Arasmes hearing the accents of Katapesh upon the newcomers tongue, steps forward and says politely in Osiriani. يكون في سهولة صديق لأننا يعني انك لا ضرر.
Arasmes is a stunningly handsome man of obvious Katapeshi descent judging by his clothing and gear. He has a brilliant white smile and lustrous black hair. He has a hand resting upon Caliphana and you notice what looks like a similar rune peeking beneath his head wrap. Along his bare forearms you see what look like tattoos of barbed chains in silver and black. Oddly they seem to never be in exactly the same place when you look, almost as if they change when you are not gazing directly at them. He wears a pair of dark goggles around his neck. His most striking feature are his eyes which are pupiless orbs of blackness. It is obvious that if he is human as he appears...he is not wholly so.
Arasmes hearing the accents of Katapesh upon the newcomers tongue, steps forward and says politely in Osiriani. يكون في سهولة صديق لأننا يعني انك لا ضرر. ** spoiler omitted ** Switching back to the common tongue he says You mentioned that this hive of scum and villainy you escaped from had slaves "not of the usual sort." What did you mean by that? Realizing he had not introduced himself he quickly says Forgive me I am Arasmes ibn'Fayad and this is Caliphana He gestures towards a large dragon like creature of the purest white with a blaze of bright blue fur almost like blue fire running down her back. Hard plates, somewhat like overlapping scales, cover her body and move with the muscle rippling beneath. She has a slightly glowing purple rune upon her brow.
Arasmes is a stunningly handsome man of obvious Katapeshi descent judging by his clothing and gear. He has a brilliant white smile and lustrous black hair. He has a hand resting upon Caliphana and you notice what looks like a similar rune peeking beneath his head wrap. Along his bare forearms you see what look like tattoos of barbed chains in silver and black. Oddly they seem to never be in exactly the same place when you look, almost as if they change when you are not gazing directly at them. He wears a pair of dark goggles around his neck. His most striking feature are his eyes which are pupiless orbs of blackness. It is obvious that if he is human as he appears...he is not wholly so.
Yillim regards the new man for a second or so, appearing to size him up and glances over at the woman with the snakelike features for just an instant.
Yes. Men that were not men. Or perhaps were formerly men. Some with the likeness of beasts, and lizards...some even touched as though by death itself, although death would no doubt be a mercy to them.
Redirecting his attention to the apparent leader of the group, he turns to the woman with the platinum hair, absently resting oneof his left hands on the pommel of a long sword with a hook-like blade at his side.
I would indeed join you, if you would have me, for I wish to revenge myself upon my former captors, a foul man named Lutharo in particular, but I fear I cannot do it alone. Perhaps if I am able to aid you in finding these cultists and bringing them to justice, you can aid me in bringing down my foes?
Yillims gaze slowly moves across the small group now, passing from one person to another, and lingers for a short moment on the half elf and her wolf, but quickly turns back to the leader.
"These beast men sound like the ones portrayed in Lencher's journals and the one called Amun", she says to Arasmes.
To the newcomer she elaborates, "There was once a man who worked with the Osirions to create new species of warriors, those who would do the bidding of masters. Lencher was a man of science but black of heart. We are only beginning to see the extent of his perversity."
"Yillim, you mentioned a man named Lutharo. Can you tell us more about him? It would do good to have a clearer picture of this new adversary."
At this time Brett trots up to the party on his pony, with Galen riding behind, his hat cocked at a jaunty angle, while Param rides on the brim, watching things from the little box.
When Brett rides up he pauses, watching all with a careful examination – staring hard at the newcomer.
”Huh – sorry – I’m late – had a bit o’ work to do back there with them basterds,” he adds to no one in particular.
”Meantime – here’s the thing, as I reckon it – we got a heap o’ trouble back yonder. We all be ‘feared o’ our ol’ pal Kazeem? Well – reckon on he’s dead – or near enough. But what be strong enough to kill him, eh? What be strong enough to wipe out all them cultists?” he adds, glancing at the party.
Kicking his pony up closer to the new person, he stares hard and obviously at him; his ears perking up at the mention of Lencher.
”Huh – well – at the least ye be talking on lots o’ strange things – but never mind all that – what the hell kind of race are ye to be having four arms, eh?” he adds, somewhat to Dross, somewhat to himself.
He peers closer at the pale flesh – looking at the sickly pulse of dark colors running nearly green through the veins.
”Oye – Ry lass – you recall Lencher be trying to mix body parts and blood with folk?” he adds to the Baroness as Anaitis sits on her horse, close by, watching the southerner, while Galen, seeing everything – works exceptionally hard at pasting a forced look of nonchalance on his 14 year old features - a look which fools no one that that bothers to take the time to look at him.
”Ye reckon this lad be mixed somehow?” Brett adds.
”Ah – pardon me, bub – don’t mean to be disrespectful or nothing – but, ah – we’ve had a bit of rum luck here, and I’m all out sorts, as were.”
”Ani – why not ride back to Drake – er… Deputy Mayor Tyrell, and tell him to hurry things up, and get that list o’ findings made fast.” he adds.
Anaitis stiffens a bit at the name “Ani” – but salutes with her hand to her breast, and turns her horse and rides off back to the others.
”Say now – ye be a southern lad, eh? That is to say, ye got the lingo of southern folk, I reckon - but yer skin look a mite too pale, if ye’ll pardon me fer saying. Anyhow - how the hell ye get so far north?” he adds, looking at the newcomer.
”Oh yeah,” he says, looking over the essentially gearless person in front of him ”Ye look like ye maybe rode hard – here – how ‘bout a bite, eh?” he adds, reaching into his saddle bag and tossing the stranger an apple.
