[pnpgm] Game Update #3 - File #23 - Detection details/More mission details and group plans
Scott Adams
longshot at darktech.org
Wed Apr 15 09:25:11 CEST 2009
HT Alias/Player Character Name Type Status/Notes Sex
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R1.John Haight...........Arawn.............Druid .Normal/Alfar Ma
??.Chris Wells...........Ben'dar...........Warrior.Normal/Human Ma
R1.Tom Corckett..........Caladan...........Wizard Normal/Human Ma
W2.Marcel Liberty........Chion.............Sailor..Normal/Human Ma
W3.Ryan Torres...........Farseeker.........Warrior.Normal/Human Ma
--.Tobie Bonahoom........Fremea............Sidh....Normal/Faerry Fe
R2.Mark Murtha...........Kell..............Trader..Normal/Human..Ma
Do.David Sanders.........Kiet.Sunan........Acrobat Normal/Human Ma
R?.J H Hooten............Raban.Usherwood...Bard....Normal/Human..Ma
W2.Robert Maxwell........Strie'bog.........Bard....Normal/Human..Ma
W4.Wout Broere...........Unali.............Ninja...Normal/Human Fe
R4.Alex Koponen..........Z'leyra...........Healer..Normal/Human Fe
Animals: Corona [Eagle] Z'leyra, Boyzdar [Wolf] (Strie'bog),
Game Web Site - http://www.funport.com/longshot/pbem
Public posts/actions to pnpgm at abroere.xs4all.nl (mailing list)
Private emails (not public actions) to longshot at darktech.org
Game Update #3 in sequence (file #23)
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Admin Notes: None.
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[Recap]
Post from Ben'dar: [Re: Actions]
Ben'Dar looks grim, as usual. "I had heard rumors of some...
GM: Ack.
Post from Kiet: [Re: Actions]
Kiet says, "Master, you spoke of some skills I might have ...
GM: Ack.
Post from Kell: [Re: Introduction]
Kell turns and gives Ben’Dar a wane smile, showing bright...
GM: Ack.
Post from Kell: [Re: Reply to Raban]
"It is a pleasure meet you Raban. May your fists be a bane...
Not part of the rpg:
Aside - Hi there. Glad to finally join the group as a real
player. Especially a big shout to Tobie! Big Hiya to you! We
played together years ago, and I was dying to say something but
had to wait until introduced.
GM: Ack. A small world, no Fae pun intended.
From Raban: [Re: Actions]
Raban listened quite carefully to Ki'ama and found he needed ...
GM: Ack.
From Raban: [Re: Reply/Intro to Kell]
Raban smiles and gently (for someone his size) shakes the...
GM: Ack.
From Kiet: [Re: Actions]
from High Elder "Let's see, Ben'dar...no it was Kiet. You...
Kiet replies, "Master, if you have a servant you believe...
Kiet says, "Master, I understand there are spells detrimental ...
"I believe I can see several places where such would be true....
GM: Ack.
From Z'leyra: [Re: Actions]
When it is time for Z'leyra to speak to the High Elder she...
Later...when talking with the party.
"I would prefer the speed of teleporting to the place we ....
GM: Ack. Not sure when the later would be. Since it could
be some time in game terms and our time I'll ad it below
as a general comment to everyone.
From Kiet: [Re: More actions]
Kiet says, "Um...In my former days I used to hide things I ...
GM: Ack.
Post form Stri'bog: [Re: Actions/Legends]
(Hello again. I'm glad I could get back to the game. Sorry for
not posting earlier, but I am going to first say a few things at
the breakfast :)).
GM: Ack. Welcome back! An awesome story! Good stuff.
Post from Fremea: [Re: Actions]
Fremea listens with half an ear to Ki'ama while he tells....
GM: Ack.
From Chion: [Re: Actions]
Chion stands smiling and says, "I do not need magic to kill...
GM: Ack.
From Raban: [Re: Reply to Strie'bog]
Raban smiles happily, "I am Raban Underwood. I too have not...
GM: Ack.
From Fremea: [Re: Reply to Strie'bog]
>Fremea studies Strie'bog for a few seconds before answering,..
GM: Ack.
From Kell: [Re: Actions]
After several minutes and things are a bit calmer, Ha'Kell...
GM: Ack.
Post from Kiet: [Re: More actions :)]
Strie'bog sees before him a small youngish man, early 20's...
GM: Ack.
Post from Kiet: [Re: Even more actions]
"I would personally like to travel by sea again. We could...
GM: Ack.
From Kiet: [Re: Guess - more actions :) J/k]
Kiet asks, "Master, how long before we must leave, and when...
GM: Ack.
From Unali: [Re: Actions]
#1: Either style is fine by me.
Unali remains silent and pensive for a while and then...
GM: Ack. Thanks on the format comment.
From Z'leyra: [Re: Actions]
Z'leyra seconds Unali's proposal "I think Unali has an...
GM: Ack.
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[New Stuff]
[Apris 15th, 1634TH], 1st day of Adventure #5]
[Location: High Elder's domain - Citadel, Dark Lands, Forest]
[Time: 8:50am - Earlier at the breakfast.]
Strie'bog spends a great deal of time at the breakfast trying
to study, learn and know the new people in the group since he
was last with the group some four months ago.
The Vassa Bard approaches Bard first and introduces himself to
the other bard, "Greetings. I am known as Strie'bog. Arawn
mentioned that he traveled with a Bard, and he pointed you out to
me. I have wanted to meet you, for I have never met another Bard
outside of my people. Where is it that you come from?"
Raban returns a smile of his own happily, "I am Raban
Underwood. I too have not seen another Bard for some time, but I
suppose the gods prefer it that way if they are to get the best
use of them. I am Xianese by birth, maybe you know of them as part
of Donara. But I was trained in the Aratad Confederacy by a great
Lady Bard of Elvish decent. Though I do not worship the same god
she did, but an allied one, Miryan of the Court of Cernunnos. It
was she I found in my heart when the time came for the oaths, she
has always been there but the oaths made her ...no, allowed me to
see and feel her more clearly than ever before. I have followed my
heart ever since and do not think it has ever let me down, though
not all life's lessons are as pleasant as could be hoped."
After Strie'bog and Raban talk a bit, Strie'bog then goes
toward Fremea and speaks in Faerry Sidh. "Greetings, fey sister. I
am known as Strie'bog, and it is a pleasure to meet you, and I hope
to become better acquainted."
Fremea squints her eyes at the new Bard. It took awhile
for her even to get used to Raban and now another Bard. She
has seen a few in Donara but now two in one place is pretty rare.
She briefly recalls Strie'bog from Vassa where she exited the
Sidh Hill there to join the group. But she never really go to
know or talk to the pale looking bard. She studies his words
looking for motive or hidden words. It isn't as if Fremea doesn't
know Strie'bog. Having stayed in the Faerry Hill in Vassa for
a while she had seen him before. She knew his heritage from the
Green Lady, Bohusara. But never talked to him directly. Part of
that was her shy nature, which with this group seems to be changing.
After a few seconds, Fremea replies to Strie'bog, "I do not
mean to be rude in not answering you, Arawn has been teaching me
the ways for the Sidh, however it seems odd to me to meet so
many humans that can speak my language so far from the Fae lands.
Though it seems you are truly sincere in your words and have a
touch of the Gods on you as well. I too look forward to getting
acquainted with you."
When plates are cleared and the meeting is almost upon the
party, Strie'bog approaches Kiet. "Greetings Kiet. I am known as
Strie'bog, and was once a companion of those gathered here. I hope
that we can get to know each other as we travel."
Strie'bog sees before him a small youngish man, early 20's
and only 5'-6" tall, with ruddy mahogany brown skin, dark hair,
clean shaven and of average appearance. He is obviously from the
lowest classes but still has signs of means about him, with silver
rings and chased silver bracer on left arm, and also clean clothes
of good quality. He meets you with a direct eye contact, however,
and says very evenly in Marentian), almost formally, "Greetings to
you, Strie'bog. My name is Kiet Sunan (Kee-yet' Soo-naan') and I
hail from the island of Lemasa. I am pleased to meet you. Your
former companions have been most hospitable to me, and welcoming.
Also, our association has proven to be most lucrative. I was
essentially forced to go with your friends due to an unfortunate
circumstance that occurred sometime before I met them. It was
prudent for me to not be in the area for a short time (no, I
didn't do anything illegal)"
"I am several things...acrobat, actor, sailor, merchant,
smuggler, teamster, rope maker, herbalist and, most importantly,
an Elder Mage. I am especially interested in the properties of
certain natural magics and seek a greater understanding of them."
"I have some military skills in the Javelin and Dagger and,
while not highly skilled, they should still be respected. I
contributed my share of combat casualties to our enemies. I
believe my skills could be of further use."
