The companions set about preparations for their journey inland, they were able to secure posts as guards with a merchant due for Rosmuillean through the landlady at the Crowned Knight.

They were rather surprised to see Grwn there when they made enquiries, the country witch had stealthily slipped from their company and apparently found a cosy home at the inn keeping the young woman who ran it warm at night. He waved them off at the offer of accompanying them apparently happy with his cosy roost.

Rabbie also begged off accompanying them as he wanted to travel south and visit relatives on the border of Ereworn.

The merchants name was Artair Buids and he seemed pleased to have such a number of solid men accompanying him.

He looked over Trivel, Dann and Brenar with obvious glee and nodded to Coln and Kores as they approached.

" Welcome! Now, I'll be paying 5 florins a day to each of you. And you'll get an extra 10 if we run into trouble on the way."

As they talked another man approached them, with a ruddy face that only a mother could love Artair waved to him vigorously.

" This is Tobias, he'll be accompanying us as well. We've done the trip before us two."

In reply to GM (msg # 1):

"What was it like in the past?  Have you run into any issues?"
This message was last edited by the GM at 06:05, Tue 23 Feb 2016.

Tobias is almost the definition of unimpressive: a little short, a little stocky, nose flattened and face scarred, his hair and beard are grey and his skin weathered. He looks too well-kept to have slept in a hedge the previous night, but he's clearly spent a significant time sleeping under them at some point. He is struggling under the weight of his packs, which he gladly dumps to the floor, shrugging off a crossbow, a bow, and a quiver which have been slung awkwardly over his shoulders.

Looking up from his packs, he removes a pipe from between his teeth and offers a broad grin which shows off his stained and uneven teeth, including a badly fitted gold tooth. Despite all this, there is a lively twinkle in his eye, and his voice is warm as he offers his hand to each of the group in turn. "Well met, Artair! Well met, Gentlemen! Tobias Garrick at your service. You look like just the hearty fellows to keep the Reivers at bay..."
This message was last edited by the player at 12:24, Mon 22 Feb 2016.

" Fairly sedate really...last time we saw Reivers was two years ago.  There hasn't been much activity lately."

Dann takes Tobias's hand with a smirk. "Careful that the reivers are not already here..."

"A reiver, eh?" Tobias grins, but his eyes dart quickly across Dann's weapons. "All the better to keep others away."

In reply to Tobias Garrick (msg # 6):

Kores mutters to himself almost inaudibly...

"...Things people do for their love of gold..."
This message was last edited by the GM at 06:05, Tue 23 Feb 2016.

In reply to Kores Varias (msg # 7):

Colm approached and clasped hands with the merchant and his...associate.

" Are we all set to go, I've little in the way of trade goods myself but I'll do my best to keep your wares safe from man or beast on the road."

Trivel looks at the man with the many bags impassively.
"What do you use crossbows for, I'd never gather", he mutters. "Nor why is nobody haggling. Those Northerners..."

Then he shakes his head and adds in his normal voice.
"Very well. I'll accept the price the others agree on, and keep you and your wares safe in return for your silver".

In reply to Trivel (msg # 9):

The merchant climbs aboard his cart, " Well, shall we off then?"

He lays the whip across the shoulders of the two great oxen and the cart begins to move.

The first fifteen miles pass uneventfully as the Shadowspin rolled lazily along on their right and farmers fields and homes passed on the left.

The companions passed a number of travellers on the road, mostly farmers bringing their wares to the city in barrows or on goat carts.

Five hours along the road a halt was called and the oxen unharnessed and watered at the river.

" Theres an inn another five miles along the way or we could push through the dark and arrive in the early hours of tommorow morning....up to you, I'm in no real rush."

OOC:  Feel free to insert travelling conversations, queries, purchases from farmers etc.

Tobias soon strikes up conversation.

"You're a varied bunch." He observes, cheerfully. "And you look like you've seen a bit of action. What brings you up to Glissom? Er, or down as the case may be? For myself, I'm Ereworn born, but the old place is... hmm... unfriendly. Glissom suits me better. Sea air, varied company. Odd jobs. A chance to see the country..." He waves his pipe at the trees around them. "People of no fixed trade can go a long way here."

"That would be the reason why I am here as well." answers Dann laconically to Tobias. Turning to the merchant, he adds: "If nobody is in a rush, then let's stop at the inn."

As always, Trivel thinks before answering.
"The road", he explains laconically. Then he decides to explain.
Who knows whether the Westerners would understand the notion otherwise? It is familiar to every boy in the Khaganates, but he has noticed quite a bit such things are ignored here.
"I had to leave. So I followed my shadow, and it lead me West, here. I met different people. When they decided they need a new job, I joined as well. And here I am."
He thinks for a bit more and shrugs.
"Inn sounds good to me as well. We should keep our eyes open."
So at least we would know who's going to try and rob us, he adds mentally, and decides not to share bread with any of the patrons of the inn. It's bad luck to kill a man you've shared bread with.
This message was last edited by the player at 12:42, Tue 01 Mar 2016.

In reply to Trivel (msg # 13):

Artair nodded, " The inn it is. I'm not one for out of doors myself."

" Rob us? No, I don't thing so. I've stayed at Cearins place before, he's an odd sort but living alone without regular friends can do that to a man I've heard."

The cart continued along the road, the wind was a bit chill today and there was a lot of dead wood and flotsam in the Shadowspin.

Almost another three miles down the way, Trivel, Tobias and Dann spotted something unusual amongst the dead branches and other things being swept down river.... it seemed to be a cask of some type.

Tobias stares hard into the flotsam for a moment, then raises a hand. "Hold, Artair!" He makes his way to the bank, and peers closer at the twisted mass. "Some kind of cask, I reckon." He shrugs his packs to the ground and rifles through to find a length of rope, which he ties hurriedly round his waist, then fixes the other end round an arrow.

"I don't like to damage it, but I don't fancy a dip, either..."

OOC:

08:37, Today: Tobias Garrick rolled 11 using 1d20.  Getting an arrow into the barrel.

Touch and go - it depends on the range modifiers and how fast it's moving...

This message was last edited by the player at 08:39, Fri 04 Mar 2016.

Dann goes down as well and looks left and right, ready to react if something unexpected happens. "Hurry friend. I don't like the setup."

In reply to Dann of Clan Valin (msg # 16):

Kores heads further downstream next to the river, looking for branches that he can pick up and hopefully use to reach for the barrel...

He is not inclined to get wet in this weather just for an empty, floating barrel of air....

Trivel looks impassively. As long as nobody gets wet - which he would rate as suicide in this weather - he's fine with letting the thing float away.
It could be wreckage with fine treasure, but what are the odds?

Tobias fires and against the odds his arrow hits the cask, despite being badly thrown off by the addition of the rope to its flight, Tobias grabs hold of the rope and begins to pull on it carefully.

Danns keen eyes seen Tobias foot slip and he also grabs hold of the rope to steady Tobias and haul on it.

As it gets closer to shore Kores is able to guide it up onto the bank with a piece of driftwood.

Retrieving the arrow there is a rich peaty aroma rising from the arrowhead that had pierced the cask.

OOC: not sure to understand if only the arrow was retrieved, or the cask as well.

OOC: Cask as well.

In reply to GM (msg # 21):

Kores, with a dark, negative expression looks on.

"Well, doesn't anyone want to find out what it holds?"


Standing back, in case it explodes...  3m away...

"Let's just hope that's the smell of fine liquor and not gunpowder." Tobias cheerfully examines the tip of the arrow, then runs his finger along it, to see what comes off. "Though the latter might have its uses." He sniffs at the substance gingerly, then licks the tip of his finger, grimacing slightly at the taste.

Dann is as wary as Kores, not wanting to come too close to the cask.

A smile comes to Tobias' lips, the clear liquid within is whiskey....very good whiskey....

In reply to GM (msg # 25):

"Fine liquor, it seems." Tobias laughs - at least partly in relief. "Why the devil is a cask of whisky floating the Shadowspan?"

He turns his gaze again to the flotsam, to see if there are any other signs of unusual debris - or what produced them...

In reply to Tobias Garrick (msg # 26):

"Maybe the last owner didn't like whiskey."

In reply to Kores Varias (msg # 27):

Tobias clamps his pipe back between his teeth, and - satisfied that they are no longer in danger of a conflagration - begins trying to light with his flint as he eyes the river. "In that case," He grins, "we are truly dealing with a fiendish and alien mind..."
This message had punctuation tweaked by the player at 12:14, Thu 10 Mar 2016.

In reply to Tobias Garrick (msg # 28):

"....don't like whiskey myself..."

Dann is relived, but just a little. "Expect to see a burnt house or a sunkun ship up the river. I know all too well how this kind of property ends up drifting in the water..." Turning to his mates, he adds: "And we should probably be prepared to deal with those who attacked."

In reply to Dann of Clan Valin (msg # 30):

Artair smiled, " Such as may be, but theres nought about now."

" Lets move on, we can sell the flask or drink it, up to you lads."

He gees the oxen along again after harnessing them, " Only a few more miles to go and we'll be out of the chill."

Seeing no sign of wrecks or pillaging the companions continue along until they come to a small trail, which has seen regular use, leading off into the interior. It curls away from the river and over a rise towards a small gully in the hills.

