[pnpgm] Game Update #111 - File #632 - Fremea rejoins party
Scott Adams
longshot at darktech.org
Tue Feb 10 08:54:41 CET 2009
HT Alias/Player Character Name Type Status/Notes Sex
-- -----------------------------------------------------------------
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
-- Tobie Bonahoom........Fremea............Sidh....NormalFaerry Fe
Do David Sanders.........Kiet.Sunan........Acrobat Normal/Human Ma
R? J H Hooten............Raban.Usherwood...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 #111 in sequence (file #632)
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Admin Notes: None.
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[Recap]
From Raban: [Re: Actions]
I forgot Raban claimed the fine wine to make more angelica
potions. There are some bottles, are they small enough to be
useful for that as well?
Not mentioned is the Seker's Collar which Raban has a claim on
Other than that Raban will donate his share to help pay for
making him some armor or other items as others had mentioned
This should be posted to RP sections in a bit
It takes Raban some time to work out all the details but it seems
to him some more outspoken people seem to be the greedy ones and
not really in need of more money. So perhaps just giving what
share he had to the group is not the best way. But meanwhile
there were other things he needed to answer.
Seeking out Unali, Raban says to her "Unali, I have given it
much thought and you are right to a large extent. None of the
ladies here needed much protection as they are all capable of
defending themselves and more. Some, maybe all, could hurt me
in a fight, though from what I have seen none could easily say
they would win, not even yourself. But the odd magics you have
make that a tough call and I could be far wrong.
I do not like to hurt others but it far too easy for me to do
so. I think it was possible for me to have killed any of the
enemies we fought in a single blow even the metal man and that
is not from much magical aid. But where I lacked is protection,
I took more damage than any of the others, maybe more than a
few combined. And a little Armor would have stopped much of
that. I did not mind getting hurt as much of that was to
prevent or minimize the damage to others. Even as well protected
and as skilled as you are, or even the other ladies, you would
not have wanted to be surrounded by so many opponents. In that I
made a large difference and in a few other cases. So I feel I
did do what I came for and even such formidable ladies as this
group has can use some protection... But I could have done better
than I did. And if I need to be in more battles like this one,
then I will need to risk having better armor or weapons. I just
hope I do not become the monster it makes me feel like to do
that. So many see meas such a monster as it is, I would hate
to prove them right..."
"And I thank you for your concern about my safety, its an odd
feeling having someone think they need to protect me. And I
suppose if getting hurt is any indication, I needed some
protection. Though I feel much of that was my Goddess reminding
me of my failings, she also would prefer I do not fail in my
duties. I assure you I can do far better than I have shown so
far. I made a few poor decisions because I did not know what
everyone could do or where they needed the help. Now I have a
little better idea of that. But if your opponent gets lucky,
then only the armor makes the biggest difference. I took many
small wounds that could have been avoided, and that is something
that can be fixed by better armor. I think I need to speak with
Z'leyra about that. Thank you for helping teach me that not all
women are helpless but like anyone else they may still need
protecting. I think I will do better protecting some of the
men too at need. Working with so many people requires broader
thinking than I usually allow myself. And that may be why my
Goddess guided me here, to broaden my views and learn something
new. From now on I will be protecting friends and maybe they
will do the same for me when needed."
Eventually Raban gets a chance to talk with Z'leyra.
"Z'leyra, it has taken me much labored thought and advice from
others to decide I must risk having heavier armor. You had
mentioned the possibility of making me some, and it would seem
I need such help. Since the group seems intent on giving me
such a large amount from the things found, I can give all that
to you to offset the costs involved."
"Something I have been working on myself has been making a
stronger bow, but so far my skill is not up to the task. I may
not be able to make such a bow from wood and I do not work with
metals much. The only weapons I use much are my bow and fist. I
am an expert in both of those and see little reason to use
anything else. So those are another area I should seek magical
improvements on if its possible. Are these things you have time
to help me with?"
<Raban can be long winded, it helps clarify things to himself
to think out loud at times. That should be enough fluff for this
update?>
Any system will balance out if the group stays together long
enough. I have always been one fond of using the found treasures
whenever possible. So claims with leftovers shared is fine with
the player, hopefully no one is too greedy.
Raban, unfortunately, is not greedy so will only claim something
he can use.
But in this world, that may work out just fine.
I have heard rumors the GM uses Karma and other balances against
you, so too much good stuff and it could hurt! ;)
I will admit that is a rarity, a cosmic balance to offset such
factors, allows playing a character like Raban without him being
punished for it. Or at least I think I heard that... maybe it
was a dream.. or a nightmare!
GM: Ack. The bottles are a bit big. Think of old fashioned
milk bottles or glass coke bottles. Too big for one dose.
Your best bet is to buy small flasks like for salt. As to
collar claim see below. I'll put your share of the gold
in your sheet at the end then you can decide. Its hard
to figure out who will get the donation so it can be
dealt with later. Rumors? Who tells you these things. Tell!
Sounds like a stupid GM.
------------------
From Ben'dar: [Re: Actions]
To Sven: "If this Itom is behind the attack, then we should not
let it go unanswered. Nor should we leave such a treacherous
enemy at our backs. I say we track down Itom, and butcher her!"
