DM Alexander Kilcoyne's Sargavan Saga

Game Master Alexander Kilcoyne

"What is this place? Puzzles in Azlant, more magic than you see in a year in Absalom. Wheels literally within wheels. Bound demons and wax golems? The expense must have been enormous. But why? To what end?"

Jakob

Pyramid, Level 1 | Pyramid, Level 2 | Pyramid, Level 3 |


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Female Human (Bonuwat) Cleric 4

Tebati makes an impatient motion with her hands. "The decision is yours," she addresses Albert, "which means that if this is to be another lecture on how hopelessly barbaric the rest of us are without Jakob's benevolent leadership to guide and direct us, I don't have to listen to it this time." She turns her back deliberately and moves away in the direction of Qhude and Unwe.


Male Human Haunted Nature Oracle 4 (Ac 20 Cmd 20 Will+4 Ref+2 Fort+4)

Jakob watches Tebati stalk away. The confusion he feels clearly written on his face.

"Well.... that, was clear. Can I be of further assisstance to you Albert? I fear your passangers will not reach an agreement on this issue. My apologies."


Your Humble Narrator

DM Only:

1d20 + 9 ⇒ (13) + 9 = 22 J
1d20 + 7 ⇒ (2) + 7 = 9 K
1d20 - 1 ⇒ (10) - 1 = 9 N

Albert slowly comes to a decision, speaking to those still present; but primarily addressing Jakob.

Very well Jakob. Their lives will be spared, although in the interest of the safety of this caravan they will be firmly tied up and left at the roadside; I don't trust them with a blade, even a dull one. Theres plenty of merchant traffic so someone will eventually come their way and untie them; or if we're lucky, take them back to Eleder still leashed. I'll be leaving a note next to them explaining that if they are found they are to be handed in at Eleder for a reward. Can you be of further assistance? Take steps to mend the rift in your companionship, Jakob. I'm putting a lot on the line to keep these men alive, especially my career and standing. It bothers us that you are not fully united in purpose; this is not the safest journey at the best of times; and its clear these are not the best of times.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------- -

Unwe looks at Qhude with a mixture of understanding and pity and she places a warm hand on his shoulder in response to his own.

I am sorry he has wounded you so; but does your stoicness and isolation really give him a clue as to understand what he did wrong? Mind-reading is not a skill I attributed to the man. The elf on the other hand...

Cue Tebati arriving.


Female Elf Wizard (Manipulator) 14/Archmage 6 Portrait

Ansha shakes her head, unfolding her arms. She heads across the camp again, returning to the two prisoners. "Good news," she says, lowering her voice a little and smiling, "I managed to convince them not to execute you! But you'll be be left at the roadside when the caravan departs, still tied up. When someone comes by on the road, ask them to free you and then return to Eleder. You should be fine once you're there." She deliberately leaves out the part about a note or a reward.

Bluff: 1d20 + 11 ⇒ (6) + 11 = 17


Male Human (Mwangi - Bas'o tribe) Barbarian (Brutal Pugilist archetype) 4

Qhude withdraws his hand from Unwe's shoulder and massages the knuckles as he remembers their recent pain "Trust me intombi... he knows what he has done."

The arrival of Tebati interrupts his melancholic remembrance. Acknowledging her with a nod "Sangoma"

intombi - young lady


Female Human (Bonuwat) Cleric 4

"Qhude." She forces a smile and nods to Unwe as well. "Don't let me interrupt."


Male Human (Mwangi - Bas'o tribe) Barbarian (Brutal Pugilist archetype) 4

"You are not interrupting, Unwe was just checking upon her stitching... she has closed all of the wounds that she can, leaving but one open..." touching his honor scar as he looks to Unwe to see if she understands the second meaning to his words.


Female Human (Bonuwat) Cleric 4

"How do you and your fellows fare this morning?" Tebati asks Unwe, her eyes examining what can be seen of the mark on the Zenj woman's throat. "Are you as fond of scars as Qhude? I can provide more healing for you and the others if you need it; it would be wiser than depleting your kit. Your supplies will be used up eventually, but my goddess's favors are new every morning." She catches her eye and speaks more quietly. "You are well and conscious this morning; it should not be ... unpleasant."


Your Humble Narrator

The prisoners seem happy with turn of events, although they express sadness at leaving Ansha behind. Ansha suspects their feelings will change as soon as the enchantment wears off.

Unwe seems to understand but still seems a little exasperated. She returns Tebatis's greeting and tells her that she and her fellow soldiers are recovering well, but she has other duties to attend to.

Lets move on, was giving Jakob some time to argue or comment but our pace is lagging somewhat.

1d100 ⇒ 33

1d100 ⇒ 36

1d100 ⇒ 18

Late Evening, 27th of Sarenith, 4711 AR, En Route to Freehold

Obviously your spell selection might have changed ladies, feel free to make changes.

After the captives are left by the roadside the caravan continues on for another two days. The journey continues to be slow and uneventful, although now that your wagon has essentially been trashed you are forced to walk for most of the day alongside it. The summer heat beats down on you mercilessly, but everyone has roughly acclimatised to it over the course of their life or recent months. It doesn't stop it being incredibly unpleasant but none of you pass out from exhaustion; and for much of the day you are able to use the tall wagons as shade.

