Upon Hau'dn's announcement, Caylin merely shrugs and returns to the task of securing his own gear.  Hearing Totmacher taunting Asher, the halfling calls out, "Leave offa that, big man.  We've a ways t' travel, if'n we're t' catch them beasties ye've been ridin'."

Perrato finishes his morning prayers, ending with the ritual request for guidance and succor in pathless lands.  Garryn readies his gear, and Villhalas does the same.  Asher has had his belongings ready for some time, and Totmacher quickly assembles his own.  Hau'dn also gathers his gear, preparing to move out.

The party breaks camp and gets ready to depart, when Caylin speaks up.  "What d'ye plan on doin' wi' th' saddles an' tack, then?  If'n we leave 'em here, can ye then ride th' horses back wi'out?"

OOC:  Those of you without any ranks in Ride cannot ride bareback.  What do you want to do?

"What morning is not a good morning to see new country?" says Perrato, surveying the horizon with a mild smile. "Ah, my friends, do not think I have forgotten your suffering. A journey however short, to be best appreciated, must be made with one's best possible health." Reaffirming his service to Vagrani, the cleric again applies some of the divine energies granted him to the mending of the party's wounds.

[Via Spontaneous casting Perrato replaces Remove Paralysis with Cure Moderate wounds for Totmacher, Hold Person with Cure Moderate wounds for Hau'dn, and Endure Elements with Cure Light wounds for Caylin.]

[21:53, Today: Perrato Viatomagne rolled 8 using 2d8+4. Cure Moderate Wounds--Totmacher.]
[21:53, Today: Perrato Viatomagne rolled 20 using 2d8+4. Cure Moderate Wounds--Hau'dn.]
[21:54, Today: Perrato Viatomagne rolled 11 using 1d8+4. Cure Light Wounds--Caylin.]

Totmacher has no issues with leaving the saddles and tack behind.

Totmacher is now at full stregnth.

Totmacher nods in approval of Perrato's healing.  "Well done priest!"

"Ahh.  Yer a credit t' yer cousin, priest o' th' new gods.  An' that man saved me sister...I thank both him, an' now ye, Perrato."

"..Ah - right you are Caylin.  I, for one, will definitely need this saddle..  Think your pony's up to hauling these for us??" Villhalas adds as he gathers his gear..

V

OOC:  No ride skill here.  will want to rig my gear to Caylin's mount if possible..

07:40, Today: Villhalas of Cameron rolled 18 using 1d20+5. Use Rope Chk - Rigging.

The halfling sighs unhappily, looking at the extra tack and gear his pony would have to haul.  Nonetheless, Caylin shrugs as Villhalas begins to strap his saddle and tack to the pony.  Moving to help the sorcerer, the halfling and the half-elf mnage to secure Garryn's, Asher's, Perrato's, and Villhalas' saddles and tack onto the pony.  Caylin mutters all the while, "Easy wi' th' cinchin', sorcerer--ye'll leave welts an' blisters on me ol' girl.  An', fer Danu's sake, will ye jest....here, let me...."  Somewhat awkwardly, the two manage the task, with only a bit of bickering.

Totmacher's saddle is left behind, as the barbarian can ride bareback.  Hau'dn must carry his own saddle, and shrugs resignedly as he shoulders his burden.

At approximately nine bells, the party is ready to depart their campsite...headed southeast through the perimeter of the Blackthorn Hills.

OOC:  Kevin, is Mal'ach rested up yet?  Perhaps we should have Hau'dn (as long as he's w/us..) make an attempt at picking up their tracks...

Casting a sympathetic glance in the direction of the pony, Perrato says,"This is much appreciated, Caylin. More than thanks enough for performing my charge to our group." The oriest scans the rest of the group and inquires, "Are there others who require the healing art? I am still able, but it might be prudent to hold something in reserve for the journey. Si no, ¡Vayamos!"

"My injuries can wait, save what remains should another emergency arise," Garryn advises as he begins to pack up the equipment he stored on his horse.

"My thanks to you and your pony, Archer"

Having loaded Caylin's pony with as much tack as could reasonably be expected, the party sets off towards the southeast.  Regaining the road, they soon depart the rutted wheel tracks, traveling overland.  The going alternates between relatively easy and requiring some significant effort.  Large, extensive brakes of blackthorn occasionally interpose themselves in the party's path, and must either be circumvented or bushwhacked.  Other topographical challenges, from ravines, steep and treacherous slopes, and thickets of various types of vegetation all combine to limit progress.  By noon, however, the group is descending from the hills into more level terrain.