Ben'Dar is in favor of dealing with Itom before returning to the
High Elder.
To Unali: "And how would you know how a lady likes to be
treated?"
he says with a mischievious grin. "Besides, you've been
wanting me to do that ever since we met!"
GM: Ack.
------------------
From Z'leyra: [Re: Actions]
Z'leyra responds "I would be honored to make armor for you. I
could include gauntlets and boots that could assist your
incredible hand to hand fighting skills. What type armor would
you want? I can make and enchant leather, chain or plate. But
the tougher the starting material the longer it will take to
make. For instance plate armor alone would take at least seven
weeks. Perhaps chainmail, helm, gauntlets and boots could be
done in five to six weeks of effort. Such would protect you from
minor blows and greatly reduce injury from greater blows,
similar to what I wear. It would only take a couple weeks to
outfit you in fully enchanted leather...but that would still
allow some injury from lesser blows and would wear out much
faster."
"Back when I was less adept at enchantment I used to wear
enchanted ringmail covering enchanted leather or cloth but it
now takes me less time to make and fully enchant brigandine,
scale or banded ring which provides as much protection and
lasts longer. Fully enchanted these provide just a bit better
protection than normal plate armor. That would be the least
armor I would suggest any wear while adventuring and fighting
such opponents as we often seem to face. Those that melee on
the front lines should have armor even better than that. Armor
such as Ben'Dar or I wear. Ben'Dar's leather started out as
tough as chainmail and I enchanted it further."
"Unfortunately I am not yet a bowyer, so I cannot make and
enchant a bow fit for you...yet. Someday perhaps. As far as
costs...I consider creating the equivalent of one magic armor
and one magic weapon for each fellow party member to be part of
my share in the party...a way to make all of us both more
effective and more survivable. If you choose to retire from
the party, well we can consider the matter anew. Gauntlets
enchanted to boost your close combat skills will count as your
magical weapon. Remember that there are others waiting for me
to have time to create these items for them as well. Time is a
precious commodity for me as I have many things I must do and
must divide up my time to do them. Possibly we shall start with
just the armor and create the rest when more time becomes
available. Some, such as Xian, chose to not have me make
such items for them or can create their own."
GM: Ack.
------------------
From Chion: [Re: Actions]
Since we have been doing it method 1 all this time (even though
I forget), Chion would have voted that way... I was under the
impression we subtracted valueable items from the lot and if it
was zero or less we just got the item. I also recall "dibs"
being a "take turns and play nice" thing, whereby if you call
dibs in one adventure, you don't in the next, etc... until
everyone has gotten dibs on something nice (another reason Chion
has pretty well stayed out of all dibs discussions this time
around).
Anyway, I stand corrected, and method 1 is fine with Chion.
Obviously, he would like a chance at some time to study the
armor, as he has been trying for several adventures to collect
armor to study different designs. This is mostly because he is
a master armorsmith and wants to be able to make armor from
different parts of the world/different time periods. Eventually.
Somewhere along the way, when the party stops for a short while,
Chion laughs out loud. When asked (no doubt the curiousity will
get to someone) he will reply, "At least I am not married."
GM: Ack. No problem. Glad you understand. As to armor I'm sure
it can be studied at length by all. As to the above joke I
forgot the original thread/joke. Alex says it was a joke
but I forget the reference. You have good memory!
------------------
From Raban: [Re: Actions]
Raban listens carefully to what Z'leyra says and then replies
"Then it is best you decide based on how much time you can
afford, as anything is better than what I have now. One that
will not break too easily would be nice. But if you do not need
money what can I do to help you? I am an skilled masseuse so I
can give you massages to relax the muscles that are tight from
the work? There must be something I can do for you in return."
GM: Ack.
------------------
From Z'leyra: [Re: Actions]
Z'leyra responds
"I am not saying that I can't use money. If you wish to put
money towards my making the armor that would mean that I would
not have to spend as much time making items for sale to pay for
expenses such as iron, coal, food, et cetera. Helping guard would
be another possible way to help."
GM: Ack.
------------------
From Raban: [Re: Actions]
Raban smiles sweetly, "Then what money or other treasures you
need are yours, Z'leyra. I can be a bodyguard as well, day or
night. But I cannot ignore my other duties for too long. So I
will need to make arrangements to entertain at whatever local
inns or other establishments I can find nearby. And see if there
are any people who need my help in my other capacities. Being a
wandering Bard has many rewards as well as duties. I need to
work on the stories about our adventures, the wonders of the
places we have been, though I suspect much of that may need to
be kept a secret for now. My teaching cultural things will be
limited depending on who is in the audiences, some places do
not wish to learn about other cultures. And my Goddess gets
upset with me at times because I have found some of her
teachings cannot be taught openly, but only in private to a
select audience. But I really hope I will find a place I can
dance, I have not been putting the effort into that I should.
The problem is so few places have enough room for me to do it
justice and I dislike putting on a mediocre performance. Of
course most places do not want to see a man dancing especially
one of my size, so I mostly dance for nobles. That is where I
make my largest income, usually many gold for the performance
and sometimes more for private shows. But I am sure you
understand that performing for any noble carries risks and I
do not mean from a poor performance. Sometimes an excellent
performance causes many problems."