Kiet ends by saying to Strie'bog, "How about you, sir?"
--------------------------------
[Time: 10:00am - Currently at the meeting...]
After Ki'ama finishes up the initial speech, Ben'dar sits
back and ignores the back cushion behind him. He looks grim even
more so than usual. "I had heard rumors of some invading force of
strange creatures when I was a child, but I never believed them.
These creatures must all die. But how can we make them suffer for
what they have done? They seem to enjoy pain."
Caladan shakes his head, "I heard rumors myself but only once.
Cetric had said certain shamans were specially trained for such
a new threat. But we thought it might be from marauders from other
lands not these people."
"While they do enjoy pain, they love control and power. By
destroying their power and control over this world will make them
suffer far more than death. For all we know they may need this
world for slaves or for survival. So by stopping the threat to
our world you will make them suffer." High Elder Ki'ama turns to
the others. "This isn't just a threat to the Dark Lands. This
room represents a dozen or more nations. If the Vong get control
over Katai or even some influence it could be devastation on
a scale not seen since the God War. Do not underestimate this
while you consider mission plans."
Kiet sits and wonders what the Elder meant earlier. When
Ki'ama stops, Kiet speaks up. "Master, you spoke of some skills I
might have that would prove useful. What might you mean? I believe
I can see several places where such would be true. I am somewhat
skilled at hiding items due to some dealings in my past I would
prefer not to express, and even my use of Entangle spells would
seem to prove effective as they are an indirect form of magic. I
think it would not be wise to use spells against these creatures
that alter living things, such as Tanglevine"
Kiet lifts a eyebrow at the thought of a acrobat-smuggler.
He glances back at Suca but doesn't seem too surprised. Maybe he
already knew and wanted some of the party to admit this to others
for this very topic. Those highly intelligent members of the group
clearly see the door opened now. A way to reveal secrets without
forcing the subject and letting each person admit what they want to.
"Actually, I was thinking of pure entertainment. Katai do like
their acrobatic artists. So if you go as entertainers then it
will be a high skill for the cover." Ki'ama places a finger to
his chin in thought and after a few moments. "As to the rope thing
you do...it could work well against them. Spells directly at them
like a lightning bolt would likely fail. But if you can affect
the ropes well enough. The trick with such spells as I understand
them is they only affect the ropes, not the person? If so then
in that case it should do fine. Spells like earthquake or area
effect spells might work best. A Vong warrior standing on a bridge
that is suddenly on fire will likely not survive. Those sort of
spells will be the best choice."
Kiet nods and then asks another question. "Also, Master, do
you know if their detection items would pick up or identify
illusions as magic?"
"I sense many questions on that subject. Once I get to hear
the questions I will answer them all at once." Ki'ama turns to
others to see who has the next comment or question.
While Ki'ama explains some of the social caste rules to
Farseeker regarding the military ranks, Ben'dar turns to his left
shoulder and speaks to Kell and raises a eyebrow. With a sigh and
grunt he speaks, "A trader, eh? Ever done any work with horses?"
Ben'dar realizes then that Kell has a interesting Marentian, almost
Ba'ru accent.
Kell leans forward to Ben'dar and gives a wane smile showing
bright teeth usually reserved for those of high station. "I am
afraid not my new friend. My usual dealings are with a variety of
items but horses are not one of them. I am a fast learner though."
Leaning back, Ki'ama finishes talking about the ranks to
Farseeker and clears his throat for attention. His attention is
forward but also glances around the room. "I have been known to
carry items and not have prying eyes, or guards or bandits, find
them. Some items are better hidden..." His attention comes back
at seeing the image of the Vong fighter. "It may be of use here,
and my skills are at your disposal."
Raban glances at Kell and to the past speech by Ki'ama with
ears of a trained bard listener. He may need to some day make
a song out of all this. When Ki'ama gets his eye, Raban speaks
up. "High Elder, I was trained in how to smuggle small items,
mostly gems, so could help a little in that area. But the same
detection's of magic you are concerned about could still find their
presence unless special magic was used to hide them. Could they
also be using priest spells to look for magic? If so we are in
much graver danger as it can tell who is capable of using magic
as well, even if they have innate talents. Then everyone would
need some special magic to hide all the magic including
themselves. It seems odd that magic can hide magic but I know it
exists..."
Ki'ama nods at the Bard and gives a grim smile. "An excellent
question. But Katai does not ...tolerate other religions other
than the dog known as the Emperor. Therefore a open priesthood
does not exist. I'm quite sure...positive even that some exist.
But as Priests can do magic I doubt they would work for the actual
government to hunt others down. Since they would be targets as
well. I suspect most priests are in small villages or towns.
So no, I doubt seriously the teams or detectors use priest magic.
As to the other comment I'll get to that later. Need to listen
to other questions first."
Caladan speaks up, "Katai nobility..." Raban turns and smiles
at Kell from the other side of the aisle. As Caladan asks about
noble houses leans and shakes the hand of Kell. Ki'ama glances
over to see the giant leaning into the aisle but listens to the
question from Caladan.
"I am happy to meet you, Ha'Kell, I am Raban. It would appear
we both understand that something's are best unseen when traveling.
Its sad, really, that city guards are so universally corrupt that
you must keep them from temptation." Raban gives his best whisper
voice so not to be overheard over the other conversation.
Kell gives a visible gulp at the giant hand reaching for him.
Even sitting in a chair the man towers over everyone. Kell figures
he must be over 7 feet tall easy. Placing his hand over to Raban
as it shrinks in Raban's large grip he speaks, "Ha'Kell at your
service my giant friend" Kell figures Raban could take down a
dragon with a sneeze. He has heard of giants before mostly in
carnival style camps. But this one seems quite friendly compared
to the grumpy giant who has to bend swords for audiences.
Kell continues, "It is a pleasure to meet you Raban. May your
fists be a bane to our enemies and full of beer in celebration."
Releasing Raban's hand he continues, "One option is to not bring
any magical gear with us, instead relying on our wits, strength,
and courage."
Kell glances around at the others who seem to mostly know
everyone here. It is clear these people have been with each other
for some time. "As I'm new to what appears to be a very tight
group of friends I'll let you all discuss things over." As he is
speaking this, Kell gives each other person a quick smile or nod,
then sits back to listen to the discussion and gather his thoughts
and ideas. He is definitely paying attention and interacting, but
letting the group of close friends lead. He gives a particularly
large nod to Ki'ama as he settles in.
Raban leans back into his chair and knows this group is
indeed friends but a bit disorganized. No clear leader seems
to come about at times and plans are mostly made on the way to
enact them. This is the most planning this group has done since
he has been with them. But Raban notices that look on Kell's
face, a common look he sees everywhere. A look given by
small and tall, young and old. But by now it doesn't bother
him as much as it did before he went into Bard training. Raban
turns as Ki'ama finishes up some details on line of succession
to Caladan. "Yes, I am quite tall, it has advantages at times as
well as problems as you can imagine. Perhaps this time I will be
the distraction to keep the others unnoticed. There can be no doubt
of my skills as an entertainer, so that will lend a lot of
credibility to the whole cover story as well."
Ki'ama nods in agreement with Raban. As he does Kiet recalls
the topic of the flag. Kiet speaks up, "Master, if you have a
servant you believe deserving of such things as this flag and the
uniforms, and appreciating them, I would be honored to give them
to you to present to your good servant."
After a few moments of thinking, "I have no servant or fellow
mage who would find such useful. No one else in the lands know
of Lymria but myself. That's only because I have an extensive
library collected over...a long time. I suspect a true scholar
like the winged one...Kaelle or whatever his name might find the
value not in coins but in pure knowledge and history. Maybe
some day he could even display them in his library. I appreciate
the offer but I have no use for them."
Before Ki'ama can turn his attention to anther person, Kiet
glances at the two tapestries on the side walls. He then turns
and speaks up, "Master, I understand there are spells detrimental
to plantlife, though I do not know any. Would such spells be
useful or effective? If these staves and orbs could be, um,
handled in this fashion might that not tip odds in our favour?"
Ki'ama nods and glances to the table on his left, "an excellent
question. One I'm not positive on the answer. There are chaotic
spells like leeching and withering hand I believe? Those spells
might affect organic tissue. But the problem is if they have a
high magic defense against spells then you have to do it in such
a way not to affect them directly." At that point several in
the party get a memory flash of a battle on Clima. In fact a spell
like Slime might be quite useful for area effects against these
beasts. "These things are organic living things as it seems all
of their technology. But I don't know if any in the first great
plain war used any of that magic against them."