The hill country segues into flatter, grass-filled plains dotted with copses of trees.  This is open country, and the party can see further than they could in the Blackthorns, and can likewise be seen more easily...

The party keeps moving across the grass-grown plains.  High buffalo grass and bluestem orchard grass rises to chest height.  Caylin's pony nips at the grass as the party proceeds, munching on the hoof.  Soon, the party sights a group of horses in the distance...albeit a larger group of horses than their own mounts would comprise.  Mounted riders, apparently, have drawn near the party's riderless horses.

OOC:  Need some Spot checks from everyone

OOC: 21:34, Today: Asher Willbourne rolled 13 using 1d20+7. Spot check.

21:59, Today: Totmacher of the Wilds rolled 23 using 1d20+5. Spot (w/mods).

23:12, Today: Villhalas of Cameron rolled 14 using 1d20+6. Spot.

Though Garryn was giving serious consideration to abandoning some of his heavier equipment he still took ample notice of his surroundings as he toiled under the additional burden.

Garryn the Grey rolled 22 using 1d20+7. Spot Check.

Perrato's attention is absorbed in the natural beauty of the surrounding countryside, though perhaps many practical specifics elude him.

[17:38, Today: Perrato Viatomagne rolled 14 using 1d20+3. Belated Spot Check.]

While the rest of the party can make out the presence of riders, only Garryn and Totmacher can discern that these are elves--albeit of an apparently less elegant appearance than either would have expected.  Additionally, a robed human seems to be traveling with the elves.

OOC:  Moves?  Sorry things have been so slow, but I will be finished teaching by next week.  Summer break (with only one job to deal with) will allow me a lot more time to devote to the campaign.  Cheers.

Having been roused from his contemplations by something out of the corner of his eye, Asher squints to see if he can recognize his or his companions mounts within the mix.

15:24, Today: Asher Willbourne rolled 25 using 1d20+7. Spot more info.

"Totmacher, Garryn -- Can you make them out?  Humans..???"

"Looks like elves.  Racial cleansing elves."

Totmacher unsheathes his Great Axe and lowers his position and gestures to the team to do the same.

Kev, can you provide a map of the area and the position of the sun?

Noting his sibling's actions, Vil nods and takes a knee.  Once there, Vil reaches over his shoulder and unsheathes his crossbow - bringing it to rest comfortably across his knee.  "Can you tell if they've spotted us??  If they have, I'm going to bring to bring in some support -- Sorcerer-style..  Don't be alarmed by their arrival.."

V
This message was last edited by the player at 19:35, Tue 14 June 2005.

OOC: That must have been some spot check Tot, to allow you to see those little tiny swastika tattoos from here. ;)

Perrato expresses his concern with the notoriously human-unfriendly elves of Arret as he too prepares his crossbow. "We should most certainly attempt some sort of diplomatic contact with these fey folk. De todos modos, I do not envy the fate of the human in their charge. Might it be prudent to conceal an archer, such as Señor Caylin, somewhere he might be able to avoid notice by the fey?"

Hearing the Wisdom in their New Acquaintance's words, Vil looks over to Garryn and Totmacher - "..The Cleric may have a point here.  Caylin - would you be so kind???"    Vil looks back over to the Barbarian, Rogue and Monk - who seem to have a better view of their Quarry "How many are we talking about anyway???"


V
This message was last edited by the player at 15:10, Wed 15 June 2005.

The monk, squinting against the glare of the early afternoon sun, can make out at least two mounts that he finds familiar--his own and the party's spare mount.

Totmacher and Garryn can make out a total of ten mounted elves, plus the human.  One of the elves appears to be mounted on a spectral horse.
This message was last edited by the GM at 17:31, Wed 15 June 2005.

The party has found itself continuing to descend from the Blackthorn Hills into the plains.  They had followed a gently sloping draw, which looked as if it conducted water down into the plains during storm events.  The draw disappears once it hits the flatter terrain of the plains.

A small depressional wetland lies between the party and the elves--about 1.5 acres in area.  The plains are largely open grassland, interspersed with copses of trees or riparian vegetation flanking streams.  Two such copses occur to the east and southeast.  A winding column of cottonwoods and willow form a portion of a riparian corridor indicating a stream to the south.