GM: Ack.
------------------
From Kiet: [Re: Actions]
Kiet, using his finest acting skills, comically says "Oh, get a
room!"
[*** Quoted post of Raban/Z'leyra's posts deleted for space ***]
GM: Ack.
------------------
From Raban: [Re: Actions]
<Oh what a thing to do to them!>
For a brief moment Raban is startled and scenes from other
such encounters flash through his mind...But this time he is
innocent, or at least mostly so.. In some cultures even
implying such things can result in death! There is only one
proper response, remove the slight to her virtue.
Raban turns and smiles, "Keit, you mistook our conversation. I
am just negotiating for purchase of armor and weapons made by
our busy friend, Z'Leyra."
<In some things, Raban has learned fast responses ;) >
[*** Kiet's email deleted for space ***]
GM: Ack.
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[New Stuff]
GM: Now for the flying adventures of Fremea...
[Posted with her agreement.]
[Ma 2nd, 1633TH. 5th Day of Adventure #4.
[Location: Chaos domain, Dark Lands, 2 Miles up, Flying Island]
[Time: 3:23pm]
[Fremea who has been in deep thought-conversation with the Seker
for some time now decides to do one final fly over the castle. To
ensure everyone is gone and things are cleaned out. Flying
quickly from floor to floor scanning open doors and then to the
outside around the castle. Finally she decides to take a look at
the island from a higher position. Battling the winds she gains
some height and for the first time gets a full view of the island
that will soon be destroyed. To the western part of the island is
a light wood of trees spaced far apart for a wagon to go between
each tree. The trees themselves are small, not going over 30
feet it seems. Fremea scans for magical auras but only sees the
barrier that seems to hold the island aloft. She makes a mental
note to ask the Seker about it. She wonders how the trees could
be so short for such a long period of time. Surely there is
enough moisture in the air for them to grow but they should be
large ancient trees. Unless something designed it the other way
or use some hidden soil magic she can't sense. She has heard
Priests can protect crops and things like that so maybe its
possible. It would be a bad idea to have the trees dig their
way down to the Seker's cave and collapse it or dig to the
bottom and create a avalanche of dirt.]
[Fremea spots the various creatures the party took down like the
long snakes and gargoyles. If only the party had found the Seker
first they might have dealt them freedom. Arawn was right after
all it seems. Maybe talking to them might just have done better
than slaughtering them. But a slave or pet dying for their
freedom has some redeeming value. Fling down she can't spot the
Glyph or Wind Elementals but senses they are out there watching
and waiting. She can see wafts of the cloud elemental along the
border of the island that seems to cover it from view.]
[Landing in the courtyard she glances at the damage done and
wonders if destroying the place is such a good thing. After all
the party could use this base of operations for a long time an of
great use. But once someone heard of it they would be eager to
take it away. The folly of power is always shifting when others
seek that same power. She saw it in her own slave masters by one
slaver fighting over another's ground or body they found.]
[Flying up to the second floor she wonders why the burnt wife of
A'kril, confirmed by the Seker to be her from her description,
didn't turn to ask like A'kril. Maybe she wasn't under the same
geas, curse or trap by the gods he was. Heading to the Navigation
room she scans the illusionary map. Caladan gave her a brief
overview of its use by the gems under the table. Since the Dark
Lands map was taken by the party she uses the illusionary magic
map to pull a path east. The symbols aren't readable so the scale
isn't known. But based on the map she should only have 20-30
miles to go to the ocean. As a cold breeze enters the destroyed
windows she walks to the portal.]
[Time: 3:51pm]
[Back in the room she sits and waits a bit longer to ensure the
party get below and moving. With the thoughts on her mind the
Seker answers her own thoughts that come easy now.]
Seker: "You wonder about other life on the island? Aside from the
Elementals I strongly sense the Glyph. But the other Elementals
are vague sensations. There are even lighter traces of smaller
creatures in the west...yes the woods... there might be birds.
The birds should be smart enough to leave but some loss will
have o be done. Saving them all isn't possible."
[After a brief pause.]
Seker: "I did sense something about or around A'kril. But I do not
have the Sidh ability to detect the exact auras. After all these
years I suspect the gods did something to him. Like me and the
Elementals he might have been bound here to this place as its
master. He could leave for short durations but not for long.
His wife didn't seem affected by the gods. She was quite...
skillful in her own right...she did A'kril's dirty work and
would deal with prisoners on a personal level. I could sense
she didn't like the Dark Elves that much and didn't care for
them being here. She had thoughts, when she was in the cave,
of killing or using them in rituals. Raban may have sought to
save her but I suspect she had far different thoughts for him."
[The Seker turns its head south as if listening to something. It
turns back to Fremea.]
Seker: "I'm getting the urge to move by the Glyph. I can't pick
up his full thoughts but I get the impression your friends are
away and below now. It is time to go."
[With that Fremea notices a brief surge of magical aura from the
amulet and collar. A slight bump happens when the island starts
to move eastward.]