It has now been five days since you set out from Eleder; according to Jeggare you're making good time and assuming nothing interrupts the journey, you should arrive in Freehold within a couple of days. Despite his initial warnings, you have seen no sign of Bandu raiders despite some rather ominous sections of the (much quieter this far from Eleder) trail where an ambush could potentially be staged. By the light of the evening fire, Jeggare calls for the six of you as well as Albert and his men.

Its too quiet the caravan master begins abruptly, arms folded across his chest. And we're deep into Bandu raiding territory by now. A caravan of this size is likely to be too good an opportunity to pass up a raid on. We've either been lucky enough to completely avoid their notice, which by Shelyn's tits I think unlikely, or we've been spotted and they are gathering greater numbers for an assault on us. I think this is more likely as we've yet to see the worst of the foothills- and I want a plan in place as well as marching positions for all of you.

Jeggare unrolls a piece of parchment, depicting the four wagons on their standard travel formation; spaced out so as to avoid collisions if a wagon gets into trouble.

Jeggare's Drawing

I propose we keep your wagon at the rear Albert, to minimise the risk of losing vital supplies or staff. If the Bandu do attack, it won't be like the last attack. They are more likely to remain stealthy for as long as possible, and it will be a raid, not an attempt to massacre us- unless our resistance is particularly feeble. We'll need to have you all spread out and limit their access to the wagons- because they'll grab whatever looks valuable, be it supplies, weapons or people. Don't expect an honourable fight- they are jackals. So, i'd like input as to our formation. I'll be at the front leading the caravan as always- and if we do get attacked, i'm not stopping the caravan for anyone. Sitting tight and defending is only an invitation for more or them to gather and hit us even harder; its important to keep moving.


Male Human (Mwangi - Bas'o tribe) Barbarian (Brutal Pugilist archetype) 4

After learning that the prisoners were to be left alive, Qhude did not speak up - though it was clear that something preyed on his thoughts. He assisted with making the wagons ready for the journey.

Flextime with Albert:
Within the first hour or two that the wagons are underway Qhude seeks a time when Albert is clear from Jakob and able to be spoken to in relative confidence.

Approaching, he taps a fist to chest as a deferential greeting before speaking "You are induna here, so I will not quarrel your decision openly - nor act without your order. But you are a fool and it is a mistake to leave them alive, without even taking their ability to fight from them. It was weak and will only embolden the enemy."

Despite the harshness of the words, Qhude's tone is even and measured.

Upon the journey Qhude tends to his pelt and continues his practice of ranging around the wagons a short distance to both stretch his legs as well as feel the countryside around them. Often as he ranges, his thoughts stray onto Unwe's words as well as the quarrel with Jakob... however his heart and mind remains yet firm on his views. Jakob is not avoided, but Qhude does not seek to talk to him unless approached first.

Survival: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (8) + 6 = 14 - has Qhude seen any signs to show that they are being ghosted or the way ahead has been scouted?

As Jeggare calls them close to talk of tactics Qhude chooses to remain quiet initially. I know of how to send antelope running from their place of hiding... but rarely have I been the hunted. He listens intently as the discussions begin, so as to weigh their words before providing his own.


Female Human (Bonuwat) Cleric 4

25th of Sarenith, before the caravan departs

DM:
Apprised of the prisoners' fate, Tebati approaches them by the side of the road as the caravan is getting ready to move. Despite their bonds and humiliated state, she pauses briefly to announce herself before moving into their personal space, as she would if she were approaching anyone with respect. "I am not here to ask you to betray any secret," she immediately assures them, squatting down to address them without forcing them to look up at her standing over them. "I am ... displeased to find myself on a course opposed to your own, when I am aware of what you have suffered. Do you truly believe the mission of this caravan to be harmful to your cause?"

Tebati approaches the bound prisoners and speaks with them briefly before the journey resumes. Sometime after the huddled figures of the two men have disappeared into the distance behind the caravan, she drifts close to where Jakob is walking and gives him a significant glance. "If the wild beasts find them, bound and helpless, before any men pass by, what will your 'mercy' have accomplished then? Or if the first merchants to find them are slavers who sell them back to the flesh markets?"

DM Alexander Kilcoyne wrote:


Late Evening, 27th of Sarenith, 4711 AR, En Route to Freehold
Its too quiet the caravan master begins abruptly, arms folded across his chest. And we're deep into Bandu raiding territory by now. A caravan of this size is likely to be too good an opportunity to pass up a raid on. We've either been lucky enough to completely avoid their notice, which by Shelyn's t+!& I think unlikely, or we've been spotted and they are gathering greater numbers for an assault on us. I think this is more likely as we've yet to see the worst of the foothills- and I want a plan in place as well as marching positions for all of you.

Jeggare unrolls a piece of parchment, depicting the four wagons on their standard travel formation; spaced out so as to avoid collisions if a wagon gets into trouble.