" The inns down this way, unless you've changed your mind."

"I know I haven't." says Dann.

In reply to Dann of Clan Valin (msg # 32):

"Hide the barrel.  They might try to reclaim it."

"The inn would still be welcome. Though if that cask is theirs, we may find the inn a smoking wreck, from the sounds of things..." Tobias muses.

Adair laughed, " If it was we'd see the smoke by now."

" Come on..."

"I suggest we should just be grateful", Trivel says, breaking his silence. "We got fine drink for free. If everybody is lucky, it has just dropped off a barge in the night. And if someone has been unlucky, well, it wasn't us-which we should be grateful about".
He looks at the road leading to the inn.
"I'd put a string on my bow, though, at least until we reach said teahouse. And I'd suggest we chat less, and look more for ambushes".

Tobias nods thoughtfully at Trivel's observation. "Right enough." He unslings his crossbow and carefully begins to load it before they move out.

In reply to Tobias Garrick (msg # 37):

You soon arrive at a low building, with stone walls and a thatched roof. An inn sign creaks in the wind, and a beam of light falls from the front door onto the wooden verandah that completely surrounds the main building. In the beam of light stands an old man, his body stooped and his hand up to his eyes, watching you approach.

"Hello there old man! Is your inn open for outsiders?" asks Dann, all the while looking around for a possible ambush.

"And for honest people like us, as well", Trivel adds, maybe showing his own sense of humor. Or maybe he just disapproved of the "outsiders" moniker.

In reply to Trivel (msg # 40):

The innkeeper comes forward, " Aye, all are welcome."

He took the yoke in hand and nodded to Adair, " I'll stall yer beasts and put away your cart under cover."

Adair thanks him and leads the rest of you inside.

There is a vat of stew bubbling at the centre of the large
common room you have entered. Next to it stand pitchers
full of ale.

After a few minutes the old man re-enters and introduces himself
with a bow as Cearin the Innkeeper. He negotiates a fee with you of one florin for food, and two florins for a room. There are four bedrooms upstairs, and as it happens, all of them are unoccupied tonight. He does not seem happy at having foreigners under his roof, but you get the impression that with the inn empty, any trade is good trade right now.

In reply to GM (msg # 41):

ok, deduct 3 florins and let me know if I need to throw in a copper or three for more candles.  Kores will be up and doesn't really have night vision.  I think he's got a book somewhere in his luggage...

and if he doesn't he'll pick up whatever he can, a bible or something...

"Well met, Cearin." Tobias grins, shaking the innkeeper's hand warmly. "A room, food and a stoup of ale is always welcome after a day on the road."

He begins to lug his packs off the cart, smiling apologetically to the others. "It's not that I'm distrustful. I just like to keep my packs where I can keep an eye on them."

With a flourish, he discharges his crossbow into the ground, picks up the quarrel, and tucks it into his belt. "We have been edgy on the road." He explains to Cearin. "When the roads are this quiet, the mind turns to brigands, or worse. What news from you? Many visitors passing this way?"

OOC: Tobias will stump up the 3 florins, plus whatever the cost of ale is (unless it's included with the food!).

I assume it's 2 florins per head, rather than per room, since we'll have to double up?

Dann pays the florins, gets seated and starts to eat while listening to what the inn keeper has to say. "Are you keeping this inn alone?" he will ask at some point.

Giving him 4 florin. "Be kind with the ale my good man." Brenar stated. "And I'll recommand thisd place to all I met." He added.

Trivel just hands over his 3 florins. He has spoken enough already as it was.
Instead, he releases without much flourish his bowstring, and puts the bow away. But he's going to put his own belongings where he could keep an eye on them, too.
Or even better, where Tobias could keep an eye on them.
"Do you mind me putting my stuff on your belongings?", he asks the man. "This way, we could both keep an eye".

His bags deposited, Tobias fumbles with his pipe in a bid to light it. "Not at all!" He waves towards the pile. "Four eyes are better than two..."

Trivel puts his stuff on the pile, and sits with his back to a wall to watch the room.

In reply to Trivel (msg # 48):

Kores is happy to be facing a wall.  In fact he's happy to be sitting in a dark corner in the room by himself with his back to everyone.  And with the company of a wall.

In reply to Kores Varias (msg # 49):

Tobias watches Kores take his seat. "Sociable fellow, that one." He chuckles. "A scholar, eh?"

The way he stresses the word suggests he alluding to something, without wanting to force and open discussion.

"Yes", Trivel confirms. "I believe that's the word they use around here for educated people. He certainly is one."

In reply to Trivel (msg # 51):

OOC: 2 florins/head and ale is included with the food cost.
" Aye, all alone, by meself.  Well, since Missus passed.", Cearwin nodded before meandering off out of sight towards the kitchen.

Brenar and Dann ate and drank, while Trivel and Tobias chatted, Kores read a 'Treatise on Northern Herbs' that had apparently been left behind by a former traveller and Adair retired early to his room.
This message was last edited by the GM at 02:01, Tue 22 Mar 2016.

Dann shrugs while eating. After a while he whispers to the others: "Look, I don't trust this guy, whether I am right or wrong. We should keep a watch tonight. Who takes first turn?"

"The fellow's harmless enough. He's never done me harm." Tobias shrugs."But if it'll set your mind at rest, I don't mind taking first watch."

"I'll keep you company in the first watch", Trivel nods. "Maybe he's harmless...but all wolves are harmless to a fast horse, except for the one wolf that manages to break his leg".
Hunches were something his people trusted unconditionally.

"Right. I will take the second watch then." states simply Dann before finishing his meal silently.
This message was last edited by the player at 15:15, Thu 24 Mar 2016.

In reply to Dann of Clan Valin (msg # 56):

Kores manages to overhear.  Without any expression he closes his book and walks off to his room.  Seems theres a lot of people taking first watch.

Wonder whos in which room?

In reply to Kores Varias (msg # 57):

Tobias took first watch, but all was quiet and he soon retired to the room he shared with Trivel.

Dann was woken and took second watch in the common room, he was suprised when the elderly inn keeper emerged from the darkened kitchen, which he had taken to be unoccupied, in the early hours.

" Can't sleep?  Can I fix you something?"

Dann hesitates then answers: "That's right, I cannot sleep. But I am not sure you can do anything about it."

" You might be very suprised indeed about that.", chuckled the old man in what Dann assumed must be a private joke of some kind.

" Good Night, don't let the bed-bugs bite!  Not that there are any such thing here, very clean is my inn."

The strange old man returned to the dark kitchen and soon all was quiet again.

Dann shrugs silently and waits for what happens next while trying not to fall asleep.

Trivel, who has not uttered a word on purpose, preferring to observe, joins him in his attempts.
He's never had issues with staying awake, but the old man sounded strangely persuaded in his words...
He smells his beer. Does it smell differently from what it normally does?

Dann and Trivel sat, the night went on...

Trivel inspected his ale with bleary eyes and practiced tongue but truth to be told he wasn't sure about the taste of any of the beverages on these far-flung shores.

The rest of their watch went without incident...as did the one that followed.

All awoke refreshed the next morning.  The innkeeper was nowhere to be seen but young, rather nervous looking fellow was making himself busy preparing their cart for departure.

As soon as Dann finds the occasion, he will say to the young fellow: "Hello there! Nice to meet you. Is everything alright?"

" Oh, Aye! Right as rain.  Theres bread and cheese inside and small beer, you'll be off soon?"

"Soon enough. I haven't seen the innkeeper this morning, do you know where he is?" replies the borderer.

Tobias emerges from the inn, having lugged his various packs down the stairs, and stands in the doorway, trying to light his pipe. Noting the young man, he grunts to himself: "I thought the old fellow kept this place alone."

He scans the ground, looking for tell-tale tracks of other visits or departures, then wanders back into the inn, and settles himself down to breakfast.

" He does...well mostly.  He has business in the hills today..", the lad waved his hand vaguely towards the surrounding hills. " He left before sunrise..said I was to care for your needs."

In reply to GM (msg # 68):

Kores gets up.  Eyes bloodshot despite a reasonable nights sleep.  When he snaps out of his passive expression he takes on his usual scowl and grimacing in response to anybody and everything...

Tobias settles down to breakfast, cheerfully puffing away at his pipe. "No sign of Adair? If he's not down by the time I've finished eating, I'll go up and put the boot in myself."

"After eating his breakfast", Trivel adds. "That's how they taught us to get up early when I was a boy".
It is hard to tell whether he's joking. He's looking at his food while eating, and talking in an emotionless voice.
This message was last edited by the player at 20:59, Fri 15 Apr 2016.

Adair finally appeared looking rather haggard and red eyed, " Well....you lot appear to have slept well at least....", he muttered begrudgingly. " I tossed and turned all blasted night...wheres that small beer?"

Glancing outside he noticed the lad, " Cearwins off is he? Probably knew he gave me the bad bed.", he chuckled.

"Business in the hills, apparently." Tobias chuckles round his pipe, passing a flagon of the weak ale to Adair. "Though what business he could have out there is anyone's guess. I'm for saddling up and moving on. Don't want to land our noses where they're not wanted."