”Oh – and fer yer beastie there,” he adds also – pulling out a lump of salt pork and tossing a shank to the wolf.
”Don’t mind me – I love pups – even big ones – still; that be a big son o’ a buck, too. But ye be saying hash on Lencher... Meantime – ye got four bloody arms or I’m a bloody Tiefling, nay offense – and yer skin be pale as milk with green lines where the blood should be pumping all wholesome through – well, what the hell happened to ye, mate? Oh – and, ah - ye need a drink – a smoke? Better yet, why not ride back to the rest o’ the crew north there – and talk while we’re all riding, heh?” he adds in a amiable tone.
To all: Yeah – same question for you guys too; that is – what is your next move?
Lia notices the male's eyes set on her briefly. She stands from her crouched position beside Revion and walks to Yillim, closing the distance between them. She pushes her nose near his, taking in his scent, noting his physical difference beneath the cloak. Her light green eyes impale him with their boldness. "What creature are you?" Though her words are low and direct, they are not meant in disrespect nor is she repudiating him for his form. Lia is merely curious for she has not seen one such as him in the course of her travels.
At the same time, Revion moves to the seated giant black wolf and pushes his muzzle closer to the other, smelling him, learning him. Revion's gold eyes are directly fixed on the other wolf's, an unspoken declaration flowing between them, alpha to alpha.
Her Holbyt friend and councilman certainly had no knack for subtlety.
Quietly to him,
"Brett, it appears that Yillim is a product of Lencher's experiments. The information in his journals did not pinpoint all the forms he experimented with. And I did not imagine the longevity of his experiments -- I believed it was simply within this year or two, yet it may have been going on much longer than we ever imagined. How many have been created? And what if the creature that destroyed al-Kazeem and his followers is one of Lencher's more significant experiments? He was certainly searching for dragon's blood."
"These beast men sound like the ones portrayed in Lencher's journals and the one called Amun", she says to Arasmes.
To the newcomer she elaborates, "There was once a man who worked with the Osirions to create new species of warriors, those who would do the bidding of masters. Lencher was a man of science but black of heart. We are only beginning to see the extent of his perversity."
"Yillim, you mentioned a man named Lutharo. Can you tell us more about him? It would do good to have a clearer picture of this new adversary."
Pulling back his hood, Yillim is indeed quite dirty from constant travel. With a slight frown, he wipes some of the road from his forehead and bats at a twitching movement from behind his ear.
I don't recall hearing this "Lencher" person's name, but no doubt he and Lutharo are connected somehow. Lotharo was a northman, that I'm sure, for his manner and dress were not of my people.
Yillim frowns
I could not forget his face, his armor. Upon it was a crest, that of a scarlet wyvern.
As the half elf approaches him, sussing him out as an animal would, he seems to be ready to offer her his hand, as if she were actually a beast, but remember himself and quickly pulls it back into place.
flatly he replies to her inquiry and to that of the halfling
I am a man. Or at least I was born one. The man I spoke of, he orchestrated my transformation. And many others, i'd wager.
With trained reflexes, he catches the apple offered to him by the halfling. Immediately biting into the fruit and nodding back to its provider.
My thanks. It has been ages since i've tasted anything sweet, and I'm sure blackfang will enjoy that meat.
I would surely join you back with your people, If indeed they are as calm-headed as you all seem to be.
and again he looks over at the snake woman, now a bit further away.
...but i think perhaps I will run back with you, and give Blackfang a bit of rest, let his back feel the air.
He looks over at the larger wolf, and notices the smaller one investigating the situation.
Blackfang gobbles the pork and huffs a bit at Revion, then quickly and almost playfully throws out a paw.
Yillim retrieves his lance from the spot where he left it, sticking in the ground, and tightens his pack and the wooden shield strapped there, showing that he is ready to move.
At this, Blackfang stretches his maw wide in a yawn and lifts himself from the ground, jingling a bit from the modest amount of gear hanging from his fine chain armor.
Turning to the party remaining beside the corpses of al-Kazeem and his acolytes, Isani lifts her eyes to the sky, a cautious move to ensure no powerful flying creature is lurking, waiting to strike their party with force from above.
"I do not want to draw undue attention but once we have checked the bodies, claimed what is there, we must burn all the bodies. The smoke will certainly be visible across this plain and in the sky, yet we cannot leave the bodies like this. Conducting proper funeral rites is not possible as the sun is sinking and I am unfamiliar with the Black Kota's particular burial rituals." To Mister Tyrell she defers, as leader of this mission.
Damn the Scarlet Wyvern crest! These Northmen were proving to be quite the nuisance in their lands. I worry they will take over lands we have claimed and cause chaos and strife throughout Praxis.
"Yillim, the people of the capital are wide and varied. Some are more superstitious and distrusting than others who have travelled and seen much and accept that the world is a strange place indeed. I cannot guarantee you shall be received well or calmly by all in the land but I offer the Council's support and protection to you and will hope others will follow our lead. To command others to accept mindlessly perpetuates strife, I find. Each of us have found our feet in Praxis and I believe that you shall as well, given the circumstances and with time. Now, let us ride back to Robert Tyrell and the others. There is not much sunlight left this day and we have other matters to consider and plan."
Her Holbyt friend and councilman certainly had no knack for subtlety.
Quietly to him,
"Brett, it appears that Yillim is a product of Lencher's experiments. The information in his journals did not pinpoint all the forms he experimented with. And I did not imagine the longevity of his experiments -- I believed it was simply within this year or two, yet it may have been going on much longer than we ever imagined. How many have been created? And what if the creature that destroyed al-Kazeem and his followers is one of Lencher's more significant experiments? He was certainly searching for dragon's blood."
