I think that's a fine plan Brett. We need to claim as much as possible as fast as possible. For one thing we need Puck to be added to the charter so that he can claim land. We can do that by sending back a letter to such an effect with our signatures and my seal upon it should be sufficient for Oleg. I am of the opinion that we need to stay exploring and claiming as long as we can. I do not want to cede any more land than is necessary to...other parties.
"Slyath made excellent points last night. We have already seen how incliment weather affects our ability to travel, and our effectiveness in exploring. I believe that so far we have been quite... blessed that none of us have come down with any manner of communicable disease. Food is in short supply, and will from this point forward be of poor and portable quality, barring any unfortunate incidents involving other hungry animals such as the bear."
Hermia pauses and looks to the group. "Now, this may just be my observation, and feel free to lend your opinion, but I do believe that I can be of far greater use to this party if I were to remain behind at Olegs for a time and prepare a number of items that will allow us to explore more... peacefully. I have a mind to research and prepare an alchemical solution that we can apply to canvas that will protect ourselves and our things from rain, and... well, I do suppose that we could all use some portable healing to given the frequency that some of us have to moving about on their own.
"Another issue which concerns me is that this Bokken was the only herbalist in the area, and without so much as a healer, those lads of Captain N'Vars, Oleg and his wife, and any trader or trapper who goes through his outpost may contract some manner of pest that will spread unchecked without proper supervision. Now, I know that this is a minor item for us as a traveling party, but as it concerns the health of them who we represent, I am torn.
"For today, I have a mind to discover this statue, and free it from any taint that may be about it. We've all of us should take heed and offer our prayers to the Lord of the Hunt and the Great Mother, for lending me their assistance last night, and the rains that extinguished the chemical fire."
Hermia sighs and appears slightly uncomfortable. "I do not know which direction our Lord and my Lady wish for my to go at present, but I pray that attending them there will give me some manner of... closure?" Hermia savors the taste of the word on her tongue. "Ultimately, however, I will be guided by you as to whether you believe that I am a greater asset traveling with you, or preparing for the future."
Listening to her three companions sharing their thoughts on where they should go or end up, Ariarh decides to speak up.
"Brett, I think your plan to head to the Statue of Erastil first and explore/claim then tack back to Oleg's is sound. To the rest of you, I also want to add some information Garum the boggard passed onto me back at the swap. He advised that the Statue of Erastil must be approached and respected properly and that the Statue would convey a special blessing on the faithful of Erastil, and was especially "good for such people" as Alaric, Hermia and myself (well he gestured toward Alaric and I, so I presume he meant spellcasters), though he swam away before I could ask him to clarify."
"Slyath made excellent points last night. We have already seen how incliment weather affects our ability to travel, and our effectiveness in exploring. I believe that so far we have been quite... blessed that none of us have come down with any manner of communicable disease. Food is in short supply, and will from this point forward be of poor and portable quality, barring any unfortunate incidents involving other hungry animals such as the bear."
Hermia pauses and looks to the group. "Now, this may just be my observation, and feel free to lend your opinion, but I do believe that I can be of far greater use to this party if I were to remain behind at Olegs for a time and prepare a number of items that will allow us to explore more... peacefully. I have a mind to research and prepare an alchemical solution that we can apply to canvas that will protect ourselves and our things from rain, and... well, I do suppose that we could all use some portable healing to given the frequency that some of us have to moving about on their own.
"Another issue which concerns me is that this Bokken was the only herbalist in the area, and without so much as a healer, those lads of Captain N'Vars, Oleg and his wife, and any trader or trapper who goes through his outpost may contract some manner of pest that will spread unchecked without proper supervision. Now, I know that this is a minor item for us as a traveling party, but as it concerns the health of them who we represent, I am torn.
"For today, I have a mind to discover this statue, and free it from any taint that may be about it. We've all of us should take heed and offer our prayers to the Lord of the Hunt and the Great Mother, for lending me their assistance last night, and the rains that extinguished the chemical fire."
Hermia sighs and appears slightly uncomfortable. "I do not know which direction our Lord and my Lady wish for my to go at present, but I pray that attending them there will give me some manner of......
To all
At this point I am presuming that Gan is not longer playing, and most likely, neither is Smendor. If I am incorrect, I assume they will be letting us know. Hermia, what is your intention here? Are you still on board, do you need a break for a while? Your suggestion about Oleg's has me somewhat confused, so that's why I am asking. Please let me know, because I may be confusing things, but I am not sure what you plan on doing when staying at Oleg's (actually, you could theoretically do a split between the party and social RP with Oleg while the other are off exploring, if that is your preference, but just let me know, if you would).
Okay... that said... moving on.
I think that's a fine plan Brett. We need to claim as much as possible as fast as possible. For one thing we need Puck to be added to the charter so that he can claim land. We can do that by sending back a letter to such an effect with our signatures and my seal upon it should be sufficient for Oleg. I am of the opinion that we need to stay exploring and claiming as long as we can. I do not want to cede any more land than is necessary to...other parties.
wait, so do you want to go to the statue and back to Oleg's, or go to the statue and explore the rest of the north west area, or what? Let me know, if you would... I'm getting a bit confused here is all.
In any case....
You move forward after some meditation and prayers. You don't leave the area until roughly noon. This leaves the warriors the chance to rest for a while longer, and recover their strength via sleep, even as the others pray and meditate. So far, you have seen no evidence of any enemy.