Seker: "We have a couple of hours I suspect."
[Fremea knows it will be awhile so decides to learn more about the
Seker and exchanging information. She starts with her own
background leading to a long thought-conversation.]
----------------------
[Time: 5:40pm]
[Fremea sitting indian style with palms on knees and wings folded
notices the Seker sigh and look sad. Sensing her query he
replies.]
Seker: "Sun will be going down soon. I had hoped to see the sunset
one last time. It has been...a long time since I saw the outside.
I doubt my eyes could adjust. Can you picture a recent sunset?"
[Fremea obliges and tries to give some thought pictures to the
Seker to ease his loss.]
----------------------
[Time: 6:13pm]
Seker: "We are crossing over into the ocean. But I want to get
well away from the shoreline. I do not want to create any tidal
waves that could destroy villages below." [A quick thought comes
to Fremea and he picks it up.] "They may be in a more chaotic
land but the villagers are bound to be normal people. Too much
death has happened already the Balance will not be helped by
harming them."
[Time: 7:04pm]
Seker: "I hope we are far enough away. Here is the plan. I will
lower us down to the ocean I have worked this out with the Glyph
earlier. We will slant the island up to a certain point that it
might begin to shake a bit from the strain. When ready you
should hover. For at this point I will use all my might and the
cloud elemental to complete the tilt of the island so it goes
upside down. At the height it should impact hard and hopefully
break apart. If the Glyph did his part he will use the Wind to
drill literally holes in the ground making it unsteady and break
apart harder. Even if the island doesn't sink the castle will
be destroyed. The timing will be critical for you and the Cloud.
The cloud will have a brief time to escape. When the island
begins to tilt I will likely move. I have not moved in a long
time so I may not be able to control my movements. Once the
island has tilted enough I will give you the warning to teleport
us out. I suggest doing so on the western side of the island. I
wish I could spent a few seconds outside looking a the stars but
I suspect I'll not be here that long. You can then fly away
safe."
[Fremea sighs not sure of this place. What if in the movmeent of
the Seker he becomes knocked out and then what? If they simply
let the island fall there is no guarantee it won't float. That
could leave the castle in tact. But without the Elementals and
the Seker the power of the place isn't a big deal to find a empty
castle. Maybe that should be the better plan?]
Seker: "Do not fear. The time is near..."
[Fremea begins to protest and come up with a better plan but it is
clear the Seker kept this part of the plan to himself till the
last moment. She stands and immediately feels the ground start
to shift and she shifts her balance. Not sure how high the island
is she prepares her magical words to teleport. She just hopes the
spell doesn't fail or this place could be a tomb. She wonders if
Raban could've helped after all haul him up without the Seker
being hurt.]
[Moments later the cave begins to tilt five, ten then twenty
degrees eastward. Dirt, sand and dust begins to fall in various
directions. Outside dead bodies, loose items and other small
things begin to slide eastward in the darkness. Below the Wind
Elementals leave the below area and move to the sides of the
island as the Cloud uses as much of its modified strength, to
hold the island up, to help tilt the island. The Seker begins
to move eastward still lying down. Fremea hovers but flies
toward the wall to brace for any head impact. The Seker grunts
and tries to roll himself over but it takes four attempts before
he finally does. Just before gravity forces him back down and
rolling to the side of the wall. Fremea prevents his head from
slamming the wall.]
[Outside in the darkness the strain of walls begin to fail and the
castle begins to crumble in large chunks rolling east and then down
into the ocean. Debris and stone begins to filter through the
portal.]
[Fremea hears "Now" and begins to speak her teleport spell while
holding onto the Seker.]
[Fremea reappears, just as a large boulder slams over the entrance
area of the portal, outside. On the western side of the island
roughly where Z'leyra found the slab the Seker begins to fall or
rather roll toward the crumbling wall. Fremea in hover state
remains balanced. The Seker grunts mentally as he impacts the
wall hard. Fremea rushes over as she notices he opens his eyes
and stares at the sky and the stars.]
Seker: "Thank you. But I am still here."
[While the thought was half a second a full real time second
passes. Fremea glances up to see the castle literally falling
apart before her eyes. Glass and stone fly and break. Behind her
trees sag and rocks begin to pelt the wall. She uses her wings to
deflect most of the rocks. Another second passes.]
Seker: "I missed the stars..."
[Fremea blinks as her night vision kicks in and she thought she
saw the Seker shake but the form begins to vibrate and slowly
seems to shift.]
Seker: "Finally. I can sense ..."
[The thought drifts away in her mind as the Seker's form fades
out completely. The wrist and ankle shackles fall to the ground.
The amulet and collar sag to the ground. Fremea reaches for the
amulet and the collar. But as she grabs the collar it begins to
crumble under her light touch. She reaches with her other hand
but it continues to crumble and the wind blows the dust away.
In horror she looks to the other items and sees the shackles
also crumble. The amulet seems in tact but a full second later
it finally begins to crack as if put under great pressure and
just go to pieces. She sighs and realizes the items must be so
ancient that once outside the cave the pure age was too much for
them. That or magic was built in for such things. She senses no
magic from the items.]