I propose we keep your wagon at the rear Albert, to minimise the risk of losing vital supplies or staff. If the Bandu do attack, it won't be like the last attack. They are more likely to remain stealthy for as long as possible, and it will be a raid, not an attempt to massacre us- unless our resistance is particularly feeble. We'll need to have you all spread out and limit their access to the wagons- because they'll grab whatever looks valuable, be it supplies, weapons or people. Don't expect an honourable fight- they are jackals. So, i'd like input as to our formation. I'll be at the front leading the caravan as always- and if we do get attacked, i'm not stopping the caravan for anyone. Sitting tight and defending is only an invitation for more or them to gather and hit us even harder; its important to keep moving.

Tebati listens, her brow creased with concern. "I know nothing of battle tactics," she admits, "but if there is to be fighting, I should be near where lives will be in danger, though this time I hope to stay behind the lines."


Female Elf Wizard (Manipulator) 14/Archmage 6 Portrait

Ansha spends the two days following the ambush walking as little as possible and doing her best to charm the various soldiers and hirelings accompanying the caravan. For someone associated with the party, she seems fairly determined to have connections with everyone "outside" it as well.

When Jeggare calls his conference and shows his plans to those assembled at the campfire, she remains quiet for several moments. Finally, she says, "A fighting withdrawal might be easier than attempting to bull our way through and hope that no one gets left behind. Particularly since most of us are walking now."


Your Humble Narrator
Qhude wrote:

After learning that the prisoners were to be left alive, Qhude did not speak up - though it was clear that something preyed on his thoughts. He assisted with making the wagons ready for the journey.

** spoiler omitted **

Flextime with Qhude:

Albert keeps his normal, level-headed composure and shows little emotional reaction to your accusation. With a wry smile, he walks away, quipping as he leaves-

If you think me a weak fool, your more the fool for obeying my orders, Qhude. Even more so for not adding your voice to the discussion. Good day.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------

Flextime with Tebati:

1d20 + 4 ⇒ (20) + 4 = 24 Diplomacy check on Tebati's behalf with a +2 bonus.

The prisoners look up at you for a time, glancing to each other almost as if speaking without words. One of them speaks eventually, passion reverberating through his voice.

The leaders of the Freemen Brotherhood believe that anything that reinforces or props up a foreign government that enslaves our people is worth our lives to hinder or stop. When others forget the atrocities of Sargava's past and founding, we do not. Whatever lies have been spun to trick or tempt you into serving them, this endeavour you are on will surely lead to more Mwangi suffering. I hope you can live with yourself, priestess.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------

Tebati wrote:


"I know nothing of battle tactics," she admits, "but if there is to be fighting, I should be near where lives will be in danger, though this time I hope to stay behind the lines."

Jeggare snorts.

I'm no tactician myself, but i've been attacked on this route many a time. There won't be "lines of battle" miss Tebati. They will try and spread fire and chaos, to seperate us and to give themselves as many chances as possible to take anything of value. I suggest you place yourself somewhere in the middle of the caravan- your healing prowess will be invaluable if the Bandu become encouraged and think to take the whole caravan.

Ansha wrote:


"A fighting withdrawal might be easier than attempting to bull our way through and hope that no one gets left behind. Particularly since most of us are walking now."

Jeggare shakes his head.

That won't work miss Ansha. Turning these caravans around will take several minutes and will make us even more vulnerable in that time. We won't be moving quickly, but its important to keep moving. I would suggest everyone holing up in wagons with crossbows and spears to hold them off at the entrances; but I've seen that tried once before. Damn Bandu set fire to the wagons, smoked them out.

Jeggare turns to Albert.

Sergeant, Freehold has a reasonable size garrison. It might be putting one of your men on a horse and having them ride ahead; get them to send additional men to escort us. Freehold can take care of itself.

Albert looks sceptical and shakes his head violently.

If these Bandu raids are as fearsome as you say, we'll need every fighting man here to defend the caravab.


Female Elf Wizard (Manipulator) 14/Archmage 6 Portrait
DM Alexander Kilcoyne wrote:

Jeggare shakes his head.

That won't work miss Ansha. Turning these caravans around will take several minutes and will make us even more vulnerable in that time. We won't be moving quickly, but its important to keep moving. I would suggest everyone holing up in wagons with crossbows and spears to hold them off at the entrances; but I've seen that tried once before. Damn Bandu set fire to the wagons, smoked them out.

Ansha shakes her head in return. "No, not turn the wagons around, but a fighting withdrawal toward Freehold--rather than a blind rush."


Your Humble Narrator

Ah... I think your overestimating the speed of our wagons. Theres very little difference between a fighting withdrawal and a blind rush.

In game terms, the wagons have a top speed of about 15 feet.


Male Half-Elf

"So, from what you are saying, there is not much we can do as far as strategy goes," Kieran says with a shrug. "We certainly do not have speed on our side, especially now after the last fight. And the Bandu know this place well enough to set traps and ambushes as they like."

"I am not much of a strategist," the half-elf continues with a sigh, "but I do not think sending someone for reinforcements is such a bad idea, is it?"


Your Humble Narrator

Jeggare looks a little exasperated that people seem to be struggling to engage with the task at hand.

We're talking more of formation, not strategy. I want to know where all of you are meant to be at any given moment- we can't afford any vulnerabilities. We need some kind of perimeter.


