Zmija, on foot, leads the party through the rough hill terrain of the Crimean. He is very fleet of foot, not a match for a horse in any way but on this terrain he can easily keep in the lead but surely he must get tired after jogging so far.

He seems unconcerned about any sort of riding order and seems to be happy to let the party sort this out for themselves.

Jean rides his horse into Zmija's path.

"Explain yourself. Why do you request a mounted patrol and then insist on slowing us with a man afoot?"

Zmija stops and smiles at the Frankish knight..."I am different from most man brave sir knight. I am trained in a mystic art of body alchemy that allows me to withstand much pain, my body is also trained for quick travel. I would not dare to race a fast horse but against a heavily barded mount like yours I would dare say that I am near it's equal in speed and surpass it in endurance."

"Many a fit man can outdistance a thoroughbred but should we have need for haste you will still be a burden. Never the less it is your life to spend as you will."

That said Jean wheeled his mount back into line.

"Relax, Jean. If our friend here cannot keep up, which I sincerely doubt, then we shall leave him behind. Let us continue."

Taking a spot near that back of the party, Loukas keeps his short bow and an arrow ready.

While there was something unnerving about the holy man, seeing Zmija's ease of movement so far, he can not help but feel a bit envious. Being on foot in these mountains could be quite an advantage... "Given the terrain before us it seems unlikely that our mounts legs might actually be a disadvantage here. After all, this place is better made for mountain goats or mules than warhorses, eh? Come, fellows, it is too early in this mission to be biting at each others' heels."
This message was last edited by the player at 15:58, Tue 08 Dec 2009.

"You were born to be a diplomat, Loukas," says A'kos.  "Let them figure things out for themselves...perhaps the knight shall have need of the runner's skills before too long and shall see thing differently then.  If not, then he and Conn are right - we leave the man behind."

"You misunderstand. I do not doubt his abilities. I simply wish to know what they are. In war knowledge is greater than strength."

"And apparently you were born to be a philosopher," shrugs the Falcon.  "I've little need for either...and if you were that concerned perhaps you should have studied the man more carefully aboard the ship.  In the meantime we've some miles to ride..."

Allowing his thought to trail off A'kos pushes Storm's Wind further up the trail, summarily dismissing the conversation out of hand, his thoughts already elsewhere.

Balthazar says to Zmija, "Ah, you belong to an Order diametrically opposed to mine.  To bring your body and mind to such a fine state of conditioning takes considerable self-denial.  While I can clearly see the benefits of your rigors in the skills you are putting on display, I believe ascetic abnegation runs counter to the human condition.  Perhaps after this mission you'll at least submit to trying my chocolate mousse cake?  It's a specialty of mine I learned during my time in the Frankish heartland a few years back."

"Make no mistake Falcon...I was born to make War."

Jean rode with his eyes out for trouble but he could not help but listen to Blathazar's mention of Frankish deserts.

"If you two keep shouting at one another you'll have more war than you can handle shortly," Jaleh says, pulling the fine Arabian up next to the Frankish Knight.  "Of your prowess, I've no doubt, but let your actions shout of it from the mountainside and your words be left for prayers for the dead."

With her little speech done she too rides forward, following closely on the heels of the Magyar.

Bringing his speed back up to a jog Zmija replies to Balthazar..."Some in the brotherhood, do deprive themselves of pleasure but those of us who follow the way of Veles know the feeling of inspiration to the extent of the "wod" or fury. It is true that I am conservative with regards to how I treat my body but for the sake of friendship, i wil try your Frankish treat when we finish here in Khorusn."

It is with a smile that Conn enjoys the exchange between Sir Jean and the Falcon, and he finds himself in agreement with the latter, though he is equally sure Jean is more than capable - in many respects. He rides off behind A'kos and Jaleh, while catching Balthazar's mention of cake, which sounds quite delicious, moreso to one who has lived on meat and ale for longer than he can remember...

"Excellent.  The 'wod' - is that something you experience in regular seven year intervals?"

As he jogs..."We experience it whenever the Lord Veles deems we should."

Balthazar is intrigued about this Lord Veles fellow, but mindful of Jaleh's scolding, he saves them for a later date.

It is clear that the night will fall before making it to the city walls. As the sky begins to grow dark, Zmija finds a suitable cleft along the mountain trails for the party to camp in for the night.

Loukas wraps himself in his cloak and keeps his weapons near to hand as they settle in for the night.

Michael, even though the effects of the spell are long worn off has glommed onto Balthazar as almost a personal servant. Within minutes of stopping to camp for the night, Michael has all of Balthazar's gear unpacked and his mount cared for. He asks no one in particular..."Shall I collect wood for a fire or are we not going to make one?"

The party is far enough away from the city that a fire should not be a problem.

Conn will also wrap his cloak around him, and keep his weapons close to hand. He will help in building the fire, if required.

Jean sees to his horse and then looks over the mounts of the others (with the exception of A'Kos' who is certain does an adequate job) before coming into the camp and settling in by the fire.

"Best we keep a watch by turns lest someone steal in an end our expedition prematurely."

To Jean A'kos says, "I've this little toy from the dead Persian - I'd activate it and do a quick circuit around our camp to make sure none are about."

He indicates the Figurine of the Lion...

When A'kos suggest that he could make use of the Lion Figurine, Loukas agrees, "Aye, that would be a wise use of its powers; nevertheless, we should remember that the city may well have patrols protecting its rear, and while we are probably quite safe from them if they do, we should each take a turn at watch as well."

"Agreed," nodded the Falcon tersely.  "I've a mind to get to know my new companion now, however, and will take a bit of a walkabout in the surrounding area."

With that, he sets the figurine on the ground and whispers a word, then stands back and awaits whatever may happen.

Jean sat up slightly to see what, if anything, the figurine did.

"That would be great, Michael."

(OOC: Maybe I've lost track of how long it's been, but I highly doubt the spell has worn off yet.  If MIchael has an average intelligence of 11, he doesn't get a new saving throw for 3 weeks.  Furthermore, that's just a new save, and a 0 level human needs a 19, which is only a 10% chance.  So every 3 weeks Michael has a 10% chance to shake off the spell, so that averages out to something like 30 weeks for a single casting.)

I know I'm going to regret this, but Balthazar swaps out shield for charm person from his memorized list, seeing as how we may need to convince some enemies to let us past.
This message was last edited by the player at 01:41, Mon 14 Dec 2009.

