"The green man. There are many legends surrounding him. A relic of the Age of Legends, some say he or perhaps it still exists. Is there some particular thing you wish to know about Someshta?"
Just tell me everything that you know about him.
Amorial nods and pauses for a moment gathering his thoughts.
Knowledge Age of Legands
Rand nods while listening, with the occasional grunt of understanding.
i am sure by now that you have heard that i was one of the last people to see the nym alive. And i know where his grove stands, or should i say, stood, since i am sure the blight has taken most of it back.
Now, the reason i bring this up is because while i was kept prisoner with those outside, i overheard them talking about something called "The Gray Man". The one thing they kept repeating about it was that he wasnt a creation of the Dark One, rather something else. Unfortunetly, those who knew about this thing were killed in the previous battle. Since i dont have anything to go on, aside from the name, i task you, friend Ogier, to find out what this thing is.
Pausing, he takes a long drink from his goblet before refilling it with water.
You, Tesliin, you and your warder will go with the Ogier. Since you have some knowledge of things, you can help him.
And you two, asha'man, what are your names?
Quickly snapping to attention, Marten and Joilar sound off like they got a pair.
Marten, since you are a man with wisdom, i confer onto you rank of Tsorovan'm'hael. You are in charge of this quest. Don't let me down.
Tesliin, know this, this man speaks for me on all things. by obeying him, you obey me. with a sudden glint of humor in his eye, he looks directly at marten that should make her less stubborn.
Tesliin curtsies in acceptance. As you command, Lord Dragon. Thank the light Marten was put in charge. He seems to not have fallen as far into the Madness yet. Hopefully he will retain his sanity for me to gain control of this situation.
Tesliin was also curious about this situation. She was uncertain how much control the White Tower had here, but with so many other sisters already present, she hoped she could be spared to learn more about these happenings. Not like she could refuse it anyway without some repercussions.
Amorial nods slowly thinking about what he already knows about a "Gray Man". "Lord Dragon I will not fail you". Amorial bows to the Dragon and turns around to head to the exit of the tent deep in thought.
character thoughts
<A'Mar feels Tesliin's relief and curiosity giving him a slight respite to think of something else besides his situation>
When the Lord Dragon pronounced me Tsorovan'm'hael, I felt the pit of my stomach rise into my mouth. Me. A leader. I knew I had to stammer out a response.
Err, yes, sir, Lord Dragon, sir. We will not fail. As I'm firmly inserting foot into mouth, a thought hits me. If she's an Aes Sedai as I've heard them to be, I dont know what will make her less stubborn.
Hopefully he finds that amusing. Joliar would have been the best choice. He's a Tar Valoner, has seen the world. I've seen... my corner of the midlands. But the Lord Dragon commands. Its probably best to get on this. And soon.
With your leave, my Lord Dragon, we will begin at once.
Oh Creator, what have I gotten myself into. But the Lord Dragon does not give missions for no reason. This must have some importance. What is a Gray Man anyway? This green man sounds odd enough. Hopefully the Ogier knows more.
Joliar gives Marten an appraising look as the Lord Dragon makes his orders knows. He puts fist to heart, As my Lord Dragon commands.
Seeing the look on the Aes Sedai's face, Joliar knew that whatever travels they were about to embark upon would be ... interesting ... to say the least. He just hoped Marten could hold his own with this Sister once they were all out on their own, the strength of their brothers missing except for himself.
While waiting for the Lord Dragon's permission to leave, I looked down and saw the mouthy warder still on the ground.
Err, and with your permission, shall I heal this man?
If an Ashaman tries to heal me without my Aes Sedies permission I will resist if possible.
I thank you for the offer, but I can attend to A'Mars wounds.
that is kinda OOC for you Marten, there is no way for you to tell A'mar would resist; you have to understand that male channeling is very suspicous to everyone being all tainted and such an without any background of how we all got together, I am guessing I have known you, what; about an hour?