Male Human (Mwangi - Bas'o tribe) Barbarian (Brutal Pugilist archetype) 4

Flextime with Albert:
Qhude's hackles rise at the flippant way in which Albert dismisses him and it takes a tangible effort to keep his impulses in check. He does not allow Albert to leave easily, moving to block his path and standing close enough for his breath to warm Albert's face. Through bared teeth he hisses "I am no fool... and neither am I yours to command..." shaking slightly with the effort to restrain himself "I came to you now... warrior to warrior without the honeyed words of the noble to cloud your mind. Jakob knows nothing of war, nothing of the Mwangi, yet you follow his word... why?"

"Look me in the eye as an ibutho and tell me if your decision sits well in your heart." Qhude challenges him and locks his fierce gaze upon Albert's eyes.

ibutho - warrior
I'm guessing Qhude's voice was raised a bit, so it's at your discretion if anyone else overhears this exchange.

Current Time:

Qhude's brow furrows "We cannot outrun anyone in these wagons. If one wagon continues to roll while the others are beset, surely that will just make it easier prey? We stand best chance by staying together. Could the line be made as though a pack and not elephants in line?" indicating that the wagons could be in two rows of two, rather than a long single column. "Should we not also be sending scouts to range further ahead of the wagon than we have so far? We cannot move as a sloth slowly along his branch without raising a head to see what is afore and behind?"

Taking a few heavy breaths before continuing "Jeggare, you say that they will likely feel us out as prey first with a raid before committing to full attack? If so, we must show that we are not weak" sending a glare towards Albert "and repel them with all force and brutality we can muster... The Bandu deal in flesh, and we must make the price of our own too high for them to bear."


Male Half-Elf

"Ah, formation and positioning, yes," Kieran quips with a smile and then a wink. "Why did you not simply say so from the start?"

Before Jeggare answers, however, he quickly concludes. "Then I suppose somewhere in the front would be a good position for me. I can hold my own in a fight, I should think, and my eyes are sharper than most. Perhaps I will be able to warn us in time of any... mischief up ahead?"

"I could also scout a bit ahead, I suppose, though I am more accustomed to cities and streets rather that jungles and trees."


Your Humble Narrator

Flextime with Qhude:

Albert raises an eyebrow at Qhude, standing his ground and still showing little signs of tension, in contrast to Qhude's tightly wound and tense body.

I think I took your insult in my stride. Its obvious that you are quick to critiscize sir, but have a problem when its directed your way instead. Before you take it upon yourself to beat me senseless for my words, please consider we're in dangerous territory. Your shaman will not thank you for taking a toll on her ability to heal.

Studying Qhude warily, its obvious that Albert has tensed up a little himself, letting the floodgates of his emotions open a crack. Hes ready for a physical confrontation if it comes down to it.

What do you want me to say Qhude? Would you feel better if I told you I am of old Sargavan blood and think of Mwangi as little more than savages? That I listen to Jakob because of the colour of his skin and the legacy of nobility that spawned him? None of these things are true, but I have little doubt you've considered them.

Why did I follow Jakob's suggestion? He convinced me with his reasoned argument. I am loathe to kill unless I must- especially captives. Your voice however, was absent. The decision does sit well with me, as a matter of fact. It was not a situation that I could make an easy choice on- but Jakob's thoughts helped me listen to my heart. I would have regretted sending them to the Boneyard. Yours were not even spoken.

Now, with your permission ibutho, I have duties to attend to. May I pass? Don't you have enough drama with Jakob, that you don't need more with me?

---------------------------------------------------------------------------

Qhude wrote:


Qhude's brow furrows "We cannot outrun anyone in these wagons. If one wagon continues to roll while the others are beset, surely that will just make it easier prey? We stand best chance by staying together. Could the line be made as though a pack and not elephants in line?" indicating that the wagons could be in two rows of two, rather than a long single column.

Jeggare responds-

Not a bad idea but the roads too narrow. We'll need to remain in this formation the whole journey and it will make the wagons even slower. We'd be adding an extra day until we get to Freehold at best, and Shelyn forbid we throw a wheel on the foothills. Sorry bruiser, good suggestion but not feasible. We could group the wagons closer together but I thought 30 feet was a reasonable distance.

Qhude wrote:


"Should we not also be sending scouts to range further ahead of the wagon than we have so far? We cannot move as a sloth slowly along his branch without raising a head to see what is afore and behind?"

Good, good. A forward and a rear scout would be a prudent safety measure. What kind of distance are you thinking of?

Albert interrupts, addressing the six of you.

It will have to be one of you. My men are better suited to guarding the caravan itself, and our armours too heavy to act as scouts. Who among you is suitable? Kieran, are you volunteering for forward scout?

Albert takes the conversation back briefly to the issue of reinforcements.

For similar reasons, none of us will be particularly suited to gather reinforcements. If one of you wishes to leave and ride ahead to Freehold to do so, I will not stop you. Nor will I, however, condone sending one of the civilians in your stead. Whoever goes needs to be able to handle themselves.


Male Human (Mwangi - Bas'o tribe) Barbarian (Brutal Pugilist archetype) 4

Flextime with Albert:
Qhude's initial response to Albert's words is a subvocal growl. He holds Albert's gaze for a few moments with tense and taut muscles as he silently judges his response. With tangible and noticeable effort, Qhude measures his words "If this sits well in your heart, then it is not hard enough." He then steps aside to allow Albert passage.