"I would suspect it has something to do with widows", Trivel says nochanlantly.
He also makes a mental point to watch for brigands. It is not entirely impossible the innkeeper might be out to warn the brigands that a trader is approaching.

Adair chuckled and went to assist the lad with hooking the oxen into their yoke.

" We'll be off in a bit if all you good folk have finished your ablutions and face-stuffing."

.....................

Some time later they were back on the trade road and on the way to Rosmuileann, the Shadowspin was calmer today and there were folk working in the fields to the east of the road, they looked up to watch the companions pass by but little else.

As they passed a thick copse on the left Trivel, Tobias and Dann spotted a small group of men sitting under the trees watching them approach.

OOC: Anything you want to say/do on the journey just post and we'll assume it happened where the dotted line is. :)

"I think we shouldn't lower our guards", Trivel says as soon as they are on the road. "The inn didn't seem to have many guests, so it's not making much money. Then the owner disappears, leaving a newbie."
He shrugs.
"He's either visiting a local widow, or planing to make our wives into such", Trivel concludes.

Tobias nods, thoughtfully. "Forewarned is forearmed, eh? The question is, do we show our teeth to ward off potential attackers - or look to lure them in?"

He carefully loads his crossbow with a single bolt, places his bow and quiver handy on the cart, and checks knife and sword are handy.

........

As they see the men, Tobias quickly eyes the copse and scans the horizon nearby. Perhaps a little too quickly...




16:28, Today: Tobias Garrick rolled 18 using 1d20.  Perception - looking for anyone lurking in the copse..

"Teeth", Trivel answers. "They know we have them. Let them know we're not asleep and ready to use them".
What need was there to explain that the innkeeper had had the whole evening to observe them?

...


The man also looks around, mirroring Tobias' motion.

23:50, Today: Trivel rolled 5 using 1d20 ((5)).
This message was last edited by the player at 20:51, Mon 25 Apr 2016.

In reply to Trivel (msg # 78):

Kores pays little attention to them.  Sometimes you see his dark facial expression changes as he glares and scowls and frowns.  He also curses to himself, inaudibly but visibly.

Both Tobias and Trivel scan the copse but Tobias is unable to penetrate the heavy foliage.

Trivel, his eyes honed from years of living off the land notes at least 5 or 6 more shapes hidden in the trees.

As the companions draw closer one of the lounging men gets to his feet, he is dressed in a strange mix of town clothes with a plaid wrapped about and over it like a gathered cloak.

" Good Morn! How are you today?"

Before they draw into talking distance, Trivel slows down and whispers behind Tobias.
"Five or six in the copse. Get ready..."
He plans to let the others pass him by and deliver the same message. He almost stops, takes his bow in hand, and starts looking at the horn in the centre, as if he'd noticed a problem.
Hopefully this presents a good, obvious reason to slow down, and to mutter under his breath, he thinks. Otherwise, the hostilities might be unavoidable.

Colm sighed and nodded ever so slightly as he passed Trivel, ready to see what would happen...

Tobias inclines his head, to show that he has heard, and positions himself alongside the cart to keep his bow and arrows in easy reach. The loaded crossbow he keeps in his hands.

He gives a cheery wave, levels his crossbow at the speaker's head, and speaks round his pipe.

"Well enough, and your men state where they're hiding. It'd be a shame to spill blood on this fine morn."

" Hiding? Now theres a few lads that are a wee bit shy, but thats no reason to point that there contraption at me noggin."

" You folks have a good day at the markets....maybe's we'll see you tommorow perchance?", he grinned.
This message was last edited by the GM at 07:02, Mon 02 May 2016.

Dann is curious to know what market the man is talking about, even though he does not feel inclined to talk right now.

In reply to GM (msg # 84):

"Shy, you say? My apologies. We didn't mean to distress them, but we can't help being an ugly crew." Tobias voice is cheery as ever, but behind his pipe his smile has developed into an unpleasant leer. He doesn't lower the crossbow."Still, a few shy lads hide in the bushes, and it's going to make a careful traveller on a road like this nervous. Nervous enough that he might get to thinking 'As soon as my back's turned, I might have a knife or an arrow in it', and maybe 'I'd sooner we had it out here and now'."

He shrugs. "I mean, you're either bandits and a fight's coming anyway, or you're easy pickings. You've got the edge on numbers, but I reckon we could thin your crew badly before you took us down. And for what? It'd be a shame to sell your lives so cheap. Now, it's a beautiful day, and I'd rather not spoil it with bloodshed, so if your shy lads come out where we can see them, we'll ride on, and everyone's happy."

He looks vaguely amused, indifferent to the prospect of bloodshed, even his own. His finger is taut on the trigger: insurance against an unexpected arrow from the copse.

In reply to Tobias Garrick (msg # 86):

Kores scowls at the conversation and proceeds to take cover in case more missiles fly from wherever....

In reply to Kores Varias (msg # 87):

The man grinned at Tobias, " Nah, I reckon we'll all go have a kip in the trees. Your welcome to come in after us if you want....but as you say tis a beautiful day...."

" You fellas have a good one, hope Rosmuillean treats you well."

He stood and signalled to the others to move away from the road.

As he rose Dann noted he was wearing the plaid of Clan Darrich, but it was not fastened correctly and it was paired with a pair of heavy leather breeches....if he was truly of Darrich then Dann would be surprised indeed.

Trivel looks at Dann for a signal. His bow has shifted in his hand to a position where he can easily draw and shoot. No point in pretending further that they're peaceful strangers, not after the words of the other warrior.
Still, he doesn't want to shoot at the guys in the woods. Once spotted, they are sitting ducks - they can't move unless they want to be noticed, and not moving makes them...well, immobile targets.
But it was a fine day indeed. And he had worked on those arrows, no need wasting them!

Dann narrows his eyes. "That's a fine plaid that you have here. Where did you get it?" he asks to the man with a pleasant enough voice.

Tobias gives a cheery wave, but keeps the crossbow trained on the retreating figure. "Good e-" He breaks off on hearing Dann speak.

The mans eyes flicked to Dann and his grin widened, " Well....he weren't needing it no more...and I got this nice looking scar into the bargain.  Yer not kin of his are ye?".

He peered at Danns plaid but seemed unable to decide anything about it from his observation.

Dann decides not to answer the question. "... and is it the kind of 'bargain' you make with every stranger you meet?" asks the borderer, without returning the smile.

" Now, now. No need to be making accusations."

" He was the one raiding my holding...."

Dann keeps quiet, ready for anything.

A flash of irritation crosses Tobias' features. He has no desire to prolong the encounter, and clearly little concern about whether these are bandits, as long as they aren't attacking him or his. "Good enough. Let's be on our way."

Almost at Tobias'words the last of the men turned and walked into the trees, leaving the road ahead clear.

Adair was sweating slightly, " Quite glad I have you lads along, come to think of it...."

He urged the oxen forward and the companions kept careful watch as they passed the copse but saw no sign of the men, even as they watched behind until the cart was several miles down the way.

Ahead at the crest of a low hillnear the river they could see quite a number of buildings clustered together.

"Rosmuillean, Gentlemen.", Adair said theatrically.

Trivel nods at Adair's words without commenting. He doesn't see the need for much words, either.
He looks at the Rosmuillean place and tries to see whether there's anything that's not normal. It seems so, but after all, those were just normal people on the road, too.
"What did that man's clothes mean?", he asks Dann. "Did he kill someone famous?"

"That's why you're paying us." Tobias' teeth form into a crooked grin as he finally takes a hand from the crossbow to remove his pipe. "Money well spent, I'd say."

Tobias regards Rosmuillean with some interest as it comes into view. "The Silver Stag will be a welcome sight. If nothing else, there won't be any mysterious business in the hills..."



On hearing Trivel's words, Tobias joins the conversation with interest. "Aye, you seemed mighty peeved about that fellow's garb. Was it someone kin to you?"

"That man killed a clansman and took his plaid. Clansmen are not exactly peaceful so he might very well have said the truth when he said he was attacked first. I just didn't like his demeanor." answers simply Dann. He is now more interested by the village coming along the way.

Trivel nods.
"Just make sure to tell them if you see someone from the clan of the deceased. He doesn't have the right to wear their signs, but it's up to them to stop him."

Tobias looks vaguely disappointed - perhaps he had hoped for something more grisly or scandalous. He turns his attention to the village ahead, and the prospect of rest.

In reply to Tobias Garrick (msg # 102):

"See how we were able to resolve this merely by discussion?  Perhaps if he tried that he would have one less scar, and one less plaid.  I suppose, if the Selentine did more talking they wouldn't leave artifacts across Ellesland and the continent."

"Talking can only bring you so far. Especially if the one in front of you is attempting to rip you apart!" grumbles Dann.

"I find people much more open to discussion when you are well-armed." Tobias chuckles, patting his crossbow. "Perhaps I should rename it the Conversation Piece. Of course such discussions are also more prone to getting sidelined..."

The group moved up the road and began the trudge up the slope towards the town proper, around them were well worked fields and sturdy stone and wood homes....either life here was good to people or they needed stronger homes than those closer to Glissom city...or perhaps both.

As the companions reached the gate in the wooden pallisade they noted the four men on duty regarded them with a critical eye.

" Your here to trade? Not the Beast Market, I can see."