Z'leyra takes her chance and speaks up next, "I see that
attempting to affect the Vong directly with a spell would likely
not work. Is it known whether the Vong affect the likelihood of a
spell, say for example a Fireball, being cast through the area
they are in? If not, presumably they would take damage from the
heat just as normal creatures would. Likewise, is it known whether
enchantments, such as of sharpness and of improved aim, have any
different affect when used against the Vong?"
"Let's put it this way. You are proud of your high magical
defense, almost to the point of depending on it too much. Though
no spells might affect you have others affected you in different
ways?" Z'leyra considers this and recalls a few instances of such
spells and quietly nods. "So if you can be affected then I am sure
they can be as well. As to magical weapons...the archives aren't
that clear. Weapons that improve your chance to hit tends to
work on the user not the target, improving his perception. As to
damage bonuses I'm not sure. I suspect it might depends on the
particular Vong, their armor and other things. I have no clear
answer on this."
"Also," Z'leyra continues, "do you know the basis on how Katai
does what detecting of magic that is does? For example one type
might be an amulet that glows whenever magic is nearby and the
amulet glows stronger as it gets closer to the magic. This type
would be much harder to sneak magic items past than an amulet that
allows the wearer to see magic in line of sight. This might be
countered by having a layer of paint or cloth over the magic item,
depending on if and how thick the aura of the item is. Similarly
an item that causes nearby magic items to glow could be blocked by
several layers of cloth, a thin layer of leather or some other
means of blocking light. Depending on the answer we may be able
to sneak magic items in."
Z'leyra goes on, "I do have a spell 'Oblivion' that allows me
to put people into a magical hole as it were. Perhaps a more
advanced version of the spell could put items in until called? I
could perhaps use Oblivion for transporting people with all their
magic items. Is it detectable by those in Katai that I have cast
it and could call the person back?"
"I," Ki'ama starts to flex his fingers, "know the spell
you speak of. I suspect many like Raban couldn't be affected
by the spell by their size or strength. Wizards have tried to
create the age old sack-of-big-holding. But the problem with
this theory is that if the caster is killed poof go friends
and items. Then there is the problem of it being dispelled and
where do they come out of? It has been a great debate in these
lands for many decades. No, I suspect they would not be able
to detect an oblivion spell. But would you be willing to risk
the danger? With Katai likely to kill on the spot for holding
magic items what of those inside? To me the risk is too high.
Given sheer numbers even you could not survive immediate justice
if it was determined. As to the other issues I will return to
that once I hear the rest of the questions."
Knowing the High Elder will answer the question of Katai's
magic sensing system later, Z'leyra adds more questions to the
line of questions to be answered. "Does making an item invisible
make it undetectable as magic by them? Is it possible that a
carrying item like a sack or box could be ensorcelled to normally
be invisible, insubstantial and to levitate behind someone until
made visible and substantial by a command word...then available
for some minutes to put in or take out items that are concealed
within it? I may be able to create such an item, but I suspect
that you could do a much better job far faster than I can at this
moment. You may already have such an item available."
Ki'ama smiles, "you ask questions apprentices do not ask for
years of study. You are indeed experienced. No. Making things
invisible is magic and it can be detected. Think of the castle.
I was debriefed that someone...I forget who ...tried to do something
hidden and a simple revelation ward revealed him. Likely A'kril
used a simple Invisible-detection spell. This ward is quite
common here since wizards like to sneak about. So you can rest
assured Katai has such defenses well in place. At least for
the common invisibie material. For others it might be hit and
miss for that chance."
"If we cannot safely conceal our magics we may have to leave
them behind." Z'leyra considers her options and continues, "In
which case suitable non-magical arms and armor may be needed for
us to fight the Vong with."
Ki'ama nods and gives a faint smile. Z'leyra doesn't like
how Ki'ama seems to hold back but likely wishes not to repeat
himself over and over. So will wait for those answers. Z'leyra
turns to the others and speaks up. "I would prefer the speed of
teleporting to the place we need to go, but I am used to lands
where there is plenty of space to hide in. I gather that Katai is
much more crowded. The combination of being so crowded that
teleporting might be obvious and the hatred of magic that may
lead to immediate attacks on those appearing via teleport may
make it very hard to concentrate on attacking the Vong when mobs
of Katai attempt to kill us wherever we appear. Though
teleportation combined with invisibility or illusions may keep
that risk to a minimum."
Caladan speaks up this time, "That is up to Chion but I suspect
it would be a great burden even for him. Would be a party of 13
or 14 of us, 14 or 15 horses, possibly a full wagon not including
any personal gear. I suspect that would require a three or four
high power teleport. While one might be able to get away with it
such a high power spell could be detected maybe? I doubt the Katai
folks are that sophisticated. But we should consider the amount
of teleports involved."
Z'leyra considers the cover story options. "Several of us can
entertain well enough for us to use the subterfuge of being a
troupe of entertainers. 'See the amazing foreigners! The giant
Raban, stronger than two men! Try and match quickness with the
lightning fast Farseeker! The acrobat Kiet! The woman warriors
Unali and Z'leyra! Hear the music and see the dancing from foreign
lands. Win money by beating the foreigners at challenges of
strength and skill!' For example, while merely decent as a fighter
I am a trained troubadour who can sing, dance and play drums. Not
spectacularly well, it is a hobby, not my profession, but perhaps
well enough to have villagers thinking of me as an entertainer
rather than as something more, uh feared. Perhaps I could get
Corona to participate as a 'trained pet', or failing that to keep
a safe distance so as not to trigger suspicions. Of course I can
continue to be a healer. I can also be a traveling herbalist. Even
a jeweler or an artist."
At the first part of the news of carnival like atmosphere,
most in the party give a giggle or smile at the though. It is
good to relieve the tension in the air.
Then Z'leyra returns to more serious topics. "About hiding
magic...it depends on how the magic is sensed. I dislike using the
Oblivion spell but could do so to carry folks fully armed and
armored, ready for combat. That presumes that I can recall you
when needed. The recall is expensive in terms of magic. If
exhausted or in a situation where I can't cast magic I would not
be able to recall folks from Oblivion until I was refreshed and in
a place where I could cast magic. I suppose that I might be able
to make an item to cast Oblivion...but the item might get lost or
taken."
"Plus if you need said items or people in Oblivion in times
of need it could be problematic. In the middle of a battle it
could be too late. It is one thing to simply trap a villager with
no magic defense or item. But to say Oblivion yourself would be
a challenge. As each item has its own magic defense and would
interfere in various ways. So someone like Farseeker might be
easier but someone like yourself could be difficult." Ki'ama
explains to the group as a whole.
The eager Kiet, every ready for all paths, considers Z'leyra's
words. Smuggling is one thing but would it be effective? Kiet says,
"Um...In my former days I used to hide things I wished to remain
unfound. When I learned my spells, I learned what would possibly
make my subterfuge even more effective. One spell in particular
should prove useful, as long as the power of the sensing device is
relatively low. I can shield myself from magical Mana Sensing, Mana
Reading, Soul Sight, Divination and Detection. It has no affect
against the Shadow version of Soul Sight. The spell is twice as
effective against innate or untrained use of these same detection
methods, say that used by our Sidh friends here. Given a short
time, I believe I could be prepared to have the spell ready for
effective protection. That should be quite a bit considering the
Katai parsimony regarding magic. In other words, they dislike the
use of magic, so maybe their detection is of poor quality, as they
wouldn't trust the mage to be too powerful."
Kiet continues explaining his plan, "If I wished to place the
spell on someone other than myself I must pay double cost to do so.
I would find that to be an objectionable percentage of my daily
ability. I am fairly certain this would prove effective for the
items I wear... but I would have to know I am being examined in
order to prevent the unwanted intrusion of my privacy. The duration
would be about 2-2.5 minutes, with the time easily able to be
extended at a further cost of mana. Perhaps our host (or one of
us!) might have some low level detection items with which we
could test it out and see if my worn or carried items are
protected as well."
ki'ama sits and listens but waits for more comments and other
questions on hiding and detecting magic before he answers. He
has learned to speak once and not repeat himself in this land.
Strie'bog takes this chance to speak up before others do.
In hearing what Ki'ama has said he recalls some stories of his
homeland and wonders if it is important now. "High Elder, there
are two concerns I have in this mission. I carry with my a
musical instrument that is very dear and important to me, and one
with which I may not leave behind. The magic within is subtle and
tied to me. My senses are not as keen as most, and I do not know
if my balalaika will bring harm or notice to my companions or
myself."
"Your instrument correct?" Ki'ama asks and Strie'bog nods.
"What you take and leave will be a personal decision. I suspect
not every single item in a person's things will be scanned. I
suspect the more obvious things might be. Most would assume
a musical instrument is harmless so may avoid it. I just can't
say if it will do harm or not."