NO you are right. i lost count of the days. Or actually just forgot about paying attention to them altogether:)

The lion figurine quickly grows into a large male lion only black in color. unlike any lion any of you have ever seen. Even the whites of it's eyes and teeth are black. It comes to sit in front of the Falcon,clearly waiting for instructions.

A'kos stares at the black figure of the lion, his eyes intent, as if he's silently communicating with him, then grins broadly and looks at the others.

"I think the beast wants to hunt," he says.  "Anyone care to join us?"

"Go play with your pet, Falcon," pouts Jaleh mischievously.  "I'll be here keeping warm by the fire."

"It is a wondrous creature. I will remain here and rest while you watch. Wake me when you return."

The onyx lion tilts it's head back and roars at A'kos but it not a roar of anger instead somehow it conveys a sort of fondness and good will to all who hear it.

The beast goes from standing to sitting and just waits for A'kos to move out.

Nodding to Jean, A'kos measures the trail and turns toward the way they've yet to tread.

"Come, Leo," he says, and jogs quickly into the darkness.

The onyx lion bounds into the hills with A'kos in the lead. The rest of the party continue to make camp. It is a relatively warm night and the moon is bright.

Balthazar takes out his copy of the 'Papers and Paychecks' rpg from his backpack to pass the time. "Anyone want to play?  I've got an adventure lined up where you all get to play rich businessmen in an industrialized society who try to cheat the masses out of millions.  It's hard not to win this game, because if you screw up the government bails you out anyway."

Zmija takes some time away from his usual quiet meditation and sits next to the Hedonite..."A game? What sort of game can one play with a book, where are the game pieces, the gameboard?"

"Nonsense Balthazar! No King would allow such foolishness!"

Loukas has interest in his eyes, but he conveys a certain dubiousness in his tone, "'Paychecks' I know of paper, but what are these other things? My family's company is rich, and I admit that my older brothers happily kept me out of their affairs, but I am unsure I have heard of such. I agree with Jean that such things sound rather unusual. Perhaps you Magi are spending a bit too much time with the magical ingredients?
This message was last edited by the player at 20:48, Thu 17 Dec 2009.

Before Balthazar can expound on his strange game, there is a rustle in the brush and out pops A'kos holding a small onyx statue of a lion.

A'kos approaches the fire and says, "But a short ways is a narrow aqueduct running in the direction of the city - likely a freshwater inlet because I didn't smell sewage and it was being patrolled by cavalry.  Something to think about as we move out on the morrow."

Stowing the lion he moves to sit next to Jaleh and makes himself comfortable.

Zmija sits up when he hears A'kos speak of the aqueduct leading into the city. "This could be very important information. you and your feline companion did well to scout ahead this night."

"Of course," nods A'kos sleepily.  "I would have followed the patrol, but they were on horseback and would've outrun me.  The thought occurs even now that Storm's Wind could catch them up, but I would not risk him throwing a shoe or worse on the rough ground this night."

"Yes, good work, A'kos. It is not only useful information for tomorrow, but tonight as well. Even if the aqueduct is a ways away it is useful to know that enemy patrols are not far from us. We will need to be attentive in our watches."

Jean sleeps in preparation for his own watch.

Sleepily, A'kos looks at the sleeping Frank knight.

"Jean, I'm back...your turn to watch."

With that the Falcon rests his head upon Jaleh's thigh and tries to fall asleep.

Jaleh hardly stirred as A'kos laid his head on her thigh. She had been simply listening to the discussion herself with little to add, so thus, said nothing. She stroked A'kos hair while trying to position herself a bit more comfortably to sleep.

The night passes and all remains quiet. Various members of the group rotate taking turns with sentry duty and sleeping. Zmija does not sleep.

 A glow can be seen to the south beyond the city in the dark if one strains hard enough to see it.

The morning is quiet an unseasonably warm. Zmija has prepared some sort of buckwheat gruel that is actually quite appetizing.

Up with the dawn A'kos stretches wearied muscles.

"Oy," he mutters.  "Nothing like the soreness of the saddle when you haven't been riding in awhile."

"What's this Zmija?" he asks, approaching the fire.  Taking a spoonful of the gruel he sniffs it suspiciously, then sticks a finger in and tastes the concoction.

"Hmm, it tastes...healthy."

Shrugging, he begins to eat.

Balthazar says, "I look forward to the day's mission.  Been a while since I cast a spell in anger.  So what exactly is our mission again?  Just to find out anything useful, or do we want to make a meaningful stab at disabling those towers that guard the harbor?"

Jaleh, upon awakening joins the others by the fire and helps herself to some of the gruel while listening to Balthazar. He was getting right to business, which she was quite happy with at the moment.

Tucking into his breakfast, Loukas replies to Balthazar, "Our mission is to climb the wall and drop a rope to our boys on the ground. Simple, eh?"

"Ah, gotcha."  OOC: I totally missed that earlier.  Glad I asked.



Yeah, the kidding around has been found but now it's time to kick this game into high gear.

Having finished his food, Loukas leans back and seems to contemplate the fire, "A'kos, last night you said that the horsemen you saw seemed to be patrolling an aqueduct, did you not? Surely this means that the thing is functioning... That the aqueduct you found is how the city gets its water..."

Looking around the at his fellow party members, "It is the enemy's fire that keeps us from assaulting the city, but if we were to 'break' the aqueduct, could we not use its lack of water to convince them to surrender?"

The gaunt priest smiles at the word Loukas speaks..."Yes! It may be a longer road be depriving the city of it's water supply will bringt hemto their knees eventually. I imagine that is what the troop of horsemen is meant to prevent."

Jean joins the others at breakfast having spent some amount of time tending the mounts.

"Our task is to scout the land around the walls. The vulnerability of the aqueduct is important but it is for the Knyaz to decide if it should be attacked."

After several bites of the gruel he says, "This is good."

"If the thing is of Roman make it will not be easily wrecked in any case. More than our number would be needed...or sorcery beyond that of Balthazar."

"Wouldn't be particular sporting either," noted A'kos sourly.  "It's been too many days since our sea battle.  Altogether we should find a patrol worthy adversaries."

Loukas leaned forward showing more enthusiasm than he had in a very long time, "Wait, fellows... If we have the capacity amongst us now to damage the aqueduct what do we lose by doing so? So far as we know the city has plenty of liquid fire in its stores and all of our ships continue to be made of wood, no? As things stand now, the city's position is much stronger than ours. All I am suggesting is that we should take a look for ourselves and if we can determine a way to damage it, then we should do so. Then we can return to the Knyaz and let him determine next best steps, which is to say, negotiating the city's surrender as it begins to die of thirst. Of course, if we do not have the capability amongst us to do significant damage to the aqueduct, then we will have to return and get assistance, but a little initiative taken now would lead to a surer, sooner victory."