" Very well. Oh, its you, Adair!  Head through, you know where everything is."

The buildings within were a strange blend, Dann could see his peoples homes, Tobias and the others a similarity to the newer homes in Glissom City.

Adair pointed out a large elaborate building on the left hand side as they moved through the streets, " The Silver Stag.  You'll be wanting a room there...unless you like fleas."

Dann looks around with curiosity, checking if he recognizes something or someone. Thinking about it twice he is not sure if he wants to recognize something though.

"I'm for the Stag." Tobias grunts. "Might as well get a good room, and ale would be welcome to wash off the dust of the road..."

Trivel nods.
"I don't like fleas."
Then he shuts up and looks around him more, contemplating the foreign city.

In reply to Trivel (msg # 109):

"I don't particularly like or dislike them.  But I don't think the dead will be very accommodating, so I'll have to stay with the living."

In reply to Kores Varias (msg # 110):

Adair put the oxen and cart into the care of a few of the lads hanging around outside the Silver Stag and headed inside.

Off the looks of concern he smiled, " You can trust these lads. Padraig would have their heads if they stole from me."

As Dann looked around at the town he noted there were a goodly number of men and women about with distinctly familiar hair styles, clothing and weapons...though they had all made at least some concessions to 'town dress'conventions he was sure that at least half the folks walking the streets were Reavers.

As they entered the taproom they were greeted by a rowdy shout from the gathered crowd, and a rather shifty looking man with corded arms and a long dark, grey-shot, ponytail smiled at Adair.

" So your back, you shifty son-of-a-bitch!", he faux-snarled.

" Away wi' ya, you sheep-shagging bastard!", chuckled Adair, " My lads will be needing a bunk room to themselves. A good one!"

The crowd within was a rough mix of farmers, tradesmen and....well...folks who looked a lot like Dann...mostly men but there were quite a few women scattered about as well.

" Ales included in the cost of the room, anything else you'll need to buy yerself.", Adair noted.

Dann will take a mug of ale, and try to mingle a bit with the people who look like his kin. If anything to try to learn what is happening in the Reaver world these days.

Tobias cheerfully props up the bar, sipping his ale and watching the crowd, to see if anything catches his eye.

In reply to Tobias Garrick (msg # 113):

Kores buys an ale but is reluctant to do more than sip it.  He will be repelled by the noise and smells and shuffle away from any source of it.

Trivel will take off his armour, leave it in the room and come down to drink armed but unarmoured. The weapons are, of course, a part of every man as much as his...head.
He's planning to drink slowly, and listen carefully, until people forget he's there and start talking nearby.

There is quite a lot of gossiping going on and few of the patrons seem to be being overly reticent about sharing their news.

- Clan Gar has solidified their hold over the majority of the other clans....Conn has been called by some of the small folk 'King of the Reivers".
- there is good raiding in the north at the moment with many villages having good late harvests, and an abundance of sheep and cattle.
- The Clan Haddich Broch has fallen...though no clan has claimed the victory...it is said the tower itself was cleaved in two...
- The forest road has become more dangerous of late...a group of hotbloods from Clan Kathach were found piled in a butchered heap without their heads beside the road...the old man telling the story says it serves them right if they left the road.

Depending what he is looking for...quite a bit.

- there is a lot of silver about at the moment.
- there are one or two reiver women, and a couple of men, looking the newcomers over..though whether it is as bedmates or as trophies...or both..it is hard to tell.
- the 'Baron" seems to have lost almost complete control of the town, the majority of these folks are Reivers and many of them are not even disguising their clan allegience.  There were always a lot of 'acquired' goods being sold here but not to this extent.

After a short while Trivel could almost imagine he is back home...or at least in one of the lands to the south and west of his own...except for the barbaric language.

Many of these people seem to be warriors and raiders, rather than the merchants and guards that they are barely pretending to be.

Some of the folk are looking at him sideways, seemingly having never seen someone like him before...but there are no signs of hostility...just a general air of jovial belligerence and curiosity.

An older man comes up and claps Kores on the shoulder heartily, " And whats your called, friend?"

" Yer don'look like a cattle drover or a trader........"

Kores winces, totally unprepared, spilling a lot of his ale.  He pauses to frown and curse inaudibly before resuming his dark expression.  He turns his head slightly without looking at the older man...

"Kores."


"Scholar."

" Scholar. Whats that then?", the man said inquisitively.

In reply to GM (msg # 121):

"I read."

Tobias catches the barman's eye. "There's a lot of money floating around. The town's fortunes are picking up, I see. What's changed?"

Dann's eyes flash when he hears about Conn. He tries to to understand where the so-called 'Reiver King' is active right now. The beheaded corpses story strikes him as well, triggering questions about possible explanations.

Trivel almost sheds a tear. He's not missing his country, not really.
Not all that much.
What he is missing is a society of his peers. Like the people he's got here.
Trivel jumps on a nearby bench - making sure it's free, first - and waves to the innkeeper.
"I buy the next round for everyone!", he announces, and gets back down. He's going to sit where he just stepped.
That should draw some attention. One could only hope it would be positive.

The man recoiled as if Kores had said, " I eat children."

" Can't see the point myself....", he muttered wandering away.

There was a wink and a nod, " Nought much, bit more cattle coming through. Whiskey is floating free in the Shadowspin. Been a bit of traffic on the forest road..."

" Steward has sent another soft-belly to reign things in, which is not going to well for him.", he chuckled softly.

" The country lads are a bit more organised these days, trades picked up because of that...not as much raiding and reiving.  Well....not where anyone cares about anyway.", he winked.

Nudh of Clan Maddich leans in close to Dann, " Conn is away in the mountains, got himself a real keep and all. Lads say it was built in secret but my old gammaw reckons he's found one of the old Fomhóraigh brochs and fixed it up. Don't you laugh lad! Theres truth in them old tales."

Dillaigh of Clan Keer, put a callused hand on Danns knee and squeezed as she leaned in and whispered in his ear, " Them boys butchered on the forest road? I reckon they went into the green....and we know who that belongs to don't we? Aes-sídhe, don't take kindly to tresspassers."

A great cheer goes up and a number of the patrons raise a tankard or horn in his direction,

" Where you hail from?", called out one slightly drunker old man with a missing left arm.

Kores relaxes in his chair.  You can see he seems visibly less tense when left alone...

"Whisky in the Shadowspan?" Tobias chuckles. "I wish I'd known. I'd have stopped to take a drink." He lowers his voice. "And suppose I had an interest in this whisky. Who would I talk to?"

Aes-sídhe? answers Dann back to Dillaigh, raising an eyebrow.

Trivel smiled lightly. Well, it wouldn't do to start with a lie...
"East. Very far East, a few weeks of riding, until you reach the Khanate", he answers honestly, raising his own tankard. Surprisingly, there's ale inside.
This "ale" thing seems to get better when you drink more of it...
"Are you a local? I'm sorry, I'm still learning the local dress", he says, making sure to avoid offending anyone.

Colm awoke from his nap.  He had been tucked up in the cart, under the tarpaulin.  He carefully begins the process of concealing his weapons and money, removing Claidheamh Soluis from his hip, wrapping her in linen cloth and stowing her it in his backpack.  Once finished, Colm had a bulging pack, with only his dagger on display.  Colm did not want to be recognised...

In reply to Colm Cernach (msg # 134):

Colm puts his heavy pack in their room, under a bed or otherwise hidden if possible.  He is wearing his armour with a dagger only.
Colm goes to the bar to get some ale, addressing the shifty looking man with corded arms.
"Master Padraig is it?  I am a Hearth-Father travelling with Master Adair.  Would anyone here like a blessing for the price of a meal?"

Colm will sit close to Dann and listen in.  Do any of these names/clans ring any bells?
12:17, Today: Colm Cernach rolled 2 using 1d20.  INT 16.

OOC - Deducted 3 Florins for Cearin the Innkeep last night.

" Well, you can ask around but this lot are generally more liable to offer up to Babh or Nuada than to the Hearth Mother...though you never know.", Padraig grinned.

Casting an ear out, Colm hears the familiar names of clans, he knows Clan Gar is the most powerful and that seems to have changed little, of the others he knows little more than the names...all their territories lie in the Bracks.

Padraig frowned, " That I don't know....but theres some who'd be very interested in finding out."

She clouted him on the side of the head, " The Good Folk! The ones them old bronze-chests spied bathing in the forest lake and named the whole damned green after."

"Don't you be laughing, you walk the northern road often enough you see some things beneath the trees...."

" East? 'taint nought east but the Bracks...and I suppose Thuland the other side...weeks?", he frowned.

" 'lessen you take a boat....you talking about across the sea? And further?", he said with a screwed up face. " No matter, even if its as far as them bronze-chest came from, I ain't going anytime soon.", he finished with a chuckle.

" Aye, I'm a local....well...not to Rosmuilleann...but a wee ways north. Back as far as the counting goes, my folk been here."

Tobias inclines his head thoughtfully. "Count me among them. Perhaps you could point me to one of them. It seems we have a common interest..."

"Bronze-chests?", Trivel repeats. "Sounds an...interesting name. When did they come?"

Colm is loitering at the bar, near to Dann, and observing all.  He didn't say much, but when he did he could be very knowledgeable.