"Well - that be right possible, lass - true enough - but remember; Lencher be only working fer others - he worked with them Southron folk - and this lad be Southron, too - though I think he not from the same place... His accent be a mite westerly, I reckon."
Brett is currently urging his pony northward to the others while he talks - hoping the rest of the company is also moving north.
"Meantime - I don't know nothing 'bout dragon blood - but I do recall something on troll blood... And anyhow - how'd he get four arms? That ain't right - not by a long shot... But troll's got green blood; remember them scum we cut down near Oleg's place?"
"And I don't mind taking him along, as were - but what about his pup? That be a big 'un - who knows - maybe it got 'sperimented on, too, eh?"
"While I'm at it - it be pushing near 7:15 - 7:30 - and it be about 6 hours or so back to town on a good ride. Maybe we ought to set up camp and talk a piece - see what the others done found out..."
He rubs his chin, considering things.
"I tell ye what lass - I don't know Kazeem like ye did - didn't ye meet with the bugger? What manner o' man was he? I mean to say - I reckon on him being like me lass Ani - but the thing is - is he magi - priest, or something else more nasty? I mean - they got powers - but what were yer thoughts when ye sat with him? Ye think he was tough - or am I upset over naught but hash on that account?"
"Oh yeah - I got Drake searching the remains - trying to find if them be drugged or something - I'd rather take any of them that were home to their kinfolk north for a decent burial, if they had any. What do ye say? Ye want to lend a hand on that account - ye know, searching all?"
Brett lowers his voice.
"Twixt ye and I - how come ye don't be offering him a drink, nor a bite to eat? He done looked rided out - could use a meal, reckon. Maybe when we make camp - we can give him a piece o' meat, and get his tale - but I think it be better to keep him apart from the young lads - so they don't get spooked - at least till we know him better..." he adds.
Turning to the party remaining beside the corpses of al-Kazeem and his acolytes, Isani lifts her eyes to the sky, a cautious move to ensure no powerful flying creature is lurking, waiting to strike their party with force from above.
"I do not want to draw undue attention but once we have checked the bodies, claimed what is there, we must burn all the bodies. The smoke will certainly be visible across this plain and in the sky, yet we cannot leave the bodies like this. Conducting proper funeral rites is not possible as the sun is sinking and I am unfamiliar with the Black Kota's particular burial rituals." To Mister Tyrell she defers, as leader of this mission.
"With respect madam - Master Rowan ordered that - but he asked that first we determine if any of the cultists may have been forced against their will in these plans. If so - he asked if we could take their bodies back to the town for proper funerary rites. It is only about six or seven hours of riding, perhaps less - and Master Rowan seemed to think it would be better for the folk to know that we gave the dead a proper burial - not among the vermin that we burned in the field," he adds with a courteous bow.
"You are a gifted healer - and I sense in you a power similar to the one that resides in my betrothed. I believe you to be a good woman - and I hope you can aid us in discovering any signs of the foul narcotic of Pesh - or any other opium - perhaps magical means of control? The snake woman that rides with Master Rowan indicated that her folk have... powerful means of persuasion to the weak-minded... It may be that we can discover what motivated them - even after death - by examining the bodies carefully," he adds politely and graciously.
As the half elf approaches him, sussing him out as an animal would, he seems to be ready to offer her his hand, as if she were actually a beast, but remember himself and quickly pulls it back into place.
flatly he replies to her inquiry and to that of the halfling
I am a man. Or at least I was born one. The man I spoke of, he orchestrated my transformation. And many others, i'd wager.With trained reflexes, he catches the apple offered to him by the halfling. Immediately biting into the fruit and nodding back to its provider.
My thanks. It has been ages since i've tasted anything sweet, and I'm sure blackfang will enjoy that meat.
Lia notices the sudden hand movement and withdrawal. A twinge of pain slices at her core but she stems it as quickly as it comes. Her "manners" were not always acceptable to the city dwellers. They saw her as wild beast and she did not sway them from their judgement.
She circles Yillim to take all of him in, assess his strengths and capabilities. Lia was impressed with his agility.
"Now you are more than man." Her voice is still low and her light green eyes never leave his face. In a strange way, it appears as though she is complimenting you, assuring you that the "experiments" have not robbed you of who you truly are. Lia seems more accepting of differences than your common person. Perhaps her time among the wolves has instilled in her a different perspective.
Taking a half step back, he seems a bit suprized at her comment.
That is certainly one way to look at it.
then, thoughtfully
...the only way, I suppose, If I am to continue living.
he almost smiles.
Blackfang approaches along Yillim's side and looks directly into the half-elfs eyes. Breathing heavy, he seems to huff approval.
As the party moves, Yillim sets into a jog, following alongside the group as they return to the rest. He glances up at the sky once and sighs as if feeling a bit of relief after a hard struggle.
Watching the other speak softly while they ride, he looks back and sees Blackfang and the smaller Revion chasing each other as they keep pace with the riders.
"These beast men sound like the ones portrayed in Lencher's journals and the one called Amun", she says to Arasmes.
To the newcomer she elaborates, "There was once a man who worked with the Osirions to create new species of warriors, those who would do the bidding of masters. Lencher was a man of science but black of heart. We are only beginning to see the extent of his perversity."
"Yillim, you mentioned a man named Lutharo. Can you tell us more about him? It would do good to have a clearer picture of this new adversary."
Pulling back his hood, Yillim is indeed quite dirty from constant travel. With a slight frown, he wipes some of the road from his forehead and bats at a twitching movement from behind his ear.