[Flying away the island now begins to tilt beyond 70 degrees by
the time she reaches a few dozen feet. At this point gravity
takes place. Fremea notices the cloud roll away. Two seconds
later the top of the island now the bottom falls and unsure of
the height it takes another 2 seconds it seems to hit the water.
The impact does create a tidal surge but in the dark she notices
the agreement between the Glyph and the Seker still seems valid.
Below the cloud has moved to the water with the Wind Eleemntals
and seems to be pushing the wave back with sheer force to create
a less tidal wave surge. From this angle it seems to work but she
isn't sure how long it will take to reach land or if anyone will
be hurt. But hopefully it will be a small wave.]
[High above Fremea hovers and notices eventually the cloud seems
to fade from view. Either it was covered by water or it simply
flew away. For a long time she stared at the dark island below.
There seems to be 3 large pieces have broken off but the seas here
are rough this far north. Hopefully it will break up further but
the castle is indeed gone by now. She also notices the barrier
magic faded away and that seemed to have been the allowance for
the leave of the Elementals.[
[In only the dim light of the stars, white surf and the distant
lightning flash Fremea dives down to scan the island one last
time. Recalling what the Seker spoke of birds and other animals.
Arawn's Druidic and Z'leyra's Shamanic spirit seems to rub off
and she worries about the natural order of things. Years ago
she wouldn't care anything about nature. She can't see how birds
could live in such heights. Sure magic seems to have kept the
wood at balance with sea level air but what about the cold? Flying
slow over the sinking island's forest she notices a spot of white
in one bush. Getting closer she notices a small bird's nest
about the size of Raban's hand. Two medium sized eggs are in the
nest and 2 others are nearby broken and damaged beyond hope.
Seems 2 dead bird younglings are dead by the broken nest. Fremea
picks up the nest and looks for the adults. But they are no
where to be seen. Wrapping the nest in her arm and keeping
it clear from the windward side she takes back to the air.
One final passover finds no other animals larger than a bird
living. As she flies over the castle she notices the Glyph
standing on the side of a wall that is slowly disintegrating.
He smiles at her and she notices flares of lightning in his eyes.
Previously that might be anger but now she figures it to be
justice for the island. He nods to her and seem to convey
gratitude. The Seker mentioned the Glyph would be in the
party's debt if they were in the area. Fremea can't spend much
more mana for a communicate spell as she would be tapped out.
She nods back acknowledgement and flies off as the Glyph
fades into the wind literally.]
[Fremea glances about for the Glyph but sees nothing. He could
be right next to her as wind and she not know it. She wonders
if she'll ever see him or his kind again. Then she hears thunder
to the east and lightning. A storm is brewing. She wonders if
it is a natural storm or the Elemental's doing to further break
up the island. Looking west she longs for her friends and lands
on one of the large still chunks of land. The sea is rough but
she casts her first teleport back to the Balance Domain night
camp.]
[Fremea finds herself now falling half a mile up. She quickly
regains her hovering stance. She hopes she teleported the full
16 miles. It is nothing like Chion can do crossing an entire
nation in one swoop. But it will work. She doesn't know where
she is but wanted to teleport 16 miles west and this high up to
avoid trees. Flying down to a tree limb she recasts her second
and hopefully last one.]
[Fremea reappears high above the forest. Falling she quickly flies
down and explores the area. She recalls in her mind the camp from
the previous night. That was the plan. It takes a good 15 min
before she finds the remains of the campsite and waits for the
group to catch up to her. She decides to rest in a tree and waits
for the others. She grins thinking she could trick them. Maybe
lying on the ground with an arrow in her or not showing up but
Sven is so old he might have one of those heart pain things and
die. She sighs and rests.]
[Time: 7:22pm]
[Fremea rests high in a tree, holding her nest. Here it seems
far less cooler than in the east. It seems like the Chaos
domain just reeks of cold and darkness. She wonders if she
should show it to the party. A sign of rebirth out of the
death of the castle. She smiles at the thought that Ben'dar
might cook them for breakfast. Arawn had his own bird
incident in the Vassa forest. Maybe in the morning. Fremea
finds a tall and wide branch and places the nest among some
thick branches. She gathers some good growth to warm the
eggs. She considers sitting on the eggs. Ben'dar might
have suggested that. But she is too big. Maybe in the
morning she can find a group of birds to adopt the nest.]
-------------------------------------------------------------
[Ma 2nd, 1633TH. 5th Day of Adventure #4.
[Location: Chaos domain, Dark Lands, Forest, heading West]
[Time: 2:40 pm]
[After Sven explains his reason for leaving quickly. Ben'dar
grunts and finds this cowardly retreat wrong. He speaks to Sven.]
Ben'dar: "If this Itom is behind the attack, then we should not
let it go unanswered. Nor should we leave such a treacherous
enemy at our backs. I say we track down Itom, and butcher her!"
Sven: "Are you prepared to battle through a population of about
600 and guards about 30 just on her estate? Most of you are
wounded and the longer we stay here the better her advantage
is. There are rules in these lands. The High Elder will
handle it. I'm here to watch over your safety and to prevent
disruptions. We could go track her down but she could simply
deny it and say her apprentice went rogue. The High Elder
will deal with it through normal channels. Usually in these
cases a court of nobles is held. If you want to go there
I can draw you a map to her estate. But it looks like only
two or three of you are fully prepared for a battle. Her
village is rather loyal to her."