As Albert moves away, Qhude adds without turning to face him "If it did come to blows between us, you would not be in need of a healer... as you would be dead." Qhude then walks away from Albert steadily without turning his head to see any reaction that Albert had to the words.

After his discussion with Albert on the first day of travel after the night attack - Qhude distances himself from all in the wagons, remaining within sight but always away from the wagons and not within. At times, the telltale trail of flayleaf smoke can be seen rising...
Addiction Fort Save: 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (6) + 5 = 11 - minor addiction, -2 penalty to Con. Profile is up to date.
27th Saerinth - Fort Save vs Addiction: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (13) + 4 = 17 - saved, need another success tomorrow to get rid of addiction.

--------------------

Qhude responds to Albert "N'bellocq and myself would be best suited to range free of the caravan, though Kieran would also be an able scout." before turning to Kieran "No offense brother, but we could better read the land to see what it might say"


Your Humble Narrator

Qhude:

Albert doesn't seem a man easily cowed- but he doesn't say anything as you walk off. The way he interacts with you over the past couple of days has remained unchanged despite the incident, as though it was beneath his notice.

What say you N'bellocq? Albert asks, seeking to establish who will be scouting and where.


Female Human (Bonuwat) Cleric 4

DM AK:
25th of Sarenith, before the caravan departs

DM Alexander Kilcoyne wrote:
The leaders of the Freemen Brotherhood believe that anything that reinforces or props up a foreign government that enslaves our people is worth our lives to hinder or stop. When others forget the atrocities of Sargava's past and founding, we do not. Whatever lies have been spun to trick or tempt you into serving them, this endeavour you are on will surely lead to more Mwangi suffering. I hope you can live with yourself, priestess.

The corners of her mouth twitch upward in a sad smile. "I hope the same," she tells him quietly. "I find myself in a strange position, with those I never expected to call allies. I am a stranger in Sargava, but were it my homeland under the sway of the colonials ... my heart persuades me that, right or wrong, I would be fighting on the side you have chosen. Tell me: If you were to succeed and break the government of Sargava, what would you do with the foreigners? Kill them all? Put them on boats back to the land of their ancestors? Turn the tables and enslave them in your own fields? Would there be a place in the land of the Freemen for those of fair skin?"


Male Human (Ijo) Monk 4 (Zen Archer)

N'bellocq stands apart as is his custom. Unless addressed, he finds the quick banter uncomfortable or irrelevent. But upon hearing his name, he steps forward.

"If Kieran is unfamiliar with the Jungle, it would perhaps be best to let it fall to me to scout. Or have him come with me, if he can be spared, so I might help him learn. The Jungle teaches hard lessons, and it would be best for the caravan that he not learn them on his own with the fate of the caravan at risk."


Male Half-Elf
Qhude wrote:
Qhude responds to Albert "N'bellocq and myself would be best suited to range free of the caravan, though Kieran would also be an able scout." before turning to Kieran "No offense brother, but we could better read the land to see what it might say"

"None taken, Qhude," Kieran replies with a smile and a small bow of his head. "Were we in a city, I might be willing to make a competition out of this, perhaps with a little wager on the side. But I would be the first to agree that this is more your domain than mine."

"My considerable ability as a ne'er-do-well, or rather scout that is, notwithstanding," he adds with a soft and mirthful chuckle. "Acting in the role of an additional sword-arm guarding the caravan is fine by me." As he finishes, his eyes move to regard Tebati, his expression a clear enough indication that it is her more than the supplies he will be keeping his guard up for.

"As for that lesson, I will be sure to take you up on it, N'bellocq, but I should think it would be best if it were during a more relaxed time, yes?"


Female Human (Bonuwat) Cleric 4
Qhude wrote:
After his discussion with Albert on the first day of travel after the night attack - Qhude distances himself from all in the wagons, remaining within sight but always away from the wagons and not within. At times, the telltale trail of flayleaf smoke can be seen rising...

Tebati has also seemed somewhat withdrawn and distracted since the encounter with the Freemen Brotherhood, although whether that has to do with her brush with mortality, the rift with Jakob, or something else entirely is unclear....

27th of Sarenith, daytime, before Jeggare calls his meeting

After two days of Qhude's pointed absence from the company, Tebati decides he has had enough time to himself, especially considering the aroma of flayleaf that clings to what little clothing he wears. Squeezing Kieran's hand, she gives him a smile over her shoulder as she veers away from the caravan to approach Qhude on its outskirts. When she is close enough to speak without shouting, she takes a parallel track to his, keeping pace without approaching any nearer before being invited. "Qhude," she nods to the sullen man respectfully.