Strie'bog continues, "My second concern regards the language
of the Katai. I know little of these people, and do not know their
language. If their society is as closed and fearful as you say,
then we must have means to speak with them. Is there a way that we
may quickly learn their language? "
Caladan turns and looks at Strie'bog, "Z'leyra has created
this magical necklace thing that one can use to learn languages.
You might get with her later on that for the language."
With a serious look on his face, Strie'bog stands and steps
to the front of the group to face mainly the party. Most do not
see this as alarming, though Suca does place hand on belt. But
they know a Bard is best telling stories from the front of an
audience. "The High Elder asked about Lake Oca, and why the Vong
took such interest in the lake." He takes a moment, bows his head,
and breaths deeply, apparently steadying himself.
"The tale is one known only to the Vassa Forestal and my
mother, who taught it to me. It is a sacred story, but one I
freely share in hopes that it may bring illumination on the plans
of the Vong."
With a deep breath, he begins: "Some of you may have heard of
Danna and the Wanderer, and their four children Dagda, Mathgen,
Nuada and Hecate. Some may have heard the story of how the sons of
Danna, at the urging of Kototh went to save their mother from the
demon Ymir, and how she gave of her strength, her warmth, to save
her Children. It is told that the wanderer took from his fallen
beloved the last of her infant spirit, giving the sons brides. My
story begins with the birth of the first son of Mathgen and his
bride Luchta."
"Cernunnos is the lord of life, the protector of life, and
eternal foe of rightfully despised Kototh. It is Cernunnos who
fathered the Green Ladies, and with the help of his parents, filled
the middle world with the blessed forests. But the story which is
of interest to you is the story of Lake Oca."
"In the ancient tongues of the Forest, it has a more
meaningful name: Etika'ele Gi'ga. The story will be the
translation of this ancient word."
"Throughout the ages, Cernunnos fought with most hated Kototh,
for true life can not exist with the perversion of unlife. The
desecrations of Kototh defile the true life of world, of the
blessed forests. In all the worlds did this battle rage, but it
was in the middle world where the battle was the fiercest. Time
is a concern of mortals, but before the Vassa were welcomed into
the world, a battle raged over the upper world's reflection of my
mother's forest. For over a hundred days did Cernunnos battle
Kototh, until betrayal came from Kototh's brood. Kotarl, the
deceiver, the Dark Sorcerer, concealed by the vilest of magics,
thrust his twisted black staff into Cernunnos's side, piercing his
heart."
Strie'bog bows his head, placing his hands over his face.
With a motion, possibly of warding against evil, he uncovers his
face. He looks at the assembled. "The Upper World is reflected in
many ways upon the middle world, as the Middle World becomes
reflected in the Upper. As Cernunnos fell, his body, his essence
was scattered across the Middle World, but his heart's blood fell
into the forest known by most as the Vassa Woods. The force was
of such force that it dug deep into the Earth. By the powers of my
mother, the blood was contained, and thus was Lake Oca brought
forth. In the ancient tongue of the forest, Etika'ele Gi'ga, the
lake of sacred blood."
"But I do not believe that the Vong could sense the potential
of these water, which have dwindled throughout the ages. What is
of more concern is what happened after the formation of the lake.
Mata, one of the consorts of Cernunnos, wandered the world seeking
her love. The mournful widow shed tears where she sensed his
scattered essence. My mother spoke of when Mata passed through
the Vassa forest. She came and cried by the newly formed lake.
She wandered the periphery of the lake, and as she passed, her
tears fell to the earth. The magic of the mistress of herbs and
healing merged with the power of her slain love. For ever tear,
there bloomed a flower, white streaked with red, the mournful
colors of love and loss. These flowers are known as Orenda
Ay'ana. I thought that none but the Forestal and the Green Lady
knew of these flowers, for to most they appear only as a pretty
flower. If the Vong have the ability to sense magic, or the
potential in plants and animals, they may have sensed the power
of life within these flowers."
Looking at his companions, "my mother did not speak of these
flowers for there is great power in them, power which even she is
unwilling to use."
A few long moments pass as the party of now strangers and old
friends stare at Strie'bog. To reveal such a secret even among
strange new friends - and total strangers like Kell - must have
pained Strie'bog a bit. But it could be that one vital clue to
track the Vong creatures. Finally, Ki'ama nods solemnly and speaks
out, "Impressive story telling skills, my friend. I do not know
all plant life of Katai but if this flower is only been to this
lake then it could be the Vong need certain bodies of water or
terrain to grow their things. They grew the orbs and staves at
the lake. So it must be clear normal bodies of water may not allow
them to do such things. It could be the rich soil or the by
products of the magic? There are no records of them searching
for such things so I could not begin to tell you where to look.
but I suspect unusual bodies of waters or recently changes bodies
of water. They will clearly need to grow their resources. I
will check with my personal herbalist on possible plant lift to
check for down in Katai. But my contact might have heard rumors
of such odd things. no evidence indicates that the Vong can
cast magic. I doubt they would due to their hatred. This is
likely why they choose Katai. To live with those like you might
improve their chances. There is evidence they have created or grown
animals to detect magic. The range and ability of these animals
is unclear. But they seem to be more patrol or sentry worthy
dog like animals than roaming province wide tracking beasts."
Fremea replays the past discussions in her head. It is quite
confusing, exciting and distracting at the same time. Vong? Hate
of magic? Katai? In just a short time of peace at the Vassa
Faerry hill to here she has been uprooted from a ex slave to
world saving faerry. But is she just a new form of slave working
for the Elder to do his bidding? Sure he is an old man but if a
all accounts of him are true why doesn't he fight? Fremea thought
human heads of states got into battles for glory? She recalls
the idea of the god involvement in the flying island. A sorted
amount of them must have been party to its evil and good. Then
she is surprised to hear the god or gods stopped A'kril and his
people by knocking them into a time-sleep trance for centuries.
Was that some intervention from a god guilty of the genocide
in the past or their action or was it agenda for a later event?
When the details come of the Vong she listens intently. She
flashes back to Caladan's village with her playing with the
kids who have a clear hardship life. The thought that Vong
would capture, torture and then kill kids is torture to Fremea.
At least humans in war just kill everyone. These Vong beasts seem
to take pleasure in torture to appease their own gods. In order
best to kill she makes mental notes of everything said here so
best to destroy the Vong threat.
As Ki'ama asks Strie'bog about his mother and the Forestal,
details the party knows but he doesn't, Fremea turns to Unali
and speaks to her quietly. "Since you understand your culture,
maybe you can help me to disguise myself as a child from there, so
that many will over look me and the possible weapons I will be
carrying with me."
Fremea turns around and then comes up with a question
on magical scanning in Katai, "Master Ki'ama, you say they will
search for magic items and watch for those wield it too, will they
have ways to detect innate abilities? I wish to watch out for
anything that will give our cover away. It sounds like these
things are very hardened armor, such that we will require many
strong weapons to just break through the armor. If we are not to
carry magical weapon improving on the strength of the weapon, what
are the weak points to aim for? I should be able to get to them to
use it better."
"I will come back to that," Ki'ama starts, "but as to weapons
that is a personal choice. Magic may be or may not be effective
against them depending on the weapon. But their hard armor could
easily damage or destroy some weapons. So if your choice should
be aware of this and risk of losing such weapons could be a factor
in your decision. As I said earlier Suca can help to give
a demonstration on what we know to be their weak spots. But
clearly necks in some areas, heads, arm pits, behind the knees
if no spikes worn and maybe feet are their weakest areas. The
crab like armor covers abdomen and arms. Some have been known
to do legs but that's more rare. Maybe a more skilled or higher
ranking Vong have those."
Fremea nods her thanks and considers fighting a being with
a 5-6 foot staff might be interesting. But it isn't nothing
one can learn tactics against. She glances over at the new
people she just meet up to four days ago like Farseeker, Strie'bog
and then there is Kell. She notices his features are as handsome
if not better than Raban's, even though it is hard to judge
humans as they all look alike. She wonders how Raban will react
for this clear handsome factor between Raban and Kell for women
and pride sake. This party seems to welcome any stranger thrown
in it with little issue. It seems the implied wish of the
Elder is to have Kell with this group. Just like he implied wish
for kiet. The party accepted him after his attempted assassination.
Yet, to accept a trader in such a mission could be quite strange.
She will have to study and observe this cute man.