OOC:  A new map is up on the site, under the link 'Horse Map'.  The sun is in an early afternoon sky, and plays little role in anything that you have discussed so far.

Totmacher turns towards Perrato (intentionally overlooking the diplomatic references), "Totmacher likes the way you think, Cleric, the halfling as a sniper.  Totmacher agrees.  What about you Garryn, do your arrows find Elf flesh appealing?"
This message was last edited by the player at 18:21, Wed 15 June 2005.

Shaking his head at Totmacher's comments, Vil smiles and quietly adds "Well at least He's Consistent.."

Taking a pull from his waterskin, Vil continues - "... Given this distance though...  I'm having second thoughts about posting Caylin here.  We're simply out of range...  We've got to be at least 300 meters away from the Elves..  I think we post my illusion - and move down to meet with them..  Garryn - you've been quiet. What are your thoughts?"

V

"All I know is, that is my horse, and I see at least one of yours Vil. I believe we are here to retrieve them; so let's. With this Asher cups his hands behind his back and begins to cross the plain, with each step twisting his foot slightly to carve throught the grasses like the prow of a ship cuts the waves.

OOC: Asher will clip his land speed slightly so that the slower party members can keep up if they choose. Hehe

Totmacher seeing his new groupie decend the hills towards the Elves turns towards Vil in the brush, "Damn it, that Monk and his stoicism.  Does this mean Totmacher will need to bail his ass out again?  Totmacher thinks we should delay and see how the Monk fairs.  Halfling, Garryn, are the bows ready and your wits sharpened?"  He then pauses waiting for Vil's card to be played.

"Esto es un accidente que está impaciente por pasar," observes Perrato under his breath as he checks his gear over to note the current location of bolts, scrolls, and potions. "Señor Vilhallas, do you not possess our group's silver tongue? Quizás..., rather, mightn't it be best if you were to address the fey first?"

Shouldering his Crossbow, Vil offers Tot a wink and nod.  Looking to the Cleric then - "Aye Perrato - you're right.  Diplomacy first today..  Let me cast a quick spell - and then we can catch up with our Robed Maverick.."    Vil looks around at the motley crew of characters kneeling around him, Laughs - and adds - "You never know.  Half-Orc, Half-Elf, mixed in w/a handful of grubby Humans - hell, I'm sure these Emnian Elves will just love us.."

With that, Vil maintains his kneeled position in the tall grass and begins to cast...

V

OOC:  Bret - you've been quiet.  Your thoughts on all this??
This message was last edited by the player at 14:46, Thu 16 June 2005.

Asher sets out purposefully, striding out into the long grass of the plainslands.  A blue grouse, flushed from the monk's path, explodes into the sky with a flurry of wingbeats.  This is greeted with a cry from one of the elven warriors, as the horse-mounted elves whirl their steeds to face the party from some .

Villhalas completes his spell, kneeling as the mystic syllables he speaks float languidly in the hot afternoon air.  Six figures emerge from a portion of the draw, out of sight from the plains, and join the party--an older, robed human with a staff; a human clad in half-plate with a great sword; two humans carrying long composite bows with long swords strapped to their backs; a dwarf in chainmail bearing an urgosh; and a hooded figure in leather armor, bristling with daggers in a bandoulier, and bearing a heavy, curved kukri in either hand.  The sorcerer must focus a significant bit of his attention on maintaining this small unit of illusory reinforcements.

The elven riders are beginning to spread out across the plains, riding for the party in a loose formation.  The human is with them.  The elf on the ghostly steed peels away from the riders, moving with stunning speed as he urges his mount to a gallop.  Outpacing the others by easily two to three times their speed, the elf mounted on the ghostly horse presses forward across the wetland without slowing down.


OOC:  Actions?  Plans?  Updated map on the site.

OOC:  are they bringing our mounts w/them?

Somewhat alarmed at the rate of the oncoming Elf, Vil looks to the others in the Party and Stands up.  "Caylin - stay w/the illusion.  Why don't the rest of us move up towards Asher.."  Vil raises his voice here - "Asher - a moment if you will.."   

V

OOC:  I'm planning on going down to meet them w/o a weapon drawn.  What are the rest of you thinking??

Perrato strikes out behind Villhalas in the direction of the oncoming elves, also with no weapon drawn, muttering exhortations to Vagrani all the while. "A veces, podríamos tener un plan in estos tipos de situaciones..."
This message was last edited by the player at 06:20, Fri 17 June 2005.