Turning to A'kos, "We should also do our best to avoid patrols. Defeating a patrol is good sport, but doing so will inform the city that we know their weakness (the aqueduct) and they will put up a more active defense of it... And, we would lose the advantage of surprise."

"Loukas has the mind of a tactician. I feel this is the best course of action. It is within my power to act as the Knyaz's man in this situation but I will not force the issue. Instead I ask you to listen to the words of young Loukas, he speaks wisely for his years."

He then directly speaks to A'kos..."As to whether we can break it or not...A'kos, what sort of material did this aqueduct look to be made of?"

"Ceramic," grunts the Falcon in answer.  "Standard stuff in these lands from what I've seen, and nothing so strong that it cannot be damaged."

"But in answer to the two of you I say this: Kill a patrol, and no word gets back until the next patrol comes looking.  Damage this pipe, and the city will know forthwith!"

Jean pauses for a second, how odd to find himself in agreement with the Magyar, and then adds his voice,

"Further the goal is to take the city. Foul chance of that if we render it unlivable by cutting off the water. I did not see many engineers in the Knyaz's longboats.".

He finishes his food having consumed it in the rapid manner that is the habit of a veteran soldier.

"My choice would be to offer them no knowledge of our reconnaissance at all unless they cross our paths by chance. Any intelligence we gather is devalued by their knowing we have it."

"However I will not shy from a fight if it is of importance to the rest of you."

The byzantine breaks his long silence "Sires, if I may..."

"The strategy presented by Loukas certainly has in its favor the possibility of victory with minimum bloodshed. A desirable goal, even weighting it against its obvious dishonorable quality. Zmija ensures us that he speaks in name of Sviatoslav and he approves it. There are, however, a few points that speak against such course of action."

"First, with all respect to you, Zmija, is that we do not know if Sviatoslav would personally concur. Even if all goes well the rus army may find itself soon enough in the position of defending the recently occupied city, and then our own strategy would turn against us. Yet more grave, destroying the acqueduct will affect the populace before it hits the military. If the defendants decide to hold for as long as they can our eventual victory would deliver us a city filled with sick, dying and angry people. Occupying a settlement in such a situation is dangerous to say the least, and it is a decision that should not be made by a scouting party without knowledge of the commander in charge."

"Finally, though you are mostly heathen, it is my duty to advise you against inflicting punishment over the innocent, even in an act of war. You have seen the effects of powers greater than mortal men, such powers make no distinction between those who are faithful and those who are not. Bear that in mind and heart, for such matters rest solely on the own decisions of each one."
This message was last edited by the player at 04:19, Thu 24 Dec 2009.

A'kos listens to both knights.

"Fine speeches, both," he nods, then adds, "and, again, tactically it is unsound to hinder the water supply until we've determined that we're going to lay siege...even if that were the case, we'd need a much bigger army to take on this city - even if their God Himself came down to tear down the walls, like at Jericho."

Grinning a bit, he winks at Jean.

"Not bad for a heathen, eh?"

Loukas chuckles, "You all sound more like a bunch of bureaucrats than warriors."

Continuing he glances at Rus cleric, "Perhaps the most important point is that none of you seemed to have heard Zmija when he said that has the authority to make a decision in this matter in the Knyaz's name. This is the reason Sviatoslav sent him to join us on the Heart of Oak, eh?

"Let us also remember that the entire point of the Knyaz's little holiday here to Khorsun is to seize the city, and strategically speaking, taking it with a minimum amount of loss is to our advantage. For that matter, forcing them to stop fighting for fear of thirst and starvation is far kinder than the alternative, even if it lacks the glorious luster of a bloody fight on the walls and the rapine that typically follows such.

"Finally, we need not destroy the aqueduct, only damage it sufficiently. I suggest that while damaging it we send to the fleet and inform the Knyaz of what we are doing. This way, by the time the city realizes what we have done they can not make repairs. Though we are still likely to have to defend it ourselves until relief comes... Ultimately, once we have taken the city the Knyaz will be able to repair the Aqueduct and things will continue on under his control as they have under the Basilius's."

"Ceramic, eh?"  Balthazar mutters, "I see a bunch of swords and scimitars on the lot of you.  Anybody have a good maul or pick for this kind of work?"

When Balthazar speaks Loukas grins, "Ah! Now there is a relevant question! If we do not have the capacity amongst us to do the required damage then all of this conversation is wasted. I take it that you do not have a spell that would damage cement, Magus? Perhaps we should take a look at the structure -- and in doing so be careful to avoid any patrols?"

Roderychus eyes Loukas with amusement "Judging our words as you shows that you fail to understand organized warfare, and your arguments show you paid no attention to what I said. Contrary to your statement, I underlined the claim of authority made by Zmija, and only presented other considerations that, as my experience tells me, should be taken in consideration. Other than that, I will disregard your comment about my value as a warrior for mere ingenuity, or else I would be force to prove you otherwise."

"In any event, it would benefit us more hearing what Zmija makes of the arguments presented thus far than falling into internal squabble."

"The knight speaks true, pup," says A'kos to Loukas.  "Have a care, else you may find you've offended someone you wish not to."

"Again." There is no amusement in the Frank's eyes.
This message was last edited by the player at 23:20, Thu 24 Dec 2009.

Zmija furrows his brow as he looks at the group and says..."Rather than worry about the pup offending those who find themselves feeling superior this day worry more about doubting the authority of the man the Knyaz has given this task too! Do you think that Prince Sviatoslav would place a fool in such a position as he has given me? To doubt me is to doubt the Knyaz."

"We are Sviatoslav's allies not his servants Priest."

"Let me be clear as my code is a simple one. I won't be wronged. I won't be insulted. I won't be laid hands upon. I don't do these things to other people, and I require the same from them."

"I have made it known that I will be spoken to respectfully or not at all. To do otherwise is to invite violence."

The tall mans eyes narrow on the Frankish knight and he says..."There has been no insult to you this night. If you wish to imagine there has been one, that is your decision but I warn you, it is not a wise one. As for your relationship with the Knyaz...do you battle for him without pay? If I am not mistaken you are to be paid rather well for your assistance which by any stretch of the word, since you are not Rus, makes you mercenaries in service to my Lord Sviatoslav.