Amoral will pause by the exit as it seems the humans are lagging behind.
He uses the time to recall what he may know about this latest mystery.
Knowledge Age of Legends Gray Man
this is in game text. anything written in this style is considered in game.
just as everyone is inquiring about Healing A'mar, an asha'man and a yellow Sedai come walking in. Her lips are pursed, and a vein throbs across her temple. As she approaches, she curtsies to the Lord Dragon.
as you wish, my Lord she kneels down and places her hands onto A'mars head.
Rand shakes his head. Dont heal him fully. Let him have some aches, so that he remembers what happens when he runs his mouth.
Amorial looks to the small group which stands near him in the tent.
"Friends it would appear that you have all been assigned to aid me in a quest for the Lord Dragon. I thank you for your help despite your willingness or unwillingness to go. Lord Dragon with your permission I and my new friends will take our leave to discuss the next steps in accomplishing the task you have assigned to me. Erm, how will I know where to come find you once we are done? I don't suppose you will stay here".
Rand just stares at Amorial for a long moment, as if thinking.
No. No i shall not be staying here for much longer. Things to do. Got to stay one step ahead of them. Once you completed your task, seak me in Cairhein. If i am not there, word will be brought to me. I shall ensure that whenever you are arrive, i shall return to hear upon what you say.
A shiver runs down Amorial's spine as the Dragon's response is slightly unnerving.
"Very well. I will do just that Lord Dragon".
Amorial bows stiffly and turns to the others giving A'Mar a hand to stand up with if he is still lying down, "Shall we begin Friends?"
I have to admit, watching the Lord Dragon stare down the Ogier had me a little on edge. So far, I felt like I had avoided the madness that so many of my new friends have talked of. But the way he seemed to wander off... It had me scared.
But I had to put that out of mind. We had a task at hand. The Ogier had ideas on where to go, and who to talk to. He seemed to have a good head on his shoulders.
Master Suth, that seems like a good idea. With your leave, miLord, we will begin.
I knew I wanted to grab the group as soon as possible, and maybe I could talk some sense into the Warder before he got us all killed, himself killed, or his Aes Sedai stilled.
Tesliin tenses at the Lord Dragon's words to not fully heal A'Mar. She of course could easily take care of it once out of his sight, but such audacity. She chooses to continue remaining silent until out of the tent.
you may go, Tsorovan'm'hael. Tarmon Gai'don fast approaches, you and your group are the tip of the spear. You start it, and I will end it. He finishes with smashing his fist into the table.
I turn from the Lord Dragon, and walk out of the tent, accompanied by the Aes Sedai, the Ogier, Joliar, and the somewhat dazed warder. The bright sun catches me offguard, and I look down, trying to think of what to do next. The Aes Sedai seems like she's trying to speak, and I hear her ask about seeing the other Aes Sedai. Before she can finish, I turn around and address the group.
Look, I dont know what's going on. He assigned me to run this thing, whatever it may be, and I will do my best, but I'm just a farmer. Honestly, I dont like it any more than you all. I dont know what this is we're supposed to be chasing, but it's important. For him to give me the rank of Tsorovan'm'hael means its very important. But for us to complete this, we have to at least try and work together.
I know it must be hard for you to be here, around men who can channel. You never knew we existed until a few minutes ago. I can understand that. I heard the same stories of false dragons going mad. The fact remains, that the Dragon is reborn and you swore allegiance, the same as me. I dont expect you to trust Joliar and I, not yet, maybe not ever, but at least work with us.
Master Ogier, you seem to have some direction, and know something about this Grey Man, whatever or whoever he is. What is our first step? And before we get moving, two things, Aes Sedai, or however you are called. What does he need to be ready to move, and why do you want to speak to your sisters? Ask me plainly, and I will answer what I can.
I stop speaking and look at the new party. I am never one for talking, and this might have been the longest thing I've ever said. I know it came out a mess, but I hope they'll listen, at least a little.