---------

Late Evening, 27th of Sarenith, 4711 AR, En Route to Freehold

Tebati's eyes flicker to Kieran with trepidation when he suggests his services as forward scout and seems relieved when his offer is turned down. "These Bandu -- they are slavers as well as thieves?" she asks soberly. No Knowledge (local) so I assume she doesn't know anything about the peoples of the region and the threats they may pose


Female Elf Wizard (Manipulator) 14/Archmage 6 Portrait

Ansha shrugs, leaving the discussion of formation to others. Only Tebati's question really takes her interest, and she tries to recall what she knows of the region herself. Knowledge (local) (untrained) :1d20 + 4 ⇒ (1) + 4 = 5; Knowledge (nature) : 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (10) + 8 = 18


Male Human Haunted Nature Oracle 4 (Ac 20 Cmd 20 Will+4 Ref+2 Fort+4)

Flex-time with Tebati on the 25'th:

Tebati wrote:
"If the wild beasts find them, bound and helpless, before any men pass by, what will your 'mercy' have accomplished then? Or if the first merchants to find them are slavers who sell them back to the flesh markets?"

"Why do you find fault with me for other people's choices? I would have simply let them go. This was not my responsibility. I argued that they should be freed to continue their lives, others argued that they should be killed out of hand. Albert made a choice. He made a bad one but it was his to make. If you disagree then here." Jacob draws a dagger and presents it handle first to the priestess "We are not too far from their tree. You should be able to find the caravan again once you choose to free or kill them. I am short of dice at the moment but I have a spare copper if you need help making up your mind."

25th to the 27th

Jakob walks steadily and silently, keeping pace with the wagons. He is silent at mealtimes eating little and without comment. The only time he seems anything near at peace is when he pauses to watch the wind or listen to the dawn chorus.

meeting on the 27'th

"I know nothing of the Bandu and their ways but can they not be reasoned with? You say we are in their territory, well could we not hire a band or two as escort? Or at least make a show of giving their chief tribute to allow us passage? However I know little of military matters and defer to your experience.


Female Human (Bonuwat) Cleric 4

Jakob, 25th of Sarenith:
She ignores the proferred weapon. "Why do you find fault with everyone else for their own choices? Why are you even here, Jakob, making a hazardous journey to a place you do not wish to go with people you dislike on behalf of a government you distrust? I have known you three weeks, and yet I know you not at all, save that everyone around you is a constant disappointment to you."


Male Human (Mwangi - Bas'o tribe) Barbarian (Brutal Pugilist archetype) 4

Flextime with Tebati - 27th before the meeting:

As she draws close to Qhude, Tebati is able to see that the Bas'o is slick with sweat and has a paleness to his face. He replies without turning "Sangoma"

At the meeting proper:

"As you say, you know nothing of the Bandu. The only tribute they are likely to accept would be flesh. You would have done better to bite your tongue rather than speak where you should not." Qhude spits at Jakob with a dismissive tone. "Unless you are willing to sell those beneath you into slavery or death..." adding to himself in thought as you did with the men of the ship you sailed into the jaws of Eleder.


Female Human (Bonuwat) Cleric 4

Flextime with Qhude - 27th before the meeting:

She takes the greeting as invitation enough to draw near him. "You are unwell." Her voice is quiet but carries an edge. "You have let yourself grow weak, and when you are weak, we are all more vulnerable. What has driven you to old habits?"


Male Human (Mwangi - Bas'o tribe) Barbarian (Brutal Pugilist archetype) 4

Flextime with Tebati - 27th before the meeting:

Qhude does not deny Tebati's statement, and replies as he continues to trudge with eyes forward though slightly downward "I am fine... the sweat will pass... it always does." chewing his words before continuing "I feel as an inyoni riding an imvubu, pecking at it's skin. Tolerated for the job that I do, but nothing more..."

"He who calls himself induna to these soldiers prefers the honeyed counsel of a pampered child then that of an ibutho." spitting upon the ground as he finishes the sentence.

inyoni - bird
imvubu - hippo
ibutho - warrior


Your Humble Narrator
Tebati wrote:
** spoiler omitted **

Flextime with Prisoners:

We would break their power over the land and our people. Our leaders do not wish slavery on anyone and there are so few of the colonials that it would barely be worth our time. We will drive them out with blood and fire, and those who wish to flee on their boats can do so...

Once this is done, we can make Sargava a strong, Mwangi nation. A coalition of different tribes, united only in our purpose to keep our independence. No Mwangi would have to toil for a Chelish, any more.

May you wear your chains lightly the speaker says as a goodbye.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------

Qhude, enough. Jeggare says sharply in reprimand. I did not mock you for your own ignorant suggestion.

He moves on, his voice taking on an educating tone.

The Bandu are part of the Bekyar tribe- they are named after the Bandu Hills in which we travel. They frequently raid Sargavan settlements; and whether your a Mwangi or Colonial theres little distinction for them; they are slavers and demon worshippers. Every few years the military launches an assault on them but they just melt away into the hills, allowing the military their victory and then coming back in force as soon as they pull out of the region. The captives they do not sell to the Ombo (Tebati may know more of them than I about the Ombo) they sacrifice to their demons.


Female Human (Bonuwat) Cleric 4

DM, flextime with prisoners:
25th of Sarenith, before the caravan departs

Tebati appears shaken by the prisoner's valediction but replies quietly, "I wish you fair winds and and a swift journey to safe harbor." As she raises her holy symbol to bless them, she calls on Shimye-Magalla for a modicum of healing for the two. Channel Positive Energy 1d6 ⇒ 2 "The soldiers are leaving a missive, offering a reward for your return to the authorities in Eleder. You know better than I what fate may wait you there. If you cannot free yourselves from your bonds, perhaps you can at least destroy the note. May it be your own people who find you and show you mercy." When she has finished speaking in a rapid whisper, she nods in farewell, gets to her feet, and walks away.