After traveling for roughly three hours, as the Kobold said, you come over a hill and can see a 25-foot-tall statue of Erastil stands near the edge of the Narlmarches, partially overgrown at the base but towering above the surrounding shrubbery. Once the stony sentinel standing before an old hunter’s lodge, the lodge has long since vanished after a fire and centuries of growth, but the statue remains. Yet despite years of neglect, the site remains sacred to the god of the hunt,for the priest who built it was particularly favored among the Taldan explorers. A worshiper of Erastil feels safe and at peace within 60 feet of this statue, and no wild animals will approach within that range—
Ah! Good enough... did you know that Alaric has a portable Alchemy kit, though? He may be able to help you, in that respect...
Hermia approaches the statue, the reins of her horse firmly in hand until about 30' off. She stops, and as she has seen Gan and Ariarh do on several occasions, speaks soft words to the creature and pets its head. They have come to an understanding, Hermia and her horse with no name, she believes. Or, it could be that her soothing voice is more for her own benefit. Still, she believes that the creature could benefit from standing in a place of rest a while.
Hermia walks the remainder of the way to the statue on her own. The growth at its base does not concern her, in fact, she believes that it is appropriate. She prostrates herself before the statue, tucking her knees up beneath her and laying as flat as she might over them with her scarred belly, reaches and touches a bit of green growth. Softly stroking a leaf, Hermia begins to pray.
"My Lord, your good will has returned my life to me, so that I might serve. I honor you, as I honor the Mother earth, and all her creatures. For your assistance then, last night, and as ever, I pledge myself to preserving your ways. I will hold within my breast your ideals of community, and seek to promote it among my companions, and all those we rely upon for aide.
"I can ask nothing more, my Lord, than that you and She continue to guide me, and guide us, and lend us your power to purge these lands of the evil that threatens the people here, and our cause."
Hermia looses her grip on the green and rises stiffly, fatigued by a long night of stomping through muck, and tumultuous reflection on her current state. "For myself, I will admit that I was vain, and distrustful of others, thinking of my duty to serve before I thought to listen and to empathize. Grant me absolution, my Lord, and allow me to walk in your light, so that I might share it with others, and we might found a great community upon your ideals."
Hermia slides off her backpack, and produces the bowl she drinks from, and letting her pendulum swing freely, channels a measure of water into it, then raises the bowl above her head.
"The passion of a child resides within, her tears, shed in mockery of grief. Receive them, my Lord, and let me be absolved. Let me be remade, whole, and hale, and join my companions as an equal devoted to you and your faith."
Hermia slowly lowers the bowl, then tips it foreword and waters the growth at the base of the statue.
Hermia approaches the statue, the reins of her horse firmly in hand until about 30' off. She stops, and as she has seen Gan and Ariarh do on several occasions, speaks soft words to the creature and pets its head. They have come to an understanding, Hermia and her horse with no name, she believes. Or, it could be that her soothing voice is more for her own benefit. Still, she believes that the creature could benefit from standing in a place of rest a while.
Hermia walks the remainder of the way to the statue on her own. The growth at its base does not concern her, in fact, she believes that it is appropriate. She prostrates herself before the statue, tucking her knees up beneath her and laying as flat as she might over them with her scarred belly, reaches and touches a bit of green growth. Softly stroking a leaf, Hermia begins to pray.
"My Lord, your good will has returned my life to me, so that I might serve. I honor you, as I honor the Mother earth, and all her creatures. For your assistance then, last night, and as ever, I pledge myself to preserving your ways. I will hold within my breast your ideals of community, and seek to promote it among my companions, and all those we rely upon for aide.
"I can ask nothing more, my Lord, than that you and She continue to guide me, and guide us, and lend us your power to purge these lands of the evil that threatens the people here, and our cause."
Hermia looses her grip on the green and rises stiffly, fatigued by a long night of stomping through muck, and tumultuous reflection on her current state. "For myself, I will admit that I was vain, and distrustful of others, thinking of my duty to serve before I thought to listen and to empathize. Grant me absolution, my Lord, and allow me to walk in your light, so that I might share it with others, and we might found a great community upon your ideals."
Hermia slides off her...
Your prayers seem to have a profound impact on you. You feel a touch of warmth tingle through your spirit, and like a blast from the statue a wave radiates out unto the group.
Cure Light... With a little something special in the blessings...
As you are now going to examine the Northwest quad on the way back to Oleg's... I am going to do a bit of "fast-forwarding" at this time.
You can only work 8 hours a day to map; yet mapping takes you 12 hours. This means that you will take 3 days for two hexes. There are a total of 7 hexes of note... then you will be riding back to Oleg's.
This means that you will need to 10 days to map the quad in the north... then you can ride back to Oleg's; and should be there in roughly 12 days from this point.
You are now in a new month... You will not have to do any more role-playing for this quadrarant because there is nothing of real note here, only a few minor treasures which I will include details on in the next posting. You all get "exploration" XP at this time, but no other XP for combat/wandering mosnters, because I am going to fast-forward things to a good place where we can do something more direct.
Breeg Orlivanch, the disreputable trapper responsible for the traps in area C to the northeast, has set his final trap. In an attempt to rig a deadfall along the south bank of the Thorn River here, he overstepped his skill and was pinned to the ground by several large logs when his half-completed trap collapsed on him.