"The Selentium Empire, my friend.  During the old times, before steel was in common use, the Selentium Army used bronze weapons and armour. Their Legionaires managed to conquered most of the Western Lands."

In reply to Colm Cernach (msg # 143):

Kores notices the conversation turning to a more familiar topic...

"...Once, the centre of civilization, the Selentine empire...  of the western world at least.  Legions of engineers were able to defeat the barbarians in all directions.  North, East, West...  However after conquering Algandy and Ellesland their smiths found rich sources of iron.  Perhaps the Selentine legionary was invincible with his advanced siege weapons and mastery of terrain.  But the Empire was lost through grave flaws at its heart."

"...I suppose they had trouble winning wars if you had no place to call your home.  No heart of civilization to obliterate, no cities to conquer...  Their greatest enemies were elusive and almost intangible..."

"Ah, those ones", Trivel nodded. In fact, his home was east to Selentium, but he decided against explaining. "Yes, at least as far as them."

He nodded at Kores' assessment, too.
"Yes, of course. Why would riders face off against infantry? War is not about who controls the cities, it's about who controls the spaces between them. There's a word for the people that control the city, but not the paths to it: starving!"

In reply to Trivel (msg # 145):

Kores raises an eyebrow.

"Its not about the land.  Its the people that work the land.  Any kingdom is based on mutual collaboration between its leaders extending their protection and the common people who contribute.  Again, perhaps this logic does not extend to...  ...nomads."

"We merely differ in perspectives."

Dann looks at the woman talking to him for some time. After drinking some of his ale, he adds: "have you seen them yourself?"

In reply to Kores Varias (msg # 146):

The old man nodded along with Trivel and Kores' conversation but by the end of it he was once again absorbed in his drinking horn...

" Clan Gar would very much like to know...cos they are usually the ones selling their whiskey here....or should I say, some rustic folk who bear a strong but entirely coincidental appearance to certain headmen in Clan Gar do.", he winked.

" If'n you do find anything, and the Lady knows I've tried....best bring it to them...not to me."

She looked at the floor, " Not seen exactly....but sometimes you catch a flash of movement..or hear sweet voices on the breeze while on the Forest Road."

As the conversation abut the Bronze Chests finishes, Colm gravitates towards Dann and the woman talking about the Sidhe.
"The Sidhe are indeed mysterious and unpredictable.  I would like to see where these boys were found, and the forest road you speak of."

The rather rough looking woman looked up as Colm approached, her eyes moving to the thong about his neck and to the bar where he had stood before.

" Tís the only road, Hearth-Father. Well, the only one you can get a cart down.  Across the Shadowspin and through Siren Woods....and then to the Bracks..."

"I will be travelling that way myself.  There are fewer people who follow the old ways.  Do you know of any who would welcome a blessing?"

Tobias nods, thoughtfully. "Understood. Thank you." He wanders over to join the history lesson that seems to be developing with Trivel and Kores.

Dann raises an eyebrow at Colm. "And will blessings make the butchered boys come back?" he asks, somewhat dismissively.

Colm ignores the Dann...  Turning to the Innkeeper,
"Master Padraig, would you kindly tell me if there is a Herbalist in town, or even an Apothecary?  I do much more than pray for blessings..."

The innkeeper nods and points down the road towards the river, " Theres a woman who runs a stall, she mostly sells fertility charms and the like but she may have something."

Colm heads out and follows the directions and comes to a small stall set up between a bakers and a cartwrights, it has no signage but the pungent smell of herbs greats his nostrils as he approaches.  There is an elderly woman sitting at the counter, her left eye is nothing but a ragged charred hole in her face.

Colm recoils inside but manages to hold himself together, it is an old punishment...for those of his order who succumbed to dark influences and turned to Balor.

She peers at him from a bleary right eye but seems to not recognise him or his status, " Can I help you?"

Within the inn there goes up a general call for a tale to be told, eyes turn eagerly on the newcomers as all other tales have already been told it seems.....

Padraig calls out, " Yes! A tale! Tell us a tale of derring-do!! You are men of action, you must have some!"

In reply to GM (msg # 158):


Kores grins...


....



....




“…Brutal are the denizens of hell.  Have you heard the wild chattering?  Beyond the howling of the northern winds.  These lands that are uninhabited by men, darker forces emerge, hungry for souls, they thrive on the screams of the living.”

“Perhaps you fear ghosts, but ghosts are tame apparitions who lack satisfaction in life and look for answers from beyond the grave.  Even ghosts fear the unearthly fiends that belong in the dark depths.  Those that rend flesh and consume souls...  Perhaps you may have seen those unfortunate individuals who have been touched by these creatures of the night, saw the devastation, heard the tearing of flesh and those…  screams….  They will never be the same...”






....

[5 blank lines suppressed]

....





“Is there a village idiot?  Should make for more interesting conversation than you lot..”

Colm removes his hood and rises to his full height, straightening the Volcanic Rock Amulet at his throat.  He speaks in a direct tone.

"Brigantia's blessings upon you.  I would like some of your best remedies, the ones your don't normally sell to the visitors.  I will pay a good price in silver.  What can you offer me?"

As Kores 'tale' goes on there is a low chanting from among some of the more..rustic..patrons a low breathy exhalation of " Gulro...Gulro..." but they seem quite charmed by his words...until his last sentence...at that the mood turns almost palpably icy.

" Seems we're all looking at him.", Padraig growls.  His words draw a few chuckles and there is a slight ebbing of tension but those companions of a more martial bent can see it is at a tipping point.

The woman starts as if whipped, " Of course, Most Blessed Hearth Father. No need to hurt old Aoife...no need for...fire...."

With trembling hands the woman pushes across to him a number of bundles wrapped in wool.

There are three different herbal balms and poultices, four of each type, and Colm recognises them almost immediately.

" Normally they would be 50 florins...but for an esteemed Hearth Father...perhaps 25 florins each?"

OOC:

Healing Balm: This will restore 2 Health Points to the recipient. A person may only receive benefit from one use of healing balm per day (it is useful in bringing a person back from the brink of death and also as an aid to natural healing – the 2 Health Points gained are in addition to any gained by recuperation. If a healing balm is applied for two consecutive days, the character can be considered to have entered recuperation even if the four day
period normally needed for that process to begin has elapsed.

Balm against disease: This remedy aids in the recovery of disease. If a person has failed the Strength saving throw needed to avoid contracting a disease that day (or which is needed to recover from the disease) he will gain a second saving throw by drinking this tea.

Balm against madness: In each week that this remedy is taken every day, a person suffering from madness has a 1 in 20 chance of recovery. In the case of intermediate madness, the cure may not become apparent until a triggering event occurs.
This message was last edited by the GM at 20:46, Fri 24 June 2016.

With absolutely no regard for the people he's disturbed, Kores picks up on that word...

"So what is ...Gulro?"

Seeing how the events unfold, Dann moves near Kores and stand nearby the scholar. He does not speak, but makes his presence ostensible so that people think about it twice before resorting to violence.

Tobias gives a derisive snort. "Where was the swashbuckling? The man asked for derring-do!".

He takes his pipe from his mouth, and says: "I once shot an apple off a man's head with my crossbow. From fifty paces, no less, though sadly it was the force of the bolt hitting his temple that threw the apple off. I still say if we'd gone for a marrow he'd have been alive to this day, which is pretty impressive given how much we'd been drinking, but that didn't seem to appease his family..."

None answer him, but something in Kores memory tells him he has heard the name before...



Dann stepping forward makes some of the older men back down and others look a little wary as they regard the Clansmans stance and broad shoulders....those younger and perhaps less...reflective...rise to challenge him...



A loud guffaw greets Tobias' quick tale and the tension seems to break, though some still give Kores the stink-eye.

Dann laughs as well at the tell of Tobias, and after reaching out for his ale and drinking a little, starts to sing a clan song that he reckon will be known by the majority of the attendance.

"Have no fear Aoife.  Brigantia forgives all in the bleesed heat of the sacred flame...
I will buy some healing balms from you and will return shortly with the silver."

OOC - That's 25 florins for ONE dose!?!  Even at half price that's expensive.  I'll take three healing balms for 75 florins.

"Aoife, I am Colm.  I think that we can do some more business.  I'd like you to tell me the recipe for these balms and show me how to brew them.  In exchange I will enhance your reputation by my endorsements.  Think of this as a chance for redemption."

In reply to Colm Cernach (msg # 170):
This message was last edited by the GM at 03:43, Wed 29 June 2016.

Trivel just stares impassively. To think that these people need a ruler for defence...
Inconceivable!
He likes their ways, they're mostly peaceful compared to his folks. But what the scholar said was just too much.

He didn't pay much attention to the commotion, though he did smile at the tale. Missing an apple from a mere 50 paces? Oh, a crossbow...that explains it all! Who uses a crossbow?

The man shakes his head and looks at his glass, which has mysteriously become empty. He, on the other hand, has become light-headed.
"I'll go to bed early", he announces.
After all, a man needs his strength.

Kores frowns and heads off to his room.  He doesn't really care for all this noise...

Trivel and Kores made their way to their rooms and got some much needed rest.

Dann, Tobias and the majority of the crowd drank and sang and told tall tales until well into the evening.

Colm was nowhere to be seen.


