking stick, eh?"

"And it doubles as a weapon for visitors that stare too much," he adds, laughing playfully.

The Vasar turned towards the grove, to stand outside and wait for the others to come. His Elemental Magic was acting up as he felt the earth beneath his feet shiver a bit.

Lucas grins in reply, "Not I haven't. It is very strange to see Nogs in their natural environment, for me anyways. Must of my life I've lived in the bustlings cities."

Jack bows with respect to the Nog chieftain.

"Thank you for the information and help you have provided. As to Buster's problem, I'll see what I can do. I am sure our Vassar might be able to take a look at the strange magic therein. Of course, that remains to be seen after we rescue our comrades. and the intrigue that you hint of at the Vassar port truly makes it difficult for one to decide what to tackle next. Magic and intrigue..."

Before leaving, he addresses Skip:

"If your travels ever take you near the keep of the former Black Brigade, feel free to make yourself at home, we will more than happy to receive such an august personage as yourself."

Jack leaves and gently prods Lucas to go with him. Whispering in his ear, "Sorry for the grab, but I think the Nog are a wee bit grumpy after their long nap and it's best we leave before they get grumpier. Lovely folk but it's easy to get on their bad side at times."

Lucas seems a little caught off guard but nods and follows Jack.

OOC: *shrugs* everyone in the party (six of you) have posted at least once or more within the last 2 days. I will get around to replying to everything that was just posted in a little bit.