I don't recall hearing this "Lencher" person's name, but no doubt he and Lutharo are connected somehow. Lotharo was a northman, that I'm sure, for his manner and dress were not of my people.
Yillim frowns
I could not forget his face, his armor. Upon it was a crest, that of a scarlet wyvern.As the half elf approaches him, sussing him out as an animal would, he seems to be ready to offer her his hand, as if she were actually a beast, but remember himself and quickly pulls it back into place.
flatly he replies to her inquiry and to that of the halfling
I am a man. Or at least I was born one. The man I spoke of, he orchestrated my transformation. And many others, i'd wager.With trained reflexes, he catches the apple offered to him by the halfling. Immediately biting into the fruit and nodding back to its provider.
My thanks. It has been ages since i've tasted anything sweet, and I'm sure blackfang will enjoy that meat.I would surely join you back with your people, If indeed they are as calm-headed as you all seem to be.
and again he looks over at the snake woman, now a bit further away.
...but i think perhaps I will run back with you, and give Blackfang a bit of rest, let his back feel...
"What the? Scarlet Wyvern? Oh bloody hell - can't a lad get a piece o' rest around here? Damnation! Ye never would think that building a country be such a pain in the arse!" Brett grumbles.
"Oye - Dross - this northman with the armor - he got fair skin - like real pale - dark eyes - maybe... bit o' accent different then us?"
"Anyhow - here be thing - we be got trouble with folk that be mixed up in experiments and such - fer now - toss a blanket or something over ye - nay offense - I don't want the raw recruits all bothered at ye... they be likely scared enough on what slaughtered all the folk on the plain - next thing they be hearing is folk be mixed up in curses and such, and maybe they get nervous and do something right dumb!" he adds, with jut of his chin at the young lads north who are already setting up pickets and digging a wide trench for a quick camp.
Revion and Blackfang nip, push and race across the plains, following the horse riders and the running man. Revion being the smaller strides longer in order to keep up with the larger wolf.
"You are large. Where is your pack? Where do they dwell?"
Revion's golden eyes never lose sight of Lia.
Revion and Blackfang nip, push and race across the plains, following the horse riders and the running man. Revion being the smaller strides longer in order to keep up with the larger wolf.
"You are large. Where is your pack? Where do they dwell?"
Revion and Blackfang nip, push and race across the plains, following the horse riders and the running man. Revion being the smaller strides longer in order to keep up with the larger wolf.
"You are large. Where is your pack? Where do they dwell?"
Revion's golden eyes never lose sight of Lia.
"With respect madam - Master Rowan ordered that - but he asked that first we determine if any of the cultists may have been forced against their will in these plans. If so - he asked if we could take their bodies back to the town for proper funerary rites. It is only about six or seven hours of riding, perhaps less - and Master Rowan seemed to think it would be better for the folk to know that we gave the dead a proper burial - not among the vermin that we burned in the field," he adds with a courteous bow.
"You are a gifted healer - and I sense in you a power similar to the one that resides in my betrothed. I believe you to be a good woman - and I hope you can aid us in discovering any signs of the foul narcotic of Pesh - or any other opium - perhaps magical means of control? The snake woman that rides with Master Rowan indicated that her folk have... powerful means of persuasion to the weak-minded... It may be that we can discover what motivated them - even after death - by examining the bodies carefully," he adds politely and graciously.
"My apologies, Mister Tyrell. Of course you are right to return the bodies of the Praxian deceased to their families in the capital. I was not aware we would be riding back to the capital so soon and thus my suggestion to burn all the bodies. It will be hard on the families, to have them returned dead without the opportunity to reunite and make amends. But at least they will be reunited. I shall aid you to the best of my ability."
Concentrating on the area before her for a few minutes, she casts to identify the presence of any possible magical auras.
"With respect madam - Master Rowan ordered that - but he asked that first we determine if any of the cultists may have been forced against their will in these plans. If so - he asked if we could take their bodies back to the town for proper funerary rites. It is only about six or seven hours of riding, perhaps less - and Master Rowan seemed to think it would be better for the folk to know that we gave the dead a proper burial - not among the vermin that we burned in the field," he adds with a courteous bow.
"You are a gifted healer - and I sense in you a power similar to the one that resides in my betrothed. I believe you to be a good woman - and I hope you can aid us in discovering any signs of the foul narcotic of Pesh - or any other opium - perhaps magical means of control? The snake woman that rides with Master Rowan indicated that her folk have... powerful means of persuasion to the weak-minded... It may be that we can discover what motivated them - even after death - by examining the bodies carefully," he adds politely and graciously.
"My apologies, Mister Tyrell. Of course you are right to return the bodies of the Praxian deceased to their families in the capital. I was not aware we would be riding back to the capital so soon and thus my suggestion to burn all the bodies. It will be hard on the families, to have them returned dead without the opportunity to reunite and make amends. But at least they will be reunited. I shall aid you to the best of my ability."
Concentrating on the area before her for a few minute, she casts to identify the presence of any possible magical auras.
"My thanks madam. You are both courteous and kind," he adds with a polite bow, and lets you go about your business.
Revion and Blackfang nip, push and race across the plains, following the horse riders and the running man. Revion being the smaller strides longer in order to keep up with the larger wolf.
"You are large. Where is your pack? Where do they dwell?"
Revion's golden eyes never lose sight of Lia.
Yillim nods to the halfling, understanding his meaning. I would not wish to put your folk at dis-ease. I would cover myself more, but I'm afraid my last blanket was torn to shreds, and might not serve well that purpose.