I thank you Builder, but I can manage, I should speak to the other warders and find out what they know of the situation in this region and what other enemies lurk about.
"Even with the one power, there is only so much that can be done. A day's rest should be sufficient to help A'Mar recover enough to travel."
"As for the rest, Marten, that was well spoken. I am sure that this must seem strange to you. But it would do you well to remember as well that we Aes Sedai have much more experience than you, so please if you need any assistance as well, don't hesitate to ask. The same goes for myself. I have been gone awhile from the tower and would simply like to catch up before setting off on what may be a dangerous journey."
Healing level 5 (I have all 3 affinities for it, so no overchannelling)
It is good you healed him. Perhaps you can convey some of what I said. I understand that Aes Sedai have experience, and we will need it I'm sure, but I fear that this may take us places that your training has never covered. I would feel comfortable with you connecting with some of your sisters. But remember. Those you may speak to have also sworn to the Lord Dragon. I dont know how oaths work, only what I've heard. Learn what you will, but remember, your loyalty is to the Lord Dragon as well. Your Amyrlin is his childhood friend.
As to the rest, should we meet tomorrow morning? A'Mar should have recovered, and we can move. Amorial, where is our first move?
Amoral glances around the camp wary of those around him, perhaps he spends too much time in Cairhien or perhaps not enough.
"Tomorrow we will head south once we have started moving then I will let you all know our first stop. Let us spend the night gathering what information we can, A'Mar is right, we should know what dangers we may face"
I would like to walk around the camp and scrounge up something to eat. I would also like to talk to a few different groups of people to get a sense of what dangers lurk in the area.
[ooc]That makes more sense then. To slightly retcon abit, I'll heal A'Mar myself. I'd still want to wait for tomorrow since he'll have to heal the subdual damage, and I doubt I'll get all the HP restored.
Healing level 5 (I have all 3 affinities for it, so no overchannelling)5d8+7
Diplomacy to gather information
tesliin
a'mar
Amorial
Marten
Jolair
time spent in camp hours
Wondering around the camp, everyone is shocked again at the carnage. While the asha'man have been busy, it will take many hours to properly bury all the dead. Estimates range from 40,000 to 60,000 Shaido Aiel. Other Aiel wander amongst the dead, securing gear and personal artifacts, to be buried in a special honor ceremony later. While it looks like the dead are being mistreated, your shocked looks are quickly answered when a small group of Aiel pause and explain their burial rights.
Looking further about, you do see some westlanders moving amongst the dead, only these are grabbing items of value, pouches of coin, used armor and weapons, and various equipment.
Coming onto a funny looking tree, with two trunks that wide around each other like two snakes mating, Marten decides that this is a good rendevouz point.
4 hours we meet back here. is all he says before departing with Jolair.
Tesliin and A'mar, aside from dirty looks from the asha'man guarding the Aes Sedai, you are allowed into the groups. News is exchanged, the status of the tower being split, a rebel Amrlyn in Salidar, talk of War between the towers, strange tales of Sea Folk who can channel, worse stories of the Seanchan invading deep into the continent.
Tales amongst the Warder is of Gawyn Trankaard, who has earned the right of Blademaster because he beat Hammar Gaidan, the teacher of Warders. While the Shaido have been beaten, a sizable but unknown force is still roaming the Cairhein highlands around Dumai Wells. They were seen to be stragglers, small bands more than a cohesive force, which makes them more dangerous for this area.
Amorial, you are able to find a wagon filled with food stuffs, ale, wine, and water. Taking your fill, you wander about the encampment, talking to various people who wish to talk to you; Aiel, asha'man, Armsman, Aes Sedai; All talk of how Rand is the Dragon, how they are honored to be with him, how the dark one will be pressed, and strangely, people talk to you about their homes. An asha'man missing his wife's cooking, an Aiel missing the three-fold land, a Tearien missing the humid wind out of the ocean.