..........

Next Morning.

Blood pudding, butter and black bread for breakfast and the rest of the day is yours....though kores might be anxious to get you heading off immediately.

Tobias breakfasts heartily, cheerily tucking into the fare. He exchanges morning pleasantries, then lowers his voice. "It seems we aren't the only people to have found whisky in the river. Clan Gar are keen to learn who's responsible. Might be a chance for money - or a quick death." He glances across at Dann. "They might be better known to you than I."

Dann nods at Tobias. "As good as any way to die. Plus we might get to understand what these so called 'Good Folk' really are..."

In reply to Dann of Clan Valin (msg # 176):

Adair joined them at the table and pulled out a large satchel which clinked as he placed it down, " I thankyou for your services gentlemen. I think 15 florins each is fair, for two days work and seeing off those lads without any bloodshed."

He doled the monies out to each of them in turn.

" I'll be here for the week and then head back if you'd like to join me again.....off to do business. You lot keep well."

He headed out the door.

OOC: Each of you gain 15 florins.

In reply to GM (msg # 177):





"Let us continue our enquiries.  There must be people who could suggest where we can go to find the lost city of Mimir…"

Kores is barely interested in the silver, but then he thinks what the locals would do for this.  They will need provisions...
This message was last edited by the GM at 01:45, Mon 04 July 2016.

In reply to Kores Varias (msg # 178):

Tobias frowns, visibly perplexed. "Lost City...? I thought we were caravan guards...?"

In reply to Tobias Garrick (msg # 179):

"It was convenient to do so until we got here.  Now we need to find out where the ancient dead people died.  Much knowledge and secrets of ancient times to be discovered.

It would be nice if there was a resident archaeologist around.  Or a tomb robber."
This message was last edited by the GM at 11:23, Mon 04 July 2016.

"There are other things at stake as well." adds Dann enigmatically. "We had dealings with beings... which are not meant to dwell among us. We want to be better prepared next time."

In reply to Dann of Clan Valin (msg # 181):

"With lives extending over centuries, they hunger for a little more than warm flesh.  I don't know whether they are reliving centuries old memories, but they crave knowledge that has been lost to men and gods."
This message was last edited by the GM at 21:16, Mon 04 July 2016.

Tobias eyes, Kores and Dann carefully, before his face splits into a broad grin. "You had me at grave robber." He chuckles. "I'm no archae-whatever it is, but if you need a shovel and a pick and a willingness to delve... then, aye, I'm all for it."

In reply to Tobias Garrick (msg # 183):

"Yes...  but sometimes you don't need to do any digging.  Running away perhaps..."
This message was last edited by the GM at 21:16, Mon 04 July 2016.

Colm re-appears just in time to grab the last of the breakfast.

"I can offer some knowledge of the ancient times.  The Fomorians were a dark part of our history which most would rather forget, and most consider as just legends.  I will not allow anyone to desecrate any ancient Gliss druidic sites though, and will tell you which is which." 

Padraig came out from the back and glanced at them, " Did you say Mimir?"

In reply to GM (msg # 186):

"...Mimir."

Tobias nods, as if giving the matter serious thought. "I think I can manage that."

"That name is familar to me....  Mimir was a god of the ancients but is all but forgotten now...  whether he was one of the fallen gods or indeed one of the deities the Fomorians once...still...worshipped I cannot recall."

In reply to Colm Cernach (msg # 189):

Padraig nodded, " Well, I don't know naught about that but theres a wee settlement on the forest road....its called something similar...I thought it was Murmurs Well...but it could be the same. Most of the Reav....North Folk..who come into town stop there on their way through..."

In reply to GM (msg # 190):

Kores's eyes light up.

"Then that is where we shall go!  There should be some clues there...  to the lost city."
This message was last edited by the GM at 21:46, Fri 08 July 2016.

"Probably a good pick." agrees Dann, when hearing reavers mentioned.

In reply to Dann of Clan Valin (msg # 192):

Padraig nodded, " Well then. Easy enough. Take the ford across the Shadowspin then follow the Trade Road north through Siren Woods."

" Mind you take care though! These north folk been using that road since before there was a village here and they know not to leave the path.  There are old things under the beech boughs and their not to be messed with by mortal men."

" Stay on the road and you'll get there in a day or so.  Maybe a half-day if your quick."

In reply to GM (msg # 193):

Kores explains to the others that he can obtain food to keep everyone going.  He will demonstrate by mumbling arcane and producing very basic foodstuff from his clothing.  He'll pass this out so that the others know what to expect.

He'll feed everyone just before midnight.

Trivel should be fast asleep by then, unless someone wakes him up.

Padraig looked astounded.

" Aye! I've seen like at the Samhain festival, young fella kept pulling ferrets out of his kilt!"

He gathered up a small piece of bread from the table, " Tastes shite though....you been hiding it up yer barse?"

In reply to GM (msg # 196):

"I just wanted to let you know, if you don't mind the taste, theres a lot to go around..."

"...well, maybe you should bring more provisions."

"I've lived off worse." Tobias shrugs."But it wouldn't hurt to have some fresh supplies."

In reply to Tobias Garrick (msg # 198):

"Good day. Mind if I join your table?"
This message was last edited by the GM at 09:33, Tue 12 July 2016.

Colm scoffed at the sorcerer displaying his talents in public.  That kind of behaviour could get him chased up a treee and set fire to!  Colm is an expert in setting fire to people...

"I am a Hearthfather of Brigantia, and can channel many blessings.  I can converse with the trees and hedgerows, produce fresh and sweet fruit, heal the injured, warm the hearts of the cold, more than beyong the kin of most men.  We will need more than stout hearts and hard steel if we are to survive an expedition to the Lost City of Mimir."

In reply to Colm Cernach (msg # 200):

"Well..  the two of you can focus on catching fresh food."

Looks at Toirneach.

"Nobody has objected."


Nothing flashy.  He's just pulling a lot of food out of the folds of his clothing, its not like he shadowbolted a table or anything to draw peoples attention.
This message was last edited by the player at 13:10, Tue 12 July 2016.

"Hello." says Dann to the newcomer, half surprised and half curious. "And why this table in particular?"

In reply to Dann of Clan Valin (msg # 202):

"I just arrived in town and you guys look like a group I would love to join."


OOC: I'm pleased to be here;)
This message was last edited by the GM at 02:11, Wed 13 July 2016.

In reply to Toirneach Lann (msg # 203):

"...Ah...  ...and do you have any aversion to taking from the dead?  You'll find they cling to our world and material things relentlessly, more so than the living..."
This message was last edited by the GM at 20:45, Tue 12 July 2016.

"The more the merrier." Tobias grins through his crooked teeth and lights his pipe. "Though our conversation has just taken an... unexpected turn. For me, at any rate." He glances round the others.



"Remind me - why are we so keen to get this stuff they relentlessly  cling to?"

In reply to Tobias Garrick (msg # 205):

"..One reason is that there is much to discover, great ancient texts, artifacts of power that lay undiscovered for centuries.  Some made by men or supernatural beings, others, gifts from the gods.  Infinite wealth and treasures to those who know of them."

"...That, and also I am indebted to a demon when I asked that he spare one of our former colleagues.  ...My soul may be damned and destined to burn for an eternity in unearthly fires for all existence...  Therein lies what the demon wants, and I will need to retrieve it.  It is my burden alone, but if you fear what lies ahead you can of course, remain amongst the living..."
This message was last edited by the GM at 01:39, Wed 13 July 2016.

OOC: To Danns eyes the man is a clansman, his plaid speaks of Clan Gar but there is something about his manner that suggests he has not spent much time in the lowlands.  His body is lean and well muscled but there are few of the battle scars that line Danns arms...though they seem of a like age.

In reply to Kores Varias (msg # 206):

Tobias raises his eyebrows at Kores words, though he does not seem overly surprised. Kores is clearly a dabbler in some forbidden art, and it seems reasonable to assume that anyone who dabbles in forbidden arts is probably in hock with some sort of demon. He blows out a cloud of smoke, then says thoughtfully: "Infinite wealth? Well, with that and the grave robbing, I'd be a fool to miss out!"

In reply to Kores Varias (msg # 206):

"I would love to go on this quest with you. I may not be a great warrior but I am will get to help.
Besides, the promise of treasure seems a good lure.

By the way, anyone knows where I can get a set of plate? Or for that matter, some magical weapons"
This message was last edited by the player at 10:23, Wed 13 July 2016.

In reply to Toirneach Lann (msg # 209):

"Well then.  You are all free to join me.  The alternative is to guard the caravans back.

"I'm ready to set off.  We still have a few more hours of daylight.  Perhaps if you would like to buy things for the trip...  I don't think this village would have the equipment you need but you can ask around."



OOC: Kores will look for some lantern oil.  I think I can manage another 4 flasks but correct me if I'm wrong.  That chest with the flasks inside...  I got a vague recollection they might be healing potions?

Guess we'll find out....  when we need to....
This message was last edited by the GM at 13:11, Wed 13 July 2016.

In reply to Kores Varias (msg # 210):

"I am free to depart anytime. I'll take a few moments to visit the armourer nearby."



OOC: Toirneach looks and asks around the area for an armoursmith.
This message was last edited by the GM at 22:24, Wed 13 July 2016.