Late Evening, 27th of Sarenith, 4711 AR, En Route to Freehold

Jeggare aka DM AK wrote:

The Bandu are part of the Bekyar tribe- they are named after the Bandu Hills in which we travel. They frequently raid Sargavan settlements; and whether your a Mwangi or Colonial theres little distinction for them; they are slavers and demon worshippers. Every few years the military launches an assault on them but they just melt away into the hills, allowing the military their victory and then coming back in force as soon as they pull out of the region. The captives they do not sell to the Ombo (Tebati may know more of them than I about the Ombo) they sacrifice to their demons.

"N'bellocq knows the Ombo better than any of us," she says grimly, her eyes going to her cousin's face.


Male Human Haunted Nature Oracle 4 (Ac 20 Cmd 20 Will+4 Ref+2 Fort+4)

Tebati 25th.:
Jakob sheathes the knife. "Perhaps I journey to find someone or somewhere that will not disappoint, or perhaps to find out exactly how wrong I am. Always a useful thing to know, don't you think?"


Female Human (Bonuwat) Cleric 4

Jakob 25th:
Tebati lets out a mirthless chuckle. "Even if you were to accept that you were wrong, it would only be because reality itself had failed to measure up to your standards. What is most useful, Jakob, is not to walk alone. One man alone will never accomplish more than to cast judgment on all around him without making a difference. If a man can make common cause with others, together they may force the world to change to meet their expectations. The Sargavan army is one example," she nods toward Albert and his men, "the Freemen Brotherhood, another. Neither may triumph in reshaping the world in their own mold, but at least they are doing more than sitting back discontentedly and bemoaning the darkness." She shakes her head. "Perhaps you cannot find a true ally among us -- although you are certain not to, as long as you continue to make a point of avoiding everyone -- but can you not bend enough to make common cause on some point of agreement for as long as our courses lie together?"


Male Human (Ijo) Monk 4 (Zen Archer)

Late Evening, 27th of Sarenith, 4711 AR, En Route to Freehold

"I know the Ombo......" N'bellocq lets that hang a moment. "If the Bandu treat with them. We should expect nothing better than to be seen as money to them....or a crop to be harvested."

He turns and looks out toward the jungle, "Have no fear, the first sign of people I come across on the march, I will assume the worst and alert the caravan. Let us be surprised by friendliness but prepared for violence."


Male Human Haunted Nature Oracle 4 (Ac 20 Cmd 20 Will+4 Ref+2 Fort+4)

Tebati 25th.:
When have I not bent to make common cause? Please delineate my sins so I can correct them. I argued against killing prisoners but I accepted their probable death at the teeth of scavengers because buying them a few more hours and a slim hope was all I could do over strong opposition. Was this wrong?
I was given land and a title for reasons I do not pretend to understand. I tried to share it with you, under the same conditions that applied to me and in the only way the powers would allow. Was this wrong?
I risked my life, and only my life, on a foolish gamble that somehow worked. Was this wrong?
Please Tebati, name my crime and what I can do to expiate it.
Or would you prefer that I simply make no choices on my own. I could defer all questions to Qhude and simply stand about being decorative. Would you prefer that?"[/b]


Female Human (Bonuwat) Cleric 4

Flextime with Qhude - 27th before the meeting:

Qhude wrote:

Qhude does not deny Tebati's statement, and replies as he continues to trudge with eyes forward though slightly downward "I am fine... the sweat will pass... it always does." chewing his words before continuing "I feel as an inyoni riding an imvubu, pecking at it's skin. Tolerated for the job that I do, but nothing more..."

"He who calls himself induna to these soldiers prefers the honeyed counsel of a pampered child then that of an ibutho." spitting upon the ground as he finishes the sentence.

"And you are surprised?" she shrugs. "Who among the colonials has ever seen worth in you, except insofar as he thought your strength would serve his purposes?" She reaches out and lightly touches his sweat-sheened arm with her fingers. "Albert is nothing," she tells him. "He is part of this crew and performs his own duties, but when we arrive at our destination, General Morvius swore to meet us there. Your words carry weight with him, and he is superior to Albert. There are many who discount my voice because I am a Mwangi and a woman, but their blindness does not change my worth." She laughs. "The Grand Custodian himself sought my counsel; why should I let my spirit be crushed by any of his subjects?"


Female Human (Bonuwat) Cleric 4

Jakob 25th:
She sighs. "It is not your actions but your manner that expresses the contempt you hold for the rest of us. When someone ventures a different course of action than the one you favor, you react as if he had suggested we all take up cannibalism. You go to great lengths never to speak to any of us except as you are forced to, viewing us only as resources to be tapped rather than people to be known or befriended. A disagreement among friends is a small matter, only one of many interactions upon which their friendship is built, but you speak to people only to disagree with them; disagreement is the whole structure of your relationship with us, when you make no effort to be agreeable on trivial matters." She shakes her head, trying to explain. "In your eyes, to pass the time of day or remark on the weather or the roughness of the road may be irrelevant, a waste of breath; in our eyes, it makes you a person like the rest of us, one who can smile and joke and commiserate, as well as condemn and argue, one whose judgment we are more likely to look upon favorably than if your voice is heard only in opposition."