I on the other hand am a servant of the Knyaz. His best interest and the welfare of the Rus are my main concern. He knows this and has given me leave to serve as I see fit.

Jean rises to his feet at the word "mercenary" sword in hand.

"Sviatoslav came to us personally in his city and asked us to join his cause. He offered land as reward when the city is taken as is only just. We are not some coin starved half bandit scum who will rally to the call of any master simply for pay."

"As to the nature of your service to the Knyaz it may soon become irrelevant for if you refer to Jean D'Arzillieres once more as a mercenary and I will kill you where you stand!"

"Alright, everybody calm down.  There's no need for any of this bickering.  Zmija, this is just a simple misunderstanding.  Perhaps you were not informed that the main reason most of us are here is a mission of vengeance.  The monetary reward was actually turned down by some of us, myself included."

Balthazar and Michael then proceed to fill Zmija in on the whole ambush at sea and death of Armin incident.
This message was last edited by the player at 13:12, Fri 25 Dec 2009.

Zmija nods his head as Balthazar fills him in on the details and says..."I fully understand the details of your experience as I have been informed but to hear it from your person has helped this understanding."

He then once again turns to the Frankish knight and says..."You have mistaken me for a Christian priest perhaps? Only a fool would presume that the Knyaz would have a man of peace lead an expedition into enemy territory. But i must say it in heartening to see that Sir Jean expects no reward for his service to the Knyaz an as for killing me where I stand...please do try. You will be more than surprised by the outcome. Then we will be able to continue on with our mission."

"I would be careful of any assumptions about our motivations on your part, Zmija," interrupts A'kos.  "This is not the first time Loukas has spoken out of turn and insulted the Frank, thus the Knight has right to defend his honor as he sees fit."

"As for your challenges and your loyalties - have a care on any assumptions.  I know the Frank, and knowing him I can be certain of his motivations, thus can coexist with him.  You I do not know, thus would not see you weaken this party immeasurably in any sort of foolish challenge."

"All that said, give me your reasons for destroying the aqueduct, and I shall give you my ear...but I will also point out when your logic is faulty.  You've three of the party who've pointed out the same weakness - as a leader you would be foolish not to reassess your position and consider our words...carefully.  I would expect such a plan from Loukas - not from the emissary of the Knyaz."

The Knight moves to  a position where he can attack Zmija without endangering the rest of the group. He has not quite assumed a guard yet but sword and shield are both in hand.

"Best speak quickly and well Heathen for I would see you dead for your foolish words. Only full contrition on your part will stay my hand."

Zmija first talks to the Magyar..."It is true you do not know me well. It is also true you do not know the mind of the Knyaz as well as I. I think you are about to see why I was given this task though."

He then looks at Sir jean and throws his own quarterstaff to the ground and says..."Please show us the flower of Frankish knighthood and attack this unarmed man."

"Only one has drawn a weapon, A'kos..."

As Jean pursued his duel with Zmija Louka shrugged and sat back to watch the show. This will not end well... he thinks.

Turning to Roderychus, "I apologize for misunderstanding you, but I fear you have understood me as well, for I did not mean to make any comment on your value as a warrior. I have seen you in battle and honor you for what I have seen. If it seemed as if I was suggesting otherwise, please pardon me. I merely disagree that cutting off the city's water is crueler than putting it through the battle, which is inevitable if they are not forced to surrender. This is what I had understood you to be arguing."

OOC: Since the fight is proceeding Loukas will not attempt to speak while everyone is watching it. I'll maybe pick up where I was intending to leave off once the excitement is over.
This message was last edited by the player at 16:35, Sat 26 Dec 2009.

"Not that any of you are listening to reason at this point, but the aqueduct is made of ceramic, not cement.  I have a spell that could heat it up, and then perhaps our weapons can damage it.  Maybe we should give it a try.  By the way, Loukas you referred to me as Magus.  My proper title according to my grade at the magic college is Conjurer, just so you know."
This message was last edited by the player at 21:08, Fri 25 Dec 2009.

"No harm done, Loukas." the knight says with a smile "Zmija, brother Jean, we would do better now focusing in the matter at hand. We presented our reasonings and, apparently, Zmija has chosen  the course of action proposed by Loukas. As you have the authority, and the responsibility, of the decision, Zmija, I believe we should proceed on the planning of how it shall be accomplished. Any personal matters that eventually remain should be dealt with afterwards."

"I'm on record - 'tis a faulty plan," shrugs A'kos, "but I will not see bloodshed between allies."

Walking between the two men and looks first at one then the other and grins.

"If one of you falls, I fall too, because you'll have to cut me down to get to each other...though perhaps you wish that as well.  Time to move out is now, before the sun gets too high.  We head toward the pipe and wait for the dawn patrol, then make our way down to find what we may by the sun's early light."

[OOC: No I will not be goaded into a fighting a monk unarmed. I made it clear to the GM that if he gave anything other then an apology Jean would attack. Since he spoke before he threw his weapon down (and btw Zmija has had a staff in his hand the whole time Loukas) Jean will be attacking him either before or while he is casting it aside. In any case it is a few centuries yet before chivalry is to be invented.

Needless to say there will not be time for all this side conversation and attempts at stepping between them. The discussion hasn't been about the aquaduct for some time but rather about whether or not Jean will tolerate being spoken to in a derogatory manner. He will not. He asked for an apology several times and got threats. Truthfully I believe I should have attacked him long before now but I only just noticed that he isn't a PC and was trying to avoid a killing fight with a fellow player.

Regardless it is, as they say, on.]

After he attacks (and assuming Zmija will still be standing which I do) Jean will speak.

"That you are qualified to perform your duties I have no doubt but no man on Earth, be he pagan, Christian, or God help me, the Messiah himself will speak thus to me, meeting each opportunity to recant with new threats and insults, and not face combat."

In that case ...

Balthazar takes out a small bag of corn kernels from his backpack and holds it out in his left hand.  He murmurs an incantation over the bag as he waves his right hand over it.  Intense heat surges over the bag and the kernels start to pop.  After they are finished, Balthazar opens the bag of popcorn and serves a portion to anyone who wants it.  Then he settles down to watch the fight.

Realizing what a jackass Jean is being, A'kos nods his head toward the monk and bows out of their way.

"Good luck, Zmija," he says, turning to take a seat next to Balthazar.  "Can I have some popcorn?"