Asher offers the oncoming mage a polite wave, despite his distaste for illusionists. Noting the spectral horse, Asher ponders the image with a mix of respect and pity, Their ability to manipulate the ether we call existence is so like that of the monk-- but for no pupose. They will never benefit from enlightenment; they are doomed as every common thief to the eternal Chaos--



--Asher turns to see that Vilhallas and the others have not kept pace with him and are actually still where he left them. Raising an eyebrow, he nods to Vilhallas and stops to wait for him.

Not wanting to turn his back on the trickster for too long, Asher faces the rider and braces for the possible unpleasantries.

OOC: Look ma, no weapons.
This message was last edited by the player at 19:39, Thu 16 June 2005.

Garryn joins Asher and Vil with all the enthusiasm of a man walking toward gallows. He has no weapon drawn.

The elf mounted on the shimmering, surreal steed rides with preternatural speed towards Asher.  About 80 ft. from the monk, the elf veers sharply away, his eyes boring into the monk's own, and scanning the area behind Asher.  Vilhallas and Garryn walk down into the grasslands, joining Asher as the elf on the spectral horse wheels back towards the main body of the elven horsemen.  The elf calls out in a clear voice, and the mounted elves continue their galloping towards the party.
This message was last edited by the GM at 23:16, Sat 18 June 2005.

Asher calls back to Villhalas, "Can you make out what he is saying?"

As Villhalas arrives to Asher's location, he nods and says  "He's calling back to the other Riders - "Humans and Half-Breeds, unmounted!  Several remain in the draw beyond." Leveling his voice, Vil adds - "Let's keep our cool - no signs of hostility just yet.."

V

Hau'dn elects to join Asher, Villhalas, and Garryn in their attempt at parley with the elves.  The ranger reasons that his knowledge of the elven language, coupled with his time spent with the elves of the Leaflock forest, render his presence a useful one.  Hau'dn walks out to where the other three stand to meet the oncoming elves.

OOC:  I believe Tom's joining in as a part of the Envoy as well...  Jas

The elves continue their galloping ride towards Asher, Garryn, Villhalas, and Hau'dn.  The riders split and encircle the four, staying approximately 80 ft. from them, with arrows drawn nocked and trained upon the group.  Four of the riders face the draw, arrows similarly readied, while the remaining six focus their attention on Asher, Garryn, Villhalas, and Hau'dn.

A scarred elf and the elf on the ghostly steed flank the human...who appears a bit shaken and uncomfortable on his mount.  The scarred elf speaks to the human in Paldorian.

"Are these from your caravan also?"

Not deigning to await an answer from the human, the elf speaks again, this time addressing his words to the four surrounded members of the party.  "Who are you, and what is your purpose here in these open, empty lands?  Speak well and truly...I suffer lies and prevarication with little patience."

OOC:  Prepping my lines now...  Hopefully this will get them to at least a "Friendly" posture (PHB pg. 72)

17:06, Today: Villhalas of Cameron rolled 31 using 1d20+13. Elven Encounter.
This message was last edited by the player at 22:11, Fri 17 June 2005.

'To make Peace between the Races of Men and Elves - that is your Destiny my child' - Villhalas can still hear his Mother's words.  Words aimed at soothing the wounds cut deep by the Human and Elven children he had encountered in his Youth.  Balancing life between these two races had not always been easy for the Half-Elf.  But now - a Youth no longer...

Villhalas clears his throat and takes a step forward - "M'lords..  I am Villhalas of Cameron - and this is my Party." Vil nods over his shoulder in the way of the Group.*  "We have been tracking our Mounts (Vil nods in the way of their horses) - as they had fled from an encounter we had with several Griffen earlier this morning."  At this Vil smiles confidently and casually rests his hand on the hilt of his Rapier.** "In truth - finding these beasts has brought us off of our intended trail.   We've recently left Borderton - in search of a Group of Brigands who have been running unchecked up and down the Road to Deuxchay - attacking and pillaging trade caravans as they make their way peacefully along the East-West corridor."  Vil takes in the rest of the Elven party and finishes -
"Would you have any information that may assist us in tracking these Bandits down?  Your aid would be much appreciated M'lord."