A DC 25 Perception check of the deadfall reveals that the ropes that snapped and allowed the logs to crush Breeg’s legs and pin him to the ground appear to have been severed by something sharp (Perlivash’s teeth).
Treasure: Breeg’s hatchet, stuck in the stump of a tree a few feet from his dead body’s outstretched arm, is a masterwork hand axe.
Amid an overgrown section of blackberries lies a hidden cairn of stones marking the grave of a long forgotten barbarian. A DC 20 Perception check is required to notice the cairn while exploring this hex. The skeleton buried under the mound of stones was once the son of a minor chieftain among the Tiger Lords, from a time when that tribe’s territory stretched all the way from Numeria to the Narlmarches—patrols from Rostland have forced these barbarians back to the east, and the majority of their cairns were toppled and the bodies looted—but this one has been forgotten, obscured as it is by brambles.
Treasure: Toppling the stones and digging up the body below takes a good 30 minutes of work. Once exhumed, the body still wears tattered and rotted remnants of hide armor, and the skull still displays the crushed-in side that spelled this barbarian’s doom. Of all the barbarian’s gear, only a strange ring made of green wood on one finger seems of interest—the ring depicts an eel and a frog locked in a tangle. This is a ring of swimming, but its unique appearance makes it quite recognizable.
Two hot springs bubble at the source of the Skunk River, filling the surrounding area with the distinctive odor of rotten eggs. Despite the smell, the hot springs are really rather pleasant to relax in.
Creatures: A 150-foot-diameter pond at the river’s source is home to a pair of giant frogs—these creatures are aggressive and attack anyone who approaches the pond.
Concerning Puck
The evening that the party discovers and claims the statue of Erastil, Hermia will examine the party for disease a second time, knowing that some do not show symptoms for a day, taking ten again. After, she will take Puck and his strange book aside, and cast .
If there is an evil aura on the book, she will cast on Puck to bolster his defenses in shirking the book's influence, as it is clear to her that something is definitely wrong with him.
If there is no evil aura on the book, she will open and study it, to attempt to help him with the puzzle that seems to be consuming him, or at least get a better idea of how she might actually help him. If the text has an evil bent to it, she will cast on him as a preventative measure, since she has seen how easily evil has taking to tainting the land about them, and fey are nothing if they are not tied to the land. And if required, she will cast it upon herself as well.
Concerning Puck
The evening that the party discovers and claims the statue of Erastil, Hermia will examine the party for disease a second time, knowing that some do not show symptoms for a day, taking ten again. After, she will take Puck and his strange book aside, and cast .
If there is an evil aura on the book, she will cast on Puck to bolster his defenses in shirking the book's influence, as it is clear to her that something is definitely wrong with him.
If there is no evil aura on the book, she will open and study it, to attempt to help him with the puzzle that seems to be consuming him, or at least get a better idea of how she might actually help him. If the text has an evil bent to it, she will cast on him as a preventative measure, since she has seen how easily evil has taking to tainting the land about them, and fey are nothing if they are not tied to the land. And if required, she will cast it upon herself as well.
The book itself is not evil. It is just a book... However; the words themselves, as you study them, as you attempt to decipher their complex meaning and coding; the decision to solve the puzzle is not exactly evil, per se, but rather, an everdriving compulsion to continue to read and read the material, thirsting for more and more knowledge until the lust for the truth of the words consumes your very brain... but no, not technically evil/ A better way to describe it that the words themselves create a massive compulsion... one that can destroy you if you continue to study it.
You are free to make a willpower save at this time, for you and puck (please throw up both at the same time). If they are succesful, then you are able to ward of the attacks, if they fail, you can still keep rolling, each failure making the next "attempt" that much more difficult.
Good luck!
By tonight or tomorrow I will toss up some information on what you find at Oleg's.
Alaric
You mind opening up the board for new players? Let me know what happens, I am now looking mainly for a fighter type to start by this Monday; who is willing to work up to general (re: smart fighter, not dumb fighter). If you don't mind seting that up, that would be awesome.
Okay, that's it. Thanks a bunch!
Hermia Will
Puck's Will
Well, I hope Hermia finally passed a will save.
Hermia Will1d20+8
Puck's Will1d20+2Well, I hope Hermia finally passed a will save.
You have passed the Willpower save... barely... Meanwhile, Puck has suffered badly from the book. You do what you can to keep him from the writing, but he has taken to random rants, and other more insanse babbling in the nighttime. Sometimes he needs to be bound, so he does not hurt himself.
You are all growing extremely worried about him... In fact, the entire event has led you to believe that the information he tried to decode may be part of something far more insidious then a simple "code".
As such, you plead with the group to stop off at the temple of Erestil you found, praying that this detour, while somewhat out of the way, will give you the chance to lay your friend on the altar and ask for blessings that heal his woes.
The party readily agrees, and after spending an additional day going out of your way (you now arrive at Oleg's at the 3rd... more on that soon). Puck is healed, and made better, but you notice a shock of white has colored his otherwise thick, robust blue hair. He seems... aged somehow, and his mood is somewhat more serious then before.
He is relieved of the removal of whatever dark power was on him, and happy that he is free of it.
Hermia will vote that this book, and any other book found on the Man in Black's person is buried there somewhere on site of the temple, to contain its evil until such a date when we can actually decipher it without undue harm to ourselves. She does not recommend bringing these things back to Olegs at all.
