Part 6: In which shit gets real for the good hobbits of Mastertea
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From the Journal of Gnorm
16th Limestone, 552
I traded today with my fellow halflings. I see now why they carry so much with them. The weight of all of the anvils I was trading with caused the merchant to complain about how how his animals couldn't carry the weight. This forced me to purchase heavier, more expensive goods. On top of that, he would continuously demand I gave him more anvils to pay for thousands more than what I owe. Those traders are just lucky that they're not hanging out with walking trees.
24th Limestone, 552
The cook that went mad over the lack of silk has finally screamed her self to death.
Her death was dishonorable; she shall be buried in a clay tunnel.
12th Sandstone, 552
The cook has been entombed in in a simple grave beneath the earth. It seems as if the days are going by without anything of moment to report.
26th Sandstone, 552
Gods above! a monster!
I've heard legends of these creatures, but never did I believe that I would actually meet one. A Man-eater is within range of Mastertea! The military must be mobilized immediately. I'll not stand to have my village destroyed!
28th Sandstone, 552
The diplomat was just killed. What a shame; he never gave me the export agreements.
1st Timber, 552
A soldier and a war dog have been killed. As unfortunate as this is, while the beast was distracted, one of our recruits surprised the beast and has it on the defensive.
2nd Timber, 552
This brave soul is the one that dealt the killing blow on the beast. His bravery is a true testament to this town. I'll see to it that his deed is not forgotten.
Odds bodkins! not again!
Supplementary Entry
More migrants have arrived, and thank goodness they didn't arrive just a few days earlier.
The list is:
1 Animal Trainer
1 Bone Carver
1 Mason
1 Thresher
2 Bowyers
1 Potter
1 Wax Worker
The population is now up to 54 bodies.
13th Timber, 552
This happens far too often these days.
14th Timber, 552
Good gods! the walking trees have returned. They seem awfully accepting of the fact that we practically maimed one of their own.
18th Timber, 552
I met today with the liaison; he seemed unconcerned about the recent attack and the dead former liaison.
23rd Timber, 552
What the hell is going on? In the distance I can see a great forest fire approaching our town! Where it came from I have no idea, but immediate measures must be taken!
26th Timber, 552
Everyone has taken shelter in the tunnels to avoid being burnt to a crisp. Everyone except the mason who refuses to leave the workshop. I feel sorry for him.
27th Timber, 552
Miasma from the rotting tarnish stalk is getting everyone on edge, but it's better than burning to a crisp.
1st Moonstone, 552
The fire has stopped, and just in time for winter. I wonder how such a fire could have started; certainly it could not have been intentional.