OOC: Your history is faulty Jean - The Song of Roland c. 11 century documents chivalry and courtly love in 9th century England, and there is enough other written documentation detailing behavior expected of knights and other nobility from earlier in the dark ages to dispute your assertion.  Google is a wonderful tool.  Oh, and for the record...this is boring.  Why do most of these interparty disputes start with your character?
This message was last edited by the player at 02:28, Sat 26 Dec 2009.

(OOC For the record this one started with you and Loukas and the last one started with Loukas. Also the 11th century is several decades away, and the Song of Roland is a work of fiction not a historical document. I've got an idea, if people don't want Jean to respond in anger then perhaps they should not insult him.)

(OOC - The song of Roland wasn't about an English Knight, it was about one of Charlemagne's Frankish Knights, and it took place (if I remember correctly) wholly in Saracen (Muslim) Spain. That said, I do believe most scholars consider the battle historical. The event predates us in the game, by the way.)

Sir Jean attacks the monk with great ferocity and while Zmija moves like the wind he finds the savagery of the opening of this fight more than a little overwhelming. Jean is a big heavy warrior in heavy armor. Two mighty wounds bleed through the monks brown robes as he throws his own attacks.

His hands whip out like the rolling of a wave on the ocean. His first strike lands on Jeans helm and does nothing to slow the man but his second comes from underneath and slams Jeans head backward.

The mace-like force of the mysterious Monk's open handed blow satisfied Jean that he had not underestimated Zmija's combat abilities. With that in mind he continues to drive home his attack.
This message was last edited by the player at 06:49, Sat 26 Dec 2009.

Sir Jean continues to pressure the monk and lands a horrendous blow with his longsword to the head of the monk. His second blow barely misses the swaying form of the Rus holyman.

With rivulets of blood cascading down his face the monk again lashes out with his fists emulating the motion of a wave. His first strike lands on the side of Jeans helm snapping his neck violently to the side but his second strike is picked up on Jeans shield.-6 HP

So Jean's gone down?  Wow.

Balthazar nods to Zmija in a job-well-done fashion, then sets about doing what he can to bind Jean's wounds so he doesn't bleed to death.

OOC note: and this is why I prefer to use the weapon vs armor type rules.  Monks usually have to resort to polearms when fighting men in armor, but in this case with Zmija also having levels in cleric he'd be kinda screwed.

Jean is not down by a long shot...he is getting better of the monk right now. Maybe I need to write things more clearly?

(OOC Jean is not down. In fact he is barely hurt although it is unlikely to remain that way considering Zmijas level. Also 1st edition doesn't work like 3rd. To be a dual class character he would have a certain level of Cleric and a certain level of Monk with the full abilities of both.)

Yeah, I guess you meant to say he took 6 damage but instead I read it as he's down to -6.

In dual-classing you have take the restrictions of both classes, whereas in multiclassing you ignore the restrictions.  Hence a dual-classed cleric/monk would be unable to use edged weapons.

Jean circles to his shield side and continues his assault of well aimed blows on the lethal pagan holy man.

"In a matter of honor an apology is as valuable as blood. It is as clear you have underestimated my strength as it is that I did not, as you believed, underestimate yours."

Jean makes the mistake of stopping combative actions to request an apology and Zmija does not even slow up as the Frankish knight speaks. His first attack glances off of the knights helm but his follow up knocks Sir Jean flat onto his back gasping for the air that has been knocked out of his lungs.

10:52, Today: Nestor rolled 1 using 1d6. correct roll, how many rds stunned.
10:51, Today: Zmija rolled 10 using 3d4.
10:51, Today: Zmija rolled 20 using 1d20.
10:50, Today: Zmija rolled 2 using 1d20.

Zmija begins to launch an attack at Jean while the knight is prone but instead stops and takes a step back...than again he steps forward and kneels down and lays his hands upon the Frank, letting the healing power of his faith surge through his hands and into the knights body.

He then stands and says..."I concede Sir Jean. Enough blood has been spilled today and most of it mine. I offer my sincere apologies for my behavior, first in insulting you then in fighting like a madman against you."

A'kos stands.  Disgusted, he makes his way to the horses to check on Storm's Wind and the Arabian, and make sure they are saddled up.

Jean extends his hand to the Monk.

"It is forgotten. In truth your skill is beyond me. Twas but rage and luck that kept me in this duel."

"I expect we have the measure of one another now and will be the better for it."

Rubbing his jaw the Knight removes his helmet and smiling painfully speaks,

"Balthazar you were saying something about the Aqueduct?"

Standing and feeling more than a little relieved that things had ended as they appear to have, Loukas speaks, "He was saying that if the aqueduct is indeed made of ceramic that he could possibly heat the stuff to make our weapons more effective against it. I have never seen such a structure made of anything less than cement, but perhaps what A'kos saw is a location where the harder outside wall of the aqueduct has cracked and the inside is ceramic? Regardless, we should take a closer look, I think."

Zmija shakes his head at Jean as he takes his hand..."Twas only luck on my part that you chose to give me a chance to surrender and save my life. If my wits were about me I would have just stopped fighting rather than attack you while you spoke. I am far closer to death than you are. The battle is yours good Knight."

A'kos nods to Jaleh when her horse is ready.


He grins to her, sharing a secret joke, though it is a small one as his gaze falls back on the feuding men.  Shaking his head, he hands her the reins of the Arabian, then climbs aboard Storm's Wind.

Zmija takes a moment to heal himself somewhat from his encounter with Jean.

He is still covered in his own blood and there are still open wounds that look to be on their way to closing when he speaks..."I beg of you all, let us follow Loukas's suggestion and at least look at the aqueduct before deciding. If you all still feel we should not destroy it then I will go along with your decision."

Jean whistles faintly and calls his horse to his side. When it arrives he begin to prepare it to travel.

Grinning back at A'kos from her horse, Jaleh follows his gaze to the other men. She quietly observed them a few moments before shrugging slightly to herself and moving her horse forward, chuckling softly over the shared joke.

With some relief, Loukas picks himself up and follows the others. Mounting his horse it is clear that while he is not quite the horseman Jean, A'kos, and Roderychus are, he is no less comfortable in the saddle... Though, as they get underway the glance he gives Zmija suggests that he wishes he could be as facile on foot as the priest is.
This message was last edited by the player at 03:24, Wed 30 Dec 2009.

"Fine, let us move." the young paladin says as he mounts his steed.

A'kos leads the way to the aqueduct followed closely by Jaleh on her fine Arabian.