Neither, however, does she believe it prudent that they be destroyed. I assume that at some point, someone would have told her about his warning that "I am the first of many," but seeing as how the temple has been restored to its proper goodness, anything evil is going to have to do some really evil stuff to taint it to get access to these books again, if they are that important, which we cannot be sure they are.
Either way, they're dangerous, and she will pray that Erastil understand and keep these things bound here so that they do not spread their taint to those who look to him and these lands for their livelihoods, and that as soon as the threat has been dispatched, or when they can find or construct a better repository, they will remove the taint immediately.
Ariarh quietly watched Puck Sparrow. Indeed, Erastil was merciful and kind and bestowed upon their party yet another blessing. Their brownie friend had been freed from his obsessive studying. But at a cost. It was there, not only in his physical features but in his somewhat altered manner.
Ariarh sent Erastil a prayer of thanks. They are only words, oh gracious god, but you have shown us more kindness than deserved and I hope we live up to your grace and spirit.
*
Ariarh agrees with Hermia's assessment of the books. They should not be returned with the party to Oleg's. Perhaps, they should even be contained in some manner of box or cloth before being placed in the earth of this temple site.
Ariarh is softly humming the little tune her father sang to her as a child.
Dior moves from beneath Ariarh's cloak to sit before her on the saddle. Ariarh notices the movement and absently smiles at her beloved griffon. It will be good to get back to Oleg's. We certainly need to rest and regroup.
Another thought comes quickly.
"When we return to Oleg's, I hope we get the opportunity to sit down and speak with Dasha. We need to know more of her story. Especially after Hermia's spirit encounter with the multifaceted and mysterious Ioana." Gently nudging Tal forward, Ariarh draws next to Hermia on her horse and takes something out of her satchel and discreetly hands it to the other young woman. "Thank you for trusting me with your journal. I only read the last entry pertaining to Ioana; the rest is private and I did not invade the private thoughts and feelings entered on the other pages", Ariarh says in a quiet voice to Hermia.
Hermia appears lost in thought, and after weeks in the saddle only mildly uncomfortable atop the saddle of her horse when Ariarh approaches. she startles for a moment when she sees the journal, then smiles and claims the book. "I had not thought of it at all, thank you Ry," she admits somewhat sheepishly.
"There are a number of things I must needs do when we return to Olegs, including speaking to and properly attending Captain N'Var's host," Hermia blushes, imagining the possibility of meeting Geofry again, "And finally getting out of these filthy rags," she growls with distaste and plucks and the ill fitting winter garb.
Hermia is silent for a few breaths, considering her next words. "I do not believe it prudent that I attend any interview of Dasha, as my particular magics and methods seemed to... inflame the chaotic spirit. I will caution that you do not allow her words to put you off your questions, however. She is quick and angry, but her observations are sound and her words are honest.
"Dasha would likely benefit if Drake was on hand for the interview. And him as well. If this spirit is attached to her, and he has feelings for her, he should not be ignorant of the particulars. That is unfair to both parties."
Ariarh empathised with Hermia regarding the state of her attire. Mayhap upon their return to Oleg's they could do all properly bathe and wash their clothes ... Ariarh could still smell the swamp on her person. Perhaps, Oleg could organise purchase of some new attire for Hermia. He was a resourceful man, Ariarh had come to determine.
"Hermia, I will heed your counsel regarding Dasha and Drake. I wonder how fruitful the conversation will be. Drake certainly has had a calming effect on the lass and there is some manner of tender feeling between the pair. I wonder how receptive Ioana will be to my presence and questioning. From what you have told me, and from what I have read in your journal, she seems to have a rather dual temperament. I wonder if Alaric would consider being present, as well. I will ask him."
Alaric heads over at the sound of his name and says Ask Alaric what pray tell my beautiful ladies? If it is within my power then it shall be done! He says this last with a gallant bow and then breaks down laughing. It always amazes me how pompous I can be when I try. You two look positively beautiful covered in muck and mud. Might I be of assistance? You two have noticed that no matter how disgusting and muddy and dirty you all get. Alaric always looks well groomed and clean.
Hermia rolls her eyes, but chuckles at Alaric's antics. There was a time when Puck might have reassured her thus, but... looking to the streak of white in his hair, and his silent sojourn at the pommel of her saddle, it was clear that those days would be few and far between.
"Concerning Master Puck," Hermia begins, changing the subject sharply, "I believe he should be allowed to return to his people for a time. Erastil has done what He can to heal his mind, but, my friend, your heart is not your own," Hermia says to Puck. "If it is your will, and Ariarh, if you are willing to lend Dior to the task, I absolve you of your responsibilities to me, and us, to achieve some manner of peace among your people."
Alaric heads over at the sound of his name and says Ask Alaric what pray tell my beautiful ladies? If it is within my power then it shall be done! He says this last with a gallant bow and then breaks down laughing. It always amazes me how pompous I can be when I try. You two look positively beautiful covered in muck and mud. Might I be of assistance? You two have noticed that no matter how disgusting and muddy and dirty you all get. Alaric always looks well groomed and clean.
"Wait, you were trying to be pompous? Oh thank gods! That's a relief! I thought that was just you,"Brett adds with a roll of his eyes.
Alaric's voice and wit/manner always seem to have an uplifting effect on Ariarh.