** spoiler omitted **
** spoiler omitted **** spoiler omitted **
Yillim nods to the halfling, understanding his meaning. I would not wish to put your folk at dis-ease. I would cover myself more, but I'm afraid my last blanket was torn to shreds, and might not serve well that purpose.
With Isil competently galloping across the plain, Lia turns partially in her saddle, having caught the words on the wind. "I have blanket to give, more than man Yillim."
Yillim nods to the halfling, understanding his meaning. I would not wish to put your folk at dis-ease. I would cover myself more, but I'm afraid my last blanket was torn to shreds, and might not serve well that purpose.Revion and Blackfang nip, push and race across the plains, following the horse riders and the running man. Revion being the smaller strides longer in order to keep up with the larger wolf.
"You are large. Where is your pack? Where do they dwell?"
Revion's golden eyes never lose sight of Lia.
Brett continues to look at Dross out of the corner of his eye.
"Nay offense - but, well - what they done to ye - ye aren't ah... contagious? I mean to say - we got a rash o' troubles in our town already - ye be looking sickly - we bring ye back, it won't make none sick or nothing, will it?" he asks nervously.
Yillim nods to the halfling, understanding his meaning. I would not wish to put your folk at dis-ease. I would cover myself more, but I'm afraid my last blanket was torn to shreds, and might not serve well that purpose.With Isil competently galloping across the plain, Lia turns partially in her saddle, having caught the words on the wind. "I have blanket to give, more than man Yillim."
Yillim stops and regards the Half-Elf
My thanks, lady, but I would need to trade with you, for I cannot take something without giving anything in return. Is there something you need? I have very little, but I would do my best to give you something of value.
Yillim nods to the halfling, understanding his meaning. I would not wish to put your folk at dis-ease. I would cover myself more, but I'm afraid my last blanket was torn to shreds, and might not serve well that purpose.Revion and Blackfang nip, push and race across the plains, following the horse riders and the running man. Revion being the smaller strides longer in order to keep up with the larger wolf.
"You are large. Where is your pack? Where do they dwell?"
Revion's golden eyes never lose sight of Lia.
Brett continues to look at Dross out of the corner of his eye.
"Nay offense - but, well - what they done to ye - ye aren't ah... contagious? I mean to say - we got a rash o' troubles in our town already - ye be looking sickly - we bring ye back, it won't make none sick or nothing, will it?" he asks nervously.
You have nothing to fear from me. Although I have had contact with few other folk since my escape, there was a kind family that helped blackfang and I back to health. The man, as fortune would have, was a healer, and he assured me that I was of no danger to him. As a matter of fact, one of the few good things that has come from my capture, is that I am more resistant to ills.
As he says this a twitching is evident just below his left eye, and a wormlike tentacle sprouts from his cheek and begins making small movements of its own accord...and I take no offence. It appears your people have been through much, and I would not like to worry them any more.
Yillim stops and regards the Half-Elf,
My thanks, lady, but I would need to trade with you, for I cannot take something without giving anything in return. Is there something you need? I have very little, but I would do my best to give you something of value.
"Your form is not displeasing, more than man Yillim. Those who would turn their eyes are not worthy of your respect."
"We can trade later." Lia is aware Yillim does not own much and her offer to share the blanket was made without thought to repayment.
Caliphana falls aside to lope along with the wolves, speaking Osiriani to Blackfang she says The many armed one says you speak Osiriani. Welcome to Praxis. Tell me if I can help you or answer questions. With that she falls silent and moves off allowing them to return to conversing should they wish.
Brett tacks his pony and rides off to the others to let the group do what they need to do as he assists in searching the corpses for evidence of may have committed the killing.
Meanwhile - what do you all do next - specifically?
Caliphana falls aside to lope along with the wolves, speaking Osiriani to Blackfang she says The many armed one says you speak Osiriani. Welcome to Praxis. Tell me if I can help you or answer questions. With that she falls silent and moves off allowing them to return to conversing should they wish.
Blackfang turns to the dragonlike beast, regarding it curiously
he whines a bit, and regards Revion
Arasmes has stayed silent for the time being, preferring to listen to what is being discussed rather than joining. Keeping his eyes on the horizon he processes what he has heard. Apparently they have come across these villains before and have a score to settle with them.
Yillim takes the blanket from the half elf and nods in thanks.
Then I shall take this for now and not leave your sight without some repayment.
In preparation for meeting yet more strangers, Yillim pulls his cowl tight and and wraps his face in a rag, and on top of that layers the blanket, taking care to fold his lower arms against his chest.
He clicks his tounge a bit, and Blackfang comes close, and the two of them, staying with the small party he met, approaches the others.
In time the party has returned to the camp which the outriders have prepared. A watch of 6 men has been posted.
The bodies have been sorted and the innocent folk separated from the foul.
The gear is piled in a heap - magical, much of it - and quite a number of raw gems and jewels.
The bodies of the foul folk are burning about a quarter mile from the campsite while the decent folk are being wrapped in makeshift shrouds made from old bedrolls for return to the city north.
Brett, Galen, Anaitis have spent quite a bit of time conversing with Drake and some of his men - gathering news while guards have been posted.
Scouts have been sent to the river to find if any more of the villains have been discovered; they returned with no news.
Meals have been made over campfires and the guards prepare themselves for rest while the horses are hobbled.
Galen has made extensive notes on what has been discovered via the "sonic damage" to the earth.
Finally - the head of al-Kazeem has been washed and prepared and offered to Brett for observation and return to the city north.
That said - you are now free to do what you feel is best during the night.
Yillim takes the blanket from the half elf and nods in thanks.