When they get there is is as Loukas thought, the outer cement layer was missing and on the ground leaving only the fragile ceramic tube in place...at least for the 10 foot section of aqueduct before them. There looks to be some abandoned tools and other work items around as well giving the hint that perhaps this section was under repair when the alarm was raised by the attack on the city.

This section does not look hard to break at all if it comes to that.

Zmija scouts around the area as the others look to the works in front of them. A few moments later the monk returns with an urgent look on his face and he flashes the five fingers of his right hand three times and then quickly points south along the pipeline as he makes the motion for silence, a lone finger to his lips, with his left hand.

Jean schools his mount to silence and holds his spear ready in his right hand.

He will gesture for those less familiar with their horses to cover the animals eyes in order ro still them.

Loukas felt a certain amount of relief when they discovered the "hole" in the aqueduct. The discovery of the tools made it even better -- they would not have to damage their weapons, nor return to the fleet in search of something that would put a hole in cement.

When Zmija returns with his warning, the young Greek quickly looks for a good place to conceal himself and to thinks, Well, it is not as if you can expect everything to go your way for once..."

A'kos draws his sword, and tightens his grip on the reins of Storm's Wind as he awaits the approach of danger.

Jaleh, seeing the others begin preparing themselves, begins to do similarly and looks for a place to conceal herself and her horse, even if that meant laying it down in a gully. She wanted a place to effectively disappear. That was not so hard for her, but she had a horse...

Balthazar bids Michael watch as many of the party's horses as he can while he (Balthazar) finds a place to hide near or by the aqueduct.  He readies his longbow and nocks an arrow.
This message was last edited by the player at 00:47, Sun 03 Jan 2010.

All those who looked for a good place to conceal themselves do so without any trouble among the boulders and brush near the aqueduct. Michael does his best to keep the horses quiet and out of sight.

Only A'kos, Jean, Conn and Roderychus remain on the trail and can be seen by the approaching troupe. At first sight they are about 60 feet away and are completely taken by surprise by the sight of four horsemen in their path.

The party is all surprised by what they see, rather than a unit of Imperial soldiers they see a band of 15 mixed Pecheneg, Orc and half-orcs dressed in a mish-mash of tribal and Byzantine armor and weaponry. They are all armed with the short composite bow of the Turkish steppe dwellers and a curved saber and round shield.

Pechenegs are a Turkish tribe that in habit the area...in our game world, they are closely allied with Orcish tribes of the steppe and often serve an mercenaries in the area to  he highest bider and that usually is the Byzantine government.

Jean waits for a signal from Zmija to attack.

Once he sees it he will charge full tilt into them.
This message was last edited by the player at 16:33, Sun 03 Jan 2010.

Balthazar makes sure he fires his arrow (can he get both arrows off?) before Jean reaches them.

ROF is 2/1 for long bow so Balthazar should be good:)

A'kos glances at the approaching band, then looks to his companions.

"I'm ready when you are," he says.

"Forth then, before they alert any others!"

Once she was among the boulders, Jaleh secured the horses reigns under a smaller stone so that it would not wander off and give her away. She then readied her shortbow and shimmied up the side of a larger rock, where she leaned back, laying her body against the side of it to minimize her profile and remain unseen. With those prepartions done, Jaleh cautiously nocked an arrow and began to take aim at one of the important looking Orcs. Orcs were big and brutish, she reasoned, take down the biggest among them and the rest would likely flee, or at very least begin to lose hope.

She waited and held her time for a good time to strike and then let the arrow fly. At the worse possible moment her shot was foiled by a fly in her eye.

Today: Jaleh rolled 86 using 1d100 for assasination attempt (failed).
Today: Jaleh rolled 2 using 1d6 for bow damage.

Actually, before anybody starts firing arrows, Balthazar will cast sleep from his ring.  Only 60 feet away, should be no problem.  (Darn that's pretty close for an outdoor encounter).

Before anyone has a chance to act, Balthazar uses his ring to cast a spell of sleep over the approaching enemy. Once again his magic has a telling effect and 9 of the 15 riders drop to the ground..for some reason their horses seem unaffected by the spell.

Not only are the riders taken by surprise but they are in a state of panic/confusion making all attacks on them +1 this round.

Parties actions now...they are still 60 feet away, perfect for a charge on horseback but not on foot. If you have already rolled this rounds attack, I ask you do it again giving yourself +1 to hit.

Balthazar pumps his fist upon seeing the results.

Jean heeled his mount and the big warhorse exploded forward charging into the few remaining enemies like a thunderbolt.

Loukas grew impatient, so rather than waiting for the patrol riders to come to them, he drew back his short bow and fired at one of those unaffected by Balthazar's spell.

17:34, Today: A'kos, the Falcon rolled 10 using 1d8+5.
17:34, Today: A'kos, the Falcon rolled 13 using 1d20+6. to hit 2nd att.
17:33, Today: A'kos, the Falcon rolled 7 using 1d20+6. to hit 1st att.

As Jean charges A'kos rides hard on his heels, his sword in hand.  As he approaches he attempts an overhand chop (let's hope I didn't just kill Jean accidentally w/ that '1')...recovering his balance, he swiftly deals his target a telling blow.

Roderychus charges, trying to trample some of the enemies who are still standing while hitting one with his sword.

01:47, Today: Roderychus Venturos rolled 8 using 2d4+4 with rolls of 1,3. Roderychus sword damage.
01:45, Today: Roderychus Venturos rolled 17 using 1d20+4 with rolls of 13. Roderychus sword attack.
01:43, Today: Roderychus Venturos rolled 25 using 3d20 with rolls of 12,5,8. Bite, Hoof, Hoof.

Frustrated, Jaleh blew a strand of hair out of her face having shooed the fly away. She drew back her bow once more and took careful aim on one of the orcs again, then let the arrow fly.

oday: Jaleh rolled 50 using 1d100 for an assassination attempt. (succeeded)

OOC: Oh, you're playing an assassin.  Very cool.

DM: With the sleep spell cast, Balthazar switches back to his bow and starts firing.  Lemme know when I can start rolling the dice.
This message was last edited by the player at 02:19, Thu 07 Jan 2010.

Balthazar can fire away this round. The bad guys are 60 feet away so there is time before the others reach them with the charge.

Yes she is an assassin...cool ain't it?

Nothing like getting surprise!

07:28, Today: Balthazar the Hedonite rolled 14 using 1d20+2.
07:28, Today: Balthazar the Hedonite rolled 9 using 1d20+2. bow shot.