[He leans in close to Ben'dar's ear which unnerves him and
then whispers faintly.]
Sven: "Besides I suspect she was just a pawn. The true trouble
maker in these lands is the Sorceress. Proving that will be
far more difficult than slaying a possible pawn in her plans."
[He leans back as if the woods could hear him. Then he talks
normal and remounts his horse.]
Sven: "Beside if you did kill her by the rules of this land
you would have to be the domain ruler. Since your no mage
you'd quickly be attacked for your land. Its how things
go in this land."
[Ben'dar grumbles. He hates politics as much as he does sour
beer. Sven seems to know what he is talking about and is
unsure of the power of Itom. Could Ben'dar, Chion, Unali
the biggest unwounded handle a force of 300 plus?]
----------------------
[Time: 5:23 pm]
[For the past couple hours the party has talked about taking
treasure claims and what they will do with their shares.
Upkeep for manors, houses or ranches. Raban just shakes
his head. His small claim of a wine bottle for healing seems
so little compared to the others. Worked around Nobles for
so long has shown greed clearly to Raban. Bards are the
connection between the elite and the common man. But they
are aware of the diverse and distinct classes of the rich
and the poor. Raban would prefer to work among the poor
and common but knows he wouldn't survive long on earning
their brass bits. Even a bard must entertain to survive.
He can understand some need the money but he can't seem to
understand the simple desire for it. Even with some arguments
over the armor seem to disappoint him. All the good the
party could do with that money.]
[Having thought of what Unali said a couple hours ago he finds
her shifting her bags on her horse. She returns a nod of
greeting and a slight smile. Raban likes that. When he first
met her and she almost died in the tavern she was all rigid
and seems to have mellowed a bit. Raban smoothes his clothes
wondering if its more than becoming friendly after all his
looks seems to chill even the coldest woman.]
Raban: "Unali, I have given it much thought and you are right to
a large extent. None of the ladies here needed much protection
as they are all capable of defending themselves and more. Some,
maybe all, could hurt me in a fight, though from what I have
seen none could easily say they would win, not even yourself.
But the odd magics you have make that a tough call and I could
be far wrong. I do not like to hurt others but it far too easy
for me to do so. I think it was possible for me to have killed
any of the enemies we fought in a single blow even the metal man
and that is not from much magical aid. But where I lacked is
protection, I took more damage than any of the others, maybe
more than a few combined. And a little Armor would have stopped
much of that. I did not mind getting hurt as much of that was
to prevent or minimize the damage to others. Even as well
protected and as skilled as you are, or even the other ladies,
you would not have wanted to be surrounded by so many opponents.
In that I made a large difference and in a few other cases. So I
feel I did do what I came for and even such formidable ladies as
this group has can use some protection... But I could have done
better than I did. And if I need to be in more battles like this
one, then I will need to risk having better armor or weapons. I
just hope I do not become the monster it makes me feel like to
do that. So many see me as such a monster as it is, I would hate
to prove them right..."
"And I thank you for your concern about my safety, its an odd
feeling having someone think they need to protect me. And I
suppose if getting hurt is any indication, I needed some
protection. Though I feel much of that was my Goddess reminding
me of my failings, she also would prefer I do not fail in my
duties. I assure you I can do far better than I have shown so
far. I made a few poor decisions because I did not know what
everyone could do or where they needed the help. Now I have a
little better idea of that. But if your opponent gets lucky,
then only the armor makes the biggest difference. I took many
small wounds that could have been avoided, and that is something
that can be fixed by better armor. I think I need to speak with
Z'leyra about that. Thank you for helping teach me that not all
women are helpless but like anyone else they may still need
protecting. I think I will do better protecting some of the
men too at need. Working with so many people requires broader
thinking than I usually allow myself. And that may be why my
Goddess guided me here, to broaden my views and learn something
new. From now on I will be protecting friends and maybe they
will do the same for me when needed."
[Unali staring at the horse with Raban to her back smiles at the
words. She turns around and gives him a big smile. Walks the
two feet toward him and tilts her head like she saw Pasha do to
Ben'dar and smiles. She wraps her arms around his neck and hugs
him before she recalls his neck wound. The big bear seems so
gentle and maybe she can show him how rough life can be. A quick
knee to the groin or a flip by a mere female. No. She shakes
her head at the daydreaming. Never moved, still staring at the
horse she nods back to him. He is quite good looking for a bear.
Maybe a demonstration could be given another time. Unali always
fought for herself for years but recently with this group she
seems to have changed to bringing the woman's rights to the top.
Like the females in Caladan's village or the girls in the Vassa
forest. Showing them that a strong female in a man's world can
do more and should be allowed to do so. That is her new thing to
do to help women. She knows showing up some males can make them
quite upset. Men, can't tame them and can't kill them for fun.]