V

OOC
*  - No dillusions of Grandeur here gang.  Just using this for the Elve's sake..
** - At least - I think this oversized smores-stick is called a Rapier.  I just hope they mistake the burnt-on chocolate for Griffen blood...
This message was last edited by the player at 23:26, Fri 17 June 2005.

This message was deleted by the player at 02:34, Sat 18 June 2005.

19:02, Today: Aidrin ap Gynwir rolled 13 using 1d20+1. Spot check.
18:59, Today: Aidrin ap Gynwir rolled 17 using 1d20. Wisdom check.

20:25, Today: Asher Willbourne rolled 7 using 1d20+3. Wisdom check.
20:24, Today: Asher Willbourne rolled 27 using 1d20+7. Spot check.

Today: Villhalas of Cameron rolled 21 using 1d20+6. Spot Chk

Garryn is too busy looking for impending doom to notice anything.

Garryn the Grey rolled 12 using 1d20+7. Spot Check. 

Despite the tense negotiations which will soon ensue, Perrato is absorbed in admiring the elves' footwear.

[12:44, Today: Perrato Viatomagne rolled 6 using 1d20+3. Spot (Everybody's doin' it, so why not?).]

PMs

Villhalas' speech appears to have its intended effect, and then some.  The elves, poised for combat and with arrows straining to be released from their bowstrings, relax at a subtle hand gesture by the scarred elf.  The elf mounted upon the dweomered steed also relaxes a bit, the tendons of his hands--poised to hurl a spell--ease their tension.  The scarred elf sighs.   "You travel dangerous lands, half-breed.  The gnoll tribes are fast and mobile, and will run down any who have not the quickness to elude them.  And your mounts," the elf gestures to the party's horses, grouped together and flanked by a mounted elf on each side, "are bred for human lands, and human activity.  They would bear you to ruin in combat."  The scarred elf considers briefly, as Asher, Villhalas, Hau'dn, and Garryn observe this mounted company.  The elven horses have canine teeth, and their hooves appear sharp and deadly.  The riders bear composite long bows, and long swords are slung over their shoulders.  Numerous leather straps criss-cross their minimalistic saddles, sewn with ears, horns, teeth, and other momentos--presumably harvested from the humanoid and giantish tribes of the Central Wilds.

"This one," the scarred elf gestures to the human, "claims to have been a part of your human trade along that corridor of which you speak.  He, and your mounts, are but a burden to us.  I remand this human and these horses to your care--we rely upon our skill and speed, and will not tolerate the weak in our travels."  The scarred elf gestures again, and Aidrin finds himself being bodily lifted from the saddle as two elven horsemen "help" him dismount.  The elven mage leaps from his phantom horse, waving a hand.  The horse dissolves in smokey, grey tatters, and the elf springs into the saddle of his own horse--recently vacated by Aidrin.

The elven riders, taking this as a cue, begin to gather for departure, breaking their ring formation and gathering in a loose phalanx.  The scarred elf regards Villhalas.  "You have a gift with words.  I pity you, though, half-breed.  To have the blood of The People mixed with the human mud must be crippling and soul-killing.  I commend you for having the persistence to resist ending your own life when you achieved your majority.  I would not have made the same choice."  With a wordless cry, the scarred elf urges his mount away, and his riders leap to follow.  Within seconds, the elven horsemen are but a cloud of dust on the eastern horizon.

OOC:  That Diplomacy roll was epic, raising a Hostile attitude to one of Indifference.

Letting loose an exhale audible to those around him, Villhalas adds with a half-smile "Well..  that was interesting now wasn't it.."  Shifting his focus now to the Stranger standing before them, Vil adds casually - "Perrato, would you be so kind as to see see to the young man's care if needed.  Garryn..." - Vil adds with a rogueish half-smile & brief nod in the way of the young Mage.  With that Vil turns and makes for the Draw - in order to brief Totmacher and Caylin of the encounter.

V

The ranger-bard pats his mount affectionately, glancing at the early afternoon sun.  He hesitates, glancing towards the southwest and wearing a look of concentration, then seems to come to some internal conclusion.  As the party attempts to regroup, Hau'dn speaks.

"My path is not with yours, I fear.  These environs are not mine...wide plains and brush-filled hills.  I wish to come to the forested eaves and leaf-shaded rivers of the Leaflock again.  I wish you good fortune...your road will require it."  Mounting his horse, Hau'dn nods at Villhalas, Garryn, and Asher.  Clapping his heels to the sides of his mount, Hau'dn urges the animal into a gallop--riding across the plains towards the line of hills and the road that leads to Borderton.
This message was last edited by the GM at 20:40, Sat 18 June 2005.