+2 for dex, btw.  14 hits ac 7, does that hit anybody?

Jaleh, Loukas and Balthazar each loose a volley of arrows at the horsemen as the others charge them. Balthazar and Loukas each land one of two shots scoring wounding hits on different horsemen. Jaleh manages to kill one outright with a precise deadly shot into the brain via the eye.


Jean is the first to slam into the confused group of Orcish riders landing a very solid blow to one the foes hit by Balthazar's arrow. The tip of his lance slams into then out of the horseman as the beastmans life exits his body.

A'kos following closely on the heel of Jean smites one of the foe a terrible rocking him on his horse. The orcsih warrior is able to retain his seat but just barely.

Roderychus and his mount launch into the group of foeman in a flurry of blade, teeth and hoof leaving one of the Orcs unhorsed and severely injured.

Conn attacks the orc shot by Loukas but has little luck against the beast.

Still suffering from his battle with Sir Jean, Zmija is the last to hit the enemy, his first attack is caught on the enemies shield but his second stuns the orcish warrior and sets him on the ground with a dazed look on his face.

The orcs, though now outnumbered heavily keep on fighting. The beast engaged with A'kos manages to land a shot but much of it is absorbed by the Magyars armor

The orc engaged with Roderychus is unable to get through the Byzantine Knights armor. The same with the orc engaged with Conn, even with Loukas arrow sticking out of him he can do nothing.

1 orc engaged with A'kos, 1 with Conn, Zmija has stunned the last. Man that was pretty fast and furious. These guys were pretty tough, you did well. It owuld have been Hellish if Balthazar had not had such a great result. Actions?

Loukas begins putting arrows into the Orcs that had fallen to Balthazar's spell.

Jean wheels his mount using only his knees, draws his longsword, and attacks the Orcs engaging the others from behind.

A'kos growls at his own carelessness and trades another blow with the mongrel.

19:29, Today: A'kos, the Falcon rolled 8 using 1d8+5.
19:29, Today: A'kos, the Falcon rolled 10 using 1d20+5.

Storm's Wind stumbles, and his blow is hastily timed.  Cursing in his native tongue A'kos lines up his next two attacks...

Balthazar watches for an opportunity to take a shot.  Meanwhile, he whistles to Jaleh, "That was one sweet shot you took, Jaleh.  I'm very impressed."

As the orc misses his strike Roderychus presses on, slashing with his sword on the enemie's side.

Sir Jean joins Conn in his attack on the Orc and soon the beast lay in two pieces at their feet.

Roderychus also makes quick work of the Orc he is engaged with finishing it with a thrust through it's unarmored neck as Zmija pounces on his stunned opponent and delivers a series of devastating blows that kill the fallen Pecheneg orc.

A'kos has less luck with his foe as his sword is caught on the round shield. The orc has similar luck as A'kos parries the beast blow with his own blade.

Loukas and Jaleh quickly dispatch the beasts under Balthazar's sleep spell with both arrow and blade.

The only Pecheneg/Orc still alive is the one engaged with A'kos...this battle has taken the form of individual combat at this point as the two seem relatively well matched. The Orc looks the same as the others but seems to have more skill than they displayed.

Zmija stands back from the combat and holds his hand up signaling to the others to let this combat between the two proceed.

The Knight is bit perplexed at the idea of a single combat in the middle of a battle but none the less he complies.

Cleaning the gore from Coffin Nail he resheaths the blade and watches calmly.

Zmija reads the expression on the knights face and slides next to him and talks in a very low voice.

Jean nods grimly, agreeing with Zmija's words.

Jaleh stayed in hiding where she was and sighted in on the only remaining orc fighting A'kos. She seriously considered killing it, driving an arrow through one ear and out the other. But she didn't. She maintained the aim and let A'kos have his fight. She was reasonably certain that it would upset A'kos if she got in the way of his proving his manhood.

20:21, Today: A'kos, the Falcon rolled 10 using 1d8+5. dmg.
20:20, Today: A'kos, the Falcon rolled 12 using 1d20+5.
20:20, Today: A'kos, the Falcon rolled 7 using 1d20+5. to hit.


The Falcon's surprise at the orc's courage throws his concentration, and his next sword stroke is mistimed and ill-aimed.  Regaining his balance his next swing is a solid one, yet he cannot tell if it draws blood or not.

"HOLD," he shouts to the others.  "This ugly bastard is MINE!"

Loukas had been about to take aim on the Orc fighting A'kos when his friend shouted his claim. There was little he could do, so despite his nagging sense of discomfort he held his fire. Nevertheless, he took aim on the enemy and held his shot in case...

The orc quakes when the blade of the falcon hits him in the chest. While the armor holds up A'kos can feel ribs cracking and snapping underneath. The beast reels but manages to land a weak attack of his own against the Magyars right leg.

Even as he scores a hit the beast is looking weak in the saddle.

Balthazar remarks to no one in particular, "Think of how much more efficient a fighting force we'd be if we didn't let honor get in the way."

Seeing the orc tiring, A'kos is content to continue to wear him down.

23:04, Today: A'kos, the Falcon rolled 10 using 1d8+5.
23:04, Today: A'kos, the Falcon rolled 10 using 1d20+5. to hit.

Another blow is designed to force the injured beastie into a parry that will leave it open during his next attack.

OOC: Funny what a fickle bitch the dice roller is when your character stands upon a stage by himself.  Fine bit of ad libbing for the sorry excuse of a roll I just had...

The orc rider manages to catch A'kos's attack on his shield but finds his own attack whizzing in the air as the Magyar horseman deftly uses his mounts movement as his own defense.

20:01, Today: A'kos, the Falcon rolled 12 using 1d8+5. dmg..
20:00, Today: A'kos, the Falcon rolled 6 using 1d20+5.
20:00, Today: A'kos, the Falcon rolled 24 using 1d20+5. to hit...or not to hit..

Growling in disgust A'kos ducks and weaves past the orcs weakening defense and stands in his stirrup for a massive overhand chop.  He shouts in triumph and relief as his blade strikes home, than cries in dismay as his sword angle overbalances him and nearly forces him off his mount.

Trying to recover, he becomes an entangle mass in reins and tack and harness...and at the last looks up to see if his foe survived.

"Dammit, gentleman, you should know better'n to listen to me!" he exclaims.  "And I certainly thought you knew better, Jaleh!"

The orcish rider drops from his saddle and lies still on the ground, dead.