[Raban heads to find Z'leyra chatting with Caladan on the use of
the helmet. He seems to have gotten the hang of it but finds
him getting tired a bit. Long term exposure must drain your
brain energy in pure concentration not in life force. Caladan
takes a few moments to rest his head while Raban approaches.]
Raban: "Z'leyra, it has taken me much labored thought and advice
from others to decide I must risk having heavier armor. You had
mentioned the possibility of making me some, and it would seem
I need such help. Since the group seems intent on giving me such
a large amount from the things found, I can give all that to you
to offset the costs involved."
"Something I have been working on myself has been making a
stronger bow, but so far my skill is not up to the task. I may
not be able to make such a bow from wood and I do not work with
metals much. The only weapons I use much are my bow and fist. I
am an expert in both of those and see little reason to use
anything else. So those are another area I should seek magical
improvements on if its possible. Are these things you have time
to help me with?"
[Caladan laying on the slab cooling off, eyes closed, smiles.]
Caladan: "Armor to cover you would require hide from a herd of
cows. Too bad you can't use one of those shield spell that
Arawn uses. As to bows in you case I think you could use
a catapult as a hand held bow?" [He laughs.] "We have a giant
in my tribe who fought Ben'dar in a test. Arrows are so
small for his hands they tend to break. I wish you luck."
Z'leyra: "I would be honored to make armor for you. I could include
gauntlets and boots that could assist your incredible hand to
hand fighting skills. What type armor would you want? I can make
and enchant leather, chain or plate. But the tougher the starting
material the longer it will take to make. For instance plate
armor alone would take at least seven weeks. Perhaps chainmail,
helm, gauntlets and boots could be done in five to six weeks of
effort. Such would protect you from minor blows and greatly
reduce injury from greater blows, similar to what I wear. It
would only take a couple weeks to outfit you in fully enchanted
leather...but that would still allow some injury from lesser
blows and would wear out much faster."
"Back when I was less adept at enchantment I used to wear
enchanted ringmail covering enchanted leather or cloth but it
now takes me less time to make and fully enchant brigandine,
scale or banded ring which provides as much protection and
lasts longer. Fully enchanted these provide just a bit better
protection than normal plate armor. That would be the least
armor I would suggest any wear while adventuring and fighting
such opponents as we often seem to face. Those that melee on
the front lines should have armor even better than that. Armor
such as Ben'Dar or I wear. Ben'Dar's leather started out as
tough as chainmail and I enchanted it further."
[Caladan still eyes closes gives a small laugh at something.]
Caladan: "Run away from the shiny walking cooking pot!" [He
grins at some thought.] "I could see you wearing shiny
plate armor head to toe. the blinding glare might scare
folks away."
[Z'leyra ignores the comment and continues.]
Z'leyra: "Unfortunately I am not yet a bowyer, so I cannot make
and enchant a bow fit for you...yet. Someday perhaps. As far as
costs...I consider creating the equivalent of one magic armor
and one magic weapon for each fellow party member to be part of
my share in the party...a way to make all of us both more
effective and more survivable. If you choose to retire from
the party, well we can consider the matter anew. Gauntlets
enchanted to boost your close combat skills will count as your
magical weapon. Remember that there are others waiting for me
to have time to create these items for them as well. Time is a
precious commodity for me as I have many things I must do and
must divide up my time to do them. Possibly we shall start with
just the armor and create the rest when more time becomes
available. Some, such as Xian, chose to not have me make
such items for them or can create their own."
Raban: "Then it is best you decide based on how much time you can
afford, as anything is better than what I have now. One that will
not break too easily would be nice. But if you do not need money
what can I do to help you? I am an skilled masseuse so I can give
you massages to relax the muscles that are tight from the work?
There must be something I can do for you in return."
[Caladan giggles at that. Even Ben'dar grunts a half giggle
at hearing the conversation. Not much privacy in a small
group in a quiet forest. Raban realizes his words could
be mis-understood.]
[Z'leyra glares at Caladan who can't see her glare with his
eyes closed and looks away. Is Raban coming on to her?
Its funny how a man like Raban could be a Eroticist's dream
to deal with. Her skills could be quite useful but she
puts those thoughts away. Back to business.]
Z'leyra: "I am not saying that I can't use money. If you wish to
put money towards my making the armor that would mean that I
would not have to spend as much time making items for sale to
pay for expenses such as iron, coal, food, et cetera. Helping
guard would be another possible way to help."
[Sven walks by Ben'dar and whispers.]
Sven: "Those two seem to like each other. He is quite the charmer."
[Raban begins to think having a more public conversation isn't
wise in the future. The Barbarian seems to be having fun
at his expense. Smiling sweetly he replies.]
Raban: "Then what money or other treasures you need are yours,
Z'leyra. I can be a bodyguard as well, day or night. But I
cannot ignore my other duties for too long. So I will need to
make arrangements to entertain at whatever local inns or other
establishments I can find nearby. And see if there are any people
who need my help in my other capacities. Being a wandering Bard
has many rewards as well as duties. I need to work on the stories
about our adventures, the wonders of the places we have been,
though I suspect much of that may need to be kept a secret for
now. My teaching cultural things will be limited depending on
who is in the audiences, some places do not wish to learn about
other cultures. And my Goddess gets upset with me at times
because I have found some of her teachings cannot be taught
openly, but only in private to a select audience. But I really
hope I will find a place I can dance, I have not been putting
the effort into that I should. The problem is so few places have
enough room for me to do it justice and I dislike putting on a
mediocre performance. Of course most places do not want to see
a man dancing especially one of my size, so I mostly dance for
nobles. That is where I make my largest income, usually many
gold for the performance and sometimes more for private shows.