Asher offers Vil a rare smile and a nod as way of acknowledging the ease with which the sorcerer handled the elves. Then he turns and gives his horse a pat and begins to lead him towards the draw and the rest of the party; leaving Garryn to question the young illusionist.

OOC: Nice roll Jas, I'd much rather have you "bail my ass out" than that gloating half beast brother of yours ;)
This message was last edited by the player at 21:52, Sat 18 June 2005.

Perrato tends immediately to Aidrin, checking him over for wounds and any restraints that the elves may have placed on him.

"Farewell, Hau'dn, I hope you find what you are seeking," Garryn says as the ranger departs. Garryn turns to the newcomer, "It would seem that you are lucky to have survived your company. You are welcome to travel with us until we reach civilized lands, but I must ask, was the scarred elf correct when he said you came from the caravan? Any information you have about the missining caravan would be greatly appreciated."

OOC: I may not be able to post again until Tuesday, so jump in if it will speed the game.

Aidrin nods his thanks to the cleric, "I am unharmed, and noh the worse for wear I believe."

Turning to the company he adds, "But saeth du I'm glad we came across you. The elves ohv this land are noh the most compassionate saddle-mates." Aidrins wry grin turns into a disturbed frown, "I would consider myself greatly in your debt if you would let me in your company; because as for those in my caravan, I fear they are all but destroyed. The elves and I were ohn our way there when we came across your horses."

"I believe I can lead you there if you are have some interest in the matter", Aidrin nods his head towards the north-east with a questioning look.

Something the scroll-learner said strikes Ashers ear; he turns his mount to ask, "Did your wagon-master go by the name of Arkexis? If so, I believe we would be interested in hearing more of your plight."
This message was last edited by the player at 04:44, Mon 20 June 2005.

PM
This message was last edited by the player at 14:34, Mon 20 June 2005.

PMs

Aidrin nods at the monk, That's th' the man, alright. We set out from Deuxchay... a few... days ago." Rubbing the back of his head, he continues, "We were set upon by night by ogre-kind and those fluent in the magic arts. I made it away but have seen nary a soul from the entire company."

"I've seen you. In Duexchay. Something to do with the caravan trades." Asher looks the man over trying to place exactly where he had seen him before. "How did you come to travel with Arkexis?"

Though somewhat gladdened and relieved that his healing art is not required, Perrato begins to listen more intently to the newcomer's account of the caravan incident. "¡De verdad! Ogre-kind? And these practitioners of magic, señor, what do you recall of them?" he asks of Aidrin.

"I've served as wizardly consultant on more than one caravan out of Duexchay, perhaps we met there once. As for Arkexis, he offered a good sum for magical services and I was looking for passage across The Wilds."

An exasperate look comes across the wizards face, "But clanna na cú I cannae remember much from that night. If we go to the encampment, I can collect whatever belongings the brigands haven't carried off and perhaps tell you more."

Aidrin takes another look over the company, "By the by, what are you doing here off the safer paths, unhorsed?"

Hearing Aidrin's comments upon returning from briefing Totmacher and Caylin, Villhalas adds with interest - "Wizardly Consultant?? - Please -- Do Go On "

V

OOC:  I say we get packing - and make for Aidrin's encampment..

PM

Totmacher notices that the head count is the same but the face is different.

"Vil, what reward do we get for saving this human?  Were you able negotiate a trade for the other human?  What else were you able to get from the Elves to alleviate this new handicap?  At first pass Totmacher sees this as a wash."
This message was last edited by the player at 04:00, Wed 22 June 2005.

"Reward??  Well - apparently, we may be adding some additional magical prowess to the Party.  I'm not sure."  At this, Vil offers a wry smile in Asher's direction.  "Aidrin - if you would be so kind..  Elaborate a bit on your background and.. skills as it were."

V

OOC Translation:  Brian, could you please post your character sheet in an OOC thread for us?  Party MO to date has been a 'bare all' approach w/each others' character sheets..

At this Asher sighs, shakes his head slightly, and exits the conversation.

 "Garryn, take my mount. I am accoustomed to walking and will not have a problem keeping up. Besides, my sandals are more dependable when under attack."