Male Human Haunted Nature Oracle 4 (Ac 20 Cmd 20 Will+4 Ref+2 Fort+4)

Tebati 25th:

"And you think my comments on the beauty that surrounds us or on the eye-watering stench coming off the amateur taxidermy projects would be received? I'd be lucky to just be snapped at and blamed for a world I did nothing to create. I say the wrong thing to Qhude and I will be pulling my teeth out of the back of my neck.
Social exile is safer.
And just to be clear I do not view you as resources. I view you as people who have clearly expressed a desire to be free of my company so I try to inflict as little of it upon you as I can. Am I wrong in this?"


Female Human (Bonuwat) Cleric 4

Jakob 25th:
She shrugs. "You are right that Qhude will likely never forgive you for not being what he expected you to be. As for the rest of us, Kieran has always championed you, and yet the only time you have spoken to him on this journey was to express horror at what you see as his barbarism. I approached you to offer what I thought might be welcome counsel after your experience on the ship, and you mocked my faith. N'bellocq harbors no ill will against anyone, save perhaps the slavers who stole his youth, and I do not believe you have ever directly addressed him. Ansha ... keeps her own counsel. You must do what is right in your own eyes, but if you avoid everyone because you have already judged you will never make allies, you fulfill your own prophecy."


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Male Human Haunted Nature Oracle 4 (Ac 20 Cmd 20 Will+4 Ref+2 Fort+4)

Tebati 25th:
Jakob listens carefully. "Yes, I see that. Thank you. I must see what I can do to improve as time goes on."


Female Human (Bonuwat) Cleric 4

Jakob 25th:
She offers him a small smile, surprised that he appears to be considering her words. "Qhude expresses himself the most loudly of all of us, but we are not all Qhude. And I hope that we have the capacity to embrace both your perspective and his, albeit perhaps at the very opposite margins of the party. The more eyes through which we can see, the wiser our judgments will be." She reaches, a bit tentatively, to touch his arm companionably. "You may never be the 'induna' he is looking for, but your prowess in battle impressed him," she confides.


Male Human (Mwangi - Bas'o tribe) Barbarian (Brutal Pugilist archetype) 4

Flextime with Qhude - 27th before the meeting:

Qhude scoffs quietly as though skeptical that anything will change when they reach their target, or that Morvious respects him. He remembers the concerned glance the General sent his way on the day they left Eleder "We will see..." continuing to trudge along though brow furrowed slightly more in thought.

Present Time - Meeting with Jeggare:

Qhude nods in satisfaction when N'bellocq agrees to scout "If you range ahead, I will look to our back."


Male Human Haunted Nature Oracle 4 (Ac 20 Cmd 20 Will+4 Ref+2 Fort+4)

Tebati 25th:
Jakob sputters with laughter. [b]"My prowess in battle! A fool ran into my spear and the forest frightened a couple of others. Don't tell Qhude, but it was all luck and blind panic. I doubt events will play out so well again."
"Maybe I should talk to him and apologize for everything I can think of while he still thinks I can fight. You are closer to him than I am. Any hints on translating what I mean to say into words that he can hear?"


Female Human (Bonuwat) Cleric 4

Present Time - Meeting with Jeggare:

Qhude wrote:
Qhude nods in satisfaction when N'bellocq agrees to scout "If you range ahead, I will look to our back."

"One ahead, one behind," Tebati agrees, moving her hand over Jeggare's diagram. "That leaves the four of us. You wish the soldiers to remain with the hindmost wagon?" she asks Jeggare. "If an attack comes from the fore, you will be alone until they are able to come forward to defend you."


Your Humble Narrator

Jeggare draws Qhude at the very back of the diagram and N'bellocq at the very front. Albert proposes a formation for his men and Jeggare draws their positions on his drawing.

Two of us at the rear caravan, two at the front, one on the left flank of the second caravan and one on the right flank of the third. This leaves no particular areas of vulnerability and provides a basic perimeter for the remainder your party to build on. he finishes, addressing Tebati with his last few words.

Caravan Formation (sorry for size)


Female Human (Bonuwat) Cleric 4

"I do not like it," Tebati says, her brow creased with concern as she surveys the drawing. "Too many people standing alone. If they come with the numbers you fear and focus on a single wagon and its guard, any one of us could be carried away in the confusion with no one to defend us, and my protective spells will be useless with the group so scattered." She glances across at Kieran. "Ansha will need protection. She cannot face a charge alone." She looks back up at Jeggare. "I have no interest in 'building upon' your perimeter. You may fight to the death to protect your wagons and supplies, if you choose, but I would far rather lose a wagon than one of my companions. I propose that the rest of us travel as a group. We are stronger together than separated."


Your Humble Narrator

Jeggare nods.

Fair enough, miss. Well, Albert's spoken for his men. While I agree they are a little spread out, we can't afford to leave any gaps because they will be swiftly exploited. Where do you propose yourself, Ansha, Kieran and Jakob be positioned then Tebati? If you insist on travelling close together I still recommend somewhere in the centre; so you can easily reinforce any area coming under heavy attack.

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