Chion considers the past discussion as well. He hears the
concern of the others over magic. How some may require or depend
on magic. This mission might be a lesson in how a mage should
act without magic in the world. Then suddenly a memory flash comes
to him, a memory of Correl teaching Chion to spend a week in the
forest alone but to not use magic at all. He said he would know
if magic was used and for some reason Chion believed him. Correl
knew Chion was a big smug and over confident. But after only 5
days it was clear life without magic was more a challenge than
fighting another apprentice in magical test-duels. Thought he
was tempted Chion never used magic that week. He exited the
forest five pounds lighter, hungry, exhausted and educated.
Educated on forest survival and how life really works in the
world. After that Chion saw Correl more as a friend than a master.
Now back in the present, Chion stands and smiles, "I do not need
magic to kill in Katai." He pauses, knowing he got Z'leyra's
attention. "But that creates a problem of the past. I am unsure if
I have aged enough to be unknown in Katai. Should I be recognized
by anyone, I will undoubtedly put the party at risk. I will change
my hair, and scent prior to leaving. I have no problems with not
bringing magical items, though I do wish to return for them. I
would, however, suggest teleporting to southern Chosai and then
travelling over the border to Katai as an easier route. I can
easily return to most places in Chosai. There are roads between
the countries. And that way we will have a cover story for once we
have been over the border which will cover us at least to the last
Chosai town we go through. We can use the location magic before
crossing the border to see if the Vong are near northern Katai
without worry." He looks around. "There is no way that Katai will
allow this merry band to bring in weapons and armor of the kind
we have been used to wielding. Even as props for some play. As
entertainers we simply wouldn't be allowed to have such things.
Unless they have changed since my last... visit."
"You, " Ki'ama begins, "realize it would need a lot of magical
energy to teleport everyone to Chosai. So you say go from here
to south Chosai and enter the border through the north. That is
one feasible plan as well. I thought when you said southern Katai
you mean Lower Katai near the southern borders. I do not know
if or why you might be recognized. But your frame is a bit...
easy to find..." He quickly adds, "as would Raban's. But if
you fear being seen I doubt the few out of millions will see you.
The odds in theory are low."
Chion smiles and turns directly to the High Elder, "Your
excellency, I wish to ask a favor concerning the Vong. I wish that
you prepare a place for one to be detained. I wish to attempt to
teleport one back for study. May the God Beyond the Pale be praised
and willing. If successful, we can get to know their language and
culture and more. If you think it is wise for me to try, I might
need a device which can aid me and remain undetected while in
Katai."
"If even your high level teleport ability could be used on
them?" Ki'ama calculates in his mind. "Even using the highest
form of the spell you might only have a 1 in 3 chance of sending
him here. You may recall earlier I mentioned the flying craft
was found in the forest during Correl's wedding? There was a body.
The craft was a one Vong sized thing about the size of a small
wagon. We destroyed it and sent it into the sea. We were more
interested in the hood like thing he wore than the body. It soon
became brittle without its parent animal it seems and withered
away. We suspect that is how the Vong flyer talked to the animal
to guide it. The body was a typical warrior form like that found
in the gravesite where you found your first staff on the plains.
Where you saw the Claw. Though he was dead from the impact, by
the way the cause of his accident isn't known. Maybe the flying
animal ran out of energy or fuel or food or whatever it uses.
But it could've been a scout for the Vong. There is little to
learn from a body that thinks torture is as routine as drinking
a beer to some. Magic would be useless to learn their history
or background or even language. So we would need a willing
person to do so. If you wish to bring one back you may do so.
But I doubt seriously we would learn things from him. Plus we
don't know if they can sense each other like a hive mind. I
rather not bring them here. A land where they would have
a field day slaughtering us. This land above all others would
be a prize for conquest. If they took out the "evil" magic
people their gods would be so honored they would earn the rest
of the middle world. That is how I suspect they would see it.
I am glad the scout failed or this mission might be one of defense
and not of offense."
The party is surprised to hear Chion mention a god. In
almost two years in fact this is the biggest speech he has done
in a long time, if ever. Some didn't know he could even talk
that long. But to consider he might have a past in Katai intrigues
some and wonder what it is and how it could affect them.
The tension in the room increased for some reason but then
ebbed as quickly as it came after Chion sits down. After a few
moments, Ha'kell speaks, "It appears the implicit agreement is to
be a travelling entertainment group. Whilst I am no entertainer,
I can be the wagon driver and the cook, and maybe even the
announcer/money taker, glad handing the crowds we will surely
draw. One disadvantage of travelling this way is no stealth.
When did any of us see a travelling groups as this that didn't
want to be known far and wide? They want and need to be famous
to draw crowds and earn their living, making their presence known
and asking people to tell their friends. Being a trade group we
can be much more stealthy. How may trade groups go completely
unnoticed by most of the population?"
The party hears him mention about him collecting the money.
Just like a merchant. Some frown at the irony of this whole
mission. a cover story is required to hide true identity of a large
invading force into Katai. So to cover themselves up the party
must draw attention by posing as entertainers or traders. If only
the full party looked like Unali it would be a easy infiltration
mission with full stealth.
Ha'kell continues, "If we go as a group seeking fame I suggest
we all use different names and disguises while performing. For
some, mainly Raban, disguises may not be possible. We can work
around that easily I think. Others will fit very well. Fremea
can be dressed and act as either an orphan we took in, or an orphan
that ran away to join our merry band, or even one of our daughters.
She should be fine as long as no one suspects her of otherwise. I
don't want anything to happen to any of us."
Fremea grunts to herself. Fine he says. If you had your
wings held down and close to your body, hot and stuffy for days
or weeks then it might not be so fine. She grins at the though
of Kell having his arms tied to his body and try to act normal.
Kell doesn't seem to notice Fremea and continues, "I suggest
we bring as little magic as necessary. There are several stages
to the mission, and hopefully by the time we find the evil Vong
and need to do heavy fighting Chion can teleport back and bring
us our most useful gear. This supposes we find them first before
any major fighting. We first need to find them, and don't know
how long that will take."
"Teleporting that far is extremely useful. If I had that
several years ago...," Kell pauses a few moments, " hrmm....,"
everyone notices he seems very sad at this point, then clears and
his face returns to the mission. "Anyway, he can return for gear
as necessary I imagine."
"I have an idea or three also about the magic we must bring,"
glancing at Strie'Bog, "including your instrument. I have done
this before, including stopping magic from finding magic. It is
always risky though, we know only when it fails."
"I care not which route we take, or if teleport most of the
distance, only that we have at least a week travelling together
to practice our act and disguises. For either the entertaining
group or any other options. What about travelling in smaller
groups and meeting up at a single pre-determined location?"
Farseeker speaks up, "that could be dangerous if we got
separated and discovered. Tactically speaking it would be better
to go as one large group. But it really doesn't matter to me."
Ha'kell nods at Farseeker and turns to Ki'ama, "Who is the
contact in Katai? Where and when will we find the contact, and
how long does the ritual take?" Pausing again and taking a deep
breath Kell continues, "If I were the Vong, I'd be in Katai City
to take people. In that large a city no one will miss thousands
of people, and there are homeless people to take as well. I've
traded there several times in the past, so I have a vague
knowledge of the people and customs but I am no expert."
Ki'ama replies, "the apprentice will need at least an hour
for the ritual to be performed each time it is needed. As to
Katai I doubt they would be in the seat of power. Gray beings
among humans would be a bit hard to miss. The Imperial Guard
and the Iron City defenses would make it hard for them to pass
unseen. I suspect they'll be in the wilderness. As to the
contact I'll return to that in a minute."
Kell nods and finally states, "The Vong threat must be
stopped." Then wonders if he could earn money on the threat,
maybe publish some books or something.
From his seat Kiet chimes in his vote, "I would personally
like to travel by sea again. We could easily pass as a combined
troupe of entertainers AND some merchants. Those others who would
be not well suited to entertaining or selling could be considered
as bodyguards. In fact, those bodyguards could be the reason the
entertainers came to be with the merchants...as protection for
them too. I, for one, would appreciate the opportunity to search
for and purchase certain items, such as a large pearl."
"I," Kiet continues, "have been along the coasts of Kll'maun
territory and would not relish crossing it on foot or by horse.
We would most certainly not survive." Ben'dar grunts at that.
If Kiet thinks the party would lose a battle against barbarians
what chance would they have against the powerful Vong? "Sailing
down to Chunrey to trade and entertain would possibly be very
lucrative. As they are always fighting the Kll'maun, they often
seek good entertainment to relieve themselves temporarily of the
troubles in this life. Picking up some trade items there and
taking them south to Katai would be not at all unusual."
"I have some skills in disguising people (EL25-30 or so) and,
if needed, could use magic to do so. This would require, however,
that any device or item that nullifies illusions remain behind. I
would suggest that anyway...as our opponents do not seem to use or
have ability in illusions." _
Kiet finishes by looking at Ki'ama, "Master, how long before
we must leave, and when must we meet with your agents? That may
influence our preparations."