But I am sure you understand that performing for any noble
carries risks and I do not mean from a poor performance.
Sometimes an excellent performance causes many problems."
[Caladan waves a hand and speaks softly.]
Caladan: "A night bodyguard. How sweet."
[Raban growls this time and wonders if the barbarian could be
split in two with one hand or two. Z'leyra ignores the comment.]
[Kiet near the wagon dusts his hands off having heard enough
of the armor talk. With a comical voice he speaks to the
two who seem to be talking overtly and covertly.]
Kiet: "Oh, get a room!"
[Caladan gives a big howl of laughter and rolls off the slab and
heads into the forest to relieve himself or maybe to get away
from Raban's hands. Unali walking by Chion hears Raban talk
about bards. Duke Aren always mentioned that Bards make the
best spies. They can infiltrate places normal spies can't. Some
say the Bards even have their own secret intelligence network
and language even with codes. She wonders if that is true.]
[Raban recalls briefly other scenes and encounters previously
with him and others. He knows his words were innocent but
some could misread them. In some cultures they could be quite
bold even to the point of weddings at the point of a bow.
Raban knows he has to regain his dignity and restore her
virtue. Raban turns to Kiet and smiles.]
Raban: "Kiet, you mistook our conversation. I am just negotiating
for purchase of armor and weapons made by our busy friend,
Z'Leyra."
[Ben'dar waits for Raban to leave Unali and approaches her.]
Ben'dar: "And how would you know how a lady likes to be treated?"
[he says with a mischievous grin.] "Besides, you've been
wanting me to do that ever since we met!"
[That stops Unali cold. She perks a eyebrow and looks at
Unali with a stare that could scare a dragon. She wonders
what to say to such a thing.]
[Suddenly near the wagon Chion laughs out loud. Kiet who has
been adjusting treasure looks over and wonders. Ben'dar also
perks up curious and Chion shrugs and answers their unsaid
question.]
Chion: "At least I am not married."
[Kiet with his teamster skills has been a great help to Sven
in organizing the treasure to better balance the wagon. Now
at rest he readjusts other crates and items. Also skilled
in the use of wagon travel he knows how best to move a wagon
through woods. But on more mundane things like comments
from Chion he isn't sure what to say.]
-------------------
[Time: 3:12 am]
[Hours later exhausted and tired the party continues through the
forest of the Chaos Domain Itom owns. So far nothing has
attacked them. If it weren't for the fact the party had to
meet up with Fremea they could stop and sleep. But the border
shouldn't be that long now. Sven estimates at least another
hour. If it was daylight they'd be there by now.]
[Time: 3:49 am]
[The party finally crosses the border into the Balance Domain
where things are a bit less chaotic. The party can feel the
pressure ebb as the magic of the domain seems to pass. The
darkness of Itom's land seems to fade into natural night of
the Balance domain. The camp was just a mile or so from here.
In this area it is clear in most areas so travel is faster.]
[Time: 4:22 am]
[Finally the group finds the campsite they used the previous
night. It seems like weeks have passed but it was only
a short time ago. Exhausted most stagger to the ground off
their horses and break into a organized silence. Minutes
pass and no Fremea. Corona searches the trees and finds her
sleeping on a tall branch. Fremea wakes up and joins the
group who have now started the campfire back up. She gives
details on the final events of the castle. But little
follow-up is done as most just need sleep.]
------------------
[Ma 3rd, 1633TH. 6th Day of Adventure #4.
[Location: Balance Domain, Dark Lands, Forest, heading West]
[Time: 4:48 am]
[With daylight only a couple hours away the group heads to
tents after securing treasure, wagon and horses. Wounds
and dressings are rechecked. Fremea being less exhausted
and having slept some takes up the watch for the group. It
doesn't take long for anyone to find sleep.]
Actions? Comments?
Next Update...Friday...
GM: Ben'dar if you do want to go after Itom let me know. Once
over the border the group can rest and you can see if
the others want to join you. But going after her estate
at night could be dangerous. Especially since she is
known for Darkness magic and it might just be hidden in
the very darkness. I'll go with the group on this.
GM: Enough of a update for now. Big as it is with the talking.
At this point the group is back together. I suspect the
party will want to sleep then move out around 3pm or so and
get at least a few miles away. Next update I'll figure
out natural healing and possible encounters for the trip
back to the Citadel. Once I know how long it'll take I
can take actions for the few days back to the Citadel.
If the party doesn't want to go there let me know. Sven
suggests that Ki'ama has people who can determine the
magic items if they wish to save mana.
GM: As of this posting I can't update site again. So once
the upgrade to the site is done I can. So stand by
for link updates. Next email is the treasure version 2.1 see
very bottom for updated notes to see wny changes.
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