Observing the exchange between Kores and Tobias, Dann cannot help but say, as if to himself: "Knowledge is power... but it can also be dangerous."

Looking again at the merry newcomer, so eager to join the group and leave the place, he asks: "So you are a clansman, aren't you? From clan Gar? How is the clan doing these days?"

17:57, Today: Colm Cernach rolled 16 using 1d20 (Int:16).
"If we can find the Lost Legion of Bronze Chests, they should have plenty of enchanted weapons, deadmen, and gold.  Everyone will be happy.  I do want to remind everyone that NO ONE will be pillaging any Gliss graves... Unless they want to become a permanent resident in it." states Colm without humour and in all seriousness.

OOC: Kores easily finds whatever general goods he needs in Rosmuilleann at normal prices.
This message was last edited by the GM at 23:43, Wed 13 July 2016.

OOC: There are no dedicated armourers in Rosmuilleann, most of the Reavers don't wear armour and care for their own weapons. There is a blacksmith who cares for the townguards arms who has a little skill at repairing maille.

Bear in mind Warlocks now are only trained in maille ( chainmail in the original books), 'mail and plate', like Brenar wears would only be available in Glissom City and would give -ves in Secondary Stats for your PC. :)

In reply to GM (msg # 215):

OOC: I'm ready to depart anytime;)
This message was last edited by the GM at 00:05, Fri 15 July 2016.

In reply to Toirneach Lann (msg # 216):

A cool wind blows, Kores stands alone.  His followers, fools that they are follow without regard for their own lives, foolishly believing his unsubstantiated claims of lost treasures and ancient civilizations.  Truly this collection of village idiots would have made a better living guarding caravans and pushing fertlizer, living a sycophantic life serving nobles and merchants rather than trying to grasp their destiny.







Death stands by, grinning.  No matter what happens, he stands to gain following the path of fools.....
This message was last edited by the player at 07:27, Fri 15 July 2016.

In reply to Kores Varias (msg # 217):

The next day, the companions ready themselves and some head off to wake Trivel up, supplies were purchased in the previous afternoon and Kores is ready to depart at daybreak...

Leaving the Silver Stag behind and with the mule in tow they cross the ford and soon leave the Shadowspin and Rosmuilleann behind as they enter the ancient beech trees.

The path is narrow but obviously sees some use from the Borderers who traverse it on their way to trade and then back home again. The woods are dark and close and all the companions recall the warnings not to leave the path....
This message was last edited by the GM at 21:23, Sun 17 July 2016.

A few miles along the trade road Tobias and trivel spot a tall white stone tower about a half mile off to the right of the path.

In reply to Colm Cernach (msg # 213):

The answer came with a little bluster, " Yes, I am.  I am of Clan Gar. We are the largest and most powerful of all the Clans!"
 "We are led by Conn Mac Gar! ' King Conn'the people call him."
 "We recently got our hands on a castle! But I have no idea if it is   a reinforced broch or a ruin or something., he finished, a little weakly.
This message was last edited by the GM at 01:55, Mon 18 July 2016.

Dann grits his teeth and tighten his fist but, hearing the last part of the answer, curiosity gets the better of him. "You don't know? Why wouldn't you know? And why would you leave such a great clan, as you say, just to follow unknown adventurers on a whim?" he asks, maybe a little too aggressively.

Colm will rise before dawn to perform the Fire Ritual at Sunrise. 
Colm will also cast Stargaze.  The Hearthfather is protected from the chill of the north, the blaze of a furnace, thin mountain top air, does not thirst or hunger, and can push his body beyong normal human endurance,

In reply to Colm Cernach (msg # 222):

Kores walks his mule.  Plenty of time to load it up with books and scrolls and ancient artifacts.

Maybe centuries on these structures might have some trace of the past that might be worth visiting.  Until then, Kores is disinterested.

In reply to Kores Varias (msg # 223):

The companions disregarded the structure and continued on the forest road, after several miles there was a sudden whistling sound and a volley of darts whizzed over the companions heads from somewhere in the forest to their right...

Colm will ready his shield and crouch behind a tree for extra protection.

In reply to Colm Cernach (msg # 225):

OOC: Just to make sure, cos there are no trees on the path...Colm wants to leave the road?

Oh I miss-spoke.

Colm will ready his shield and crouch donw behind it, remaining on the path.

"You were asking about the forest people Toirneach.  We are about to meet them!"

In reply to Colm Cernach (msg # 227):

Kores takes cover behind Colm.

Come to think of it, lets crouch down, and hide behind my mule...
This message was last edited by the player at 06:23, Wed 20 July 2016.

In reply to GM (msg # 224):

Toirneach crouches behind his shield.

Dann raises his shield and bows behind it as well. He will venture an eye from time to time to check where do the darts come from.

In reply to Dann of Clan Valin (msg # 230):


Kores casts *MANTLET* and then stands up.

Didn't have my spell book in the office.

 OOC:  Is it invisible or is there some visible energy field?  I think its invisible according to the rules, just being a zone.  Kores will then stand up whilst holding his mule tightly.

If we can figure out where these missles are coming from, Kores might try an ILLUSION of a FIRESTORM to make them jump out of cover.  Might I say, don't want to waste our BANQUET binging....
This message was last edited by the GM at 23:23, Wed 20 July 2016.

Having no shield to crouch behind, Tobias drops into a crouch, unslinging his crossbow, but not raising it... yet. His eyes scan the woods."They fired clean over our heads. A warning?"

"Aye a warning.  Keep on the path and keep moving...  If the want to talk, they'll talk"

In reply to Colm Cernach (msg # 233):

OOC: Well, lets start heading away, and Kores will cancel his spell after 5 rounds.  He'll lead the way, those who want to can stay and cower behind their shields/each other....
This message was last edited by the GM at 10:55, Thu 21 July 2016.

In reply to Colm Cernach (msg # 233):

Lann starts moving at half crouch position, his shield still in front of his body.
This message was last edited by the GM at 21:45, Thu 21 July 2016.

Dann gets back on his feet, his shield still protecting him. While he follows Kores, he will watch the woods to check if there is any movement.

Tobias rises, not reslinging his crossbow, but not raising it in threat either. He treads carefully along, watching the woods warily.

With no further sign from the attackers except some distant laughter and bird calls the companions moved on.

The day dragged on and it was late afternoon before they saw any change in the scenery.

The road entered a green dell,its grassy sward dotted with coloured flowers. Birds sing from the trees and a feeling of intense peace settles over you. In the centre of the dell you see a pool some distance off the road. A bower of honeysuckle and climbing roses separates it from you. Cavorting in the pool is a group of scantily clad women and men, all of them beautiful and all in the prime of health. They call out merrily to you and point to a tree at the centre of the pool. It bears a
number of golden apples along its boughs. They throw you the golden apples and invite you to come and join them.

In reply to GM (msg # 238):

Kores is curious.  He will pick up an apple and inspect it, and strongly inclined to taste it.

Colm looks at the bower of honeysuckle and roses but does not leave the path yet.
OOC - How far away is this bower from the path please.  Do I need to be touching the bower to use Forest Rumours?

"Do not not make any aggressive moves. Don't draw any weapons.
These are probably the fay folk that the clansmen spoke of."

Tobias watches Kores uneasily. "Don't get distracted. These folks are between us and the, er, digging you're so keen on." He looks to Colm. "You seem to be the expert on these matters, but I'm for staying firmly on the road."

In reply to Tobias Garrick (msg # 241):

Kores smiles.

"A rather pointless existence, enjoying life for the moment, short sighted and living only for the moment, fornicating freely without any aims or ambition...  What do they do if the apples stop growing?  Perhaps man was cast out of heaven so that he would grow up, as would any parent...."

*Bites apple*
This message was last edited by the GM at 19:54, Fri 22 July 2016.

In reply to GM (msg # 238):
Slinging his shield, Lann picks up and apple and cleans it on his tunic before using his dagger to cut it into two.

OOC: No need to be touching the bower. Its about 5m away.

Kores took a bite of the apple and found it to be sweet and juicy.

The apple is firm and juicy looking.

In reply to GM (msg # 246):

"Very good.  I suggest we be on our way before any of you are inclined to waste your lives in idleness and useless pastimes.  Of course you are free to leave at any time."

Kores is inclined to leave, unless anyone wishes to do anything...
This message was last edited by the GM at 22:23, Fri 22 July 2016.

Colm observed the strange forest people with caution.

"I have heard tell of folk cavorting and debauching in such pools, and they were never heard of again.  One poor soul returned to his village to find that no one knew him, and all his friends and relatives where gone.  He swore that he had left the village just that morning, but he was just dismissed as a mad man.  Later, and elderly woman in her 80th winter claimed to have remembered the man leave the village, when she was just a girl. Were both mad, or were both telling the truth?"

Colm will move along the path.

In reply to Colm Cernach (msg # 248):

Tobias listens carefully, then nods. "On, then."
He joins the others making their way ahead.

In reply to GM (msg # 246):

Lann takes a bite of the Apple while continuing along with the rest of the party.

In reply to Toirneach Lann (msg # 250):

As the companions move away the frolicking youths seem to forget their presence almost immediately and go back to their play.