Ki'ama replies, "I would like as soon as possible. I have
no idea of the Vong timeline. In fact I'm afraid we are already
three months behind. If they were here at Lake Oca, even a
scouting party, then time is even more critical. Records are
vague but most speculate they must need time to develop a way
to open a portal or gate to their world. We simply don't know
how long this times. At the time of the plain war rumors abound
the Vong were first seen only months before they invaded in full
force. So we could already be too late. If they have the gate
open then it would only be a matter of time before they bring
in their new army for conquest. As to my contact there is no
rush in that as he will not know your coming."
All this time Unali has remained silent and passive. Taking
in every comment and question. She finally decides it is time to
speak up, "My Katai is a large and populated country, but with so
many in the cities, there is still a lot of open land, wild and
untamed, where you may find no one or just a few farmers. Still,
it is not a land that we could travel unnoticed."
"As a band of merry entertainers, we would need to draw a lot
of attention to ourselves and stop at all towns and cities to make
our cover believable. Travel would be slow and it would be hard to
disappear suddenly as word of our coming would travel ahead."
"As a merchant caravan we would draw less attention of the
farmers and citizens, but a lot more from the town guards and
tariff masters. Especially coming from the north, where there is
only Chosai to enter from by road. Only if the contact is in
northern most Katai the road would be the best way."
"In both cases we would have to travel over the plains of
the Sarghut or the forest of the Kll'maun. Both kill first and
ask question ... not at all."
"We might pose as a escort for a minor noble from Marentia or
its neighboring countries who is coming in search of exotic goods
and treasure. There are many fine silks, furs and jewels to be
bought in the cities and such visits are infrequent but not unheard
of. Of course, such a noble would arrive from the south, and most
likely by ship."
"That would mean we need to find a captain who is willing and
capable of transporting all of us. I miss Damon sorely now. He would
know how to transport us and all our 'items' with little risk. But,
it will give me a chance to polish up my seamanship. We could land
at or near some of the coastal cities and get information. Possible
a ship could even travel some way up the larger rivers and we could
easily find places to get ashore with little fuzz."
"I would also like to learn some of these skills of placing
merchandise where it will not be found. Together with the spell
Kiet is talking for making magic disappear from sight, we should
be able to bring our items along. That would save Chion the mana
expenditure. I fear that we will need all the power we can against
the threat of the grays."
"My vote is we travel to the sea and find a ship. We could
even buy a ship with the profit from the castle alone."
"As for cover story, we need a noble. Chion does not look
exotic enough by far for these lands. He could pose as the local
guide. He will be happy to know he brought his 'wife' along. /Don't
get any funny ideas./ Ben'dar, Caladan and Farseeker are the
obvious body guards. We have personal entertainers and bards, Kiet
and Strie'bog. The personal healer Z'leyra. A female companion,
Fremea, who would probably be kept out of sight of sailors and
city guards, as she is too pretty for their own good. Chion is the
seaman hired to come along as he knows their ways. Arawn would be
the noble. I am sure he can pull off the required aloofness. Raban
would better pose as a warrior than a bard, bit both could do. Kell
is the friend or merchant who travels along as companion and will
do the trading as he is skilled in the ways of traders."
"Now we need to find out more about where we need to go."
Ki'ama leans back and stares at Unali with a graceful smile,
"if I was only thirty years younger....I like women who can think
not just fight. Your idea is quite impressive in its completeness."
Ki'ama places finger to chin and starts thinking of any possible
flaws to this plan.
Z'leyra seconds Unali's proposal, "I think Unali has an
excellent idea. While it might be 'interesting' to travel as
entertainers it would likely be far faster and attract less
attention for us to be a 'noble's party' escorting the noble
through Katai. This WILL require a considerable outlay of gold to
carry off successfully. The noble has to travel in proper style,
paying for the finest room in the inn, gifts and gratuities for
those encountered (don't call them bribes), et cetera. The
suggestion of using different names might have merit as well."
"I am thinking of buying a draft horse, loading it up with all
the equipment we might need but don't want found, then using
Oblivion on it so that I can recall the horse and all the equipment
when needed. Hopefully this will avoid detection by nosy inspectors
of any magic from the equipment. I suspect it is unlikely that my
having cast an Oblivion spell will be detectable. However we can
and probably should test that hypothesis."
"As far as recruiting the local Katai forces to fight the
Vong...is this a bad idea? If Katai notables end up being possessed
by a Claw or something I suppose it would be. But we may need the
sheer numbers Katai can provide if the Vong are too entrenched and
numerous already."
Ki'ama slams a fist into his other hand in glee, "This is a
excellent idea, Unali. The more I think of it, it covers all
aspects of the possible danger. A noble group would be able to
even ignore some searches. A good back story for the noble would
have to be done. But you know..." he pauses briefly and grins,
"I may know the perfect person to play the noble." Ki'ama leans
forward and glances to the back.
"He would not enjoy the task sir." As if reading the mind of
his lord, Suca replies quickly.
"But it actually fits. He is after all a count in blood. He
walks and talks the snobby way of nobles. He above all others in
this group might pass best as one. One to keep the security of
this mission at bay. He has always said he wished to leave one
day and adventure but never got around to it. He might still
have his old crest..." From behind the party Suca is heard giving
a sigh of grief.
The party look to each other and wonder who the High Elder
is talking about. Could he mean Chion?
"Yes. It might work. Unali would be the only other good
choice of a Katai noble. She would have to dress better. But
she could easily pass for one. Chion would fit in Lower Katai
as a noble there as most down there tend to be...larger. Arawn
could pass as an outsider noble. But outside nobles tend to be
expected to travel to Katai. Frankly, I find that too dangerous
to visit there. The city is too big and protected. Arawn may
act like a noble but he would not fit in what Katai tend to think
of nobles." Ki'ama looks around at the other party for other
candidates for a noble. "Z'leyra has the dignity, Kell the looks,
Caladan the bearing but Strie'bog doesn't have the skin. No if
we are to have a Katai style noble then it has to be someone else
if Unali doesn't want the job." He looks at the party and finally
gives his answer. "I suspect Zhou Kiwat would best be suited as
a noble in this group. He could surely pass for one and we could
arrange for forged documents. His family comes from one of the
long lines but minor houses. Nobles do travel for business or
pleasure. The relationship Chosai has with Katai would help
for a possible vacation there. If your group decides on this
plan he could join your group. We could supply a nice ship to
transport the horses. Once in some city if you travel over land
then a wagon could be purchased for him to sit and play the role.
I'm not sure a ship could transport a full wagon and all the
horses but I'm no expert on that subject. Yes. It fits in
with everyone. Guards, court jesters, entertainers, healer,
scribes, personal merchant and servants. If you choose this plan
Zhou would have to be a middle level noble as anything too high
would cause more investigation. A duke could afford his own
private ship but lower nobles not. So it would fit in for renting
a ship or a caravan. Typically there are four counts and around
thirty odd Barons in each city-state. So he would have to be
one of those. Barons might fit better and less scrutiny."
Ki'ama continues, "as to Katai forces helping. As a Baron
he might be able to get some garrison to respond but they would
have to verify. But that's about it. I personally think Katai
people are safer, as are we, if they don't get involved. I
believe this group who can take down forces numbering 10 to 1
previously can handle the Vong threat. The more Katai that
get involved the more wide spread the ....eyes of the Imperial
seat are called in. That could lead to threats to you and to
the lands here."
Ki'ama then stands up again and spreads his arms. It seems
most of the initial questions have been asked. "Now let's return
to the subject of the Katai defenses. We know of a lot of these
details from experience. The Chaos masters in their ...wisdom
see fit to test their apprentinces. They believe sending them
out into the world is a test. Some send one or some send two or
three at a time. Some send them to the forest or plains to
survive some determined time. Some in their infinite wisdom have
seen fit to do the ultimate test of their subjects. They send
them to Katai to retrieve objects. Usually it is something the
master knows about like a particular painting only a certain artist
can sell to order of the apprentice. It could be a certain style
of boots with a special signature pre-determined by the master.
Stuff like that is proof of their quest. I have heard of stories
of those sent to Katai and thus we know of some of their defenses.
Over the last two hundred years the Katai have seemed to form
secret unofficial alliances with secret society groups. Even
though the majority of Katai hates magic, the government isn't
stupid. They know even a small percentage say one percent of
the population knows magic to this day. That would mean the
equivalent of a full sized city twice the size of Sivas. So
the government knows magic users and casters exist. But like
rats it is impossible to wipe out completely. These secret society
groups have their own agenda. Either power in the government,
riches, some elaborate religious view of magic or something else.
They help the government round up like bounty hunters these
magic users. They are paid for by the nobles and imperial family.