OOC: Kev, correct me if I am reading this incorrectly; I believe that both Tot and Asher can keep pace and duration with a light horse bearing a rider (32 miles overland per day).

Brian, if you have not checked out the rest of the parties Character sheets, and would like to, they are in the OOC threads from 13 to 16.
This message was last edited by the player at 19:27, Wed 22 June 2005.

Totmacher catches the tail end of Asher's comments regarding the availability of his horse.

"Let the Rogue walk, he needs the exercise and needs to keep his senses sharp."  With that Tot pops his neck and back and promptly perches himself upon Asher's horse.

Perrato walks over to his horse, Eco, pets his muzzle, and offers some comforting words, "¿Te asusaste un poquito, amigo? De todos modos pareces sano, ¿no? Vayamos." The priest walks his mount over to where Caylin's pony is standing, gathers his gear from the overburdened animal, and places the tack and harness back on his own horse. After strapping on the saddlebags, Perrato smiles and says, "¿Estámos todos listos? I, for one, am eager to return to our travels. Let us discover how Señor Aidrin's friends have fared."

Aidrin is led through the tall grass and into the little draw that shelters the rest of the party members.  The Phanarian mage is introduced to Totmacher, a hulking half-orc barbarian, to Caylin, a halfling archer also originally hailing from the regions of Phanar, and to Perrato, a Palonish priest from the sunny sea shores of southwestern Arret.  The half-orc is dismissive, and the halfling merely nods neutrally.  Perrato evinces some concern over the fate of Aidrin's companions, and questions the wizard concerning those who attacked the caravan.

Villhalas requests that Aidrin inform the party as to his skills and background.  The wizard does so, somewhat guardedly, sketching out a brief depiction of his employment and a cursory review of his skills.  Apparently, Aidrin has spent some time in Sargod, but has recently been East and associated himself with the caravan trade.

Aidrin talks while the party prepares to move, "Some traveling groups hire wizards toh perform magic-related tasks, or ahs an asset when lore or wisdom in general is needed. Think of it as keeping a travelling mage-shop ohn retainer."

"No't the most glamorous work, but it pays well, and keeps you moving; and I'd rather work for those that need it than in any city I have seen" the wizard says as he shrugs slightly.
This message was last edited by the player at 15:11, Fri 24 June 2005.

Ashers head cocks involuntarily as he ponders the bewildering workings of Capitalism. Unable to concieve of the value of magework, he shrugs and focuses on the matters at hand.

"Clearly the Great Ki has willed you here to us, mage. We are, in fact, looking for the last known place of the missing Caravan. Are we ready to depart?" Next he turns to the half-beast atop his mount. Inspired by Villhalas' approach with the elves, Asher makes an akward attempt at diplomacy, "Totmacher, you seem to be one of the only members of this group who could keep pace with these mounts for an entire day. Perhaps Garryn would be a better choice to ride."

11:26, Today: Asher Willbourne rolled 10 using 1d20+1. Get off my horse half beast.
This message was last edited by the player at 16:31, Fri 24 June 2005.

Totmacher looks at the Monk and smirks, "Totmacher is in the mood for comedy.  Why don't you ride your own horse, Monk?  This beast is too frail and malnourished to support Totmacher's mammoth frame.  A most impressive selection," rolling his eyes as he speaks, "perhaps this beast too follows the 'Great Ki' like it's master." gestering with his hands from folded position as he humors the party.

Totmacher then hops down from the horse keeping eye contact with Asher.

"Totmacher's stomach is making more noise than a ranger-bard screaming in mortal pain as he is being hacked to pieces by a Great Axe.  How about some of that Horse meat, Monk?"

"Lets get moving, Tot you can eat as you stumble along, can't you?" Garryn asks as he fastens his gear onto Asher's horse. Instead of riding it himself he adds the saddles from fallen horses to its load in the faint hope that they will acquire new mounts.

"I'm with the Rogue..   Aidrin - Why don't you show us where this encampment of yours was..."

V

Initial introductions are made, and Aidrin studies his new-found companions.  The half-elf, the one who had defused the tense situation with the elves, appeared to act as a de facto leader.  Incredibly to the young mage, the hulking half-orc barbarian deferred to the slight half-elf--more, the barbarian seemed to hang upon the smaller man's words.  The barbarian was dismissive and openly hostile to the others, so this odd gentleness and attention seemed even more jarring.  Aidrin considered...perhaps the half-orc was a servant of the other?  More likely they were lovers...Aidrin nodded, satisfied at his conclusion.  Stranger matches had been seen--the young wizard could recall rumors of a bizarre relationship between an urbane harpy and a somewhat deranged Drow priestess that had circulated in Rimsedge prior to the wars.