Then I shall take this for now and not leave your sight without some repayment.In preparation for meeting yet more strangers, Yillim pulls his cowl tight and and wraps his face in a rag, and on top of that layers the blanket, taking care to fold his lower arms against his chest.
He clicks his tounge a bit, and Blackfang comes close, and the two of them, staying with the small party he met, approaches the others.
"A wanderer must travel the path before them. My eyes will not follow you from fear you will flee with blanket or my own greed, more than man Yillim. There will be a fair trade between us, one day."
Caliphana falls aside to lope along with the wolves, speaking Osiriani to Blackfang she says The many armed one says you speak Osiriani. Welcome to Praxis. Tell me if I can help you or answer questions. With that she falls silent and moves off allowing them to return to conversing should they wish.Blackfang turns to the dragonlike beast, regarding it curiously
he whines a bit, and regards Revion** spoiler omitted **
Meanwhile –
Brett is cooking up slabs of salt pork over a fire and smoking his pipe, which he is currently clenching between his teeth as he fries the meat on the small pan.
Drake is leaning back under the sky, watching the stars – and you see his finger tracing patterns in them – as if he is trying to draw constellations. He seems distracted.
Galen continues to read – occasionally getting up to pace about the campsite – and is sketching various angles and positions on scraps of parchment – it looks as if he is trying gauge the size of the damge done to the ground – and use this information somehow.
Anaitis is currently sitting on her haunches – a sword at her side, her hands in front of her – palms pressed together and her fingers steepled – her eyes are closed – and she seems to be meditating.
The outriders occasionally switch position from time to time – marking watch and rotating it. The bodies of the townsfolk are covered and tended to – and there is an honor guard of four men standing watch near them.
The gems, jewels, coin and magical gear have been collected. An inventory is prepared – and will be ready for your examination in the morning. There are many mundane things of note – yet perhaps what draws your attention most is a large crystal – similar to the one that Shaezon the elf found. Doubtless more on this crystal shall be revealed soon…
You have the distinct impression that any of them are willing to talk – if you want to chat with them.
Dior sits by Brett, eagerly watching him as he cooks the salted pork. Ariarh politely curbs a yawn and makes her way over to Robert, the Drake. She had been watching him stargazing and her curiosity got the better of her.
"Good evening, Robert. I do not mean to intrude. May I sit with you while dinner is being prepared?"
"I noticed you looking up at the stars and you seemed so far away. Which constellation has captured your attention so deeply?"
Arasmes has stayed silent for the time being, preferring to listen to what is being discussed rather than joining. Keeping his eyes on the horizon he processes what he has heard. Apparently they have come across these villains before and have a score to settle with them.
Isani finds herself walking toward Arasmes and Caliphana. During the ride to where they had discovered the cultists' bodies and horses they had not had the opportunity to continue the conversation they started at the Keep. "Masaa el-kheir, sadiqi. You seemed to be concentrating so deeply earlier that I did not want to interrupt your contemplations. May I join you and Caliphana, min fadlak?"
Lia and Revion had settled a little apart from the others, not used to being in close quarters with so many people all at once.
Lia pulled out her scimitar and in the glow of the firelight and against the quickening sky she executed slow, practiced moves, her feet nimble and light juxtaposed against her tall frame. The air was cool against her skin but it only heightened her senses and the world expanded and contracted and she felt every motion of the blade against the air.
Revion was intently watching her, his golden eyes beacons in the growing darkness, head on his haunches after a long day of hard running with the large Black wolf.
The sounds of the night filtered into her mind like a song she had heard once as a child. It was one her human mother sang to her as a babe (the music remembered, the lyrics long forgotten) and the scimitar turned and moved gracefully to the silent melody. Lia was seemingly lost in a world of light and shadow but she was not too far gone to be on alert for any sudden attack. She stretched her limbs, honing their flexibility.
In the back of the sounds around her, she heard Revion, Blackfang and the Lady's griffon, the horses huffing tethered just to the side of the camp.
She wondered upon many things, speaking silently to Old Dead Eye and listening for his guidance. The sky was littered with stars even though the day had been overcast and dull. And her scimitar danced with her as she practiced while the others cooked or rested.
Arasmes has stayed silent for the time being, preferring to listen to what is being discussed rather than joining. Keeping his eyes on the horizon he processes what he has heard. Apparently they have come across these villains before and have a score to settle with them.Isani finds herself walking toward Arasmes and Caliphana. During the ride to where they had discovered the cultists' bodies and horses they had not had the opportunity to continue the conversation they started at the Keep. "Masaa el-kheir, sadiqi. You seemed to be concentrating so deeply earlier that I did not want to interrupt your contemplations. May I join you and Caliphana, min fadlak?"
Indeed - I will have that list of what magical gear you discovered - and mundane - up soon. I was just very tired, and didn't finish it. Also - I'll have Robert's answer on the board for you later tonight, too - just on the way to work.
Okay gang, see you soon.
Yillim sits solemnly on the edge of the camp, watching as the group goes about their business.He pulls the blanket closer about him, taking in the sounds and smells of the others. Blackfang approaches on padded foot and drops his heavy frame beside his friend.
Yillim looks over to the beast and produces a nervous half grin.
Well, we'll have some kind of safety, at least for tonight. These folk are well armed, and seem to have a great purpose about them. Shall we stay with them for a while and see if they can be friends?
He stands slowly, careful not to disturb the careful mummy-like layers about him, clothing, cloak and blanket. After placing his pack and weapons on the ground nearby and while Blackfang closes his eyes and breaths heavy, he removes the fine armor and worn saddlebags from the large wolf's back.
There you go, صديق حميم, get some rest and scratches him behind the ear.