"How is it you always manage to hear your name uttered in our conversations, my friend?" Ariarh laughs softly. "Such fine hearing." Ariarh winks at the sorcerer.
"I was just discussing with Hermia how we should have a nice, long conversation with Dasha, in Drake's presence of course, as she seems more at ease when he is around. Hermia believes it would be wiser if she were absent during such conversation. I was wondering if you'd like to join me when I see Dasha? If this Ioana spirit is as chaotic as Hermia has advised, it would be good to have someone such as yourself beside me when I talk with Dasha. What say you, Alaric?"
"And might I add, you are looking as handsome as ever. Clean, Aye. Mayhap you can weave some of that grand magic over us, so we may begin feeling somewhat neatened and presentable? Oh, and that lovely touch of lavender would sure be a treat." Ariarh smiles at Alaric and then at Hermia.
In due seriousness, Ariarh replies to Hermia.
"If it is Puck's desire to return to his people, I will ask Dior to fly him there and return to Oleg's on the conclusion of the task."
"Ah, Brett, Alaric is simply being his charming self." Ariarh's laughter fills the space around them.
Hermia smiles at Ariarh's jest. There had been too few, recently, their occupation too dark. The light of Erastil's grace seemed like the only at times, and Hermia knew that the knowledge of evil in the lands unchecked weighed heavily upon her mind at night.
"I had thought that when we return to Oleg's, we should ask if we might socialize some with Captain N'Var's men. If their contingent is to remain to attend to Oleg's security, it may be beneficial for us to introduce ourselves properly, and learn their concerns and ambitions," Hermia suggests brightly.
"Our first meeting was... disadvantageous to say the least. I mean to apologize for my deception, and put myself at his disposal. I believe that working beneath him, if he will have me, will lend to a better understanding of the logistics for creating and maintaining such companies in our future."
Alaric smiles at Brett's jest, glad to see that they can still joke. He then looks at Hermia and Ariarh and says To be fair I don't always hear my name...I just assume you are talking about me and most often I am right. He chuckles at that before becoming serious for a second. Hermia, are you sure about sending Puck off? Perhaps it might be better for him to stay with us for a time until we know what sort of effect the book had on him. Of course your wishes are the ones that matter as he has put himself in your trust, I only wish to do what is best for him. He looks at Ariarh with a grin afterwards before saying I'm always charming. I can't help it...it's a curse. Alaric then proceeds to start cleaning each of you with Prestidigitation and making sure to add the scent of lavender to Ry's hair. To Hermia's he adds the scent of honeysuckle. To Brett he adds the scent of bacon, his favorite.
The lavender scent happily assails her nostrils and senses.
Ariarh closes her eyes for a second or two and enjoys the almost instant calming effect of the lavender. She felt fresh, again. And a smile lit her face, and it felt like sunshine.
Turning to Alaric, Ariarh quietly thanks him for the spell. "I feel a little more like myself, so I thank you truly."
To Hermia, Ariarh replies:
"I am not entirely sure if Captain N'Var is someone who permits socialisation amongst his men but I do not believe there is harm in asking him. I must admit however, that I am not comfortable in such social situations. I will however, attempt to do my best, if we are all present." Ariarh blushes somewhat at the disclosure of her social awkwardness.
Alaric smiles at Brett's jest, glad to see that they can still joke. He then looks at Hermia and Ariarh and says To be fair I don't always hear my name...I just assume you are talking about me and most often I am right. He chuckles at that before becoming serious for a second. Hermia, are you sure about sending Puck off? Perhaps it might be better for him to stay with us for a time until we know what sort of effect the book had on him. Of course your wishes are the ones that matter as he has put himself in your trust, I only wish to do what is best for him. He looks at Ariarh with a grin afterwards before saying I'm always charming. I can't help it...it's a curse. Alaric then proceeds to start cleaning each of you with Prestidigitation and making sure to add the scent of lavender to Ry's hair. To Hermia's he adds the scent of honeysuckle. To Brett he adds the scent of bacon, his favorite.
In the wild, Brett might have prefered a good pipe... bacon is so... well, it doesn't fail to be noticed, is all.
To Hermia
While Puck is still recovering, he can still function and help you. He is still your signature item, if you will, and if you chose to get rid of him, that is your decision. However, you don't need to. Even the most potent signature item can have drawbacks from time to time.
Concerning Experience
For some reason, I gave Smendor XP for social RP, in error. This was my mistake. I will note the discrepency for next week, if he continues to play, which I doubt. If I haven't heard from him by next week, then he's done. Short of being in a hospital, you think he could have had the courtesy to let us know what is going on, but what can be said?
In any case...
For those of you who feel you may be lagging behind, this week you can submit journal entries again, or do dungeon design. You are all close to hitting four, depending on how you do... so it CAN be done, but not very easily. Okay, that said... I am adjusting the XP for Week 10 off the bat via nurfing Smendor's social RP. But he got the extra combat XP for beating the python.
The Return to Oleg’s
The time is 5:00 PM. The day is the third.
Your journey has taken you a long way, and over many miles. You are cold, tired, and weary. When you finally have returned to the trading post, you are somewhat surprised at what greets you.
Firstly, the tower that was being constructed is now finished. It stands roughly sixty feet of the ground, at the top; and a flag is flying from it. The flag is recognized as the colors of the squire; namely, a blue banner with a white hammer and crossed pick-axe.