Some have official zones of control or papers to work with. But
if one of these teams of hunters found a magic user and turned
them over to the wrong person they could be arrested as well."
"These groups over the last 200 years have setup certain devices
and zones of magic detection. Katai city itself is one of the most
observed cities due to the paranoid nature of the imperial family.
This is why you should avoid the capital. Most cities have some
form of walls for defense or simple design. These entry and
exit gates may have such devices on them. These are the critical
spots. Some devices are simple fakes. We know this simply cause
the vast empire is too large to observe everywhere. But the public
is safe since they don't know its fake and are confident in even
the simple fakes. The power and energy to build such devices
would be too great. So they simply make fakes and do random
checks. As devices they may be over gates in obvious places, some
are hidden feet behind a gate in a place the person has to pass or
some are in the market place. Residential places should not have
any if they exist. The marketplaces and business districts are
likely to have other random devices. Some may be decorated as
other objects while others are obvious like gleaming jewels or
talisman like objects. Merchants have been known to secretly pay
these groups for 'protection' and devices around their shops.
Some houses, mainly the rich elite, do the same but as a general
rule most devices aren't found in residential zones. You can
be sure devices on local city government buildings would have
them as well and not be fakes. These non-moving devices simply
detect presence of magic. Some may glow or send a message to
a person nearby. It all depends on how the society sets up the
device. Now, when you entered you saw my guards have hand held
devices. These mobile devices are used by most guards. But even
though you might think every guard at every gate uses them this
is dead wrong. Guards that do use them tend to be paid by the
local noble and trained to use them. Since they are using them
they are unofficial official guards. So if caught they are
denied to be working for the noble. Some nobles pay outright
guards working for the secret groups to do the local scans.
These are usually at places like gates, bridges, port districts,
government buildings and some marketplaces. But again not
every gate or entry into a city is observed. You could walk right
by guards and never be scanned or if there are devices they could
be fake or missing all together. The apprentices seem to say
it is a on average 40% chance a entry point will have such real
or hand held devices. It is remote in villages and town maybe
5%. In Katai city it is 80%. In most marketplaces it is around
20%. But then there are the private owned devices that sway the
odds. Some nobles even have paid for their own devices for
paranoia sake."
"The hard part are the random tests. Apprentices say that
these secret groups can simply walk around carrying devices
in plains clothes and scan. Some say teams in wagons, those
wagons with devices on them, roam streets. These are more
purely random and may be during times the local noble is fearful
or can afford such scans. Rumors are that in any given city-state
at least 1 or 2 magic users are found each year. Maybe more in
certain places. Katai reports at least two dozen are found and
executed in their city each month. But that I believe, is pure
propaganda for the masses. Simple alert folks can find these
people as they tend to scan the crowd with their eyes and look
nervous. Once someone is detected and guards are there they
will arrest immediately. If a secret group member found someone
and he or she is alone, he will then try to follow, observe and
then report his findings. If he can get help by other group
members or guards he will do so."
"The two most obvious ways for finding magic is through the
Sidh like powers Mana Reading and Mana Sensing. But there are
spells of this kind that can be learned. These spells are placed
into the devices. Since ironically, many of these secret groups
are wizards themselves but ignored by the government, their power
may be limited in growth. So for Reading ability which is likely
what the majority of devices use would be moderate or low level
power. Based on this theory their range might be only 10-60 feet.
Mana sensing tends to be harder to place in some devices than
others. But based on average ability their range could be up
to 150 feet. But both spells and thus devices, are blocked by
physical obstacles. At least I believe both are blocked? As
a result guards or teams have been trained to look for smuggled
things or search bodies. Random searching is common in some
areas. Bribery is also common to avoid such searches. So
don't fear that a city itself can be scanned. Simply avoiding
a device or person by a couple hundred feet should be sufficient
to avoid trouble. This assumes low level ability. There could
be a few special secret group members with higher ability. But
that information is not known to us."
"There is the problem of roads. The majority of roads are
are not scanned. But what if a noble or guard or these secret
groups pass you? You will have to use common sense on the
road to look for dangers there."
"Someone asked about illusions. Any device could be powered
to include special detection of illusions or oblivion or other
spells. Even things in oblivion leaves some aura around he
caster who has it. We suspect some secret groups use no devices
but use natural items to void magic or illusion in this case.
I believe Z'leyra wears one such thing. So yes illusions can
be detected if the device is there to do so. Plus with the sheer
number of people in the empire the odds of someone seeing through
such is more high than in other places. Katai city with 200,000
could have on average 2,000 people who might see through simple
illusions for example. Then there are the paranoid nobles who
believe behind every corner is a invisible wizard waiting to
take his soul. These secret groups also sell Revelation type
devices or wards to void such magics. Mainly on estates or
government buildings."
"There is no single best strategy to avoid magic detection.
It could be just one's luck to smuggle all items, use magic to
avoid magic and then walk by a powerful person who has some divine
method to detect magic. Stuff like that happens. But the best
general method is through shielding. I believe Kiet mentioned
that earlier. A mana shield can be used to block magic detection.
But if the detector or detecting spell is more powerful than
it will still be seen. So shields are as effective as the
caster and searcher. It could be quite costly to hide items
and then shield them all. With that said, the secret groups
aren't stupid. They know, through capture of apprentices from here,
of the shield spells. So they have in the last few decades come
up with those defenses as well. Though frankly they aren't
as empire wide as the detection systems. Some more rich or
powerful nobles may have powerful shield blockers or shield
detectors, spells to simply detect for mana shields. Yes, even
shields have some aura though light. If you are specifically
looking for an ant in a room you might just find it. But you
have to be looking for it. But in my opinion the best way to
avoid detection is simply not to take magical items. For those
who are trained or innate in magic there is no way to keep yourself
at home and go too." Ki'aam smiles and continues, "For those
shields might work but duration is limited and using an item
to shield yourself is defeating the purpose of hiding objects
or leaving them here at the same time."
"Everything has some aura to it. If even a sidh were trained
or strong enough they could see this. Scholars and mystics
believe rooms, statues, rocks, animals, plants and all people
have auras. To attune detectors they must detect above the common
peasant aura who may have no idea of how to use magic. This
is the divine touch on each person or thing. So with that said,
obviously certain things like magical items have a clear beacon
to such sense detection. A person like Z'leyra is so bright in
magical aura it might be seen miles away with good enough senses.
But a person like Oby who carries no magic on him would just
look like a normal person. So the more stuff you take the simple
more risk you have to yourself and the party. Even if a guard
doesn't have the training or device some things will be immediately
seen as magic. These are the obvious magic wand, staff, amulet,
talisman or anything with runes on it. Such things will result
in immediate execution. Simply detecting magic will only
result in arrest and likely later execution after more investigation
is done. This is why books or items, even clothing or armor,
would not be wise to wear. Even the mundane stupid guard will
notice these right away. Even the peasant who couldn't tell you
what a wand does can likely tell a rune from a cave painting.
This opens detection of such items to the majority of the Katai
total population."
"For those things that must be taken you risk doing so but
should smuggle or shield them. But it might only take one smart
guard to ruin the day for the party. If you are dependent on
magic items you are likely going to have a bad time. If your
like Oby then you will have no problems at all. Just think
that you will be up around and against people who fear magic
and hate magic. So why use magic items at all for defense?
Leave them here is just common sense. For other things you
should judge for yourself."
"By the way, for obvious reasons no magic shops exist in the
empire. This also includes herbalist selling any natural magical
items. Shops selling such will be closed up quickly. I am sure
black markets for such exist. Even Katai people may still buy
such things at great risk to themselves."
"As to what devices look like on placed items they may tend
to be round gems or jewels. Talismans or amulets at doors or
windows might be common as well. These tend to be the fake ones
as this would be open violations of the law. So such devices
might be more mundane like knobbed structures on a gate or wall
or market stall. Usually something disguised as something else.
As to hand held devices, Oby can show you what we use here. Most
tend to be hand sized amulets or talismans. Unconfirmed rumors
say some use rings, necklaces, or such spells on other objects
like swords or armors for example. It all depends on how it
is designed, blocked, shielded, bonus detection spells, how
much it costs and the power of the maker. Those factors just
can't be said for a general rule to follow. Simple common sense
and perception will be key in this quest. Arawn and Fremea can
likely train the party on how they react and observe when they
encounter or enter into places."
"Smuggling is common in Katai, especially in Lower Katai where
even some nobles get into the game. Upper areas will be more
prone to how well trained a guard is to detect smuggling areas."
Ki'ama goes back to the board and removes the picture of the
two Vong warriors. He replaces it with the map of Katai again.