Seeing the halfling cooking, his stomach grumbles as the sweet and salty smell of the pork enters his nostrils, and moves over to where the small man is tending the meal.
Could I perhaps offer some trade for a meal? I must confess, that apple was a kindness, and still needs to be repaid, but the meat you gave Blackfang would be nice as well.
He stands still next to the fire, and its dance seems to make his red eyes all the more vivid. There is a tiny movement within his cowl and he jerks his head to the side to stop it, settleing himself.
Pointedly looking over the half-elf practicing with her scimitar, he says to the halfling:
Who is this woman? She has an air about her that is both comforting and threatening at the same time., then, almost as an afterthought: Truth be told,I would know more about your group as a whole, if it is not too rude a thing to ask?
Arasmes has stayed silent for the time being, preferring to listen to what is being discussed rather than joining. Keeping his eyes on the horizon he processes what he has heard. Apparently they have come across these villains before and have a score to settle with them.Isani finds herself walking toward Arasmes and Caliphana. During the ride to where they had discovered the cultists' bodies and horses they had not had the opportunity to continue the conversation they started at the Keep. "Masaa el-kheir, sadiqi. You seemed to be concentrating so deeply earlier that I did not want to interrupt your contemplations. May I join you and Caliphana, min fadlak?"
Arasmes moves over a bit on his blanket spread upon the grass to make room for Isani. Caliphana is laying beside him on the other side resting her head in his lap. His hands running through her long blue mane, he smiles at Isani and says You never need to ask if you may join us, sadiqati. You are always welcome. I apologize for my distance earlier. I was trying to come to terms with what we were seeing. A powerful creature we face...yet again. It almost seems as if the gods are conspiring against us. That maybe they do not want Praxis to succeed. I know that is a terrible thought but I despair at times when I see scenes such as this. Looking around at the group and most especially the newcomers he says What do you make of the new ones? Cali told me she welcomed the wolves but that they did not respond. Perhaps they can only understand and not speak.
Cali raises her head up from Arasmes lap and stretches her head forward, lightly touching Isani on the shoulder before saying in Osiriani Thank you again, Bint al'Shams. I enjoy my new form. With that she pulls her head back to resume being scratched by Arasmes.
Dior sits by Brett, eagerly watching him as he cooks the salted pork. Ariarh politely curbs a yawn and makes her way over to Robert, the Drake. She had been watching him stargazing and her curiosity got the better of her.
"Good evening, Robert. I do not mean to intrude. May I sit with you while dinner is being prepared?"
"I noticed you looking up at the stars and you seemed so far away. Which constellation has captured your attention so deeply?"
”Ah – your pardon lady,” he adds, hearing Ariarh’s words.
”No – it was no intrusion – not at all. I was just watching the stars… You know that next month I am to marry Dasha?” he adds, somewhat absently.
”I confess – I love her dearly, and she means much to me that I don’t have the words for – as I am no poet… yet; I wonder, at times – am I am able to be what she will best need? I have made many mistakes in my life – I do not wish to make another. I know that, despite my education and background – I have slipped from good advantages in the past and fallen in with rough sorts, if you recall?”
”I do not want to make those mistakes again – and, were I to have children – I would do everything in my power to keep them alive and well. Even so – am I… well – am I up to the challenge in that regard? I don’t know – part of me seeks a small cottage with Dasha – possibly a farm – or, if I am lucky – I would prefer to fish, and to have a cabin by a lake – I think that would be grand.”
”At other times I think of the good Squire Kaid,” he adds the last with a growl of frustration.
”I would see him pay for what he did to me – and my family. I think that with Dasha as my wife – I may wish to return to my lands and seek to reclaim them – and force him out as he did my family. But of course – that is not the choice a man who would take a woman for his love so indulge in. I shoud turn from such thoughts – but, to you I must say that they are a part of me. I struggle with them – and, finally – the piece of me I like best – the part that says I have a true duty to this land; to make it whole – even as I promise to keep Dasha whole – and find a place of stability and order; loosing myself in my work and putting aside such grim thoughts or foolish dreams – contenting my heart with the task at hand, and that is – do my duty to this nation, and my family – and do not let petty needs for vengeance – or childish dreams of idyllic pleasure – cloud me from what my true calling must be. And that is – to do what is right for the people around me.”
He shrugs somewhat.
”Even so – it is sometimes a lonely road, even when you walk among friends and loved ones, eh?”
Yillim sits solemnly on the edge of the camp, watching as the group goes about their business.He pulls the blanket closer about him, taking in the sounds and smells of the others. Blackfang approaches on padded foot and drops his heavy frame beside his friend.
Yillim looks over to the beast and produces a nervous half grin.
Well, we'll have some kind of safety, at least for tonight. These folk are well armed, and seem to have a great purpose about them. Shall we stay with them for a while and see if they can be friends?He stands slowly, careful not to disturb the careful mummy-like layers about him, clothing, cloak and blanket. After placing his pack and weapons on the ground nearby and while Blackfang closes his eyes and breaths heavy, he removes the fine armor and worn saddlebags from the large wolf's back.
There you go, صديق حميم, get some rest and scratches him behind the ear.Seeing the halfling cooking, his stomach grumbles as the sweet and salty smell of the pork enters his nostrils, and moves over to where the small man is tending the meal.
Could I perhaps offer some trade for a meal? I must confess, that apple was a kindness, and still needs to be repaid, but the meat you gave Blackfang would be nice as well.
He stands still next to the fire, and its dance seems to make his red eyes all the more vivid. There is a tiny movement within his cowl and he jerks his head to the side to stop it, settleing himself.