The tower itself is roughly twenty feet square, and you can see that it is made of a heavy beams that are driven into the earth, and surrounding the beams are a criss-crossing of planks nailed in tight formation for better support. Slightly to the left of the tower is a sturdy log bunker, with a large fence around it that is roughly four feet off the ground. Inside the fence is a covered stable, and the log compound seems to be roughly sixty feet wide by roughly thirty feet long. The top is well thatched and protected from the heavy rains. A small outhouse is situated slightly beyond the compound.
The fenced area is as wide as the compound, also sixty feet. However, this fenced in area stretches out roughly sixty feet from the compounds front wall. Inside it you see a covered stable, with four horses inside it. You can see a man in the main tower, and he is armed with a bow, and another man at the outside of the fence that is at the base of the compound.
Reaching Oleg’s you see there is a bit of activity. Apparently the trader is doing some fine business. In the distance you see two outriders with the long scale mail; tall shields, bows, and lances tacking their horses to your direction.
When they move up you can see two men that you recognize having traveled with N’Var, though you don’t know their names as you’ve never been formally introduced. Nevertheless, they know you, and recognize you, and great you courteously; they cannot stay to chat, as they are on patrol, but suggest that you may find information inside, if you talk to their commanding officer; one Corporal William Tinker.
William “Bill” tinker, has been made the garrison commander after captain N’Var and his men had returned north. He currently has seven men under his command. N’Var returned north roughly four days ago, after the final parts of the building have been completed.
This formally constructed compound and tower is a stark reminder that the presence of Brevoyian nobility is now formally entrenched in this land. It is a foothold for any person of Brevoy to be able to dispatch troops from, should the need be made necessary. Further, you know that though this compound is small, and the squire is not too powerful (as opposed to other lords and nobles in Brevoy), his very presence here, in the middle of uncharted land… this begs many questions.
You see to the west of Oleg as small group of wagons and horses. These are more like “gypsy” wagons. Covered, roofed, and able to support a small family inside the wagon, if necessary. The wagons are currently arranged in a semi-circle, and between the semi-circle you see a large cluster of strange people gathered around cooking fires; little children are running around, men are smoking pipes by the fires, and women are talking and laughing. There is a goodly amount of ponies, some mules, and a few horses by the wagons, as well as several large tents. They seem like refuges, or possibly a caravan of sorts. But what they are doing here, and from where they came from, you don’t know.
Riding toward the eaves of Oleg’s you see that his gates are wide open. Inside the courtyard you observe a group of people eating at the tables under the eaves and can hear them discussing various things and what sounds like the words of a racous and ribald song drifting to your ears. A sudden noise of hooves from the west startled your attention, and you look there to see a tall man on a white horse. A long gray cloak drapes over his shoulders, and as he rides toward you, your thoughts drift back to those of the woodsman. Yet, even as you watch, you recognize the features of Robert “the Drake” Tyrell, who waves a long arm at your arrival.
”Hmm… seems like we missed a pestle of hash, and no mistake. So many things to be doing, and so many questions to be asking. I reckon we could be gather information from this lot for some time, and still not meet all the folk that there be to meet in a whole month of Moonday’s, as they say,”Brett adds with a shake of his head.
”Well, lads and lasses? Who do ye want to be talking to next?”
"Puck is a creature of the wilds, and is not beholden to me in any way. If he would feel more comfortable recovering amongst his own people, I would not deny him the choice," Hermia replies to Alaric.
When he has cast the spell and scented her hair, she pulls it around her face and smells it, and the gesture seems natural, as though she were quite used to hiding herself, once, and, you all know that she was, now.
Hermia nods in agreement to Ariarh's conjecture, sadly. "I had not considered that perspective, Ry. You are likely correct. I simply wished that as we are to be sharing bread together for a time, and responsibility for the security of these lands at least in some small part we might become better acquainted with one another. The good Lord Erastil's concern is community, and we'll not establish one distinguishing between ourselves and any others who wish to settle here."
Hermia smells her hair again, and slowly lowers it from her face. "I recognize your discomfort, Ry. When first I began traveling with you, I pretended to be something I was not as well, while I adjudicated a proper place among you. It was wrong of me, and led to greater confusion and hostility than I intended," Hermia spares and glance for Master Brett. "But, one does not learn to socialize watching others from afar, and wishing to improve one's lot. One must trust and throw herself full in!"
During the entire trip, Gan and Smendor have been speaking quietly. Eventually, as they reach the compound at Oleg’s, their eyes widen at what they observe.
”Hmph! Looks like they did a bit of work here. Well… I wonder, now… aye indeed, I wonder,”Smendor mutters to himself, stroking his beard.
Even as he seems to be pondering something, Gan faces you and bows low.
”The good master Smendor and I… this land is a hard place, full of many difficulties. We would see peace be brought to it, but are considering a new strategy; a new method of dealing with the trials of this land. Namely, we are considering heading to Master Smendor’s homeland, and gather together a group of his kinsmen, and travel out again. We don’t know how long it would take, nor do we no the difficulty of the journey. We will both consider the matter for the evening, and then… in the morning… make our choice to stay with you all, or leave you,”Gan adds with another bow.
"Puck is a creature of the wilds, and is not beholden to me in any way. If he would feel more comfortable recovering amongst his own people, I would not deny him the choice," Hermia replies to Alaric.
When he has cast the spell and scented her hair, she pulls it around her face and smells it, and the gesture seems natural, as though she were quite used to hiding herself, once, and, you all know that she was, now.