"Here is upper Katai...here is Da'qaid in north east Katai. Going
south from here are two cities on the coast, Li'jian and Jiuquo.
My contact is here in Jiuquo. He is an independent business
person. He owes me favors so will help you at all cost to learn
information about various things. His own network of merchants,
sailors, traders and even farmers tell him things. His information
network is about one fourth of the empire." He waves a hand
over the north east quadrant of Katai. "He may be a rogue but
he will be helpful. I will give you his name and address later
when you are ready to go. The city there has about 50,000 people
so its even bigger than Sivas."
"Now we simply have no idea of their timeline. It was only
months before the Vong weren't there and then the next they
were invading and taking over one third of the plains. We have
already it seems missed three or four months. If they are
building up resources like orb, armor, vehicles and staff groves
then they are planning more conquest. We don't know how long
these things take to grow. it is clear they do not come from
our world so maybe they could only open a temporary gate or
portal to send scouts ahead and prepare. A small force. If
this is the case we have time. But if they are near to getting
this gate to open forever then the middle world is doomed. They
will simply bring in troops and supplies and soon Katai's
problems will become our problems. So I would suggest leaving
as fast as possible. But I also suggest taking enough time to
establish your cover story. If you for example visit in Chosai
or some port cities your presence will be documented. If you
suddenly teleport or ship into port overnight and not be known
more suspicion will be held. Time is both a curse and asset here."
Ki'ama gives a sigh of relief that this is all done. Then
he turns to the party, arms up and raises in a sign of peace.
"What do you say? Can you do it? Can you stop the Vong threat
and be the world heroes, even though few will know of it. Can
you work as one unit to succeed in this mission? Will your fear
of magic detection or your dependence on magic or magic items
make you more a liability than an asset? Are there any more
questions to things I have not answered fully or forgotten?"
"Oby will provide, if needed, Katai style clothing, food
and basic supplies. Suca will demonstrate later how we believe
best to handle the Vong in a fight. But you should act as soon
as you can. Depending on how you decide a wagon can either be
paid for near Katai or in Katai. We could supply a basic one
here but it could take a few days to equip it with smuggling
style compartments. Do you have a few days? Then if you decide
on a ship, it has to carry a full wagon? Ships should have
no problem doing horses but wagons are larger deals. So all
these things you will have to decide."
Actions? Comments?
Next Update...Monday...
GM: Wow! A very large update. Over 1450 lines. And at least
1000 of those were your posts :). It took four day to
get those done and then to the new stuff. Amazing but
took awhile why delay in the monday update. I love the
role playing stuff and its great. But it was alot of time
to prepare and finish. Not your fault just life, work, tv
and other stuff. I started this Saturday and worked on it
since then 3-4 hours each night. So it took awhile. This
doesn't mean you have to stop or shorten your posts. By
all means continue! Just be advised that if this happens
again the amount of posts could/would delay things. But
the more detail out in one time is better than detail
out over weeks. So there is a good and bad to it. So
no I'm not complaining. Just wanted to make sure you guys
realize that due to sheer amount updates can and will be
delayed. So don't be shocked and upset if the update isn't
out on a regular basis. I will try to get them out as
fast as I can. Usually for "Monday's" update I work on it
Monday night for 5 or so hours. If I can't finish it then
it will be delayed. If its not out by 3am Tuesday morning
EST. If I see, like this one, it will take much much longer
than I will start it as soon as I can like Saturday or so.
So in those cases as I get posts I will work on them. But
this again doesn't mean you are required to post right
away if your busy. It's helpful but not mandatory. For
"Friday" update I work on it thursday night for up to 3
hours. Sometimes I don't go in till later on Friday so stay
up for 2 more hours and work on it. But for those updates
if its not out by 1 or 3am Friday morning it won't be out
depending on Friday's work schedule. For Friday's update
I tend to work on it Wednesday or Thursday. I like to
have a break sometime! If like this update it is delayed
then Monday's might flow into a Wednesday posting. For
those times the Wednesday posting will be considered the
Friday update. Since that doesn't give you enough time
to reply and act. In those cases if its out past Tuesday
then its for Friday giving extra time to reply/act. If
it goes out on Tuesday then I will still do a Friday update.
If a friday update is delayed I will tend to delay it till
the following Monday. That's how I tend to work it. Just
some basic guidelines to follow. For those early birds who
scan the website the update might not be 100% done even
when I post it. Alex is kind enough to proof read it as
I..err my dwarves..make mistakes in the editing. So it
isn't officially done till I email it out then it is
official. So if you read it and see errors then your
probably reading a non-edited version :) In some cases
where he can't proofread it then I just hope I make sense
the updates as like this one sometimes its too hard to
reread twice and go over. :)
GM: New player tips
* OOC: If you wish to post something not from your character
then doing something like OOC or using your real name is
sufficient notation.
* Email/private conversations. If you email another player
in some private conversation please CC me a copy only
so I don't get surprised by deals made behind the scenes. :)
* Old things. You can post back on old scenes if you wish
like some did in the Breakfast time period. This is fine
if it is role playing. But if it might change the present
things like "Oh and I grabbed that key to the hidden chest
in that desk..." Then if its too late for that action its
too late. Since it could affect the present events time wise.
GM: Majority of folks seem to not care which update format I have
used. That's good. No complaints so far. It is a bit tedious
doing the X speaks, Y says stuff to ensure you guys know who
is talking. Only so many ways to say those things and I'm
no novelist. :) At any rate, you may have noticed in this
update the Recap section is redone. In past I post in full
the posts you make. This is to ensure that you see your
post got to me. The other method is to confirm it is on my
game site. If its not there or recap section I never go it.
From now on the recap section will be smaller. I will only
include the FIRST line of the pots you make. If its dialogue
it goes in the update section. If its OOC stuff then it
will stay in the recap section for reminders or such. I
will place GM notes or comments if applicable there. The
recap section helps me to organize as well. When I
work on a update I tend to work in sequence. So you may
notice in the above it is in order of posts. In some cases
like the breakfast section I insert posts among other
sections. The recap section helps me to figure out in order
where the stuff goes. But usually in sequence so stuff
at the bottom may be not covered until I get to it then
I will try to find some section to insert it or just
in order of the update text.
GM: Still working on another new player's sheet. Hope to have it
finished soon. So he will get a vote if he wishes.
GM: Votes and tally section - N/V - No Vote
1) Cover story
A) Entertainment troupe B) Merchant/trade group
C) Noble group D) A+B
E) A+B+C F) Other, not mentioned above
G) Don't care H) Abstain
Player Vote Player Vote
Arawn N/V Ben'dar N/V
Caladan N/V Chion A
Farseeker N/V Fremea N/v
Kell D Kiet D
Raban A Strie'bog N/V
Unali C Z'leyra N/V
New Player N/V
Total: 13, Majority is 7
2) Method of Travel
A) Teleport B) Overland, SW - Plains
C) Overland, due south D) Overland, SE, Chosai
E) By ship down coastline F) Other
G) Don't care H) Abstain
Player Vote Player Vote
Arawn A+D? Ben'dar B
Caladan N/V Chion N/V
Farseeker N/V Fremea N/V
Kell G Kiet E
Raban N/V Strie'bog N/V
Unali E Z'leyra A
New Player N/V
Total: 13, Majority is 7
Note: If I have your vote wrong let me know. I have placed
them based on comments in your posts and best guess. I
will figure out majority as best I can. If you wish to
change your vote you can. This is the quickest way to
resolve these issues. If you vote don't care I will put
your vote in the group with the highest votes. If abstain
then it won't count at all same as for N/V no vote.
GM: One final warning. Week of April 27-May 2nd. I will be
going on another cruise. So those 2 updates will not
be coming out. I hope the party has decided on the
big decisions by then. But if not you will have that
entire week to dicker over it. You guys can post all
you want till its decided. I will react to stuff when
I get back that weekend. I need a vacation from all the
IBT and work. :) So basically it looks like only 2
more updates next week then a week delay.
GM: Whew! I'm finally done! Now I can...oh darn go to bed.
Another factor in update delays will be summer and spring
storms. Last couple days we had big storms here. I had
to turn off computer at least twice. So storms can be
a delay factor. Enjoy the update. Hope I made some sense
in it!...whew.... I thought about doing this into two
updates but figure it is okay for now. Just lots of reading.
Reading might take you 20-30 min but me hours to do . :)
Keep in mind for Teleport purposes there will be 12 people
at the very least. If Zhou and ritual apprentice that's
2 more and then there is the new player for a possible new
total of 15. Then there are at least 12 horses and likely
1-3 more draft or donkeys. So at least 12-15 animals.
Then if you guys need a wagon. Based on that it could be
costly and at least 3-4 maybe 5 teleports.
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