Pointedly looking over the half-elf practicing with her scimitar, he says to the halfling:
Who is this woman? She has an air about her that is both comforting and threatening at the same time., then, almost as an afterthought: Truth be told,I would know more about your group as a whole, if it is not too rude a thing to ask?
Brett glances up, seeing Dross, and pushes down a grimace at the man’s appearance. Even so – he is still polite – just unsettled by his features, it seems.
”Well of course! There be one thing I like better then others – though some more then most – and others less then some – and in this case it be that; namely – cooking!” he adds in his usual succinct and easily understandable way.
”Now – I got a mess o’ things I can be cooking up – but didn’t bring much o’ my hash – as I reckoned on this by a fast journey south, and not room for real gear. But when we get back to the capital – as it were – I can make ye something good and fair.”
”Right now I be cooking up salted pork; as it keeps well on the trail – but – as ye asked – I think I can “sweeten” the deal, eh?” he adds with a wink
”Salted pork be tasty – as ye may know – but it also be a mite salty – don’t know if eat much pork in the south, but I love it – bacon mostly – it be tasty, though I got little on me now – feed most of it to that greedy blighter Dior – the griffon lad – he likes the stuff.”
”Well, in this pot I got a mix to have with the salt pork. It be mostly diced apples. I cut ‘em up fine – then add them to water and stew ‘em up; mix in some honey, mead and also a wee bit o' walnuts – and a little bit o’ cloves – and Hey, Presto! – there you have it; a fine bit of side dish fer the pork! Just take a ladle of it on the pork, and it cuts the saltiness of it fine – and leaves you enjoying the meat, and gives you something sweet to munch on,” he adds.
”Now – as we ain’t riding the full 5 day journey – I reckon I can add a few more pieces o’ pork to much on fer yer lad – but he’s big enough – size of a bloody horse – doubt much we can give him to tide him over good. Still – I reckon I’ll do what I can. Pay me, eh? Well – not really – fer now call it some good ol’ fashion hospitality – more then that, I’ll think o’ something later,” he says with a grin.
”Ah – that red-haired half-elf lass? Truth to tell – don’t right know who she be – the blondie there – that be me mate Ry lass, I should add – Ry done picked the half-elf up on our trip north a few days back. Don’t know the red one at all – but, as they say – if ye don’t know, best thing fer it is to ask, eh? ‘Course – I got so much on me plate that asking another lass be near a trial fer me,” he adds with a somewhat weary sigh.
”It’s me looks, lad – I can’t help it! I’m too charming fer me own good. Why – if I went to speak to the red haired girl – nay doubt she’d be mooning and sighing all over me, and that’s just too much fer one lad to handle. Hell – even Ry lass was nearly overcome by my rugged ways when we met – still, now we be mates, and she like a sister to me, though – twixt ye and I – I reckon that thoughts o’ me still stir her… though she’d likely never admit it – but that be my effect on the fair sex! Even so – as I said – here… take a plate o’ this here hash, and maybe another – and why not slide up and go on introducing yerself to the red-haired lass – a hot meal’ll do her good, reckon,” he adds with a nod, given you a metal plate from some random mess kits that were found recently, as well as a generous portion of the meat and “apple stew” – a two-pronged metal “fork” is given to you, so that you may eat the meat, and he hands you another helping for the half-elf.
| 2 people marked this as a favorite. |
Gear that you discovered among the fallen –
Of mundane gear of note (misc. gear of little value, bedrolls, saddles, cooking utensils – none of that is worth noting):
1,000 Copper Pieces
2,000 Bronze pieces (a bronze piece worth roughly 5 Silver Pieces).
5,000 Gold Pieces
40 Rubies – each worth roughly 100 GP
20 Diamonds – each worth roughly 200 GP
Damaged chest filled with 10 lbs of incense (1 lbs worth roughly 75 Gold Pieces)
Misc. Collected Jewelry; including Bracelets, Rings, Earrings, Necklaces
Roughly 6,000 Gold Pieces
Magical Gear of Note
1. Second “Crystal of Seeing” – identical to the one that Shaezon had – you now have another of the set.
2. Five daggers - +1
3. Three scimitars +1
4. 2 Rings of Protection +2
5. One Scroll – Raise Dead
6. 1 Philosopher’s Stone
7. 4 "Doses" of Incense of Meditation
Arasmes eyes widen at the Philosopher's Stone. That needs to go somewhere for safekeeping. It is extremely valuable.
Arasmes eyes widen at the Philosopher's Stone. That needs to go somewhere for safekeeping. It is extremely valuable.
"Oh no sahib - that is hardly valuable I should think. It is, of course - a small thing, really. I would think the scroll that return one from the dead is far more valuable then mere wealth. But - we shall see," Anaitis says, looking up with lidded eyes from her place by the fire.
"Part of what that stone can do is if it is cracked open and the liquid inside poured into a normal healing potion it can resurrect a creature with a great deal more power than that scroll. Not to mention it's ability to turn normal metals into gold."
Her eyes widen at this, and she nods her head somewhat.
"A powerful thing then - and I wonder if the former leader of that rabble understood its true power. But no matter - for he is dead. And - as for turning metals into gold? That much I knew - which is why I was not impressed over much; for wealth is less then life... But if this thing can bring back the dead swiftly - and with no error - that is a great thing."
She ponders for a moment.
"This is great thing to gain, I should think - yet, it does bring me some concern. For if the gods saw fit to grant us such a boon - then I would ask - what need sped it hence to our hand?" she adds half to herself.
"For now, though - I would think there are many things to wonder on... But, it is for the gods to decide," she adds with a shrug.