Hermia nods in agreement to Ariarh's conjecture, sadly. "I had not considered that perspective, Ry. You are likely correct. I simply wished that as we are to be sharing bread together for a time, and responsibility for the security of these lands at least in some small part we might become better acquainted with one another. The good Lord Erastil's concern is community, and we'll not establish one distinguishing between ourselves and any others who wish to settle here."
Hermia smells her hair again, and slowly lowers it from her face. "I recognize your discomfort, Ry. When first I began traveling with you, I pretended to be something I was not as well, while I adjudicated a proper place among you. It was wrong of me, and led to greater confusion and hostility than I intended," Hermia spares and glance for Master Brett. "But, one does not learn to socialize watching others from afar, and wishing to improve one's lot. One must trust and throw herself full in!"
Like I said... the choice of what happens to Puck is up to you. If he wanted to leave, he would have said so, if you wish to dismiss him, you are free to do so. Signature items are not binding, they are generally made to help players, but it's up to you how you choose to use him, is all.
Ariarh deeply ponders her next words.
"Hermia, I do hope you were not under the misconception that I would not partake nor do my part in the socialising. Back home at the ranch, my parents entertained a diverse society, from those in need of healing to those requiring well-trained horses, and I was able to manage well and fine. Entertaining a garrison of soldiers alas is not the same thing and does not make me as comfortable. I can socialise well enough when needs be."
A strange expression crosses Ariarh's face. A dash of disappointment and a little ire and something else. Ariarh often wondered if the other young woman thought how her quick words would be taken by another. Not every woman was eager to socialise and flirt or whatnot. It wasn't in Ariarh's general nature to be so gregarious and alluring. Ariarh's thoughts suddenly made her very quiet.
Puck, engaged in his recent sorrows for the bulk of the trip, perks up in Hermia's saddle at the sounds of women's laughter and children playing. her looks to his lady, whom formerly spoke of allowing him to retire, which he had been considering for some time, and spares her a smile. "My lady, it is a veritable festival!" he says with some enthusiasm.
Ariarh deeply ponders her next words.
"Hermia, I do hope you were not under the misconception that I would not partake nor do my part in the socialising. Back home at the ranch, my parents entertained a diverse society, from those in need of healing to those requiring well-trained horses, and I was able to manage well and fine. Entertaining a garrison of soldiers alas is not the same thing and does not make me as comfortable. I can socialise well enough when needs be."
A strange expression crosses Ariarh's face. A dash of disappointment and a little ire and something else. Ariarh often wondered if the other young woman thought how her quick words would be taken by another. Not every woman was eager to socialise and flirt or whatnot. It wasn't in Ariarh's general nature to be so gregarious and alluring. Ariarh's thoughts suddenly made her very quiet.
The scene before her with the caravans and the people and children laughing and cooking together made Ariarh's heart squeeze and even as she reacted to the happy scene she was also a little homesick suddenly.
"It is good to witness and hear such laughter and easy company. Indeed, all manner of changes have happened since we were last here."
Ariarh's attention was drawn to some of the small children playing. It made her forget the emotions from the previous conversation with Hermia. She let go of those feelings. It did no good to hold a grudge or let a wound fester unwisely or imprudently.
Drake's horse moves somewhat back and forth in the grasses.
"Greetings, friends,"he says with a friendly, though cool voice.
"I am pleased to see that you have returned to us here... many things have happened since you were away, which you no doubt will want to know. Meanwhile, I myself am curious to know what has happened with you and your travels. It was near a fortnight ago that you set out, I should think, and now you have returned. And if words of the garrison commander prove true, your efforts to raise the dead were more then succesful,"he says with a polite nod.
"But there is much to discuss. I would share what information I can with you, but perhaps not here, in such a public place,"he adds, looking around, as if he was being watched.
Hermia smiles fondly at Puck and slips off her horse, landing far more gracefully than previously, and leads the beast in the remainder of the way. She, too, is excited to see young families within, and to hear the sound of laughter. As she anticipated, the young ones think little of the new arrivals, and duck under the legs of the horse in their play. For a moment Hermia winces, expecting the worse, but the animal simply stamps and snorts, and shakes its mane. Puck, clinging to the beast's mane, grins broadly.
"May I, Milady?" he asks, indicating that he wishes to join the new group.
Hermia nods and helps Puck down from the saddle. He eagerly chases after the children, and after a moment, the sound of pipe music can be heard.
Hermia spies Drake waving at them, but having already established that Ry should be the one to interview Dasha, she simply acknowledges that she has received his greeting, and begins leading her horse towards the area where she smells the highest concentration of horses.
They have been traveling hard, and Hermia is keen for some manner of entertainment, but at the moment, she is also weary, and has not forgotten her purpose. She intends to seek out the Corporal and offer him her aide in any capacity which it might be received, and ask after Geofry as well.
Ariarh acknowledges Robert "The Drake"'s greeting and slides off her horse (careful not to have Dior slide or fall in turn). The griffon leaps the short distance to the ground to stand beside his mistress. "It is good to see you again, Robert. I will join you and my other companions, shortly. Firstly, I would like to stable and tend to my horse. It has certainly been a long ride." Ariarh gives Drake a friendly smile and nods and leads her horse to the stable. Dior follows. She is eager to tend Tal and return to the conversation with Drake.