Time to sabotage the aqueduct.  Oh, and loot the bodies :)
This message was last edited by the player at 04:13, Thu 14 Jan 2010.

Loukas quickly went out and attempted to collect whatever arrows he shot that remain unbroken.

Once done he returned to where they had been before the patrol appeared. "Well, we ought to have a bit more time before another patrol appears, but let us work quickly nevertheless so that we can get back to the fleet and let the King know that he has the city by the throat. It would not do for them to be able to repair this thing before they have been forced to surrender!"

"Why would I know better? I thought you were probing your manhood!" Jaleh called back to A'kos with a laugh. "You didn't really want me to unman you by dropping your foe did you?"

"I'd rather my manhood was spent probing you, darlin'," grins the Magyar, though he is sorely annoyed that such a lesser foe took him to task.

Spending a moment to untangle himself he looks up at one of the holy knights.

"Don' suppose anyone has the gift of healing?" he asks nonchalantly.
This message was last edited by the player at 01:15, Fri 15 Jan 2010.

"Oh yes, yes. Of course you would." Jaleh replied with additional laughter. "Are you not worried then that other men may seen as more manly than you?"

"Certainly!" Roderichus says while he lays his hands on the wounds inflicted by the orc.

"Just out of curiousity Jaleh, how manly was my sleep spell?  After all it took down most of the foes."  He gives her a wink to indicate his jesting nature.

After his near abysmal performance in the battle with the patrol Conn of Skye looks to redeem himself as he picks up one of the workmen's heavy hammers and heads toward the exposed ceramic pipeline.

"If you wish to see manly, take a gander at this!" He swings the tool in a mighty arc towards the aqueduct.

Roderychus lays his hands on A'kos and there is a faint glow about them that spread to envelop all of the Magyars body, then as fast as it appeared it is gone.

Conn has more success than he wanted to with his one hammer blow as the ceramic aqueduct literally explodes knocking him off his feet with a raging torrent of ice cold mountain spring water a foot wide. There is no doubt, this source of fresh water for the city has been severed.

Zmija joins Loukas in searching the bodies once the duct is destroyed.

The loot:
15 falchions, 2 look of superior quality
15 suits of studded leather, 1 looks much better than the others
15 small round shields
15 daggers
15 shortbows
too many arrows to count
15 Iron caps
15 light warhorses

Jean almost bursts into open laughter as the aqueduct gives way to a single blow.

Looking up from where he and Zmija were standing amongst the bodies, Loukas sees Conn experiencing his successful blow on the aqueduct. "Manhood confirmed!"

"It seems to me that the horses would not only be the easiest things take from this lot, but also the most valuable."

Jaleh laughed and replied in a teasing tone, "Oh by far a potent spell. Magic is such a mysterious craft though. It's hard to judge because so many women can do it too. I suppose it depends on if one thinks scholars are manly."

She laughed a bit harder and clapped at Conn's display. "There. Now see, that is a manly action, smashing earthenware with a big hammer. Yes, yes, manliness confirmed." Jaleh added in a slightly mocking tone.

"Play nice, Jaleh," chuckles A'kos at her rapier witticisms.

To Roderychus he nods his thanks.

"Puissant indeed, Warrior of Christ.  You have my thanks."

Feeling hale again he looks at the group and let's out a guffaw.

"That was the most pathetic showing of force since I was 12 years old and stumbled across a lone goblin marauder from some nearby hills."

Shaking his head in self deprecating disgust he says to the group, "First round is on me when we take the city."

The Rus Monk claps A'kos on the back and says..."I know the feeling but at least you finished him. Judging by his superior weapon and armor he was the captain of this party."

He looks to Loukas and says..."Yes, we should take the horses and at least the weapons, can I count on you to secure the items to one of the mounts? We need to get moving if we wish to meet the others before nightfall. With any luck they will be waiting on us at the opposite shore." As he speaks, the monk helps to round up the gear from the fallen Orcs to take and pack on the horses.
This message was last edited by the player at 17:52, Tue 19 Jan 2010.

While the loot is being loaded Jean, still smiling faintly, rides off a short distance to be certain they are not about to have more company.

Loukas responds to the Monk, "Yes, Zmija, I shall endeavor to do so."

As begins to deal with the gear and the horses he turns to the party, "Another pair of hands or two will make this happen faster, my friends"

Given the need to get going Loukas makes an effort not to bring along any item that is not in good condition. Otherwise he uses his experience on his father's merchant caravans to pack the horses as securely as possible.
This message was last edited by the player at 21:54, Tue 19 Jan 2010.

Roderychus assists Loukas with the arms "We should head back at once as you say, Zmija."

A'kos dismounts with a flourish and lends a hand to the scavenging.

Balthazar lends a hand as well.
This message was last edited by the player at 12:45, Wed 20 Jan 2010.

Jaleh tethers her horse to something nearby so it would stay put and then joins in the scavenging with the others.

Within twenty minutes the bodies are striped and the gear loaded onto the horses. Enough gear to equip a similar sized patrol, while not gems and gold, this is still a valuable haul including the mounts, all light warhorses of decent quality.

Zmija gives the signal to head out and A'kos falls right back into the role of a steppe horseman as he guides the captured mounts with just his horse and skill alone.
This message was last edited by the GM at 18:54, Thu 21 Jan 2010.

I didn't think there was actually an NPC with us named Nestor...

oops! That should say Zmija:)

The rest of the day is fairly uneventful, the city remains on the parties right hand side at a safe distance. occasionally guards can be seen on the wall but are too far away to fire any missile weapons at the party.

By dusk the party reaches sea and the far east wall of the city. A lone dragon ship can be seen a few hundred feet off shore with an unmistakable outline.

"What's the signal, Zmija?" asks A'kos, staring out over the water toward the ship.

"I'm certain that's the Heart of Oak...the outline is unmistakable."

"Aye Jean, that is the Heart...but as A'kos points out, there was a signal needed. Thought he ship is easy to spot, we are not in the low light. This is something Miroslav and I had talked about."

He then reaches in his belt pouch and produces a round object wrapped in heavy cloth about the size of a plumb. As he begins to unwrap the object the is bathed in a bright light. From inside the cloth he takes out a glowing orb. Anyone familiar with magic will see this as an object that a permanent light spell had been cast on.

Zmija takes this glowing ball and tosses it high in the air clearly as a signal tot he ship.

Signal is obviously received as the Heart of Oak heads for the beach.

Everyone now go to the thread titled "reunion". Xp will be dished out shortly.