The monk, Asher, was very much the product of the mountain monastaries of Narvil--quiet, thoughtful, and competent.  No love appeared to be lost between the man and the half-orc, however.  Such hostility could only end in bloodshed, thought the wizard.

The human rogue...Garryn, was his name?...seemed reticent, almost brooding.  He and the halfling archer seemed to be friends, however, as the two would talk together quietly.  The Palonish cleric of Vagrani also seemed typical of his sect--compassionate, friendly, travel-canny, and skilled in the healing arts.

The party prepares to depart the little, brush-grown draw in which they had gathered.  After some initial tension, the situation resolves itself with respect to the horses.  Totmacher and Asher are on foot, and Aidrin swings into the saddle of Villhalas' spare mount.  Garryn lashes the two extra saddles and tack on the remaining riderless horse and eschews mounting the animal, figuring that even on foot he can keep up with Caylin's pony in an afternoon's travel.

Following his raven's lead, Aidrin begins to lead the party along the margin of the Blackthorn Hills, keeping to the more level portions near the long plains of the Central Wilds.  The Hills, crowned with thick brakes of blackthorne and to the left of the party, are awash in the hot afternoon sunshine.  Bright splashes of color, in the form of flowering foxglove, fireweed, aster, and lupine, abound across the landscape.  Large, multi-colored butterflies flitter from flower to flower, competing with the ubiquitous honey bees, bee-flies, and other pollen-gathering insects for space on the flowers--chased away when speedy, nectar-hungry hummingbirds come to visit.  Swallows dart through the sky, snatching insects on the wing, and meadowlarks call to one another across the grasslands.  Cicadas add a dull, throbbing backbeat to the afternoon, and the air fairly thrums with the combined sound of bird and insect life.  A herd of plains buffalo, distant, watch as the party makes its way along the Hills' margin, and lone pronghorn antelope, startled from their browsing, spring away in leaping silence.  The hot sunshine pours down, drowning the day in sleepy, liquid gold.

The miles pass.  Eventually, the party regains the beaten dirt path of the caravan route, as it begins to angle away from the Hills into the plains.  The westering sun has been floating lower and lower into the sky, and the long shadows of the snow-clad peaks of the Turgrad Mountains, and the nearer foothills of the Blackthorns, are stretching their cool fingers across the plains.  The day is coming to a close, and Dusk is beginning her long summer sojourn before She gives way to Night.  Perrato murmurs a string of melodic-sounding prayers, as this time of the daily cycle is holy to his order.  The smell of grass, warmed earth, and growing things is palpable on the air...along with the briefest whiff of putrefaction.  High in the air, some miles away, a handful of turkey vultures circle, and the faint barking laugh of a hyena is heard...

Seeing the tell-tale signs of death in the distance, Villhalas offers a grim nod to his traveling companions.

"Aidrin, can you communicate with your Raven?  If so, It may not be a bad idea to send these two off ahead - get a glimpse of what we have in store..."

Adding with a brief snort - Vil quips "Still Hungry Totmacher?? "

V

"We had better speed our pace if we care to see by daylight what those vultures obviously see."
This message was last edited by the player at 02:19, Sun 26 June 2005.

"Or smell," Garryn adds to Ashers suggestion."If we can make it on time then I say lets press on, but I'd hate to get there just in time to for sunset," he adds grimly.

"If I might, I'd press a word of caution," Aidrin says leaning towards the other party members from his borrowed mount. "Things ca'n be...strange in the time-between-times, when it is neither night nor day. We would be wise to keep our wits about us."

"But we will see how far we have left to travel yet," Aidrin says squinting into the sky, and impresses a sense of urgency in finding the "loud sleep-stop" to his raven.

OOC: Sorry fellows, I was out camping all weekend (I probably should have mentioned that before-hand).
This message was last edited by the player at 14:21, Mon 27 June 2005.

Perrato concurs with the need for haste. "Whatever danger is responsible for the death of this unknown creature will not be averted by us by stopping short of the corpse's location. It may very well be seeking out new victims. I agree we should proceed at our best rate."