Hermia smiles fondly at Puck and slips off her horse, landing far more gracefully than previously, and leads the beast in the remainder of the way. She, too, is excited to see young families within, and to hear the sound of laughter. As she anticipated, the young ones think little of the new arrivals, and duck under the legs of the horse in their play. For a moment Hermia winces, expecting the worse, but the animal simply stamps and snorts, and shakes its mane. Puck, clinging to the beast's mane, grins broadly.
"May I, Milady?" he asks, indicating that he wishes to join the new group.
Hermia nods and helps Puck down from the saddle. He eagerly chases after the children, and after a moment, the sound of pipe music can be heard.
Hermia spies Drake waving at them, but having already established that Ry should be the one to interview Dasha, she simply acknowledges that she has received his greeting, and begins leading her horse towards the area where she smells the highest concentration of horses.
They have been traveling hard, and Hermia is keen for some manner of entertainment, but at the moment, she is also weary, and has not forgotten her purpose. She intends to seek out the Corporal and offer him her aide in any capacity which it might be received, and ask after Geofry as well.
As of now, you've seen several gaurds, but no Geofry. He may be hear, and he may be out and about, who do you speak to first? Remember, there were two outriders you met already, one gaurd in the tower, and one at the "wall/fence" that surrounds the new compound. That takes care of four men, and the two outriders suggest that Commander Tinker has seven men under him...
I guess what I am asking is where do you go specifically and who do you talk to specifically.
That said, I await your response :)
"Ah, Ry. Your timely introduction to this dismal scene is a blessing. You mentioned that you've experience with horses. Might you help me with this creature?" Hermia plies hopefully. "I have in these weeks established that it is male, but beyond that-" Hermia laughs nervously.
"I am absolutely lost. He is so much bigger than a goat, and is not half as prodigious an eater. I thought him ill tempered for his former lady's temperament, but it appears as though my prejudice blinded me to his more delicate nature," Hermia smiles and rubs the horse's nose.
"I am afraid I am absolutely hopeless when it comes to animals."
Ariarh acknowledges Robert "The Drake"'s greeting and slides off her horse (careful not to have Dior slide or fall in turn). The griffon leaps the short distance to the ground to stand beside his mistress. "It is good to see you again, Robert. I will join you and my other companions, shortly. Firstly, I would like to stable and tend to my horse. It has certainly been a long ride." Ariarh gives Drake a friendly smile and nods and leads her horse to the stable. Dior follows. She is eager to tend Tal and return to the conversation with Drake.
Drake watches you walk off to the stables, but says nothing.
Smendor and Gan are currently moving to inside of the walls, your guess is to "settle up" with Oleg and claim their cut of the loot, or at least Smendor's.
Even as this happens, only Alaric, Brett and Drake stand around on the open field. Watching Ariarh and Hermia head toward the stables, Drake will wait for either Ariarh, Hermia, or both to return. In the meantime he simply fidgits on the saddle, waiting for Alaric and Brett to do something other then stare at the calvalcade.
Brett sniffs something, and his eyes light up.
"What the hell? Is that pie I be smelling...? Damnation! I think it IS pie... "he sniffs again, his nose seeming to filter out the necessities of the aroma... "Yes... a hint of cloves; clearly cinamon... some... maple syrup, perhaps? Oh! And of course... apples; they smell like green apples from northern Galt, if I'm not mistaken..."then, seeing the look of Drake and Alaric he blushes, and hurumphs
"What's eating ye two noodle-heads, can't a lad like a good pie, fer gods's sake?"
Dain
Recognizing that the men posted as guard should not be diverted from their task, especially as there are now young children to be attended to, Hermia will approach Drake.
"Greetings, Mister Drake. I apologize for my shortness before, but travel and other concerns have prayed heavily on my mind of late. I had hoped that I would meet your Captain when we returned, so that I might offer my services as a healer to his detachment. Where might I find Colonel Tinker at this moment, so that I might extend to him the same courtesy?"
Ariarh watches Hermia with the horse that once was Kressle's.
"Horses can sense many things that people cannot. The way you are touching him right now, he likes that. He trusts you otherwise he would push your hand away with his head. You are kind to him and he responds to that kindness. That is a very good start in any relationship between horse and person."
"My father always instilled in me that grooming is important for horses. It allows us to clean their coats of dirt, hair, sweat and so forth and also brings out the natural oils in a horse's coat to aid in the horse's health. Grooming either by brush, cloth or hand gives the rider the chance to bond with their horse and gives us a chance to check for possible scratches, wounds or bumps that we should treat immediately to ensure our horse does not go lame or sicken."
"It looks like fresh hay has already been brought in, on the floors and in the mangers. Between us both I am sure we can create some water for their watering troughs. Do you own a brush? I am supposing you do not since you inherited this fine creature." Ariarh looks about the stable and stalls and finds a spare brush and hands it to Hermia. She then opens her backpack (still attached to her saddle) and removes Tal's brush.
"Let's remove the saddles and stow them away first."
"I can show you how to brush the horse. I will brush Tal here and you can replicate the action on your horse. We can work together until both horses are tended and once we settle these beautiful creatures for the day, we can go find the others. Have you thought about a name for him?" Ry gestures toward Hermia's horse with a smile.
Dior is standing off to the side, ignoring the females with the horses. He is grooming himself and wondering what treat his mistress will have in store for him once she is done with the horse.