Marten and Jolair, you are greeted with welcome hand shakes and lots of congratulations for the promotion. Some say "better you than me" while others "i wish i was in your shoes". All in all, you are generally wished good luck on your travels, wherever they may lead.
Also, we will need supplies for this mission.
The warder asks about supplies. I can provide some, but I know that he might not accept.
Master Warder, I know we did not get off on the right foot. What do you need? There are thousands of Aiel soldiers who perished under us. Let myself or Joliar know, and we might be of assistance. Please, the Lord Dragon has tasked us to work together, and I intend to have us reach his goal.
if you have decided a destination; we will need foodstuffs for the journey and perhaps you will need disguises so we are not pursued by every Whitcloak in the region; if their are any. They wisely do not come to the Borderlands, so what I know of them is only rumor or old texts, but they kill on sight any who can channel the One Power, and I am sure they have heard of your kind. With a group of five, our best strategy is speed and stealth. Decide the destination; an then we can set a cover story and gear to support that story, unless you intend us to fight every group that stops us and asks our business or to entirely stay out of villages and cities.
Also, we will need supplies for this mission.
Amorial looks to the Warder, "certainly we need supplies. We also need unity. I agree that your treatment at the hands of the Dragon was uncalled for but petty squabbles must be put aside or the Dark One will take us all. If we fight amongst ourselves we will get nowhere. The four of you will be my protection, how I am protected is up to Marten. I will be deciding the destination and right now the destination is south". With that, not waiting for a response, Amorial takes his leave and explores the camp.
Amorial talks with al of the people who wish to meet with him and tries to instill hope within them that one day their lives will return to "normal" and they will once again be rejoined with their families.
He will then acquire as much in the way of foodstuffs and rations that he can for what will be a long trip. Amorial would also like to acquire a detailed map of the region if possible as this is farther south than he normally travels.
Likely with time to spare Amorial returns to the rendezvous point. Looking at the desolate landscape and the strange tree near him fills him with sadness. No doubt if the Dark One has his way all places would look like this. He turns to the tree and whispers to it words of encouragement, asking it to strengthen and grow and hopefully become a bright spot in this now scorched part of the earth.
Craft Treesing
The Ogier said south before storming off. Heh, I thought Ogiers did not get angry that quickly. Maybe there's a reason he's out in the world.
Ah, Whitecloaks. Them I've seen. Not this far north, though.
I must admit, Whitecloaks worry me too. They've no love for either of us. What worries me more is the Shaido still left alive. We didnt get all of them. Suggestions as to strategy? You know more than I about this.
While standing around talking about the next course to take, you start to see the encampment become highly active. Asha'man and soldiers are shouting orders, herding troops and prisoners into specified locations. All around the camp you see the landscape shift and suddenly large and small holes twist into existence. Over the shouting you hear locations called out tear, cairhein, trickles cove and so on, some places you have heard of, others you assume are small villages.
The camp is mobilizing. The Dragon's own flag is slowly lowered and folded. The Dragon is moving.
Amorial watches the movement with great interest. While he has read of the effects of the One Power before the encounter with the Dragon today he had never seen it used before. Another opportunity for observation was about to take place and Amorial would not be missing that! Sitting down next to the tree as he watches, Amorial awaits the arrival of his new comrades.
I had gathered up a few goods for the journey: some food, a backpack and a bedroll. Nothing like sleeping on the ground to make a person happy. When Joliar got here, we'd have to figure out the transportation options. I think he knows how to create a gateway, and it would make the trip shorter.
The Ogier is sitting next to a tree, and I approached him.
Hello again, Master Ogier. Your first time seeing saidin in action? I have to admit, it still makes my jaw drop. Errr, I... I have to thank you for before... I shut up before continuing. The Lord Dragon always uses force and strength to lead, well, that and the fact that he is the Dragon Reborn. Showing weakness may not be the best choice.
I looked around and watched my comrades leave, a little envious but at the same time knowing that we were personally selected. I took a deep breath and tried to compose myself.