After a short rest a little way along the road the companions continue and as evening begins to draw near they see a low burial mound within the trees and shrubs a little way off the road to the left.

In reply to GM (msg # 251):

Kores gets excited, quickening his pace and loosely pulling at his mules reins, he heads in to see whether this burial mound has any potential academic value.  How old does it appear to be?

Colm will look for the oldest tree, nearest to the burial mound, and will carefully make his way towards it.
17:01, Today: Colm Cernach rolled 9 using 2d10.  PER 7 - find old tree.

"Allow me to commune with nature.  I may be able to discover more about this place."

Colm will them approah the tree and attempt to commune with it.  Cast Forest Rumours, Earth 3MP

In reply to Colm Cernach (msg # 253):

"Do what you have to do!  Best if you go behind it so we can't smell you!"
This message was last edited by the GM at 20:06, Mon 25 July 2016.

Kores left the road and moved into the trees to inspect the burial mound, Colm placed his palm upon an ancient beech tree and intoned words under his breath.

Laughter...like that of a demented child...rang out from somewhere deep in the green.

In reply to GM (msg # 251):

Lann walks towards the mound, taking care to look for traps or uneven ground as he prepares to inspect the mound visually.

In reply to Toirneach Lann (msg # 256):

Both Kores and Toirneach note that the mound is very old, it is covered in a thick layer of moss, grass and crowberries.

In reply to GM (msg # 257):

Kores walks around the mound.  With a massive lost city to be found, he's not inclined to do some petty grave robbing.  This seems too recent and probably belongs to some ancient village chief.  Kores loses interest and inclined to head off.

In reply to GM (msg # 257):

Ls not looks around to take a quick glance to see if there is a grave marker to indicate the identity of the dead.

The barrow is unmarked.

Colm removes himslef from the beach tree, addressing the others.

"This is an Eldar barrow.  We should leave well alone.  I suggest we move along the path a discrete distance and look for a place to camp overnight, near to the path.  The Elves guard this barrow, perhaps those fellows who shot dart at us,  and they would treat any robbers severely."

In reply to Colm Cernach (msg # 261):

Hearing that, Lann salutes the grave of the ancient hero and marches off, hoping that the spirit of the long dead hero will bless the party.

In reply to Colm Cernach (msg # 261):

Tobias shrugs, a mix of intrigued, and out of his depth with all this ancient lore. He makes to light his pipe, glances nervously at the barrow, and thinks better of it. "Well, on we go then."

In reply to Tobias Garrick (msg # 263):

The companions move on and are looking for places to make camp when ahead they see the snow­covered, purple Mountains of Brack rising up in the dim light through the trees. .

They note ahead a settlement of wattle ­and ­thatch houses straddling the forest road.

 As they draw closer,  a village ­size settlement with a large Moot Hall set next to a well at its centre.  A plume of smoke is coming from the chimney of the Moot Hall.

"Let us find shelter in the village, but we should be discrete about or business."

Glares at Kores, "That means no Supernatural chat from you!"

In reply to Colm Cernach (msg # 265):

"No references to old gods and lost cities?"

In reply to Kores Varias (msg # 266):

As the two talk they hear a loud laugh from the moothall and a change in the breeze sends the scent of roasting venison across the clearing...

Kores summons sustenance by the side of the road and starts to eat.  Tosses some undesirable, misshapened fruit shaped like a 'thingy' at Colm.

"Well then, lead the way, formerly known as Finan."


Kores will feed his mule whilst the others can feast on venison.

OOC: Casts BANQUET
This message was last edited by the GM at 22:14, Tue 02 Aug 2016.

Colm glares at Kores and tosses the tasteless mana aside.

"Weapons away, lets be nice and friendly."

Colm heads for the Moot Hall.

In reply to Colm Cernach (msg # 269):

Lann follows the rest and walks towards the moot hall, weapons sheathed and shield slung on the back.

Tobias likewise slings his weapons, and follows Colm. "The venison certainly smells good. Let's hope it doesn't come with too high a price, eh?"

In reply to Tobias Garrick (msg # 271):

Within the hall torches burn brightly and you are suprised to find no watch upon the door.  Within are low trestles about which stand people who seem almost of a kind, at least in part, with the youths you saw in the glade...though these folk show the scars of work and the lines of age upon their faces.

At the far end of the hall are a group of Reavers seated upon bales of wool and piles of salted beef.

An elderly man, dressed like the others in a pale woolen shift, points at you as you enter, " A blessed eve!  More road-weary souls come to our table."

" Eat! Drink!"

In reply to GM (msg # 272):

*Munches on strangely shaped fruit*
*Chews on twisted burnt bread*
*Pats the Mule*

"...A feast to myself..."

Colm raises his hand in peace, smiling he steps towards the old man.
"Peace be within these walls, and the Blessings of Brigantia be upon you.
We are weary travellers looking for shelter and hospitality.  We can offer you silver, or something else maybe?"

Colm nods to the reavers at the back in respect.

Gale sat at one of the corners of the hall, where you put the less important servant the vagabonds and traveling entertainers like himself. He had a nice picking of leftovers that were lukewarm and filled his belly which he was content with.

Soon, once the main meal would slow down they would call on him to preform... or maybe they will forgot, it happened a couple of times before. In any case he spent the evening watching the scene trying to untangle the delicate invisible web of human interaction. It was a knack he had since he was a small child, he used it more as mean to pass the time than anything else.

....

The reavers nod back to him and the elderly man with the long grey hair chuckles,
" Blessings of wisdom from Mimir in return. We require nothing, Friends!  You will have both shelter and hospitality here in Mimirs Well."

Colm greets the old man warmly, then finds a seat with his companions.  Whipering to his friends;
"Do you recognise our Reaver friends over there?"  BTW, how many Reavers are there?

OOC: 12. All are new faces to you.

An owl hoots in a nearby tree and Kores is alone with his mule....

Brenar, never one to look a gift horse in the mouth, came forward and took a large slice of venison and some cheese from the table, nodding to their host.

Trivel followed Brenars lead and helped himself to a wooden cup of small beer as well.

In reply to Trivel (msg # 282):

Kores finishes what he can and gives the rest to the mule.  He ties it somewhere so that it can finish off the remaining food and he proceeds to see what the lads are up to.

Dann shrugged at Colms question, " They are not known to me...but it has been a long time since I walked the lands of the Mountain Clans."

" Perhaps Toirneach has more recent memories?"

The villagers greeted Kores in like fashion as he entered.

In reply to GM (msg # 285):

Kores is stuffed with all the twisted food.  He manages a faint smile, and does his usual drink holding....  He just likes to hold it.

The village elder regarded the new arrival with a quizzical eye and began to approach the companions.

" Well met, not traders I see.  And some from far away...quite far indeed!  Welcome.  How can we be of assistance?"

Dann eats, but not much as all his instincts tell him that something might not be as it seems in all this setup. He looks with interest at Colm/Finan, waiting for his answer to the village elder.

Colm sweeps in, grabs some venison and ale, and introduces Kores.
"My companion is a student of history.  He is currently researching the journeys of the Bronze Chests in this area, many centuries ago.  His work is mainly academic, but we do get out and about sometimes."

In reply to Colm Cernach (msg # 289):

Kores briefly gives Colm a dark expression.  He then starts to talk scholarly…

"Ah yes, think of the metallurgical accomplishments over the years, bronze being a very universal form of metal smithing that was common throughout the lands.  There were deposits all around and the men that worked it became commonplace.  It was not until the Selentine visitations that lead to major logistical developments allowing the transport of ores and other materials.  You can see the history of bronze chests can be quite fascinating!"
This message was last edited by the GM at 02:57, Tue 09 Aug 2016.

The elder nodded to Colm then smiled gently at Kores words, " Yes...a most intriguing study of the history of vessels and containers I note. But perhaps it is more likely that your companion was referring to the Selentine legions that once invaded these lands and indeed the Lost Legion who marched through here accompanied by the fabled sage Fabian many generations ago."

" If it is smith work that interests you however we have a smithy here in the village and I believe that Jarms studies into variant alloys and the rendering of layered metals and his forays into plating unlike metals upon like metals using a form of differential temperature and mineralisation in disparate containers of water and other dissolutions."

He turned back to Colm with a grin, and a knowing glance at the necklace that hung at his throat, he gestured up towards the roof and Colm took in that what he had originally thought to be a massive support timber was indeed a thin walled hollow chamber strung with silver wires...with scalloped wooden flutes about it so that when the shutters in the roof were opened the wind would rush across the strings and the sounding board.

" How are you this day, Hearth-Brother?"

In reply to GM (msg # 291):

"Interesting, but beyond metal working my interest is also the history, origins and ultimate destinations of these vessels.  Historically, the spread of civilization came with these and other items of archaeological value."

"The Selentium legions were an army of engineers.  In their thirst for conquest they built bridges, roads, canals and irrigation systems.  Their military success can be partially attributed to their superior logistics and technologies, do not forget that superior sanitation preserves their armies from disease."

"Think of the vast empire they built, why, if for any reason they would halt expansion.  Or even more interesting, what they wanted to keep out of the Empire...  Sometimes they built walls not to keep out barbarians but other unspeakable things..."
This message was last edited by the GM at 05:37, Tue 09 Aug 2016.